YOUR PENINSULA VOICE
OCTOBER 2026
FARMHUB
Farm to Table in a Click! WEST COAST GARDEN
Time For Garlic
THE PROFESSIONALS A LITTLE FRICTION
Boundaries, Not Barriers
A Local Spotlight
Advertorial content
We’re growing a better community, one grant at a time.
Finding Confidence, Connection and Belonging For the Saanich Peninsula Community Foundation, supporting local organizations means helping address real needs in our community and helping vulnerable youth thrive. That is why we are proud to support Take a Hike Foundation with a $5,000 grant for its Saanich Program. For young people who struggle in traditional school environments, learning does not always happen best inside a classroom. Take a Hike combines education, mental health support, and land-based learning to help youth discover their strengths and develop the tools they need to navigate life’s challenges. This past May, local youth put those skills into practice during a three-day, two-night trip to Montague Harbour on Galiano Island. For Take a Hike, time outdoors is much more than an adventure. Being on the land and water gives youth opportunities to navigate challenges, build relationships, develop coping skills, and reflect on their experiences. These are skills that can carry into everyday life long after the trip is over. The learning begins well before the backpacks are packed. Take a Hike’s mental health clinicians prepare youth for overnight experiences, using maps and photos to help reduce anxiety and
Some of the youth participants at the Take a Hike trip to Montague Harbour on Galiano Island.
make the unfamiliar feel manageable. Staff also work with youth on practical skills such as setting up tents, tying knots, packing, and planning meals. Returning participants are encouraged to support newer youth, creating opportunities for peer connection and leadership. On Galiano Island, that preparation paid off. Youth who had participated in previous trips confidently stepped in to help others set up their tents. In fact, they were so capable that the staff team felt they weren’t needed at all. Perhaps the greatest measure of
success is how the experience stays with youth. As one participant shared: “Every time I smell a campfire I think of all the memories I’ve had being outside, and learning outside. The things I learn outside usually stick. The more time I’m off my phone, the more memory I have.” Through the generosity of our donors, SPCF is proud to support opportunities that help local youth discover their strengths, build meaningful connections, and experience the confidence that comes from trying something new.
We’re growing a better community, one grant at a time. As an endowment-based foundation, we invest donor contributions permanently and use the income they generate to support Saanich Peninsula charity and non-profits organizations. YOUR COMMUNITY YOUR GIFT • YOUR LEGACY
info@sp-cf.ca | sp-cf.ca
Through our grants program, we fund initiatives that benefit peninsula residents — in health and social services, arts and culture, education, conservation, and recreation — all the things that help grow a better community for all of us.
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TOP Stories
OCTOBER 2026
In This Issue
12 The Professionals Shining a Spotlight on Our Local Entrepreneurs
94.
27 A Little Friction The Fine Balance of Working from Home 50 Lorna Crozier Prolific Poet of the Peninsula
85.
22. 50. LIVING
STORIES 6
First Word
27 A Little Friction
10
Sidney Icon Carmel Graham
31
Numerology for Business
12
Building the Exceptional
41
The Impact of Chinese EV's
22 Peninsula Voices
17
Four Conversations
47 Inside Out
44 Globehopping
53 Everyday Mental Health
50 Arts Scene
65 The Natural Path
59 Charity Connections
71
62 Off the Land
The Golden Years
74 West Coast Garden
68 New & Noteworthy
77 In Fashion
85 Trade Student Spotlight
79 Get Out!
110 Last Word
89 Screen Scene
FLAVOUR
90 Well Read 93 Growing Bananas in Canada 94 Homes 104 CRD Glass Guidelines 108 Managing Lifelong Memories 111 Jumble
38 Off the Vine 56 From the Kitchen
EVENTS
56. ON THE COVER LOCAL FIRST NATIONS MEMBER, ENTREPRENEUR & PENINSULA GALLERY PARTNER MITCHELL JONES PHOTO JANIS JEAN
105 Seaside Guide Seaside | OCTOBER 2026 | 5
SEASIDE STORIES First Word OWNER / EDITOR IN CHIEF ALLISON SMITH 250.813.1745 allison@seasidemagazine.ca PUBLISHER / FOUNDER SUE HODGSON 250.516.6489 seasidesuesidney@gmail.com CREATIVE DIRECTOR LEAH-ANNE MACLEOD leahanne@seasidemagazine.ca
e u S on s g d o H
EDITORIAL DIRECTOR TABATHA GOLAT tabatha@seasidemagazine.ca SALES ACCOUNT MANAGER KATHERINE KJAER katherine@seasidemagazine.ca STAFF PHOTOGRAPHERS JANIS JEAN janisjean100@gmail.com SARAH HARTLEY sarahhartleyphotography@gmail.com AMBER WAHL windgypsyphotography@gmail.com
C
anadian Small Business Week is October 18 to 24, and every year Seaside supports local businesses with a very special feature (pg 12) that showcases how wonderful our community really is. This year, I’ve been thinking about “career” a little differently. I’ve been thinking about my two adult children.
My son Lucas is now in his second year of teaching. Watching him step into a classroom, take on the responsibility of educating young people and find his own way in a profession he cares about has made me incredibly proud. There is something special about seeing your child discover what they are meant to do – and then have the courage to commit to it. My daughter Eva has taken a very different path. She is playing professional volleyball in Europe, thousands of kilometres from home, pursuing something she has worked toward for years. Her “office” changes from country to country, her days are filled with training, travel and competition, and her career looks nothing like what I might have imagined when she was little. In both of them, I see something remarkably similar. They have each chosen a path of their own. We often talk about careers in terms of businesses, paychecks, titles and success. But perhaps a career is simply the thing we choose to pour our time, energy and heart into. It can be a classroom, a volleyball court, a small business a trade, a creative passion ... or something we haven't even discovered yet. As a parent, I’ve learned that one of the greatest joys is not choosing the path for your children, but watching them find it for themselves. I’ll certainly be supporting local businesses. But I’ll also be celebrating something bigger: people who have found their purpose and are brave enough to follow it. And I couldn’t be prouder of the two people I get to call my children. Seaside Sue, Publisher & Founder Clothing provided and styled by Sidney Pier & Path. PHOTO JANIS JEAN
CO-OWNER JAMES LAURIE 250.888.0667 P.O. BOX 324 BRENTWOOD BAY, B.C. V8M 1R3 www.seasidemagazine.ca Seaside Magazine is printed by Dollco Print Solutions Group. 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.
FEATURED CONTRIBUTORS
2026/27 SEASON L I V E AT T H E R O YA L T H E AT R E
JO BARNES
VERDI
IL TROVATORE
Pages 50 & 62 Some people can identify the problem and articulate the answer. Others can beautifully capture an image so others can see and feel it. Some advocate with compassion as a voice for the voiceless. This month’s interviews highlighted for me how words can carry great impact.
REUBEN BUTTERFIELD Page 12 Some businesses disappear into the day, while others become part of someone’s story. I get to see that difference every day in my work with small businesses and organizations. This short piece looks at the care behind those moments, and what they help build here, together.
PHIL DOUBLET Page 17 I have watched families inherit a business nobody planned to hand them. The hardest part is never the numbers; it is the conversations that were never had. Writing this reminded me that the four hardest of those cost nothing. Take an afternoon, and change everything.
OCTOBER 16-24, 2026 HEIDI HACKMAN Page 85 Working in SD63 offers me the opportunity to witness the impact of personalized education every day. Staff are dedicated to creating meaningful plans that help students achieve their goals. This month's article showcases three students who earned the same credential through three very different pathways.
A tale of love, obsession, and revenge. Il trovatore is a true grand opera, full of political intrigue, mistaken identity, love, revenge, obsession, and onstage battles! – Brenna Corner, Artistic Director, Pacific Opera Victoria
TICKETS START AT
$ 37.50
Contributors: Jo Barnes, Jacquie Beland, Reuben Butterfield, June Murray Dagnall, Ken Dinnadge, Phil Doublet, Samantha Fex, Kelly Finerty, Kirsten Foss, M. Honoré France, Cara Gibson, Sherrin Griffin, Heidi Hackman, Jesse Holth, Richard Hope, Natasha Jackson, Tasleem Jessani, Jackie LaPlante, Leah-Anne MacLeod, Pamela Martin, Lauren McKimm, Joan Saunders, Marita Schauch, Aisling Smyth, Stephanie Staples, Shelly Tice, Stacey Toews, Viola Van de Ruyt
pacificopera.ca | 250.385.0222
Seaside | OCTOBER 2026 | 7
Shop local. Visit Mattick’s Farm in the heart of Cordova Bay. Discover locally owned boutiques, specialty shops, services, and welcoming places to enjoy coffee, tea, breakfast, or lunch at Mattick’s Farm. Whether you're searching for the perfect gift, the latest seasonal fashion, everyday essentials, or a relaxing break, every visit supports the local businesses that make Mattick’s Farm so special. Open Monday to Saturday 10-5:30 & Sundays 11-5 5325 Cordova Bay Rd, Victoria, BC matticksfarm.com
T h e Sh o p s A t Ma t t ic k’ s Fa rm
Adrienne's Restaurant & Tea Garden
Cordova Bay Optometry
Cordova Hair & Barbershop
House of Hathor
Lily Pad Lingerie
Liquor Plus
Market Collective
Mattick’s Mini Golf
Moden Boutique
Mattick’s Pharmacy Coming Soon!
Paper Chain
Pure Day Spa
Red Barn Market
The Gallery at Mattick's Farm
Waterlily Shoes
SEASIDE STORIES
Carmel Graham
Sidney Icon Serving Coiffed Cinematic Styles Sitting down for coffee with Carmel Graham, a Sidney woman who has risen to the top of key hairstyling for film and TV over the past decade, felt like winning a movie lover’s lottery.
WORDS KELLY FINERTY PHOTO WIND GYPSY PHOTOGRAPHY
Carmel’s Internet Movie Database (IMDb) outlines her impressive work on 30+ professional film productions since 2016, so you can imagine the hours we could have gushed about her love for film and the exuberance she feels collaborating with creatives to bring scripted visions to life on big and small screens around the globe. How Carmel reached this act in her film career is a movie I’d love to see, but for now, dear reader, an ink-on-paper version will have to do. As a creative child, Carmel always knew she wanted to be a hairstylist. Growing up in Sidney, a popular filming location for several national and international productions, it was always her dream to be part of the make-believe. This dream would come true in 2016, when Carmel jumped on an opportunity to fly to Los Angeles for a three-day
10 | OCTOBER 2026 | Seaside
new product line course, learning how to train stylists. “Surprisingly, there were very few Canadians at the event,” recalls Carmel. “The attendance was massive, with stylists from all across North America.” A surprising takeaway from Carmel’s L.A. experience was her rank as a top-tier stylist; her skill in colour, cut and styling was quite notable within a large sample size of her peers. On the plane ride home, Carmel remembers gazing out the window, thinking: “I’m ready to pursue hairstyling for film,” and that she needed a plan to access the industry. Enter the universe. By happenstance, or fate, upon Carmel’s return from L.A. a colleague in Comox posted on Facebook that a large television production filming on the Island needed a Hairstylist Assistant. After stating her enthusiastic interest
in lending a hand, Carmel was swept off to Parksville for her first crew position on a major production: Chesapeake Shores. She gelled instantly with the Head of Department for the show’s creative vision, and when relationships among film folks are the popcorn and butter of future work in the industry, it’s no wonder Carmel’s talent and iconic energy have kept her working in key hairstyling ever since. Most recently, Carmel was an integral head of the styling team for Crave’s Yaga, a supernatural TV series filmed in Victoria, starring Canadian actors Carrie-Anne Moss (The Matrix) and Hudson Williams (Heated Rivalry) that landed Carmel at the Toronto International Film Festival in September for its world premiere. “Witchy dark fantasy and psychological thriller characters are my favourite looks to build. Creating wigs that transform actors is a
rewarding part of the job. I love seeing that work on screen,” she says. Even over one decade, Carmel is no stranger to the rollercoaster of the film industry. “Covid was an interesting time,” reflected Carmel as we sipped our lattes and recalled how scary everything felt back then. “Unfortunately, a job to finish a show in L.A. was cancelled, but film was still very busy on the Island, and I only briefly went to Vancouver for one production. During American Dreamer, the crew were head-to-toe in PPE and swab-tested twice per week before arriving on set. Even so, some great creative work came out of that time.” For Carmel and many others, film work on the Island ground to a halt during the Writers’ Guild of America (WGA) Strike in 2023. Carmel is a union member with IATSE and ACFC, film unions in full solidarity with the WGA, and with negotiations
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eventually successful after 148 long days, but filming delays as a result, Carmel’s Sidney community came to her aid. “During the strike, Will + Wheel Hair Lounge were so flexible, allowing me to try new cut and colour techniques for clients when I was between film jobs,” recalls Carmel. “I always want to work close to home, and stay on the Island. Productions that film in our beautiful part of the world bring money to the local economy, and I hope people who live here can see how much the industry grows our local businesses. There are a lot of people working on set, and when we have those delayed hours for setup and downtime, we go shopping!” Film nerds generally like to ask two things in the presence of cool filmy folks like Carmel, and I’m no exception: What is your favourite movie and TV show, and if there was another job for you on set, what would
it be? “Napoleon Dynamite for favourite movie, and The White Lotus for TV show. I love an indie film, and a series you can really sink into,” says Carmel as I’m nodding away, jotting notes, sporting an oat milk moustache. For another job on set, Carmel would like to be a Producer. “I like being busy, solving problems, pitching ideas, planning and designing. That’s probably why I love indie films so much – getting creative with a small budget is fun!”
Fresh pasta, made-in house every day because some things shouldn’t be rushed.
located in the Sidney Pier Hotel
Inspiration and hope for the film industry on the Island with successful professionals like Carmel at the helm is closer to home than we might think. You never know where confidence and responding to a Facebook post will lead you. In Carmel’s case, sharing her skills led to her dream career in film and TV, and she didn’t even have to move to Hollywood, because film is already right here, as a truly Island industry. 10acresgroup.ca
Seaside | OCTOBER 2026 | 11
SEASIDE STORIES The Professionals
Building the Exceptional You can feel it when a business gets the little things right. There’s thought in the details and personality in the delivery of even the simplest experiences.
WORDS REUBEN BUTTERFIELD, ROUND 3 PHOTO JANIS JEAN
Those shifts toward the exceptional give us something worth coming back to. Something worth raving about, and worth sharing with the people in our lives. Behind each one of those experiences is a series of intentional choices we often don’t see. Someone got really clear on the problem they solve or the gift they bring to the world. They chose what to offer and how to present it in a way that is unique and special. They considered how to deliver it in a spirit of giving rather than taking, and they’ve crafted something worth bringing to the community they serve. Along the way, they’ve probably tried different ways of doing things, then watched, listened, learned and tweaked. 12 | OCTOBER 2026 | Seaside
Remarkable little moments in our day-to-day lives are the ones we notice and crave most right now, perhaps because we feel their absence so fully when they’re lacking. Average, mediocre and downright bland have always been around. Now they’re cheaper, faster and more accessible than ever before. This is where crafting a great business and brand becomes deeply personal, and irreplaceably human. Those thoughtful pieces woven into the fabric of businesses in our community are the art, and heart, of it all. They are brought to us by people who care and want to deliver. Planning for the remarkable means holding that care through the experience in full: the welcome, the service, the product and all the details.
That is what brings people back, and what makes the experience worth sharing. We get to choose every day what we help co-create. Choosing closer to home shapes the place we share. It gives good ideas room to grow, talented people more reason to build here, and thoughtful businesses the support to keep raising the bar. Over time, the result becomes visible all around us: in the businesses we love, the experiences we share, and the community we build, together. Here on the Peninsula, we’re blessed to have so many great businesses and professionals that bring these moments to life, every day. Coffee shops where ideas are dreamt into being, technicians who go above and beyond,
professionals who dot the i’s and cross the t’s with smiles, and experiences that become traditions in the lives of our families. All of it, rooted right here, exceptionally. In the following pages, we celebrate some of these great people and invite you to reach out should you need something they offer. They bring their knowledge, ideas and care to the work we rely on, and their own uniqueness and shine to our business community. You may see people you know, or meet someone who becomes part of what makes this place even more special moving forward. Thank you for supporting our wonderful local businesses and professionals. reuben@round3.ca
DOMINIQUE ALFORD Alford Walden Law Looking for trusted legal guidance? At Alford Walden Law, Dominique Alford brings over 29 years of experience in estate planning and administration, real estate and business law. With a friendly, knowledgeable team, we offer clear, practical advice tailored to your needs. Proudly serving the Saanich Peninsula, we make law approachable and stressfree. Whether planning your estate, managing a business or buying or selling a home, count on Alford Walden Law – experience you can rely on, support you can trust.
104 – 9710 Second Street, Sidney 778.426.3330 | www.alfordwalden.com
TRIXIE CUSI
Companion Care & Home Support Services Trixie Cusi, founder and owner of Little Joy Residential & Commercial Cleaning Services Ltd., is expanding Little Joy’s commitment to care through Companion Care & Home Support Services. Little Joy provides seniors and individuals with meaningful companionship, everyday assistance, respite support and a caring presence when families cannot always be there. Trixie and her team are committed to providing dependable, compassionate support that helps clients feel connected, valued, comfortable and supported while maintaining independence at home. Facebook: Little Joy Residential and Commercial Cleaning Services Ltd.
250.532.0271 | littlejoycleaningservices@yahoo.com
EVELYN ANDREWS-GREENE, CPA, CA Helping YOU turn YOUR Dreams into Reality! • Holistically stabilizing yourself for tougher times • Proactive financial and income tax planning • Personalized “Life Themes” in-person consultations • Independent, practical, knowledgeable • Local individuals and small business owners • Vancouver Island’s “Business Excellence” Professional Company of the Year (multi years)
BOOK YOUR CONSULTATION NOW! Email Evelyn Andrews-Greene at egreene@andrewsgreene.bc.ca (Monday – Friday mornings plus 1pm appointments)
2370 Orchard Avenue (at 6th), Sidney | www.andrewsgreene.bc.ca Seaside | OCTOBER 2026 | 13
SPA PRACTIONERS
The Spa at Brentwood Bay Resort
CLAIRE TKACHUK
MARINA MANAGER
The Marina at Brentwood Bay Resort A hidden gem tucked just beyond the city, The Marina at Brentwood Bay Resort is a gateway to adventure on Vancouver Island’s rugged coastline. From boat shuttles and sunset cruises to private coastal adventures, the marina invites you to explore the Saanich Inlet from a new perspective.
Spa Practitioners: Melissa Skuban, Carli Griffin (RMT) and Emily Tattersall
At The Spa at Brentwood Bay Resort, our practitioners bring their expertise, creativity and care to every treatment. Working with Eminence Organics and La Biosthétique, our approach is modern, sensual and deeply personal. From advanced facials and specialty techniques to therapeutic and RMT treatments, each practitioner brings a unique perspective, united by a shared passion for helping guests feel at home in their bodies. Set against the tranquil shores of Brentwood Bay, The Spa offers a restorative experience where thoughtful treatments, natural beauty and genuine human connection come together to create a holistic approach to wellness.
www.brentwoodbayspa.com 250.544.5111 | spa@brentwoodbayresort.com
Surrounded by the natural beauty of the Salish Sea, there’s always something new to discover. Whether you’re setting out for the day or staying with us overnight, our marina crew can’t wait to welcome you aboard and share this remarkable corner of Vancouver Island with you.
www.brentwoodbayresort.com 250.652.3151 | marina@brentwoodbayresort.com
STEPHEN LEAVER and ROBYN WALLE Baker Tilly Sidney
Baker Tilly’s Robyn Walle, CPA, CA, and Stephen Leaver, CPA, are continuing to establish strong roots in the area as their Sidney office grows. Robyn brings her comprehensive accounting experience to assist ownermanager businesses with meeting their tax and accounting requirements in an efficient and effective manner. She also specializes in Estates, as well as overseeing clients with audit or review requirements. Stephen’s specialty is tax, and he focuses on comprehensive tax planning for clients with personal, corporate and/or trust tax requirements. His experience is bolstered by completion of CPA Canada’s intensive three-year In-Depth Tax Program. Baker Tilly is a full-service accounting firm with offices in Sidney, Uptown, and Westshore. Their diverse team can handle all manner of tax and accounting requirements including US tax filings. The firm, while locally owned and managed, is a member of the international Baker Tilly network. This association provides access to an extensive network of knowledge resulting in the best of all worlds – a locally focused firm with an emphasis on client relationships, but with access to broad resources when required.
250.386.0500 | #7 - 9764 Fifth Street, Sidney | www.btvic.com 14 | OCTOBER 2026 | Seaside
MEET BEACON LAW’S NEWEST ESTATE PLANNING DUO Beacon Law Centre
At Beacon Law, we’re committed to maximizing prosperity and peace of mind by helping clients navigate life’s significant events — planned or unplanned. So we’re thrilled to welcome two talented additions to our Estate Planning team. Anika Jones joined us as a summer student in 2024 and returned to article in 2025. A University of Alberta law grad with roots in Victoria’s legal community, she brings warmth, empathy and a deep respect for the personal side of planning ahead. A bornand-raised B.C. girl who fell for Island life in 2016, Anika spends her free time hiking, paddleboarding, hunting antique-store treasures, and developing rolls of film at home. Kelsey Carrara focuses on wills and estate administration, drawing on family law, civil litigation, and immigration experience. Born and raised in Victoria and now back after years in Australia and Vancouver, she loves getting to know her clients and giving them peace of mind. Off the clock, you’ll find her at dance class or reading a good book when her young children will allow it. Find out more about them — and Beacon Law — on our brand-new website!
250.656.3280 | Sidney | Royal Oak | www.beaconlaw.ca
MICHELLE MARTIN AND ROB ROLSTON Beacon Realty Group
Michelle Martin and Rob Rolston bring a wealth of experience, strong community connections and a shared passion for helping people navigate real estate with confidence. Michelle has called Victoria home for most of her life. She began her real estate career in 2012 and was elected to serve as a Director of the Real Estate Board in 2026. Rob settled in Victoria in 2013 after living throughout Western Canada and brings experience from education, home building, financial services, business ownership and the not-for-profit sector. Their approach is built on trusted relationships, attentive service and treating every client like their only client. Michelle and Rob are also passionate about giving back, helping raise funds for Shoreline Medical Society. They feel fortunate to live, work, and contribute to the Peninsula, a place they are proud to call home.
250.893.9975 | michelle@beaconrealtygroup.ca | rob@beaconrealtygroup.ca Seaside | OCTOBER 2026 | 15
THE TEAM AT BUDGET BLINDS VICTORIA
A Local Business with a View A beautiful room is rarely about one element. It is the way light moves through the space, how fabrics soften the architecture and how the details come together to make a home feel distinctly personal.
warmth, or quietly provide the privacy and light control a family needs every day.
the ones that look beautiful while making everyday life easier.
That perspective helps guide the experience clients receive from the very beginning.
That is where the professionals at Budget Blinds Victoria come in.
Rather than choosing from a catalogue and hoping it works, clients are invited to explore possibilities within their own homes. The team considers the architecture, natural light, existing furnishings, lifestyle and personal style before helping determine what will work best.
For a family business, being local means more than having a local address. It means seeing familiar names come through the door, receiving a referral from a past client, and knowing that the work being done is becoming part of someone’s home and story.
As a locally owned, family-run business, Budget Blinds Victoria has spent years becoming part of the communities it serves, working with homeowners throughout Greater Victoria, the Peninsula and Langford. Along the way, the business has grown through something that cannot be bought or manufactured: relationships. For Alanna Gurney, design has always been at the centre of that relationship. With a background in interior design, she understands that window coverings are about much more than covering a window. They can shape the character of a room, frame a beautiful view, bring in texture and
It is a process that combines creativity with practical expertise – and one that has helped Budget Blinds Victoria build lasting connections with its clients. Behind each project is a team that brings its own strengths to the table: Alanna, Brian, Dustin, Jesse, Kiel, Lindsey and Paula. Together, they share an appreciation for good design and an understanding that the best solutions are
As Budget Blinds Victoria continues to evolve, that sense of connection remains at the heart of the business. Because ultimately, great design is personal – and so is building a business people trust enough to welcome into their homes.
