Seaside Magazine November 2025 Issue

This Issue

Sue Hodgson

Lately, I’ve been reminded of just how human we all are: messy, complicated, and doing our best to make sense of whatever life throws our way. I’ve been going through something deeply personal, and it’s brought with it a kind of loss that’s hard to put into words. It’s left me feeling sad and a little unsteady, but also reflective about what it really means to keep moving forward.

The truth is, none of us gets through life without making mistakes or facing moments we wish had gone differently. We all carry stories of love, loss, and lessons learned. What I’m realizing, though, is that being human isn’t about getting everything right –it’s about showing up, learning as we go, and forgiving ourselves when we fall short. Some days, the best we can do is just put one foot in front of the other. And that’s okay. Each small step still counts – it’s still movement toward healing, understanding and hope.

If you’re facing something hard right now, please know you’re not alone. Life has a funny way of surprising us; just when we think the light has faded, it finds a way to shine through again. We may stumble, but we keep going. That’s what makes us human.

And as Remembrance Day approaches, I’m reminded to pause and honour those who have given so much, carrying forward their courage and sacrifice in the way we live our own lives – with kindness, resilience and a commitment to what truly matters.

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

AMBER WAHL windgypsyphotography@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.

Clothing & accessories provided and styled by Ecotopia Naturals. PHOTO JANIS JEAN

ALICE BACON

Page 8

Cooking delicious and beautiful food to share with friends and family is a universal enjoyment. Having the opportunity to share ideas as well as meals is a privilege, and working with a talented food photographer is a real treat for a foodie like me!

BRITTANY BAZIN

Page 20

Curious about this year’s holiday décor trends for your home? I’ve uncovered creative ways to blend nostalgia with modern style, sharing textures, colours and thoughtful details.

Find tips to craft warm spaces that make your home both festive and uniquely reflective of your personal style.

JACKIE LAPLANTE

Page 28

I love novels from our Maritime provinces. They set me on a foreign coast amidst old communities whose history differs from our West Coast’s past.

The stories are often dark, reflective of the harsher climate, and the undercurrent of wry humour is always engaging.

KYLE SHICK

Page 17

I've always had an appreciation of those who are "in fashion" because of the individuality it expresses. Effortless as they make an image seem, the process of capturing the image resulting from a moment in time is what, to me, makes the story behind the image so captivating.

Other Contributors: Alice Bacon, Jo Barnes, Brittany Bazin, Susan Beiderwieden, June Murray Dagnall, Jamila Douhaibi, Connie Dunwoody, Tabatha Golat, Janice Henshaw, Keith Hickie, Jesse Holth, Richard Hope, Linda Hunter, Dana Hutchings, Jackie LaPlante, Katie Musicco, Jacqueline Nicoll, Cassidy Nunn, Jessica O'Brien Cameron, Joan Saunders, Marita Schauch, Kyle Shick, Stephanie Staples, Shelley Tice, Chace Whitson

GNOCCHI WITH BACON, SUNDRIED TOMATOES, ASPARAGUS AND PARMESAN

2 cups potato gnocchi

4 tbsp butter

3 cloves garlic, finely minced

4 strips crispy bacon, chopped

1 jar sundried tomatoes in oil, finely minced

asparagus, trimmed and blanched fresh basil leaves

parmesan

salt and pepper to taste

TENDERLOIN WITH TROPICAL FRUIT SALSA

1 lb pork tenderloin

cooking oil (your choice)

fresh pineapple

fresh mango

1 small red pepper

1 small yellow pepper

red onion

juice of one lime (or more to taste)

1 jalapeño pepper, seeds removed

fresh cilantro or parsley

salt and pepper

The Heart of the Memory

WORDS CONNIE DUNWOODY, BROADMEAD CARE

November 1 is All Saints Day, when we remember loved ones who went before us. November 11 invites us to pay homage and remember with deep gratitude the brave men and women who defended Canada and freedom on our behalf. It has me musing about remembering, about memories. They’re funny things. For example, I have a friend who participated in an hours-long duathlon with me in 2018 – and she has

absolutely no recollection of doing so. Even when I showed her pictures of us running side by side, she said with conviction: “that has to be a different race.” (It wasn’t.)

I have another friend who is absolutely convinced we all joined her on a bike ride to Sooke Potholes some time ago. (We didn’t.)

I have my own memories of events or circumstances, in which, I’m afraid to say, I’m

Dr. Matthew Foulkes and his team are committed to providing

usually painted in the best colours possible (do we all do that?).

We all know someone whose memory of something is different than ours. We can – and do – debate these misaligned rememberings, trying to make sense of our own recollections and trying to understand where the gap is. For some who live with various forms of dementia, memory might not come easily. Dementia can blur the past and present, sometimes warping the facts. But ... what if it doesn’t really matter if the memory is correct? What if the point of the memory is, actually, connection? To people, to emotion, to our past: who we were and what we experienced in that time.

"good," but every one was valid. Then, when he couldn’t, it was my turn to carry those stories. I’d ask him to share things about his past with me, and together we’d remember, sparking conversation and joy. My family and I still tell them: “Remember when Dad ...” We honour the person he was by speaking his name, recalling his laughter and his influence on our lives. We keep his spirit alive in us.

• Examinations & Hygiene

• Crowns & Bridges

• Complete & Partial Dentures

• Restorations

• Root Canal Therapy

• Extractions

• Clear Aligner Braces

Hear me out. My dad lived with Alzheimer’s and Lewy Body dementia. About some things, his memory was sharp, intact, and he relived youthyoung adult-parent-professorpreacher moments accurately, as far as I could tell. About other things, he was dreadfully wrong, but he still shared them, over and over. (I didn’t correct him.)

I think it was a process of connection. With us, his children, but perhaps also to someone he was familiar with –his earlier self – solid, comforting ground in his shape-shifting brain. Maybe it was the only way he could stay connected to who he was, and therefore "is." Connection happened as the story was told and I simply listened, with my whole heart. Not every memory he had was

On Remembrance Day, we do something similar for Canada’s veterans: those who live in Broadmead Care Homes, those in our neighbourhoods, and those in our hearts. We remember them for battles fought, and for who they were: sons and daughters, neighbours and friends, people who loved and were loved. In this way, remembering becomes an act of community. There is connection across generations, geography and time.

This Remembrance Day, as we honour the people who served our country, let us also hold close those in our own lives who struggle with memory. We can be keepers of their stories, their dignity, and their love. Remembering is not about perfect recall. It is about presence. It is about choosing to see the whole person, even when memory is fragile. Even more, it’s about connection. It is about whispering to them, and to ourselves, “Lest we forget,” and carrying the heart of the memory into the future.

Connie Dunwoody is Communications Coordinator for Broadmead Care. She believes in the joy of connection.

MORE THAN ICE CREAM ...

Scoop and Waffle is Sidney’s Newest Brunch Spot!

That’s right! Scoop and Waffle isn’t just about a cool treat: we are also a Belgian Waffle shop! Our made-to-order Belgian Waffles are crispy on the outside and fluffy on the inside. Paired with our Lavazza Italian coffee, organic teas or hot chocolate, they are brunch magic! We offer indoor dining, an outdoor patio in the spring and summer, or you can take your brunch to go.

At Scoop and Waffle, we serve fun comfort food that makes you smile year-round, rain or shine! For the fall and winter, we offer an expanded Belgian Waffle menu including: our original golden waffle; a savoury cheddar cheese waffle; seasonal waffles (apple cinnamon and pumpkin spice for the fall); and a certified gluten-free golden waffle. Our Belgian Waffles are delicious on their own, but we recommend adding toppings of your choice. We offer over a dozen sweet and savoury toppings that take your Waffle Brunch to the next level! You can be as creative as you like with your topping choices!

For our fall and winter brunch menu, we also offer a Waffle Sandwich with egg and bacon, and a cup of beef chili with our mini savoury cheddar cheese waffle (our Beef Chili is also a waffle topping option)!

At Scoop and Waffle, our warm Belgian Waffles hit the spot even on the coldest or rainiest of Sidney days. And around here, brunch is an all-day, any-day mood!

We are a family-run business that opened this past spring in beautiful Sidney. You can find us near the intersection of Fourth Street and Beacon Avenue. On Wednesdays, seniors aged 65 and up enjoy a 15% discount off their entire order! We look forward to welcoming you soon for a warm, yummy brunch.

Open 6 Days a Week (closed Mondays)

778.351.5006 • 106 - 2423 Beacon Ave, Sidney

www.scoopandwaffle.ca

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Simon Rasmussen: Out of This World & Onto the Screen

Suddenly, on the border of the neutral zone, a Klingon ship appears on the viewing screen of the bridge of the Enterprise. “Captain, they’re powering up their weapons.”

For most of us, the image is clear in our minds, right down to the red alert sirens going off in that iconic starship. It is Star Trek, a wildly popular television show that entertained generations. For one local filmmaker and Star Trek fan, the show not only drew him into its world but ignited a desire to create immersive films himself.

“I have a vivid imagination. As a kid, I really liked Star Trek. I liked its optimistic tone,” shares Simon Rasmussen. “It offered an immersive world; you wanted to be a part of it. While there were danger and risk for people in it, there was a future for them too.”

His latest project, The Ballad of Sloth Shot, might not involve

Klingons, phasers or photon torpedoes, but there’s plenty of tension, time travel and tremendous firepower. The film, a blend of science fiction and western, is described as “a sharp-shooting cowgirl must stop a time-travelling supervillain from destroying her town.”

The project involved extensive planning, creative energy and dedication. “Sloth Shot took five years to do from writing to final edited film,” says Simon. “But the genesis of the idea goes even further back in my life.”

The recent film was born out of other projects and life experiences. After completing an intense course at the Gulf Island Film and Television

WORDS JO BARNES

PHOTO SARAH HARTLEY PHOTOGRAPHER

School on Galiano Island, Simon worked in radio production in Alberta. It was there he honed skills in recording and editing, and the experience gave impetus to further creative ideas. “After attending the film school, I wound up doing radio production work in southern Alberta for two years. I was involved in recording, digital editing and voice recording,” shares Simon. “I created a sci-fi film about a small-town election and a battle to save the earth from a super villain. It’s now in the City of Medicine Hat Archives. I resurrected elements of this earlier film project in creating Sloth Shot.”

Simon’ passion for filmmaking began when he was a teenager. His parents were quick to notice his enthusiasm. “I would use the forest and garage as backdrops. My family was and continues to be incredibly supportive. They bought me my first video camera, and I started creating short stories and sketches on video,” he relates, adding with a smile: “I really got the film bug!”

An opportunity to create a radio play in seventh grade captivated Simon’s interest. “I had been using tape recorders and loved making stories and bringing imaginative worlds to life,” he says. “It was great to go from using a tape recorder to doing it with a video camera!”

These days, with all the advancements in technology, Simon is enjoying the increased access to technical information and new software programs. “Nowadays, it is easier to find techniques on how to do specific things. For instance, there are lots of editing videos on YouTube,” relates Simon. “CineVic has been great in providing equipment and resources.”

Simon is referring to the CineVic Society in Victoria, an artist-run non-profit group

which supports independent filmmakers and media artists and offers a place of community, something that is fundamental to Simon’s love of making film. “I love the sense of community and family that film creates. I really like the nice bond between cast and crew; it is irreplaceable,” he shares. While film is a collaborative form of art, it also brings challenges such as casting talent, sorting out location logistics, resolving technical problems, and dealing with weather conditions. Tenacity is required. “You need patience. Often you need to work something over and over until you get it right. You need to have the willingness to persevere. It’s a level of obsessiveness I guess,” says Simon. “You also need to be willing to fail. Sometimes when things go wrong, it’s a learning opportunity!”

For Simon, at the heart of it is the chance to tell a good story. For him, this involves an interesting and satisfying plot with relatable characters who have impact. “Is it a good story? Are these characters that you care about?” he asks thoughtfully. “Maybe there’s a great antihero who is miserable, but is he compelling? At the end of a good film, you wish it wasn’t over.”

Bringing the process of making The Ballad of Sloth Shot to a close is both satisfying and bittersweet for Simon. “This kind of project is all immersive. Suddenly it is all over and there is a void,” he says.

While he enjoys savouring and celebrating success right now, undoubtedly, imagination calls. Simon will entertain with new stories, share his creativity with the community, and maybe his films will even “boldly go where no one has gone before.”

SEASIDE LIVING

In Fashion

Kyle Shick, Architect AIBC, Partner, Finlayson Bonet Architecture Ltd.

On your bedside table?

An iPad for doomscrolling, reading, drawing or gaming. In the kitchen? Fresh Prep meal kits. It’s a great way to eat a wide array of diverse, delicious locally-sourced made meals from Vancouver. When you want a night out? Fox & Monocle for staying close to home, Pinhalla when venturing downtown. On your playlist? I’m a total audiophile so my playlist could be Afro House, The Blues, Soul, 90s grunge, 50s reggae, 70s punk ... . On Cloudmonster runners, Adidas

On your

In your closet? Bench chinos, Tentree shirts, Lululemon (buy Canadian or British). In your shaving kit? Straight razor. In your bathroom cabinet? Likely some moisturizer I should be using but don't. When adding colour to your outfit? Shoes, socks and ties. When it comes to your goto “uniform?” Tentree Trainer pants and a T-shirt. When you want to smell irresistible? Hugo Boss or Givenchy (or a shower). When you want to throw fashion out the window and be all about comfort?

On your luxury wish list? Recreational property, a waterfront refuge somewhere on the Island. In home décor? Midcentury modern furniture. Aesthetically I was born a few decades too late (or early, based on the revival). On your must-watch list? Anything by Jordan Peele, any movie of Kubrik's, lots of Tarantino. When you don’t care how much it costs? Black T-shirts (architect joke) and ice cream. Good ice cream is worth paying anything for. On your skin? Tattoos. In haircare? Shout out to Glen Ancelet from Saanichton Barber Shop!

Local Flavour: Feature

WEST COAST

GRILL SIDNEY

Nestled along the sparkling shores of Van Isle Marina in Sidney, West Coast Grill is the perfect destination for those seeking fresh flavours paired with breathtaking views.

With a menu inspired by the bounty of Vancouver Island, the restaurant highlights the best of land and sea – succulent seafood, premium cuts, and vibrant seasonal produce. Whether you’re enjoying a casual lunch, a romantic dinner or cocktails at sunset, every experience is enhanced by the stunning marina backdrop and warm, attentive service.

Relax on the waterfront patio, sip a glass of B.C.’s finest wine, and savour dishes crafted to showcase the true taste of the West Coast. At West Coast Grill, every visit is more than a meal – it’s a celebration of island living, where fresh ingredients, coastal charm and unforgettable views come together seamlessly WEST

GRILL SIDNEY

2320 Harbour Road, Sidney

The New Era of Holiday Home Décor:

How 2025’s Christmas Trends Mix

Nostalgia with Imagination

The holidays in 2025 are all about intentional warmth and effortless style.

This year, decorating is less about matching sets and more about creating a home that feels personal, cozy and beautifully layered. From rich, moody tones and plush textures to natural greenery and playful accents, the season’s trends invite us to slow down, curate thoughtfully, and let every detail tell a story. Whether you favour timeless elegance, whimsical touches, or a mix of both, this is the year to make your holiday décor uniquely yours.

A RETURN TO “MODERN NOSTALGIA”

In 2025, holiday decorating is all about rediscovering comfort through the past, but with a twist. Retro ornaments, classic Santas and heirloom decorations are making a comeback. Items that remind people of childhood and shared holiday history. Rather than mass-manufactured, sterile décor, people want pieces that feel personal.

COLOUR TRENDS

Rich and moody: Forest green, ruby red, deep navy, antique gold

Warm earthy: Mocha, soft taupe, olive, champagne gold

Whimsical: Rose, soft mint, blush, frosted lilac

Woodland: Terracotta, cream, amber, sage

Jewel Toned: Emerald, sapphire, ruby, gold

Tips:

• Mix textures (velvet, matte, glass, wood) to add depth.

• Choose lighting to complement palette (warm lights for rich tones, cool for pastels).

• Anchor bold colours with neutrals (white, cream, soft grey, natural wood).

• Use metallics and small accent colours to elevate the décor.

• Blend personal or nostalgic pieces with trend colours for a cozy, curated look.

ELEVATED NATURE, TEXTURES & FOREST LUXE

As sustainability continues to shape design, 2025’s holiday trend leans into a Forest Luxe, where organic beauty meets

quiet luxury. Dark, moody greens, deep browns and jewel tones are accented with gold, brass or copper. There’s a strong pull toward materials that feel closer to nature. Branches, pinecones, moss, dried florals, greenery, and botanicals can be paired with metallic accents, glass, or crystal details. Layering materials like velvet, linen, faux fur and woven fibres make spaces feel cozy yet sophisticated. The trend is about sensory appeal, combining soft, plush fabrics with harder surfaces for contrast. These elements bring texture and a sense of calm and authenticity.

