Seaside Times December 2012 Issue

SEASIDE times YOUR WEST COAST CULTURE • DECEMBER 2012

Santa Comes Home …

The most precious gifts this season are not on any list . . .

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Seaside Times

contents

west coast culture – december 2012 issue features

10 the Eagle" Flies Again!

40 "Eddie Canada geese control Journey of the Blue Whale: A Love Story

14

in Nanoose Bay

Peninsula Family Tradition 51 ASaanichton Community Christmas

Flip This Issue for Another Edition of Seaside Homes!

Columns First Word............................................ 8 Smell the Coffee............................. 20 Forbes & Marshall........................... 25 Island Dish........................................ 34 Weatherwit...................................... 47 Last Word......................................... 53

artwork by Sheena Lott

Seaside Homes – flip over!

departments

9................................................. Letters 9 (Homes)....... West Coast Gardener 10 (Homes)......................... On Design 13.....................................Grey Matters 14................................... Can We Talk?

19............................... Common Cents 32.................................. Trendspotting 38........ Young Readers Book Review 44.........Conversations From the Past 49.............................. Veterinary Voice 50..........................What's Happening 52.................................. Entertainment

www.seasidetimes.ca

On the Cover:

10

"Island Santa," Illustrator: Sheena Lott Author: Sheryl McFarlane Publisher: Children's Health Foundation of Vancouver Island (Can We Talk, p. 14)

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seaside

contributors

"Conversations From the Past" monthly columnist Valerie Green I continue to enjoy writing for Seaside Times each month as I step back in time and talk with people who lived long ago. December’s Conversation looks at the simple pleasures of long-ago Christmases. My passion for history has led me on many literary journeys plus the publication of 17 books since moving to Victoria in 1968.

More recently, I have explored social issues and unsolved mysteries. My latest book Vanished – The Michael Dunahee Story is now in bookstores. If you have a favourite character from the past you would like me to "talk" with, please email valgee@shaw.ca.

Contributing writers Tracey Jones & Stacey Kaminski Tracey Jones (ReMarkable ReDesign & Home Staging) and Stacey Kaminski (Styles by Stacey) joined together in 2008 to take on the Peninsula – styling homes and staging properties on the market. These certified Stylists will up-cycle, reinvent and repurpose what the client already has and turn it into something fresh, fabulous and new! Through the On Design column, this local team hopes to help Seaside Times readers realize their decorating dreams and resolve design dilemmas. Create. Inspire. LIVE BEAUTIFUL. Seaside Homes feature writer Linda M. Langwith I am thrilled to be the feature writer for Seaside Homes. With some experience in the construction and design business, I know just how complex the process is when one begins with the blank canvas of a building lot. Transforming thoughts and wishes into bricks and mortar requires a special rapport between designer and client, which is exactly the case with the project featured in this month’s issue. For George and Cheryl, Dan’s design of their lovely home satisfies on so many different levels, from the practical to the aesthetic. It was a pleasure meeting them.

Contributing writer Patricia Callendar Living on South Pender Island since 1994, I have been involved in many aspects of this vibrant community, but my favourite hobby is gardening. It was through the Pender Island Garden Club that I became close friends with Marjorie Bailey. Although already in her '80s, Marjorie was inspirational: such a knowledgeable gardener, with a great sense of humour and so much energy! Our friendship blossomed like a well-tended garden and I miss her constantly.

But now, in my own garden, I am forever cheered by the presence of many of her own perennial divisions and cuttings.

www.seasidetimes.ca

Publisher Sue Hodgson 250.516.6489 sue@seasidetimes.ca

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

Advertising Sales Marcella Macdonald, Lori Swan 250.516.6489

This Month’s Contributors Derek Aason • Arlene Antonik • Trysh Ashby-Rolls Rosemarie Bandura • Pene Beavan Horton • Jennifer Bowles Shelley Breadner • Amy Bridge • Yvonne Bulk Patricia Callendar • Peter Dolezal • Michael Forbes Doreen Marion Gee • Valerie Green • Tracey Jones Stacey Kaminski • Linda M. Langwith • Sheena Lott Barry Mathias • Susi McMillan • Amanda Punch Stu Rhodes • Suzanne Rose • Steve Sakiyama Steve Sheppard • Susan Simosko • Cliver Tanner Jo-Ann Way • John Webber • Heather Zais

P.O. Box 2173, Sidney, BC, V8L 3S6 news@seasidetimes.ca 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.

