Seaside Times December 2011 Issue by Seaside Magazine

WEST COAST CULTURE DECEMBER 2011

The most precious gifts this season are not on any list . . . Sidney SeniorCare knows that there are more important gifts to give than those wrapped in festive packages. Let’s spread some comfort and joy to our seniors in the spirit of the season, and make their holiday brighter this year. SSC can help you do that with in-home support and flexible services that will ensure a better quality of life no matter what the time of year.

• personal care • meal prep • shopping • housekeeping & laundry • general maintenance • companionship & respite care • transportation & customized outings

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Come visit our Seniors DayCare & Educational Centre located right next door.

Fairyt ales Do Come True! P E NI NS U

CE L

EBRATIO

NS C IET Y

Peninsula Celebrations Society

Find full event details and upcoming events at PeninsulaCelebrations.ca

7th Annual Saanichton Community Christmas ~ Dec 10

Event Line: 250.656.4365

THE 2012 POLAR BEAR SWIM

JAN 1 NOON

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SIDNEY 9810 Seventh Street, Sidney 250.656.0946

CENTRAL SAANICH 7860 Wallace Drive, Saanichton 250.544.0980

Seaside Times

contents

west coast culture â&#x20AC;&#x201C; december 2011 issue features

Community People, Community Coffee A whole new "crop" of community minded people featured at Fresh Cup CafĂŠ in Saanichton!

Adventure! 34 Arctic Parkland student spends

two weeks on research icebreaker. Restaurant Spotlight 42 Culinary Ecstasy! The Latch Inn & Restaurant

Columns First Word............................................ 6 Island Dish.........................................16 Smell the Coffee............................. 22 Forbes & Marshall........................... 25 Skin Deep......................................... 35 Weatherwit...................................... 37 Tweet This!........................................ 45 Last Word......................................... 63

departments 7................................................. Letters 12................................... Can We Talk? 38......................................... Footprints 49................................... Seaside News 57.....................................Grey Matters 60..........................What's Happening 62.................................. Entertainment

38 52

On the cover: "First Snow at Goldstream (2011)" by Jordan Insley. www.jinsleyphoto.com

www.seasidetimes.ca

first w o rd In a flick of an eyelash, 2011 will come to a close and we will embark on a new year. But before the year ends, we still need to go through the frenetic upswing of seasonal shopping and events. Hopefully the busy period will give way to a calm and relaxing holiday season, laying the groundwork for a great 2012. With this issue of Seaside Times, we hope to make your seasonal shopping a bit easier. We have a sampling of unique products and services available at a number of fine stores on the Peninsula. I know that these gift-giving ideas will factor in my holiday shopping, and I hope that you are equally inspired. Don’t forget to enter the "Sidney Shopping Spree" contest this month; see page 41 for details. This is also the time of the year for giving and reflecting, with friends, families and yes, even strangers.

Many of us know some of the less fortunate, so let’s remember to give as much as we can this year, whether it’s a simple smile at one another on the street or a small food donation: we can all make a difference. With reflection comes thoughts of the past year. For me, it’s been a big one, a year of change, especially with my purchase of Seaside Times. I’m so thankful to Tim Flater, who found me and approached me with the idea to buy. As well, I reflect on my family and friends. Not only do I have the two most beautiful kids in the world (thanks to my husband), I’m always humbled by the support and love of my friends and colleagues. This is a special "thank you" to all of you – you know who you are. This is our last issue of Seaside Times for 2011 and so it is only fitting that I pause to express our gratitude for your readership and support. The entire Seaside family works hard to publish our magazine, and all your positive feedback makes it worthwhile. On behalf of the whole team at Seaside, thank you. We look forward to providing you with the very best magazine we can in 2012. Best of the season to everyone, Lucas, Eva and Mom (aka publisher)

Sue Hodgson, Publisher

Broadmead Village in Victoria JUST GOT A LITTLE MORE CHARMING PANDORA has been making its mark in the international fine jewelry industry for almost 30 years, and is world-renowned for its high-quality, hand finished design. Available in more than 55 countries on six continents through over 10,000 points of sale. PANDORA is pleased to announce the grand opening of its newest retail location this December, inside Knickerbocker’s at Broadmead Village shopping center in Victoria, BC. Knickerbocker’s has been a PANDORA retailer since 2008, and currently distributes PANDORA at its two Vancouver Island locations in Sidney and Brentwood Bay. “Women in Victoria have embraced the PANDORA brand as a way to express their individuality, and we’re excited to offer them the opportunity to come and explore the latest pieces from the Autumn/Winter collection at our new store,” said Kristine Flater, owner of Knickerbocker’s.

Hand-Finished & Genuine

Every facet and feature of PANDORA jewellery is carefully considered before it leaves the hands of our goldsmiths. We meticulously select the highest quality 14K and 18K gold, 925 silver and genuine gemstones when combining century-old craftsmanship with modern thinking and beautiful design. With up to 40 expert hands touching every piece, the level of craftsmanship is unsurpassed in the world. No two pieces are ever exactly alike – reflecting the individuality of every woman who wears it.

www.knickerbockers.ca Knickerbocker’s Gifts 12-7103 West Saanich Rd. Brentwood Bay, B.C. 250-544-8211

Knickerbocker’s Seaside 2536 Beacon Ave. Sidney. B.C. 250-656-5506

Knickerbocker’s Victoria 320-777 Royal Oak Dr Victoria, B.C. 250-658-5578

Knickerbockers_StoreAd_Sep29_11_HP.indd 1

SEASIDE TIMES

www.seasidetimes.ca

10/13/2011 2:22:05 PM

letters

www.seasidetimes.ca Publisher, Advertising Sales

Seaside Times welcomes your feedback! Please send letters to the editor via editor@seasidetimes.ca. I just finished reading the comment from Gerry re the Autumn Pork Pie (October 2011 Island Dish recipe) and was surprised at the response as I also made it. I thought it was delicious … I had a group of girlfriends over for an autumn dinner and everyone loved it. It presented well with the brie cheese and pecans and parsley. I would definitely make it again. Jill Niessen

Sue Hodgson 250.516.6489 sue@seasidetimes.ca

Editor-in-Chief Allison Smith 250.813.1745 editor@seasidetimes.ca

✢ ✢ ✢

Advertising Sales Lori Swan 250.516.6489

This Month’s Contributors Arlene Antonik • Trysh Ashby-Rolls • Jennifer Bowles Chris Burdge • Michael Forbes • Dave Gartley Doreen Marion Gee • Valerie Green • Sharon Hope Jordan Insley • Tina Kelly • Linda M. Langwith • Lisa Makar Barry Mathias • Steve Sakiyama • Steve Sheppard Susan Simosko • Geoff Smith • Heather Zais Seaside Times magazine is printed 12 times a year in Richmond, British Columbia by Rhino Print Solutions. Reproduction in whole or in part without permission is prohibited. Reproduction requests may be made to the editor or publisher via the above means. Views of contributors do not necessarily reflect the policy or views of the publisher and editor. Staff of the magazine cannot be held responsible for unsolicited manuscripts or photographs.

Another great issue ladies. Loved the cover and smacked my lips over the rock cod. Beautiful it is not; however, it rivals our Pacific salmon when it comes to eating. Enjoyed First Word and Last Word by you two. Such timely articles throughout and I Do by Trysh Ashby-Rolls was refreshing. Brought it to Sandra's attention in particular to thwart her threats to write me off. In other words, we "old guys" can always find a new mate should she ever have a burst of good taste and leave me. Here on the Island, we are privileged to have such a quality and locally oriented publication as Seaside Times. Keep it up. Okay? Best as always, Larry Gray (Heritage House Bed and Breakfast)

✢ ✢ ✢ Let me say how impressed we were with the November edition. Many of the people featured are friends and longtime acquaintances and the photography and write-ups are very good. Terry Melville

✢ ✢ ✢

This month's Seaside Times is better than ever. I loved the portraits and hope to see more. Please pass on my congratulations to Sue on excellent changes made since she has taken over. I am glad you are still including Val Green's historical conversations. Regards, Joan Neudecker

In-Room at: 250-655-9445

250-544-2079

Emerald Isle Motor Inn

Saanich Historical Artifacts Foundation presents:

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Visit Santa • Entertainment • Train Rides Refreshments • Christmas Lights Raﬄe • Prizes … and more!

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december 2011

A new business for Sidney!

One of the things I love most about Sidney is our amazing and unique retail

shops. Sidney continues to grow as a retail destination and I for one LOVE shopping here! So many of the shops are owner-operated and original – it makes me feel good to shop in our community. Sidney balances long-time retailers who provide consistency and newcomers who create diversity. So, as a diehard Sidney shopper, the changes at Mineral World are very exciting and meaningful to me. Mineral World is creating a new business brand which will incorporate their amazing line of unique gemstones and sterling silver jewellery. Many people don’t realize the incredible selection of jewellery and gifts that Mineral World carries, primarily because the business is associated with the science and children’s attraction that residents have enjoyed for so many years. Mineral World and the Scratch Patch will celebrate their one-year anniversary in the new location with the addition of Pebbles, their new jewellery store. Pebbles will share the same location as Mineral World and will focus on offering the kind of unique and quality items that Sidney retailers are known for. The selection at Pebbles will ensure that you can find something for everyone in your life… most importantly: yourself! It’s nice to see a business that is maintaining what we know and love about it while also expanding and offering new and exciting things to buy… just in time for the holidays! Speaking of the holidays, bring the family to Mineral World between December 10th and January 3rd when the Scratch Patch will be transformed to Santa’s Work Shoppe; admission to the Scratch Patch is always free. Signed,

add a little s cial or om spe eth e ive him a g n d n o A little ing e s. m s m e co so dg m hiny fo to y an rt e er a l el

Give the g specialize in uniqu ift of e W es ton spa e j rkl ew

utfit. ay o re man cha lid in-sto ir. ho our ur th yo y wi jo

The Scratch Patch will be presenting "Santa's Workshop" from Dec. 10th to Jan. 3rd, Admission is always free!

play, discover and learn

Ivana Shop (...in Sidney)

9808 Seaport Place, Sidney

www.mineralworld.ca

Mineral World and the Scratch Patch

9808 Seaport Place, Sidney www.mineralworld.ca

the new jewellery store at Mineral World

Michell Bros. Farm was started in the mid-1800s when Vern’s great-grandfather returned from the goldmines of the Yukon to buy 100 acres of land for a dollar an acre. It has been farmed ever since. Vern is hugely proud that six generations have been continuously farming the land.

Community People, Community Coffee A whole new "crop" of community minded people featured at Fresh Cup Café in Saanichton! by Steve Sheppard When it comes to coffee I know a good cup, and instead of the traditional pastry that most have on the side I thoroughly enjoy the low-cal snack of people watching. Often referred to as the "Heart of the Peninsula," not just because of its location but for the surrounding farmland, the village of Saanichton provides a vibrant element to the historic Saanich Peninsula. When asked to introduce this month’s edition of Community People, Community Coffee I jumped aboard and learned there are unique forces at work and play here. Farmland is abundant in this small community, and local farmer Vern Michell has successfully brought the essence of the farm-gate experience to our doorstep. Just a short way up the SEASIDE TIMES

road you come face-to-face with a small orchard and a beautiful building where Kristen Jordan transforms locally grown apples into award-winning cider. Travel across the picturesque Mount Newton Valley to Woodwynn Farms and you’ll discover farmland shaped differently, in contrast, for those in need, with Richard Leblanc at the helm. Every great community needs a little protection, and three amazing women in this edition lead by example and give back to the community using communication and a classy touch. When things get too hot to handle, Jamie Day and the staff at the Prairie Inn always find a way to cool things down. I think everyone agrees that the youth of our community is the future – Stelly’s Secondary is www.seasidetimes.ca

responsible for many great meals we enjoy locally through the dedication of Carla and Peggy, who support the upand-coming "foodies" of our community. Stelly’s is also home to a world-class indoor climbing facility that inspires Kimanda Jarzebiak. Even in the quietest moments, don’t be surprised if you hear music coming from the piano or guitar of Sam Weber. Sam’s one of those people who has music in his veins. It makes me smile to think how many talented people live in such a small community; we even have a smile specialist in Dr. Richard Burns. So, sit back and enjoy the magic of Geoff Smith's images with a coffee at Fresh Cup and get acquainted with what makes Saanichton Village a special part of the Saanich Peninsula. Photo this page and following pages courtesy Geoff Smith. december 2011

(1) Kimanda force (1) Kimandaisisthe thedriving driving force behind theBoulders BouldersClimbing Climbing behind the Gym. Their8,000 8,000-square-foot Gym, their s/f expansion expansion, the gym the opens at themaking end of November largest in Canada, opened at which will make it the largest in the end of November. There are Canada. There climbers from climbers from are all over the world all over the world moving to the moving to the area to train. area to train.

(2) “It’s so nice for these young people recognized; they (2) “It’s to so be nice for these young do such great work.” That’s people to be recognized, they the voicegreat of Stelly's do such work.” Culinary That’s the School's committed teacher, voice of their committed teacher, Peggy. The school has been Peggy. Stelly’s Culinary School running for over 25 years, and has been for over 25 there’s a running lot of pride here.

years. There’s a lot of pride here.

(3) Kristen grew up around apples. Hergrew father (3) Kristen up owned around an orchard in Shuswap, so when apples; her father owned an she looked for a business the orchard in Shuswap so when apple didn’t fall far from the she looked forhas a business the tree. Kristen been running appleCider didn’tFarm fall far the tree. Sea & from Ciderhouse Kristen hasyears beenand running Sea for seven couldn’t Cider for doing 7 yearsanything and couldn’t imagine else. “I love the land and I else. imagine doing anything love thethe people.” “I love land and I love the

people.”