THE ART OF MOOD LIGHTING

This year’s illumination trend is all about warmth and ambiance. Harsh white LEDs are out; soft, amber-toned light is in. Singlecolour themes like royal blue or warm white lend a clean, cohesive display. Think string lights, candle clusters, lanterns and dimmable lamps, mixed with multi-coloured lights. The result? Spaces that feel softer, calmer, and endlessly inviting. For outdoor lighting, opt for using smart-controlled lighting systems that allow for easy customization and scheduling. It’s also best to choose solar-powered or energyefficient LED lights to reduce environmental impact.

PERSONALIZED & PLAYFUL TREES

Homeowners are ditching cookie-cutter colour schemes for storytelling trees that reflect personal passions or travel memories. This season, you’ll find a blend of nostalgia, personalization and bold aesthetics. Oversized bows, celestial or quirky ornaments, and ornaments with personal stories. Mini framed photos, handmade ornaments, and vintage treasures make each branch unique. It’s not about matching – it’s about meaning.

A SEASON TO FEEL, NOT JUST TO SEE

As the 2025 holiday season unfolds, decorating has become less about perfection and more about personal expression. Your home will glow with character, from mismatched vintage ornaments to handcrafted garlands. This year’s trends invite us to slow down, to savour the ritual of decorating, and to create spaces that tell our stories. Let your décor reflect the memories you cherish, the people you love, and the magic you want to feel when you step through your front door. After all, the season’s greatest statement piece isn’t on the mantel – it’s the joy that fills the room.

Holiday Styling Tips for

Your Home:

1. Mixed Metallics: Blend gold, pewter, and bronze for subtle shimmer and depth.

2. Velvet Ribbons: Upgrade trees and wreaths with luxe textures in plum, moss, or champagne.

3. Botanical Touches: Style with fresh cedar, eucalyptus, or dried citrus for organic charm.

4. Play with Scale: Oversized ornaments and chunky candles make bold, festive statements.

5. Nostalgic Whimsy: Mix vintage finds with new pieces for character and charm.

6. Cozy Lighting: Layer fairy lights and soft-glow bulbs for ambient warmth.

7. Intentional Styling: Group decor by tone or texture –less clutter, more cohesion.

8. Personal Details: Display family photos, handwritten tags or sentimental keepsakes.

9. Signature Scent: Complete the mood with woodsy or spiced seasonal aromas.

10. Layered Neutrals: Build warmth with ivory, taupe, and soft metallics for a modern, inviting palette.

Enjoy our MASSIVE HOT TUB SALE all November long! But hurry, these offers won’t last.

• Includes 5 in/3 in hardtop cover.

48 Interchangeable Jets can be customized to individual pressure.

Bluetooth Audio Streaming and 2 speakers.

Multi coloured LED mood lighting, waterfall and aromatherapy canister.

Ozone Water purification system along with 50sqft of Antimicrobial Glacier filtration ensures crystal clear water.

• Insulation includes high-density close cell foam that surrounds the shell, and infrared-lined insulated cabinet that traps the heat inside the spa.

• 2 5HP 2 speed pumps along with air control values offer a strong adjustable massage.

• 84x84x35in - 1200L - 240V/50A - 850lbs (dry) 3500lbs (filled)

www.canadianspacompany.ca

For over 25 years, Power To Be has been making nature more accessible through inclusive outdoor programs that support well-being and build community. Whether through adaptive recreation or nature-based learning, our goal is to create experiences that are empowering, meaningful and tailored to the needs of each participant. We run programs across Vancouver Island, where our fully accessible Prospect Lake site offers forest trails, camping areas and waterfront access, and in Metro Vancouver and the Mainland, where we partner with local parks and organizations to offer outdoor experiences to a wide range of communities. From kayaking and hiking, to camping and snowshoeing, to landscaping and mindfulness, we offer a

variety of activities designed to meet people where they’re at.

This year, we’re excited to expand our reach with the launch of our new Pathways for Seniors program, which supports older adults in accessing nature-based experiences. Funded in part by the Government of Canada’s New Horizons for Seniors Program, this initiative is helping seniors reconnect with the outdoors and with each other, reducing isolation and promoting wellness. Opportunities include canoeing, movement sessions, educational nature talks, gardening and more.

One of the things that makes Power To Be truly special is our dedicated community – our staff, volunteers, partners and participants who share a belief in the power of nature to bring people together, and ultimately,

Power To Be: Everyone Belongs in Nature

Power To Be is a registered charity that creates access to nature for youth, adults, and families living with cognitive, physical, financial, and social barriers.

to change lives. Nature isn’t just a backdrop for our programs. It can offer a moment of stillness, a change in perspective and the space to heal, and research continues to show that time outdoors can reduce stress, improve mood and support overall well-being. For many of our participants, these experiences are not only joyful – they're life-changing.

At Power To Be, we believe that Everyone Belongs in Nature, and I have witnessed firsthand the magic that happens when people feel supported, connected, and free to explore the outdoors.

The impact of these moments lasts well beyond the day itself, and I’m so grateful to everyone who continues to help us create these experiences.

We’re always looking for new ways to engage with and

support our community, and there are so many ways to get involved with Power To Be – donating, volunteering, and spreading the word to create awareness are just a few ways that you can help us keep running our inclusive programs. If you or someone you know could benefit from our programs, we would love to hear from you!

Over the years at Power To Be, I've seen time and time again that when we come together as a community, truly incredible things can happen. Let’s build a world where everyone – regardless of age, ability, or circumstance – can experience the freedom and healing of nature.

To learn more or get involved, visit www.powertobe.ca or email us at info@powertobe.ca.

WORDS & PHOTOS DANA HUTCHINGS CO-CEO, POWER TO BE

I support Shoreline Medical for very personal reasons. Three years ago, when I found a concerning lump, my doctor took my concerns seriously. He worked quickly and efficiently, with lots of attention and compassion, ensuring I had a specialist and testing in place. When my fears were confirmed, he made sure I had fast and uninterrupted treatment. I know his attention to my care had an impact on getting me to healing success!

Fast forward to now – this experience has given my husband and family (and me!) so much comfort. And to this day, Shoreline continues to provide me with amazing care, starting as soon as I walk in the door. From the MOAs at the front desk to the nurses and my doctor, everyone treats me with compassionate, knowledgeable good cheer.

I want this kind of outstanding care for everyone in our beautiful community, so I support Shoreline Medical Society in their efforts to recruit more caregivers.

Join me, and help ensure a healthier future for everyone on the Saanich Peninsula.

Just go to shorelinemedical.ca and click the “Donate” button.

Lucia White

Community Supporter, Chef Extraordinaire,

Shoreline Advocate

Dedicated

VANDERUYT WEALTH MANAGEMENT GROUP,

SUPPORTING OUR COMMUNITY.

WHAT MAKES THE SAANICH PENINSULA A GREAT PLACE TO LIVE AND WORK?

At VandeRuyt Wealth Management Group we believe it’s the people and their community support. We recognize the profound impact that women have through their unique businesses and their passion for volunteering and giving back. Our commitment to our clients extends beyond financial advising; we strive to empower and support the causes that are important to the women and families we serve.

Whether it’s supporting charities and organizations on the Saanich Peninsula or Greater Victoria, participating in community events or presenting educational workshops, we believe in fostering a spirit of collaboration.

We find that most of the women referred to us are highly responsible women who lead lives that are engaged in careers and community. They are trying to do the right thing for themselves and their family. For many a recent crisis has created new financial worries, that has brought unwanted fear and anxiety about their future. We find that women want to feel heard and understood, while being engaged in the process as they gain more knowledge and financial confidence.

We are proud to create a space where women’s voices are heard and their philanthropic efforts are amplified. Together, we can cultivate a thriving community where generosity and volunteerism flourish. At Vanderuyt Wealth Management, our mission is not just to manage wealth, but to nurture a legacy of giving that inspires future generations. Join us in making a difference!

We support or have been involved in:

• Sponsor of the annual SPHHF donor appreciation tea

• Annual garden sponsor for Victoria Hospice Teeny Tiny Garden tour

• Founding member of the 100 Women Who Care Saanich Peninsula

• Sponsor for the Peninsula Singers Spring and Christmas concerts

• Past President and current board member of the Union Club of British Columbia

• Past President of the SP Community Foundation

• The Goddess Run

• Treasurer for the Westmont Montessori School

- Viola Van de Ruyt and Racheal Jamieson

EVERY PLAN STARTS WITH A FIRST STEP. YOU HAVE THE POWER TO START.

Life brings change, sometimes expected, sometimes not. Planning your financial future isn’t about having all the answers from the start; it’s about having the courage to begin. We’re a women-led wealth advisory team dedicated to building your Life by Design Plan as unique and powerful as you are. rough empathy, experience, and honest conversations, we’ll help you design a path that supports the life you want to lead.

Ready to uncover your strength and confidence?

Visit violavanderuyt.ca to start the conversation

Racheal Jamieson CIM® Wealth AdviSor 250-657-2208 racheal.jamieson@nbc.ca

Viola Van de Ruyt CIM, FCSI, CPCA Wealth Advisor 250-657-2220 viola.vanderuyt@nbc.ca

Marcus Van de Ruyt Associate 250-657-2222 marcus.vanderuyt@nbc.ca

Viola Van de Ruyt, Racheal Jamieson and retired team member, Annette Quan at the Goddess Run.

From the Kitchen

Fabulously FRENCH

I may be biased, but when I hear a recipe said with its traditional French name, it just sounds more impressive.

WORDS JOAN SAUNDERS

PHOTOS SARAH HARTLEY PHOTOGRAPHY

Take, for example, Coq au Vin; it’s a dish that was created to make the tough meat of a rooster more palatable. Simply put, the name just means “rooster with wine.” An essential component of the recipe is the wine because its acidity helps to tenderize the meat, even before you start cooking. And, as we are substituting rooster with some chicken thighs or perhaps, drumsticks, the dark meat helps avoid creating something that’s dry and overcooked.

When you cook with wine, choose one you enjoy. Usually Coq au Vin is made with a full-bodied red wine. Its earthiness helps develop the base of a rich, flavourful sauce that doesn’t overpower the fairly simple ingredients. The

general rule for cooking with wine is that if you wouldn’t like to drink a glass of it on its own, don’t put it in the dish. This doesn’t mean you have to buy an expensive bottle, but the wine definitely transforms this recipe into something special. This delicious, savoury classic is even better the next day. Just refrigerate any leftovers and gently reheat. Or, if you’re busy, make it the day before and you’ll be ready to go when guests arrive. It’s delicious paired with something that helps to sop up the sauce, like good crusty bread or a baguette, or perhaps some creamy mashed potatoes. You could also try it with rice, couscous or noodles. Add a simple salad tossed with a tangy mustard dressing and you’ve got yourself a fabulous fall meal. Bon appétit.

COQ AU VIN (SERVES 4)

8 skin on, bone in chicken thighs kosher salt, as needed pepper

1 bottle red wine (traditionally a Pinot Noir)

1 bay leaf

4 sprigs fresh thyme

1 cup diced bacon

1 diced onion

3 carrots, peeled, chopped small (about 1 cup)

10 mushrooms, washed, trimmed, quartered

2 cloves garlic, minced

2 tsp tomato paste

2 tbsp flour

2 tbsp butter, room temperature

1 cup pearl onions, peeled about 2 cups chicken broth, or as needed

1/3 cup flat leaf parsley, chopped

Season chicken (on both sides) with salt and pepper. In a large bowl, combine chicken with wine, bay leaf, thyme sprigs. Cover and marinate for 30 minutes.

In a Dutch oven or large pot, cook bacon over medium heat until browned and crispy (about 10 minutes). Remove pan from heat and transfer cooked bacon to a plate lined with paper towels. Reserve leftover fat in pot.

Take chicken out of wine marinade (keep marinade for later). Return pot to stovetop. Heat fat over medium heat until it starts to shimmer. Put chicken, skin side down, in pan and cook until brown, about 4-5 minutes. Flip and cook on the other side for about 4 minutes. Work in batches if needed, so you don’t crowd the pieces of chicken. If needed, add a little bit of olive oil. Move seared chicken to a plate.

If there’s too much oil/liquid in the pot at this point, remove some with spoon or paper towel (leave about 1 tbsp). Add onion, carrots and mushrooms to pan; season with a bit of salt. Cook at medium-low for about 8 minutes, or until softened.

Add tomato paste and garlic and mix with the veggies while cooking for about 1 minute more. Add the

marinade. Bring the mix to a boil over medium-high heat and cook for about 15 minutes, or until the liquid is reduced to about half.

Add the chicken, pearl onions, bacon. There should be enough liquid to just cover the chicken, if not add as much chicken stock as needed. Cover and simmer over low heat until chicken is tender (about one hour).

After the hour, uncover, remove chicken and put on a plate; continue to simmer sauce for about 10 minutes.

While it’s simmering, mash the butter and flour together into a smooth paste. Add about 2-3 tbsp of the hot liquid mixture into flour/butter mix; combine until smooth. Mix butter/flour/sauce into pot; simmer until sauce thickens further. It should be thick enough to lightly coat the back of a spoon (should only take a couple of minutes). Remove bay leaf and thyme sprigs, if you can.

Return chicken to pot and simmer until warm. Remove from heat; garnish with chopped parsley. Serve with something to sop up the sauce with like mashed potatoes, roasted potatoes, crusty bread, rice, whatever you prefer.

We'll Read and We'll Roar

The Maritime provinces of Canada produce admirable numbers of awardwinning authors – not to mention comedians and musicians. The cultural voice of the region is distinct, as the Irish and Celtic heritages of many residents influence the accent and music. The region has often been seen as politically under-regarded, and suffers harsh weather and fluctuating resource-based employment. Physically separated from Canada, and entering into Confederation only in 1945, Newfoundland is the most distinct of the maritime regions. While outports had been settled for centuries, these villages were isolated, at the mercy of hard weather and a short, difficult growing season. The ocean delineated the lives of the residents and St. John’s was distant, so comfort and amusement were found in folk mythologies and the storytelling tradition.

the families of “King-me” Sellers and the Widow Devine.

Crummey is an avid collector of Newfoundland folklore and delights in using local idiom. His character names and inclusion of local expressions are evocative: Azariah and Jabez Trim join Judah and Absalom in highlighting the biblical excessiveness of Paradise Deep’s rivalries, while those bush-borns and merry-begots who are not lazy stawkins jig up together.

The expansive storyline is not meant to be history but a compilation of folktales woven into a cohesive narrative: triplets with one pair of boots between them, a travelling parish priest who regularly beds a parishioner in the presence of her husband’s ghost, and mummers whose boisterous banter reveals dark secrets. However, the depiction of Newfoundland and its wind-ravaged coasts is real. Families’ lives depended on the fishing fleet, and neighbours – friendly or not, Catholic or Protestant – were essential while a wry humour provided ease. By favouring folk over fact, Crummey underscores the role that cultural history and community stories play in the distinctive character of this region.

Galore, by Newfoundland’s Michael Crummey, is a fantastical tale set in Paradise Deep, an outport whose residents live a life of isolation and hardship. When a beached whale spills a naked, living albino man from its stomach, the event is taken in stride, though his arrival sets off two centuries of rivalry between

There are so many excellent novels set in Eastern Canada, from Wayne Johnston’s fictionalized account of Joey Smallwood’s rise, to stories of Nova Scotia families who struggle, but find love and solace in strong community. These books will break your heart, amaze you, and provide pithy, entertaining reading.

1. The Colony of Unrequited Dreams by Wayne Johnston

2. Fall on Your Knees by Ann-Marie MacDonald

3. Nights Below Station Street by David Adams Richards

WORDS JACKIE LAPLANTE

Final Orbit Apollo Murders #3 Chris Hadfield Mystery HC | $39.00

The Proving Ground Lincoln Lawyer #8 Michael Connelly Mystery HC | $42.00

The Widow John Grisham Fiction HC | $42.00

The Marionette Terry Fallis Fiction PB | $26.00 A Season for Spies Lane Winslow prequel Iona Whishaw Mystery

The God of the Woods

Moore Fiction

Most Grievous Fault

We Survived the Night:

Indigenous Reckoning Julian Brave

Sharpe’s Storm

#24

The Black Wolf Gamache #20 Louise Penny Mystery HC | $40.00

RANCHO VIGNOLA Harvest Sale

NOVEMBER 28TH & 29TH

Friday: 9am - 7pm • Saturday: 9am - 5pm Mary Winspear Centre • 2243 Beacon Ave, Sidney

The Experience

The Rancho Vignola Harvest Sale only comes around once a year, in rhythm with the season. It’s a free event that you will want to make a special trip for in order to stock up on the “Best of the New Crop”. But how does it work?

Greeted with a welcoming smile, you will be handed this year’s product list and invited to explore and taste over 100 different items brought in for this occasion from the freshly stocked Rancho Vignola warehouse in Armstrong, B.C. Friendly and knowledgeable staff are available to answer all of your questions and ensure you have a taste of everything you wish to taste.

Shop and go or choose to stay a while and take in some cooking demos, enjoy a coffee, choose from a wide selection of gift packs to please every foodie on your holiday list, enter to win a gift basket and get to chat with our local staff.