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SEASIDE TIMES | december 2012 | www.seasidetimes.ca

7

first word I think I’ve said this more than once … I LOVE THIS JOB! Even though I own the business, I’m always working with my team to provide you with the best Seaside Times has to offer for you, our readers.

I really can’t think of any other career that allows you to meet such interesting people, and also exposes you to such fascinating stories and events.

But how much time do we actually spend doing what we enjoy? You might remember that in the October issue, I mentioned that if you plan on working 40-hour weeks from age 20 to 65, you’ll be spending about 90,000 hours of your life at your job. For that reason alone, you owe it to yourself to figure out something you really enjoy doing.

If you’re doing something you enjoy, I think you’ll be better at it. Over the years I’ve met politicians, athletes, business owners and scientists, among others, who have all worked hard to be successful in their fields, but the reality is that life is not just about work, work, work.

I truly believe that life is about finding joy. It’s about doing fulfilling work, building relationships you love and being happy with who you are. Unless we are diligent about designing work we love, we can get pushed off

course in our quest to find joy. There seems to be the idea that success creates fun, but on the contrary: if we truly enjoy our work, then success usually follows.

Having fun gives us the energy to do our best work.

In this issue of Seaside Times you’ll read about some of the best work being done on the Saanich Peninsula today. In Journey of the Blue Whale: A Love Story (p.

10), as writer Doreen Marion Gee puts it: "Micheal de Roos takes the word 'journey' and ignites it into an explosion of adventure and drama." A talented and meticulous skeleton articulator, Michael and his team spent 2½ years excavating a buried 150tonne female blue whale, transporting it here from Prince Edward Island, then undergoing the arduous work of reconstructing the skeleton, which is now displayed in UBC's Beaty Biodiversity Museum.

You’ll also meet two extraordinary people in Seaside Homes (p. 2 – don’t forget to flip the magazine!). These owners truly know how to combine a love of First Nations art and living in a home in the "Spirit of the Forest" right here in the heart of North Saanich.

In case you didn’t know it already, at Seaside Times, I’m surrounded by incredibly talented people who are all passionate about what they do and have a lot of fun doing it … well, maybe not all the time, as deadlines can be challenging after all! So, let’s remember to smile often, embrace the unexpected and look for the pony in every pile of manure.

Wishing you a fun and joy-filled holiday season – Shop Local, please!

Sue Hodgson, Publisher

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SEASIDE TIMES | december 2012

Loyalty Card

letters Seaside Times welcomes your feedback!

Send letters to the editor via editor@ seasidetimes.ca or post your comments on our Facebook wall! Letters may be edited for space and content.

MARKET

I really had to just drop a short note to say how much I have enjoyed the last hour spent poring through your latest issue. The visions, sights, smells and love envelop your aspirations and direction. Cheers to you!

Peter Ellman, Muse Winery ✢ ✢ ✢ ✢ ✢ I'm sorry, but I must take issue with the rather clichéd answer to the question you asked at the start of First Word. I don't think "what pops into … most people's head when [they] hear the word 'leader'" is either the "[vision] of a general leading soldiers into battle, or a politician rousing a crowd to action." Most people, if I may be so bold to say, have far more options than those expressed by the political cartooning you suggest!