100-915 Fort Street, Victoria | 250.381.6238 | www.budgetblinds.com
SEASIDE LIVING
Four Conversations WORDS PHIL DOUBLET, PRINCIPAL, DOUBLET MANAGEMENT CONSULTING LTD. At the last 5:05 Club event, I enjoyed an evening with a couple dozen Peninsula business owners. Somebody asked what I do. Simply put, I help owners plan an exit that works for them and for the business they built. Everyone in that conversation agreed this matters. Several said they had been meaning to get to it. Not one had a plan. That is not unusual. In my experience, it is the pattern. The Business Development Bank of Canada reported in January that 61% of Canadian small and mid-sized businesses are led by owners aged 50 or older, and nearly one in five plan to exit within five years. That is a lot of businesses looking for a new owner at once, which makes a buyer's market for anyone who hasn’t planned ahead. To my mind this starts with four conversations. None of them are hard; they just never seem urgent. Your family. You may have a mental picture of one of your kids running the place. Have you asked them? I have watched owners find out, years in, that the son who stayed was only being polite and the daughter who left was the one who wanted it. Fairness is the harder half. If one child works in the business and two do not, equal and fair are not the same thing. Sort that out over dinner, not at a lawyer's office. Your people. The likely buyer of your business may already be on your payroll – your operations manager, your lead hand or the two who ran
everything the last time you were away and managed not to phone you. Most assume they could never afford it, so they say nothing and wait to find out what happens to them. One coffee tells you whether there is anything there. That sale is slower and usually financed partly by you, but the name stays on the building. Your number. Most owners have a figure in their head for what they need out of this. It usually arrived without much evidence, and is rarely tested against taxes, debt or what the business would actually fetch, any of which can move it a long way. Your financial advisor can work it through with you, and the answer is far more useful 10
years out than 10 months out. Hope is not a strategy. Yourself. Is any of this written down? Does the shareholder agreement still describe the business you actually have, or is it in a binder somewhere quietly going out of date? Does your will reflect the company as it is now, or as it was when you last thought about it? Your accountant and lawyer each own a piece of this. So does an advisor you know, like and trust, who will tell you what a buyer would see rather than what you want to hear. None of these demands a decision this year. Only a conversation, which is a much
smaller thing. The businesses that get sold, passed on or kept in the family are the ones where somebody was willing to raise it out loud. Everywhere else, people stay polite until it’s too late. One more thing, coming from 26 years of watching this. Owners consistently underestimate how long an exit takes and how hard it hits. The step that matters is deciding that this is worth your attention now, rather than that distant future point when you may be “ready.” Everything else follows, including the time to get used to the whole idea of selling. Seaside | OCTOBER 2026 | 17
RISA GAGNER, PERSONAL REAL ESTATE CORPORATION
COLDWELL BANKER OCEANSIDE REAL ESTATE Risa Gagner is known for her integrity, professionalism and dedication. She brings a thoughtful, detail-oriented approach to every aspect of her work. Risa believes trust is built through honesty, transparency and consistency. Her service model reflects her commitment to delivering an unparalleled client experience where her calm, organized and personable approach allows her to negotiate effectively for her clients while ensuring they feel informed, supported and respected. Risa graduated from the University of Victoria with a teaching degree, an experience that shaped her ability to communicate clearly, efficiently multi-task and guide others with patience and confidence. When Risa transitioned into real estate, she found an opportunity to combine her communication skills, eye for detail, creativity and desire to help people navigate life transitions whether they are first-time buyers or seniors choosing to downsize their homes and upsize their freedom. Beyond her professional life, Risa is deeply committed to her family. She has been married to Shane for 29 years and they have three children and one grandson. Her extended family also lives on the Saanich Peninsula. Risa enjoys hiking, cycling, rowing, gardening, spending family time at Cowichan Lake and travelling.
250.899.7188 | risa@risagagner.ca | www.risagagner.ca
BRENDA MACFARLANE MBA, CFP, CIM, FCSI, EPC SENIOR WEALTH ADVISOR IG Wealth Management Inc., Mutual Fund Division
I started in the financial services industry in 1990 as a bank teller. I recall the bank manager recommending to me, way back then, that I start saving for my future. I’m grateful for that advice. Today, it is my privilege to help people plan for a financially comfortable future. My extensive training has prepared me to guide clients through their professional and personal milestones. I have earned the Elder Planning Counselor designation, to allow me to advise clients on mature life-stage needs. I have a long history of working with clients who require complex tax, retirement and investment planning. This experience translates well to affluent investors, incorporated professionals, physicians and those approaching retirement or recently retired. In my spare time I am a Director on the Board of the Vancouver Island South Film and Media Commission. I am delighted to be learning about the film production business as well as the economic benefits of film production on the Peninsula. Through more awareness of the Film Commission as well as funding, we aspire to attract more film studios to bring their productions to South Vancouver Island. Trademarks, including IG Wealth Management, are owned by IGM Financial Inc. and licensed to its subsidiary corporations.
778.549.5144 | 202 - 3671 Uptown Blvd, Victoria | www.brendamacfarlane.ca 18 | OCTOBER 2026 | Seaside
RYAN GREGORY, RSE
Little Crow Projects Inc. | Licensed Residential Builder With more than 25 years of hands-on construction experience and 7 years leading Little Crow Projects (LCP), Ryan Gregory has built LCP around a simple standard: deliver quality work, communicate clearly, and respect the schedule. From individual custom homes to large-scale residential developments, Ryan and the LCP team have delivered more than 100 homes, bringing that experience to projects at every residential scale. Ryan remains closely involved with clients while supporting and mentoring team members within the company. Communication and client care are central to the way LCP operates. Clients receive regular updates, clear budget and schedule information, and consistent visibility into project progress through modern construction-management systems. Schedule discipline is fundamental to the way LCP operates. Detailed planning, accountability and proactive problem-solving are used to keep projects moving and minimize avoidable delays. While Ryan provides the leadership and direction, he is quick to credit the team behind LCP. The skilled people and professionals behind LCP are what make consistent execution possible. Built on Communication. Driven by Standards.
250.744.6757 | office@littlecrowprojects.ca | www.littlecrowprojects.ca
Seaside | OCTOBER 2026 | 19
OCEANSIDE REAL ESTATE
On The Fence? Not sure if it's the right time to buy or sell?
Whether you're weighing a sale or waiting for the right purchase, the answer depends on your situation — not the headlines. With decades of combined real estate experience, Michele, Eric, and Mark can walk you through your options and help you decide with clarity.
Reach Out Today and Let's Talk. www.holmesrealty.com
250-656-0911
reachus@holmesrealty.com
TRAVEL DEPARTURES TRAVEL BETTER
TOGETHER
The Sidney Team
Stop by our beautiful new office (Suite 203) and say hi!
CATHY SCOTT
CEO (Chief Exploration Officer) Victoria & Sidney
MARINA GOSSELIN Travel Specialist
CATHY LARSEN
CEO (Chief Exploration Officer) Sidney
SAM WALLBRIDGE Travel Specialist
THERESA BOBROWSKY Travel Specialist
JENNIFER DANTER Travel Specialist
Our Sidney team is here to help you plan extraordinary travel experiences, with personalized service, firsthand knowledge and a true passion for exploring the world.
LESLIE DENKO
Mortgage Alliance Cutting Edge Lending Mortgages aren’t one-sizefits-all, and understanding your options can be confusing. Whether you’re buying your first home, renewing an existing mortgage or looking to refinance, I’ll walk you through the process with clarity and confidence. Together, we’ll explore the solutions available and create a Mortgage Plan that fits your goals. Putting your needs at the centre of what I do is something I take great pride in. Let’s connect and plan your next move
Same great team. A fresh new space. We’d love to see you!
www.departurestravel.com
203-2423 Beacon Ave, Sidney | 250.999.9800 | BC Reg. 75524 1889 Oak Bay Ave, Victoria | 250.595.1161 | BC Reg. 63139
#103 - 2423 Beacon Avenue, Sidney 250.216.8375 | www.lesliedenko.com
Seaside | OCTOBER 2026 | 21
SEASIDE STORIES Peninsula Voices
Michelle Ford:
Bringing Art to the Community Michelle Ford is the new owner of The Village Gallery in Sidney, now called V Gallery & Framing, with a supply section for artists.
WORDS JESSE HOLTH PHOTO SARAH HARTLEY PHOTOGRAPHY
We chatted about artistic expression, refreshing a gallery space, and the importance of having public spaces for the arts. Can you tell us a bit about yourself and your background? I have been a resident of Sidney for 41 years and raised two daughters on my own, both of whom are now working on undergrad degrees. As an avid traveller of more than 35 countries, I found an excuse to study abroad. The three of us moved to the U.K. for a year for my MA fine art program. I have a black belt in karate and come from an equestrian background. This is my second career – third if you count motherhood – and very different from my first. I never realized the arts were of interest when I was young and deciding what to do with my life. Now I eat, sleep and breathe art. How did you come to take over the gallery? What made you decide to add an art supply section? The previous owners were looking to retire, and I had the background, interest and energy to refresh a long-established Sidney business. I realized I
wanted to immerse myself in the local arts scene, so I became an ArtSea Community Arts Council director. I envisioned a larger plan for the arts on the Peninsula: to bring it to national awareness and make it a destination for artists and appreciators. To succeed, I realized I needed the triumvirate: board position, art gallery and art supply. We now have the materials required for our artists to create, an exceptional geographical location for inspiration, and the venues by which they have opportunities to show their work. You plan to expand the educational aspect of the gallery, with talks and tours about the artists or different genres of art. Why is this important? In regards to genres of art, there is so much more than painting or sculpting: installation, public and interactive art, and performance, to name a few. Beyond representational art – scenes, objects, and people as we see them in reality – there is its opposite: surrealism. We also have abstract and a crossover in abstract representational styles.
Modernism began in the 1800s when artists began to push against traditions and instead of creating for church, state and power, it became real-life or outspoken button-pushing kind of work – as well as experimental and mixed media, then eventually, social-environmental-political. The list and styles continue to evolve. My education opened my eyes to the possibilities of art, more than only attractive or decorative creations – art is another way to address the human condition and realities of existence. What is the role of art in a community? What can it teach us? Art in all of its forms can prompt us to hope, appreciate, remember, understand, have compassion, open our awareness and stimulate conversation. One may complain or comment on the strange, weird and even “undesirable” art they see, but if they are still talking about it later, then it did its job. The gallery has been invited to set up a three-month offsite exhibition in downtown Victoria from September to December. How does this work? We choose established artists represented by V, whose works best represent the theme – in this case, the Island which surrounds us or island landscapes. In the form of original paintings and printmaking, I curate 12 to 16 works into a private members gallery for guests from across Canada, and potentially worldwide. Works are for sale as usual, and these artists are further exposed in a wider geographic area than Sidney and its visitors. In turn, room has been made in the gallery itself for new work and new artists. You hope to raise the profile of Peninsula arts and culture on the international stage. How can this be accomplished? More events and activities, which are in turn disseminated through conversation, excitement, and, of course, media. This is achieved by creating wonder and anticipation by an artist community and active arts council, who are imaginative, go-getters, dream big and act large. Also, through partnerships with all of the arts – not just visual, but also performative, musical, literary and more – in the form of councils, municipalities, art groups, local
businesses, merchants and patrons. As a member of the ArtSea Board of Directors, you want the gallery to function as a kind of hub for artists and cultural events. What does the future look like? The ArtSea Board began to significantly evolve over the last year. With a fresh set of eyes and new energy, plans were set in motion; meanwhile, I succeeded in my triumvirate with a gallery to host and converse, art supply for the artists and board position to help as a team to make art happen! There will be more and varying events planned by ArtSea, as well as an active and ever-changing face at V Gallery. Our next new event will be the Art of Living, celebrating the arts – not just visual, but also literary, musical and performance, as well as gastronomy, outdoor living, flowers and gardens, fashion and hair, the home ... we are only limited by the imagination! Think about the “art of living” in a beautiful, fulfilling, and “small pleasures” way. Imagine shop windows – rooms of experience – where goods interact with artwork. Imagine a fine art show integrated with music, performance and readings. We will also be increasing private funding, fundraising and sponsorship through increased public awareness and opportunities for groups such as youth, the future guardians or caretakers of our communities and heritage. We need to find a way to sustain ArtSea and the arts in a time of lessening funding and higher costs in putting on public events, as well as upkeep for the existing ArtSea Gallery at Tulista Park. Finally, we are planning a central and architecturally designed building and outdoor space specifically to bring the arts together: public gallery and library, intimate performance space, exhibition space for local artists, ArtSea headquarters, outdoor sculpture and public art. I have travelled specifically to some incredible places for this experience and there is no reason why this beautiful part of the world shouldn’t have this opportunity as well. It would be a boon for our small businesses, hospitality industry, outdoor adventure companies, and for our artistic community.
NANCY MCMILLAN Nancy’s Sew Creative I have been making beautiful things for home and outdoors on The Peninsula for more than 30 years. The cushion pictured was made from fabric sourced in Africa. I love to sew, and I come by it honestly. My grandfather was a custom upholsterer, and my mother was a couturier designing custom clothing. I manufacture washable slipcovers for good-quality furniture, custom chair pads, cushion covers and outdoor cushion covers. Your fabric or mine. Please give me a call at 250.655.1257 to arrange a time to come by my shop on East Saanich Road to discuss your own custom project.
www.nancysewcreative.ca 250.655.1257 | nancysewcreative@gmail.com
SUE PIPES Occasions By Design
Originally from South Africa, Sue has over 25 years of interior design experience. Sue is known for creating spaces that are functional, refined and beautiful, whether she is guiding clients through a full renovation or a décor update. She offers expert guidance that harmonizes classic, timeless style with fresh and modern innovations. From early planning to final selections, Sue’s design process brings clarity, creativity and peace of mind to every renovation or project.
250.812.8538 sue.obdesign@gmail.com Seaside | OCTOBER 2026 | 23
INGRID JARISZ* Newport Realty
As a dedicated real estate professional, my goal is to provide exceptional service to my clients with a focus on building long-lasting relationships.I know what it takes to work with others to achieve our goals. I want to be your partner and advocate throughout the real estate process, supporting you through my proven success and experience. My approach allows me to build strong relationships with colleagues in the industry while employing streamlined systems to concentrate on getting your home sold fast and for the right price. Together with the extensive support of the unique Newport Realty brand, I use my skills in marketing and my passion for real estate to provide both Buyers and Sellers with the experience, professionalism and integrity required to market or aquire a home regardless of size or location. “Real Estate is my passion; people are my priority!” * personal real estate corporation
250.385.2033 | 1144 Fort Street, Victoria | www.ingridjarisz.com
OUNSTED & COMPANY
Ounsted & Company is a Chartered Professional Accounting firm proudly serving individuals, families and businesses throughout the Saanich Peninsula and Greater Victoria. While tax returns and financial statements are an important part of what we do, our work often goes well beyond annual compliance. We work closely with privately owned businesses, professionals, retirees and families, with many client relationships extending over decades and across generations.
Ryan Kelly, CPA, CA, BBA
Chris Ounsted, CPA, CA, CBV
Alex Paravatos, CPA
Tax and business advisory services are a significant part of our practice. We assist with personal and corporate tax planning, corporate reorganizations, shareholder transactions, succession planning and the eventual sale or transition of a business. We also help families navigate estate and trust matters, assisting executors and trustees with the tax and accounting responsibilities that can arise following the death of a family member. Our specialized services include business valuations and litigation-related financial work for matrimonial matters, shareholder disputes and succession planning. Our approach is simple: understand each client’s circumstances, explain the issues clearly and provide practical advice that helps them make informed financial decisions.
250.388.3555 | 260 - 4460 Chatterton Way, Victoria | www.ounstedandco.ca 24 | OCTOBER 2026 | Seaside
WHERE THE TREES MEET THE TIDE Made by Phillips' Fermentorium Distilling on Vancouver Island, Canada.
AVA I L A B L E N O W A T CA T H E D RA L G I N .C O M F O L L O W @ CA T H E D RA L _ G I N
DR. SAMANTHA BOURDEAU, O.D. Ray Dahl Optical & Optometrists For 25 years, optometrist Dr. Samantha Bourdeau has been dedicated to helping patients protect one of their most valuable senses – the gift of sight. Since joining the Sidney community in 2013, she has had the privilege of caring for generations of local families with thoughtful, personalized eye care. At Ray Dahl Optical and Optometrists, the focus is on preserving vision through every stage of life. Comprehensive eye examinations play an essential role in the early detection and ongoing management of conditions including cataracts, glaucoma and age-related macular degeneration, helping patients maintain their vision and independence for years to come. Just as important is ensuring eyes feel as good as they see. For patients experiencing dry eye, our clinic provides detailed assessments and modern treatment options designed to improve comfort and support long-term eye health. Dr. Bourdeau is proud to work alongside an exceptional team of caring professionals who share her commitment to clinical excellence, genuine relationships and compassionate service. Together, we are honoured to provide trusted eye care to the Sidney community.
250.655.1122 | 101-2376 Bevan Ave, Sidney | www.raydahloptical.ca
THE TEAM AT
Runway Aesthetics At Runway Aesthetics in beautiful Sidney, B.C., confidence truly takes flight. Our aviation-inspired clinic offers a welcoming, uplifting environment and a first-class experience from the moment you arrive. Paula, our Clinic Director, leads the team with over 30 years of experience in the medical aesthetics industry. Known throughout Vancouver Island for her expertise and trusted reputation, she has built Runway Aesthetics on a foundation of skill, artistry and genuine care. Supporting her vision is our talented team of registered nurse injectors – Janelle, Jayda and Kate – alongside Sonya, our experienced laser specialist. Together, our team is committed to helping every client feel comfortable, understood and confident. We believe less is more. Our approach is subtle, refined and tailored to enhance your natural beauty while preserving what makes you uniquely you. We’re also excited to introduce our brand-new Sciton BBL HEROicTM and MOXI® resurfacing laser, offering advanced options for improving pigmentation, redness, skin tone, texture and overall skin health. Whether you’re seeking subtle rejuvenation or a refreshed glow, your confidence is always cleared for takeoff.
AESTHETICS 250.483.5556 | 226-9800 McDonald Park Rd, Sidney | info@runwayaesthetics.ca 26 | OCTOBER 2026 | Seaside
SEASIDE LIVING
A Little Friction
This morning I emptied the dishwasher when I should have been answering emails.
WORDS LAUREN MCKIMM FOUNDER, ECLECTIVE COWORKING
Which would have been fine, except putting away one mug somehow became wiping the crumbs out of the cutlery drawer and standing in my kitchen at 10:23 a.m. wondering why we own 17 reusable water bottles and only three matching lids. This is the dangerous beauty of working for yourself. I have always thought I needed freedom to do my best work. My brain does not move in a particularly straight line. Sometimes an idea gets stuck in it and I cannot leave it alone until I have sketched it, googled it, sent the email and followed the lead. I am Alice, long gone down the rabbit hole, and occasionally someone needs to send a search party. I know I will get the important work done. I always do. Sometimes elegantly, but sometimes by the skin of my teeth. What has surprised me
is how differently I work when I leave my house. Nobody is supervising me. Nobody cares whether I finish the spreadsheet or spend 40 minutes investigating something completely unrelated. But everyone around me made a decision that morning to show up and work. And somehow, I do too. I don’t scroll aimlessly through my phone. A personal call suddenly requires me to get up and go somewhere else, and that tiny inconvenience is often enough to make me think, I’ll call back later. Nobody is watching me, exactly. But I am being seen. I used to think that kind of accountability was something I wanted to escape. Now I wonder if some of the inconveniences we have worked so hard to remove were doing more for us than
we realized. The commute said: work starts here, and ends here. Getting dressed was a small declaration of intent. Other people, even people we barely knew, reminded us that work involved actual humans. That last one feels increasingly important. Lately I catch myself halfway through a beautifully polished report wondering whether the person who sent it has actually read it. Emails arrive immaculate. Proposals sound thoughtful and strategic. Everyone suddenly has perfect grammar and an uncanny fondness for the phrase “moving forward.” And I find myself missing the rough edges. I have always understood people through them. Their humour. Their hesitation. The strange way they phrase something. The moment they say: “I actually don’t know.” Those things
told me who was on the other side. Now it can feel as though we are slowly outsourcing the human part of work while somehow leaving each other responsible for receiving it. Maybe that is why the disappearing boundaries bother me more than I expected. At home, every version of me is available all the time. Founder. Boss. Manager. Mother. Friend. Creative person. The dishwasher is right there. So are the emails. I can do everything whenever I want, and increasingly I am realizing that “whenever” has a cost. Because when every version of you is available at once, none of them gets all of you. Maybe some boundaries were never barriers. Maybe they were how we knew who we were supposed to be for a little while.
Seaside | OCTOBER 2026 | 27
SARA MAYA KAUR BHANDAR SLG Saanichton Law Group Born and raised on Vancouver Island, Sara Maya stayed local to complete her law degree at the University of Victoria. She joined SLG Saanichton Law Group in 2024, drawn to their community focus and vibrant wills and estates practice. Sara Maya loves getting to know her clients and their families, and values building a lasting professional relationship that ensures they feel supported through all of life’s transitions. Outside of her legal practice you can find Sara Maya hunting for rocks and fossils, or singing in the alto section of her community choir, along with her partner Henry.
www.saanichtonlaw.com 250.544.0727 | saramaya@saanichtonlaw.com
BRADLEY M. BIANCHIN
PATRICK RIPPON
Entering the legal profession in Australia, Bradley M. Bianchin returned from across the globe to settle in Saanichton, and brought his passion for peoplefocused law with him. Now the principal lawyer of SLG Saanichton Law Group, he has built a local practice that helps families, entrepreneurs and retirees plan with confidence, clarity and care.
Patrick is an attorney that handles both litigation and solicitor work, including workplace injuries, real estate conveyancing, wills and estates, and probate matters. Patrick served as an Infantry Officer in the Canadian Armed Forces, where he was deployed multiple times throughout Eastern Europe and the Middle East. Accordingly, he has unique knowledge of veteran entitlements surrounding wills and estates.
SLG Saanichton Law Group
With over a decade of experience, Bradley is known for making complex legal topics feel manageable and even empowering. Whether he is drafting a will, setting up a trust, or guiding a client through a major transaction, he does it with empathy, precision and a down-toearth approach.
www.saanichtonlaw.com 250.544.0727 | brad@saanichtonlaw.com
28 | OCTOBER 2026 | Seaside
SLG Saanichton Law Group
Today, Patrick continues to serve as a reservist with the Canadian Scottish Regiment. When Patrick is not in the office you can find him exploring the island with his young family, which includes his wife Janet, his son Luca, and daughter Charlotte.
www.saanichtonlaw.com 778.426.4455 | patrick@saanichtonlaw.com
Sleep as a superpower. Growing Growing up up with with an an overactive overactive nervous nervous system meant sleep was one of the only only times times that that Chris Chris was was able able to to settle. settle. It It became his superpower; that rare moment of peace amidst an always-busy always-busy brain. brain. His His early early relationship relationship with with sleep sleep sparked sparked a lifelong lifelong interest interest in how to improve it, in a world running in a constant deficit. Chris found the beginning of an answer, working at one of Canada's top mattress companies. Immersed Immersed in in the the world world of of mattresses, mattresses, bedding, and sleep, he discovered the alignment pillow. It brought the body into into proper proper alignment, alignment, eased tension, and supported the limbs and joints in ways that that no no mattress mattress could on its its own. own. And, And, he he noticed noticed that that almost no one ever returned or exchanged a mattress one ever returned or exchanged a mattress when when they they had had purchased purchased it it alongside alongside an an alignment alignment pillow. pillow. That That observation observation became the seed of a bigger idea; it isn’t isn’t just just the the mattress. mattress. The bed needs to be approached as a sleep system. Spinal alignment, pressure point relief, temperature regulation, pillow height and mattress firmness all make an impact. Deep, Deep, restorative restorative sleep is the result of all of of those coming together together to to create create the ultimate environment for rest. As As a result, Resthouse Sleep Solutions was born. Resthouse Resthouse had had humble beginnings in Chris’ garage in 2014. With With just just 450 450 square square feet feet and and aa few few half-queen half-queen mattress mattress stations, it was a tiny space with a big vision. From there, big Chris took the concept on the road to home shows, and the then into the community; first at the Community Farm Store, and then to Station Street, downtown Duncan. Today, Resthouse operates in both Duncan and Victoria, and is still still rooted rooted in in the the same mission; to create sleep environments that that actually actually work. work. For For Chris, Chris, it it has has always always been about connection, and the belief that everyone deserves a sleep space that feels soothing, supportive, and restful.