For the 11th year in a row, Rancho Vignola are setting up their Vancouver Island Harvest Sale, right here at the Mary Winspear Centre in Sidney. Many of you are now very familiar with the Best of the New Crop nuts, dried fruit, seeds and confections that this Okanagan-based company brings in every year and will be anticipating the return once again. This will be a fun-filled tasting and buying event and will once again include sample tastings, prize draws and live cooking demos by guest chefs, including Chef Heidi Finck. You will immediately taste the difference that freshness makes, when tasting delicious new crop nuts, dried fruit and confections, all brought in from the latest harvest of farms from far and wide.

Once you have made your choices, our team will pick all the items marked on your list, check with you that you have all you were looking for, and bring them to you at the till. Need help on the way out? We will be there to help carry your bounty to your car!

Maple Crunch Granola

INGREDIENTS:

2 cups sliced almonds

2 cups walnuts, chopped(or pecans, or a mix of both)

2 cups puffed rice or rolled oats (optional)

1 cup pumpkin seeds

1 cup sunflower seeds

DIRECTIONS:

1 cup ribbon coconut

1/4 cup maple syrup (the darker the syrup, the more maple flavour!)

2 tbsp coconut oil, melted pinch of salt

Preheat your oven to 300°F. Mix all ingredients in a large bowl until the dry ingredients are evenly coated with the wet ingredients.

Spread the granola onto a baking sheet with a rim to contain it, and bake for about 20 minutes. After the first 10 minutes of baking, take it out and quickly stir the granola; put it back in your oven. As granola can overbake quickly, recheck it every 5 minutes after you return it to the oven. You’ll know the granola is done when the ribbon coconut starts to brown.

Let the granola cool completely at room temperature. If you stir it about 5 minutes into cooling you’ll avoid needing to break up clumps once totally cooled. Store in an airtight container.

S I D N E Y

H O L I D A Y

S H O P P I N G N I G H T

Experience the Charm of a Small Town Christmas FRI NOV 21 5-8 PM

Downtown Sidney shops are open late for a special evening featuring complimentary

EXCLUSIVE HOLIDAY GIVEAWAYS

PHOTOS + COOKIES WITH SANTA COMPLIMENTARY HOT CHOCOLATE

EXPLORESIDNEY.CA

@EXPLORESIDNEY

SEASIDE STORIES

Off the Land

House of Orange Farm: The Colour of Crops & Culture

"House of Orange Farm" is an unusual name. Often a farm’s name will reflect a feature or product of that farm, but with House of Orange Farm on Oldfield Road, the name does more than that.

WORDS JO BARNES

PHOTOS SARAH HARTLEY PHOTOGRAPHY

Erik Beerepoot and Kaitlyn Matulewicz chose a name to shine a light on what they hope to successfully cultivate and also family heritage. “The farm name has a double meaning. I spent most of my youth living in the Netherlands but emigrated to Canada when my parents wanted to expand their dairy operation and bought a farm in southern Ontario,” adds Erik. “Orange is the national colour of the Netherlands and we started the farm with the intention of growing citrus.”

Kaitlyn adds: “We wanted the farm name to stand out and to be a name that people could remember.” The couple bought the current three-acre property four years ago. Since then, along with growing a family, the new farmers have been growing their practical skills on their

way to achieving their ultimate dream of farming citrus and flowers. Erik has been hard at work establishing a viable citrus stock while Kaitlyn has been cultivating flowers to market. The two crops complement each other.

“March to October is harvest time for the flowers with downtime in the winter. Citrus is ready to harvest in winter during January and February,” says Kaitlyn. “So, it’s a good balance between the two crops.”

It was the gift of a lime tree from Kaitlyn and the taste of a unique orange one day that prompted Erik’s initial interest in citrus. The discovery of an online video by a local Peninsula citrus grower provided further inspiration and proof that citrus farming was viable on the Peninsula. “My love for citrus was sparked by tasting

Sumo Citrus, a large, easily peelable mandarin with great flavour,” shares Erik. “I discovered videos by Bob Duncan and Jane Squier about growing citrus on Vancouver Island and Salt Spring, and since then I've always preferred challenges over easy paths, the idea of growing marginal crops for our climate zone really appealed to me.”

Off the farm, Erik is a full-time software engineer and spends his spare time building the farm infrastructure and cultivating citrus.

Currently, while not yet ready for marketing to customers, a diversity of young citrus stock grow in large heated greenhouses both onsite and offsite at another family acreage. “We've now grown our collection to 16 varieties of citrus including blood oranges, sumo citrus, lemons, limons, and four varieties of satsumas,” comments Erik. “What excites me about citrus is the variety of flavours and the fact that it's winter-harvested when fresh local options are scarce.”

Shop locally this holiday season

With locally sourced and imported products this is a foodie and gifts destination worth discovering!

Meanwhile, since 2024, Kaitlyn has been successfully trying her hand at growing flowers and bringing them to marketplace. The types of flowers have expanded over time, and, as seems fitting, there are always orange ones in the mix. “I started with annuals like cosmos and zinnias in the first season and then progressed to more complicated flowers including lisianthus, dahlias, sweet peas, ranunculi, daffodil and tulips,” relates Kaitlyn. “I also grow various dried flowers such as strawflower, paper flower, amaranth and winged everlasting.”

Kaitlyn has learned a lot along the way, as she endeavours to grow flowers in an eco-friendly

for me. She often let me bring flowers home to my mom, who was terminally ill. It meant so much to me."

At this time of year, Kaitlyn is busy creating beautiful wreaths and bouquets with flowers she has harvested and dried while Erik is keeping his eye on the citrus crop which very soon will be ready for harvesting. With farming tasks to do, the festive season ahead, and a vibrant three-year-old future farmer in the midst, it all makes for a very busy House of Orange. Erik and Kaitlyn wouldn’t have it any other way.

www.houseoforange.farm

Biking & Big Girl Summers

WORDS CASSIDY NUNN

PHOTO NUNN OTHER PHOTOGRAPHY

“I’m having a big girl summer,” my five-and-a-half-year-old daughter stated as she kicked her legs out in front of her on the swing and then tucked them back in, propelling herself higher and higher on the playground swing set. “I learned to pump on the swings with no more push starts and I can ride my bike with no training wheels!” She beamed proudly as I leaned against the swing set, my job of pushing the swing suddenly no longer needed. This summer marked several of these milestone moments for my daughter. Learning to ride a bike is a core memory from my

own childhood, and I think it’s one that many of us remember vividly. I can still so clearly see the day my dad decided the training wheels were coming off my bike. I remember my nervousness, his steady hand calmly holding the back seat while I wobbled and corrected, slowly finding my balance as he gently encouraged me. The pavement of our back lane was scattered with tiny stones that threatened to trip up my bike at any wrong turn; my handlebar streamers soared beside me as I gained speed, the pedals spinning faster as my legs became more confident in their rhythm. Then the moment

when I snuck a glance back and saw my dad far in the distance, that gut wrenching second of realization – I'd actually been pedalling on my own for quite some time! My older daughter started her bike riding journey on an adorable, tiny toddler bike that she rode inside our house constantly. Eventually she upgraded to a strider bike and she’d fly up and down our cul-de-sac, little legs propelling her along at impressive speeds. Last year she was finally tall enough for a hand-me-down bike with training wheels, and this summer she decided on her own after observing her older friend learning to ride her two-wheeler that it was time to ditch the training wheels once and for all.

I had rosy visions of teaching her to ride it just like my dad had taught me. After all, I had spent the entirety of my Grade 12 summer teaching bike camps to kids, but this didn’t mean anything to her and I was met with a fierce determination that she’d do it on her own. She pushed away any attempts of help and insisted on continuing to run along rather than use the pedals, riding it like a strider bike. My husband tried as well and was met with the same fierce rejection, and when her uncle – who was a professional mountain biker –came for a visit, we thought for sure he’d be the one to finally help her meet this milestone.

But no, she was still adamant that she’d do it her own way.

As a parent, it’s always difficult to watch your child struggle, to not jump in and help them, or show them an easier way. But sometimes, as I’m learning, the struggle is where the most important learning happens. I admire her tenacity, her dedication to figuring it out on her own, which she did, as soon as we finally stepped back and allowed her the space for trial and error without our feedback. She developed her own style of using her feet to run with it like a strider bike, and then once she’d reached a fast enough speed she’d swing her feet onto the pedals and off she’d go. It might not be the most traditional or technically effective method to ride a bike, but it works for her. Biking has offered her a new sense of independence, freedom and a boost in confidence. Summer nights were spent riding in circles at the end of our cul-desac, connecting with friends for neighbourhood bike rides and bringing her bike on any and all weekend adventures.

I’m continually humbled in this parenting journey, pausing to reflect on my own childhood and then learning to allow hers to unfold in its own beautiful way. I wonder if one day she’ll remember this milestone moment of learning to bike on her own and remember how her own efforts and resilience paid off. And that her parents were still there, cheering her on.

2243 Beacon Avenue, Sidney | 250-656-0275

Benise & Pavlo

|

marywinspear.ca

November 7

World renowned guitar virtuoso and PBS Allstars, Benise and Pavlo, will take audiences on an intimate and romantic journey through fiery Spanish guitar and cool editerranean rhythms.

Mediterranean

Benise and Pavlo create an unforgettable evening filled with a beautiful tapestry of guitar arrangements that stem from influences around the world. All your favorite classics in a romantic candlelight setting. “Moonlight Sonata,” “Aranjuez,” “Thunderstruck,” “Malaguena,” “Hotel California,” and “Kashmir,” to name a few.

Benise shattered the mold of Spanish guitar by combining world ard winning production show. Benise, known as “The Prince of Spanish Guitar Tour and 8th PBS Special “25 Years of Passion!” From street performer to performing arou albums, 8 DVD’s and his music has been featured in the Olympics and he performed on the th the Stars.

Pavlo’s Mediterranean music speaks for itself. Over the span of nationally renowned, awardwinning recording artist, performer and songwriter, has release rt Specials. Pavlo has made a name for himself by offering a musical amalgam he simply d of Greek, flamenco, Latin, and even Balkan flavors wrapped in contemporary pop. His

Aerialists

November 12

music and dance to create his Emmy award Guitar,” just launched his 25th Anniversary around the world, Benise has released 18 #1 rate show in the USA – Dancing with his 20 year career, Pavlo, the internationally released 17 albums to include 4 PBS TV concert calls “Mediterranean music” – a blend music has taken him all around the world.

At one moment a prog-rock band, the next an Irish-Scottish-Norwegian trad band, then an experimental indie-jazz band, then somehow all of these at once, Aerialists have alchemized diverse influences into a sound with striking clarity. It’s ethereal yet precise, technical yet visceral. Aerialists emerged from the new acoustic scene at Berklee College of Music nearly a decade ago, born from the creative affinity between harpist Màiri Chaimbeul, fiddler Elise Boeur, and guitarist Adam Iredale-Gray. Now with three albums, a JUNO nomination, and Canadian Folk Music Award for Pushing The Boundaries under eir claim on the leading

their belt, Aerialists have staked their edge of the neo-folk world.

groove like a drum kit, that a fiddle can sturdy and flexible enough to thrive in the Lost My Heart On Friday is a celebration distinctly Canadian lens.

The band’s arrangements assert the belief that a harp can groov be more ferocious than a distorted electric guitar, and that traditional tunes are sturd e seemingly inhospitable landscape of indie-rock instrumentation. Their new record I Los of their deep roots in Scottish, Irish, and Nordic folk traditions, seen through a dis

Upcoming Events

November

Jeremy Dutcher

November 19

Jeremy Dutcher is a Two-Spirit Wolastoqiyik (Maliseet) musician activist whose art bridges the gap between past and future. Thr groundbreaking blend of ancestral recordings, classical trainin contemporary sound, Dutcher has become one of Canada’s most cel voices for Indigenous resurgence and cultural preservation.

Born in Fredericton, New Brunswick, Jeremy Dutcher grew up in t First Nation, one of the largest Wolastoqiyik communities in At From a young age, they were surrounded by song and storytelling became a way for them to explore their identity and their commu

Through their training, and celebrated the Tobique Atlantic Canada. storytelling. Music quickly community’s history.

Dutcher studied music and anthropology at Dalhousie University, trained as a tenor in Western classical and operatic traditions in European repertoire, they began to reflect on the stories an were absent from these stages — the songs of their own people. realization would shape the course of their career.

where they traditions. While immersed and sounds that This

Dutcher’s work goes far beyond music. As a Two-Spirit artist, D openly about the intersections of gender, queerness, and Indige Indigenous communities, Two-Spirit people traditionally held respected roles as knowledge keepers and mediators. Through their public presence performances, Dutcher contributes to restoring visibility to th challenging both colonial erasure and rigid Western gender bina

Dutcher speaks Indigeneity. In and this identity, binaries.

Jeremy Dutcher is not just performing songs — they’re carrying language, a history, and a vision for the future. Their art cha confront colonial histories, to listen deeply, and to understan cultures are living, evolving, and powerful.

forward a challenges audiences to understand that Indigenous

Monthly Meetings

SEASIDE STORIES

Meet Your Neighbours

Fay Chisholm: The Art of Volunteering

Volunteerism is hopefully not a lost art. While the workforce may ensure the world turns, without volunteers, it wouldn’t turn very fast.

WORDS JAMILA DOUHAIBI

SARAH HARTLEY PHOTOGRAPHY

Choosing to support the community without financial compensation still reaps the rewards of connection and companionship, but the output can still be much greater than the input. Fay Chisholm has been upholding this art for decades, giving back through the Saanich Peninsula Hospital, Tourist Info Centre, and so much more.

Born on the Prairies, Fay moved to the Island in 1986. In Manitoba during her 20s and 30s, she belonged to a nonacademic sorority with the motto “the only right you have is the right to be useful.” She also volunteered with the Virden Chamber of Commerce, which she says introduced her to many new people and produced new friends. After settling on the Saanich Peninsula, she again looked for ways to get into the community and keep the sorority’s volunteer-driven motto going strong.

For nearly 30 years, Fay volunteered with Peninsula Emergency Measures Organization (PEMO). The organization was set up to

respond to natural disasters and emergencies. Fay admits that when she first moved to the Peninsula, she didn’t realize that it was an earthquake zone and wanted to know where to go if there was an emergency. Through PEMO, which is under the umbrella of the three local fire departments, Fay gained knowledge and experience on how to respond and support the community and visitors. She says there were many “mock exercises,” that took place in Sidney, throughout the Peninsula, and even on the BC ferries. Of all the volunteer positions she’s held, Fay says this one felt like it was making the biggest difference. Years ago, when there was a bomb scare on one of the ferries, Fay remembers helping at a reception centre in Sidney where several out-of-town passengers stayed.

Fay learned some great pointers that everyone should know, including having a “grab and go kit” at home and in your car. The kit should have water and medications, and possibly a satellite radio if you don’t have

PHOTO

a working car radio. Another great suggestion is having a pair of shoes under the bed to put on in case of an earthquake. If mirrors or glass break in bedrooms, a pair of shoes will ensure a speedy exit.

In another long-term position, Fay volunteered with the Saanich Peninsula Hospital until the pandemic. For 10 years she was at the front desk, greeting everyone with a smile. She said many people came from the smaller islands and would be nervous, but she provided a positive start to their hospital visit. She was there when the hospital considered closing their emergency room, which led to an outcry of objections that quashed that plan. Hardest for her was when friends were in palliative care, but when family came in, her presence acted as a space for people to transition into their time at the hospital.

At the Tourist Information Centre, where Fay volunteered once a week for 18 years, she got to see the ebb and flow

of tourists as each new ferry brought people to the Centre. She says she met people from all over the world and sees the Centre as a “vital connection for anyone coming off the ferry” – another place that acts as the first point of contact as people enter new or different surroundings. Part of her experience there was doing “fam tours,” or familiarization tours, where volunteers would visit different restaurants, hotels and attractions to be able to give genuine recommendations. Fay says she was there to share “joy with everybody.”

In the 55+ park where Fay now lives, she always encourages people to become more involved in the community. She raised her daughter Cheryl with the same mindset; she has now taken over Fay’s role at the park’s clubhouse. Fay believes that giving back to the community decreases isolation and connects people to numerous opportunities that will match their capabilities. She says: “you can never be lonely if you step out and volunteer.”

Celebrating 35 Years of Dedication

This year marks an extraordinary milestone at Holmes Realty (now Coldwell Banker Oceanside) 35 years with our valued team member, Deanna Kirk.

In a world where careers often span just a few years in one place, Deanna's journey stands out as a testament to loyalty, resilience and heart. From her very first days with us, she has been more than an employee-she has been a cornerstone of our company, a creative spark and a trusted confidante.

Through the ups and downs of the real estate industry, Deanna has been there, offering wisdom, encouragement, and a sense of humor that has carried us through many challenges. Her contributions have helped shape the culture of Holmes Realty / Coldwell Banker into the welcoming, supportive and community-minded place it is today.

We are deeply grateful for the 35 years Deanna has given to our team, our clients, and our community. Please join us in celebrating this remarkable achievement and in thanking Deanna for her unwavering commitment.

Congratulations, Deanna, on 35 years with Holmes Realty!