Lorne Peasland, Saanich ✢ ✢ ✢ ✢ ✢ In response to Doreen Gee's blog "We Can All Be Giants" at seasidetimes.ca: As Associate Producer on "Heart of a Dragon" I know I can speak not only for myself but for the filmmakers in how touched we all were with your review and the passion you brought to your writing. Many years ago, when I was working on The Passion of the Christ, Michael French approached me about a movie [he described as] passionate and inspirational, that anything is possible if you follow your dreams. Passion is something we all too often give up because people tell us it can't be done, there are too many obstacles, great walls to climb. Thank you for your passion and being part of this amazing journey with us.

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www.seasidetimes.ca | december 2012

9

Journey of the Blue Whale: A Love Story

by Doreen Marion Gee Michael de Roos takes the word "journey" and ignites it into an explosion of adventure and drama. His biologist’s ardour for nature took him on a cross-country love affair with a blue whale, a monumental and arduous journey to preserve the largest animal to ever live on earth. From digging up a blue whale carcass in Prince Edward Island to building it back up from scratch here on the West Coast, Michael’s herculean crusade brings us all closer to a majestic and beautiful creature of the deep. It invokes our duty to cherish and protect the natural world. On December 6th at 7 p.m., Michael will be telling his epic tale at the Shaw Ocean Discovery Centre in "The Journey of Big Blue."

flesh from the bones of an 85-foot whale, transporting the massive bones across Canada and rebuilding a traumatized skeleton here in B.C., where almost every bone had to be repaired. In addition to Michael de Roos, Michi Main and UBC’s Dr. Andrew Trites, many experts were involved in the articulation process of sculpting, painting and welding.

"We forget we have a responsibility to be stewards of the environment we live in and ultimately depend on."

Cetacea, Michael’s family-run business on Salt Spring Island, "has elevated the science of marine and terrestrial skeleton articulation to artistic process. Using the finest quality craftsmanship, Cetacea excels in its field creating exhibits that capture subjects as they would be found in the natural world." The blue whale project was the most challenging work that Michael and his team had ever done.

In 2008 they decided to dig up a 150-tonne female blue whale, buried on P.E.I, and transport it here to reconstruct the skeleton. It was a gargantuan, two-year undertaking: digging the whale up with an excavator, peeling away blubber and 10

SEASIDE TIMES | december 2012

The exalted result of this labour of love is the largest suspended skeleton in the world, elegantly postured in the Beaty Biodiversity Museum at UBC since 2010.

It hangs regally in its natural dynamic state as if it was torpedoing through the watery underworld, jaws agape and fins extended, "portraying a dynamic surface lungefeed – the single largest biodynamic activity on earth."

An endangered species, blue whales were almost hunted to extinction. Michael wants his exhibit to prompt a reverence for nature and a desire to protect it: "The blue whale skeleton really excites and inspires people to learn more and feel connected with our oceans and our

natural environment in general. It is an awe-inspiring symbol of the greatness of nature and the vastness of the biodiversity in our oceans and on our planet.

"We as a society often forget that we have a responsibility to be stewards of the environment we live in and ultimately depend upon. When people experience the blue whale, I hope that it will cause them to slow down and think about the power and beauty that exists in our natural world and that this is something well worth protecting."

Just like the cycle of sun and moon over a blue horizon, this love story has come full circle.

For more information, visit www.cetacea.ca and www.oceandiscovery.ca.

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www.seasidetimes.ca | december 2012

11

grey matters

An Act to Follow

by Trysh Ashby-Rolls 'Tis the season to be jolly, yet scowls and bad tempers fill the malls at this time of year. Buck the trend, think round yellow smiley face and pucker up. American artist Harvey Ball designed the famous symbol in 1963 when he created World Smile Day, October 8th, dedicated to acts of kindness with the aim of helping one person smile.

Mercy Ships, the world's leading Christian nongovernmental medical organization, celebrates World Smile Day by honouring its volunteer dentists.

The dental teams treat thousands of patients with dental problems and facial deformities – people who are shunned by their communities and, in Africa, sometimes branded as witches to be horribly abused or killed. Invited by individual governments, Mercy Ships visits many countries for whom a cycle of war, poverty and disease keeps the majority of the population struggling on the edge of survival. Ships dock in port cities and conduct three- to 10-month periods of field service offering vital health care services and developmental programs free of charge.