Explore the alignment pillow
JAMES TEDFORD AND THE TEAM AT Tedford Garage Doors
Tedford Garage Doors is a locally owned Victoria company founded in 1984. Under owner James Tedford, the company serves residential and commercial customers throughout Greater Victoria and has expanded service north through its Nanaimo operation. The brand promise is simple: We Show Up. The longstanding line Call the Bear and We’ll Be There reflects a team committed to answering the phone, arriving when promised, explaining options clearly, and standing behind the work. Services include garage-door repair, maintenance, replacement, new installation, commercial doors, operators, with 24/7 emergency response available on the south island. Tedford combines more than four decades of local experience with modern systems, well-stocked vehicles, ongoing technician training, and a culture
that treats customers and team members with respect. The company is known for the Tedford Bear mascot and strong local customer feedback. James views the business as a local institution being built for the next generation: rooted in Victoria, growing carefully, and keeping reliability and personal service at the centre.
Great overall experience with Tedford! I called with a non-emergency fix on my garage door and they were able to fit me in the next day. The technician showed up on time and was very friendly and knowledgeable. The technician assessed the situation and provided options and their honest recommendation for my situation. Made the repairs quickly and went over everything. I would definitely give Tedford
a call if I ever have garage door needs again and would 100% recommend them to anyone! – Geoff Gee Outstanding company, work ethic, and service. It’s an easy recommendation. They installed a new garage door at my place, saw the door frame is a fair bit uneven because of the age of my house. Installed their door and have followed up to make sure the new door seals up along the ground properly. Their adjustments and follow-ups to provide the best service qualitatively has got me happily filling out a review. 10/10, only wish more companies were like this. – Chris Heckel
723B Vanalman Avenue, Victoria | 778.749.1410 | www.tedforddoors.com
SEASIDE LIVING
Numerology for Business WORDS KIRSTEN FOSS, SOUL CFO NUMEROLOGY, BOOKKEEPING & BUSINESS STRATEGY
You’re doing everything right. Up early answering emails, putting in the hours (plus some), showing up on socials, being responsible with finances. And yet, as an entrepreneur, you’ve likely spent a few seasons feeling like you're swimming against the current. Most entrepreneurs chalk it up to luck, but there’s an unseen pattern operating underneath it all. And here's what most business owners don’t know: you’re standing in one specific spot of a nine-year cycle right now.
HOW IT WORKS Numerology studies the energetic codes of the numbers one to nine, each carrying its own characteristics – both positive and negative. In business, we can use this information to map time in a nine-year cycle. To find out where you are in this cycle exactly is a simple equation called your Personal Year: separate the digits of the month and day of your birthday plus the current year (2026) and add them up. Reduce double digits to a
single digit. For example, if your birth month and day are January 19, your equation for your Personal Year in 2026 is 0+1+1+9+2+0+2+6 = 21 | 2+1=3. You would be in a Personal Year 3.
listen and trust what you feel and know, but cannot yet see. A year to sharpen, not launch.
YOUR NINE SEASONS
Year 9 – The Pause: Release, rest. The end of the cycle brings higher awareness and reflection. Tie up loose ends for what’s coming next.
What energy does each Personal Year hold for you? Year 1 – The Start: New beginnings, planting a seed. This is a year for fresh starts and new directions: a career pivot; a new offer; a bold step. Back yourself and start. Year 2 – The Slow Build: Partnership, connection. Nurture your new beginning with collaboration and balance. Year 3 – The Bloom: Selfexpression and creativity. You’re magnetic right now – visibility pays off and people are ready to find you. Year 4 – The Foundation: Structure and stability. Follow the steps; don’t skip them. Build systems to hold everything together. Year 5 – The Pivot: Change, freedom. Expect the unexpected for the purpose of showing the gaps in your goal and energetic alignment. Stay flexible. Year 6 – The Steward: Responsibility, boundaries. Own what’s yours; release what isn’t and hold your line. Say no to protect your yes. Year 7 – The Believer: Going inwards, refining. Get quiet,
Year 8 – The Harvest: Your power year. Think big, raise your prices and step into your brilliance. Own it.
THE PRACTICAL PAYOFF What can you do with your Personal Year number in business? The point is more about permission than it is prediction. When you align your effort with your energy, it simply goes further. A failed launch in a Year 7 could soar in a Year 8. Or like one of my clients, who stopped feeling like a failure in a limited government role when she discovered she was in a personal Year 8 – the perfect year to push forward on a pay increase or apply for higher level positions. In business numerology, knowing your Personal Year is less about guesswork and more about strategic timing. So before you push forward on another year, it might be worth asking a quieter question: which energy is my Personal Year supporting best? Because each number from one to nine is an energetic code that has something to say about how you should work. Find your year and start there! www.kirstenfoss.com Seaside | OCTOBER 2026 | 31
MATT PEULEN
RE/MAX Camosun A Career Built on Community and Connection Before becoming a REALTOR®, Matt Peulen spent years shaping the Saanich Peninsula’s housing landscape, leading heritage conversions, guiding land planning projects, and partnering with non-profit housing providers on complex developments. This depth of experience gives him a level of market insight few agents bring: an understanding of value, potential, and risk that goes well beyond the listing sheet. Now in his third year as a REALTOR® with RE/MAX Camosun, Matt was ranked the #2 producing agent in his Peninsula office for 2025, reflecting the trust clients place in his judgment. His commitment extends beyond real estate. Matt serves as a Board Member of the Norgaard Foundation, a private foundation established in 1989 that supports individuals facing significant barriers to the programs they need, guided by a simple philosophy: provide a path forward where no other help can be found. For clients navigating a significant property decision, that blend of strategic insight and integrity is what sets Matt apart. Ready to work with a REALTOR® who brings rare, ground-level expertise to your next move? Let’s connect.
250.589.5991 | matt@mattpeulen.com | www.mattpeulen.com
JANELLE THORNTON
Senior Helpers Victoria There is often a moment when a family realizes someone they love needs more support. Sometimes it happens gradually; sometimes everything changes overnight. Either way, knowing what to do next can feel overwhelming. For Janelle Thornton, co-owner of Senior Helpers Victoria, that experience is deeply personal. Long before opening the business, Janelle understood the importance of being present for the people we love. Her relationship with her grandfather, and later supporting him as dementia changed his needs, gave her an understanding of care that extends far beyond a profession. Today, that experience shapes how Janelle supports families across Greater Victoria. She believes care should never feel transactional. It begins with listening, understanding the person behind the need, and creating support that preserves dignity, independence and familiarity at home. For families navigating aging, recovery, dementia or simply realizing they cannot do everything alone, Janelle believes the right support can make an important difference; helping families remain families, while the people they love continue living with dignity, connection and greater independence at home.
236.470.0182 | 1562 Fort St, Victoria | www.seniorhelpers.ca/bc/victoria 32 | OCTOBER 2026 | Seaside
ANGELA ECHLIN Skin by Angela
HEALTHY SKIN STARTS WITH UNDERSTANDING YOUR SKIN Angela is a licensed esthetician with nearly four decades of experience, specializing in complex skin concerns including acne, rosacea, pigmentation, inflammation, dehydration, barrier impairment and visible aging. Her focus is not on quick fixes or creating unnecessary inflammation. It is on understanding how your skin is functioning and creating healthier skin for long-term results. HEALTHY, FUNCTIONING SKIN FIRST Angela’s approach is strongly influenced by Corneotherapy, a science-based philosophy focused on preserving and restoring the stratum corneum and supporting the skin’s natural barrier function. When the barrier is intact and supported, hydration improves, collagen is protected, and inflammation reduces and is better controlled, enabling it to repair and respond to treatment. AS YOUR SKIN IMPROVES, ANGELA CONTINUALLY REASSESSES & REFINES YOUR SKINCARE ROUTINE Choosing professional skincare isn’t simply about finding a cleanser, serum or moisturizer based on marketing. Your skin type, barrier function and current skin conditions all influence what is appropriate and those conditions can change. This is why Angela continually reassesses the skin and adjusts home care as it improves. At Skin by Angela, skincare is selected with a purpose, followed up and adjusted based on how your skin responds. SHOP LOCAL. GET PROFESSIONAL GUIDANCE. Purchasing your skincare locally means more than simply buying a product. Rather than trying to navigate thousands of products and conflicting advice online on your own, you have ongoing professional guidance focused on one thing: Getting the best long-term results possible from your skincare. ADVANCED MICRONEEDLING Angela offers Advanced Microneedling to support skin rejuvenation and improve visible signs of aging by reducing fine lines and wrinkles, lifting and firming the skin including jowls, improving skin texture and reducing enlarged pores, pigmentation, acne and scarring. Each treatment is non-thermal and individually customized, including a selection of advanced, nextgeneration professionally formulated solutions based on your skin’s needs and treatment goals. Angela’s approach creates healthy, functioning skin to provide faster healing, reduce inflammation, build the skin barrier, support healthy cellular function, and stimulate new collagen for safe, optimal and long term results. Nearly Four Decades of Experience Corneotherapy-Inspired Barrier-Focused Results-Driven
·
#11-2510 Bevan Avenue, Sidney | 250.655.0221 | www.skinbyangela.com
Small Businesses at the Heart of Community WORDS JACQUIE BELAND, SAANICH PENINSULA CHAMBER OF COMMERCE Small businesses are often described as the backbone of our economy. While that’s true, their impact goes much deeper than dollars and jobs. Small businesses help shape the communities we call home, and at the heart of those businesses are people. They’re the people who own the coffee shop that knows your order, the local retailer who helps you find exactly what you need, the restaurant where you celebrate a milestone, and the service provider you recommend to a neighbour. They employ people in our community, sponsor local sports teams, donate to fundraisers, support community events and are often among the first to step up when help is needed. Here on the Saanich
Peninsula, these businesses and the people behind them are woven into the fabric of our community. Every small business started with someone willing to take a risk on an idea, invest their time and money, and build something here. For many, their business is deeply personal, representing years of hard work, relationships built with customers and employees, and a commitment to the community they choose to serve.
celebrate the people who continue to show up everyday to keep their business going.
Running a small business isn’t easy. Business owners are navigating rising costs, economic uncertainty, changing consumer habits and the everyday challenges that come with wearing so many hats. Small Business Month gives us an opportunity to recognize that work and
At the Saanich Peninsula Chamber of commerce, we’re fortunate to work with businesses and the people behind them throughout our region. We help businesses connect, provide access to resources and information, amplify their voices and advocate for a business
Supporting them doesn’t always require a big gesture. Choosing local when we can makes a difference, but so does recommending a business to a friend, leaving a positive review, sharing their work, attending a local event or simply telling a business owner that you appreciate what they bring to the community.
environment where they can succeed. Those relationships also allow us to listen to what our business community is experiencing and better understand where support is needed. This October, as we celebrate Small Business Month, we are also celebrating the people behind our local businesses and recognize the role they play in making the Saanich Peninsula the community it is. Because when our small businesses thrive, the benefits reach far beyond their doors. They strengthen the entire community. For more information about how the Saanich Peninsula Chamber of Commerce supports our business community, visit www.peninsulachamber.ca.
MARK UNSWORTH
Simply Pure Ice & Water Mark, along with the Simply Pure Ice & Water family on Beacon Ave in Sidney, the Douglas and Hillside stores in Victoria along with the new Duncan store, all share the same mantra: “We’re People Helping People.” Whether it’s someone coming in to inquire about water for their home or business and wanting to know the difference between Reverse Osmosis and Alkaline, to someone coming in for ice and wanting to know how much they’ll need for the event, Mark takes pride in knowing he’ll have the answers to help them make the right decision, whether it’s for in-store pick up or delivery. Mark feels truly at home being out and about, taking full advantage of the great community events happening all year. Whether it’s walking through the Street Market on Beacon Ave, Summer Sounds in Beacon Park, Torque Masters Car Show, walking around the shoreline or at Cy Hampson Park with his wife Sharon and dogs Mathilda Grace and Ruby-Mae, Mark loves having someone call out “Hey! That’s my water guy!”
250.655.8922 | 2305 Beacon Ave, Sidney | Find our other locations at simplypurecanada.com 34 | OCTOBER 2026 | Seaside
KEN DINNADGE Three Point Motors
With nearly a decade in the automotive industry, I’ve built my business on one simple principle: Do the right thing. Every time. INTEGRITY FIRST. I believe in honest advice, transparent pricing and putting your needs first – not a sales quota. You’ll always get straight answers and solutions that make sense for your business. NO PRESSURE. JUST SOLUTIONS. My no-pressure approach means you can explore your options at your own pace. I’m here to educate, guide and support – never to push. A REPUTATION YOU CAN TRUST. I’m proud of the strong relationships I’ve built with business owners, fleet managers and drivers across Vancouver Island. My clients know I’m reachable, responsive and truly care about their success. FIVE-STAR REVIEWS. REAL RESULTS. My commitment to exceptional service shows in the feedback from my customers: “Ken is the real deal. Honest, knowledgeable, and a pleasure to work with. He made our sprinter purchase easy and stress free.” – Google Review LET’S FIND THE RIGHT VEHICLE FOR YOUR BUSINESS. Sprinter vans. Pick up trucks. Built for the way you work.
SPECIALIZING IN • Mercedes-Benz Sprinter Vans (Cargo, Passenger, Crew) • eSprinter – Electric Innovation for Your Business • Leasing, Financing & Fleet Solutions • Upfitting, Shelving & Branding Options • Trade-Ins Welcome
Mercedes-Benz | Three Point Motors
250.813.3500 | kdinnadge@threepointmotors.com | threepointmotors.com
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OUR EXCITING NEWS!
Confident Wealth Advisory Group We are excited to share an important milestone in our journey. VandeRuyt Wealth Management Group is becoming Confident Wealth Advisory Group. Our new name reflects the purpose that has guided us for years: helping clients move forward with clarity, confidence and peace of mind during some of life's most important transitions. While our name has changed, our commitment to our clients and community remains stronger than ever.
WHAT’S IN A NAME? When people feel confident, they can stop worrying about every market headline and start focusing on what matters most to them. They can make important life decisions knowing they have a plan. They can navigate uncertainty with greater clarity and peace of mind. Our role is to help clients build that confidence through thoughtful advice, personalized planning, investment expertise and ongoing support. The word wealth reflects more than financial assets. To us, wealth includes the freedom to make choices, the ability to support family, the opportunity to give back, and the peace of mind that comes from knowing you are prepared for whatever comes next. The word advisory reflects our commitment to relationships. We work alongside our clients as trusted advisors, helping
coordinate their planning for financial, tax, estate and legacy considerations that impact their lives. The transition to Confident Wealth Advisory Group also reflects who we have become as a team. While the VandeRuyt name remains an important part of our story, our success has always been built on the dedication, expertise, and care provided by the entire team, including Wealth Advisors Viola VandeRuyt and Racheal Jamieson, and our client service extraordinaire, Associate Marcus VandeRuyt. Over the years, we have developed a particular passion for supporting women who are navigating financial independence, including widows, those experiencing divorce, and those preparing for retirement on their own. Many of these clients come to us feeling uncertain about the future. Our greatest privilege is helping them move from uncertainty to confidence—creating a financial roadmap that allows them to answer the question, "Will I be OK?" That mission remains at the heart of everything we do. While our name is changing, our values are not. We remain committed to: • Building long-term relationships based on trust and transparency; • Delivering personalized financial advice and investment management;
• Providing guidance through life's important transitions; • Helping clients simplify complexity and make informed decisions; and • Serving our clients, their families, and our community with integrity and care.
Confident Wealth Advisory Group represents more than a new name. It represents our purpose: To help every client feel informed and supported so they can move forward with confidence, clarity and peace of mind about their financial future.
Will I be ok? I know I will be. Introducing Confident Wealth. Wealth advice for those who strive for financial independence, and the freedom to live life on their own terms. Have the clarity to know where you stand, where you’re going, and what’s possible. Learn more at confidentwealthadvisory.ca
Upcoming Seminar: Confident Women Invest with Purpose Helping women turn life experience into financial strength. Thursday, November 26 | 4-6PM Space is limited. RSVP: marcus.vanderuyt@nbc.ca 250-657-2222 Racheal Jamieson, CIM® Wealth Advisor Viola Van de Ruyt, FCSI, CIM Wealth Advisor & Portfolio Manager Marcus Van de Ruyt Associate National Bank Financial - Wealth Management (NBFWM) is a division of National Bank Financial Inc. (NBF), as well as a trademark owned by National Bank of Canada (NBC) that is used under license by NBF. NBF is a member of the Canadian Investment Regulatory Organization (CIRO) and the Canadian Investor Protection Fund (CIPF), and is a wholly-owned subsidiary of NBC, a public company listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange (TSX: NA).
Seaside | OCTOBER 2026 | 37
SEASIDE FLAVOUR Off the Vine
Unsworth Vineyards, Cowichan Valley The Cowichan Valley is one of the smallest wine regions in Canada.
WORDS RICHARD HOPE
38 | OCTOBER 2026 | Seaside
British Columbia has around 12,000 acres under vine, and the valley accounts for fewer than 300 of them. It sits in the rain shadow of the Olympics and the southern Island ranges, which gives it a surprisingly dry growing season for somewhere this green. In 2020 it became a sub-geographical indication, the first in the province outside the Okanagan. Unsworth, on farmland just outside Mill Bay, is now its best-known winery. Tim and Colleen Turyk were a fishing family with no background in wine when they bought 32 acres on Cameron Taggart Road in 2009. They named the winery after Tim's mother's maiden name, planted the vineyard, learned as they went and turned the early1900s farmhouse into a restaurant.
In June 2020, after 18 months of talks, they sold to Barbara Banke and her daughter Julia Jackson of Jackson Family Wines in Sonoma, who bought it personally rather than through the company. The investment is easy to see. A new production facility and tasting room opened last year, the farmhouse restaurant reopened this summer after its own renovation, and output now runs to around 130,000 bottles a year. The awards have followed. The 2023 Saison Pinot Noir and 2023 Chardonnay each took gold and 95 points at the International Wine Challenge in London this year, and the Chardonnay has won gold at the National Wine Awards of Canada in consecutive vintages. Tastings cost $20 to $35, and I took mine on the terrace.
Unsworth Vineyards Charme de l'île Blanc The name nods to both the Charmat method, where the second fermentation happens in a tank rather than a bottle, and to the Island. It isn't really Unsworth's own wine so much as a regional style, made by a number of Cowichan and Salt Spring producers from the cold-hardy white hybrids that do well here. Unsworth's version is zesty and appley and made for a warm afternoon. The rosé, with its red apple and raspberry, is a tasty alternative. Unsworth Vineyards Pinot Gris 2024 A silver medal winner at the National Wine Awards of Canada. White peach and lemon on the nose, then citrus and yellow apple on the palate. Medium bodied with a hit of acidity. It’s a great wine at a sensible price. Unsworth Vineyards Gewürztraminer 2025 Grown on the Saison Vineyard, and a long way from Alsace. This wine has notes of roses and lychee on the nose, peach on the palate, and none of the oily weight that can be typical of this grape. It’s a delicate wine that is great just out of the fridge.
Unsworth Vineyards Chardonnay 2024 I have recommended Unsworth's Chardonnay for years, and this vintage keeps me on side, though the style has changed. The winery has dialed back ripeness and alcohol, leaving pear and a light touch of vanilla. Great for easy drinking on the terrace, this is my go-to wine to showcase some of the best products from B.C.
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Unsworth Vineyards Saison Pinot Noir 2019 Pinot Noir is a notoriously difficult grape to get right. Its thin skins and tightly-packed bunches leave it prone to rot and disease, so it needs a long, even season with no extremes, which is exactly what the valley provides. Unsworth has put most of its effort into the grape since the sale, and the Saison is the flagship, with notes of deep red cherry and blackberry on the palate.
CRAFTEDFARMHOUSEMARKET.CA
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In 2022, Blue Grouse down the road was acquired by other members of the Jackson family, meaning that the valley’s two most ambitious wineries now have the resources to produce world class wines. This flight proved that Unsworth is well on its way to producing truly world class wines. If you go: 2915 Cameron Taggart Road, Mill Bay, about 45 minutes north of Victoria. The tasting room and restaurant open daily from 11 a.m. and are booked separately. Book ahead at weekends.
SIDNEY PIER HOTEL 9805 Seaport Place, Sidney 250-888-7202 | bunyaad.com Seaside | OCTOBER 2026 | 39
RE-ELECT
SARAH RIDDELL
CENTRAL SAANICH COUNCIL WWW.SARAHRIDDELL.CA
AuthorisedbyKathrynClinton,FinancialAgent,kclinton660@gmal.com
Thoughtfully Curated Holiday Celebrations AVAILABLE NOVEMBER 15 TO DECEMBER 30
Celebrate the holidays at Brentwood Bay Resort with a festive brunch or lunch in The Arbutus Room, or gather privately for dinner in our Garden Room. Enjoy seasonal menus, festive details and thoughtful vendor support — all designed to make your holiday celebrations seamless. Whether you’re heading back to the office or extending the festivities, we have everything you need to make your holiday party one to remember. Photo credit: Fleur de Liv Photography
40 | OCTOBER 2026 | Seaside
849 Verdier Ave, Brentwood Bay
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SEASIDE LIVING
The Impact of Chinese Electric Vehicles on the Canadian Automotive Market WORDS KEN DINNADGE, THREE POINT MOTORS Chinese EV manufacturers such as BYD, NIO, XPeng and Zeekr are expanding globally and could significantly influence the Canadian automotive market through competitive pricing, advanced technology and rapid innovation.
Benefits for Canadian Consumers Increased competition could provide: • More affordable EVs • Improved technology • Longer driving range
Lower Prices and Greater Consumer Choice
• Faster charging
A key advantage of Chinese EVs is affordability. Many models are priced below comparable North American and European vehicles, potentially making EV ownership more accessible.
Competition is likely to drive better value and performance across the market.
• More model choices
Looking Ahead
Canadian consumers may benefit from: • Lower purchase prices • Greater vehicle availability • Increased competition • Faster innovation
vehicles to reduce operating costs and meet sustainability goals.
Increased Pressure on Established Automakers
Chinese manufacturers offer:
Automakers including Ford, General Motors, Stellantis, Mercedes-Benz, Volkswagen and Toyota have invested heavily in EV development. Lower-cost Chinese competitors may push them to reduce prices, improve technology and bring products to market faster.
• Light commercial vehicles
While consumers may benefit, manufacturers could face added pressure from higher production costs and complex supply chains.
• Electric cargo vans • Delivery vehicles • Fleet management technologies These options could help accelerate fleet electrification by lowering costs and expanding vehicle choices. Challenges and Opportunities for Canadian Dealerships
Opportunities in Commercial Fleet Electrification
New EV brands create opportunities for dealerships to attract customers and expand offerings, but they also increase competition and pressure margins.
Canadian businesses are increasingly adopting electric
To remain competitive, dealers will need to emphasize:
• Customer experience • Service excellence • Product expertise • Financing solutions • Fleet support programs Government Policy and Trade Considerations Canadian policymakers must balance EV adoption with domestic manufacturing interests and trade priorities. Key issues include: • Import tariffs • Vehicle safety standards • Supply chain security • Battery sourcing requirements • Environmental regulations Government decisions will strongly influence the pace of Chinese EV market entry.
Chinese EV manufacturers have already disrupted markets in Europe, Asia and South America. If they gain significant traction in Canada, they could reshape pricing, technology, dealership strategies and consumer expectations. Greater competition is likely to accelerate innovation and expand EV accessibility for Canadians. Automotive professionals, fleet operators, and dealerships will need to adapt to a rapidly changing market. Chinese EV manufacturers present both opportunities and challenges for Canada’s automotive sector. Their entry could lower prices, encourage innovation and increase EV adoption while intensifying competition for established automakers and dealerships. As the market evolves, consumers, businesses and policymakers will need to stay informed and adaptable. Decisions made in the coming years will shape the long-term impact of Chinese EVs in Canada. Seaside | OCTOBER 2026 | 41
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Condo Living
Designed for life beyond the front door. Leaving a single-family home usually means trading away space, and often the neighbours along with it. At Coast, now selling on Sidney’s waterfront, GMC Projects set out to design a building that gives back both. Ask anyone who has moved from a house into a condo what they miss, and the answer is rarely the lawn. It is the room to host at Christmas, the spare bedroom for grandchildren, the garden and the neighbour who keeps an eye on things during the weeks away. Coast, a limited collection of 46 waterfront residences on Lochside Drive, was drawn around exactly that problem.