Michele Holmes - The Holmes Realty Group & Coldwell Banker Oceanside

There’s something magical about November on the West Coast – that misty salt air, the scent of cedar after rain, and the cozy permission to pull on your softest sweater and slow down. But between the endless drizzle, darker mornings, and that “is it 4 p.m. or midnight?” feeling, our energy starts to dip. I don’t know about you, but this time of year used to have me running on coffee and sheer determination. My skin would dull, my sleep would slip, and my motivation – well, it often stayed under the covers.

That was before I learned that in Chinese Medicine (CM), November isn’t a season to fight – it’s one to flow with. Nature turns inward, conserving energy, and our bodies are meant to do the same. Instead of pushing harder, Chinese medicine invites us to listen, nourish and restore – to create balance from the inside out. Here are five ways to stay healthy and grounded this November, the Chinese Medicine way.

REST IS MEDICINE

In Chinese Medicine, fall transitions into winter are governed by the Kidney system – your deep energy reserves. Think of it as your body’s

internal battery. This is the time to slow down and protect your energy. Go to bed earlier, spend evenings unplugged, and replace high-intensity workouts with gentler movement like yin yoga or walking in the rain. Rest isn’t lazy – it’s deeply productive.

EAT TO WARM & NOURISH YIN

November calls for comfort foods that build warmth and moisture in the body. Think soups, stews, roasted root veggies, and congee. Chinese Medicine loves cooked, easy-todigest meals in cooler months. Avoid too many raw salads or cold smoothies – they can dampen digestion. Add ginger, cinnamon and miso to keep your inner fire glowing.

SUPPORT YOUR LUNGS & IMMUNE SYSTEM

The lung system is especially vulnerable in fall – that’s why we catch more colds and coughs. Support your lungs by breathing deeply, getting fresh (even misty) air, and practising gratitude – yes, emotional wellbeing affects lung qi too! Foods like pears, daikon and white mushrooms help nourish the

Staying Healthy the Chinese Medicine Way: Finding Balance in November

lungs and keep mucus at bay.

EMBRACE LIGHT & MOVEMENT

We all feel the darker days, but Chinese Medicine reminds us: stagnation is the enemy of vitality. Keep your Qi moving! Even a short morning walk, stretching at your desk, or standing by the window to soak up daylight helps prevent that heavy, low-energy feeling. Try a gentle acupuncture session to boost circulation and mood.

TEND TO YOUR EMOTIONAL HEALTH

As nature turns inward, so do

we. It’s normal to feel reflective –even emotional – in November. Chinese medicine sees emotions as energy that moves through the body. If you’re feeling stuck or low, acupuncture can help regulate your nervous system and restore emotional balance. Think of it as a seasonal reset for body and mind.

This season, instead of fighting the slower rhythm, honour it. Light the candles, make the soup, breathe deeply, and let your body settle into the wisdom of the season. If your body’s been whispering for balance – for deeper rest, smoother digestion, or calmer moods – it might be time to listen.

www.katiemusicco.com

WORDS KATIE MUSICCO, ACUPUNCTURIST PENINSULA NATUROPATHIC CLINIC

SEASIDE STORIES

New & Noteworthy

CELEBRATING 45 YEARS OF SONG

Founded in 1980, The Peninsula Singers has grown from a small group of friends into a 60-voice show choir performing two annual concerts at the Mary Winspear Centre. Over the decades, the choir has delighted audiences with music, choreography and heart, and raised more than $60,000 for the Saanich Peninsula Hospital & Healthcare Foundation’s Music Therapy Program. Today, the Peninsula Singers proudly continue their tradition of song, community and charitable support. Congratulations and Happy Anniversary!

run weekends in November for $10 per person.

LEST WE FORGET

Each year on Remembrance Day the BC Aviation Museum opens it doors to ensure we never forget. The helicopter landing area behind The Hangar Flight Museum was once a parade square during the Second World War as part of the British Commonwealth Air Training Plan. Eagle Copters and Alpine Helicopters partner with us to host the service in this space. Snow or shine, we find a way to remember. Admission by cash donation.

Many local children and families have taken photos with him at community events. The best part was always running back for the biggest, best hugs ever!

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

BEHIND THE BLOOMS

Go behind the scenes at The Butchart Gardens this November with a guided Greenhouse Tour led by an expert gardener. Tours

PENINSULA LOSES ITS SANTA

Santa Al passed away peacefully on September 29 with his family and friends close by, telling stories, reminiscing and keeping vigil at his bedside.

A group of local residents is trying to give Santa Al an amazing send-off and help him achieve his goal of donating over $100,000 to the Hospice; as of last December he was at $84,000. If you have special message for him or to his family, or would like to donate in his name, please visit https://www.facebook.com/ santaforthehospice. For those that would like to pay their respects and celebrate Santa Al, please join on November 23 at 1 p.m. at: Chiefs & PO’s Mess, 1575 Lyall Street, Victoria.

FALL INTO THE SALISH SEA

Sidney residents can now enjoy discounted annual

WORDS JUNE MURRAY DAGNALL

memberships to the Shaw Centre for the Salish Sea as a token of appreciation for their ongoing support of the Centre.

NORTH SAANICH RESIDENT PUBLISHES HER NEXT NOVEL

Published by Nightwood Editions, Meg Todd’s new novel, Most Grievous Fault, is a powerful debut about marginalization, motherhood, and the complexities of the social welfare system. In sharp, unsentimental prose, Meg Todd tells the story of Crystal Constantine, a young mother desperate to escape poverty, trauma, and the truth of her past. Meg Todd is a two-time finalist for the CBC Short Story Prize.

SHORELINE MEDICAL SOCIETY GROWS TO MEET COMMUNITY NEEDS

Shoreline Medical Society continues to expand its impact across the Saanich Peninsula, growing from just five physicians to a network of over 25 medical professionals.

BUTIK NATURALS GIVES BACK

Butik Naturals has donated $10,000 to the Shoreline Medical Youth Clinic through its Linen for a Cause campaign, which ran throughout August at their

Sidney boutique. The funds will directly support no-cost, confidential health services for local youth, ensuring access to vital health care. A big congratulations to Butik Naturals for their generosity and commitment to the community!

COMMUNITY

GENEROSITY TRANSFORMS PATIENT CARE

The Saanich Peninsula Hospital & Healthcare Foundation has reached its $15 million fundraising goal to renovate the Acute Care Unit – a milestone made possible by the incredible generosity of the community. The transformation will improve patient comfort, safety, and care for generations to come. Learn more at www.sphf.ca.

SIDNEY RESIDENTS GIVE HIGH MARKS TO TOWN SERVICES AND QUALITY OF LIFE

The 2025 Sidney Citizen Satisfaction Survey, conducted by Ipsos with 1,156 residents, shows strong support for Town services (93% satisfied) and quality of life (98% rated good/ very good). Key concerns include transportation, housing and growth. Council will repeat the survey every four years. Learn more at www.sidney.ca.

Through donor-directed giving, you can make a gift to the Saanich Peninsula Community Foundation and choose a specific non-profit to receive it. While many donors invest in our endowment fund, this option o ers a more personal way to give.

As a registered charity, we’ll issue your tax receipt and ensure your gift is directed

YOUR COMMUNITY YOUR GIFT • YOUR LEGACY info@sp-cf.ca | sp-cf.ca

to your choosen qualifying organization.

We’re here to help you create the kind of impact that’s meaningful to you, and meaningful to our community.

Interested in making a donor-directed gift? Contact us today to learn more about how we can work together.

Let’s face it: most pets don’t love going to the vet. The moment the carrier comes out or the leash gets clipped in an “unusual” way, pets everywhere activate full drama mode. There’s squirming, suspicious sideeyes, and sometimes, a very specific form of betrayal you can only get from a cat forced into a crate. So it’s easy to understand why many pet owners quietly delay those annual checkups, after all “they seem fine, right?”

Well, just like humans can look perfectly healthy while their cholesterol is plaquing behind the scenes, pets can also mask problems like pros. That’s why regular vet visits matter, even when your furry friend appears to be thriving.

Dogs and cats, despite being members of our modern households, still have some very old-school survival

instincts. In the wild, showing signs of weakness meant becoming someone’s lunch, so many animals evolved to mask discomfort or illness until things get serious.

By the time you notice something's off, let's say, they're not eating, or they’re sleeping more than usual (which for a cat is saying a lot), the issue may already be advanced. Regular checkups help catch things like kidney disease, dental infections or early arthritis before your pet starts broadcasting distress signals.

Preventative care isn't just a nice idea, it can actually save you money in the long run. Vets can spot early warning signs of conditions like diabetes, heart disease or obesity and help you address them with preventative care, before they become costly emergencies. Once a disease is already in motion, most of

Why Regular Vet Checkups Matter (Even if Your Pet Seems Healthy)

the handling usually is about managing the symptoms, instead of an actual cure.

Regular vet visits aren’t just about catching disease; they’re about making sure your pet is living their best life. That means checking for things like dental health (bad breath isn’t just gross: it could mean painful infections), mobility issues, or even signs of autoimmune disease. Your vet can help with dietary recommendations, behaviour concerns or ways to make your senior pet more comfortable. They’re not just there to have a quick chat, a listen to the heart, and be on your way. They’re a partner in your pet’s long-term wellbeing. Plus, when your vet gets to know your pet over time, they’re more likely to notice when something’s “off,” even in subtle ways.

WORDS JACQUELINE NICOLL K & CO. MARKETING

If you’ve been putting off your pet’s checkup because they seem fine, consider this your friendly nudge. Regular vet visits might not be your pet’s favourite outing (or yours), but they’re one of the best things you can do to ensure a long, healthy, tail-wagging or purring life.

And with the holiday season around the corner, it’s worth giving a second thought to the festive chaos, such as the rich foods, decorative plants, and tempting but toxic treats that can quickly turn into a surprise trip to the vet. Awareness now can save everyone some stress (and a big bill later).

Your pet may not be able to say “thank you” (and let’s be honest, the cat wouldn’t even if they could), but you’ll see it in their relaxed stretch, their happy tail wag, or the way they quietly follow you from room to room like your second shadow.

Walk Through a Farm with Chace Whitson

Country Elegance on the Saanich Peninsula

Let the road wind away from the bustle of town and into the calm heart of Central Saanich. The landscape stretches in a patchwork of green, framed by forest and the soft rise of Mount Newton. Here, the world slows. The rhythm of farm life – the distant hum of a tractor, the rustle of orchard leaves –feels steady and grounding.

Built by Villamar Construction, the Hamptons-inspired farmhouse at 1527 Mt Newton Cross Road embodies that

same harmony: timeless architecture paired with modern sophistication. Shingled in natural cedar and anchored by clean, symmetrical lines, the home blends coastal elegance with pastoral charm.

The kitchen is truly the heart of this home, where Chace might pause mid-tour to describe how morning light fills the space or how the open design naturally draws people together. Beyond, the living room opens to wide

lawns and fields beyond. French doors invite the outdoors in, framing goldenhour views that spill warmth into every corner. Upstairs, two primary suites offer serene verandas that capture the sunrise or sunset.

But it’s when you step outside that the property’s story truly deepens. Over 62 acres of fertile land, the possibilities expand – vineyard, orchard, equestrian estate or working farm. Chace knows these lands intimately: the microclimates,

the zoning nuances, the heritage of agriculture that shaped this region. His understanding of the Saanich Peninsula’s intricate land use and community fabric gives each tour a sense of insight and ease.

“This isn’t just about selling a home,” Chace says as the sun dips behind the ridge. “It’s about connecting people to place. Helping them understand how to live here.”

www.chacewhitson.com

Light-filled living spaces draw the outdoors in, where gatherings spill effortlessly onto the patio and gardens beyond.

A chef’s kitchen designed for both beauty and purpose— marble surfaces, brass fixtures and custom millwork create a timeless, coastal elegance.

Wake to the hush of the countryside – private verandas and golden morning light set the rhythm of the day.

Expansive views in every direction—morning light over open fields, and the serene promise of space and privacy.

Evenings unfold on the terrace, framed by lavender rows and the distant hum of farmland.

62 acres of pastoral beauty stretch across the Saanich Peninsula – fertile soil ready for vineyard, orchard or farm.

Dream Landscape

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

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

Contact our landscape team today to begin the transformation of your property. Excellent quality. Excellent value. Professional, respectful and courteous. Personable. Prompt and timely. Outstanding work ethic.

~ P. Keenan

Transforming Interiors Since 1976: Rodco Draperies & Upholstery

At Rodco Draperies & Upholstery, every space is viewed as an opportunity to reflect the personality, purpose, and lifestyle of the people who live or work in it. Based in North Saanich, this family-owned company has been transforming interiors since 1976. As a secondgeneration business, Rodco is built on a foundation of craftsmanship, trust, and an unwavering commitment to quality.

Over the decades, Rodco has earned a reputation not only for skill and attention to detail, but also for the genuine care this fatherson team brings to every project. The company delivers personalized interior transformations across a wide range of services, including custom window coverings, upholstery, furniture, bedding, shower curtains, and their signature Eaze Drape System.

All their products are designed for lasting beauty and value, thereby saving clients money over time without compromising on style. With every project, Rodco combines deep industry knowledge with a passion for quality, ensuring every detail reflects the client’s needs, style and vision.

Rodco’s portfolio includes work with residential clients, hospitals and care centres, hotels, restaurants and educational facilities across Canada, with each solution tailored to the unique requirements of the space.

At the heart of Rodco are Roger and Fielding, who believe in a truly personal approach. When you contact Rodco, you will speak directly with them to arrange a consultation. They are always responsive and accessible, guiding clients through every step of the process to ensure comfort and confidence from start to finish.

Whether your project is a single room or a complete home update, Rodco blends artistry with practicality. They work closely with clients to stay on budget while creating interiors that are beautiful, enduring, and a true reflection of how they live.

If you are ready to transform your space please visit www. rodcodrapesblindsupholstery. ca to explore Rodco’s services and start your story today. They offer the right product for the right price every time!

Please note: Rodco Draperies & Upholstery does not accept e-transfer payments at this time due to ongoing hacking. Soon to be fixed.

Lilith Fair: Building a Mystery

Few music documentaries can capture an era vividly, but Lilith Fair: Building a Mystery does exactly that. This month’s film recommendation, streaming on CBC Gem, brings the festival’s energy and spirit to life. Directed by Ally Pankiw and produced by Dan Levy under his Not a Real Production banner, this 2025 documentary revisits the groundbreaking Lilith Fair music festival, which celebrated female artists and championed equality in the music industry. Featuring performances and reflections from Sarah McLachlan, Jewel, Erykah Badu, Bonnie Raitt, Sheryl Crow, Natalie Merchant and more, the film balances nostalgia with insight into the cultural impact of the festival.

Despite never attending a show myself, watching the documentary I felt transported back to the 1990s. The soundtrack, live performances and behindthe-scenes glimpses made it feel as though I was experiencing Lilith Fair firsthand. One particularly magical moment captured in the documentary comes from archival footage at the end of each show, when the artists would come together on stage to sing the final song. You can feel the joy and the power of music uniting so many voices at once.

At its core, Lilith Fair: Building a Mystery highlights the vision and leadership of Sarah McLachlan, who was young and relatively green when she launched the festival. Her dedication and creativity brought together some of the most talented female musicians of the time, creating a safe and inspiring space for artists and audiences. The festival also served as a cultural milestone, demonstrating that female performers could headline and succeed on a large scale. It offered a platform for women in a male-dominated industry and aligned with the broader "girl power" movement of the era, emphasizing collaboration, empowerment, and artistic equality.

The documentary is joyful to watch, seamlessly blending concert footage with current interviews. The artists reflect on the magic of the festival, the friendships it fostered, and the ripple effects it created across the music industry. While the music is central, the film also captures the spirit of perseverance and unity that defined the Lilith Fair experience. It is a celebration of artistry and vision, a uniquely Canadian-produced story, and a reminder of how music can inspire and create cultural change.

Whether you’re nostalgic for the 90s or discovering the festival for the first time, this documentary is a heartfelt and inspiring look at a pivotal moment in music history.

For similar music-focused and culturally impactful documentaries, check out: Summer of Soul, Disney+ 20 Feet from Stardom, Prime Women Who Rock, Prime

Whitney: Can I Be Me, Prime

John Candy: I Like Me, Prime

WORDS TABATHA GOLAT

SEASIDE LIVING

Steph's Day Out

The “Star” of the Peninsula

So you thought you were the centre of the universe? Well, I can’t say if that's true, but I can tell you for certain that you can easily be AT the Centre of the Universe!

Perched on the tippy-top of Little Saanichton Mountain, you’ve surely seen its unmistakable dome from afar.

If you haven’t yet made the two-kilometre drive uphill, know that it is worth your time, as you’ll be rewarded with a spectacular view of our fine Peninsula! I had to give a thumbs up to the gentlemen who was riding his “me-bike” (as opposed to his e-bike!) up the 200+ metre (700+ foot) incline.

Once atop this National Historic Site (built over 100 years ago, with a nod to the visionaries who designed it and horses who pulled up the supplies) you can’t help but understand why Victoria is the astrological hub of Western Canada. This jawdropping, in-high-demand telescope is one of the most important and iconic in Canadian astronomy history.

Even if astronomy isn’t your passion, by spending time with some of the experts in the field you will likely catch a little of their enthusiasm and for sure be impressed that there are such smart people out there researching the unreachable.