Volunteer dental assistant Jane MacIntosh, whose story we brought you in the August 2010 Grey Matters ("A New Lease on Life") ends her tour of duty December 1st, 2012. She'll celebrate Christmas with a big smile at the gift of visiting her daughter and son-in-law in New York, then her 89-year-old father and stepmother in Ontario, and Christmas itself with more family and friends in British Columbia. After which this feisty widow won't exactly be putting her feet up.

“In the spring, I will be traveling with a friend on a pilgrimage to visit the 172 sites of the former Indian Residential schools across Canada,” she writes in an email. “This journey will take us almost three years … from the very south of Canada to the very north, from the far west to almost the far east. Now how's that for a plan?”

She is inspired by the challenge of Canada's Truth and Reconciliation Commission (TRC). According to their website, its “mandate [is] to tell Canadians about the 150-year history of the schools in part through the statements of those whose lives were affected by them, and to guide and inspire a process of reconciliation and renewed relationships based on mutual understanding and respect.”

MacIntosh's expedition aims to acknowledge the history and legacy of the Indian Residential Schools in Canada, honour the survivors and those who died, learn more about Aboriginal culture, help non-Aboriginals learn more about the issues facing Aboriginal Canadians, take the recommendations of the TRC as a petition for others to sign, foster better relationships between non-Aboriginal and Aboriginal Peoples and probably write a book about her journey to raise the awareness of all Canadians.

Given the state of our world this season, there's much to scowl and grumble about. Jane MacIntosh isn't one of them. She's putting one foot in front of the other and marching forward, cheering things up. Even on bad days you can bet she finds something to smile about. If you can't avoid the mall, bear it and grin.

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SEASIDE TIMES | december 2012 | www.seasidetimes.ca

13

can we talk? . ................................... Publisher Sue Hodgson talks with At just eight years old, you had a particular love of art and sciences. With the encouragement of your art teachers at the time, and with your Dad immersed in civil engineering, how did these relationships help shape the person you are today?

Through my father’s engineering jobs our family emigrated from Scotland to Australia then Canada. I was encouraged by my mother and father in math and sciences as much as I was encouraged in art. For birthdays I may be given a microscope as well as a set of paints. I was as much interested in understanding and analysing the world around me as I was painting it. This gave a good balance.

My school teachers recognized my ability and interest and encouraged me to paint murals and enter art competitions. I won many art prizes in school which helped my confidence and really encouraged me to continue. I was very torn when I had to decide in grade 12 whether to go to art school or university. I decided on university as I didn’t want to be a starving artist.

You graduated from the University of British Columbia with a degree in Physiotherapy and

Occupational Therapy. How did this career inspire you to further your keen interest in art?

That would seem to be a leap but studying with real cadavers in anatomy lab at UBC was akin to the old classical art school training. I know this helped me be much more comfortable drawing figures in that usually I know if something looks anatomically incorrect. I studied posture and movement which are both so much a part of figure drawing.

You are an inspiration to many people in our community. You had a fulsome career in medicine but decided at one point to direct your focus back to your love of art. A risk; with kids at home, why the change in direction and how could you make such a lifestyle switch?

It was important to me to be home to take our three children to soccer and piano and swimming etc. I was able to continue doing locums at the hospital when time permitted. I was also able to be home and mark biology papers to students through the South Island Distance Education School.

When I reached the age of 30 I decided I couldn’t wait any longer. I felt a strong inner drive to paint.

It was risky but I had so much wonderful support from my husband. I hired a babysitter two days a week and created a space which I could leave set up and lock. It was wonderful to have my studio so while the babysitter was there I painted like mad. Some

Sheena Lott, Fine Artist & Illustrator days I wasn’t inspired, but after five minutes in my studio I was immersed. This made a huge difference to my artwork output. I gave myself a challenge that I would have a home show and also enter a few local competitions. If I bombed then I would take it as a sign that I should just do art as a hobby.