Single-family home-inspired interiors
It begins with the homes. The one, two and three-bedroom residences at Coast were designed with the proportions of a single-family home rather than the compact efficiencies of most condominiums, with interiors up to 2,100 square feet, real dining rooms, guest bedrooms, and patios and terraces deep enough to furnish. What the homes leave behind is the upkeep, which on the Peninsula means gutters, moss and cedar that needs attention every spring. The library, curated by Tanner’s, is a quiet space for reading and relaxing, and a nod to a town that takes its bookshops seriously. The games room is built for the evenings that run long, and the fitness centre is equipped to keep the routine going once the weather turns. All three were designed with the same attention as the residences. On the ground floor, the lobby and lounge were designed as a place to pause with a coffee. Above, the rooftop holds an outdoor kitchen, entertaining areas and a green with a bocce court. Between them, residents have somewhere to host a birthday and somewhere to catch up with a neighbour.
Beacon Avenue, with its shops, bakeries and restaurants, is a ten-minute walk north. Within the building, homes are grouped into two collections. The Tidal Collection looks out over the Salish Sea and the islands, while the Leeward Collection takes in the treelined neighbourhood and Peninsula vistas to the west. Coast is selling now, with construction expected to begin in late 2026. The Presentation Centre on Lochside Drive is open regular hours and by private appointment. To learn more, visit coastresidences.ca.
Coast also puts the water within easy reach. Residents have the use of kayaks and paddleboards, the Lochside Trail and the Waterfront Walkway run past the building toward Sidney and the Peninsula beyond, and Tulista and Iroquois parks are steps away.
Seaside | OCTOBER 2026 | 43
SEASIDE STORIES Globehopping
Pedalling Pender It’s fun to do things once a year! It may give you something to look forward to, something to train for, a reason to connect with friends or even to do something solo. It’s not too frequent, but it’s often enough to be a highlight in your year.
WORDS & PHOTOS STEPHANIE STAPLES I have a great group of fit and adventurous friends, and for the last few years we have planned a summer overnight excursion that necessitates some serious bakerypowered energy! Together we’ve done the Kusam Klimb hike, the three-ferry Salt Spring bicycle tour and cycled Mayne Island, and this year we decided to tackle North and South Pender Island by bike. We’ve discovered that even though we can do things faster, we don’t want to! Taking our time by adding an overnight stay turns it into more of a girl’s getaway rather than a musclethrough event. We take turns planning, booking and suggesting our trips and, most importantly, we’re very skilled at going with the flow, which makes everything more pleasant! We took the very reasonable 8:30 a.m. ferry to Pender – a 44 | OCTOBER 2026 | Seaside
42-minute jaunt that landed us at Otter Bay on North Pender with plenty of time to meander and get a little lost – which we typically do. Though there is not a huge ask as far as the number of kilometres go, don’t let that fool you as Pender is very hilly. In fact, most people we encountered were smiling up the hills on their e-bikes and I felt like we got more than a couple nods of respect for plowing up these hills strictly on our “me-powered” bikes! Add an afternoon of unpredicted rain and wow, I’d pretty much call us heroes! We managed to squeeze in much of the Island, including: wonderful views at Port Washington, Hope Bay for the great art gallery and Pender Chocolates, the very interesting and educational Pender Islands Museum, Port Browning’s Driftwood Centre with shops
and a bakery, and fabulous views throughout the trip. We stayed at Poet’s Cove on South Pender, arriving like four drowned rats. The hot tub, our rooms with fireplaces and chow at Syrens Bistro & Lounge were very welcome, indeed. That evening we solved the problem of relatively small rooms by entertaining more than a few folks while playing charades in the cozy lobby. By morning we, and our gear, were nice and dry and the weather gods were in our favour, so off we went up, up, up and down, down, down to Gowlland Point where we summoned the whales, to no avail. Aside from being with some really stellar humans, challenging my body with those hills and seeing some incredible vistas, the highlight for me was Southridge Farms Country Store and Picnic
Park. This little gem may ask you to take a slight detour, but it’s well worth it – the store carries a very unique variety of groceries and many handmade products made by co-owner Amanda, who is a professionally trained chef. Add to that a delicious food truck and, most importantly to us, the community-focused games and picnic area. Co-owner Rob encouraged us to linger and play and boy we did play – I think we spent over 90 minutes there (pre-rain) playing giant Jenga, Connect Four, ping pong, tetherball and cornhole – there were so many games we didn’t even make a dent in them, but we sure did laugh a lot! We hopped on the 3 p.m. ferry back to Schwartz Bay, rounding out our mini-vacay full of memories, a little sore and mostly pretty proud that we explored Pender with our own pedal power. However you choose to visit Pender, it will be time well spent!
Let Us Help You Sleep Bet ter! 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.
All Sizes and Types • Restwell (BC Made) King Coil • Murphy & Chest Beds • Adjustable Bases Bedroom Furniture • RV and Marine Custom
INVENTORY REDUCTION SALE! SEE WEBSITE FOR DETAILS
Visit us today, Mon - Sat 10am to 5pm and by appointment outside regular hours 1A - 2353 Bevan Avenue, Sidney 778-351-2113 • sidneymattress.com
Seaside | OCTOBER 2026 | 45
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.
2315 MILLS ROAD, SIDNEY AMICA.CA/BEECHWOOD-VILLAGE
SEASIDE LIVING Inside Out Have you ever come home from a family gathering or dinner with friends feeling surprisingly exhausted? Maybe you enjoyed yourself, but by the end of the evening, you were ready for some peace and quiet. For some people, the culprit isn't the socializing itself – it’s the effort required to hear.
HEARING TAKES BRAINPOWER When hearing is clear, our brains can quickly recognize and understand speech without much conscious effort. But when hearing becomes more difficult, the brain has to work harder to fill in the gaps. You may find yourself concentrating intensely on the person speaking, watching their face for visual clues, guessing words that you didn't quite catch, and trying to ignore competing conversations and background noise. You are still hearing – but listening has become work.
WHY NOISY PLACES CAN BE EXHAUSTING Restaurants, family gatherings
and social events can be particularly challenging. There may be several conversations happening at once, dishes clattering, music playing and people speaking from different directions.
Listening Fatigue:
Even if you can follow the conversation, doing so may require much more concentration than it used to. By the end of the evening, you may feel mentally drained. You might become quieter, lose your concentration or simply want to leave earlier than you normally would. This is sometimes called listening fatigue.
IT'S EASY TO MISTAKE THE SIGNS Listening fatigue doesn't always feel like a hearing problem. You may simply think you're tired, distracted or not particularly social that day. Over time, however, you may start avoiding certain situations because they have become difficult or exhausting. You might decline invitations to busy restaurants, struggle to keep up with group conversations, or prefer speaking with
The Hidden Cost of Hearing Loss
WORDS AISLING SMYTH, LICENSED AUDIOLOGIST, OWNER, SOUND AUDIOLOGY CLINIC people one-on-one. Your family may notice these changes before you do.
WHAT CAN HELP? The good news is that you don't necessarily have to “try harder” to hear. Simple communication strategies can make a difference. Moving to a quieter area, facing the person speaking, reducing background noise and making sure you have good lighting can all help. And if hearing loss is contributing to the problem, a comprehensive hearing assessment can help identify where you're having difficulty.
Depending on your hearing and communication needs, hearing aids or other assistive technology may reduce the amount of effort required to follow everyday conversations. Hearing shouldn't leave you exhausted. If you regularly find yourself mentally drained after conversations, especially in noisy environments, it may be worth asking whether your hearing is making listening harder than it needs to be. Sometimes the most important sign of hearing loss isn't that you can't hear – it’s that hearing has started to feel like hard work. www.soundaudiology.net
Seaside | OCTOBER 2026 | 47
LOVE
YOUR LOCAL THE GENTLEMEN'S CAVE 2481 Sidney Avenue, Sidney This year, we celebrate our fifth anniversary so we simply want to take a moment to say THANK YOU ALL! Thank you for your loyalty, your kind words, and your referrals. Thank you for all the wonderful gifts, the stories and the laughter. Thank you for the tasting tests and the countless bottles of wine. Thank you for the books you’ve loved and shared with us, and for telling us about your travels and inspiring our future adventures.
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. We have expanded our in-house services and now manufacture solid surface countertops.
250.412.3472 deepcovecustoms.com 9544 Aurora Pl, N Saanich (call for appt.)
Thank you for bringing your furry buddies to see us ... whom we absolutely love to spoil! Most of all, thank you for allowing us to be a small part of your lives. It is an honour and a privilege to take care of you, your dads and your sons. Your loyalty gives us wings and encourages us to continually provide the highest quality of service – whether it’s a haircut, a hot shave, a beard trim or a hair replacement service. We do what we do with passion and professionalism because of you. The Gentlemen’s Cave is not just a barbershop. It is a place where we share moments, create memories, build friendships, and become a little bit like family. With gratitude and appreciation, Your devoted barbers, Bella, Andre, Emberly, Dave, Rachelle & Emma
MODERN HEARING CARE NOW IN YOUR COMMUNITY
• Independent & Locally Owned • 20+ Years Experience • Personalized Hearing Care HEARING CLINIC • Experienced Professionals HEARING CLINIC • Advanced Technology
SIDNEY
SIDNEY
WELCOMING NEW PATIENTS
Tues-Sat 11am-5:30pm • Closed Sun & Mon
www.sidneyhearingclinic.ca
Garden Court 105-2360 Beacon Ave 778.351.2773 hansellhalkett.com
2440 Bevan Ave, Sidney • 778.351.2222
You are investing in your community by supporting its unique businesses. Appreciate what makes our neighbourhoods different. Our one-of-a-kind shops and services are an inherent part of the distinctive character of our Saanich Peninsula neighbourhoods; that is what brought us here and will keep us here. Stay local and stay connected to the merchants in your community.
Recovering and Refurbishing Your Outdoor Furniture www.nancysewcreative.ca 250.655.1257 • nancysewcreative@gmail.com
Experience Seaside Cabinetry & Design, a boutique cabinet showroom in downtown Sidney. We provide custom designs with meticulous detail and lifetime warranties. Let’s discover your style.
Showroom Visits by Appointment 250.812.4304 | 9715 First St, Sidney SeasideCabinetry.ca
SIDNEY HEARING CLINIC 2440 Bevan Avenue, Sidney Catherine Zieniewicz has spent more than 20 years helping people understand and navigate changes in their hearing. Now, she’s bringing that experience to her own independently owned practice, Sidney Hearing Clinic. Fully licensed by the College of Health and Care Professionals of BC, Catherine gathered her experience through education and experience. Her approach is simple: listen carefully, explain things clearly, and recommend only what makes sense for each individual. That independence matters. Sidney Hearing Clinic isn’t tied to a single hearing aid manufacturer, so Catherine can choose from a wide range of leading brands based on a person’s hearing, lifestyle, preferences and budget. She then programs and finetunes each device around the way that person actually lives.
BOOK AT: 250 533-1177 or thegentlemenscave.ca
2481 Sidney Avenue, Sidney BC V8L 1Y8 Haircut - Beard & Mustache trim Shaves - Hair Replacement Colouration
The clinic offers comprehensive hearing tests, fitting hearing aids, custom hearing protection, ongoing adjustments, care and support. Patients see Catherine throughout their care, creating a level of continuity that can be hard to find in larger clinics. Appointments are unhurried, questions are encouraged and people have time to understand their options and make decisions without pressure. For Catherine, good hearing care starts with understanding the person – not simply the hearing test. Everything else follows from there. 778.351.2222 sidneyhearingclinic.ca
SEASIDE STORIES Arts Scene
Lorna Crozier:
Prolific Poet of the Peninsula
She could be your next-door neighbour. Like many of us who live on the Peninsula, she does everyday tasks such as cooking, doing the laundry and puttering about in her garden. WORDS JO BARNES PHOTOS SARAH HARTLEY PHOTOGRAPHY
50 | OCTOBER 2026 | Seaside
However, this particular neighbour is a recipient of the Governor General Award and Officer of the Order of Canada for her poetry.
imagination. “I try to capture the feeling, the place, or the landscape,” says Lorna. “I want to encourage people not to take what they see for granted.”
North Saanich resident and acclaimed poet, Lorna Crozier, certainly appreciates the beauty of the West Coast landscape that we all share, but what is remarkable has been her ability to capture what she sees and convey it in words that carry such impact.
Her poetic talents have taken her around the globe to give poetry readings and recently to serve as official travelling poet of the magazine Toque and Canoe.
“Poets are not airy-fairy people. I’m as pragmatic as the next person. I weed the garden, cook and do laundry,” shares Lorna. “People assume artists are a different sort; this is a myth. We try to put into words what we see and hear so it can be understood by someone else.” The extensive list of awards and recognition Lorna has received over the years would suggest such an attempt to translate her perception into impactful poetry has been more than successful. Whether she writes about jellyfish and jumping frogs or living and loving, it is the details of the world around her that steal her attention and stir her
“I do travel pieces for Toque and Canoe. I wrote one on Sidney; another on the Great Bear Rainforest. In July, I spent one week at Cape Dorset or Kinngait near Baffin Island,” says Lorna. “Since it’s an online magazine, it has a strict word limit. Poetry is an attempt at brevity, and I can bring that skill to this writing.” Often her creations prompt wonder and surprise. In the book The House the Spirit Builds, she offers readers the image of a toad with “its bumpy haiku-density” or a sunflower as “giraffe of flowers.” Lorna can also find the humour in the everyday such her unusual portrayal of plants in The Sex Lives of Vegetables or convey the poignant experiences of life as shared in her memoir
Frasier Fir: the iconic scent for Fall & Winter
The Dancing Orchid
Through the Garden: A Love Story (with Cats). While some might view the world of poetry as removed from day-to-day living, Lorna reminds us that it is an outlet for everyday self-expression. “Poetry connects us and leads us through,” says Lorna. “It opens its arms to you and should not push you away.” The process of writing is never straightforward, but for Lorna, the journey often is the reward. “Poetry is the realm of mystical and magical. There are no rules to write a good poem,” notes Lorna. “There is no recipe, and you’re not sure where you’re going to end up when you write.” Regardless of rules or recipes, Lorna has definitely spent time composing words on the page. As well as authoring 23 books of poetry, two memoirs and three children’s books, she has also edited various written works. Lorna has received three lifetime achievement awards, including the George Woodcock Award and the BC Lieutenant Governor’s Award for Literary Excellence. Moreover, she has mentored and inspired others to write. She taught Poetry for over 20 years at the University of Victoria where she received recognition as a UVic Distinguished Professor. However, even Lorna acknowledges creativity takes effort and requires pushing your creative limits. “Why do I write? Well, I like the difficulty of doing
it. When you start to write the next poem, this is challenging. You have to raise the bar of your craft and not repeat yourself,” she comments. “I want to surprise myself or my poems won’t surprise the reader.”
250.656.1318 | #104 - 2537 Beacon Ave, Sidney | www.dancingorchid.ca
Garden City TM
Tree & Landscape
Paying attention to the world around her and expressing this in poetry has brought blessings. “I see things with more vibrancy. Poetry enriches me,” shares Lorna. “It is a calling and a passion and has made my life deeper.” Newcomers to poetry writing might feel overwhelmed, but Lorna offers encouragement. “Read, read, read, read” she says. “Find a class in writing, have courage to go learn what you can, and get together with others interested and share what you are writing.” Creativity began early for Lorna, writing her first poem at the age of five. Now, although many decades have passed since that first effort, she’s not ready to put away her pen and is busy as ever writing, teaching, and still travelling to new sites. "I am working on some new collections of poetry that will be published with McClellan and Stewart next year," she states. Lorna might poke fun at produce, carry you along in the rhythm of rain or simply startle you with a simple phrase, but this Peninsula neighbour will always gift you with a piece of herself in her poetry. www.lornacrozier.ca
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SEASIDE LIVING Everyday Mental Health
The People Along the Way WORDS NATASHA JACKSON, CPHR, PSYCHOLOGICAL HEALTH & SAFETY PROFESSIONAL AND WORKPLACE HEALTH CONSULTANT You know that feeling when you realize you've reached the age where your conversations have completely changed? At 30, my friends and I talked about weddings, first homes, and whether we could survive on instant noodles until payday. At 50, we're discussing reading glasses, physiotherapy appointments, retirement planning, aging parents, and whether we should all be taking more magnesium. It's a different season of life. And honestly? It's kind of wonderful. As I prepare to celebrate my 50th birthday this month, I've found myself reflecting on the last 20 years. Not in a dramatic "what's the meaning of life?" kind of way. More in a "how did 20 years disappear so quickly?" kind of way. One minute I was attending everyone's wedding. The next minute, their kids were graduating. I swear there should have been more warning. As I've been looking back, something unexpected keeps coming to mind: the people. Not the job titles. Not the organizational charts. Not the things that used to keep me awake at night and that I can't even remember now. The people. Many of the most important relationships in my life started
at work, which is funny when you think about it. You show up on your first day hoping someone will explain how to use the printer, and 20 years later they're helping you navigate life's biggest joys and hardest moments. We often talk about work as a source of stress. And let's be honest, work can absolutely be stressful. Deadlines. Budgets. Inboxes that somehow reproduce overnight. Meetings that could have been emails. Emails that probably shouldn't have been sent at all. But that's not the whole story. For many of us, work is also where life happens. It's where we find mentors, friends, and people who understand exactly what we're going through because they're living it too. It's where coworkers become trusted confidants. Where someone notices you seem a bit off before you've even realized it yourself. Where people celebrate your successes, sit beside you through losses, and quietly check in when life feels heavy. Looking back, I can barely remember some of the projects I spent months working on, yet I vividly remember the people. I remember laughing until I cried in staff rooms. The conversations in hallways that
somehow turned into lifelong friendships. The colleagues who became part of my chosen family. The people who stood beside each other through career changes, caregiving responsibilities, aging parents, health challenges, celebrations, and all the twists and turns life throws our way. When experts talk about social determinants of health, they often focus on things like housing, income, education and access to healthcare. Those things matter. A lot. But I think belonging deserves a place in that conversation too. Humans are wired for connection. We need purpose. We need community. We need people. For many of us, work provides all three. Not because the work itself is always exciting. Let’s be honest: nobody wakes up thinking "I can't wait to update that spreadsheet." Well, maybe somebody does. But not me. What keeps us coming back are the relationships, the shared purpose, and the feeling that what we do matters to someone. My grandmother had a saying I think about often: "When you're 20, you think everyone is talking about you. When you're 40, you don't care if they're talking about you. And when you're 60, you realize
nobody was talking about you in the first place." The older I get, the more I understand what she meant. Life becomes less about impressing people and more about appreciating them. Less about achievements and more about connections. Less about climbing ladders and more about looking around and noticing who's climbing alongside you. As I turn 50, I find myself feeling grateful. Grateful for the friendships I didn't know I was going to make. Grateful for the people who showed up. Grateful for the colleagues who became lifelong friends. And grateful for all the ordinary moments that didn't seem particularly important at the time but somehow became the moments that mattered most. The truth is, some of the greatest gifts of the last 20 years weren't accomplishments or titles – they were people. Many of them I met at work. And if health is about living a meaningful life, then those relationships have contributed more to my health than I ever realized. So here's my question for you: When you think about the last 20 years, who are the people who unexpectedly became part of your story? And have you told them lately?
Seaside | OCTOBER 2026 | 53
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Featured Property 8585 Lochside Drive, North Saanich | $3,250,000 Rare low-bank waterfront living with sweeping ocean views, refined coastal design, and direct beach access. ∙ Panoramic views across Haro Strait to the Gulf Islands & Sidney ∙ Beautifully renovated by GT Mann Contracting ∙ Walls of windows & exceptional waterfront entertaining spaces ∙ Detached guest cottage with loft, garage & workshop ∙ Landscaped grounds leading directly to the beach with private mooring buoy
CHACE WHITSON R E A L E S TAT E G R O U P
SEASIDE FLAVOUR From the Kitchen
TACO TUESDAY
I love tacos, as I’m all about condiments. For me, taco fillings are just a conduit for all of the good things you pile on top. WORDS JOAN SAUNDERS PHOTOS SARAH HARTLEY PHOTOGRAPHY And the bonus with this recipe? These tacos are pretty darn healthy. And vegetarian. Every time I make this meal (and it’s been many, many times) I’m always surprised by how good they are. What’s also great about tacos is that people can add whatever toppings they prefer. I love pickled jalapeños and I’m not afraid of a bit of spice, so I usually pile them on. The coolness of the avocado and the creaminess of the feta as it melts adds to the overall flavour. Just remember to make the onions before you start everything else, so they have time to marinate in the pickling mixture. You can add or subtract the red pepper flakes as desired. I usually just shake on a little bit of the pepper, as I figure
56 | OCTOBER 2026 | Seaside
that people can augment the mixture to their own preferred level of spiciness with the pickled jalapeños. Some recipes I’ve looked at don’t ask you to heat up the black beans, but I like hot food to be hot, so a little time in the microwave or on the stove adds to the overall mixture. But you can always just squeeze the lime juice over the beans, add the crispy cooked cauliflower and gently blend them together, then you’re ready to go. Finally, place all of the lovely condiments out on the table with the cauliflower mix and warm soft taco shells and let people create their own tasty extravaganza. And for me, whether it’s a Tuesday or not, I’m always happy to indulge in these terrific cauliflower tacos.
TERRIFIC CAULIFLOWER TACOS Pickled Red Onion 4 tbsp red wine vinegar 3 tbsp water ½ tsp sugar 1 tsp kosher salt 1 red onion, sliced thinly Cauliflower filling 3-4 tbsp olive oil 1 large or two small heads of cauliflower, trimmed of leaves and chopped into small chunks. Can chop up the core as well. red pepper flakes (to own taste) 1 tsp kosher salt 1 ½ tsp ground cumin 1 lime, halved 1 398 ml can black beans, drained and rinsed soft corn or flour tortillas (use small or medium, depending on preference) 1 avocado, thinly sliced ¾ cup crumbled feta cheese (amount as desired) pickled jalapeños, sliced up a bit chopped fresh cilantro
Preheat the oven to 450°. First, pickle the onion. In a bowl, combine vinegar, water, sugar and salt. Add onion; toss to coat. Set aside until needed, to give it time to pickle. Coat a large, rimmed baking sheet with 3 tbsp of olive oil. Add chopped cauliflower to pan. Make sure you’ve chopped it small enough so it’s a good size for a taco filling. Sprinkle cauliflower with the kosher salt, a little bit of red pepper flakes (if you want a bit more spice;
can omit if not desired) and cumin. If you feel more olive oil is needed, add another tbsp. Mix all together, then spread cauliflower out on the pan. Roast for 15 minutes, then toss cauliflower pieces. Roast for another 10-15 minutes so cauliflower is cooked on all sides and takes on a nice brown crispiness. While cauliflower is cooking, drain and rinse black beans; put them in a bowl that is big enough for beans and cauliflower. Squeeze juice from half a lime over the black beans in the bowl. Just before cauliflower is done, heat beans in microwave for a few minutes so they’re warm. If you don’t have a microwave, heat them on the stove top gently in a pot, then put back in the bowl. Heat up tortillas in oven wrapped in foil for 5-7 minutes, or char them in a dry frying pan on the stovetop. Keep warm until ready to assemble tacos. While cauliflower is cooking, prepare the other condiments. Slice up the avocado, put out the feta cheese and chop up the pickled jalapeños and cilantro. Then, along with the pickled onions, place condiments out for people to prepare their own tacos. When the cauliflower is cooked, add it to the bowl with the warmed black beans and mix gently. Assemble tacos: scoop the cauliflower-bean mix into a warmed tortilla. Add avocado, pickled red onion, feta cheese, cilantro and pickled jalapenos (as desired). Serve with lime wedges to squeeze some juice over the mix. Enjoy.
Adapted and combined from: www.cozydelicious.com/ roasted-cauliflower-and-black-bean-tacos/ www.smittenkitchen.com/2020/10/simple-cauliflower-tacos/
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SEASIDE STORIES Charity Connections
Inspiring Stewardship that Unites People and Place Swan Lake Nature Sanctuary is a charitable, non-profit organization responsible for the care of 171 acres of land, water, infrastructure and trails just six kilometres from downtown Victoria.