Make sure you take in all that the Observatory offers: the ever-changing gallery, with interactive exhibits and oodles of information for star-gazing aficionados; the theatre, which hosts many guest lecturers and movies; the 100+ year old to-scale model of the Observatory; and of course the Sun Dome Planetarium. While their Planetarium may be tiny, holding around 20 adults, the knowledgeable tour guides use the exact same software as the full-size planetariums do so you can still get a spectacular show.

WORDS & PHOTOS STEPHANIE STAPLES

Fully accessible, everyone can tour both the building and the Observatory that houses the Plaskett Telescope, and you should – it’s really a feat of incredible engineering, especially when you learn how many of the original parts are still being used. Yes, it’s completely digitalized now, but the retractable roof just boggles my mind.

In addition to going for a tour, be sure to sign up for the ever-popular Star Parties, which are no longer limited to summer evenings. Because they happen earlier in the non-summer months with the shorter days, you can even take your little ones and have them home in time for bed.

The Star Parties are very popular, and even with 200 spots, they sell out quickly; you must plan your visit and preregister to ensure you secure a spot (or three!). While they do run rain or shine, order a clear night for the full experience

where they open the dome – it caused audible gasps from the impressed crowd the night we were there. The also have a guest lecturer on Star Party nights – the night we went the talk was by a PhD candidate explaining the “basics” of Quantum Physics. The packed room was so engaged and asked brilliant questions, but truth be told, my bestie and I couldn’t even understand the basics. We did appreciate that the future is in the hands of some really bright people and were thankful that there wasn’t a test at the end! In addition to the Plaskett Telescope, you will see volunteers with abnormally large (as big as me) telescopes perched steadily and pointed purposefully at the moon or stars, and it was cool to have an opportunity to look through them and be educated on what’s in the night sky.

Despite the fact that the sign at the gated entrance looks very “Government of

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Canada-ishy” the Centre of the Universe (operating as Friends of the Dominion Astrophysical Observatory) is actually the not-for-profit arm that keeps it ticking. This means that admission dollars subsidize the school programs, camps

and other educational events that happen there as well as keeping the building up to date.

You can (and should!) find out more about this “star” of the Peninsula at www.centreoftheuniverse.org

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

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A DEMOGRAPHIC TIME BOMB

In the developed world, the “Seniors” population segment is increasing dramatically. At the same time, with declining fertility rates, the proportion of available working people is declining. Governments are not doing enough to address the inevitable consequences of a shrinking workforce.

In the developing world, birth rates remain high and improved health care has significantly increased childhood survival rates. As a result, workforce growth continues to outpace that of their aging populations. This is the polar opposite outcome to that of “rich” countries, such as Canada.

Japan has the world’s oldest demographic, with more than 28% of its population over age 65. Italy is in second place at 23%; and Canada, at approximately 20%, is not far behind. Of greatest concern for Canada is the accelerating growth in its percentage of seniors.

This demographic shift inevitably leads to greater economic pressure on a shrinking workforce – to support, and pay for, increasing demands for health-care services, long-term care facilities, nursing homes and government-support programs such as Old Age Security.

In Canada, the number of those aged 85 or over has not only more than doubled in the last 20 years, but continues to increase annually. While a great testament to both our increased longevity and the general effectiveness of our universal health care system, studies have shown that seniors over age 65 account for almost 50% of health care expenditures, with costs skyrocketing for the over-85 population.

Unless drastic remedial action is taken, as the next several decades unfold the consequences

of this demographic shift are highly predictable:

Dramatic increases in health-care cost as a percentage of GDP

Major increases in demand and cost for seniors’ support services

Massive increases in cost of Old Age Security and GIS payments to seniors

. Probable need to increase the age eligibility for OAS benefits

. Declining savings

Increasing interest rates

Two potential solutions exist. One proven; the other still very much a question mark.

The most practical solution is a carefully structured immigration program that not only attracts the younger demographic, but also focuses on the skills Canada requires. For four years commencing in 2021, the Federal Government went too far on this solution, accepting more than 400,000 immigrants annually. An overwhelming 50% increase in immigrants arriving resulted in major stress on an already limited housing supply, leading to higher rental and ownership costs for all Canadians. While the Government has recently trimmed its annual targets, immigration will need to remain a major contributor to the long-term growth of our working population.

The as yet additional, but unproven solution, could be the broad application of Artificial Intelligence, leading to massive productivity increases in a declining workforce segment, while helping fund much of the skyrocketing cost of our aging population.

In all likelihood, a careful blending of Immigration policies and the strategicallyapplied AI will be required. Stay tuned!

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

The Poppy Campaign: Strengthening Our Community

Every November, we place a poppy on our lapel as a symbol of remembrance. But the Poppy Campaign is more than a tribute to the fallen – it is a living tradition that continues to serve our community today. Each donation entrusted to the campaign is carefully directed to programs that provide comfort, dignity and opportunity to those who need it most in our community. The generosity of donors has a direct impact on the lives of veterans, seniors and youth across the Saanich Peninsula.

At Broadmead Care’s Veterans Memorial Lodge and Legion Manor, funds help ensure that those who once served our nation receive the respect and quality of life they deserve in their later years. Through support for the Saanich Peninsula Stroke Recovery Society and the Saanich Peninsula Hospital & Healthcare Foundation, donations help restore health and independence for community members facing challenges. These contributions strengthen local healthcare, making it more responsive and accessible for everyone.

In addition, the Poppy Fund provides bursaries to young adults pursuing secondary education. By helping local students take their next steps in learning, the Legion ensures that the values of service, perseverance and community continue to guide the next generation. These bursaries are both a tribute to the sacrifices of veterans and an investment in a brighter future.

At the Mount Newton Centre, donations fund adult day programs that bring care and connection to seniors, easing isolation and supporting families.

For veterans who face the harshest struggles, the Legion’s national initiative –

Operation: Leave the Streets Behind – uses Poppy Fund dollars to help those who are homeless or at risk of homelessness. This program provides immediate assistance, housing and hope for those who once wore the uniform of service.

Taken together, these investments represent more than financial contributions: they are a reflection of shared values. They show what a community can achieve when it comes together in remembrance and in action.

The campaign also invests in the future by supporting youth programs such as the Kitty Hawk Air Cadets and the Navy League Cadets. These organizations provide young people with discipline, leadership skills and a sense of responsibility – qualities that enrich not only their own lives but also the broader community.

To everyone who has placed a coin in a poppy box, wore the poppy with pride, or gave in memory of a loved one: thank you. Your generosity is building a stronger, more compassionate community. Each poppy worn is a promise kept – to honour the past, to serve the present, and to build a better future.

www.broadmeadcare.com/donate-now Knut is a Second World War veteran who lives at Veterans Memorial Lodge. Your donations help him live as fully as possible, every day.

WORDS PENINSULA LEGION BRANCH 37

LML CLEANING SERVICES

Rooted in Community

For Louise Liboiron and Paul Denton, running LML Cleaning Services has always been about more than keeping homes and offices spotless. What began as a small, family-run business has grown into a trusted name across the Saanich Peninsula, thanks to the support of neighbours, customers, and friends who have welcomed them wholeheartedly.

Over the years, Louise and Paul have seen their work expand beyond cleaning. Many customers have become long-time friends, sharing milestones and stories while inviting the LML team into their homes and workplaces. That sense of connection is what inspires them most. They often say the Peninsula hasn’t just supported their business, it has embraced them as part of its own fabric.

The journey hasn’t always been easy, but the encouragement and loyalty of the community have made all the difference. Louise and Paul are deeply grateful to the residents and businesses of the Saanich Peninsula for trusting them with their spaces and for cheering them on through every step of their growth.

From the entire LML team: thank you for making us feel at home. We’re proud to be part of such a vibrant, caring community.

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.

Discover exceptional quality and value with our custom cabinets on the Saanich Peninsula! As a full-service millwork and renovation company, we provide personalized design, manufacturing, and expert installation. Visit DCC’s stunning new showroom and transform your space today!

It’s not Christmas at muffet & louisa without Patience Brewster! Reindeer, Santa and his sleigh, the Wise Men and Manger animals are all here!

107-2360 Beacon Ave, Sidney 250.656.0011 | muffetandlouisa.com

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MUFFET & LOUISA

#107 - 2360 Beacon Ave, Sidney

Welcome to the holiday season! This is our second Christmas in our new larger space and once again we are so excited to have more space for you all to come to visit and discover all our beautiful winter and Christmas offerings

You might remember our raffle from past years; once again we are raffling off a fabulous set of AllClad d5 cookware to raise funds for the Saanich Peninsula Hospital Foundation. The raffle starts November 15 and tickets are only $5 each! Tickets make a great stocking stuffer – or just a gift for yourself –and all the proceeds go to our wonderful hospital!

We love to help you find the very best presents for the whole family – perhaps cosy Garneau sheepskin slippers? Or something for the kitchen, or our very special Christmas delicacies?

As for decorating, the enchanting family of decorations from Patience Brewster takes centre stage, surrounded by all the sparkle you could want.

We have to thank you all for your patience while we have had to be closed this summer; you, our customers, are so kind and generous. Thank you all for another wonderful year, and we wish you a very happy and healthy holiday season.

1527 Mt Newton Cross Road, Central Saanich | $5,499,000

Cordova Bay Road, Saanich

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Health + Homecoming Gala Raises Over $440,000 for New Community Health Centre

WORDS COOL AID SOCIETY

What began as a vision more than a decade ago – to expand vital health supports for thousands of people in our community –took a major step forward on September 27, when the Victoria Cool Aid Society hosted its inaugural Health + Homecoming Gala at the Hotel Grand Pacific. An intimate gathering of guests, sponsors and donors raised an extraordinary $440,000 in support of the Dr. Joe Haegert Community Health Centre at Crosstown on Burnside Avenue.

From the moment guests stepped into the ballroom, the atmosphere was alive with energy and anticipation. Tables buzzed

with conversation, glasses clinked, and friends old and new came together for a shared purpose: to build a healthier, more compassionate Victoria.

Hosted by Ryan Price of CFAX 1070, the gala featured a spirited live auction led by Rahim “The Dream” Khudabux, while the FundA-Need appeal inspired remarkable generosity, raising more than $310,000 – including $135,000 in matches from two generous donors. Guests also bid enthusiastically on over 70 silent auction packages, from luxury hotel stays to wine tours and theatre tickets, making it one of the most exciting auctions of the year.

The evening offered more than bidding. Guests toured one of Cool Aid’s Mobile Health Clinics, a powerful reminder of how doctors and nurses bring barrier-free care directly into neighbourhoods. And when the lights dimmed and the band took the stage, Stephanie Greaves and The Late Shift kept the dance floor packed, their soulful performance the perfect finale to a night of joy, purpose and generosity.

The true success of the gala lies in what these funds will make possible. The Dr. Joe Haegert Community Health Centre will embed traumainformed health care directly within Crosstown – alongside supportive and affordable

housing – creating a seamless continuum of care under one roof. This unique model will help people move from crisis to stability and, ultimately, to independence.

With just $250,000 left to raise before the Centre opens in 2026, the dream is now within reach. And the giving doesn’t stop here: donations made before December 31 will be doubled, thanks to a generous matching gift in honour of Kevin, a beloved Cool Aid frontline worker. Visit www.coolaid.org/donatekevin for details .

Plans are already underway for next year’s gala, and after the success of this first celebration, it promises to be an event not to be missed.

Slowly But SHIRLEY

Having passed the four-year mark of leaning into another way of living, I thought those of you following our journey might enjoy an update.

In the original series, I invited readers along on our last chapter adventure – to build a sustainable home, surrounded by our grown children, where we might age and die in place – an experiment in communal living.

The good news is that we are still stewarding 10 acres of mostly forested land in Shirley, and the other good news is that it’s true what they say: “if you build it, they will come.”

Here are some of the highlights, for those who

might also be interested in living sustainably, creating an intentional community, aging well and dying a better death. This more connected and collaborative way of life is an antidote to loneliness, a welcome solution to a tumultuous and climatechanging world, and, if we are lucky, a way to live out our final years supported by a home death.

Rather than regale you with tales of frozen pipes, black bear-shattered barbecues and machete-made pathways, I thought I would share what’s gone well. The past 48 months have been spent learning new systems and living collaboratively in this more rural and remote location.

Our new build, an 850-squarefoot, single level, accessible home, is powered partially by solar, fed mostly by rainwater (with a well for backup), and complemented by compost toilets and greywater recycling. Conserving where we can,

we are building food security; growing food and fruit, treading lightly on the land, and sharing space with the creatures who have lived here longer (cougars, rabbits, bears, deer). We have mastered power outages, remote internet service, long distance grocery runs, and fire safety. We’ve endured expensive system maintenance, some challenging conflict resolution, and become more proactive and self-reliant.

We depend heavily on holistic health (the hospital is an hour away) and are actively learning and designing new ways of living, all while benefiting from a slower, smaller and simpler lifestyle. Our homemade health spa includes an infrared sauna, a hot tub, an above-ground pool, an outdoor shower, and a hammock. Forest bathing and outdoor meditating abound and the ocean is always available for a cold plunge by a warm fire. Our more remote lifestyle includes long distance learning,

WORDS & PHOTOS LINDA HUNTER

with some doing online post graduate degrees, others working from home, and still others commuting the long and winding road into Victoria. It means no more renting and everyone enjoying some form of home ownership, albeit on communal land. It means leaning into reciprocity with neighbours while having more agency over life’s big decisions. And while our next chapter choice flies in the face of the most current research on aging well – urban walkable centres, nearby services and medical care within reach – for us, interdependent living is a win/win. It means we have built-in care as we age and our needs change, including at end of life. Our children can afford home ownership, have some control over their future, and enjoy the mutual benefit of sibling support. We live in community with others, are outside more than inside, and

Embracing our collective strength, we are building new skillsets alongside well-worn wisdom, halving our workloads and our worries, pooling funds and sharing expenses. Our support systems are baked in: think economic challenges,

vacation coverage, shared costs, surgery recovery, group meals, and loving through loss.

In truth, everyone benefits, regardless of age, from community, connection and companionship. This just happens to be our family’s creative solution to building a

stronger foundation in a very uncertain future.

You can find Linda at www. livinganddyingwithgrace. com and you can catch up on her original LOVINGLARGElivingsmall bimonthly stories in our 2018 and 2019 issues.

Maureen Vincent Maureen Vincent Maureen Vincent

With winter holidays just around the corner, it’s a great time to remind ourselves why it is so important to shop local. We love supporting business owners in our community, finding unique treasures, and lowering our environmental impact. Here are some hidden gems around the Saanich Peninsula that you can support while doing your holiday shopping.

THE SHOP

It can be easy to miss – tucked away as it is off the main drag of Beacon Avenue. This cute little shop has a little bit of everything: tote bags, vintage furniture, local arts and crafts, tea towels, cozy winter accessories, refinished and upcycled goods, local ceramics and pottery, wooden antiques, paintings and coasters, just to name a few of its offerings. The beautifully curated selection changes often, so you’ll always find new things to covet. This one-ofa-kind shop is full of hidden treasures, with a friendly proprietor and amazing prices – often less than $10. Owner Katherine Margetts opened the shop as a way to honour her

sister and mother, who both passed away a few years ago. With new, vintage, reused and revived items, and showcasing local artists, The Shop has a wide variety on offer, meaning you’re sure to find the right gift for that special someone. You can find them on Facebook @keekeekreative or stop by in person at 9719 First Street in Sidney.

SPRUCE

CLOTHING & LIFESTYLE

Another great spot on the Peninsula, this shop in Brentwood Bay offers unique local products with a sustainable focus. With a West Coast vibe, it’s the perfect stop to grab a gift or two, a bite to eat, and some coffee. Warm and welcoming staff, a curated thrift section, and goods by local artists make this a popular spot to shop or just hang out. High quality with good prices, products range from soaps, skincare and candles to toques, mugs, beach towels, cards and prints – all with a focus on nature, environment, and sustainability. Spruce Clothing & Lifestyle is passionate about

Hidden Gems: Local Shops Around The Peninsula

community engagement and a minimalist lifestyle that reduces consumer waste and lowers our overall footprint. You can visit www.sprucebabe.com or find them at 828 Verdier Avenue.

THE SMART BOOKSHOP

Used bookstores are fantastic – it can feel like digging for hidden treasure among a great library of paperbacks and hardcovers. The Smart Bookshop has a wide selection, friendly staff, and quality used books. It is well organized, to help you find exactly what you’re looking for, and the books are reasonably priced. There is also a high turnover, so you can find new books every time you go! If you have gently-used books of your own that need a new home, you can bring them into the shop for a credit on future purchases. Whether you’re searching for that perfect book, or look forward to finding new authors and books you haven’t encountered before, this is a great option. They are located in Royal Oak at #105 - 4430 West Saanich Road.