Fortunately, I had some success and jumped into it all head on.

You’ve just launched "Island Santa," your 10th children’s book that you’ve illustrated in your distinctive watercolour style. After your classic bestsellers "Jessie’s Island" and "Salmon Forest," how do you continue to come up with brilliant conceptual visuals, time and time again?

If the story is well written the words instantly conjure up images in my mind. The creative process is hard to describe. I have digital and print files of photographs I have taken over the years to help realize my ideas.

Not only do you produce exceptional illustrations in books, but you also have a very successful career as a professional artist. You are best known for your crisp, colorful watercolours, but I understand you have a keen interest in oil and acrylic painting. Can you expand on this?

I took a watercolour workshop and instantly fell in love with the spontaneity, transparency and fluidity of watercolours.

Time seemed short and watercolour painting is fast. Oils/ acrylic lend themselves better to large format paintings and are more popular now. They are also bolder. The public perceives them as longer lasting, though watercolours also last hundreds of years. People request oil commissions as much as watercolour and I enjoy all mediums.

You’ve exhibited in a number of galleries across Canada and the U.S., you have been an artist in local school districts and an artist-in-residence at numerous schools. As well, you’ve taught workshops on a number of cruise ships from Antarctica to more recent voyages such as Alaska and Venice. How do these all differ and do you have a preference?

Sheena Lott

Fine Artist & Illustrator

It is so gratifying to teach eager young minds and get them excited about watercolour. Young children are very creative and are open to trying something new. The adults on the cruise ships worry more about failing and what people think of their art. Interestingly, there is not much difference in the actual teaching of young students in the classroom or adults on a cruise ship. Most adults haven’t painted since grade two so I take them forward hopefully. The cruise ship classes are difficult and popular as sometimes 100 people attend. The travel aspect on the ships is a huge working bonus, so that is my preference. The scenery in Antarctica was spectacular so it was my favourite destination.

You’re an accomplished artist who has had a successful and varied career for the past 25 years. You are very goaloriented and have an inner drive for success of various degrees, both personal and business. You and I have had a detailed conversation on what else is possible, when everything seems complete in your life. Can you give us a glimpse of what else we might see from you?

My future plans include a show next year at the Winchester Gallery. As well I would love to write and illustrate another children’s book.

For more information visit www.sheenalott.com.

Photo by www.joannway.com.

FIRST NIGHT New Year’s Eve Family Celebration Join us at our 7th annual First Night New Year’s Eve celebration! Enjoy musical entertainment 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 off the night with a Fireworks Finale at 9pm!

Sheena Lott was born in Scotland, lived in Australia then moved to West Vancouver at age nine. She obtained a Degree in Physiotherapy and Occupational Therapy at UBC and worked at Vancouver General and Royal Jubilee Hospitals, also teaching Biology for correspondence schools.

By Dec 30th Adult $11 Child/Student (6 - 18yrs) $7 Child (0 - 5yrs) Free

Sheena has illustrated 10 children’s books, including Jessie’s Island and Salmon Forest. She has been honoured with many awards including the Myfanwy Pavelic Award.

On Dec 31st Adult $15 Child/Student (6 - 18yrs) $11 Child (0 - 5yrs) Free

Sheena exhibits with Winchester Galleries and Victoria Art Gallery Art Rental, conducts workshops on Cunard and Celebrity cruise ships and paints commissions.

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SEASIDE TIMES | december 2012 | www.seasidetimes.ca

15

driving greAt deAls honestly … at your car store

A giant thank you to all our clients who made 2012 a great success for us.

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Marjorie Bailey: 1911 - 2012 Born in Armstrong, B.C., on June 13th 1911, Marjorie Bailey attended high school in Vancouver then went on to the University of Manitoba, achieving her bachelor’s degree in home economics.

Returning to Vancouver to pursue a teaching career, her presence in the classroom was clearly inspirational and she maintained contact and friendship with many of her students for the rest of her long life.