WORDS & PHOTOS CARA GIBSON, EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR, SWAN LAKE NATURE SANCTUARY
The Nature Sanctuary includes the wetland around Swan Lake and the kwetlal – ḰȽO,EL – camas - oak meadow food system on Christmas Hill. Lekwungenspeaking peoples of the Songhees and Kosapsum Nations and SENĆOŦENspeaking W ̱ SÁNEĆ Peoples have stewarded these lands since time immemorial. Swan Lake Nature Sanctuary is a critical habitat for migratory birds, native plants and other rare and threatened wildlife within an urban envelope. Accessibly located near Pat Bay Highway and McKenzie Avenue with three public bus stops and the Lochside Trail nearby, this specially zoned conservation area provides millions of dollars in ecosystem services and wellness in the
region – from urban heat island mitigation, floodwater management and fresh air filtration to climate resilience learning as well as other recreational enjoyment. Annually, the Nature Sanctuary hosts 100,000 visitors on our five kilometres of trail, including an easy walking 2.5km loop around the lake, with a floating bridge and lookout points to enjoy the serenity of nature. We also have an interpretive Nature House with a rentable classroom, library and educational exhibit spaces. In a typical year, we reach 15,000 learners and 19,000 Nature House visitors with the support of 300 engaged volunteers and eight staff. The District of Saanich supports approximately 30% of operations and offers capital support at times. The
remainder of our operational and capital funding comes from generous donors, volunteers, members, grants and program fees. Since 1975, the educational programs at Swan Lake Nature Sanctuary have actively engaged community to help learn and share skills for species identification, habitat restoration and conservation. Events and learning opportunities for children, families, seniors and the general public are listed in our events calendar. We approach our work and program offerings through a Two-Eyed Seeing Relational Ecology framework. This means that we weave Indigenous and Western knowledges and that we celebrate our integrated
communities not as passive visitors, but as essential to our overall eco-culture. This intentional reciprocal care between people and place cultivates a self-sustaining, resilient future for all. An example of this is our Ecological Restoration meetups that have run continuously since the late 1970s. One of the very first offerings of its kind in the region, participants drop in casually to engage in year-round, weekly hands-on opportunities and develop ecological restoration awareness and skills while building a sense of belonging to place and people. To learn more, get involved or sign up for our e-newsletter visit www.swanlake.bc.ca, follow us on all socials @SwanLakeNature or email us at info@swanlake.bc.ca. Seaside | OCTOBER 2026 | 59
TREAT STREET - WHAT TO EXPECT Sidney’s favourite Halloween tradition returns on Saturday, October 31, when downtown Sidney transforms into Treat Street. From 4:30 pm to 6 pm, families are invited to dress up and trick-or-treat their way through the heart of town. Presented by the Downtown Sidney Business Association in partnership with Peninsula Celebrations Society, Treat Street brings local businesses and the community together for a fun and festive Halloween evening. Expect downtown Sidney to be filled with costumes, treats, and plenty of Halloween spirit as participating businesses welcome little ghosts, goblins, princesses, superheroes, and more. Streets will be closed to traffic during the event, giving families space to explore downtown and make their way from business to business and station to station. Whether it’s an annual family tradition or your first time joining in, grab your costumes and treat bags and head downtown for one of Sidney’s most-loved Halloween events. Be sure to follow @ExploreSidney and check back as October 31 approaches for participating businesses, event updates, and everything you need to plan your visit.
SEASIDE STORIES Off the Land
South Island FarmHub:
From Field to Farmer to the Front Door Everywhere you look, there’s freshpicked local fruits and vegetables, delicious artisan breads and baked goods. There’s nothing like filling your baskets at the local farmer’s market ... with the click of a button?! WORDS JO BARNES PHOTOS SARAH HARTLEY PHOTOGRAPHY Since spring of 2020, the South Island FarmHub, an online farmers market platform, has been making fresh, nutritious food accessible by being just a click away for everyone in the community. “The opportunity for individual households and other non profits and charities to shop through a marketplace for locally grown food; this has always been a missed opportunity,” shares Colleen Popyk, General Manager. “We are a full-time produce aggregation and distribution centre. It is an alternative to shop local for those with an inability to get to the market. Instead, the market comes to you!” The concept of an online farm hub originated during Covid, when farmers were desperately trying to get their harvests to market and consumers were impacted by disruptions with food supply chains. “When Covid hit, farmers were in a
panic, restaurants were shutting down and there was a great need for a sales and distribution avenue,” says Colleen. There was post-harvest availability of food, but the issue was how to get it to the community. Two organizations, the Victoria Community Food Hub Society (VCFHS) and the Capital Region Food and Agriculture Initiatives Roundtable (CRFAIR), were already hard at work promoting a healthy food system in our region. The timing was ideal. “The idea of local food economy and online sales, distribution and delivery had been percolating for some time,” remarks Colleen. “So, VCFHS applied to The Victoria Foundation for funding of a contact list, marketplace, distribution service, farmers online market and staffing. The application was successful.” Since inception, South Island FarmHub has dramatically
grown in volume and outreach programs. “We started with several anchor farms including Kildara Farms, Northstar Farm, Sun Trio and Saanich Organics,” says Colleen. “Now we’re up to 80 producers including farmers, fishers, ranchers and local processors.” South Island FarmHub works with numerous growers and producers in the Capital Regional District. It offers many programs. First, it offers a home delivery program which includes subscription harvest and island meat boxes and online à la carte ordering. Second, it features the Farmbucks program which subsidizes local food from its online shop to enhance food access for community organizations. Finally, there is wholesale ordering for local catering groups, restaurants and institutions. Organizations participating and benefitting from the program include seniors’ groups such as James Bay New Horizons and schools including Reynolds Secondary, Esquimalt High, and Edward Milne Community School in Sooke. Not only is fresh food getting into the hands of more people throughout the South Island area, but local food security, accessibility, and sustainability is being promoted. “Farmbucks is connecting farmers and their produce to school culinary programs,” remarks Colleen. “Students cook and create with crops that grow in our region. They learn about the freshness and quality of local produce, sustainable food growing and local food security. These are important tools in the student’s learning toolbox.” The initial seed of idea has grown and produced a bounty of not only fresh food but improved food accessibility. According to the FarmHub’s website: “The Farmbucks program has distributed over $726,000 of locally grown, fished and made food.” Laura Gair, Director of Food Security and Resource
Development for the FarmHub, VCFHS, and CRFAIR, lays out the organization’s foundational philosophy. “Everyone deserves healthy food. It's wrapped in so many aspects of life; physical health but also mental wellness, social and cultural connection. It's about affordability, accessibility and equity. We need change at a systems level to really bring about sustainable, longterm improvement, and that involves collaborating with farmers, levels of government, other organizations and community members.” A longtime food programs coordinator, Laura heard about the work of the South Island FarmHub and joined the team in 2021. “I understand first hand the challenges for charities wanting to provide quality, healthy foods for their participants, and knowing the nutrition and environmental benefits of buying local produce, but facing budgetary and time constraints,” she says. “I really admired the innovation of the Farmbucks program and reached out to get involved.” The efforts of FarmHub require logistical planning and dedication, but the team are all motivated by the potential for positive change in our community. Heather Vandenengel, Marketing and Sales Coordinator, shares: “I really love working with the FarmHub. Through our Farmbucks program, we're able to connect charity and school programs with local, fresh produce. The feedback we hear from participants is really heartening. You can just see the difference that quality food can make.” Members of the community can also get involved in the effort by either purchasing food on South Island FarmHub’s website, making a monetary donation or supporting participating local farmers. Community access to nutritious food; it’s just a click away. www.sifarmhub.ca
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SEASIDE LIVING The Natural Path If you are new to healthy eating, or just trying to stay back on the wagon, you may be wondering how to stay healthy on a holiday where the food is the main event. Well, my official ND answer is ... you should enjoy it! Healthy eating doesn’t mean turning Thanksgiving dinner into a sad plate of white meat and steamed vegetables while everyone else digs into the stuffing. In fact, a truly healthy relationship with food includes room for celebration and tradition. So if our goal isn’t perfect eating, how exactly do we enjoy the feast while still supporting our long term health goals? Here’s your game plan: Don’t “Save Calories” All Day. Rookie mistake. It sounds logical, but arriving at dinner absolutely ravenous makes it much harder to make the right choices. You’re more likely to eat quickly, overeat and reach for everything in sight. Be Smart With Your Plate. Think of your plate with four sections. Start with a
generous serving of turkey or another protein in one, then fill half your plate with plenty of vegetables, then add the foods you really love to that final quarter. The mashed potatoes, the stuffing, the yams with marshmallows. But skip the “meh” foods; Aunt Ida will forgive you for missing out on her tuna surprise. Slow Down and Be Grateful. When you eat quickly, it’s so easy to consume far more food than you actually need and leave you overfull, bloated and in regret instead of that contented turkey glow. Put your fork down between bites, chew, notice the flavours. Talk with your family ... after all, Thanksgiving is supposed to be about connection, not winning an Olympic medal for fastest mashed potato eating!
How to Eat Like a Healthy Person This Thanksgiving WORDS DR. MARITA SCHAUCH, ND TALL TREE INTEGRATED HEALTH CENTRE Have a slice you’ll genuinely enjoy, savour it, then move on. One slice of pie isn't going to make or break you.
And remember, no matter what your momma said growing up, you don't have to finish everything on your plate!
Watch the Liquid Calories. Alcohol, sweet drinks and fancy coffees quietly add a significant amount of sugar and calories to your holiday meal. Water should be your main beverage, but again, this doesn't mean you need to be the person sadly clutching a glass of water while everyone else celebrates. Just be mindful and limit yourself to "a drink."
Enjoy Dessert Without the Guilt. Here’s your permission slip: YOU’RE ALLOWED TO EAT THE PIE.
I like to add a slice of lime to sparkling water for "that feeling" while still staying hydrated and watching my sugar.
Take a Post-Meal Walk. After dinner, resist the temptation to immediately collapse onto the couch. Even 10 minutes of movement after a meal supports blood sugar regulation and digestion. You can even invite the family and get some fresh air while making memories together. Don't Punish Yourself the Next Day. You don’t need to "make up" for yesterday; simply return to your normal routine. Our bodies are remarkably adaptable and health isn't built from one perfect meal. Happy Thanksgiving; pass the pie!
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From standout denim to one of a kind woven shirts to outerwear that makes an entrance, Mos Mosh brings effortless Scandinavian style to your everyday wardrobe. MODEN & MODEN ESSENTIALS 2416 Beacon Avenue, Sidney MODEN MATTICK’S FARM 111-5325 Cordova Bay Road, Victoria • www.modenboutique.com 66 | OCTOBER 2026 | Seaside
FREE DOWNSIZING SEMINAR Navigating the Downsizing Journey: Join Our FREE Seminar Date: Wednesday, November 4, 2026 Time: 2:00 PM Location: Mary Winspear Center RSVP: Call 250-893-5540 or email helmsingrealestate@gmail.com Light Snacks Provided Key Topics Covered: Buying or Selling First: Financial considerations and creative solutions to ease the financial burden of downsizing Making the Move Easy: Strategies to secure your new home before selling your current one — all on your preferred timelines Maximizing Home Value: Tips for a profitable sale and how to optimize the value of your current home Outsourcing Logistics: Letting professionals handle the details
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SEASIDE STORIES New & Noteworthy
News, Changes, Updates, Launches Have something for New & Noteworthy? Email noteworthy@ seasidemagazine.ca. WORDS JUNE MURRAY DAGNALL
A NEW NAME REFLECTING A CLEAR PURPOSE
rebrand marks an exciting new chapter while honouring the values that have guided the firm from the beginning.
VandeRuyt Wealth Management Group is proud to announce that it will become Confident Wealth Advisory Group this October. The new name reflects what the team has always sought to provide clients: confidence in their financial future and confidence in having a trusted team by their side. As the practice has grown, the team recognized that their role extends beyond managing investments to helping clients navigate retirement, major life transitions, legacy planning and important financial decisions. Although the name is changing, clients can expect the same personalized advice, trusted relationships and commitment to helping them achieve their goals. The
A LITTLE CRIB MAKING A BIG DIFFERENCE Some of the smallest patients at Saanich Peninsula Hospital now have a safer, more comfortable place to recover, thanks to the O’Brien Wealth Management team at CIBC Wood Gundy. Their generous support helped fund a specialized Stryker Cub Crib for children under five years old, providing a secure, childsized space before and after surgery and during transport. For this Sidney-based team, giving back is personal as many members of their team live, work and raise their families on the Saanich Peninsula and have experienced the
hospital’s care firsthand. It’s a wonderful example of investing in healthcare close to home with the youngest members of our community.
PUTTING WASTE HEAT TO WORK The Capital Regional District (CRD) and Peninsula Recreation Commission (PRC) are excited to announce the Heat Recovery Project at Panorama Recreation Centre. This system is designed using industry leading and proven technology, to recover heat that would be sent as waste to the atmosphere and use it in other systems requiring heat within the Recreation Centre. Once complete, this project will play a significant role in reducing Panorama Recreation’s greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and will directly support the CRD’s climate action goals. This project is
COMPOUND ANNUAL RETURNS (Including reinvested dividends, as of August 15, 2026) Odlum Brown Model Portfolio2 S&P/TSX Total Return Index S&P 500 Total Return Index ($CDN) 1
1 YEAR
3 YEAR
5 YEAR
10 YEAR
20 YEAR
INCEPTION1
29.8% 34.7% 22.7%
23.5% 26.1% 23.4%
15.4% 15.6% 15.7%
13.3% 12.8% 16.3%
11.6% 8.9% 12.7%
14.7% 9.9% 11.4%
December 15, 1994. 2The Odlum Brown Model Portfolio is a hypothetical all-equity portfolio that was established by the Odlum Brown Equity Research Department on December 15, 1994 with a hypothetical investment of $250,000. It showcases how we believe individual security recommendations may be used within the context of a client portfolio. The Model also provides a basis with which to measure the quality of our advice and the effectiveness of our disciplined investment strategy. Trades are made using the closing price on the day a change is announced. Performance figures do not include any allowance for fees. Past performance is not indicative of future performance.
68 | OCTOBER 2026 | Seaside
being supported by grants from both FortisBC and BC Hydro.
• Routes 87 and 88 will continue to serve YYJ during the day.
ROLLING HER WAY TO TEAM CANADA!
www.bctransit.com
North Saanich teen Pearl Stewart discovered roller derby in 2022, and quickly fell in love with the sport. Since then, she has worked tirelessly to build her skills, determination and confidence on the track. Now, all that hard work has paid off! Pearl recently competed against talented young athletes from across Canada for a coveted spot on Junior Team Canada Roller Derby. Pearl is thrilled that she has been selected to represent her country.
Want to get hands-on with history? Heritage Acres BC is looking for new volunteers to help preserve and share Vancouver Island’s fascinating past. From heritage buildings and vintage tractors to steam engines and stories from generations gone by, this living history park offers plenty of ways to get involved. With many longtime volunteers aging out, fresh faces are needed to keep this community treasure thriving for years to come. Lend a hand, meet great people and help bring history to life!
FROM BEACH HOUSE MEMORIES TO A NEW STORY Lifeways Gallery has opened its doors in Cordova Bay, in the much-loved former Beach House space. This new gallery celebrates and supports local and area Indigenous artistry, showcasing distinctive works and the stories behind them. Each piece reflects deep cultural heritage, traditional knowledge and generations of artistic skill, offering visitors an opportunity to discover, learn and connect through art. 5109 Cordova Bay Road. Open Wednesday to Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
NEW DIRECT TRANSIT SERVICE BETWEEN SIDNEY & YYJ BC Transit’s new Route 72A is now in effect and will provide direct service between Sidney and Victoria International Airport (YYJ) with no transfer required. Details include: • Early-morning and latenight service; • Convenient for employees, residents and visitors; and
KEEP HISTORY ALIVE!
www.heritageacresbc.com
RADIO SIDNEY GETS A BOOST FROM TOWN COUNCIL Radio Sidney is one step closer to becoming a licensed low-power FM station, with unanimous support from Sidney Town Council and its application now submitted to the CRTC. The proposed 92.7 FM station would provide a trusted local voice and an important emergency communication tool for the community. While the licensing process is expected to take 18 to 24 months, Radio Sidney is already online with locally produced programming and podcasts.
FILL THE CRATE, LEND A PAW! This October, Merridale Cidery & Distillery, located in Cobble Hill, is turning an apple crate into a crate of kindness! As part of Harvest for Hounds, visitors are invited to donate pet food, treats, toys, supplies and comfort items to support animals in the care of the BC SPCA Cowichan Valley.
Drop off a donation while enjoying the beauty of harvest season. Explore the orchard, sip hot apple cider and enjoy a relaxing fall day at the farm. Bring a little kindness, help fill the crate and make a big difference for animals in need!
PAPER CHAIN TURNING A NEW PAGE A beloved Victoria destination for thoughtfully selected cards and gifts, Paper Chain is embarking on an exciting new chapter under new ownership.
Located in The Shops at Mattick's Farm in Cordova Bay and founded by Shirley Henly, the store will continue its tradition of finding the perfect card while expanding its gift selection to showcase exceptional Canadian makers and businesses. There will be a special focus on womenowned, LGBTQIA+ and Indigenous creators. The new owner, a longtime Victoria resident and former Paper Chain customer, is passionate about honouring the shop’s rich history while bringing fresh ideas and purpose to its future.
CALL or TEX T 250.483.5556 Cleared for Takeoff to a Comfortable Dental Visit Runway Dental is welcoming new patients of all ages. Our team includes Dr. Peters, known for his gentle, reassuring approach, and Dr. Souliotis, who focuses on oral myofunctional therapy and Invisalign® transformations, supported by our three friendly hygienists. Designed with accessibility and comfort in mind, our clinic features large wheelchair-friendly operatories, elevator access and ample parking; so every visit feels easy from arrival to departure.
Thoughtful care. Trusted experience. Right near the runway.
info@runwaydental.ca 228 - 9800 McDonald Park Road, Sidney Easy Parking & Elevator Access Available
Seaside | OCTOBER 2026 | 69
A Pet Care Centre That Loves Your Pets as Much as You Do!
EXPERIENCE MATTERS. Whetheryou youare are new to the area, through Whether new to the area, goinggoing through a life a life transition,oror unhappy with your current situation, you transition, unhappy with your current situation, you will will that findDeborah that Deborah unique approach when find takes a takes uniqueaapproach when working working with her clients. with her clients. Her 25 years of experience in the investment industry is her Deborah’s 25 years of experience in the investment guide when working with investors. Deborah realizes that industry resulted in her having a greater building has a strong client relationship is rooted in trust and understanding of anfoundation investor’s needs theirrelationship tolerance is transparency. The for a and strong to volatility, which allows the ability to effectivelyInvestors guide ensuring compatibility andher effective communication. want to know that the their financial advisor committed to their investors through ups and downs of is today’s markets. success and willing to take the time to listen to what is important
Comfortable, clean & healthy fresh air environment Exercise yards up to one quarter acre Feline “Cuddle Time” • K-9 Playschool course All managerial staff “Certified Kennel Technicians” Recommended by veterinarians • Full grooming services available
A Full Service Pet Care Facility
250-652-2301 2918 Lamont Road, Saanichton puppylove.ca • email: info@puppylove.ca Just minutes from Victoria Airport & BC Ferries Terminal
Did Someone Say "Treat?"
She hasthem successfully guided through many to help determine their investors goals. market cycles by ensuring that her clients are invested in a It may surprise many to learn that investing is often not about balance of the suitable products. Determining therather appropriate achieving ‘highest rate of return’, but having blend of investments that focus on preserving capital, confidence that their financial advisor understands their goals generating income, providing growth key to those findinggoals. a and will prepare anor investment plan to is achieve What one investor client’s comfort level.considers important, another may not,
therefore, goals, plans, and solutions are as unique as the
The greatest to long-term investing is selling growthindividual, so threat too should be the portfolio! oriented investments during turbulent markets. History Experience matters when it comes to guiding has proven that selling an investment with the expectation investors through turbulent markets. of purchasing it later (market timing) is not a successful Although setting goals,An determining thefinancial appropriate asset investment strategy. experienced advisor allocation, a strategy, building a portfolio, will ensureimplementing that the investor does not sabotage their and monitoring investments are essential to successful investing, long-term goals, and this starts with having a thorough the most important factor is the amount of time that the understanding of the investor, such as past experiences, professional spends with the investor. The current investment knowledge, more investment knowledge and family situation, health understanding the markets anshort and long-term. concerns, and of financial goals,that both investor has, the greater the
Preparing anfor investor volatility chances are success.for When helps theare investor ridefor out the investors prepared volatility and understand emotional roller coaster the that emotional roller coaster thata one can experience during can be experienced market correction. during Effective market corrections, the less communication chance they havewith of the investor is essential to ensure making decisions based on that investment decisions emotion rather than discipline logic. rather are basedand on logic than emotion. A financial advisor who has experience guiding who A financial advisor investors through has experience guiding these market investors through corrections is an these market corrections invaluable asset to is achieving one’sasset an invaluable financial goals. to achieving one’s financial goals.
Don’ttake take chances Don’t chances withfinancial with your your financial success because success because experience truly experience truly does matter! does matter!
Deborah Reid fma, fcsi
®
Financial Advisor
deborah.reid@raymondjames.ca 250.657.0700
PET MARKET PET MARKET
Family Owned & Operated
Raymond James Ltd., Member - Canadian Investor Protection Fund.
OPEN MONDAY - SATURDAY | 778.426.4290
www.raymondjames.ca/deborahreid
#5-7103 W Saanich Rd, Brentwood Bay | rascalspetmarket.com 70 | OCTOBER 2026 | Seaside
SEASIDE LIVING
LIVING WITH LOSS:
The Golden Years
An Aging Reality WORDS SHERRIN GRIFFIN, SIDNEY SENIORCARE
Although we can do our very best to prevent disease and age-related degeneration by eating better, moving more, stressing less and loving more as per the advice of Dr. Dean Ornish, the groundbreaking cardiologist who was able to improve and even reverse heart disease with his four-pillar lifestyle intervention Program, there is one thing that we can’t possibly prevent that seems to increase as we age. The loss of our loved ones – parents, siblings and other dear family members and friends is unavoidable. I have been super conscientious in the last 20 years about making the right lifestyle choices, perhaps with the exception of a few too many glasses of wine, but the agonizing decline and subsequent passing of my Dad literally brought me to my knees, as with many family caregivers. Suddenly, I couldn’t have cared less about my own carefully crafted health regime in the face of what my family was losing.
Even though my rational mind understood that his passing was inevitable, there was nothing I could do to prepare myself for what was to come: denial, guilt, confusion, depression, numbness and even disassociation, in varying degrees and not necessarily in that order. Of course, we try to get our feelings under control and even give ourselves a timeline to “get over it,” but grief has other plans for us. When I lost my Dad, I felt somewhat guilty to feel almost “normal” after the immediate loss; after all, I knew it was coming, right? But, then six months later, I started to have strange episodes of anxiety, panic attacks and feeling out-of-sorts. Not realizing that this had anything to do with my Dad, I thought I was losing my mind, and it wasn’t until I spoke to a grief therapist that I realized that poignant loss doesn’t have a logical or convenient timeline. It catches us off-guard, sneaks up on us when we least expect and then hits us like a ton of bricks. It doesn’t have to come from the
obvious triggers: an old photo, a song, or a spoken reference of the loved one. That cavernous sense of loss may come in the quiet moments of driving home from work or in the solitude just before we fall asleep at night. Loss knows no rules, no regulations and no boundaries. It comes and goes as it pleases. There is no containing it, fighting it or trying to make sense of it. So, what then can we do? How do we cope? • Let yourself “feel” your grief. Embrace it and know that it is normal and valid. Don’t beat yourself up for still feeling sad or not being “over it.” Be gentle with yourself. • Don’t try to manage your grief all alone. Let yourself lean on supportive family and friends who you feel safe to share your feelings with – those who you love and who love you. • Honour your loved one by doing something special in their memory: light a candle,
play their favourite music, create a memory book, etc. • Try to maintain your daily routine, or if necessary, develop a new one. This will help to ground you and give you some stability. • Reach out for help if needed, whether that be church, grief counselling or a support group. • Nourish yourself; do things that are meaningful to you and your life. Know that there will be joy again even after such an immense loss. Although we cannot stop the passage of time, getting older or losing our loved ones along the way, we can make sure we cherish and celebrate those we love each and every day with a hug, a smile or a thoughtful gesture. Don’t have any regrets that you didn’t spend enough time together, that you didn’t make up after that big fight; don’t wait to tell them you love them. And, remember that love really is eternal – open yourself up to receive it and look for the signs. Seaside | OCTOBER 2026 | 71
WITH
Peter Dolezal
FINANCIAL PLAN BENEFITS 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 400 clients across Canada, principally in Greater Victoria and the Lower Mainland. No Financial Products to Sell Leads to Truly Independent Advice.