NOMI DESIGNS

If you are looking for high-quality, locally-made fashion, Nomi Designs is the perfect place to find it. With sustainable and ethical design at the forefront, Nomi Designs offers gorgeous linen clothing that is both stylish and comfortable. Their made-to-order garments are the epitome of slow fashion, created right here on the Island. The minimalist and timeless styles use linen, which is made to last and requires far fewer resources to grow than alternatives like cotton – linen is also breathable, comfortable, durable and softens beautifully, with natural antimicrobial properties. In addition, the zero-waste designs ensure that all leftover linen fabric is repurposed into accessories like hats, scrunchies and bags, along with donations to local schools and artists. The goal is to foster creativity in the community and promote sustainability. Visit the website (www.nomidesigns.net) to make an appointment at the studio at 4924 Prospect Lake Road.

WORDS JESSE HOLTH

Dental Implants:

There’s something about a genuine smile – it’s one of the first things people notice, and one of the last they forget. But when you lose a tooth, smiling can start to feel complicated. You may find yourself chewing differently, speaking carefully, or hiding your grin altogether. For many people, dental implants have become the most natural, lasting way to reclaim that confidence.

At Sidney Centre Family Dentistry, this transformation is something the team witnesses every day. Having placed countless implants over the years, Dr. Braun has seen firsthand the powerful, positive effects they can have on patients’ lives – not only restoring function, but helping people rediscover the freedom of a confident smile.

A LASTING SOLUTION THAT FEELS NATURAL

Dental implants replace missing teeth from the root up. A small titanium post is carefully placed into the jawbone, where it bonds naturally over time to create a stable foundation for a crown, bridge or denture. Unlike traditional dentures or bridges, implants don’t shift or rely on neighbouring teeth for support. They look, feel, and function like natural teeth – often so

seamlessly that even close friends can’t tell the difference. For many patients, this procedure is truly life-changing. It restores not only the ability to chew comfortably and speak clearly, but also the confidence to smile fully again.

COMFORT, CARE AND MODERN TECHNIQUE

Every patient is different, and so is every implant. Dr. Braun primarily uses Straumann implants – a system recognized worldwide for its robust track record, cutting-edge design and extensive research backing. Straumann offers a variety of sizes and configurations to match each patient’s anatomy, ensuring strength, durability, and an exceptionally natural feel. That said, Dr. Braun is also experienced in restoring and maintaining a wide range of implant systems, allowing him to help patients who may already have existing implants from other providers.

Comfort is a top priority at every stage. The office offers IV sedation, allowing you to be completely relaxed, even asleep, while Dr. Braun performs your implant placement with precision and care. The environment is calm, modern and supportive, designed to

make your experience as stressfree as possible.

UNDERSTANDING YOUR OPTIONS

Dental implants are one of several ways to replace missing teeth, and it’s important to find the right fit for your goals and budget. Some patients choose traditional bridges or dentures, while others combine solutions for a customized approach. Dr. Braun takes the time to sit down with every patient to review all available options, explaining the pros and cons of each, including differences in cost, procedure, and longterm maintenance. This open, educational approach ensures that patients can make an informed decision that feels right for them, with no pressure, just clarity and support.

THE PROCESS

After a thorough consultation and digital imaging, the implant is gently placed into the jawbone using advanced surgical techniques. Over the following weeks, the bone integrates with the implant – a process called osseointegration – creating an incredibly strong foundation. Once the area has fully healed, a custom-crafted crown, bridge or denture is attached. Each restoration is designed to blend seamlessly with your natural teeth in both colour and shape. The result is a smile that feels whole again – strong, stable, and completely your own.

COST AND COVERAGE

The cost of an implant varies depending on the number of teeth replaced and whether additional procedures, such as bone grafting, are required.

At Sidney Centre Family Dentistry, the team works hard to make the process transparent and manageable.

They handle all insurance coordination on your behalf, including estimating what your plan will cover and clearly outlining your co-pay for every option discussed. The office bills insurance directly for their portion, so patients only need to pay the remaining balance. It’s a small touch that makes a big difference, ensuring that your focus stays on healing and smiling, not on paperwork.

While implants represent a higher initial investment, they are widely regarded as an exceptional long-term value. With proper care, an implant can last decades – or even a lifetime – offering lasting comfort, strength and peace of mind.

A SMILE WORTH SHARING

Losing a tooth can feel discouraging, but with today’s technology, it doesn’t have to be permanent. Dental implants offer a second chance – one that looks, feels and functions beautifully.

At Sidney Centre Family Dentistry, the experience is about more than just replacing a tooth. It’s about restoring confidence, comfort and connection, the small but powerful things that make every smile worth sharing.

Magnesium Bisglycinate

Promotes Relaxation and Muscle Function

Natural Factors Magnesium Bisglycinate temporarily promote relaxation without causing drowsiness. It is easy on the stomach and does not rely on stomach acid for absorption.

✔ Helps reduce feelings of occasional stress and nervousness

✔ Promotes relaxation and mental clarity

✔ Supports proper muscle function, including the heart muscle

✔ Helps maintain the body’s ability to metabolize nutrients

✔ Improves relaxation to help you drift off to a good night’s sleep

Total Body Collagen provides hydrolyzed collagen alongside synergistic nutrients to promote healthy skin and connective tissues, reduce joint pain associated with osteoarthritis, and support lean muscle growth and recovery after a workout. Boost healthy skin, connective tissue and joints from the inside out!

regenerlife Rejuvenate Your Life

Regenerlife Longevity is part of the Regenerlife anti-aging line of supplements formulated for wholebody rejuvenation and longevity. This is the best of all formulas and contains a one-month supply to complement your healthy lifestyle habits and promote energy from within.

Regenerlife TestoVitality promotes testosterone production in men. Testosterone levels begin to decline in men after age 30, which can affect energy levels, libido, muscle mass, and many other aspects of physical and mental well-being. TestoVitality combines standardized extracts of two evidence-based botanicals: organic maca and fenugreek.

The dark days really seem to creep up on us, especially as we hit daylight savings time. Suddenly you might find yourself driving to work in the dark and driving home in the dark, wondering if you can even remember what the sun felt like on your face.

While a bit of seasonal slowing down is definitely part of our natural rhythms, for many of us, we don’t have the luxury of slowing down, or we want to be able to do so without feeling so BLAH. That’s why I’m here, with six ways to naturally boost your energy levels as our days shorten.

LIGHT THERAPY

Light therapy is one of the easiest, non-invasive and natural ways to treat SAD. Special light boxes that provide 10,000 lux are used to simulate sunlight exposure. The daily goal is 30 to 60 minutes of direct facial exposure in the morning, as this has the added bonus

of resetting the circadian rhythm and stopping daytime melatonin (what makes you drowsy) secretion.

ENERGIZING SUPPLEMENTS

Incorporating a few supplements can ensure that your body is getting the necessary vitamins and minerals to function optimally and combat the winter blues.

Vitamin D. Research supports a connection between low vitamin D levels and low energy as well as seasonal depression. Due to a lack of sun exposure in winter months, many Canadians are low in Vitamin D.

B vitamins. Effective in helping maintain adequate energy and serotonin levels, I recommend finding a B-complex supplement that contains all the essential B vitamins such as thiamin, riboflavin, B6, B12, folic acid, and pantothenic acid (B5).

SEASIDE LIVING

Shorter Days: Boosting Energy Levels Naturally

Magnesium. Magnesium plays a crucial role in energy production. It also helps with relaxation to improve sleep.

KEEP YOUR DIET BALANCED

Binging on carbohydrates can be tempting when you’re feeling low, but it begins a cycle of highs and lows that will leave you feeling depleted. Try eating smaller and more frequent meals to regulate blood sugar, and incorporate plenty of healthy protein sources such as organic free-range meats, nuts, seeds and legumes.

GET MOVING

It may seem counterintuitive when you’re feeling in a slump, but getting your blood pumping will increase your energy. This is due to the release of feel-good endorphins that are the body’s natural painkiller. The runner’s high is a real thing!

WORDS DR. MARITA SCHAUCH, ND TALL TREE INTEGRATED HEALTH CENTRE

STAY HYDRATED

Even mild dehydration can drain your energy in a big way. Sip on water or herbal teas throughout the day, and incorporate some electrolytes if you need an extra boost.

PRIORITIZE SLEEP

Skimping out on sleep has a cumulative effect. You might think it’s okay to get five to six hours and grind out that little bit of extra time in your day, but your energy levels and health are going to pay for that. You’re much better off making the time for eight to nine hours, and doing a good wind down before bed.

Give yourself permission to slow down and embrace new priorities as the seasons change. Each day, lean into what brings you joy, and find a little something to brighten the winter months. And above all, remember – you’re never alone. Find a buddy to work on getting energized together.

MicroAdventuring: Nootka Sound & Cortes Island

I was hopeful I would finally see some whales. After 37 years on Vancouver Island, I had only gotten a few glimpses of the local orcas.

WORDS & PHOTOS SUSAN BEIDERWIEDEN

So, when the Times Colonist ran an article about the MV Uchuck III, describing the different cruises offered by Getwest Adventures, we signed up. Surely, I thought, a full day aboard a ship cruising Nootka Sound would mean my turn to be the whale whisperer. Last spring, we had booked a three-night stay on Cortes Island following Labour Day. Like many other Canadians this year, we decided to stay put and explore our own backyard. The addition of the cruise fit with our Cortes plans, extended the mini-break and had the spirit of a big adventure compressed into a day. I am sold on the idea of micro adventures, a term popularized by British adventurer Alastair Humphreys in 2011. It’s not a new concept, as most of us are used to creating short, affordable, local and accessible breaks from routine. Micro adventuring was an old idea made new during the days of

Covid restrictions when we craved distractions. These adventures can be as simple as an urban exploration, camping in the back yard, a spontaneous nature outing or picnic in some park. The possibilities are endless and, as Rick Antonson said in To Timbuktu for a Haircut: “every place, journey, and view holds potential. And there is never a more real landscape than the one where you stand.”

But there was one hitch when we called: the boat was waiting for a part and had been out of service seven weeks. According to the website, www.getwest. ca, the Uchuck III was originally built as an American Yard Minesweeper in 1942, and parts are hard to find. Repairs take time. The boat has been serving the west coast of Vancouver Island since 1955 with trips to lumber camps, fish farms, remote resorts, and pick-up and dropping off passengers and kayakers. There are also

cruise options such as the every-Tuesday Nootka Sound day trip, summertime visits to historic Friendly Cove and overnight Kyuquot Adventure cruises offered between June and October.

Meanwhile, as we waited to hear about the cruise, there was our Cortes Island trip. Cortes is one of those places where getting there is half the fun, being only a hop, skip and jump away by a ferry. Located in Desolation Sound between the Sunshine Coast and Vancouver Island, it is known for stunning beaches and as a paradise for outdoor enthusiasts. The 900 to 1,000 full-time residents are scattered around the three small community hubs on the southern portion of the Island. We were at Manson’s Landing, which has full services and nearby local activities. A slight smoke haze had settled over the area, preventing clear views of the mountains, but the weather was perfect.

We visited the Hollyhock Retreat Centre (www.hollyhock.ca) to enjoy a lunch made with fresh ingredients from their impressive garden and to stroll the campus. On our final day we saw a one-

woman art exhibit at the Old Schoolhouse Art Gallery and talked with the artist. She has a PhD and is a self-described “overeducated oyster farmer” when not writing or painting. Later while packing, we received word that the cruise was on!

Getting to Gold River, you are wedged between rugged cliffs and Upper Campbell Lake, driving along a narrow, snakey road without lights. It’s a reminder of how big, beautiful and wild parts of Vancouver Island are. And – not to drive this road at night!

The weather for our nine-hour cruise on Nootka Sound was mild and calm. The smoke haze continued but couldn’t alter our sense of awe of the area. As the Uchuck III chugged through the beautiful fjord, we watched as crew unloaded and reloaded tons of freight at five stops. We sat in the sun, strolled the decks, talked with crew and fellow passengers, and ate lunch in the galley. The images of the day are imprinted in my memory along with the smell of briny sea air and aroma of spicy chili mingled with diesel. And the wildlife tally? Seagulls: 3, Whales: 0.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

A financial advisor who has experience guiding investors through these market corrections is an invaluable asset to achieving one’s financial goals. Don’t take chances with your financial success because experience truly does matter!

www.raymondjames.ca/deborahreid

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.

• General, Cosmetic & Restorative Dentistry

• Sedation Dentistry

• Invisalign, Dental Guards & Appliances

• Oral Surgery

• Emergency Dentistry

• The latest in Dental Technology

Dr. Tracy Mitchell

The Benefits of Corporate Giving

WORDS JESSICA O'BRIEN CAMERON WEALTH ADVISOR, PORTFOLIO MANAGER, CIBC WOOD GUNDY

As the year is coming to a close, many organizations take this opportunity to reflect on their impact and consider ways to give back. The holiday season makes this a particularly meaningful time to explore charitable contributions. For businesses, thoughtful corporate giving can offer a host of benefits.

BOOSTING EMPLOYEE ENGAGEMENT

Corporate giving programs can foster a sense of pride among employees. When staff members see their employer actively contributing to meaningful causes, they are more likely to feel engaged and motivated.

Studies have shown that companies with strong corporate social responsibility programs experience higher employee satisfaction and lower turnover rates1.

Our team directed Miracle Day Funds to the Saanich Peninsula Hospital and Healthcare Foundation, enabling the purchase of a pediatric dental cart.

This experience not only supported a meaningful cause but also served as a valuable team-building opportunity, allowing us to see the positive impact our contribution made in the community.

STRENGTHENING COMMUNITY RELATIONSHIPS

Corporate giving helps

build stronger relationships with your community. By supporting local charities or events, companies can create goodwill and foster partnerships that benefit both the business and the community. These relationships can lead to new business opportunities and improved community relations.

TAX ADVANTAGES

While the primary motivation for corporate giving should be genuine social impact, there are also financial incentives. There are potential tax deductions or credits for charitable contributions, providing a direct benefit to the company’s bottom line. It’s important, however, to consult with tax professionals.

Corporate giving is an investment in a company’s workforce and community. Doing good is good business!

1. Harvard Business School Online's Business Insights Blog, https://online. hbs.edu/blog/post/corporate-socialresponsibility-statistics

This information, including any opinion, is based on various sources believed to be reliable, but its accuracy cannot be guaranteed and is subject to change.

CIBC Private Wealth consists of services provided by CIBC and certain of its subsidiaries, including CIBC Wood Gundy, a division of CIBC World Markets Inc. The CIBC logo and "CIBC Private Wealth" are trademarks of CIBC, used under license. "Wood Gundy" is a registered trademark of CIBC World Markets Inc.

Individuals are advised to seek advice regarding their particular circumstances from their personal tax and legal advisors. If you are currently a CIBC Wood Gundy client, please contact your Investment Advisor.

Dr. Peters at Runway Dental is now welcoming new patients!

for his gentle, approachable manner, he has a remarkable ability to put clients at ease, making even routine visits feel smooth and stress-free. From preventive care and check-ups to more advanced treatments, Dr. Peters tailors every appointment to meet each client’s needs. With the Runway Dental team by his side, he

Off the Vine

California's Loss, B.C.'s Gain:

A Wine Industry Reversal

Picture this: a crisp winter's day in Vancouver at the International Wine Festival. California and Oregon winemakers out in force, toasting partnership and "brotherly love" with their B.C. counterparts.

On Thursday, February 27, the mood was downright celebratory. American growers talked about supporting B.C.'s wine industry with much-needed grapes. We were all friends here, raising glasses to crossborder kinship.

Then came Saturday, and the Trump administration announced sweeping tariffs on Canadian products. By the afternoon, there was no American wine to be found at the festival store.

The Trump administration's tariffs hit like a bad hangover. Canada – long the U.S.’s most important wine export market – essentially shut the door.

Ironically, this year provided perfect growing conditions. The rebound from the California drought continued over the winter, piling the Sierra Nevada with snow perfect for the long melt across the summer. Cool conditions throughout the year enabled grapes to mature slowly, creating what could be a fantastic vintage.

The problem is there's now a glut of grapes and grape juice. All this excess inventory means winemakers must lower prices to move product, even if it means tighter margins. Recent reporting in the Wall Street Journal revealed that Jackson Family Wines (who own brands like La Crema – one of the biggestselling wines in America) had reduced the price of a bottle by about US$1.50. The SVP of Marketing at the company revealed: "We see this magic line of US$19.99" as the target price for a bottle of wine. Whilst it might be harder to find U.S. wine in Canada, there's no mistake that it remains great value for money.

blueprint. In response to the Trump administration's tariffs, the government has pushed hard on a "Buy Canadian" marketing campaign. At many liquor stores, the U.S. aisle has been replaced with rows of local Canadian products. In Ontario, the LCBO has reported that sales of wine featuring the Vintners Quality Alliance (VQA) logo have risen 60% since U.S. products were removed. The VQA label demonstrates the wine was produced using local grapes and manufactured locally – in Ontario or B.C.

There's a certain poetic justice to it all. That Thursday at the wine festival, we were the grateful neighbours, dependent on American generosity. Today, B.C. wine is staking its claim – not as California's little cousin, but as a distinct and worthy competitor. Our cooler climate produces elegant, foodfriendly wines that deserve shelf space on their own merits, not just as gap-fillers when imports dry up.

From April 2024 to April 2025, U.S. wine imports dropped 98% – a catastrophic collapse for the industry. This follows significant falls in exports from the U.S. to the U.K. (29%) and Japan (23%).