(4) Sam is a guitar virtuoso and has been playing for 12 (4) SamAtis15 a guitar virtuoso years. he formed hisand own has been 12 years. band; dadplaying playedfordrums. Sam At 15 blues he formed own band, plays and his alternative rock dad played plays and his newdrums. albumSam River has just Bluesbeen and released. Alternative Rock, his

new album River has just been

(5) The Prairie Inn has been released. here since 1869 and Tony, Amy and Jamie have a total of 27 (5) Thebetween Prairie Inn has They been all here years them. since 1869, Tony, Amy and Jamie love the camaraderie of the a totaland of 27 years, love place the area.they “It’salllike the camaraderie the place and hanging out withofyour friends every day.” the area. “It’s like hanging out

with your friends every day.”

(6) Richard wouldn't want to a dentist anywhere (6)be Richard would not want to else: “I get to practise statebe a dentist anywhere of-the-art dentistry in else. such“I get to practice state-of-the-art bucolic scenery, surrounded dentistry in such bucolic scenery, by interesting and educated surrounded by interesting people. I teach regularly and in Seattle I am so gladregularly to educatedbut people. I teach come back in Seattle buttoI Saanichton.” am so glad to

come back to Saanichton”

(7) Man these cops are fit! They're runners, swimmers and (7) Man these copswhole are fit, tri-athletes. “Our group runners, has to beswimmers, the fittesttri-athletes. in town,” “Our say. whole group also has to be the they They're friendly: fittestdetachment in town.” And “our is friendly. small but it is so detachment much like aisfamily; I know “Our small but it everyone’s kids.” is so much like a family; I know

everyone’s kids.”

(8) Richard runs Woodwynn Farms, a therapeutic (8) Richard runs Woodwynn community for people who Farms,a ahand therapeutic community need up instead of a for people The whogroup's need a hand handout. visionup is instead a hand out. The groups to bringofhomeless people back into community by people visionthe is to bring homeless giving them the support back into community by giving and needed themthe thetools support and the tools to reclaim their self-worth.

needed to reclaim their self-worth.

ca n we talk? … Publisher Sue Hodgson talks with Patricia Haakonson,

hose of us who grew up in the Maritimes have great stories: what’s one of yours? What made you move to the West Coast?

community feeling on the Island. I love the sense of history that exists on the Island … we love everything about it!

I grew up in Halifax, on the Atlantic Ocean, and unfortunately am very allergic to shellfish. We used to have “lobster boils” in our backyard when I was younger. I was the sous-chef, helping my dad. When we were just about ready to eat, I would run into the house and make myself a peanut butter and jelly sandwich – that’s what I ate! We chose the West Coast because it was on the ocean. We like the small

As we all know, working in the corporate world can have its challenges. Having worked in high level government for most of your career and looking back at all that you’ve accomplished, is there anything you would have done differently? I would do many things differently. I would have worked less and played more! I would have made more time for friends and for my own health. Working 60 or 70 hours a week leaves little time to actually “have a life.” Time is short. There needs to be balance. What inspired you to write two bestselling books: “Easy LowCarb Cooking” and “Slow Carb for Life?” When I retired from the public service I was overweight and under fit! I took a year to get into shape and lost considerable weight. I started developing recipes, just for our family, and a friend suggested I write a cookbook. Both books stemmed from that suggestion and it was a wonderful experience for me. What started as a bit of a lark became a five-year project. It was hard work, but very rewarding. What changes have you seen in your life since you discovered this way of eating? In addition to a dramatic drop in my weight, there are many positive aspects to this way of eating. I have been able to keep the weight off for over 10 years and I am fit and active. We discovered that I am sensitive to gluten (found in wheat), and taking wheat out of my diet made a huge difference to my overall health. I had been tested years before for an allergy to wheat and the test was negative, but I am much healthier and happier without wheat in my diet. A few years ago you were introduced to Arbonne and launched your own business. What intrigued you about this particular business opportunity? Many things intrigued me about Arbonne. The company and the products are absolutely unique in the marketplace. I was

Patricia Haakonson

Regional Vice President Arbonne International

After 25 years in federal and provincial government, Patricia Haakonson wasn't looking for another career. Upon retirement, and searching for ways to get healthier, she wrote a cookbook and, with her physician husband’s help, a lifestyle book. Both became bestsellers, and the next five

years were spent traveling, doing media interviews and book signings. In 2006 she was introduced to Arbonne International and has since built another very successful career. With teams in Canada, the U.S., Australia and the U.K., Patricia's time is spent training and coaching her teams while continuing to build her business. Her advice? "Be genuine; lead from the heart; just be yourself and open yourself up to imagine the possibilities."

Regional Vice President, Arbonne International very impressed by the people and the level of professionalism. Everyone in Arbonne is taught to share and to help anyone else become successful. I did a lot of research before I decided to launch my business. I love the products! I love that I am an example of both how well the products work and that the earning opportunity is a profitable one. There are thousands of home-based businesses; what makes Arbonne unique? This company has been ahead of its time since its inception. We have always been a green company. We have never tested on animals or ever used animal products in our ingredients. All our products are botanically based and vegan certified. We are as concerned about educating the consumer as we are about sales. We provide a healthy alternative for skin care, bath and body, cosmetics and nutrition. None of our nutrition products contain gluten. Our products do not contain any of the toxic ingredients found in so many personal care products. We guarantee results and our products are 100% money-back guaranteed. In 2008, you received the “Top Canadian” award in the Area Manager category, and this year you were recognized as one of the top regional vice-presidents – what’s next? I plan to continue to work with my team to help them achieve the level of success they desire. I expect to promote to the top (senior) level of vicepresident within the next year. I hope to introduce the products and the income potential to many more people. You constantly travel to various parts of the world, training and working the business. Does it ever get tiring? I LOVE to travel, so it is never a hardship. My schedule is my own, so when I get a little tired I simply take a few days off. I am my own boss, so there is no one to ask if I can. I always take extra time around the holidays, and I always allow for some downtime and sight-seeing when I travel for my business. I also usuSEASIDE TIMES

ally take my wonderful husband with me for company. How fun is that? You could retire now and live a comfortable lifestyle. What makes you continue on this journey at 60 years of age? The truth of the matter is that I love what I do. I have never before experienced such a sense of accomplishment and fulfillment. The people that I work with are amazing, and I'm having a lot of fun. I will slow down at 65 but with this industry that means I will travel less, I will do less motivational training, I will work only with my team leaders. I will have a lot more personal time and still enjoy an amazing residual income! Looking back at your career of 25 years in government, if you knew the financial success and fulfillment you get from Arbonne, what would you tell someone contemplating a career? I would recommend that anyone starting out, or looking for a career change, take a serious look at Network Marketing. There are some really great books out there about the industry. Two of my favourites are The Business of the 21st Century by Robert Kiyosaki and The Flip Flop CEO by Janine Finney, Lory Muirhead and Whitney Roberts. I would recommend that everyone think of taking their financial and work future into their own hands. With the economy being what it is today, being your own CEP is your best bet for stability and for financial and time freedom. What are some of your favourite ways to spend your downtime? There are many things I enjoy: golf, Bikram’s hot yoga, spending time with my grandchildren, gardening, reading and watching movies. I make every effort to have a well-rounded life. I have plenty of time with family and friends. My business fits in around my life, instead of the other way around. I am happy and content. Questions? Email PatHaakonson@aol.com. Photo courtesy Geoff Smith. www.seasidetimes.ca

december 2011

Dreaming of a White Christmas

It was the usual "I don’t know how we’re going to get everything done" lead-up to Christmas, when the selfcongratulatory voices of the weather folk announced in delighted tones that huge dumps of snow were threatened for the evening of December 23rd and "even more on Christmas Eve!" The result on the Southern Gulf Islands was akin to a social revolution.

by Barry Mathias

tions, worried customers forgot their usual parsimonious $10 limit. The rumour mill was in top gear: "Knee deep it’s going to be." "I heard thigh deep." "Winds up to 60 km." "Gales! There’ll be no electricity." "Blizzards! Roads will be blocked for days." With the imminent arrival of a new ice age only hours away, dogs were given their last walks for the foreseeable future; log piles were moved into the house, complete with ants, spiders and dormant wasps; children polished their toboggans and concerned mothers checked out the first aid boxes.

Islanders, who had never been known to hurry, even for last orders in the pub, were seen buying up all the Christmas necessities as if a national strike were threatened: tin goods by the case, birdseed by the kilo, toilet rolls in army-sized packs and enough videos for a week of solid viewing. In food stores, the lines at the tills built up as shoppers used debit cards instead of cash and forgot their pin numbers; local liquor stores were so pressured they stopped asking seniors for their ID and at the Island gas sta-

Optometry Clinic Central Saanich 250-544-2210

When the first diffident flakes floated down from an iron sky, there was rejoicing in the ranks of the toboggan brigade, triumphant smiles from those who could still get into last year’s skiing gear and visions of big earnings

Paul Neumann, OD

Nikon Coatings

Central Saanich Optometry Clinic 1-7865 Patterson Road Saanichton, BC V8M 2C7

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SEASIDE TIMES

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from the "clear your drive for $10" entrepreneurs. However, when after some hours the flakes remained whimsical and powdery, and the expected car-covering depth was still being calculated in millimetres, there were mutinous rumblings at bedtime. Optimists, and those who looked forward to the annual heroics on the road, consoled themselves with "It’s set in. It’ll be terrible by the morning.” By the first light there was enough of the white stuff to allow the snow plows to terrorize the roads, dump mountains of salt and ensure the accelerated rusting of four-wheel-drive vehicles whose owners wished to demonstrate their prowess. Car mechanics and those who operated body shops smiled in their sleep whenever a salting truck growled past. "A rusting car! A rusting car! My income is a rusting car!"

There was a frantic clearing of driveways by some active souls, a hiding of snow shovels by others and the dutiful walking of bemused dogs that painted yellow pictures in pristine snow drifts. The trees sagged with laden branches and, aided by a rising wind, deposited their bounty on the unwary. Large children, muffled up in huge hats and scarves, tobogganed down steep, little-used roads, overturned half way down and were revealed as parents … while their children played computer games at home. Before the grey light had dimmed, a thaw had set in and by Christmas Eve there were nostalgic tremors in the voices of those who had spoken out against the evils of snow: "I hope we have a white Christmas like we used to when I was a kid!" Younger voices demanded in worried tones: "If the snow melts will Father Christmas still come?" Then it was morning. A stocking-filled, turkey aroma day with enough wet snow on the ground to convince even the greatest "Humbug!"-yelling pessimist that it was truly a white Christmas. So, what happened to the thigh-deep snow? Come on folks, we don’t live in Whitehorse, these are the lotus isles – a little bit of everything eh! december 2011

Roy Coburn

roy@victoriaacreages.com

William Bird

Gay Helmsing

Jeff Bryan

wm.d.bird@shaw.ca

ghelmsing@gmail.com

jeffbryan@shaw.ca

Gaye Phillips

Don Bellamy

info@donaldbellamy.com

Beverley McIvor

gayesoffice@shaw.ca

bevmcivor@shaw.ca

Celebrate & Peace Be With You Rene Blais

Ross Shortreed

renehblais@gmail.com

Debbie Gray

sagegray@shaw.ca

ross@rossshortreed.com

Jack Barker

jack@jackbarker.net

Lisa Dighton

ldighton@shaw.ca

Jim Allan

jimaallan@shaw.ca

Craig Walters

craig@craigwalters.net

Renee Colonnello

reneecolonnello@remax.net

island dish

Snowed Under for Gift Ideas? Think Snowdon House

Home Creation and Reinvention

by Jennifer Bowles

tidmangroup.com 250.652.1101 PREPARED FOR: TIDMAN CONSTRUCTION PUBLICATION: SEASIDE TIMES INSERTION DATE: JUNE 2011 SIZE: 3.75” X 4.925” PREPARED BY: BRAVO ADVERTISING 250 590 1169

Shop Something Different!

One of my favourites in Laura's collection is her culinary line (how unlike me!) which boasts homemade jellies and compotes, delightful sorbet mixes, mouthwatering brie toppers, home-grown preserves, tangy berry vinegars and an imported line of incredible dried pasta line called "Papparedelle’s." As far as I know, Snowdon House is one of the only retailers in Canada that carries this line, featuring both sweet and savoury creations. One of the highlights of this product line is its selection of gluten-free pastas for individuals who are Celiac, or with wheat-conscious dietary restrictions. These pastas don’t skimp on flavour and are all uniquely delicious.

C EEP OV

Offering You & Your Loved Ones “ Gourmet Goodness” This Holiday Season

MARKET 10940 W. Saanich Rd. North Saanich 250-656-2547 16

SEASIDE TIMES

1890 Mills Road in North Saanich is home to one of the south Island’s most intriguing local shops. Situated on a few majestic acres near Victoria airport, the renowned Snowdon House features spectacular handmade cards, paper goods and all manner of sumptuous edible gifts. Owner Laura Waters also produces aromatic bath products, stunning hand-crafted ornaments and beautiful little picture frames, all demonstrating an incredible level of artistic technique which is truly a cut above. Snowdon House is most certainly your go-to place this holiday season; guaranteed there is something for everyone on your list!