Numerous studies have confirmed that individuals or couples who have a comprehensive Financial Plan not only enjoy a lifestyle with less financial stress, but also have a greater likelihood of attaining a comfortable retirement. Unfortunately, only a minority of Canadians benefit from the guidance of a “personalized” independently developed Plan. Although some do have a “Plan” from their bank or other advisor, it is generally focused on an investment structure, often with significant holding costs, either through mutual fund Management Expense Ratios (MERs), or as an annual percentage of portfolio values. A comprehensive Financial Plan must, of course, include a proposed Investment structure for each account. That however, should be only one element of a multifaceted Plan. A sound Financial Plan must also include: • A clear picture of the client’s current Net Worth (assets minus liabilities); the current Cash Flow (income and expenses); and future Cash Flows at retirement, and at ages 65 and 72, by which time RRIFs/ LIF draws must have commenced.
Author of
The Smart Canadian WealthBuilder
(Third Edition) Included in the curriculum of several Canadian Colleges.
individual taxable incomes beyond $93,000 (2026). • Necessity, magnitude and cost of Life Insurance, at various stages of life. • Debt-reduction strategy, with the key aim of debt liquidation prior to retirement. • Assessment of optimal real estate strategies both before and in retirement. • Adequacy of financial resources for an extended lifespan to at least age 90. • Strategy for optimal minimization of Income Taxes and Probate fees in an eventual Estate. • A sequential, step-by-step implementation guide. Of the more than 400 clients I have assisted over the years, I have yet to encounter even one whose “Financial Plan,” courtesy of their then-current financial institution, included significant elements of the above critical topics.
• Optimal timing for conversion of RRSPs and LIRAs to RRIFs and LIFs.
A meaningful Financial Plan, developed by a truly independent expert and encompassing all the outlined elements, should serve as a reliable “road map” to not only financial independence, but also a future financially stress-free, retirement lifestyle.
• Determination of the most beneficial timing for commencement of CPP and OAS benefits, all in a manner that minimizes income taxes, while also avoiding or reducing the risk of OAS claw-backs which commence at
As sound as an initial Financial Plan may be, it is best reviewed and updated every five to 10 years, to reflect major changes in circumstances, health or personal objectives. Updates should be much simpler than the development of the initial Plan.
IF A FINANCIAL PLAN IS OF INTEREST, CONTACT: pdolezal@shaw.ca or visit www.dolezalconsultants.ca for Client Testimonials & more information.
SEASIDE LIVING West Coast Garden
Now’s the Time to Plant Garlic WORDS & PHOTOS STACEY TOEWS As the summer garden winds down, there is still something wonderful to plant. Garlic is a promise tucked into the soil: one clove now; a whole bulb next summer. It takes surprisingly little effort to get started, and you do not need a huge garden. A small patch of healthy soil can yield plenty of flavour for your kitchen.
ON TIMING AND WHAT TO DO WHEN ... Most garden crops of lettuce, kale, potatoes, beans, tomatoes or peas will have wrapped up their harvests in time to use the space they had occupied as your garlic bed. It’s in late October or the first weeks of November that’s best for Vancouver Island garlic planting, with harvest following in June or July. The cloves spend roughly eight to nine months in the ground, quietly getting ready for their big finish. I plant my garlic in double rows on either side of a drip line so
74 | OCTOBER 2026 | Seaside
that when things get dry and warm and the garlic is most in need of moisture to finish maturing (May/June) I can turn on the drip lines and target the roots with water. The early garlic is generally sprouting above soil as early frosts show up and that’s a great time to put mulch of grass clippings, straw or rolled up coffee sacks between rows to insulate, suppress spring weeds and hold moisture.
START WITH YOUR BEST GARLIC I grow about 1,000 bulbs each year, saving the biggest, healthiest specimens for replanting. The medium ones are sold, and the smaller ones feed our family. Even those are often golf-ball sized! Selecting good planting stock is the beginning of next year's harvest. If you are buying garlic to plant, look for healthy seed garlic from a reputable grower. I also like growing more than one variety. In my garden,
that includes hardneck and softneck garlic. Planting a couple suited to your conditions spreads the risk and lets you discover your favourites. Do not worry if one variety emerges or grows more slowly than another. They have their own pace.
PLANT YOUR GARLIC: SIX SIMPLE TASKS Once you have prepared your growing space, planting is straightforward: • Choose a sunny spot. Garlic needs fertile, welldrained soil. A raised bed works well. Containers are another option, although they need extra attention to winter protection in cold climates. • Prepare the soil. Loosen the planting area and incorporate finished compost where needed. Give roots a welcoming home without waterlogged conditions. • Separate the cloves. Break each bulb into individual cloves, keeping their protective skins intact. Choose firm, healthy cloves for planting. • Plant the right way up. Place the root end down and the pointed tip up. There is no need to sprout cloves in water first; I prefer planting directly, avoiding unnecessary handling of delicate roots and shoots. • Give them growing room. Leave approximately six inches, or 15 centimetres, between cloves. Picture each one becoming a mature bulb and resist the temptation to squeeze in more.
• Cover and protect. Nestle the cloves into the soil and cover them, following plantingdepth and winter-mulching recommendations for your climate. The rows need not be perfectly straight!
“If it wasn’t for this, I wouldn’t have been able to better my life and my children’s lives.”
MAKE A LITTLE SPACE GO FURTHER If you're wondering how much space you might need for your garlic, consider this: 50 to 60 cloves can fit (with adequate spacing) in a row that’s 12 feet long. That’s four or five cloves per foot!! In a bed that is 10 to 12 feet in length, that double row is usually 120 cloves (future heads) of garlic. That is a lot of future flavour from a bit of garden and one short gardening session!
GIVE SPRING GROWTH A HELPING HAND When spring growth begins, attend to nutrition and keep weeds from competing with your garlic. Hardneck varieties offer a delicious bonus before the bulbs mature: tender garlic scapes for the kitchen. Later, save your best healthy bulbs to plant again. For now, start with a few good cloves and a prepared patch of soil. You do not need to plant 1,000 to enjoy the satisfaction. A modest autumn planting can become a generous summer harvest, and another step from being veggie curious to veggie confident. Nature is generous. Let's give it something to work with. Follow Sustainable Stace on YouTube or IG for more gardening ideas, or email sustainablestace@gmail. com with questions!
Ian Cooper, Cool Aid Recovery Housing House Lead
The house exists. What happens inside it – and whether we can do more – depends on you. To make a donation to Cool Aid’s substance-free recovery programs: www.coolaid.org/ support-long-term-recovery/ Cool Aid ... helping people rebuild their lives.
Monthly Giveaway Box! FILLED WITH AMAZING GIFTS FROM LOCAL BUSINESSES
HOW TO PLAY? Find the image of the box hidden somewhere in this issue. Visit www.seasidemagazine.ca/seasidebox or call 250.813.1745 by October 31st to let us know where you found it. *one entry per person, per issue. Each entrant is eligible to win the Seaside box giveaway no more than once per calendar year.
THANKS TO AUGUST’S COMMUNITY PARTNERS:
Congratulations to August’s Winner, Sheila D.
• Brentwood Bay Village Empourium • Burl & Blossom • Country Bee Honey Farm • Ecotopia Naturals • McTavish Academy of Art • muffet & louisa • Provenance Fine Things
Seaside | OCTOBER 2026 | 75
Community Art & Recreation Centre
Årt Kïts
Creativity For All Ages McTavish Academy Of Art resides in a former elementary school in North Saanich. The 18,000 sq. ft. space has been transformed into a vibrant and inclusive community art & recreation centre.
Fåll & Wïñtër Program
Registration Is Open A space where we host classes, workshops, events, birthdays, rentals & create art kits for all ages. Join us and explore your creativity.
mctavishacademy.ca
Check out our new line of McTavish Minis Made in North Saanich, BC
778-351-0088
Experience the vibrancy of Autumn butchartgardens.com
76 | OCTOBER 2026 | Seaside
1720 McTavish Rd. North Saanich
SEASIDE LIVING In Fashion
Viola Van de Ruyt,
Wealth Advisor & Portfolio Manager, Confident Wealth Advisory Group
When you need more than a clutch? A Coach leather backpack. When it comes to your go-to “uniform?” A dress and blazer or sweater. In your closet? Calvin Klein Dresses. When you want a night out? The Union Club. On your playlist? All Fired Up by Pat Benatar. On your walls? My grandchildrens’ drawings. When you don’t care how much it costs? Comfortable but good-looking shoes. On your feet? John Fluevogs.
PHOTOS JANIS JEAN
On your skin? Eminence Skin care from Brentwood Bay Resort Spa. When you want to smell irresistible? I can’t wear scents as my husband is allergic! In your bathroom cabinet? Paul Mitchell hair spray. In your makeup bag? Elate Mascara (local Victoria company), Clinique Lipstick.
When adding sparkle to your outfit? Brighton Jewelry from Provenance in Sidney. On your bedside table? Jay Shetty Think Like a Monk and The Mountain is You by Briana Wiest.On your luxury wish list? A trip to Japan. In haircare? Loma products from Focus 5000 in Sidney. When you want to throw fashion out the window and be all about comfort? Glerups slippers from Waterlily.
Seaside | OCTOBER 2026 | 77
BRENT WOOD CROSSING
JUST AROUND THE CORNER Your Friendly Neighbourhood Shopping Centre
PET MARKET
7103 WEST SAANICH ROAD, BRENTWOOD BAY
SEASIDE LIVING Get Out!
A Garden Escape at HCP
There is something about a garden in early fall that invites you to slow down.
WORDS & PHOTOS SHELLEY TICE The bright abundance of summer is beginning to soften, the light feels warmer and the air carries those subtle earthy scents that signal the changing season. On a sunny weekend, we spent a quiet morning exploring The Gardens at HCP, the nine-acre public garden at the Horticulture Centre of the Pacific on Quayle Road. Established in 1983, the Gardens are a place to wander without a particular agenda, stopping when something catches your eye and taking the time to notice what is changing with the season. Our favourite was the Japanese Garden, where a running stream, dappled light and quiet pathways create a tranquil atmosphere. Despite encountering plenty of other visitors enjoying the sunshine, it never felt crowded. Some were stopping to admire the flowers, while others had found a bench and simply settled in for a while. We
wandered through the Winter Garden too, stopping to take in some of the art nestled among the flowers. What stayed with me most, though, were the scents. They weren't overpowering, just the gentle fragrance of a garden moving towards fall. I noticed eucalyptus, along with the faint, earthy scent of the heathers. It was a reminder that experiencing a garden is about much more than what you see. There is a strong sense of learning throughout HCP. At the entrance, small cuttings identify what is currently blooming, making it easy to put a name to something that catches your eye. During our visit, bouquets were available alongside a fall plant sale – an easy way to take a little piece of the Gardens home. We paired our visit with lunch at one of my favourite spots, Charlotte & the Quail, which overlooks the Gardens. It is a popular spot, but we were
lucky enough to secure a patio table, allowing us to continue enjoying the garden while we ate. My usual order – a kale salad with a bowl of soup and a Golden Sunrise Turmeric Latte – felt like the perfect taste of fall, particularly knowing that many of their ingredients are sourced from nearby farms. Victoria has earned its nickname as the Garden City, and places like HCP
make it easy to see why. If you're looking for a garden adventure this fall, head to HCP for a beautiful garden to explore, something good to eat and a chance to slow down and enjoy the changing season. For current hours, admission and garden information, visit www.hcp.ca. For seasonal hours and menu information at Charlotte & the Quail, check www.charlotteandthequail.ca.
THINGS TO NOTE • Where: The Gardens at HCP, 505 Quayle Road, Victoria. • Parking: There is a parking lot on site, but spaces are limited, with additional parking along Quayle Road. • Allow about an hour: HCP estimates that a garden visit takes approximately an hour, although you could easily spend longer if you want to linger. • Check the calendar: HCP offers workshops, classes and other events throughout the year, so check the events calendar before you visit. • Before you go: Hours and admission costs can change seasonally, so check the HCP website before heading out.
Seaside | OCTOBER 2026 | 79
2243 Beacon Avenue, Sidney | 250-656-0275 | marywinspear.ca
Collage Trad October 13
Take some of the hottest, award-winning, contemporary fiddlers from Western Canada, mixed with complex arrangements and a thrilling rhythmic underlay and you’ve got… Collage Trad. A musical melting pot of local fiddle traditions with a dash of swing, a pinch of jazz, a sprinkle of rock and pure folk. Their music and spirit is uplifting and energizing. Collage Trad has developed an explosive, exceptionally tight, cohesive sound. This energetic and gripping musical experience is the result of a creative collaboration between six exceptional musicians with strong traditional music roots. Collage Trad is led by fiddler, Gabriel Dubreuil, Andy Hillhouse (guitar), Allan Dionne (drums/accordion) and Wynston Minckler (bass), and an award winning roster of fiddlers including Mark Sullivan, Serena Eades, Danielle Leonard and Annika Wilson.
Steve Marriner October 25
From harmonica to baritone guitar, from frontman to producer, Steve Marriner has spent over two decades shaping the sound of modern blues. With two JUNO Awards for his work with MonkeyJunk, a decade spent touring with Colin James, and guest appearances with bona fide blues legends like Buddy Guy and Jimmie Vaughan, Marriner has become one of Canada’s most versatile and respected musicians. Marriner’s approach to blending blues, rock, and roots music has made him a sought-after collaborator and a formidable solo artist. His previous album, Hope Dies Last, earned a 2022 JUNO nomination, and his production work on Big Dave McLean’s This Old Life won him yet another award at the 2025 JUNOs. Marriner continues to push boundaries, proving that the blues isn’t just tradition—it’s alive, electric, and constantly evolving.
The Boo Revue October 18
The Boo Revue! is a frightfully fun, blacklight, musical puppet show put on every year by the friendly inhabitants of a ghostly old graveyard. Get ready to shiver and shake along to spinetingling musical numbers, and be dazzled by supernatural sights! Each year, the show returns with new numbers and characters, constantly expanding our cast of frighteningly fun friends, and bringing new spectre-tacular delights every Halloween!
Upcoming Events October
Ridge by the Fugitives October 25
Often called “the battle that made Canada”, Vimy Ridge resulted in over 10,000 Canadian casualties. In RIDGE, Brendan McLeod and The Fugitives examine misconceptions and varying perspectives around the battle of Vimy Ridge, while drawing parallels to other formative events in our nation’s past. Featuring innovative musical interpretations of WWI soldier songs (often referred to as ‘Trench Songs’), RIDGE probes difficult yet necessary questions about how and why we grieve. Trench songs were written by frontline soldiers during WW1. Essentially protest songs, they were often parodies of well-known tunes. The Fugitives perform their 5th and JUNO nominated album Trench Songs to accompany the WWI storytelling and thought-provoking narrative McLeod provides. Based on the writing by WWI soldiers, the band wrote new melodies and music for these words. The result is a poignant and stripped-back collection of work that emphasizes the emotional content of the lyrics and continues the long tradition of folk music reshaping songs over time — the same way soldiers reshaped these songs in the trenches. A vivid, kinetic ride through history, as well as an intimate, personal examination of our connection to the past, RIDGE is a visceral work that passionately argues against the exploitation of young lives. A Canadian folk staple, The Fugitives were formed in 2005 and released their 7th album in 2026. They’ve been nominated for a JUNO, as well as 7 Canadian Folk Music Awards, including Best Vocal Group, Best Ensemble, and Best Songwriter. Having toured heavily across Canada, the UK, and the EU for two decades, they’ve been awarded the Best Folk Album of the Year by the German Music Critics’ Association, performed at Glastonbury, and most major folk festivals across Canada. They’ve also branched out into theatre with their show, Ridge, which was a 2020 Globe & Mail “Top Arts Pick of the Year” and has toured to 50 theatres across Canada. They have earned a reputation for unforgettable live shows, brimming with complex harmonies, infectious storytelling and topnotch musicianship. As the CBC has it: “This show is simply brilliant.”
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Classic Ronstadt Psychic & Spiritual Arts Fair BC Django Festival The Sutcliffes Beatles Legacy Blood Donor Clinic Barney Bentall Collage Trad 3rd Annual Homecoming Concert Let’s Go Surfin Beach Boys Tribute The Piano Man: Jim Witters Town of Sidney Municipal Election The Boo Revue! South Island Record Show Middle Aged Boy Band Improv Doc Walker, Michelle Wright, Jason McCoy Crafted Farmhouse Market Barracuda Heart Tribute Steve Marriner Sidney Pride Halloween Drag Show
November 2 5 6 7 7-8 8 10 13 14 15 21 21 22 24 26 27-28 30
Blood Donor Clinic William Prince Bourne to be Ozz Ridge by the Fugitives First Chance Christmas Craft Fair SCB: A Concert of Remembrance The Bros. Landreth The Barra MacNeils SPHHF Spirit Gala Matt Dusk: A Very Sinatra Christmas SPHA Christmas Bazaar Abba Blah Blah Blah Improv The Great Divide Tribute to The Band Far & Away Travel Showcase Completely Creedence Band Rancho Vignola Blood Donor
DECEMBER 4-6 11-13 19
Peninsula Singers Home for the Holidays Last Chance Christmas Craft Fair Elf the Musical Jr.
Monthly Meetings Sidney Anglers Association - 4th Monday Saanich Peninsula Arts & Crafts Society - 1st Monday Canadian Federation of University Women - 4th Tuesday Probus Club of Sidney - 2nd Tuesday Probus Club of Saanich Peninsula - 1st Thursday Sidney Camera Club - 2nd & 4th Tuesday
SIDNEY CENTRE FAMILY DENTISTRY P R O U D TO B E FA M I LY O W N E D & O P E R A T E D S I N C E 2 0 0 0 Dr. Loren J. Braun
SPONSORED CONTENT In Good Health
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Brentwood Bay, Saanichton and Pender Island
Big Changes Ahead at Sidney Centre Family Dentistry WORDS PAMELA MARTIN BLUE JELLYFISH SUP ADVENTURES There's a countdown running in the Braun household these days, and it has nothing to do with summer holidays. Seven months from now, Dr. Loren and Jaci Braun's sons Riley and Payton will walk across the stage at their dental school graduations, one day apart, and climb straight into a U-Haul truck (already booked!) bound for home. The truck is booked before the boxes are even packed. That's how ready this family is. For those who don't know Sidney Centre Family Dentistry yet, Jaci and Loren Braun have spent years building the practice into one that feels like an extension of the family kitchen table: familiar faces, unhurried appointments and the kind of care that comes from actually knowing patients' names, and their kids' names too. Now the couple's own kids are coming home to be part of it, and May is set to be a whirlwind, with two graduation ceremonies in two different cities and two grown sons' lives to pack up and haul back to Sidney. Then, before anyone even unpacks a box, the celebration continues: in June, Loren, Riley and Payton are heading to Tanzania to climb Mount Kilimanjaro to mark the boys'
82 | OCTOBER 2026 | Seaside
graduation, a father-and-sons summit before the sons become their father's colleagues. They'll be back in time to open as a three-dentist team in July. Behind every part of this transition is Jaci Braun, Loren's wife and the boys' mother, and, as many patients may not realize, a dentist in her own right. Jaci trained and practised clinically before a neck injury sidelined her chairside career some 20 years ago. Rather than step away from dentistry, she shifted her expertise behind the scenes, running the business side of the practice ever since: HR, accounting and practice management. As the boys join the team this summer, Jaci is steering that transition. The family didn't want Riley and Payton to simply show up to the same old office, either. They wanted to build something that could genuinely grow with them, so for months now the practice has been quietly, and not so quietly, renovating behind the scenes to make room for the future. Step one is already done. The practice has brought in a new CBCT scanner, cone beam computed tomography, the most advanced imaging technology available in dentistry today. It gives the
Family & Implant Dentistry
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team a full three-dimensional view of a patient's teeth, jaw and surrounding structures, meaning sharper diagnosis of hidden fractures and disease, and more precise planning for root canals, extractions and implants. It's already up and running. Step two is underway right now, so patients are asked to excuse the dust. The waiting room and reception area are being renovated to make space for an additional receptionist, because a bigger team needs a bigger front desk. The disruption is temporary, and the payoff will be a warmer, more spacious welcome for everyone who walks through the doors. Step three arrives this summer, timed to the boys' arrival. The practice will take over the space across the hall and relocate its administrative offices, staff room, lab, and storage area there, freeing up room in the main clinic for two more dental chairs alongside their father. Once they're settled, Riley will see patients Monday through Thursday, and Payton Tuesday through Friday. Together, that means Sidney Centre Family Dentistry will be open five days a week for the first time, including Fridays, a day the practice has never offered before.
What won't change is everything patients already love about coming in: the front desk team who remembers birthdays, the hygienists who make flossing lectures feel like a friendly chat, and Jaci's steady hand running the business. What's changing is simply more hands on deck, more appointment times, and, the team will admit it, a little more Braun family energy in the building. Loren and Jaci have been dreaming about this moment since Riley and Payton were small enough to lose their own baby teeth in the waiting room. Watching them choose dentistry, train for it, and now come home to build something alongside their parents is a full-circle story that doesn't happen in every family business.
MUSCLE OR JOINT PAIN? PHYSIO. MASSAGE. OSTEOPATHY. ACUPUNCTURE. CALL TODAY OR BOOK ONLINE! 250.656.4717
PENINSULAPHYSIO.CA 9733 4TH ST, SIDNEY
So if patients see a bit of construction tape around the reception desk this spring, know that it's in service of something good. And if a cleaning is overdue, now's a good time to book ahead, because starting this July, Fridays are finally an option. Sidney Centre Family Dentistry is located in Sidney. New patients are always welcome. Seaside | OCTOBER 2026 | 83
Our family serving your family for over 50 years
Dr. Matthew Foulkes and his team are committed to providing all our current and new patients a relaxed environment with calm and quality care. Come visit our office and staff! Our services include but aren't limited to: • Examinations & Hygiene • Crowns & Bridges • Complete & Partial Dentures • Restorations • Root Canal Therapy • Extractions Dr. Matthew Foulkes, BSc. Hon., DDS • Clear Aligner Braces
Accepting New Patients 250-598-5441 | #230-4460 Chatterton Way
www.chatter tonwaydental.ca
101 - 9830 Second Street, Sidney, BC salvador-davis.com 250-656-3951
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SEASIDE STORIES Trade Student Spotlight
Three Paths, One Destination:
Level 1 Automotive Technician WORDS HEIDI HACKMAN, DISTRICT CAREER COORDINATORS, SD 63 PHOTO WIND GYPSY PHOTOGRAPHY In this column we usually highlight students who have found an alternate path to graduation, through a career program. This month we will be diving a little deeper to illustrate that within a chosen career path there are multiple ways to achieve the same milestone. This summer three Saanich students all completed their Level 1 Auto Technician program, but by taking three very different routes. Ethan Gillespie (pictured), a SIDES student, chose a pathway that combined flexible online learning with on-thejob training. The flexibility of SIDES allowed Ethan to work as a Youth Work in Trades apprentice at Prospect Lake Auto while completing his high school courses. After accumulating more than 700 hours of workplace experience, Ethan worked with his career teacher, Rhiannon Cockayne, to apply to Camosun College's Level 1 Automotive Service Technician apprenticeship training. Because students entering this six-week program already have significant hands-on experience, the training focuses primarily on automotive theory and technical knowledge. Students then write a Certificate of Qualification exam to earn their Level 1 certification. Completing this Level 1 Apprenticeship program also gave Ethan eight Grade 12 credits towards graduation. His mom Kali recommends these programs as "they provided a seamless way
to complete the graduation requirements, gain valuable paid work experience and helped Ethan develop personal agency in the process." Theo Leduc-Wright, a recent Stelly's French Immersion graduate, took a different route. Unlike Ethan, Theo had limited experience working in an automotive shop, but he knew he wanted to pursue a career in the automotive industry. For Theo, the ideal option was the Automotive Foundation Program at Camosun College. This seven-month program combines classroom theory with extensive hands-on training, providing students with the skills and experience needed to enter the trade. Theo excelled in the program and developed both his technical abilities and his confidence. There are 18 seats in a Foundation Program and two of the seats are available to qualified high school students through the South Island Partnership. That means two seats available for all of the high schools in the South Island – very coveted seats for sure.
practical automotive skills. In May, they transition to Camosun College to complete the six-week theoretical portion of their apprenticeship training. The program is supported by district partnerships, with Kevin Blesic, Vice-Principal of Pathways and Partnerships in SD61, working collaboratively with neighbouring districts to ensure available seats are filled whenever space permits. Ethan, Theo, and Brodie all arrived at the same destination, earning their
Level 1 Automotive Service Technician training, but each took a unique path to get there. Their experiences highlight the variety of opportunities available to students interested in the skilled trades and demonstrate that success can be achieved through multiple educational pathways. For more information on Saanich School District Career programs or the Youth Work in Trades program, please contact Heidi Hackman at hhackman@ saanichshcools.ca.