For winemakers in California, the timing couldn't be worse. Whereas in B.C. there aren't enough grapes to make wine, in California, there aren't enough customers. Healthconscious consumers are not buying wine in the same quantities as their parents and grandparents. Wine also remains stubbornly expensive in bars ($15 a glass, anyone?) and choosing the right wine for the right time can often stump the average buyer.

The challenges in California reflect changing consumer preferences worldwide. The combination of inflation and shifting demographics heralds a far smaller market for wine going forward. Global wine consumption now sits at levels not seen since the early 1960s. This April, The International Organisation of Vine and Wine (OIV) reported that the average consumer “was now paying about 30% more for a bottle than in 2019."

Here's the paradox: as consumers spend less overall, when they do buy a bottle, they pay more. The mid-to-top range of the wine market is growing, even as the broader market declines.

B.C.’S OPPORTUNITY

Is there a way forward for the wine industry facing these challenges? The B.C. example might offer a

EDITOR'S PICK: SOUTH OF THE BORDER RECOMMENDATION

Ridge Vineyards –Lytton Estate Dry Creek Valley Petite Sirah 2019

If you can find it, Ridge Vineyards products are some of the best wines you can buy on the West Coast. Their blended wines are spectacular (including their Three Valleys – Sonoma County bottle). A fantastic gift – I highly recommend their wines, though they're increasingly rare north of the 49th parallel.

WORDS RICHARD HOPE

Explore the Possibilities at Amica Beechwood Village

A new season often brings with it a new chapter. If you’re considering senior living in Sidney, this is the perfect time to discover all we have to offer at Amica Beechwood Village.

We invite you for lunch and a stroll in our beautiful gardens, 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.

On a sunny Sunday morning, I set out in search of a walk that would take my family somewhere we hadn’t explored before. The goal was simple – a short, scenic stroll to enjoy the changing seasons and a little local discovery close to home. We found exactly what we were looking for along the Brentwood Walkway, a gentle oceanside path that winds through Ravine Park and offers views of the Anglers Anchorage Marina.

We parked at the end of Marchant Road, near Grilse Lane, where the day began in the best possible way – with a stop at the Azure Pier Café. Having been introduced to this local café only the week before by a friend, I was eager to share it with my family. We ordered breakfast treats and tea,

choosing a table outside on the deck overlooking the pier. The sun was warm, and nearly everyone had opted for the outdoor seating to soak in the sun glinting off the water.

Fuelled by our tea and treats, we set off along the Brentwood Walkway. The path hugs the shoreline, offering glimpses of boats bobbing gently in the marina and the Saanich Inlet. It’s a short, mostly flat trail – perfect for families, casual walkers, and anyone looking to get a little fresh air without committing to a long walk.

We meandered through Ravine Park, where the path led us past benches where people sat quietly with their morning coffees, chatting with friends or simply enjoying the ocean

A Weekend Wander: The Brentwood Walkway

views. Dogs trotted happily alongside their owners, and every so often, a light breeze would carry the faint scent of saltwater and cedar.

The walk took us about 15 minutes each way, leading to the Delamere Access before we turned back. Though short, the trail offered a mix of coastal scenery and community charm – the kind of local spot that reminds you

THINGS TO NOTE

why it’s worth taking the time to explore close to home.

It’s the perfect outing for a relaxed weekend morning – a gentle walk, hot drink, ocean views, and that unmistakable feeling of contentment that comes from being outdoors together. I have no doubt we’ll be returning soon – perhaps next time with friends in tow to share this lovely discovery.

• Parking: Available at the end of Marchant Road near Grilse Lane.

• Café Stop : Azure Pier Café is open daily – perfect for breakfast, lunch or a cup of tea by the water.

• Dogs: Welcome on leash along the Brentwood Walkway.

• Best Time to Visit: Anytime you need a quick seaside escape.

Bid online on over 80 incredible items! All supporting our Enhancing Surgical Services campaign at Saanich Peninsula Hospital. Here are a few featured auction highlights!

BRENTWOOD BAY ESCAPE

Two nights stay, couples spa massage, and fine dining credit by the ocean. (Value $1,500)

COURT GEMS

Sip, Shop & Savor with gift cards and goodies from your local faves Mu et & Louisa, Hansell and Halkett and Farmer’s Daughter! (Value $700)

SILENT AUCTION SPONSORED BY

SKI MT. WASHINGTON

Two lift passes and a Country Grocer gift card for ski snacks. (Value $300)

NEORA SKINCARE BASKET

Day and night creams, vitamin C, and more for radiant skin. (Value $1,100)

LOCAL CARE Shop the SILENT AUCTION Support

BODACIOUS GIFT CARD + SCARF

EMPRESS GIN BOX

Distinctly Victoria, ideal for entertaining. (Value: $93)

THE NUTCRACKER BALLET + DINING

Style and comfort, perfect for fall. (Value: $125)

Holiday magic plus a gift card to Vista 18. (Value: $275)

Hurry

WUSTHOF CLASSIC IKON KNIFE - CHEF AND KNIFE BLOCK SET (8 INCH)

Premium craftsmanship for your kitchen provided by Mu et & Louisa. (Value: $225)

ends November 15th at 8:30pm!

Local PROBUS Seeks New Members

Calling all guys who are either retired or semiretired and looking for a social club that promotes fellowship, friendship and fun activities like golf, dining out and bridge.

The Saanich Peninsula PROBUS (professional business) club meets the first Thursday of each month at 10 a.m. at the Mary Winspear Centre. Each meeting features a guest speaker, followed by a coffee break that allows for social time amongst members and winding up with a short business meeting with reports and updates.

Past speakers include: Steve Nicole, president of the Victoria Air Museum. Steve gave a talk entitled: “Arrival of the Hawaii Mars: The Journey from Patricia Bay to the BC Aviation Museum.” On another occasion, Steve gave a talk about the history and current status of the Victoria Air Museum which was equally enjoyable.

Another speaker the Club hosted was retired Naval Captain Kenneth Watson, Maritime Simulation Specialist and manager of the naval ship bridge simulator at the naval base in Esquimalt.

Ron Devion gave a talk titled “The Media – Its Power, Its Influence, Its Crisis.” Ron worked for the Canadian Broadcasting Corporation for 40 years in a wide-ranging variety of staff and contract positions.

Astronomer and physicist

John McDonald gave a riveting talk to members entitled "Planets, Planets Everywhere.” John noted: “We live on a wonderful planet that orbits the sun and until recently we only knew about the sun’s seven other planets. Astronomers now know that virtually every star has planets, some of which could support life. In his talk he explained how planets are formed and what we are learning about them.” John is a physicist, a Fellow of the Institute of Physics (UK) and Professor Emeritus at the University of Alberta.

A future monthly speaker in 2026, Robert Forbes, will discuss his well-researched book, Angel in a Spitfire , Canada’s Exceptional and Nearly Forgotten Fighter Leader, Wing Commander Lloyd V. Chadburn.

The role of a PROBUS club is to stimulate thought, interest and participation in activities at a time in life when it is easy to become complacent. So, if our Saanich Peninsula PROBUS club for retired or semi-retired guys sounds like something you might want to be a part of, and you want to be considered for membership, just send an email to current president, Randy Mains, at rpmsurfer@ yahoo.com He’d love to hear from you.

Note: For those looking for a coed PROBUS club in Sidney, visit www.probussidneybc.ca.

WORDS SAANICH PENINSULA PROBUS

When I drove into a hidden townhouse community in Deep Cove, I felt like I was entering a forested campground. Its narrow, curving road is treed on both sides. The townhouses are strategically placed in groups of three, and surrounded by tall trees, bushes and ferns, ensuring their privacy. It was raining with the clouds barely hanging above the trees, and that added to the campground feeling.

Jan and Mike are thrilled with their three-bedroom, 2,200 square-foot home in this warm and friendly community. Soon after purchasing it, they mapped out a thoughtful renovation plan and moved into the nowclosed Cedarwood Inn while the work began. Starting in the entryway, visitors are welcomed by a bright space with pot lights and fresh paint. The new flooring is a luxury plank laminate, designed to withstand the daily activity of their two huge dogs, Frankie and Charlie. Jan describes the flooring as "bombproof," saying it is easy to clean and has held up well to sliding claws, toys, and the often-tipped water bowl – a fun game? It's easy to see that the dogs rule in this household: their mug shots hang on the entry wall, and a wooden sign forewarns guests "Wet Kisses, Cold Noses, Wagging Tails."

Moving into the living room, an overstuffed leather couch and chair with an ottoman, a handsome wool area rug, artwork and a blanket ladder

with Jan's family tartan from Scotland combine to create a personal and comfy country vibe. While on a family trip to Tofino, Mike was inspired by the common room of the Middle Beach Lodge and said he would like to create that same feeling in their new living room. Of course, a lodge needs a fireplace, and here the propane fireplace provides a lovely warm focus with its impressive rock surround. Above it, the mantel was handcrafted from locallysourced North Saanich maple, which adds a personal and regional touch.

To complete the theme, beams were added to the ceiling along with a black farmhouse-style chandelier. Light flows in from triangular windows above the fireplace and a large picture window next to the sliding glass doors that lead out to the deck. All that can be seen from the windows is greenery – beautiful shades and textures of green that are enhanced by the rain and the red-leafed maple tree – all adding to that lovely campground feeling.

The galley-shaped kitchen was completely renovated, and that included removing a wall, an interior window and a swing door. Everything from the floor to the quartz countertops, cabinets with undermount lighting, pot filler and appliances is new. The microwave conveniently slides out on a lower shelf, which is much safer than having it at a higher level. The electric stove features “smart” technology and has advanced functions like air fry, convection cooking, a warming drawer, and a bread proofer. "It has a million things," says Jan. "I haven't quite figured it all out – it's Jan proof!"

The dining area connects easily to the rest of the main floor. Marketplace finds, including chairs sourced just down the street, add charm and practicality to the space. Shelving was added facing the second seating area to highlight personal decorative items. Jan says that she loves the view from this room because there is a constant flutter of birds; she watches

them eating the berries or having a drink and bath in the fountain. "I just love sitting here, because they are so close to me. I feel so fortunate to have this piece of nature right here."

Jan's office came with a Murphy bed on one wall. It also had pink wallpaper, which was removed. The cabinet in the room came from her father's home. Shelves display family keepsakes, heirlooms and framed photographs that tell the story of their Scottish heritage, past travels, and loved ones no longer present. The bathroom on the main floor is affectionately known as the "WestJet" bathroom due to its compact size. Its nickname comes from its resemblance to airplane restrooms, a detail that amuses guests.

On the wall leading to the upper level hangs a stunning photograph by Jan that captures an ancient olive tree in all its gnarled resilience – a living monument to the passage of time. Jan added the Italian words to the photo – "Una lunga storia d'amore" – which translates to "a

long love story." The stairway to the upper floor has new carpeting, a curved wooden handrail and lighting that can be controlled by an app. In the main bedroom, skylights were added to increase the amount of natural light. A feature wall is painted a deep sage green, and another beautiful photograph taken by Jan while travelling in Tuscany hangs on the opposite wall.

Modern features in the main bathroom, renovated by Tower Kitchens & Millwork, include a heated floor, double sinks, a bidet toilet and motionactivated lighting under the vanity and digital mirrors. This type of mirror can reduce the need for overhead lighting. A zero-entry threshold makes access to the shower easy. The shower wall tiles are patterned with ferns that bring to mind the forest ferns outside. Hayley Carpenter (owner and interior

designer at Viane Designs) helped Jan choose the tiles and also assisted with the paint selection.

Outside, teamwork from committed volunteers helps maintain the grounds and four kilometres of walking trails that wind through this lovely 75-acre property. Birds chirp, owls call from the forest, deer wander through the grounds, and ducks paddle peacefully in the nearby pond, a favourite destination for walks.

Going through a renovation can be time-consuming, expensive, and take much longer than expected, and it can sometimes be overwhelming when so many decisions have to be made. This one turned out exceptionally well, and Jan and Mike have transformed their home into what they love – a warm and cozy retreat surrounded by nature.

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.

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!

BRAND NEW HOME IN BRENTWOOD BAY

$1,599,900

MARIANN ABRAM*

250.884.6796

mariann@mariannabram.com

(*personal real estate corp)

6983 Hagan Rd. Brand new 2,400+ sq ft 4BD/4BA home with legal 1BR suite, gourmet kitchen, heat pump, gas fireplace, heated floors, and spa-like primary ensuite. Fully landscaped and irrigated yard. In a quiet family communityjust steps to parks, beaches, and Brentwood Bay shops.

MLS#1010871

To feature your ad in next issue's

SUNNY

ARDMORE RETREAT

$2,185,000

MARIANN ABRAM*

250.884.6796

mariann@mariannabram.com (*personal real estate corp)

GLENHEIGHTS

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

AT WESTHILLS - VIEWS OF LANGFORD

$609,000

MARIANN ABRAM*

250.884.6796

LAKE

mariann@mariannabram.com (*personal real estate corp)

PRIVATE 1-ACRE 4BR FAMILY HOME

$1,380,000

MARIANN ABRAM*

250.884.6796

mariann@mariannabram.com

(*personal real estate corp)

2BD/2BA with sweeping, unobstructed views of Langford Lake and Skirt Mountain from your living room and the large covered private deck. 9’ ceilings, granite counters, SS appliances, A/C, geothermal in-floor heating with secure parking and storage. Steps from parks, trails, and amenities blending tranquility and convenience.

MLS#1016151

Tucked away on a quiet cul-de-sac backing onto municipal parkland. Updated and light-filled kitchen with SS appliances, fully renovated bathrooms with heated tile floors. Spacious living room, wraparound large deck and wood fireplace, separate Family room with wood stove. DB car garage with RV/Boat parking.

MLS#1017200

A HOME THAT TRULY FITS

$1,099,900

KAREN DINNIE-SMYTH*

250.655.0608

Dinnie Smyth | McMahon | Real Estate Group

(*personal real estate corp)

karendinnie-smyth.com

MODERN DEEP COVE RANCHER

$2,398,000

MARILYN BALL

250.818.6489

victoriawaterfronts.com

SAANICH INLET VIEW ESTATE

$3,998,000

MARILYN BALL

250.818.6489

victoriawaterfronts.com

6743 Wendonna Pl, Brentwood Bay. Comfort and flexibility define this updated home in a quiet, family-friendly neighbourhood. Three bedrooms & office up with a 1-bedroom & den suite down offering space for family or guests. Ample off street parking, nearby parks, trails, and Butchart Gardens, this home makes everyday living effortlessly enjoyable.

MLS#1015669

Experience modern West Coast living in this elegant 2021-built Deep Cove Rancher, offering seamless indoor-outdoor flow and sun-filled spaces. Enjoy an eco-sensitive lifestyle with low-maintenance landscaping on a half-acre lot that offers privacy and a connection to nature.

MLS#1015070

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.

MLS#1014180

EASY LIVING STARTS HERE!

$798,900

KAREN DINNIE-SMYTH*

250.655.0608

Dinnie Smyth | McMahon | Real Estate Group

(*personal real estate corp)

karendinnie-smyth.com

SUNNY SLOPES 5 ACRE FARM

$2,900,000

MARILYN BALL

250.818.6489 victoriawaterfronts.com

EPITOME OF EXECUTIVE LIVING

$2,678,000

MARILYN BALL

250.818.6489

victoriawaterfronts.com

#2 - 2034 Weiler Ave, Sidney. Beautifully updated one-level home with 2 bedrooms plus a den, bright modern kitchen, and cozy living room with new gas fireplace. Features include a large mudroom, full and 2-piece baths, fenced low-maintenance yard, and off-street parking – perfect for young couples or those looking to downsize in comfort.

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

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#1015431

MODERN TOP FLOOR CONDO

$424,900

BRENT MCMAHON*

250.418.5391

Dinnie Smyth | McMahon | Real Estate Group

(*personal real estate corp)

brentmcmahon@gmail.com

1967 Polo Park Court

$869,000

NICOLE BURGESS

250.384.8124

nicole@nicoleburgess.com

#522-515 Chatham St. Ironworks unit with 9ft ceilings and steps from Downtown Victoria’s restaurants and Inner Harbour. This 1BR, 1BA unit offers nearly 500 sqft, floor-to-ceiling windows, in suite laundry and sleek linear kitchen with twotone cabinetry. Includes parking, storage and remaining warranty. A bright, stylish home or smart investment. MLS#1017356

In the heart of Saanichton, just steps to Village shopping, on a quiet street, this 3Bdr/3Bth, 1765sf townhome is an EndUnit, has a Main Level Primary BDR, heat-pump, double garage, private patio with garden, & allows 2 pets! The kitchen has stone countertops plus recently added maple cabinets, all BTHs are updated, recent new floors & freshly painted throughout.

MLS# 1015108

feature your ad

OCEAN AND MOUNTAIN VIEWS!

$959,000

INGRID JARISZ*

250.385.2033

(*personal real estate corp)

DISCOVER YOUR VERY OWN SANCTUARY

$2,400,000

INGRID JARISZ*

250.385.2033

(*personal real estate corp)

MATTICK'S WOOD!