Papparadelle’s isn’t your average noodle! This pasta dazzled my taste buds with an amazing variety of flavours; try "Fanciful Fruit" with notes of mango and orange, perfect for a summer pasta salad; Chocolate and Raspberry Gemelli (inspired by oven-warmed chocolate brownie) drizzled with gorgeous raspberry sauce; Lemon Chive

www.seasidetimes.ca

children’s boutique Angel Hair you can toss with sautéed B.C. spot prawns and beurre-blanc – definitely worth the culinary effort. Another surprising selection is the Orange Szechuan Linguine that would marry beautifully with black bean chicken, fresh mandarin slices and stir-fried red bell pepper. If you like life a little (or a lot) on the spicy side, then give the Extreme Habanero Radiatore a whirl. I will honestly say that I have not had anything as adventurous as this pasta in my life. If you have a heat lover in your family, this is the gift for them! These pastas stay true to their claim: boasting some fantastic exclusive flavours and being truly one of a kind! Along with the pasta line, Snowdon House showcases some incredible gifts for any man on your list: great ideas like an array of BBQ spice rubs such as West Coast Chicken or Steak for your home BBQ Chef, or ready-to-mix Beer Bread. All you have to do is grease a loaf pan, mix the contents and add a bottle of beer (if they are willing to give one up) and voilà … perfect home-baked bread! There are carrot and citrus compotes made from local ingredients, dried soup blends like hearty Coconut Ginger Dahl or Garden Vegetable Orzo. Check out red pepper dipping sauces and a variety of teas, cake mixes and on and on. I could have spent hours in the shop being dazzled by all her offerings. The best part of Snowden House (apart from the selection)? The prices! If you looked at any specialty market in town you’d certainly have a hard time finding these products, and if you did you wouldn’t want to pay their prices. At Snowdon the prices make your pocketbook sing, and who doesn’t want that during the holidays?

Everything for the Holidays!

Plus Get 20% Back*

*Receive a $10 Scallywags Gift Card for each $50 you spend before tax. Valid December 1–24, 2011. Check in store for details

DOWNTOWN 624 Fort St 250 360 2570

BROADMEAD VILLAGE 777 Royal Oak Dr 250 360 2520

www.scallywags-island.ca

All of Laura's food products come with recipes attached, and information on the Papardelle's bags directs you to a website where many more recipes are available. Laura's shelves are jam-packed with a mouthwatering array of goodies and truly unique gift ideas. Each product, magnificently wrapped in her gorgeous homemade paper, is an ideal solution for host gifts, stocking stuffers, gift exchanges and the perfect find for that certain someone who has everything! Snowdon House is open every day from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. except Wednesdays, and can be found online at www.snowdonhouse.ca. So curl up with your festive rum and eggnog, light the fire and know that if you make a stop at Snowdon House, your holiday shopping will be complete. Questions? Email fabfoody@gmail.com. www.seasidetimes.ca

december 2011

Sidney Seaside Sculpture Walk

very year thousands of visitors and residents of Sidney are delighted by the awe-inspiring vistas along the town's seaside promenade. Sidney's accessible walk is enjoyed by young and old, families, people with pets, joggers, walkers, strollers, beach combers and bench sitters. It's a friendly place where people are comfortable enough to smile, say hello and stop to talk to one another.

I cared for Betty

This project is being launched to enrich Sidney's seaside experience and add to the community's vibrant cultural scene by adding sculpture along the pedestrian path. Initially the sculptures will be located close to the Town Centre at the foot of Beacon Avenue, but eventually the installations will extend the full two kilometres of the waterfront walkway.

"The artists have an opportunity to exhibit their work in a spectacular setting and increase their exposure to potential buyers." ~ Sidney Mayor Larry Cross Sidney downtown merchants, Mary Winspear Centre, Book Town, Shaw Ocean Discovery Centre, Saanich Peninsula Community Arts Centre, Sidney Museum, Thursday Night Market, Sidney's Peninsula Celebrations and now … Sidney Seaside Sculpture Walk. Another great reason to visit sunny Sidney-by-the-Sea. A Call to Artists is being issued inviting Artists to exhibit their sculpture for a two-year period. Sidney's Mayor Cross commented:

It ’ s our hospital. Your donation will help us renovate the Extended Care Unit. Our ECU is home to some very special people – just like Betty. We need your help so that we can provide modern facilities,

"This is a positive development for everyone. The artists have an opportunity to exhibit their work in a spectacular setting and increase their exposure to potential buyers.

oﬀer more comfort for residents and help

"The Town and its businesses will gain from the many visitors who come and return again and again to experience our spectacular West Coast seascape and our creative and vibrant little town."

our staﬀ to be more eﬀective.

Donate today at www.sphf.ca or call 250 652 7531

For further information about this initiative visit www.sculpturewalk.ca, contact Richard or Sue Paquette at 778-426-3466, email repaquette@shaw.ca or contact Mayor Larry Cross, Town of Sidney at 250-656-1139. SEASIDE TIMES

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december 2011

My life’s unfolding one bead at a time...

6666 West Saanich Rd, Brentwood Bay

Available at

(beside Butterfly Gardens)

Home and Garden

778-426-4436 • doyleandbond.ca

Pick Your Poison Three Great Holiday Season Staples on Sale Now!

Enter to win a 55” LCD TV at any Liquor Express location Details in store Friend us on Facebook – Liquor Express Follow us on Twitter – @liquorexpressbc

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Saanichton: 2134 Keating X Road 250-652-4400 Tillicum: 3170 Tillicum Road 250-384-0060 Yates: 759 Yates Street 250-384-4136, ext. 3 Good Spirits. Great Value. 9 am - 11 pm 7 days a week

Liquor STore

SEASIDE TIMES

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The Three "C's" to a Perfect Christmas by Linda M. Langwith Do you want a stress-free Christmas this year? Of course you do. Somehow we carry an image of the perfect Christmas in our minds, influenced no doubt by glossy magazine spreads. The tree is a glittering symbol of colour-coordinated perfection with neatly wrapped gifts spread under its canopy, the carpets are freshly shampooed, the furniture is polished and gleaming, a tray of elaborately decorated sugar cookies competes with platters of carefully constructed hors d’oeuvres and the family enjoys a game of Monopoly where no one fights over Park Place. So that’s the ideal, but what’s the reality, and are you sabotaging that very perfection you seek? Are you trying to do everything yourself? Never mind the impossible reproduction of perfection. Time to create a strategic plan for the 12 days before Christmas so that you can enjoy the actual 12 days of Christmas. Forget the way of the martyr and start by trashing your two favorite mantras: “If I don’t do it no one else will” and “If I want something done right I have to do it myself.” Put collaboration, cooperation and consensus into Christmas and you’ll all have more fun in the process. Embrace the path of the manager and delegate! Given half the chance, your family members are perfectly capable of doing a lot of that Christmas preparation stuff you’ve burdened yourself with over the years. Do you really want to be stringing up lights in the pouring rain all by yourself just before your guests arrive, choosing the last miserable little Christmas tree in the garden centre because you ran out of time, or wrapping presents at three in the morning? Even Santa needs a little help! Gather the family together and let them know that you’ll be doing things differently this year. Take a pad of sticky notes and invite everyone to come up with things that need to be done leading up to Christmas Day, like cooking, baking, decorating, wrapping and anything else that comes to mind. Forget about putting major cleaning on the list: leave the rug shampooing and all that serious stuff until January when you’ll be glad for a good workout. Avoid the temptation to assign tasks, because it will never work. Take a deep breath and let each person choose what they want to do. Of course, most things are more fun done together, so encourage teamwork. Unless you really want to fill all those stockings yourself, clone some Santas. This is a perfect task for the older ones in the household. It might be a good idea for the manager (that’s you) to check in regularly just in case a little help is needed, not to mention encouragement. Be sure to liberally sprinkle the compliments about, because everyone

knows we work better when our efforts are valued. When it comes to selecting a Christmas tree, this is the perfect excuse for a family outing and a great exercise in achieving consensus. You may have to bridge the gulf between those who like their tree a little rough around the edges and those who prefer the manicured variety, but after all, you’ve been managing this team for years so it shouldn’t be too hard. Decorating the tree is a cooperative effort as well, and the perfect excuse to have a party and sample some of those delicious cookies created by the family elves. So there you have it, the way to a perfect Christmas: Collaboration, Cooperation and Consensus. Merry Christmas Everyone! Linda is the author of “The Golden Crusader,” a mystery/action novel published by Twilight Times Books. Check out her website at www.lindalangwith.com.

Marmalade Tart Boutique

MT Fun, Flirty, Fabulous Fashion! Visit us in the Landmark Building #102-2506 Beacon Ave. (next to Salon J)

Mon - Sat 10-530 • Sundays & Holidays 1130-5 778-426-3356 • www.marmaladetart.com

www.seasidetimes.ca

december 2011

harbour city kitchens

2189 Keating X Rd 250-652-5200

Sidney Pier Spa • Seaside Times Jan 2012 • Size: 7.75” (w) x 4.925” (h) • Rough 2 • Nov 15/11 www.harbourcitykitchens.com f ine cabinetry & storage systems

Haven is proud to use L’ORÉAL - Inoa and Pureology

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To book your appointment Call 250-655-9797 • Open Monday – Saturday 9 am – 6 pm 22

SEASIDE TIMES

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smell the c o ffee

Going Cold Turkey by Steve Sheppard Well, we made it to another holiday season which, for many, can be a very stressful time with all the gifts to buy, meals to plan and, of course, family to entertain. After going to the Vancouver Coffee Show this past fall, my coffee consumption went up … way up. For the first time since I started drinking coffee 30 years ago, I found myself looking for another cup at times of the day when I normally wouldn’t. I was even seeking drive-thru’s for a fix! I knew then that I needed help, so I decide to go "cold turkey," as they say: get off coffee altogether. I have written about the effects that coffee has on people numerous times, but in all honesty I’ve never even tried to quit coffee, so I decided to stop being a hypocrite and go for it! Just to frame my true pain here: I LOVE COFFEE! There’s no other way to say it. It’s been my friend and warm companion … yes, I should get a life, but that’s not the point here! Before my increase in use, I typically drank six cups a day which, when I was doing straight americanos, was reasonable. A double shot of espresso (the basis of an americano) has only 80 mg of caffeine, compared with a 12-ounce drip coffee that has 200 mg. The trouble all started when I went down the path of drinking the ever-sodangerous "shot in the dark," also known as a "red eye." This espresso-laced drip coffee not only tastes great: the caffeine levels reflect the name. I went from 480 mg of total caffeine intake per day (80 mg times six cups) to 1,500 mg! It was like consuming eight to 10 cans of Red Bull a day: not good. The first week of going cold turkey was a little rough. I found myself substituting herbal teas and other warm drinks to distract me and fill the oral fixation that accompanies this social and chemically addictive substance. Damn this coffee: I had no idea it had such a hold on me. Aside from my energy levels being inconsistent, and not

socializing with friends as much as I normally do, the process of remaining caffeine-free went as well as I would have expected … except for the fact that I momentarily wanted to write a country song about the experience!? In the end I went "cold turkey" for almost three weeks, which for me was powerful because I proved to myself that I could do it. It’s now December and I’m ready for Christmas parties and coffee with friends over the holidays, and I reinforced two very important things: I LOVE COFFEE (in moderation), and cold turkey is for sandwiches between Christmas and New Year's.Merry Christmas and don’t buy friends stale coffee as a Christmas present: they won’t forgive you … Steve out.

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We now offer Facial Acupuncture!

Christmas Blend Now Available !

We treat the mind, body and soul #216 - 9764 Fifth St., Sidney (above Mark’s Work Wearhouse)

250-656-2067 www.healthwithin.ca

Saanichton: Mt. Newton X Road www.seasidetimes.ca

december 2011

Finlayson Bonet Architecture

Visit our Website www.bleuecoyote.com to find out our daily specials! Two-For-One Late Night Appies (after 8 pm Mon, Tues, Thurs) Friday Night Music Bingo! Meat Draw Saturdays 2-5 pm! Monday - Saturday 11 am - Midnight Sundays 10 am - 9 pm 7100 Wallace Drive, Brentwood Bay 250.652.3252 • www.bleuecoyote.com 24

SEASIDE TIMES

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#4 - 7855 East Saanich Rd, Saanichton Tel: 250.656.2224 • Fax: 250.656.2279

fo rbes & marshall

Festivus for the Rest of Us by Michael Forbes You have to admit: one of the funniest Seinfeld episodes this time of year was when George's dad created a new holiday called Festivus, which featured feats of strength and the joyful decorating of a stripper pole. The celebration is real: it was created by the dad of one of the show's writers back in 1966. It got me to thinking that Frank Costanza wasn’t alone in his passion to take the same old holiday and shake it up like a box of broken bulbs.

Saanich family heads out to Pearkes Rec Centre. They aren’t going there for the skating … no way … they only have one thing on their minds: to play in the snow that the Zamboni leaves behind. So, if you see a snowman behind the rec centre on Boxing Day this year, you can thank Amanda and her kids.

Traditions. Where did they come from anyway? They were spawned by people, just like you, out of a desire to celebrate the season in their own special way. When I was a kid, my mom had a ritual that saw us drag out an old battered case that held the earthly remains of an accordion that she used to “play” when she was a little girl. She would pump that sucker and glide her shortbread-covered fingers all over the keys, while occasionally hitting the right note. We would always get about three songs in, singing our hearts out to Silent Night, and the magic would abruptly end. Usually it was because I was bludgeoning my sister over the head with an Advent Calendar or my mum was screaming bloody murder cause she got her hair caught in the ol' squeezbox.

When it comes down to it, it doesn’t really matter what unique thing you do every year but who you do it with. These are the moments when memories are made and love is shared with the ones dearest to you. Merry Christmas! Forbes & Marshall are the hosts of Ocean 98.5’s popular morning show. They are one of the few married morning show teams in Canada and have two children, Noah and Adam. Join Forbes & Marshall weekday mornings from 5:30 to 10:30 a.m.