Brodie Meeres, also a recent graduate of Stelly's Secondary School, followed a different route as the two seats in the Foundation program were taken. He completed his Level 1 training through the Esquimalt High Automotive Program, a partnership that allows students to focus fulltime on automotive studies during the second semester. From February to May, students attend Esquimalt High School to develop Seaside | OCTOBER 2026 | 85
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Uniquely Local
Rodco Draperies & Upholstery This is part of a rotating series of articles about some of our unique local shops and services. WORDS SAMANTHA FEX Owned and operated by father-and-son team Roger and Fielding Comartin, Rodco Draperies & Upholstery in North Saanich has been providing first-rate decoration services and products to clients in greater Victoria, Vancouver Island and across Canada since 1976. As a second-generation company, the duo takes great pride in their vast expertise and passion for transforming residential, commercial, hospitality and medical environments with their attractive range of window coverings, upholstery, furniture, bedding, shower curtains, custom work and their innovative Eaze Drape solution. Eaze Drape is a budget-friendly window curtain system that is easy to maintain and change with no rehooking involved. The fabric is both flame retardant and up to 80% room darkening, and the curtains can be cold-water washed 15 to 20 times. Designed specifically for healthcare, institutional and educational facilities, Eaze Drape is a preferred product of many repeat Rodco Draperies & Upholstery clients, including the Victoria General Hospital, Royal Jubilee Patient Care Centre, Baptist Housing, The Heights at Mount View, Sidney All Care Residence and The Salvation Army Sunset Lodge. Roger and Fielding recognize that finding the right products at the right price is crucial. They take the time to truly understand your needs and
offer tailored solutions with the goal to always provide premium products that fit both your requirements and your budget perfectly. The father-and-son duo are also personally involved in every aspect of the process. From product knowledge to colour selection, they offer guidance and expertise to help you make the best choices for your space. Plus, they are available to talk 24/7. With their personal cell phone numbers listed on their website, the Rodco Draperies & Upholstery owners strive to ensure clients will never encounter an automated system or answering machine when you reach out to them. Exceptional customer service is always paramount, with client satisfaction and peace of mind their top priorities. Have something unique in mind for your home that you would like custom made? Custom work is a specialty of the Rodco team. With a great network of skilled affiliates, they are able to take on most customized projects. And if they are unable to meet your vision, they will find someone who can. For more information about Rodco Draperies & Upholstery, please visit www. rodcodrapesblindsupholstery. ca. Call 250-656-4642 or email rodcointeriors@gmail.com to discuss your project and set up your personal consultation. Free measurement and estimate service is offered with no obligation to buy.
Yes we can help you with upholstery, blackout blinds & draperies for your bedroom & MOTORIZE them! es & Upholstery
Rodco Draperi
250.656.4642 • rodcointeriors@gmail.com
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SEASIDE LIVING Screen Scene
Crew Girl
Rowing Onto Your TV from the Saanich Peninsula WORDS KELLY FINERTY TV Series (2026) – Netflix Original Teen Drama – TV-MA 8 episodes approx. 45 min. each The film and TV industry on the Island often involves many of our local businesses and residents. Whether that involvement is a location, employed actors or local crew, the premiere of the Netflix TV series Crew Girl shines a bright spotlight on the Saanich Peninsula and all it and its people have to offer the silver screen. A teen drama series, Crew Girl was filmed throughout the Saanich Peninsula and Capital Region last year, and stars Canadian actor Miku Martineau (Bet) as Teagan Tao, a champion rower from California who moves with her mother, Ella (Jessica Paré, Mad Men), to a small East Coast town after her father abandons their family while running from the FBI. Teagan starts fresh at Easton Prep, an elite high school for the wealthy with no girls’ rowing program. Bummer. To maintain her time on the water, Teagan wins the role of coxswain for the boys’ rowing team, and must whip them into winning shape while she learns to be a team player as an only child and solo rower. Something I personally love to see in the Canadian television and film landscape is a show written, directed, and showrun by a team of mostly women (Vivian Lin, Jennica Harper, Amanda Tapping, to name a few). Coupling this with a diverse cast and plot
lines of romantic story arcs that portray and normalize both straight and gay characters to ensure same-sex representation in sports on screen, and you have yourself a binge-ready show for a rainy weekend on the couch. With clean camera work and a classic Netflix look to the show, we see heartache and dysfunctional family dynamics front and centre in the pursuit of athletic excellence on the water, with just the right amount of soapiness. There’s something comforting about watching a TV series on a big streamer and seeing your town as a star all on its own. I found myself often pausing the show to take a screenshot to send to a friend who was nicely placed as a character in the background, which is always fun. This show is in our backyard for many economic and career reasons, and for folks on the Saanich Peninsula, Crew Girl has certainly poured limelight on Sidney, Elk/Beaver Lake and Deep Cove, among other Capital Region landmarks, as a believable East Coast preppy small town. No spoilers, but there is quite an iconic scene at the Sidney Wharf with the Fish Market in all its glory as the beautiful backdrop. How many locations (and local actor friends) did you recognize while watching? If you liked Crew Girl, you may also like: Elle – TV Series (Amazon Prime) Bet – TV Series (Netflix) Heated Rivalry – TV Series (Crave) Rebelde – TV Series (Netflix)
SHOAL OKTOBER FEST Join us for a festive afternoon of food, fun, and community spirit at our Oktoberfest celebration.
October 16 | 12pm–2pm | $40*
More Fall FUN!
Thrift Shopping Bus Trip Shop, browse, and enjoy lunch with friends at Beacon’s Sidney and Brentwood Bay thrift shops Lunch extra.
October 8 | Check-In 10:15am | $10*
Register for these and more activities at Beacon’s SHOAL Centre
10030 Resthaven Drive 250-656-5537 beaconcs.ca
*member pricing
I’M SO BORED, I COULD EAT THE COUCH
FUREVER PET PALS DOG WALKING thepetpals.ca · 250.516.6489 INSURED • LIFETIME OF EXPERIENCE • COMPETITIVE RATES Seaside | OCTOBER 2026 | 89
SEASIDE LIVING Well Read
Author Deep Dive WORDS JACKIE LAPLANTE Many enthusiastic readers have, at one time, found an author whose book is so interesting that it propels them to devour the writer’s entire body of work. Why do we do it, and what does it do for us? There can be a comfort factor, particularly with series that feature a common character. Perhaps it is the writing style, be it cut and dried, conversational or experimental. Occasionally a book may completely amaze us and we want more of the same creativity. Someone once recommended that I read I’m Thinking of Ending Things, by the then little-known Ontario author Iain Reid. A cerebral psychological thriller with an intriguing title, the intense story captivated me. When Foe, (a 2026 Canada Reads contender), was released, I went straight for it. A thriller with a sci-fi twist, this one offered a more complex story with increased character development. And then came We Spread. Again, Iain Reid offers a psychological thriller, creepy and suspenseful, but with much more depth and real-life uncertainty than his previous novels. Penny, an aging artist, follows the directive of her late husband and moves to a 90 | OCTOBER 2026 | Seaside
charming seniors’ residence. While the two staff members and four residents are welcoming, Penny begins to feel unnerved. Nail clippings are saved by staff; the residents suffer gaps of time and memory. All residents, despite being well-fed, are ferociously hungry. Penny investigates, but her failing mind and body, and the keen attentions of the staff, hold her back. At first glance, the feel of the book is dystopic and futuristic. Are the residents being harvested for experimental cloning and investigations into longevity? As Penny elaborates on the unusual practices she notices in the residence, she begins to give the sense that she is an unreliable narrator. Is it possible that these unusual things are happening? Or are her accounts simply the confusions of dementia? The recurring theme of the pando tree, with its far-reaching root system, appearing randomly in the residence and subconsciously, in the insistence that residents share their talents (and pieces of their physical bodies), offers another curiosity to ponder. Reid manages to keep the reader hovering between the possibility that the institution is evil and the suspicion that Penny’s accounts are fantasy, maintaining this dissonance to the provocatively inconclusive finish. To me, authors who produce compelling and inventive books are always worth following. Here are suggested titles by authors who might merit their own “deep dives”.
Find your next unpulldownable October read in store!
Exit Party
Our Noble Selves
Emily St John Mandel Fiction | HC $38.99
Kate Atkinson Fiction | HC $39.00
Pick a Colour
Circle of Days
Souvankham Thammavongsa Fiction | PB $22.00
The Secret of Secrets Dan Brown Fiction | PB $30.99
The Dying Light Ann Cleeves Mystery | PB $25.99
The French Illusion
The Big Cats Dance Party
John Grisham Fiction | HC $44.00
A. McCall Smith Mystery | HC $41.99
The Women
The Birthing Tree
Ken Follett Fiction | PB $32.99
Kristin Hannah Fiction | PB $29.00
Stitched
Time of the Child Niall Williams Fiction | PB $26.99
Robert Harris Fiction | PB $29.00
A Slowly Dying Cause
Venetian Vespers
The Mysterious Case of the Missing Crime Writer
Eli McCann Fiction | PB $29.50
Elizabeth George Mystery | PB $28.99
John Banville Mystery | PB $28.99
Amanda Peters Fiction | PB $25.99
Agrippa
Ragnar Jonasson Mystery | PB $26.00
1. Bunny by Mona Awad 2. Kafka on the Shore by Haruki Murakami
at Beacon & Fourth in Sidney | open 7 days a week 250 656 2345 | tannersbooks.com
3. Madame Victoria by Catherine Leroux
Open late Thursdays and Fridays! Sat to Wed 9am to 5pm | Thu & Fri 9am to 8pm
Local Flavour: Feature of the Month BEACON BREWING This small, family-run brewery has been committed to supporting beautiful Sidney by the Sea, which they call home, by immersing themselves in the local community both personally and professionally; all while creating easy-drinking and unique beers and hosting entertaining events weekly.
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THANKSGIVING DINNER � OCTOBER 11-12
Sun to Thurs 11am-8pm • Fri/Sat 11am-9pm HAPPY HOUR Mon to Fri 3-5pm (Pub-side)
CURRENT BEERS ON TAP INCLUDE: Mainstay Beers: Ladder Truck Lager Power Surge Pale Ale Capacitor Cold IPA Disconnect Dark Mild Four other rotating beer flavours are also available. October is also the brewery's anniversary, and we are turning five this year! The month will be full of fun including four small batch beers released weekly throughout the month, along with the anniversary party on October 24th, and a huge Halloween party on October 31st! HAPPY HOUR Monday to Friday 3-6pm with $5 16oz sleeves of mainstay beers.
Weekend Brunch • Happy Hour • Late Night All Day Sunday Happy Hour O P E N D A I LY 1 1 : 3 0 A M - C L O S E @thelodgekitchenandbar • brentwoodbayresort.com
2215 Canoe Cove Rd North Saanich 250-655-8870 • stonehousepub.ca
Late Night Special! Burger & Fries or 1 lb Wings after 8pm (Sun-Thurs)
Neighbourhood Pub & Liquor Store
Mon - Sat: 11am-midnight; Sun: 10am-midnight 250.652.1575 | 7806 E Saanich Rd, Saanichton
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LATE NIGHT HAPPY HOUR Friday and Saturday nights from 8-11pm with $2 off 20oz pints of mainstay beer!
Your guiding light to great beer!
The freshest small batch beer brewed with as many hyper-local ingredients as possible, including most of our malt grown on the Saanich Peninsula by Field Five Farm. 92 | OCTOBER 2026 | Seaside
SEASIDE LIVING
Growing Bananas in Canada?
Musa Basjoon – a Treasure on the Shoreline
WORDS & PHOTOS M. HONORÉ FRANCE When I first saw a banana plant for sale, I had no idea about the various varieties, but it was interesting to imagine them growing in my yard. We had no snow the winter of 2026; none of my eight banana trees died, and one of them had bananas and a large flower (a pod). The variety of bananas sold in Canada is called the Japanese fibre tree or – by its scientific name – Musa Basjoo. It is a useful plant that is grown across the world and used in a variety of ways. Its ornamental value is amazing because of its tropical beauty in gardens, but it is also useful as an important ingredient in pharmacology and in textiles. The Compendium of Materia Medica, a medical book written 450 years ago, describes the various medical uses of Musa Basjoo. Traditional Chinese Medicine used it in treating health
issues, including cerebral hemorrhage, urinary tract infection, various swelling and the common cold. In the modern world, medical literature describes hundreds of experiments and studies on the usefulness and efficacy of this plant in the treatment of illnesses. The use of Musa Basjoo in textiles is documented as far back as the 13th century in Okinawa, Japan. China and the Philippines manufacture clothing from the banana and it is a valuable export. The fibres in the banana plant, taken from the trunk, is a breathable fabric, described as being like “the wings of a dragonfly.” It takes three years to process the thin cloth, from pruning to thread that is woven into cloth.
In Japan, it is idolized as a textile used to make cloth that sells for thousands of dollars in the humid climate of Japan. The cloth is natural and organically grown, and is very different from cotton. The banana fibres are more comfortable than cotton and better for the environment. Musa Banjoo takes three months to weave a bolt of cloth from tree harvesting, using 60 trees for one bolt of cloth. My experience in growing Musa Banjoo on Vancouver Island has been exhilarating; I like it because: • It’s easy to maintain – you just need to water it and provide a little food; • It provides the garden with a jungle look, with
leaves that can be used as food containers; • It’s hardy, growing in heat zones 5-10, and can produce bananas in 18th months; • It grows in well-drained soil and, on average grows 1.8 to 8.5 metres tall; • It isn’t like a tree (woody) but like a herb with a large stem that is layered, onion-like, and can produce magnificent leaves growing up to two metres long; • It has a pod or flower that is layered full of sweet nodes that some Asia cuisines utilize; and • Once the fruit is produced the visible part dies but continues as a “pups” (babies) regrowing in spring to maturity. My short poem reflects my joy of having the Musa Basjoo in my garden: Banana Tree, like a dragonfly Haut fashion, good medicine, climate friendly Nourishing the Spirit
Seaside | OCTOBER 2026 | 93
SEASIDE LIVING Homes
Crows Landing Project TWO HOMES, TWO DISTINCT PERSONALITIES What happens when two nearly identical homes become anything but identical? At 2313 and 2317 Orchard Avenue, awardwinning design meets personal expression in a captivating study of how the same architectural canvas can inspire two remarkably different interiors.
WORDS JUNE MURRAY DAGNALL PHOTOS COLDWELL BANKER
94 | OCTOBER 2026 | Seaside
Seaside | OCTOBER 2026 | 95
Built by Greater Victoria’s Little Crow Projects Inc., the two homes form part of a shared development known as Crows Landing, where virtually identical foundations have been transformed into two distinctly individual spaces. Crows Landing received recognition at the 2025 Vancouver Island Residential Builders Association (VRBA) CARE Awards, winning Best New Home Design Under $1 Million and tying for Best Contemporary Kitchen Under $75,000. Guided by a shared vision, the two homes take remarkably different directions once you step inside. Their twin layouts provide the perfect backdrop for individual expression, with variations in cabinetry, lighting and feature-wall finishes creating two distinct moods, personalities and experiences. The two homes offer a compelling reminder of just how transformative interior design can be. While their architectural foundations may be nearly identical, the finished spaces are
each shaped by thoughtful choices in colour, materials, lighting and detail to create a home with its own distinct character. They are ultimately, a celebration of individuality in design. The same four walls can tell completely different stories, proving that great design is not simply about how a home looks, but how it feels, and how beautifully it reflects the people who call it home. 2313 Orchard Avenue (photos these pages) blends clean, contemporary architecture with thoughtful detailing, exceptional functionality and a high level of craftsmanship. From the street, crisp gables, a simple roofline and the striking contrast of smooth stucco with vertical boardand-batten siding create a strong architectural presence within a compact footprint. The same restrained palette and geometric elements continue to the rear of the home, creating a cohesive visual identity from every angle. Inside, the clean-lined aesthetic is softened by natural materials, custom millwork and carefully considered details. Slatted feature walls and built-
ins introduce warmth and texture, while clever solutions including under-stair storage and custom cabinetry maximize functionality without compromising the home's streamlined appearance. Recessed lighting, highquality finishes and seamless material transitions further showcase the attention to detail throughout. The open-concept main floor is organized into distinct living, dining and kitchen zones, creating a sense of definition while maintaining an easy flow between spaces. Oversized sliders extend the living area outdoors, establishing a seamless connection between the interior and a series of private, multi-purpose outdoor spaces. Vaulted ceilings and strategically positioned windows draw in abundant natural light, enhancing the home's sense of openness and making the most of its compact footprint. Upstairs, an open-concept laundry area is cleverly integrated into the circulation space, preserving valuable square footage for the
bedrooms. Throughout the home, rooms are carefully scaled to maximize both comfort and functionality, demonstrating how planning can make a smaller footprint feel remarkably generous. The home's flexibility extends to a finished auxiliary flex room, incorporated in place of a traditional garage due to municipal development limitations. Rather than viewing the restriction as a compromise, the space has been transformed into a versatile bonus area that can adapt to a variety of needs from a home office or additional storage or family space. Sustainability has also been integrated into the design. Energy-efficient heating and cooling systems, along with low-E glazing, enhance the home's environmental performance, while its compact footprint naturally reduces resource use. The result is a home that proves thoughtful design does not require excess space when careful planning, quality craftsmanship and a clear understanding of how people want to live is considered. Seaside | OCTOBER 2026 | 97
2317 Orchard Avenue (photos these pages) by contrast embraces an earthy, contemporary aesthetic, pairing warm wood cabinetry, creamy whites and sophisticated black accents to create a space that feels both refined and inviting. Where the neighbouring home makes a bolder statement with colour and visual energy, this home finds its character in restraint, layering natural materials, subtle textures and carefully considered details within a clean, minimalist framework. Creativity and functionality are seamlessly woven throughout the design. Custom built-ins add warmth and purpose, while cleverly concealed under-stair storage doubles as a pantry, making smart use of every available inch. In the kitchen, cabinetry extends to the ceiling, maximizing storage while maintaining a streamlined, uncluttered appearance. A generous nine-foot island provides ample workspace and casual seating, keeping everyday dining separate from the formal dining area. Even the smallest details 98 | OCTOBER 2026 | Seaside
have been thoughtfully resolved, from the integrated microwave within the island to strategically positioned electrical outlets beneath the cabinetry and within the island itself. A convenient pull-out drawer beneath the sink makes recycling and waste sorting equally effortless. Natural light plays an important role in the home's sense of spaciousness. High ceilings and strategically positioned windows and doors draw daylight deep into the interiors, while windows incorporated into the backsplash introduce additional light without sacrificing valuable wall space. Above the kitchen island, sleek pendant fixtures combine practical task lighting with a distinctive design statement. The open-concept floor plan creates an effortless flow between the living, dining and kitchen areas, while oversized rear sliders extend the living space outdoors. Throughout, high-end finishes, precise custom millwork and
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STORY TO TELL carefully considered material transitions reflect a commitment to quality craftsmanship. A solid-slab backsplash adds another layer of sophistication, providing a seamless finish that reinforces the home's refined aesthetic. Environmental performance has also been considered, with energy-efficient heating and cooling systems and low-E glazing helping to improve efficiency. The home's compact footprint further reduces resource use while maintaining comfort, functionality and livability. Ultimately, both these homes demonstrate that minimalism need not mean minimal personality. Here, every material, fixture and detail
has a purpose, creating a home that feels calm and cohesive while remaining remarkably warm, practical and personal.
FAMILIES, GOLDEN AGE & PORTRAIT PHOTOGRAPHY
2317 Orchard Avenue embraces an energetic, vibrant aesthetic, where colour, character and personality take centre stage. 2313 Orchard Avenue, by contrast, takes a more restrained approach, pairing muted tones and minimalist design to create an atmosphere that feels calm, refined and effortlessly understated. Little Crow would like to credit Spaciz Design Company and Hoyt Design. See page 19 or visit www.littlecrowprojects.ca for more info.
AMBER WAHL 250.266.1003 WWW.WINDGYPSYPHOTOGRAPHY.COM Seaside | OCTOBER 2026 | 99
HOT PROPERTIES
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!
LUXURIATE IN THE WEST COAST LIFESTYLE $1,690,000 INGRID JARISZ* 250.385.2033 (*personal real estate corp)
THE PINNACLE OF LUXURY LIVING $1,398,000 INGRID JARISZ* 250.385.2033 (*personal real estate corp)
100 | OCTOBER 2026 | Seaside
CONDO AT PRESTIGIOUS SPENCER CASTLE $835,000 INGRID JARISZ* & MONA PALFREYMAN 250.385.2033 (*personal real estate corp)
You’ll be greeted by sweeping ocean, mountain and golf course vistas from the moment you enter this1847sqft , 2 bed+den+media sanctuary designed with open living spaces, rich engineered hardwood, bespoke millwork and expansive windows adding to the natural light and views. this home exudes year-round comfort and sophistication. MLS#1047579
THE PINNACLE AT SAYWARD HILL
This exceptional penthouse residence! with over 1,700 square feet of exquisitely designed space, features 2-bdrms, 2 bthrms, and is a masterpiece crafted by Jawl Dev. Featuring an abundance of natural light and southwest views from two expansive balconies and an open floor plan perfect for hosting gatherings. Underground parking and a great location. MLS#1038786
THE HEIGHT OF LUXURY LIVING
$2,085,000 INGRID JARISZ* 250.385.2033 (*personal real estate corp)
$2,250,000 INGRID JARISZ* 250.385.2033 (*personal real estate corp)
Corner suite, facing east and north with mountain and ocean views, meticulously maintained. Spacious 1500+ sq ft open floor plan with hardwood floors, large foyer, in-suite laundry, bonus storage room, energy efficient windows and centralized hot water. Enjoy watching beautiful sunrises, passing cargo/cruise ships & wildlife from your balcony. MLS#1044300
This end unit has a stunning 2,092sf open floor plan of unparalleled luxury in this exquisite residence boasting breathtaking views. Enjoy the gourmet chef’s kitchen and S/W deck for alfresco dining while enjoying spectacular sunsets. The primary suite is a private sanctuary and bonus features such as a 5zone heatpump make this home complete. MLS#1047324
This SW corner unit provides exceptionally quiet, ocean, mountain, golf course views with an abundance of natural light. Exceptional 2 bed/2 bath home exudes sophisticated elegance with its meticulously curated 2,092sf layout, including guest bedroom wing, media room and office. Bonus: 3 secure parking stalls and EV charger. MLS#1047024
LUXURY LIVING AT SAYWARD HILL $2,200,000 INGRID JARISZ* 250.385.2033 (*personal real estate corp)
EXQUISITELY POSITIONED LUXURIOUS FAMILY HOME $1,775,000 INGRID JARISZ* 250.385.2033 (*personal real estate corp)
THE WAVE AT SAYWARD HILL! $1,550,000 INGRID JARISZ* 250.385.2033 (*personal real estate corp)
Magnificent corner, split-level TOWNHOUSE with inspiring views of Mt. Baker, Salish Sea and Cordova Bay Golf Course. Thoughtfully designed to exude sophistication & elegance, this residence boasts top-tier finishes and is MOVE-IN READY with numerous updates. Over-sized double garage, ample storage and prime location, offering the ultimate Westcoast lifestyle. MLS#1043221
Within a secluded enclave of only 8 residences, this home epitomizes refined elegance. The grandeur unfolds with formal LR, leading to vast Great Room. Ascend to sprawling guest room/home office followed by 3 BEDROOMS & convenient laundry. Lower level offers abundant storage space & fully self-contained 1 BED LEGAL SUITE. MLS#1044765
Exceptionally bright, meticulously maintained quality built condo with concrete/steel construction, 1,894sf, 2BD/2BA+Media, featuring floor-to-ceiling windows capturing brilliant sunrises, and premium panoramic unobstructed vistas - the best views and sun from the WEST CORNER! 2 U/G stalls w/ EV Charger, & storage make this a great opportunity in one of Victoria's finest communities. MLS#1040941
CORDOVA BAY VIEW ACREAGE $2,185,000 BRENT MCMAHON* 250.418.5391 Dinnie Smyth | McMahon | Real Estate Group (*personal real estate corp)
brentmcmahon@gmail.com
UPGRADED LANGFORD TOWNHOUSE $699,000 BRENT MCMAHON* 250.418.5391 Dinnie Smyth | McMahon | Real Estate Group (*personal real estate corp)
brentmcmahon@gmail.com
WATERFRONT PARADISE $2,495,000 DEBRA BARTLETT 250.893.5098 debrabartlett.ca
Rare 1.27-acre private estate in sought-after Cordova Ridge with ocean views, Mt. Baker vistas and endless potential to renovate or build. Custom home with in-law suite, detached cottage, workshop, tennis/sport court and exceptional privacy, just a short walk to the beach, parks and Broadmead. MLS#1041801
2020 built centrally located townhouse walking distance to shops and trails is perfect for professionals and young families. 3bed 3bath 1462sqft with tandem garage, vaulted ceilings and upgrades throughout: heat pump, lighting, all window coverings and closet organizers. MLS#1048038
Fabulous 5BR, 2 BA waterfront with 180° views! Enjoy the incredible sunsets and watch eagles and seals cavorting. Private sandy beach. Chef's kitchen has been updated with crisp white shaker cabinets and stainless-steel appliances. Over 1,900 sqft of deck. Rare 1.25 acres. Subdivision potential. MLS#1041171 Seaside | OCTOBER 2026 | 101
CUSTOM BUILT 1987 HOME $1,249,000 MICHELLE MARTIN* and ROB ROLSTON* 250.893.9975 beaconrealtygroup.ca (*personal real estate corp)
1125 Marin Park Dr. Welcome to this stunning, custom-built 2-bedroom, 3-bathroom home located in the highly desirable and beautiful Brentwood Bay.