$1,598,000

INGRID JARISZ*

250.385.2033

(*personal real estate corp)

Experience Island living at THE HARO in prestigious CORDOVA BAY. This near-new, meticulously maintained condo offers spacious 2BD, 2BA + Den layout with ocean and mountain views, high-end finishes, a modern upscale design plus A/C, EV charging & underground parking. The perfect blend of coastal charm and urban convenience.

MLS#1017249

In the heart of Mount Newton Valley, this European styled home has exposed beams, vaulted ceilings, stone fireplace & leaded French doors. Custom built with 4 beds/4 baths and approx. 3,562sqft. Lovingly maintained & landscaped gardens surround this home, and the balance of the nearly 5 acres is an expansive nature retreat.

MLS#1007891

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

VICTORIA'S BEST VIEWS & LIFESTYLE

$1,798,000

INGRID JARISZ*

250.385.2033

(*personal

PERCHED ATOP CORDOVA RIDGE

$1,250,000

INGRID JARISZ*

250.385.2033

Overlooking world-class golf at Cordova Bay, sandy beaches, walking/biking trails, shops at Mattick's Farm all nearby. JAWL DEV. concrete/steel building is sought-after with spectacular views, amazing layout, quality finishing and perfect positioning. Meticulously maintained 2BD, 2BA, 1,856sf.

MLS#1013296

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# 1012737

WECOME TO DREAMCATCHER

$1,197,000

INGRID JARISZ*

250.385.2033

(*personal real estate corp)

West Coast lifestyle, natural beauty & sheer artistic luxury awaits! Ruxton Island offers remote privacy, waterfront living & only a short boat ride from Nanaimo. Enjoy all conveniences of living off-grid in this uniquely designed home. Easy access to your foreshore 48ft welded aluminum ramp & 20ft dock.

MLS#1005198

SAANICH PENINSULA LIFESTYLE PHOTOGRAPHER

Peninsula Celebrations Society Fall Lineup

WORDS KEITH HICKIE

The Peninsula Celebrations Society (PCS) is a volunteerdriven, non-profit organization dedicated to creating community connections and traditions through free, familyoriented events in Sidney and across the Saanich Peninsula.

From parades and concerts to seasonal festivities, PCS brings residents and visitors together in the spirit of celebration and community pride.

Looking for a chance to get involved? Volunteering is one of the most meaningful ways to strengthen a community, but it’s about more than lending a hand. It’s about building connections, creating shared experiences, and shaping the spirit of the place we call home. Local volunteering also fosters a powerful sense of belonging. When people get involved, they meet neighbours, form friendships and discover new ways to make a difference. These connections help build a stronger, more resilient community – one where people look out for each other and take pride in where they live.

PCS is now gearing up for an exciting season of community celebrations and inviting everyone to join in the fun. With four major events fast approaching, there are plenty of opportunities to participate and help bring community cheer to the Saanich Peninsula.

On October 31, between 4:30 and 6 p.m., downtown Sidney will transform into a Halloween wonderland for the 11th annual Treat Street Halloween Spooktacular! Little

ghosts, goblins and princesses are invited to enjoy a safe, family-friendly trick-or-treating event along Beacon Avenue. Local businesses and treat stations will be handing out goodies, creating a magical and memorable time for families across the Peninsula.

Then, on December 7 at 5 p.m., we kick off the holiday season with the PCS’s annual Sparkles Holiday Parade along Beacon Avenue. This year’s theme, “Peace and Goodwill,” will see the street filled with festive lights, holiday music and community spirit. Parade registration is now open! Details and registration are available at www.peninsulacelebrations. org/events .

We continue our holiday celebrations on December 13 (11 a.m. and 2 p.m.) with our annual “Photos with Santa” event. Come down to Cameron Rose at 2506 Beacon Avenue and celebrate the season with a free family photo opportunity. Bring your camera, your loved ones, and even your pets, for a memorable photo with Santa.

Start the new year with a splash! Our very own Polar Bear Swim will take place on January 1, 2026 at 12 p.m. Join fellow hardy Islanders at Glass Beach (accessed via the beach path at the end of Beacon Avenue) for a refreshing way to ring in 2026 Island-style!

For more information on all PCS events and volunteer opportunities, visit www. peninsulacelebrations.org.

Seaside Guide: What to See & Where to Be

NOVEMBER 2025

Open House at The Centre For Active Living 50+

SATURDAY, NOVEMBER 15TH 2-4PM

Come to The Centre for Active Living 50+ and see why it is so important to the lives of its 290+ members. There will be tables set up with displays, knowledgeable members to answer questions, live demonstrations, entertainment and refreshments. Volunteers will also be available to give tours and show off this special place.

The Centre offers something for everyone, with a schedule of 25+ activities and programs that happen weekly and monthly. There are fitness and wellness programs, a wide selection of games, arts and crafts, social activities, and educational and inspirational speakers, presentations and talks.

Membership is only $60 for the year and allows you to attend a regularly scheduled activity or program. The Centre is located at 1229 Clarke Road, Brentwood Bay. For more information please visit www.cssca.ca.

NOVEMBER 2ND 7PM

Jazz Vespers Features David Vest

ST. JOHN’S UNITED CHURCH 10990 WEST SAANICH ROAD, NORTH SAANICH

Legendary blues pianist David Vest will be joined by drummer Damian Graham and bassist Ryan Tandy for an evening of Jazz Vespers. Well respected as a blues and boogie-woogie player, Vest is equally comfortable playing jazz and country blues ballads. Suggested offering $20. 250-656-0875

TUESDAYS, NOVEMBER 4TH – DECEMBER 16TH 6-7:30PM

Adult Yoga & Mindfulness

MCTAVISH ACADEMY OF ART 1720 MCTAVISH ROAD, NORTH SAANICH

The Iyengar Method of yoga is characterized by an alert practice, precise direction, alignment and depth. Emphasis is placed on meditation in action in the practice of asana (poses), while incorporating the science of sequencing and timing. The emphasis in teaching and in practice is on strength, stamina, balance, flexibility and agility through the alignment of the body and precision in movement. Health, well-being, peace of mind and relaxation are benefits achieved through this the study and practice of yoga. Cost $122. www.mctavishacademy.ca

NOVEMBER 7TH – 13TH 10AM-4PM Studio 30 Art Show

ART SEA GALLERY 9565 FIFTH STREET, SIDNEY

Artists Reception November 8 from 1-3 p.m. Original artwork such as paintings and drawings in a variety of media. Free admission. 250-656-7400; www.artsea.ca

NOVEMBER 7TH 12-5PM & NOVEMBER 8TH 10AM-4PM Victoria Quilters’ Guild Christmas Market 2025

EMMANUEL BAPTIST CHURCH 2121 CEDAR HILL X ROAD, VICTORIA

Fabulous textile creations and quilts. Admission $5 (valid for both days). Credit cards/debit/cash accepted. 250-361-8321

NOVEMBER 9TH 2PM

A Concert of Remembrance & a Tribute to Canada

MARY WINSPEAR CENTRE 2243 BEACON AVENUE, SIDNEY

The Sidney Concert Band presents a concert of remembrance, honouring the women and men who served our country both past and present. Tickets can be purchased online at www.marywinspear.ca or by calling the box office at 250-656-0275

NOVEMBER 11TH 10:30AM

Sidney Remembrance Day Parade & Ceremony

The traditional Remembrance Day Parade will proceed at 10:30 a.m. from the Mary Winspear Centre, along Beacon Avenue and Second Street, to the Cenotaph on Sidney Avenue. The Service of Remembrance for the Fallen will commence at 10:50 a.m. A Fly Past is planned during the two-minute silence at 11 a.m. For more information call 250-656-2428 or visit https://peninsulalegion.ca.

NOVEMBER 13TH 6-9PM

Paint & Cider Night

SEA CIDER FARM & CIDER HOUSE 2487 MOUNT SAINT MICHAEL ROAD, SAANICHTON

Unwind, sip, and paint with us! Explore your creativity and join us for an unforgettable evening of art and cider at Sea Cider. Local artist Kelsie Gibson will be your guide; whether you’re a seasoned painter or just starting, Kelsie will lead you through each step to create your masterpiece. The group will be painting “Northern Night.” $65 per person. www.seacider.ca/event/

NOVEMBER 15TH 2-4PM

Stephanie Greaves & Attila Fias

ST PAUL'S UNITED CHURCH 2410 MALAVIEW AVENUE, SIDNEY

Stephanie will be performing with pianist extraordinaire, Attila Fias. There will be music from all popular genres, jazz, pop and country. $25 per person. Children under 12 years free. www.stpaulsunitedbc.com/concerts

NOVEMBER 15TH 9AM-2PM

SPH Auxiliary Annual Bazaar & Craft Fair

MARY WINSPEAR CENTRE 2243 BEACON AVENUE, SIDNEY

Art table, Christmas crafts and ornaments, hand made hats, scarves, mittens, baby cloths, Afghans, baking, jams, jellies. Admission by donation. www.sphaux.com

NOVEMBER 15TH 2PM

Sidney and Peninsula Literary Society – Author Eve Lazarus

BC AVIATION MUSEUM 1910 NORSEMAN ROAD, NORTH SAANICH

Eve will read from and talk about her latest book: Beneath Dark Waters: The Legacy of the Empress of Ireland Shipwreck. Tickets are $15 and will be available at Tanner's Books. www.sidneyliteraryfestival.ca

NOVEMBER 21ST 2PM

CSSCA Speakers’ Series: Dr. Rennie Warburton

THE CENTRE FOR ACTIVE LIVING 50+ 1229 CLARKE ROAD, BRENTWOOD BAY

Dr. Rennie Warburton will speak on the interesting topic of “Indigenous Responses to Calls for Reconciliation in Canada.” Members $2; non-members $5. Tea/coffee $1. Open to the public. www.cssca.ca

NOVEMBER 23RD 2-4PM Aerie Trio

CENTRAL SAANICH UNITED CHURCH

7180 EAST SAANICH ROAD, SAANICHTON

Aerie Trio will bring the sounds of flute, cello and piano to the beautiful and historic Central Saanich United Church as part of the church’s Musical Melange series. There will be music by well-known classical composers, as well as fresh, new music, including pieces that will be on their upcoming CD, to be released in February. www.augmentedtriopromotions.com

NOVEMBER 23RD 2:30PM Brentwood Scottish Country Dance Group Ceilidh

CENTRE FOR ACTIVE LIVING 50+ 1229 CLARKE ROAD, BRENTWOOD BAY

Come dance or just sit and watch! All dances are called and easy. Refreshments following dance. $5 per person or $10 for a family. www.cssca.ca

NOVEMBER 25TH 2PM

CFUW Speaker Series: Anna Kobb

MARY WINSPEAR CENTRE ROOM 2, 2243 BEACON AVE, SIDNEY

Community Partnerships Officer Dr. Kobb holds a PhD in Biomedical Engineering and has industry experience in R&D/Quality. At UVic, she develops, builds and maintains relationships between the faculty and the broader community. Her talk will focus on the importance of community in her own journey through Engineering. Dr. Kobb has hosted the University's event that commemorates the National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women. The meeting is free to members and their guests; $10 for non-members. For more information, visit www.cfuwsaanichpeninsula.org

ONGOING EVENTS

SEVENTH DAY ADVENTIST CHURCH MONDAYS | 10AM-12PM

Saanich Peninsula Stroke Recovery Association Communication Group

10-11am: Social time – coffee/tea/cookies. 11am-12pm: Individual groups for:

• those requiring speech improvement led by a Speech Language Pathologist

• those with physical disabilities led by a Kinesiologist

• caregivers, led by an experienced convenor www.spstrokerecovery.org

PEACE LUTHERAN CHURCH MONDAY REHEARSALS | 7-9PM

Sidney Concert Band

A proud part of the Peninsula vibrant arts scene in its 38th season, this all-ages ensemble welcomes newcomers with at least three years’ experience on your instrument. Musicians are asked to arrive at least 15 minutes early for rehearsal with your instrument and music stand. Percussion instruments are provided, but bring your sticks. Most importantly, bring a smile and get ready to have fun. Visit www.sidneyconcertband.ca.

VIRTUAL TUESDAYS | 10-11AM

Seniors Speak Toastmasters

Saanich Peninsula Toastmasters offers a great way to speak and socialize from the comfort of your home. For details about this online opportunity, email mastermotivators4671@gmail.com with the subject line: Seniors Toastmasters. Visit https://1288.toastmastersclubs.org

BEACON BREWING FIRST & THIRD TUESDAYS | 2-4PM

The Socrates Café

Do you enjoy philosophy and exploring a variety of topics and perspectives with others? The Socrates Café, part of a global movement designed to inspire curiosity, nurture self-discovery and grassroots democracy, invites you to drop by to listen, share your thoughts and meet new people.

CENTRE FOR ACTIVE LIVING 50+ FIRST & THIRD WEDNESDAYS | 1-4PM

Afternoon Bingo

These everyone welcome games take place in the lower hall, next to the public library. The third Wednesday features hot dogs and pop for sale starting at noon.

2ND THURSDAY | 2-3:30PM

EMAIL SEASIDEGUIDE@SEASIDEMAGAZINE.CA

SUBMISSION DEADLINE 1ST OF THE PREVIOUS MONTH (EG NOVEMBER 1 FOR DECEMBER ISSUE EVENTS)

This peer support group is open to all caregivers. Please register at https://form.jotform.com/230336162808251 or email cgsupport@familycaregiversbc.ca.

Nov 8 - vs. Saanich Predators @ 7:30pm

Nov 8 - vs. Saanich Predators @ 7:30pm

Nov 14 - vs. Port Alberni Bombers @ 7:30pm

Nov 14 - vs. Port Alberni Bombers @ 7:30pm

Nov 21 - vs. Victoria Cougars @ 7:30pm

Nov 21 - vs. Victoria Cougars @ 7:30pm

Nov 28 - vs. Kerry Park Islanders @ 7:30pm

Nov 28 - vs. Kerry Park Islanders @ 7:30pm

Dec 12 - vs. Saanich Predators @ 7:30pm

Find our schedule here: Find our schedule here: u p c om i n g g a m e s : upcoming games:

Dec 12 - vs. Saanich Predators @ 7:30pm

KEEP 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.

What the pig put on his dry skin!

How to Play: Unscramble each of the clue words. Take the letters that appear in boxes and unscramble them to solve the final message.

This jumble was created by The Blue Sheet Club, a group of brain injury survivors. The Cridge Centre for the Family's Brain Injury Services provides independent housing with support for survivors of brain injury. Through the development of support groups like The Blue Sheet Club, we strive to provide opportunities for personal development and reintegration in the community. Creating Word Jumbles are a great way to improve cognitive functioning. Plus they're fun too! Enjoy!

notify • amaze • expert • kinky Answer: oink-ment -

JUMBLE SOLUTIONS

SEASIDE STORIES

Last Word

AllisonSmith

Irecently met three friends for dinner. These are women I have known since our children went to preschool together; the kids are now 11. We try and get together a few times a year to catch up; if we don’t make the effort to do so, our long-term friendships would be at risk of falling by the wayside as most of our kids are no longer connected through school or sports.

The dinners always fly by as we fill each other in on what’s going on in our lives, but, as is usually the case with women our age, the talk generally revolves around our children’s lives more so than what’s going in our own. This seems to be the way with mothers of school-age children. Out of necessity, we put ourselves aside to make way for the busy-ness (and business!) of parenthood. School pickup and dropoff, sports schedules and other extracurricular activities, meal planning and running a household all must take priority – too often, I think we lose the essence of "us" when "mom" has to take the forefront.

I'm not complaining; I love being a mom. But as the conversation swirled around us, I realized that beyond discussing what is going on in my daughter's life, I didn't have much to share about myself. As my child grows up and becomes more self sufficient, the idea of having more time – for just me! – is difficult to fathom.

What did I do with all my free time, before I became a parent? Do those interests still hold my attention, or am I ready to try something new? My love of reading is certainly still strong, and I am always happy crafting, but as I near middle age, perhaps I'm ready for something different ... something more fulfilling.

In this month's Meet Your Neighbours column (pg 38), long-time volunteer Fay Chisholm shares that when she was a young woman, she was told that "the only right you have is the right to be useful." A lifetime of volunteering has shown that she took that central idea to heart, and it still holds true: everyone should try and be useful, when they're able, whether it be to their neighbours, children, local organizations ... the options are truly endless for those who want to help. And as my time looks to be opening up in the not-so-distant future, I think I'm ready to be one of them.

Allison Smith, Editor-in-Chief

LEST WE FORGET

As November 11 approaches, we take a moment to reflect on the profound sacrifices made by our veterans and their families. Remembrance Day is a time for us to honour those who have bravely served our country, defending the freedoms we cherish today. Those individuals left their homes and loved ones to face unimaginable challenges. Their dedication and resilience shaped Canada and continue to inspire us.

At Sidney All Care Residence, we are committed to celebrating our veterans. On November 11, our residents will gather to share their stories. Together, we will remember not only the bravery of our veterans but also the love and sacrifice of their families. Their legacy lives on in our hearts and our actions.

We remember. We honour. We are grateful.