We thought we’d ask a few of you what rituals you perform every year that are uniquely yours, and you offered up some great ones. Bruce wakes up on the morning of the big day, gets his family and friends together and they make the trek out to Goldstream Park, where they break out the sticks and buns and have a Christmas Day weenie roast. Are you kidding me? That’s awesome! And you gotta love this next one: Meredith and her two sisters put on their most comfy jammies and big bunny slippers on Christmas Eve and walk half a block to the 7-11 on the corner. Armed with straws, they dig into their annual Christmas Slurpees! While an ice cream headache may not be on everyone's wish list, sometimes the little things mean the most. A good buddy of mine, Darin, looks forward to an allout, no-holds-barred Ping Pong tournament at his mom's house, complete with trophies and bragging rights until the next year. He’s still stinging after last year's loss when his brother pinged his pong. Finally, living on the left coast leaves a little to be desired in the snow department, so one www.seasidetimes.ca

december 2011

Blissful Holiday Dresses waiting for you at 2389 Beacon Sidney, B.C.

• Handmade • Machine Washable

• Functional

• Unique and Trendy Designs

Available at:

Papyrus Cards & Gifts 778.426.0479 www.missbliss.ca

#104 - 2537 Beacon Ave 250.656.1358 papyrus104@yahoo.com

24 Great Reasons to Shop in

he merchants of Sidney welcome you to come and enjoy this year’s holiday shopping experience. Find that something special for her, for him, for the children and for your home right here along the lovely streets of Sidney by the Sea. You’ll find that our diverse range of unique small businesses offer personalized services to take the best care of you – our valued customer. Warm wishes for a happy and healthy holiday season from the merchants and staff of the shops in Sidney. Sidney Pier Spa • Seaside Times Shop Sidney Ad Size: 2.6” (w) x 3.65” (h) • Rough 1 • Oct 17/11

Bring in this ad and receive 15% off next your purchase.*

You talked, we listened! 9808 Seaport Place

Eminence is back at Haven Spa & Salon. Come check out our exciting new Eminence facials. Don’t just shop for everyone else... shop for you!

mineralworld.ca

To book your appointment Call 250-655-9797

the new jewellery store at Mineral World *offer valid until December 31, 2011

Open Monday – Saturday 9 am – 6 pm

Affordable and Distinguished Gifts!

Bras Panties Cami’s

The Peninsula’s Source for Cards!

Warm, Cozy Nighties, Robes & PJ’s

cards & gifts You bring the moments, we’ll bring the words.

available at

2449B Beacon Avenue, Sidney, B.C. (across from Tanner’s Books) 250-656-4316

2424 Beacon Ave, Sidney 250.656.1002 www.sweettalkandlacelingerie.ca

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New Christmas Stock Arriving! Jewellery & Giftware

Please visit our Travel Section at Barbara’s

Diamonds • Gold

Sterling Silver • Earrings Bracelets • Pendants

Featuring Dunes Relaxed Fashion

Barbara’s Showroom #104-9840 5th St Sidney, BC V8L 2X4 Tel: 250-655-0372 Fax: 250-655-7752

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Shop Early for the Best Selection

2485 Beacon Ave Sidney, BC, Canada V8L 1X8 Tel: 250-655-7118 Fax: 250-655-4484 www.badenbadenboutiques.com

Barbara’s 2392 Beacon Ave Sidney, BC V8L 1X3 Tel: 250-655-0372

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8 am – 9 pm Daily!

Cruise Wear

Beacon & Fourth in Sidney

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M a p b y : J o h n W e b b e r p a c i f i c s a f e t y @ s h a w . c a

Stacks of new releases for the holiday season! Over 1,000 calendars!

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free public parking

Gift giving is in the bag …

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Crystal • Giftware

Jewel Cases

2432 Beacon Ave, Sidney 250.656.7141 www.christinelaurentjewellers.ca

Muffet & Louisa has aLL the Best gifts!

A Candy Store for the Spirit Discover Buddies … a great little toy store!

Dualit toasters a beautifully DesigneD icon for your home .

Handbuilt in the UK.

Late

dragon horse - unique

night shopping starts soon !

2494 Beacon Ave, Sidney 250.655.7171

2408 Beacon Avenue, Sidney

Details at: muffetandlouisa.com

Sidney, 2506 Beacon Ave. Victoria, 1437 Store St.

Sidney Store

cards & gifts -

250.656.3088 www.dragonhorse.com

Oak Bay Store

2533 Estevan Ave, Victoria 250.595.6501

www.buddiestoys.ca

24 Great Reasons to Shop in

Knickerbocker’s

for the season

Home Accents & Gifts

victoriA @ broAdmeAd villAGe

Warm for the Holidays

250-658-5578

sidney @ tHe pier Hotel & spA

250-656-5506

brentwood bAy @ trAfAlGAr squAre

250-544-8211

www.knickerbockers.ca

The Dancing Orchid

Wall Mount & Free Standing Towel Warmers Flush Bathroom Essentials #102-2537 Beacon Ave Sidney, BC

250.655.7732 www.FlushBath.ca

2416 Beacon Avenue 250.656.1318 thedancingorchid@yahoo.com

Are you sleeping naturally?

Visit Riverbank Design at Hearth eco home 2348 Beacon Ave, Sidney BC riverbankdesign.ca & replyhome.com 778.426.4270

250 654-0021

bed frames, latex mattresses and more...

2378 Beacon Ave, Sidney

103-2537 Beacon Avenue (in the Cannery building) Sidney 250.656.5606 info@waterlilyshoes.com

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M a p b y : J o h n W e b b e r p a c i f i c s a f e t y @ s h a w . c a

MT Fun, Flirty, Fabulous Fashion!

Quality, Ethically-Made Eco-Friendly Fashion and Accessories. Something Special and Unique for Everyone on your List!

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

Visit us in the Landmark Bldg #102-2506 Beacon Avenue (next to Salon J)

Mon - Sat 10-530 • Sundays & Holidays 1130-5 778-426-3356 • www.marmaladetart.com

2348 Beacon Ave, Sidney ✢ 778-426-3088

black I flavoured black I green I flavoured green I high antiox I decaf I rooibos I flavoured rooibos I oolong I organic I herbal

Georgie’s Tea Emporium & Café Unique Holiday Gift Ideas!

Tea Emporium

100+ Premium Loose Teas Tea Accessories, Chocolates, Gifts, Greeting Cards

Café

Country Baking Comfort Food Homemade Soups

Artisans Christmas Gift Gallery

The Community Art Centre in Tulista Park, Sidney is now in its fourth year and becoming recognized for the diverse range of shows it presents. During 2011 we have enjoyed "Small Expressions" Artisans Traditional and Contemporary Arts Show, along with exhibits by groups and individuals. Last spring Parkland students' work was showcased, and this fall, the outstanding show and exhibit by First Nations and Métis artists was attended by over 3,000 visitors. Now, at the Centre until Dec. 23rd, a variety of artists have joined together to display their work for the Christmas season in the Artisans Christmas Gift Gallery.

4649 West Saanich Road, Saanich, BC Café 250.479.6747 Tea Emporium 250.479.0497

Sculptor Nathan Scott’s piece, Small Boy, immediately captures your attention as you enter the show. This work could be the inspiration for a gift of garden art. Tobias Tomlison has entered urns and bowls that make a strong statement in pottery and, in delicate porcelain, are Ruby Simrose’s floral earrings. You will find favourite jewellers – silver by Doreen Schneider, glass by Christopher Windsor and beaded work by Georgia. Wood turners Phil Cottell and Barrie Baptie have interpreted beautifully-grained wood as bowls and other objects. Johanne Byskov offers baskets that she has woven, many of them using willow that she grows in her garden. Fabric arts are well represented. In the window of the Centre you will see hand-woven linen transparencies by Diane Thorp, perfect for dressing up a window that needs a little privacy or some decoration. Kathy Demchuk’s whimsical quilts, tea cozies and puppets all have an appealing owl theme. Peggy Farrie's quilted kitchen items are always popular and an easy gift to mail. This year she has also done evening bags in tapestry prints! Fabric artist Heather Corbitt has "art to wear" and wild silk scarves. Nan Beall-Fahlman has brought in lovely silk devore scarves too. Perhaps you are looking for an original painting, and the show is pleased to have work hanging by Pauline Martland, Sandy Bligh, Rose Davidson, Silvi Cottell and Keith Levang … all artists that have been represented in the Sidney Fine Art Show. Artisans Christmas Gift Gallery has much to offer: fine work by artists from our local community.

SEASIDE TIMES

www.seasidetimes.ca

december 2011

This Christmas ( AND NOT AT THE MALL ) FROM OUR FAMILY TO YOURS

MerryChristmas

d.g.bremner & co. MENSWEAR AND ACCESSORIES

REALLY GREAT GIFTS FOR HIM WITH A NO HASSLE RETURN POLICY . . . GUARANTEED

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Good Debt Versus Bad Debt: An Age-Old battle Look over your credit card statement and you may see something like the following:

as we know it is really a Jekyll and Hyde type of animal: it has a good side and a bad side. Getting to know the good side, heck even embracing the good side, might serve to leave you better off than you thought you were, allowing for a rosier outlook on those long winter nights ahead.

Time to Pay If you make only the Minimum Payment each month, we estimate it will take 23 year(s) and 11 month(s) to fully repay the outstanding balance. Our estimate is based on the New Balance shown on this statement and your current credit card account terms. Twenty-three years and 11 months!? Wow. Sadly, this may be a stark reality facing people in your life – perhaps family members, perhaps even yourself. A typical interest rate charged by the major credit card companies in Canada is approximately 19.99% and recent legislation has encouraged them to provide better disclosure when it comes to your credit card balance. The result: paragraphs like the one above. Most of us know that if you regularly pay off your balance in full then you needn’t worry about this high charge against your monthly credit card purchases. The key here: if you regularly pay your balance in full. It may be the case that this simply isn’t possible for some folks due to unforeseen events like a sudden job loss or medical emergency. It might be argued, though, that the vast majority of Canadians carrying a balance on their credit cards are doing so because they’ve overspent and are unable or unwilling to get themselves caught up. Now, I’m not your mother, and I’m not in the business of soapbox lectures about paying your bills on time, but as someone who has some experience with debt and its many different flavours, I’d like to take this opportunity to dialogue a bit about how I think debt ought to be managed by my fellow Canadians. We are influenced by our parents' behaviours – both the good and the bad. It’s true too, that our parents most likely were influenced by their parents and so on up the family tree – it has been ever thus. This is true in regards to debt and our attitudes toward it. Most are taught early on that debt is a nasty scourge to be avoided at all costs and any debt, however reluctantly incurred, should be paid off in full in as quick a manner as possible – a noble endeavour and one that ought to be pursued to be sure. Or ought it? The reality of the debt landscape in Canada is that debt 32

SEASIDE TIMES

We all know Bad Debt (aka Hyde): this is your credit card debt, your debt used for consumption. This is the debt to be avoided, and taking on debt of this nature is to be carefully considered in the context of the family budget. What most Canadians don’t really grasp is Good Debt (aka Jekyll): this is debt that the Government of Canada has deemed to be tax deductible. It is a fact that if you borrow money and invest that borrowed money in a business, an investment property, or the stock market among other things, the Government of Canada will reward you for participating in the economy in such a fashion by allowing you to deduct the interest expense of your borrowing. This is fancy banker-talk for the amount of money it costs to borrow the funds: the interest payments. The wealthy know this, and have been practising the art of borrowing to invest in this fashion for many a year – it’s likely what has helped make them wealthy.

How Does it Work? When I borrow money and invest that money with a reasonable expectation of making a profit, I can turn around and deduct the cost of the borrowing. For example: assume I’ve borrowed $10,000 and my interest rate is 10%. The cost to me to borrow this money if I only pay my interest is $1,000 per year. If I’ve borrowed this money to take a trip to Mexico, then I’ve used it to consume and I’ll have to continue to pay my $1,000 each year I don’t pay off the principle amount – the $10,000. I have also used this borrowed money to buy an asset which declines in value over time. This is Bad Debt. Now assume I’ve borrowed the same amount: $10,000, same interest rate of 10% and still have to pay my $1,000 every year except I’ve borrowed this money to invest. Then we see the power of good debt start to work its magic: because I’ve borrowed the money to invest, the Government of Canada is happy, because I’m contributing to the growth of the economy and the economic betterment of Canada as a country. This is Good Debt. My reward for this decision is to get a tax refund at the end of the year.

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In this example if my marginal tax rate is, say, 40% then I’m entitled to a refund of $400. I have purchased an item that will likely increase in value over time and the true cost of the borrowed money is only $600. Not bad for taking on some debt with an expectation of making a profit, no less.

fashion may serve to provide an additional income stream come tax time every year. The bonus in all of this is that this debt will continue to provide a tax refund each and every year that the investment and debt is held – forever.

So you see there are in essence two types of debt, both of which have very different temperaments: the bad debt, which is a debt to be avoided; and the good debt, a debt that if embraced responsibly in the proper

Chamber of Commerce

Convert your mortgage interest into tax deductions!

In most towns and cities around the world, you will be able to find a local Chamber of Commerce. This organization is where many of the businesses in the local trading area have built a hub to assist in representing the common interests of business in their local community.

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It's virtually certain that your company, Ret $24.9 large or small, will benefitailby being part 5 of this wonderful organization, so please take the time to visit the website (www. peninsulachamber.ca) to see what is on offer, then call the office at 250-656-3616 to arrange a chat. You'll be glad you did.

BEST SELLER N

TIBL E?

SMIT H MAN OEU VRE

About 500 of those 2,000 companies are members of the Chamber, and pay modest annual dues, scaled to reflect the size of the business, for the privilege of participating in the effort for our community. In return, they receive a long and comprehensive list of services for their own business. There are huge industrial and commercial 2952 interests who are members, but even more -0-1 are single-person, home-based businesses.

Thousands of Canadians have learned how to utilize The Smith Manoeuvre to convert their mortgage interest into tax deductions which they receive every year for the rest of their life. For instance, mortgage interest of $10,000 per year gets converted into a $10,000 tax deduction, and those deductions produce tax refund cheques, year after year, for you and your family.