PRISTINE PRIVACY ON 2 ACRES WITH SUNSET VIEWS
The chef-ready kitchen was completely updated in 2023 with premium new cabinets and a high-end induction oven.
MARIANN ABRAM* 250.884.6796 mariann@mariannabram.com
$1,429,900
(*personal real estate corp)
MLS#1048432
GREAT HOME HEART OF BRENTWOOD BAY $1,099,000 MICHELLE MARTIN* and ROB ROLSTON* 250.893.9975 beaconrealtygroup.ca (*personal real estate corp)
7115 Wallace Dr. This spacious 5-bed, 3-bath home offers comfortable living space on a fully fenced lot perfect for gardening. Main level features bright, functional floor plan with large bright family room. Downstairs offers additional 2 bedrooms, kitchen and living room.
MLS#1043679
RESORT-STYLE 55+ 2BED/2BATH TOWNHOUSE $669,900 MARIANN ABRAM* 250.884.6796 mariann@mariannabram.com (*personal real estate corp)
MLS#1049059
SPACIOUS AND AFFORDABLE! $369,900 KAREN DINNIE-SMYTH* 250.213.6017 Dinnie Smyth | McMahon | Real Estate Group (*personal real estate corp)
karendinnie-smyth.com 102 | OCTOBER 2026 | Seaside
303 - 642 Admirals Road. Spacious top-floor 2-bedroom condo offering approx. 900 sq. ft., nearly 9' ceilings, skylights, insuite laundry, storage and parking. A comfortable, affordable home close to Saxe Point, Macaulay Point, Naden, the West Bay Walkway, shopping, transit and everyday amenities. MLS#1048063
754 Walfred Rd. Rare estate with sweeping mountain and lake views. Updated 3-bedroom, 3-bath mid-century rancher offers vaulted ceilings, open living, brand-new kitchen and ensuite, serene primary suite, plus a sun-filled family room ideal for a studio or future suite, gazebo, gardens, workshop, and office or gym space.
Updated and move-in ready! Vibrant, pet-friendly community where residents enjoy premium amenities including a clubhouse, pool, sauna, gym, RV parking. Beautifully updated home with a south-facing private patio, heat pump with A/C, garage and 2nd parking. Carefree living just minutes to downtown Sidney shops and all amenities. MLS#1048962
IN THE HEART OF BRENTWOOD BAY $509,000 KAREN DINNIE-SMYTH* 250.213.6017 Dinnie Smyth | McMahon | Real Estate Group (*personal real estate corp)
karendinnie-smyth.com
202 - 7070 West Saanich Road. Bright, tastefully renovated 2-bedroom condo with a spacious kitchen, hardwood floors, in-suite laundry and a sunny patio overlooking beautifully maintained gardens. Within easy walking distance of shops, restaurants, parks, cafés and everyday amenities.
CAPTURE the MOMENT
SUNSETS, SAILS & SEASIDE LIVING
7090 Brentwood Drive, Brentwood Bay.
$2,470,000
An Exceptional near Oceanfront Executive residence in sought-after Brentwood Bay, this beautifully updated home offers a rare blend of refined finishings, captivating views and coveted West Coast lifestyle!
MARILYN BALL 250.818.6489 victoriawaterfronts.com
MLS#1049636
SAANICH PENINSULA LIFESTYLE PHOTOGRAPHER
PUMPKIN PATCH MINIS RUNNING THROUGH THE MONTH OF OCTOBER
SUNNY SLOPES 5 ACRE FARM $2,658,000 MARILYN BALL 250.818.6489 victoriawaterfronts.com
1649 Charlton Rd, Saanich. This sunny and level property with good drainage is of storybook proportions with lovely slightly rolling, and otherwise level pastures. The 1979 built, 3800 sqft completely renovated home on the property bears testament to the strength of vision of this one-owner farm. A pleasure to behold!
SARAHHARTLEYPHOTOGRAPHY@GMAIL.COM 250.686.2957 ∙ WWW.SARAHHARTLEY.MYPIXIESET.COM
MLS#1044321
Help us build an extraordinary new Rescue & Adoption Centre to save our community’s most vulnerable animals. EXCEPTIONAL VALUE $1,295,000 STEPHANIE PEAT & WENDY BERKE 250.656.0131 stephaniepeat.ca victoriahomesales.com
7348 Ridgedown Crt, Saanichton. First time on the market! Beautiful Saanichton home offering 4 bedrooms, flexible living spaces, suite potential, pastoral views and a private fenced yard. Quiet cul-de-sac location, with easy access to Sidney and Victoria. Priced below BC Assessment!
Donate Today: BuildingLove.ca 778-265-0788
MLS #1049990
Seaside | OCTOBER 2026 | 103
SEASIDE LIVING
Ins & Outs:
Glass Bottle & Jar Recycling WORDS CRD Glass bottles and jars are a common part of everyday life – from pasta sauce and jam to pickles and beverages. While they're fully recyclable, the most environmentally friendly option is to reuse them first whenever possible. After a quick wash, glass bottles and jars can enjoy a second life as storage for leftovers, pantry staples, homemade dressings, coffee and tea, hardware, craft supplies, or even fresh flowers and plant cuttings. When a glass container has reached the end of its useful life, recycling is the next best option. In B.C., glass bottles and jars are collected separately from other recycling materials. When glass is placed in the mixed container or paper recycling stream, it can break during collection and processing, contaminating paper and other recyclable materials while also creating a safety issue for staff handling these materials.
ACCEPTED AND NON-ACCEPTED GLASS FOR RECYCLING Glass bottles and jars accepted through home or depot recycling are considered glass packaging because they originally contained food or beverages. Examples of accepted glass packaging include: pasta sauce, jam, salsa and pickle jars. Other household glass items are considered glass products, not packaging. These items are made from different types of glass that melt at different temperatures and cannot be recycled with glass bottles and jars. Examples of non-accepted glass items include: drinking 104 | OCTOBER 2026 | Seaside
and wine glasses, window glass, mirrors, Pyrex and bakeware, ceramics and picture frame glass. Broken household glass should be safely wrapped before placing it in the garbage.
HOW TO PREPARE GLASS FOR RECYCLING Whether you're using curbside collection, a depot or apartment recycling program, preparing glass is simple. Give it a quick rinse; a small amount of residue is OK, but containers should be mostly clean. Leave labels on. Remove lids and place them in your mixed recycling bin. Never put glass in a plastic bag before placing in recycling bin. Be aware that in B.C., glass bottles and jars are always put into their own designated bin – either at the curb, in an apartment or condo recycling room, or at the depot. Residents receiving CRD curbside blue box collection can recycle glass bottles and jars by placing them in a separate bin. An old plastic tub or pail can be used to contain your clean glass containers. Cardboard boxes, paper bags or plastic bags are not suitable receptacles for your glass containers. You can email infoline@crd.bc.ca to have a Glass Bottles and Jars Only sticker for your glass bin mailed to your house. Apartment and condo buildings are serviced by private waste and recycling companies rather than the CRD's curbside collection program. Recycling services vary between buildings and service providers, so residents should follow the instructions provided by their property manager or strata.
SEASIDE EVENTS
Seaside Guide:
What to See & Where to Be OCTOBER 2026
Musical Melange Series 2:
Broke and Blue
OCTOBER 25TH 2PM CENTRAL SAANICH UNITED CHURCH 7180 EAST SAANICH ROAD, SAANICHTON Musical Melange is a partnership between Central Saanich United Church and Augmented Trio Promotions, presenting monthly performances in the church’s beautiful, century-old sanctuary throughout the fall and spring. This designated historic building, with its warm wooden interior, offers a welcoming atmosphere and wonderful acoustics. Held every fourth Sunday of the month at 2 p.m., each concert showcases a unique mix of professional musicians and ensembles, coordinated by Kathryn Le Gros, Lisa Tinney and Diane Berry. This month’s featured performance is Broke and Blue, a dynamic jazz-classical fusion ensemble featuring flute, piano and bass. These talented musicians will present a program of music by Claude Bolling, Uwe Korn along with some familiar tunes. With music spanning rock, pop, jazz, swing, funk, blues, Latin, classical and contemporary classical, there’s something for everyone. All ages and abilities are welcome. Enjoy refreshments during intermission and an afternoon of live music, community and joy – with something new to discover each month! Concert tickets are $20 through Eventbrite, $25 at the door, or you can subscribe to any four concerts for only $70. For more information visit www.augmentedtriopromotions.com or www.centralsaanichunited.ca.
WORDS LEAH-ANNE MACLEOD
SATURDAYS UNTIL OCTOBER 10TH 9AM-1PM
OCTOBER 13TH 10AM
Peninsula Country Market
Probus Club of Sidney Speaker Chris Kilford
SAANICH FAIRGROUNDS 1528 STELLY’S CROSS ROAD, SAANICHTON More than 60 vendors offer fresh, local food, artisan goods, baked treats, flowers and so much more! Live music every Saturday. Free admission. www.peninsulacountrymarket.ca SATURDAYS UNTIL OCTOBER 10TH 9:30AM-12PM
North Saanich Farm Market ST. JOHN’S UNITED CHURCH 10990 WEST SAANICH ROAD, NORTH SAANICH A beloved community market. Shop farm-fresh produce and local crafts with live music every week. Admission is free. www.northsaanichfarmmarket.ca OCTOBER 3RD & 4TH 10AM-4PM DAILY
ArtSea Studio Tour OPEN ARTIST STUDIOS ACROSS THE SAANICH PENINSULA
MARY WINSPEAR CENTRE 2243 BEACON AVENUE, SIDNEY Speaker: Chris Kilford – Canada and the Changing World Order. As global power disperses and the familiar architecture of the world gives way to a new, uncharted era, a powerful truth is emerging: the future will not be written by superpowers alone. It will be shaped by the imagination and ambition of nations that dare to see beyond their size – and Canada is poised to be one of them. www.probussidneybc.org OCTOBER 16TH 12-2PM
SHOAL Oktober Fest BEACON COMMUNITY SERVICES AT THE SHOAL CENTRE 10030 RESTHAVEN DRIVE, SIDNEY Enjoy a hearty German-inspired lunch, live music by the Victoria Accordion Club, and festive fun, all in support of senior music programs. $40 for SHOAL Members | $48 for Non-Members. For more information, or to purchase tickets, please contact the SHOAL Centre at 250-656-5537.
Discover 44 local artists and step inside the creative spaces where their work comes to life during the 32nd annual ArtSea Studio Tour. Use the online interactive map to plan your self-guided route across the Saanich Peninsula, explore diverse artistic media and enjoy a welcoming weekend of art, conversation and community.
OCTOBER 16TH 2-3PM
www.artsea.ca
Speaker: John Lutz – “How a smallpox epidemic shaped modern British Columbia.” The CSSCA Speaker’s Series happens monthly at The Centre in Brentwood Bay. In October, the centre is excited to have UVic professor of History John Lutz speak on this topic. Admission by donation. Open to the public.
OCTOBER 4TH 7PM
Jazz Vespers Featuring the John Lee Trio ST. JOHN’S UNITED CHURCH 10990 WEST SAANICH ROAD, NORTH SAANICH Multi-instrumentalist John Lee will play guitar, and will be joined by Tony Genge on organ and Kelby MacNayr on drums. There is no admission charge. An offering will be taken to fairly compensate the musicians and cover the Vespers program (suggested donation $20 per person). For further information, please call Bernadette at 250-656-0875 or email bernadettegreene789@gmail.com.
CSSCA Speakers’ Series THE CENTRE FOR ACTIVE LIVING 50+ 1229 CLARKE ROAD, BRENTWOOD BAY (NEXT TO THE LIBRARY)
www.cssca.ca OCTOBER 17TH 2-3PM
Concert: Edie Daponte Trio ST PAUL’S UNITED CHURCH 2410 MALAVIEW AVENUE, SIDNEY Popular music concert featuring Edie Daponte Trio. Doors open at 1:30 p.m. Tickets $25 available at Tanner’s, 3common, church office and at the door. www.stpaulsunitedbc.com/events
OCTOBER 6TH & 20TH 2-4PM
OCTOBER 22ND 6:30-7:30PM
The Socrates Café
Chai with the Rug Guy
BEACON BREWING 9839 THIRD STREET, SIDNEY
SIDNEY PIER HOTEL 9805 SEAPORT PLACE, SIDNEY
Come explore a variety of topics and perspectives with others. The Socrates Café is part of a global movement designed to inspire curiosity and nurture self discovery. Drop by and listen, share your thoughts and meet new people.
Spend an evening learning the history and importance of handknotted rugs, all while learning how two types of chai are made. A special one-on-one time with Bunyaad Director Yousaf Chaman as part of the Sidney Annual Fair Trade Rug Event.
250-544-6398
www.bunyaad.com/event/chai-with-the-rug-guy-sidney
Have something for Seaside Guide?
EMAIL SEASIDEGUIDE@SEASIDEMAGAZINE.CA SUBMISSION DEADLINE 1ST OF THE PREVIOUS MONTH (E.G. OCTOBER 1 FOR NOVEMBER ISSUE EVENTS) 106 | OCTOBER 2026 | Seaside
Crafted Farmhouse Market
My role as a Member of Parliament is one of service. I work for you.
MARY WINSPEAR CENTRE 2243 BEACON AVENUE, SIDNEY
My non-partisan team in the Sidney office can help with CRA, Immigration, CPP, and more.
Enjoy a unique shopping experience! Proudly featuring 60+ Local Artisans, Local Live Music, Food Trucks, Friday evening Sip and Shop, and Mini Makers. $5 cash admission, kids 12 and under free. www.craftedfarmhousemarket.ca
SAANICH-GULF ISLANDS
OCTOBER 23RD 5-9PM & OCTOBER 24TH 10AM-5PM
If you have any questions, please call or email Elizabeth.May.C1@parl.gc.ca
250
657-2000
OCTOBER 24TH 10AM-1PM
elizabethmaymp.ca
Repair Café ST. PAUL'S UNITED CHURCH 2410 MALAVIEW AVENUE, SIDNEY Able volunteers help community members learn more about making minor repairs to everything from electrical appliances and fixtures to bicycles, wood furniture, electronic items and more. Repairs are by donation, with all proceeds going to local community groups. www.repaircafenorthsaanich.ca OCTOBER 24TH 7-9PM
Concert: The Haven ST PAUL’S UNITED CHURCH 2410 MALAVIEW AVENUE, SIDNEY Dance concert with “The Haven.” Doors open at 6:30 p.m. Tickets $20 available at Tanner’s, 3common, church office and at the door.
THE HARBOUR IS WAITING. SO IS YOUR TABLE. RESERVE YOUR TABLE 2320 HARBOUR RD, SIDNEY · 778 400 9899 · WESTCOASTGRILL.CA
www.stpaulsunitedbc.com/events OCTOBER 27TH 2PM
CFUW Speaker Series
Proudly Growing Roses on Vancouver Island for 45 Years
OUR ROSE SUBSCRIPTION The gift that sends love all year!
MARY WINSPEAR CENTRE, ROOM 2 2243 BEACON AVENUE, SIDNEY Speaker: Gael Hannan, Hearing Loss Advocate, Writer, Speaker, Humorist – "How to Cheat at Hearing Loss." Hearing loss impacts almost every area of our lives. While hearing aids are modern miracles of technology, living skillfully with hearing loss requires the use of additional strategies. Gael will share tips, insights and humour from her own lifelong journey. The meeting is free to members and their guests; $10 for non-members. www.cfuwsaanichpeninsula.org OCTOBER 27TH 6:30-7:30PM
The Art of the Knot (formerly Lego Night)
SIDNEY PIER HOTEL 9805 SEAPORT PLACE, SIDNEY Learn about the artistry behind these gorgeous rugs, fair trade, and the incredible artisans who create them – all while building your own block masterpiece. Bring a partner, a friend, your kiddo, or make it a quirky date night! This is an all-ages experience designed to be enjoyed together. www.bunyaad.com/event/the-art-of-the-knot-whereknots-meet-blocks-sidney
Elevate Your Table with Farm-to-Door Fresh Roses, Grown Here in B.C.! SHOP ONLINE! Delivery or Pickup – Free Shipping on Your First Order
1246 Greig Ave, Brentwood Bay • www.eurosa.bc.ca
A CUP OF KINDNESS Tell us about an act of kindness you experienced and get a cup of coffee on us! Share your story with allison@seasidemagazine.ca until October 31, 2026
SEASIDE LIVING
• Acid-free boxes and folders
erasing your past. Ask yourself:
• Vertical storage to prevent bending
• Does this item bring me joy or meaning?
Managing Lifelong Memories:
• Clear labels for easy identification
• Is the memory already preserved elsewhere?
• Cool, dry storage areas (avoid basements and attics)
• Could someone else cherish this more?
Displaying Memories
You might donate, gift items to family or keep one representative piece and photograph the rest.
Organizing Photographs, Letters & Keepsakes WORDS TASLEEM JESSANI MANGO TANGO INTERIORS & SIMPLIFIED LIVING SOLUTIONS Time moves quickly, and we often don’t realize the value of a moment until it has passed. Photographs, letters, postcards and keepsakes freeze pieces of our lives, allowing us to return to people, places and experiences that shaped us. When loved ones are gone, these items often become priceless – sometimes all we have left. Over the years, meaningful items can accumulate and turn into clutter, making it harder to enjoy them. Organizing your memories helps preserve your history, reduce stress and ensure these items bring comfort and connection rather than overwhelm. Start with a Plan Before you begin sorting, pause and ask: • What is my goal – preservation, decluttering or both? • How much time can I realistically spend on this each week? • Who else might want access to these memories? Sort items into simple categories, such as by decade,
108 | OCTOBER 2026 | Seaside
life event or family member. Use labelled folders, boxes or bins to keep everything clear and manageable. Digitizing Memories Digitizing protects your memories from loss, saves physical space and makes sharing easier. Helpful tools include: • Flatbed or high-speed scanners • Smartphone scanning apps
Curated displays help you enjoy memories regularly instead of keeping them hidden away. Ideas include: • Photo books such as yearly albums, family legacy books or themed collections (travel, childhood, milestones) • Online services like Shutterfly or Blurb for easy customization • Digital photo frames that rotate images and can be updated remotely – great for sharing with family across distances Creative Keepsake Projects If you enjoy hands-on projects, consider: • Shadow boxes combining photos and mementos • Memory quilts made from meaningful clothing or fabric • Story scrapbooks that pair photos with written memories
Sharing and Connecting Memories grow richer when shared. • Create shared cloud folders for family archives • Record oral histories from older relatives and connect stories to photos • Host “memory nights” to look through albums and share stories together Organizing your memories isn’t about letting go, it’s about honouring your life and making your history accessible. Start small: one envelope, one box or one drawer. Over time, you’ll build a meaningful collection that reflects your story with care and intention.
Letting Go with Intention
Because your story – and the story of those who came before you – is worth keeping.
Decluttering doesn’t mean
Mangotangointeriors.com
• Cloud storage (Google Photos, iCloud, Dropbox) Best practices: • Scan photos and documents at a minimum of 300 dpi
YOUR PENIN SULA VOICE
SOUP’S ON!
Warm He & Bellies arts
• Save files as JPEG, TIFF or PDF
Beach & WellnessForest HEALTH MATT ERS
Take Care of You
• Use consistent file names with dates and descriptions • Back up files in at least two places (such as cloud and external drive) Preserving Physical Keepsakes Not everything needs to be digitized; some items deserve to be kept in their original form. Protect them using:
JANUARY 2026
NATURE & NURT URE
YOUR PENINSULA VOICE
MAY 2026
PLEASURES OF PARKOUR
Tumbling Toddlers!
VOICE & VULNERABILITY
SUBSCRIBE TODAY SO YOU NEVER MISS AN ISSUE!
The Art of Kathleen Brophy RECOVERY TAILS SOCIETY
Pet Care for People Care
A Year of
w ExperienNe ce & Connect OUR FAMILY ISSUE
Life with Kids & Pets
www.seasidemagazine.ca/shop/
HOCKEY IS BACK Check our website for our October schedule:
Don’t miss Don’t miss out out on on our our HOCKEY FIGHTS HOCKEY FIGHTS CANCER CANCER NIGHT NIGHT benefitting the the Canadian Canadian Cancer Cancer benefitting th th Society on on October October 16 16 !! Society Pictures courtesy of Christian J. Stewart Photography
SEASIDE STORIES Last Word
I
have never considered myself a gardener. In fact, I’ve spent years insisting I don’t want plants to look after. Then, this summer, a neighbour gave me three plants: zucchini, cucumber and pepper. I accepted them, intending to pawn them off on my sister. Instead, I brought them home and got curious. I started looking up best practices, repotting, adding soil and plant food, and watching YouTube videos about powdery mildew. I’m admittedly no Martha Stewart, but somewhere along the way I really started to care. Every morning, I’d let Toby out for his "business," then shuffle outside in my slippers to see what had grown overnight. The plants seemed to stretch a little farther toward the sky every day. As an avid zucchini lover and Saturday farmers market shopper, seeing those zucchini spring to life was thrilling. It was such a small scale version of growing food, but it changed how I saw the work behind my usual market haul. I’ve always appreciated our farmers, but tending my three pots made the time and energy involved feel more tangible. It gave me more gratitude for the hardworking people who do this on a larger scale. It’s made me think about how much work we don’t see behind the things we enjoy, including the local businesses featured in this month’s issue. On page 12, Building the Exceptional looks at the thought and care woven into the experiences we return to, while on page 10, Carmel Graham’s journey from a Facebook post to film hairstyling shows how a career can grow through skill, relationships and persistence. We often enjoy the finished product without seeing what it took to make it flourish. That’s what I’ll remember most about my little garden. Not that I grew a few vegetables, but that I got to see the work behind something I usually take for granted. And tomorrow morning, I’ll still be in my pajamas, checking to see what grew overnight. Tabatha Golat, Editorial Director
Clothing provided and styled by Sidney Pier & Path. Shot on location at Heritage Acres with props from Michell's Farm. PHOTO JANIS JEAN
110 | OCTOBER 2026 | Seaside
a h t a b a T t a l o G
SEASIDE LIVING Jumble
The sad ghost at the dance had ... ETHARON BONAJ AOTDP RALYE ANSWER:
to dance with.
How to Play: Unscramble each of the clue words. Take the letters that appear in boxes and unscramble them to solve the final message. JUMBLE SOLUTIONS Answer: no body another • banjo • adopt • layer
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!
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