IS YO UR M O R T GAG E TA X DE DUC

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If you’re interested in learning more about the power of the deductible debt and what borrowing to invest might be able to do for you, give LuAnn a call at 250-656-7077 or visit www.smithman.net. You’ll be glad you did.

Debt of this nature, deductible debt, isn’t for everyone but, having been around the block a time or two, I can tell you that it's a nice feeling to receive what I like to call my "bonus

Wow! What a Great Idea

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cheque" from the taxman every year and know that the reason I have received it is because I have accrued valuable assets. An even better feeling: knowing I get to find a way to spend it.

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This strategy was developed in 1984 by Fraser Smith with support from Vancity, and is now utilized by financial planners across Canada. If you would like to arrange a complimentary meeting to learn how The Smith Manoeuvre might improve the future for your family, please call LuAnn at 250-656-7077.

There are reviews that will interest you at our website www.smithman.net. et

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Book cover and ad designed by Art Department Design www.artdepartmentdesign.com

december 2011

Arctic Adventure for Parkland Student by Susan Simosko

sk Jamie Hargreaves what she most valued about her three weeks in the Arctic, and she’ll give you a milewide smile and say “everything – the science, the beauty and, of course, the people! It was all simply incredible.” The grade 11 Parkland student was one of nine selected from across Canada to spend two weeks on board the CCGS Amudsen, Canada’s state-ofthe-art research icebreaker, as part of the Schools on Board Field Program sponsored by the University of Manitoba. Jamie, along with the other students and two teachers, lived and worked with worldclass research scientists. “It was just amazing,” says Jamie. “There was so much to learn!" During her trip, Jamie assisted the researchers in collecting data related to contaminants, marine life, geology and a range of other topics, all to help us understand the impact of climate change. “You have no idea how much diversity in marine life there is in the Arctic,” says Jamie. “We brought up so many small organisms from the sea floor; sometimes the scientists didn’t even know exactly what they were. But they're all part of our food chain and we have so much to learn about them. Pretty cool, don’t you think?” While learning about Arctic research was the main focus of the trip, Jamie said the beauty of the Arctic was inspirational. “I’ve never seen sunrises and sunsets like those we got to witness,” she enthuses. “A really exciting part of the trip,” says Jamie quite wistfully, “was spotting a beluga whale. It

was so cool.” She was also excited to see several bowhead whales which are found only in the Arctic or sub-Arctic. “The bowhead is massive,” says Jamie. “It can have up to 45 centimetres of blubber to protect it from the icy water. It has a really big head with two blowholes so it can push up through the thick ice to breathe. Pretty amazing!” Anyone who doubts the impact of climate change should check in with Jamie. “Because of climate change, polar bears are now mating with grizzly bears,” Jamie reports. “All sorts of creatures are moving further north because of the milder temperatures and of course creatures from the north have to adapt to warmer temperatures on land and water in order to survive.” She adds: “The biggest impact of climate change may be on the people who live in the North: they used to be able to predict the weather a week in advance to plan their hunting trips, but now, well, they are lucky if they can predict the weather in an hour. It’s really sad because their whole way of life is being altered.” The trip included spending time in Kugluktuk and getting to know students from the local high school. Jamie says this was one of the best parts of the trip. “Meeting kids my own age and realizing how they thrive in an environment unimaginable to most of us was very special.” Other highlights for Jamie included experiencing the Amudsen breaking through an ice field, witnessing an area of peat and sulfur that scientists say has been burning for thousands of years, and taking a video during particularly rough seas. On top of all this, the truly best part was meeting all the people – the scientists, crew, other students from Schools on Board and the people from Kugluktuk. “But,” says Jamie, “I’ve got to add to that list all the incredible people here in Sidney, including my parents, friends, teachers and business supporters, who helped to make this trip possible for me.”

Jim Laing – 250-652-2923

Neil Laing – 250-656-2919

A family owned and operated community business with more than 40 years of service 34

SEASIDE TIMES

Specializing in: • Residential, Commercial, Strata & Condo Security • ABLOY high security locks & keys • Bell lock postal lock upgrade keys

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s kin deep

Major Food Components by Dave Gartley This is the final prerequisite before we start to pair wine and food. Hang in there! Acidity is characteristic of citrus fruits, vinegars and goat cheese. Strangely, acidic foods lower the perception of acid in wines and therefore complement each other … as long they balance in acid concentrations. Bitterness is found mainly in green vegetables such as broccoli and especially endive. Bitter foods pair poorly with bitter or astringent wines. The bitterness components combine and become overpowering. Saltiness is characteristic of cheeses, especially parmesan cheese. Salt accentuates the perception of sweetness, bitterness and alcohol while decreasing astringency. Salt creates “mouth feel” and can make thin wines taste fuller in body. Sweetness, typically desserts, brings out the fruit in wines but also turns dry wines thin and flabby. It increases bitterness and acidity. Sweet foods pair well with sweet wines, but the wine must always be sweeter than the food. Spiciness in foods demands sweet wines. Wines high in alcohol, dry and acidic or astringent will emphasise the spice in your foods. Sugar calms spicy foods; next time you eat Thai or Indian food and you feel like you will burst into flames … try a late harvest or ice wine.

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Award-Winning Level Ground Coffee & Delectable Cakes Etc. Treats Bring in this ad and get a free medium coffee with the purchase of a Cakes Etc. treat (after 5pm, until Dec 31st, 2011) at the corner of Wallace Dr. & East Saanich Road

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My next amazing article won’t be published until 2012. When you serve that turkey this Christmas, GO CRAZY! Serve a fruity, non-tannic pinot noir with the bird and ice wine with dessert. You will get bigger and better presents next year. I guarantee it! Cum eggnog, dum vivit vinum.

• Setting up your blog

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• Creating a presence on Facebook, Twitter, and other platforms

• Tracking results and

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www.seasidetimes.ca

december 2011

G o b y l b l le o L

From Our Home to Yours…

Season’s Greetings!

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You could be here for the Holidays Every day is a great day at Amica at Beechwood Village, yet when the holiday season is upon us there is a stronger feeling of warmth and friendship that only this season can bring. We invite you to consider making your move before the holidays, so you can settle in and enjoy the wonderful services, amenities and events. Make Amica your new home for the Holidays.

Amica at Beechwood Village A Wellness & Vitality™ Residence 2315 Mills Road Sidney, BC V8L 5W6 250.655.0849 • www.amica.ca 36

SEASIDE TIMES

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weatherwit

December Weather Forecast by Steve Sakiyama I’ve fallen and I don’t want to get up.

made by Wilson Bentley, an early pioneer in raindrop (and snowflake) research. He would catch raindrops on plates covered with a layer of flour – each would form a doughy blob which he would later carefully extract and measure. Unreliable sources tell me that he invented Timbits after accidently dropping the dough blobs in hot oil.

I teach meteorology at Royal Roads University, and at the beginning of the year the faculty are formally introduced to the incoming cohort of eager students. This is very important – contrary to my normal state of being I must be very dignified and smart – first impressions are lasting. I arrived harried and late to the introduction event, so I hurried to the long table where the distinguished faculty were seated – only to discover there were no extra seats. In a brilliant stroke of genius, I thought “I’ll go to the far end, sit down on the edge of the table and enjoy the view.” At the precise moment when I was called to introduce myself, I sat down on the table, only to find there was a shocking lack of structural support. The table acted like a perfect teeter-totter, with the far end tipping high into the air and my end (anatomically speaking) going down in free fall. With a clatter and flying papers, I managed to keep my feet – but with my limbs flailing like somebody learning the squatting parts of Russian folk dancing, it wasn’t pretty. The view of the floor wasn’t particularly pretty either.

So what will the raindrop situation be in December? Well, La Nina will be in full bloom through January so the table will tip to a greater chance of wetter than normal conditions – although temperature-wise, this is no strong bias to warmer or cooler. Contrary to some earlier dire forecasts of a very wet and cool winter, the current thinking is that La Nina’s influence on our winter weather will range from weak to moderate.

The class and faculty burst into laughter, and as I stood up and gathered myself I said: “I’m here to teach you.” We all blow it – sometimes spectacularly, but we are here to teach each other. Speaking of falling things with odd shapes, did you know that falling raindrops look nothing like teardrops? They are actually shaped like an inverted hamburger bun – the force of the air on the falling drop makes it spread widthwise. Raindrops can also be tiny or large, and a single rain event can have a wide variety of sizes. This discovery was

Of course, December's special day is Christmas, so my sentimental forecast for the night of the 25th is a starry sky, symbolic of the peace for all of us who are harried and late, and have fallen from too many tippy tables in life. Sit down, look up and enjoy the view. ~ Weatherwit. Questions or comments? Please email info@seasidetimes.ca. For a humorous Victoria weather forecast, visit www.weatherwit.wordpress.com.

Top Mortgage Advice Your mortgage is important… trust an expert who knows the local market and can connect you with the right lender. DBA: Invis – Chatterton Way *E&OE

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It’s worth a call to find out your current options.

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december 2011

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by Valerie Green Have you ever wondered what it would be like to sit down and talk with some interesting characters from Greater Victoria’s past? If so, wonder no more. In a series of upcoming “interviews,” imaginary conversations will be conducted with some well-known (and some lesser-known) men and women from Greater Victoria’s colourful history. Although these conversations are merely creative figments of my imagination, they are all based on fact. Did you know that the Saanich Peninsula once had its very own “Father Christmas?” Reverend Christmas was a well-known figure on the Peninsula when he served as pastor at St. Stephen’s Anglican Church from 1890 until 1901. Although often controversial, he was also well-loved in the community. Interviewer: Reverend Christmas, where were you originally from? Christmas: I was born in Jersey in the Channel Islands in 1854 and arrived on Vancouver Island in 1888, settling here in Central Saanich. I: When did you become the pastor at St. Stephen’s Anglican Church? C: Two years later in 1890.

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SEASIDE TIMES

stmas i r h C y & Merr Year w e N y p Hap

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from

The Staff

I: How large was your parish then? C: It was very large, stretching from Elk Lake to the north end of the Saanich Peninsula. It also encompassed two Houses of Worship – St. Stephen’s and Holy Trinity at Patricia Bay. I: That must have been a lot of work for one Minister? C: Yes, it certainly was, but we managed somehow. My wife and I lived in the rectory on Mount Newton Cross Road on five acres of land donated by the Thomson family, one of the original pioneering families in the area. I: Tell me something about your family. C: My wife and I had four children: Emily Grace, Richard, Wilfred and Muriel, born between 1881 and 1897. (He paused for a moment as though collecting his thoughts.) We had a family tragedy last year when our son Richard was killed during the May 24th long weekend festivities. I: I am so very sorry. Would you rather not discuss that? C: No, I can tell you the story. Richard was playing with a group of other young people who were imitating various animals. Richard had dressed up as a bear and was crawling along a log when he was mistaken for the real thing and was shot by a friend. I: How very tragic. C: Yes, for our family and for the family of his friend. It was the reason that we decided to leave the Peninsula last year. I: (I realized we should change this heart-breaking subject.) Can you tell me about your other pursuits while at St. Stephen's?

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C: Well, I was a keen fly-fisherman and a hunter, and I also bred poultry. Whenever I conducted these pursuits on the Sabbath I was criticized. I suppose I was at fault for doing so. I: But I know you are still thought of as a kind, generous man. Often you were seen trudging along the road late at night taking a sack of flour or some other food to a parishioner in need. C: (He smiled.) Just doing my Christian duty … nothing more. In those days, there was no railway between Saanich and Victoria so we often had to walk into Victoria (14 miles) and back for our supplies, or go by Simpson’s horse stage.

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I: Thank you for talking with me, sir. (After their son’s tragic death, the Christmas family moved to Duncan where Father Christmas later died. His name in the Parish of St. Stephen’s, however, was long remembered.) Valerie Green is an author and historian and can be reached at valgee@shaw.ca. Photo courtesy Saanich Pioneer Society Archives. www.seasidetimes.ca

Open 6:30am - 9pm Bar open till 11pm 4670 Elk Lake Dr, Victoria (next to the Howard Johnson Hotel)

250.658.8989 december 2011

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982415th Street, Sidney 250-656-3666 Sidney Pier (Haro’s) Seaside Times Ad Nov 2011 • Size: 7.75” (w) x 4.925” (h) • REV • Nov 09/11

Every Wednesday Evening is Pasta Night Beginning November 16th!

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SEASIDE TIMES

Includes Caesar or Organic Greens, choice of Pasta (menu changes weekly) and garlic toast. Italian wines for $25/bottle

Make your reservation now! Call 250.655.9700 www.sidneypier.com www.seasidetimes.ca

12 Days of Christmas at Sidney Merchants! To show our appreciation for your valued business, your local merchants are working together to bring the streets of Sidney to life this holiday season! Look for your "Passport to the North Pole" around town, collect 12 stamps on your passport by making 12 unique purchases at participating locations during the 12 days before Christmas (December 12th through December 23rd), then enter your completed passport in the ballot box at the Sidney Pier Hotel & Spa for a chance to win a $250 gift certificate to Haro's Restaurant! Participating locations will be staying open till 8 p.m. to help make shopping this season simpler! For more information and a list of participating businesses, please visit www.mypeninsula.ca.

Win a $1,500 Shopping Spree in Sidney! Make a purchase at one of these local retailers and enter to win* a $1,500 shopping spree at the fabulous shops of Sidney! Bubba Loo Children's Wear Gifts & Toys Buddies Toys Cameron Rose Canada Scooters Christine Laurent Fine Jewellery & Gifts d.g.bremner & co. Dig This Donatello's Dragon Horse Flush Bathroom Essentials Haven Spa

Hemp and Company In Touch Cards & Gifts Knickerbocker's Seaside Marmalade Tart Mineral World Muffet & Louisa Papyrus Cards & Gifts Riverbank Design Sweet Talk & Lace The Dancing Orchid Waterlily Shoes, Bags and Accessories

Look in the January issue of Seaside Times to find out if you're our

Wishing you health and happiness this holiday season! Sincerely,

The Merchants of Sidney

lucky winner!

Acrylic Nails by Julia

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The Latch may just be the best-kept secret on the Peninsula! How many restaurants cook their own bread, make their own pasta and create fresh sauce from scratch with veggies from their own garden? How many restaurant owners do all the cooking themselves, treating customers to a sumptuous,

regal dining experience? Answer: The Latch Inn & Restaurant is that rare place where you get all this royal treatment and much much more. The Latch is a genuine experience in the ecstasy of eating food that is so splendid and so pure, your senses will never recover. Built in 1925, the building was the private summer

Culinary Ecstasy! The Latch Inn & Restaurant by Doreen Marion Gee

The Latch

the latch inn & restaurant • sidney

Discover a British Columbia Heritage Home • Offering superb continental cuisine with an Italian flair

• The casually elegant, cosy dining rooms offer a perfect setting for a romantic dinner

• Open Tuesday through Sunday

for dinner (group lunches by request)

• Ask about our special packages

2328 Harbour Rd, Sidney

250.656.4015 info@latchinn.ca www.latchinn.ca

Zanzibar Wishing You and Your Family a Safe and Happy Holiday Season 202-9800 McDonald Pk Rd North Saanich 250.665.7353

www.rcgrillhouse.com

residence of Walter C. Nichol – Lieutenant-Governor of British Columbia from 1920 to 1926. Patrons now see the very same rich wood exteriors and interiors as visiting royalty and local mucky-mucks enjoyed in their lush garden parties back in the 1920s. On the outside structure, sunlight still dances on thick fir slabs – covered with the original bark – and mammoth tree trunks forming the porches and balconies. The musky library of this grand old manor is straight out 42

SEASIDE TIMES

Breakfast O Lunch O Dinner O Espresso O

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Dinner Reservations Recommended

1164 Stelly’s X Rd, Brentwood Bay 250.652.1228 • www.zanzibarcafe.ca

of a Fitzgerald novel, with ghosts in velvet smoking jackets hobnobbing and debating about world affairs. It was converted to a restaurant in 1970. Luigi Cisotto and his wife, Valeria Seichei, give me a warm Italian welcome with fragrant coffee and a homemade criossant. These two charming, personable people want to extend a huge "thank you" to all of their faithful local patrons of the past six years. Owners of www.seasidetimes.ca

“We want people to know that we are here,” remarks Luigi. The supreme quality of this dining experience definitely sets it apart from the same old, same old – especially when the owners roll up their sleeves and do all the daily dinner cooking. The only time the Cisottos hire extra cooks is when they have large parties. Their biggest selling point is the fact that everything is homemade: gelato, bread, pastries, desserts, sauces, pasta – just for starters. No powders or processed food lurk

New Year’s Eve 1st Seating 5-8pm $30 includes 3-Course Dinner & Live Music

December Features

A Taste of Italy Regional recipes for your dining pleasure:

Penne Ariabiatta, Tortellini Afumierat Penne Mediteranean Monday to Friday: Lunch: 11am - 4pm, $11. 95 Dinner: 4pm - close, $15. 95

www.spitfiregrill.ca 250-655-0122 • 9681 Willingdon Rd, Sidney

Seafood & Sushi Redefined. Visit the Seagrille to experience our fresh approach to seafood & sushi in Victoria’s

2nd Seating 8:30pm - late $65 includes 4-Course Dinner, Champagne at Midnight, Live Music, Free Shuttle (if necessary & local)

most spectacular seaside setting…Enjoy our Chef’s seasonally inspired menu with ingredients harvested from the sea and grown fresh on Vancouver Island. Watch our highly trained Japanese Sushi Chefs create a truly authentic “West Coast” sushi experience.

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250- 479- 6612

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here. Natural organic veggies from their garden melt in your mouth. Luigi says that their guests are treated like family, with friendly “a la minute” service – cooked fresh beside your table. For a restaurant of this stature, prices are amazingly low. With full hearty plates, Luigi promises that diners will leave “satisfied.” Spectacular oceanside views and elegant ambience turn The Latch Inn & Restaurant into a local treasure just waiting to be relished. “People always come back,” the couple proudly state. Small wonder. december 2011

Check out These Great Peninsula Restaurants!

the Latch since 2005, the couple brings a wealth of experience to the job. Luigi worked in his father’s restaurant in Italy and then for 21 years as a maître d’ on the Princess Cruise ships. Valeria cooked in Bucharest’s fine dining rooms and eventually became sous chef on the same cruise ship line. The couple offers continental dining with an Italian twist in daily dinners, private parties and weddings. For that romantic getaway, their Inn has six luxurious rooms.

Pacific Paint

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103-2537 Beacon Avenue (in the Cannery building) Sidney Pier Spa • Seaside Times Dec 2011 • Size: 7.75” (w) x 4.925” (h) • Final • Nov 18/11 Sidney 250.656.5606 info@waterlilyshoes.com

9805 Seaport Place, Sidney, British Columbia To book your appointment call 250-655-9797 Open Monday – Saturday 9 am – 6 pm

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e lf s r u o y te De co rali d a y Sea s o n! t his h o 44

SEASIDE TIMES

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Enhance Your Career Prospects With Social Media by Chris Burdge Today we’re talking about LinkedIn, the social media site of choice for professionals, with over 100 million registered members. Of the big three social networks: LinkedIn, Facebook and Twitter – LinkedIn is the oldest and the only business-oriented social network. LinkedIn (www.linkedin.com) has become critical to building a network and crafting a personal brand than can open doors to job opportunities at select employers. But having a LinkedIn profile isn't enough – leverage the following tips to get a leg up on the competition. Have you Googled Yourself Lately? If you have a completed LinkedIn profile, chances are it will appear in the top five search results. This allows you to control the first impression people get when searching for you online, an important aspect of any job search. Even if you’re not currently seeking employment, LinkedIn is the one social network you can continually use to boost your career prospects.

4. Your Public Profile and URL. Don’t forget to make your profile public – that’s how the world can find it. You can customize which portions of your profile are displayed to the public. You can also customize your URL to give you a link that’s easy to share and shows up well in searches. 5. Grow Your Network. The more connections you have, the more opportunities you open yourself up to. Connect with colleagues from current and previous employers, clients and people you’ve done business with and people you went to school with or have had some sort of business or academic affiliation, but be careful not to connect with people you don’t know. Stay top of mind with potential employers by being active with LinkedIn status updates. Keep the content relevant and always add value. Remember, LinkedIn is a tool. Your investment in understanding how to best use it will determine the value you get out of it. You can find more tips and advice on social media strategy on Chris’ blog at www.bwest.ca/blog.

FIRST NIGHT

Here are five tips to enhance your personal "brand" and find new prospects on LinkedIn: 1. Complete your profile. Your profile is how you get found on LinkedIn and the first thing prospective employers may read about you. The more detailed and up-to-date your profile is, the better the chance you will be found and contacted. Complete your profile as carefully as you would your resumé and provide detailed information on your skills, experience and accomplishments. Users with completed profiles are 40 times more likely to receive opportunities through LinkedIn! 2. Basic Information and Summary. Within the “basic information” section, be sure to select an industry, because recruiters often use that field when searching for candidates. Create a “headline” that properly brands you. The headline is the single most important piece of real estate on your profile and appears at the top of the page when someone views your profile and shows up in Google searches – it’s your first chance to make a good impression. 3. Website and Twitter Links. The “Links” section of your profile is a good way to provide even more information to potential employers and your contacts. If you have a blog, Twitter account or a website, include those links.

New Year’s Eve Family Celebration Join us at the 6th annual First Night New Year’s Eve celebration! Enjoy live music by a local band as well as numerous activities including swimming, skating, arts & crafts, inflatable obstacle course, bouncy castle and a giant movie screen playing holiday classics. We’ll end the night with a Fireworks Finale at 9pm!

Tickets Now On Sale By Dec 30th Adult Child/Student (6 - 18yrs) Child (0 - 5yrs)

$11 $7 Free

On Dec 31st Adult Child/Student (6 - 18yrs) Child (0 - 5yrs)

$15 $11 Free

www.panoramarecreation.ca 250.656.7271

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Purchase your tickets at Panorama Recreation or Tanner’s Books in Sidney. december 2011

For drop-in schedule info visit www.panoramarecreation.ca

(expires Dec. 31st, 2011)

Bring in this ad for one FREE drop-in admission

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Central Saanich Optometry Clinic

#1, 7865 Patterson Road, Saanichton, B.C. 250.544.2210 • www.cseyecare.com

Happy Holiday Wishes from Dr. Neumann, Dr. Leekha & Staff

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Season’s Greetings from the Staff of Island Blue!

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Season's Greetings!

Beacon Ave: 250.656.1233 • Fort Street: 250.385.9786

Saanichton: Mt. Newton X Road

Here's to another great year with great clients – Happy Holidays!

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Beautiful waterfront location on the Saanich Peninsula • Pet and child friendly Daily, weekly and monthly rates • Free long-term parking available Ask about our island resident rates and three-day specials

The Cedarwood Inn and Suites – Your Home away from Home 9522 Lochside Drive, Sidney, British Columbia 250-656-5551 • 877-656-5551 • www.thecedarwood.ca

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I'm Dreaming of an Ocean Friendly Christmas by Tina Kelly Wrapping paper is the largest component of waste produced at Christmas. Of course, Christmas might be a little less exciting if presents weren’t wrapped at all, but finding creative ways to avoid traditional wrappings this Christmas is one small step toward a healthier ocean. The following green, or “blue” tips will help lessen your environmental impact this holiday season. Alternatives to traditional wrapping paper come in many forms. Among them are reusable cloth or paper bags or wrapping with colourful comics, magazines, newspaper or old calendar pictures. Why not wrap a gift with a second gift – a new dish towel, beach towel or scarf. Adorn the tops of packages or bags with natural decorations: holly, pine boughs or herbs. Last year’s Christmas cards can be recycled into gift tags.

Think local when planning your holiday dinner. Order a free range turkey from a local market or straight from the farmer; buy local winter vegetables such as potatoes, carrots and beets and use crisp fall apples for your pies and stuffing. Support lower Vancouver Island and Gulf Islands wineries and cideries for celebrations. Ensure that you serve seafood labelled with the Oceanwise certification and book your holiday party or event where Oceanwise seafood is offered (www.oceanwise.ca). Show support for a friend or relative’s favourite organization, charity or species. Donate to an environmental organization, adopt a killer whale at www.killerwhale.org or buy them a membership or annual pass to a museum or gallery. Annual passes and memberships are available for the Shaw Ocean Discovery Centre.

Customize a fabric gift bag with a fish print at the Shaw Ocean Discovery Centre on December 4th and 11th from 1 to 4 p.m. Bring your own cloth bag and a $2 donation for fabric paint. December 19th and 20th from 1 to 4 p.m., create fish wrapping paper by reusing your brown paper grocery bags.

Add refuse to your “reduce, reuse and recycle.” We aren’t talking about refusing a second helping of turkey or one more butter tart – refuse the plastic shopping bag or the food or toy with excess packaging. Whatever you do, don’t refuse to believe that our choices make a difference.

Give the gift of an experience. Avoid factorymade dust collectors that have flown thousands of kilometres to reach store shelves by purchasing a certificate for a whale-watching trip, a massage, a cooking class, a theatre or symphony ticket, an art workshop, an eco-cruise with Sidney Eco-Cruising or simply a night at the movies.

The Oceaneers at the Shaw Ocean Discovery Centre wish you and your loved ones a safe, happy and ocean friendly holiday. Tina Kelly is an ocean advocate at the Shaw Ocean Discovery Centre.

The Denture Clinic

All I Want for Christmas is … • Improved Strength, Power & Balance • Improved Muscle Tone & Core Strength • Weight Loss

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Vibes Fitness offers a low impact, 15-minute workout for all fitness levels guided by a certified trainer

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Give the Gift of Fitness this Festive Season!

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SIDNEY 250-655-7009

2506 Beacon Ave., Sidney • 778.426.2146 • www.vibesfitness.ca

#3 - 2227 James White Blvd (behind Thrifty Foods)

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VICTORIA 250-383-7227

3937 Quadra Street (2 blocks south of McKenzie) december 2011

Dread Shopping for Holiday Gifts? Think About Doing Your Christmas Shopping At Your Local Hardware Store!

Orr’s Family Butchers

Established 1979

More Than Just Hardware: • gardening supplies • patio & BBQ gifts • sports accessories • tools • toys • culinary and kitchen supplies … and more

Delight everyone on your list!

Voted Best Butcher Shop, Best Sausages on Vancouver Island

Order your Christmas Turkey or Ham Now!

British Christmas Puddings, Cakes & Treats are now in Stores

www.orrsbutchers.com

Open Mon - Fri 9:30-5:30 Saturdays 9-4 Sidney Location Now Open in the Landmark Building! West Saanich & Wallace Quadra & McKenzie Trafalgar Square, Brentwood Bay 4011 Quadra St., Victoria

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There’s a Whole Lotta Shakin' Goin’ on in Sidney! by Arlene Antonik Family get-togethers, parties, shopping, baking, decorating – it’s a busy time of year all right. How are we supposed to keep up any kind of exercise routine while getting ready for the holidays? The answer is Vibes Fitness in Sidney. In 15 minutes, using one of their whole body vibration (WBV) WAVE Pro Elite exercise machines, you can achieve comparable benefits to a one-hour workout in the gym! Better yet, there’s no stiffness or soreness afterwards. Sorry, Santa’s Elves, but this workout is no excuse for not climbing the ladder to put up the Christmas lights! Surprisingly, we owe this technology to the Russian cosmonauts. The original vibration machines were developed by the Russians in the 1970s to maintain muscle and bone mass during space travel. The results were so positive that the training was extended to their elite athletes for the extra benefits of improved strength, balance, flexibility and increased blood circulation. Also important during this season of fruitcake and rumballs, the 3,000 gentle muscle contractions per minute produced by the machine’s vibrations help build lean muscle mass which in turn burns calories resulting in weight loss. For best results, three 15-minute sessions per week are recommended with improvement in wellness, fitness and vitality evident within four to six weeks. Daughter and mother co-owners, Meghan Raza and Dawn Robertson, opened the Vibes Fitness studio in Sidney last May. It’s tucked behind the Saltspring Lavender shop in the

Landmark Building on Beacon Avenue. The studio has three machines and Meghan or Dawn is always on site to offer one-on-one personal training and supervision. “I’ve always been a gym-goer,” Meghan noted, “but when the owner of Vibes Fitness in Victoria offered me a free trial at her studio, I was hooked. I saw improvements in my fitness level within six weeks and significant weight loss within a year. “Mom and I were keen to open a business together and saw a niche for this new way of exercising in Sidney. We’ve had great success in building up our clientele in the seven months since we opened. Sidney is a great fit for us.” Newcomers are given a complimentary one-week pass to try out the machines, talk over their fitness and health needs, and work up an individual fitness program. It’s best to book a session in advance by calling 778-426-2146 or by email at sidney@vibesfitness.ca. “Our clients range in age from their '20s to their '90s,” Meghan advised. “The program works well for the busy lunch-time crowd because there’s no need to change clothes: business wear is just fine – no spandex required!” WBV is recommended by Health Canada as a low-impact therapy to fight against osteoporosis and can be an excellent alternative for those with injuries who cannot undertake a gym workout. The vibrations cause involuntary muscle contractions which promote faster healing and recovery times. If you want to shake things up a bit with a new fitness routine, Vibes Fitness may be just the New Year’s Resolution for you!

RBC DOMINION SECURITIES

It’s not what you make, it’s what you keep Ask Deborah about low-risk, tax-efficient retirement income strategies to generate greater monthly income for your retirement lifestyle. Deborah Reid, FMA, FCSI | Investment Advisor 250-655-2884 | 1-888-773-4477 | deborah.reid@rbc.com | www.deborahreid.net Deborah reiD, FMA, FCSI RBC Dominion Securities Inc.* and Royal Bank of Canada are separate corporate entities which are affiliated. *Member-Canadian Investor Protection Fund. ®Registered trademark of Royal Bank of Canada. Used under licence. RBC Dominion Securities is a registered trademark of Royal Bank of Canada. Used under licence. ©Copyright 2011. All rights reserved.

Professional Wealth Management Since 1901

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december 2011

Christmas With Authors The holidays wouldn't be complete without the gift of several good books. The following novels, all with historical themes, can be found in local bookstores. William Deverell’s I’ll See You in My Dreams is about former Vancouver criminal lawyer Arthur Beauchamp, now a resident of Garibaldi Island. Arthur, while thumbing through his biography, comes across the details of his first murder trial. Gabriel Swift, an aboriginal activist and former handyman of professor Dermot Mulligan, was accused of killing him. In considering the 1962 case and the death of his mentor, Arthur realizes there are important unresolved issues and takes action. Victoria’s high society during the 19th and early 20th centuries is the subject of Valerie Green’s novel, Above Stairs. We meet the Crease, O’Reilly, Rithet, Trutch, Dunsmuir and Douglas families to name a few, families who experience a whirl of garden parties, picnics, balls, formal dinners and teas. In those days, there were outings on the Gorge waterway and horse races in Beacon Hill Park. Vast quantities of food accompanied these social gatherings, including such delicacies as reindeer milk, lemons from Europe and fresh tins of oysters, at prices only Victoria’s first families could afford. In Requiem, Frances Itani introduces readers to Bin Okuma, a Japanese Canadian artist who has lost his wife. On impluse, Bin decides to take a road trip across Canada. It’s an opportunity to complete some art pieces for exhibition which are overdue and perhaps revisit his family’s internment camp. Bin is estranged from his father living in Kamloops, who is asking for him, but based on an incident from his childhood, Bin is ambivelent about visiting. Itani presents flashbacks of Bin’s youth with his family on the west coast of Vancouver Island, in the internment camp, and his early married life as he drives across Canada.

by Sharon Hope

Into the Silence by Wade Davis describes the events leading to the 1924 Everest expedition by climbers George Mallory and Sandy Irvine, who both die on the mountain. In documenting how the climb was planned and executed, Davis introduces the role of WWI, English imperialism and the political situations in India and Tibet as providing impetus for the climb. He adds to the mix the importance of the British climbing clubs and British public schools and universities in selecting the men for the expedition. Davis provides meticulous detail on every stage of the reconnaissance climbs that led to the final 1924 expedition. An American western with a twist, The Sisters Brothers by Patrick deWitt is set in California’s gold rush era. The novel follows brothers Charlie and Eli, hired assassins, as they pursue their intended target, Hermann Kermit Warm. Charlie, the elder and more ruthless of the two, is the designated lead man, a fact that rankles Eli. Eli is growing tired of their life and begins to consider other vocations. When the brothers finally encounter Warm, there is an unexpected turn of events. The novel is a combination of brutality, light-hearted bickering and sensitive insights into Eli’s character. The lighter, quirky moments, the slightly formal expression of the period, and characterization remind one of Lonesome Dove. In Wonderstruck, his extraordinary children’s novel, Brian Selznick uses a mix of text and images. There are two parallel stories and two time periods. One narrative is told exclusively with illustrations and the other in words. The prose story, which is set in the 1970s, features a deaf 12-year-old, Ben Wilson, who becomes orphaned. He runs away to New York to pursue a clue he finds in his mother’s affects which he hopes will lead him to his father. He arrives at the Museum of Natural History. In the illustrative story which begins in 1927, Rose Kincaid, who is also deaf and a collector like Ben, runs away to New York to find her favourite actress. These narratives are juxtaposed until they converge in a happy ending.

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s k r o w b e W b m o c y e n Ho web design The Peninsula’s Best-Kept Secret! You talk, we listen.

The Perfect Gift For Everyone on Your List: Fresh Handmade Christmas Wreaths Journals • Handmade Cards • Stationery Products Preserves • Soups • Gourmet & Gluten-Free Pasta Homemade Vinegar • Christmas Ornaments • Bath Treats … and so much more!

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BeACOn lAnding reStAurAnt & lOunge

~ Savour the Season ~

Sidney’s favourite seaside restaurant unveils a new winter menu. We serve fresh, local, organic produce whenever possible and our quality beef and chicken is proudly Canadian. Our seafood choices are fresh, in season and made with sustainability in mind. The kitchen is open until 10:30 p.m. nightly. Book your Christmas parties soon. Our private fireside room seats up to 18 and groups up to 40 are welcome in our restaurant. We have custom thre e-course menus available so please email us for details. We now offer a Sunday Breakfast Buffet – join us from 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. (except Christmas Day)

Christmas Day Dinner – Seatings at 4 and 6 p.m. Open on Boxing Day – Regular hours New Year’s Eve – The guitar of Mike LeFebre and vocal jazz of Edie DaPonte 7-9 p.m.

Open 11 a.m. to 11 p.m. daily 250.656.6690 • beaconlanding@shaw.ca 2537 Beacon Ave, Sidney (in the Cannery Building) • www.beaconlanding.ca 54

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Look at us now.

Why Would You Do THAT? Every year thousands of North Americans flock to the beach on New Year’s Day to dive into freezing water … polar bear style. Some call it the plunge, others a dip and some even go so far as to call it a swim. I, however, call it madness! When I think of the beach and the ocean, my mind immediately conjures up the feeling of sun on my skin, the smell of suntan lotion and I can almost taste the margarita. I don’t want my trip to the beach to involve chattering teeth, goose bumps and hot chocolate! But, in almost every major city in Canada, there is an annual Polar Pear Swim and most have been occurring for many years. Vancouver’s Polar Bear Swim Club will be celebrating its 92nd swim in 2012! And it’s not just a few brave souls who venture forth … Vancouver can see over 1,000 people take the plunge! But why? Some believe these freezing dips are good for the system, and that the cold water induces a type of shock that kills the harmful bacteria in the body and leaves the beneficial, and hardy, bacteria alive. They believe there's no need for a flu shot. One dip on the first and you’ll be healthy for the rest of the year. Others feel winter swimming reduces the effects of aging … but I highly doubt we've found the fountain of youth in the Pacific Ocean. There are those who say it's all worth it for the feeling of euphoria one feels once acclimated to the water: like a perfect warm-cold balance. I would venture to guess that it takes several minutes of gasping and yelling obscenities before that bliss is reached.

Stay in touch while on the go with the Times Colonist. Your go-to destination for news, sports, business and more is virtually everywhere you are, 24/7- available on any Android smartphone.

In the end, I think it’s about fun. Doing something a little crazy brings delight to your life, especially when you're doing it with others who feel that jumping out of their comfort zone and into the icy cold waters of the ocean is just what they need to kick-start a new year. In every photo you see of a polar bear swim, literally everyone is laughing. So in that case, maybe it does achieve all of the above. Having fun keeps us healthy, keeps us young and gives us a feeling of euphoria. I think I just talked myself into doing it … see you all on January 1st, 2012! The 2012 PCS Polar Bear Swim begins at 11:30 a.m. on January 1st at Lochside Drive just past Tulista Park.

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by Lisa Makar, vice-president, Peninsula Celebrations Society. www.seasidetimes.ca

december 2011

Should you incorporate? When starting a business, most people have three major objectives: limiting their personal liability, advantageous tax planning and control over decisions. There are a number of business structures available but unfortunately no form of business organization achieves all three main objectives. Sole proprietorship, partnership, limited partnership, limited liability partnership and corporations are the most commonly known vehicles of business organization. Each has its own specific advantages and disadvantages and more than one vehicle may be suitable in any given situation. A popular option for business owners is a corporation. A corporation is a separate legal entity which has the right to enter into contracts, hold property in its name and sue or be sued. Some of the advantages of using a corporation are: its potential immortality, limited liability of shareholders, ease of transfer of shares, separate legal entity status apart from its shareholders and possible tax advantages.

www.henleywalden.com

Dominique Alford of established Sidney law firm Henley & Walden has extensive experience in Corporate and Commercial law matters. If you have any questions with respect to your business structure, proposed or current, Dominique would be pleased to meet with you at your convenience to discuss your individual situation.

TEL: (250) 656-7231

201-2377 BEVAN AVE. SIDNEY, B.C. V8L 4M9

HW_Mar_seaside_PRINTER FILE.indd 1

16/03/11 7:24 PM

Thank you for your continued business.Wishing you safe and happy travels in 2012 from everyone at Mt. Doug CruiseShipCenters. 4089A Shelbourne Street, Victoria, B.C. 250.477.4877 mtdoug@cruiseshipcenters.com 56

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grey matters

Late For Work

verheard in a Sidney coffee shop: “He hated being retired. Bored him stiff. Went back to his job. Had to take a pay cut, 10 bucks an hour. He doesn't care, he's happy now and out from under my feet.”

On the other hand, 65-year-old Wayne McNab says: “I'd love to retire, but I haven't found anybody to pay me to do it.” He's only half joking. Without a pension, he needs the money, yet adheres to a personal timetable that's fun. His working life is designed around sailing with his yoga teacher wife, Lee. At 59, she works at a part-time job and is a few years from retirement. The couple has two adult children and a young grandson. Without the opportunity to go to university after graduating high school in 1963, McNab went straight into the engineering department at WV Electronics Laboratories. There he learned every job from floor sweeper to running the entire business. He delights in calling himself an "empirical engineer." "Way too much emphasis is put on academics; our experience is secondary," he says. "We're a culture of theorists. Without theory we aren't accepted." He sounds more resigned than bitter: "It doesn't matter how much experience you have: if you can't back it up with an academic credential, it doesn't count. So it's often the one with the degree who is given all the credit." Asking him about age and retirement launches McNab into a speech. He calls age a post-mainstream culture – no longer contributing to the economy. Yet most retirees still have much to offer: after all, it's older people who've created what we have now, so why aren't we being asked to pass on our knowledge? Bring age into the Circle of Life, in the sense that elders in most tribal cultures are revered and respected for what they know. They maintain a sense of purpose, a sense of place, a

by Trysh Ashby-Rolls

sense of connection – all the things our mythology no longer honours. We have this idea that once retired, that's it. Put us in a nursing home; wait for us to die. Come on – barring unforeseen circumstances – who wants to be an old person waiting to die? We 65s and over with our grey hair and story lines may appear to young fire-eaters coming out of tech school and university to be going down the tube. Sure, they have the latest in gadgetry and learning. Older people have a global perspective, a continuity of experience that spans decades. We see how young people's learning and skills fit the bigger picture. For their part, youth has an exuberance from which age has much to learn. Connection with youth influences the older person who, in turn, is revitalized to connect with and influ-

ence youth. Watch grandparents at play with their smallest family members – undeniably, it's a symbiotic relationship. Wayne McNab has never thought of age as a deterrent. The electronics firm he worked for left him without a pension, but he refused to stay on the few extra years for that kind of carrot. He wanted freedom. Now, working fulltime at a beer and wine store, he’s got time and energy to do what he wants. When he wakes up in the morning, he's excited about the day ahead and what he's going to do with it. He likes to grease his mind with fresh ideas. “I even get caught drinking coffee sometimes,” he jokes. Turning serious again, he adds: “It's ingrained in so many people to think of retirement as the destination, rather than as the retirement journey.”

How to feel young again: Tip No 71 – pass the popcorn. Get a (SOCIAL) life — experts agree that being social and active has many physical and emotional health benefits. Get your dose here.

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www.seasidetimes.ca PREPARED FOR: PENINSULA NORGARDEN PUBLICATION: SEASIDE TIMES INSERTION DATE: TFN_”PASS THE POPCORN”

december 2011

th Annual

S aanichton Event Proceeds to :

Saturday, December 10th SO CIETY

A NINSUL

LEBRATIO

Presenting Sponsors :

Christmas Tree Trail ! 10 - 2

Pick up your Christmas Tree Trail map at Fresh Cup Roastery Café or St. Mary’s Church from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Visit each of the local businesses along the trail, collect a stamp at each location. Vote for your favourite tree & enter to win one

Free Photos With Santa ! 11 - 1

of many draw prizes worth over $1,000 !

104 - 1931 Mt. Newton X Rd.

c ommunity c hriStmaS A Peninsula Family Tradition

Live Music by Fine Spirits

11-1:30

9:30 a.m. - 2 p.m. Pancake Breakfast !

Community Partners : 9:30 -11 LOCATION :

St. Mary’s Church (corner of East Saanich and Cultra).

Horse-Drawn Carriage Rides ! 10:30 - 1:30

Two cozy Christmas carriages will make their way around the Saanichton Village, picking up and dropping off people along the Christmas Tree Trail.

• • • • • • • • • • • • • • •

Anchor Insurance Coast Capital Savings Escape Solutions Fresh Cup Café Gartley Station Fermentations Island Family Chiropractic Pedersen’s Party Rentals Peninsula Family Chiropractic Prairie Inn Pub Saanich Pioneer Society Spelt’s St. Mary’s Anglican Church Thrifty Foods Victoria Costumes Western One Rentals

Over $1,000 in Prizes !

What’s Happening – December 2011 Until Dec. 23

Artisans Christmas Gift Gallery Community Art Centre at Tulista Park 9565 Fifth Street, Sidney 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. Wednesday - Sunday 250-656-7400, www.cacsp.com Showcasing the creative work by area artists: painting, sculpture, pottery, woodwork, glass, weaving, quilting, metal work, folk art and more. Presented by the Community Arts Council of the Saanich Peninsula. Free admission.

December 4

Peninsula Singers Present "Christmas Wishes" Mary Winspear Centre, Sidney, 2 p.m. 250-656-0275, www.peninsulasingers.ca Your wish is our command: a wonderful, unforgettable Christmas concert! Tickets: adults $22, children $11.

December 4, 10

December 8

Peninsula Newcomers Club Annual Christmas Luncheon

Festive "Winter Wonder" Crafts (Drop-in Event – all ages)

Brentwood Bay Resort & Spa 849 Verdier Ave, Brentwood Bay, 11:30 a.m. www.peninsulanewcomers.ca

Elk/Beaver Lake Regional Park (Saanich), 12-3 p.m. 250-478-3344, www.crd.bc.ca/parks

The Peninsula Newcomers Club welcomes women who are new to the area, providing them with many opportunities to meet new friends and participate in fun and interesting activities. You must be a member to attend; for more information on joining this fun club, visit the website listed above.

Drop by with family and friends to make fun and festive seasonal crafts and enjoy some hot spiced apple cider. Meet at the nature centre at the main Beaver Lake parking lot.

December 10

7th Annual Saanichton Community Christmas Fresh Cup Roastery Café, 1931 Mt. Newton X Rd. Saanichton, 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. info@freshcup.ca

"On the 10th Year of Christmas" Soundings Vocal Ensemble Winter Concert

Sidney Lions Food Bank fundraiser featuring a Christmas Tree Trail, horse and carriage rides, pancake breakfast, coffee, baked goods, hot cider, cocoa and live music.

Dec. 4 – St. Mary's Anglican Church, Saanichton, 2:30 p.m. Dec. 10 – Oak Bay United Church, Oak Bay, 8 p.m. 250-544-4393, www.soundingsmusic.com

December 10-11

This year the 26-voice Soundings Vocal Ensemble celebrates 10 years of seasonal music-making with a concert of favourites from past years as well as music new to our audience, featuring songs both familiar and unfamiliar, from Medieval England and France to contemporary Europe and North America. As always, you can expect some surprises! All tickets $15, available at: Dig This, 777 Royal Oak Dr; Ivy's Books, 2188 Oak Bay Ave; James Bay Coffee and Books, 143 Menzies St; Larsen Music, 1833 Cook St; Long & McQuade Music, 756 Hillside Ave and at the door.

December 5

Companions of the Quaich International Whisky Dinner & Tasting Sidney Pier Hotel & Spa, 7 p.m. 250-658-1109, wuhrer@shaw.ca In the last 200 years distilleries were started up, mothballed, closed and re-opened again later. This event will feature three whiskies of ”Lost Distilleries” and a great Malt Impostor. Lawrence Graham, of Victoria Whisky Festival fame, will introduce the whiskies. An excellent three-course dinner and four whisky tastings: members $60, guests $70, dinner only (designated drivers) $50.

December 11

"A Christmas Inspired" Christmas Show & Sale

Muse Winery, 11195 Chalet Road, North Saanich, 11 a.m. - 5 p.m. 250-656-2552 www.musewinery.ca This annual exhibition and sale features seven talented B.C. artists and strives to bring you an eclectic mix of mediums to tempt your eyes and bring you something for the special person on your holiday shopping list. Top it off with awardwinning wines for your holiday entertaining and you've got the best of the season in one location! Artists are in attendance for the show.

December 10-11

Last Chance Christmas Craft Fair Mary Winspear Centre, Sidney Dec. 10 - 10-5, Dec. 11 - 10-4 250-656-0275 www.marywinspear.ca Presented by Tidewater Inspirations, the “Last Chance” Christmas Craft Fair hosts over 85 artisans and crafters displaying their unique handcrafted wares. Admission $3 for a weekend pass.

December 11 Santa Swim

Panorama Recreation Pool, North Saanich, 1-3 p.m. www.panoramarecreation.ca Santa is making a splash this year! Bring the whole family for an action-packed swim and a special appearence by Scuba Santa. Normal drop-in rates apply – $13 family, $6.50 adult, $4.75 student, $3.50 child.

December 12 Victoria Storytellers Guild Evening

1831 Fern Street, Victoria (park on Begbie) Doors open 7:15 p.m., stories begin 7:30 p.m. 250-477-7044, www.victoriastorytellers.org The Victoria Storytellers Guild welcomes you to hear and tell stories. Admission $5 adults, $3 students (includes tea and goodies).

December 17-18

Via Choralis Messiah Concert St. Elizabeth's Church, 10030 3rd St, Sidney Dec. 17 @ 7 p.m., Dec. 18 @ 2 p.m. www.viachoralis.ca Via Choralis Chamber Choir will be presenting Handel's Messiah, with orchestra and four special guest soloists. Tickets are $22 and $10 and can be purchased at Tanner's books and at the door.

December 29

Trail Tales (Guided Walk – all ages) Coles Bay Regional Park (North Saanich), 10-11:30 a.m. 250-478-3344, crdparks@crd.bc.ca www.crd.bc.ca/parks Winter is the time for stories. Find out how Raven tricked the Crow, where our Island chickadees came from and much more with a CRD Regional Parks’ naturalist on this storyteller’s walk through the woods. Meet at the information kiosk in the parking lot off Inverness Road, off Ardmore Dr.

"Soundings" Brings Harmony to Saanichton! by Arlene Antonik

seasonal favourites and added some medieval English and French Christmas songs to the mix. All are sung unaccompanied, the better to hear the delicious harmonies.

Just in time for the holiday season, Soundings Vocal Ensemble brings harmony to Saanichton with the sweet sounds of voices singing familiar and some not-so-familiar music in their “On the 10th Year of Christmas” concerts. Denis Donnelly began the ensemble 10 years ago when some of the singers in the Gettin’ Higher Choir, which he co-directs, wanted to form a smaller performance group that could explore a more diverse repertoire. The ensemble now features 26 auditioned singers drawn from all over the region.

The concerts are being held at St. Mary’s Anglican Church on East Saanich Road on December 4th at 2:30 p.m., and at Oak Bay United Church on December 10th at 8 p.m. Check www.soundingsmusic.com for ticket information or the “What’s Happening” page at left. The CD will be available for sale at the concerts and at Larsen Music. Let Soundings bring harmony and joy to your world this Christmas time!

"Several of our singers live in Central Saanich so we feel a close relationship with the Peninsula," Denis said recently. "I spent many of my growing up years in Sidney and now live in Brentwood Bay, so it’s like a home-coming to have our concerts here each fall and spring." The ensemble is in good hands with their director: an accomplished musician and performer specializing on Irish Harp. Denis has already been presented with the Herbert Drost Award by the B.C. Choral Federation for lifetime achievement in choral music! “We have a lot of fun at our rehearsals and we bring that to our concerts,” Denis added. Many of the songs featured in the upcoming concerts are included on Soundings’ just-released first CD titled Song for a Winter’s Night which some will remember as a Gordon Lightfoot song. Denis has re-arranged it along with other

Traditional and Contemporary Arts And Crafts COMMUNITY ARTS COUNCIL

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Exceedingly Evil

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Presented by the Peninsula Players, Robin Hood is a traditional pantomime designed to be enjoyed by all the family. This will be a fun-filled show for everyone!

9565 FIFTH AT WEILER AVE. SIDNEY, BC

11-4 Wednesday to Sunday From Oct 29 until Dec 23 250-656-7400 We gratefully acknowledge the financial assistance of the Town of Sidney, the District of North Saanich, the Municipality of Central Saanich

Robin Hood Pantomime

Tickets $18 adults, $15 senior/student

ART CENTRE at TULISTA PARK

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Middle of the Road

Sudoku Solutions

Dec. 21st - 23rd @ 7:30 pm Dec. 27th - 29th @ 2 pm

Artisans Christmas Gift Gallery

Vancouver Welsh Men’s Choir Dec. 18th @ 2 p.m. A 100-man ensemble offering an entertaining repertoire of traditional Welsh hymns, spirituals, opera choruses, show tunes and much more, the choir tours extensively throughout British Columbia and internationally.

$30 adults • $26 seniors/students • $10 children

250-656-0275 • www.marywinspea r.ca SEASIDE TIMES

www.seasidetimes.ca

december 2011

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The Alzheimer’s Association recommends doing puzzles like Sudoku to strengthen brain cells and the connections between them. Each Sudoku has a unique solution that can be reached logically without guessing. Enter digits from 1 to 9 into the blank spaces. Every row must contain one of each digit. So must every column, as must every 3x3 square. * Sudoku Solutions can be found on page 61

Zais Astrology – December 2011 by Heather Zais (heather_zais@telus.net) Aries (march 21 - april 19) Gracious compromise improves relations on more than one level. Emotional matters reach a turning point where they can be cleared up or moved past. Do what is necessary to get others onside. All involved will benefit in the end.

Libra (september 23 - october 22) You like to feel grounded and secure on your path. Your sign rules balance and this is important to you. Step away from people or situations that interfere with this. Don't carry the load by yourself. Make positive connections.

Taurus (april 20 - may 20) Feelings deepen and will influence the direction you want your life to take. Closure of certain matters allows you to move forward. Joint financial ties or investments are up for review or finalization. Take care of the paperwork.

Scorpio (october 23 - november 21) Plan to attend important gatherings or functions. This will enhance your own position or status in relation to others. Your ideas or presentation are valued. You are seen as someone others can depend on when needed.

Gemini (may 21 - june 20) Relationships are in focus – personal or business. Make decisions about the future – together or apart. One way or another it needs to be settled. Location is part of the issue. Calm communications get results on both sides.

Sagittarius (november 22 - december 21) You enjoy centre stage as your confidence rises. A focus on finances will show where improvements can be made. Your ability to innovate works wonders on the bottom line. Personal or business connections help.

Cancer (june 21 - july 22) Passionate feelings become power struggles. Don't hang onto a person or negative situation. Use that energy to advance your position or goals. You can have a lot more out of life as you have a larger destiny. Include travel.

Capricorn (december 22 - january 19) Work around limitations and time constraints. Stay focused on your path and you gain more than expected. Others are drawn to your "businesslike" manner, as it makes things seem more stable. Time alone is worthwhile.

Leo (july 23 - august 22) Romantic attachments occur in your day-today activities. Work or social venues are equally worthwhile sources. Just be your lovable, entertaining self to attract someone special or enhance an ongoing relationship. Keep calm.

Aquarius (january 20 - february 18) Inner feelings intensify and you arrive at a relationship decision. Associates will have some influence on your choice. Consider how this affects status or position. It will be important to your long-term direction or ambitions.

Virgo (august 23 - september 22) You reach a transition point. Separate the past from the future and you will feel more comfortable with your situation. Take a closer look at home or property matters for you or others. Plan moves if they become necessary.

Pisces (february 19 - march 20) You get credit that you deserve. This brings you more popularity as well. You mix business with pleasure successfully. Others want to work with you as they watch how you advance so easily. You are the winner you seem to be.

last w o rd Well, a December issue filled with wonderful stories has left me with little room to say what I want to in this month's Last Word, namely: Season's Greetings and Happy New Year to all our wonderful clients, contributors, readers, family and friends. I count myself lucky: for the last three years I have been given the gift of being editor-in-chief of Seaside Times, a magazine that has undergone many changes to make it the publication you see today. Myself, Sue, writers and photographers work very hard to give you a great issue every month: it's challenging, enlightening and sometimes downright crazy, and I love it. Thank you for giving me the best Christmas gift, year after year, that I could ever ask for. Happy Holidays and see you in 2012!

Allison Smith,

Beacon Cat Hospital Dr. Ellen Guttormson

The only strictly feline hospital serving the Saanich Peninsula

Wishing All Our Kitties & Their Families a Very Merry Christmas & Best Wishes For a Happy New Year 9711 A - 5th Street, Sidney, BC 250-656-5568

www.beaconcatvet.infovet.ca

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december 2011

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