Peter Bailey, Marjorie’s nephew, believes she turned down five offers of marriage, partly because she needed to look after her widowed mother, but also because she would not have been allowed to continue her teaching career as a married woman!

Marjorie retired in 1972 and moved full time to South Pender Island, B.C., plunging into community life with characteristic energy and effectiveness. She loved cats, going for long walks and travel, but perhaps her overriding passions were reading and gardening. At a stage in their lives when many people begin to take things easy, Marjorie became involved – in a leadership role – in almost every worthwhile community activity on the Pender Islands, as well as designing and creating a large, beautiful and productive garden of her own. She is probably most widely remembered for founding the Pender Island Library: originally known as “The Pender Lender.” In due course it became a full-scale library, of which she was President during the crucial early years, and her legacy continues as it grows and expands to this day.

At the age of 78, Marjorie realized an especially challenging dream by completing the Master Gardener program at Van Dusen Botanical Gardens in Vancouver. To do so

she travelled to Vancouver, staying overnight, for nine weeks through the winter months.

Marjorie had many gifts, one of them being her sincere interest in other people and their lives and concerns.

She constantly made new friends, and was willing to embrace the world of computers (in her '80s). Although changing technology and technical problems plagued her (along with arthritic and unsteady hands), she never gave up and was still emailing her family and friends within weeks of her death at 101 years old.

In 2006, Marjorie found herself an apartment in Norgarden, Sidney, put her house on the market, held a

by Patricia Callendar big garage sale, sold up and moved.

She was 95, but still felt the need to be useful and contribute to her new community, so she founded “The Norgarden Knitters.” Every Friday morning a group of ladies met under Marjorie’s guidance to knit or sew hand-crafted items for charity. This was amazingly successful, filling a social need among the residents of Norgarden as well as helping a good cause.

On the occasion of her 100th birthday, Marjorie traveled to Pender Island for a big celebration party at which she held court to friends and family from far and wide, taking the microphone to make a moving speech.

This diminutive woman shone with deep and abiding love for her family, her countless friends (young and old), and for her community. Marjorie Bailey inspired all who knew her, and her memory will long be treasured.

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17

Canada's Submarines

by John Webber A submarine is one of the most complex pieces of equipment on the planet. It must supply everything it needs while below the ocean and navigate under the sea by using an inertial guidance mapping system that is an underwater version of a GPS system.

A submarine is a thousand times more complex than an automobile and more complex than a space station. There are over a million parts on a submarine, and each part must pass stringent specifications and tests to meet the rigors of underwater warfare.

Canada’s Victoria class submarines weigh 2,400 tons and have over 100 gauges, 1,000 valves, 100 kilometres of cables, two kilometres of pipes and 100 digital sensors.

Each sub has a crew of 49 working six-hour shifts. With all its equipment, it is extremely tough to find a space just to hang a picture. I know a lot of home garages like that. While an automobile driver can stop any time to eat or fuel, a submarine must carry all its food, fuel and air, operate 24 hours a day and must withstand up to 300 tons per square metre sea pressure. A sub also has its own fire department, electric generators, repair shop, office, food service, crew quarters and, of course, weapon systems.

When purchasing a new computer or a used high tech submarine, there is always compromise. Each size and type of submarine has advantages and disadvantages, just like an automobile or a computer. There are no used submarine dealerships and because they require maintenance one-third of the time, they are purchased in groups of three or four to ensure two are always available.

During each maintenance period, the sub crew takes

time off with their family or obtains further technical training. The submarine must have all its systems and equipment certified regularly to meet stringent standards and ensure the proper safety of its crew.

While an auto is maintained from the outside, most submarine parts are removed from the inside and are maintained by over 1,000 workers. Canada’s submarines are an advanced diesel-electric prototype designed by the Royal Navy. This new design made it a challenge for our navy to change the required maintenance procedures from the previous Canadian Oberon class submarines to our new Victoria class submarines.

Submarines by nature are hidden and sneaky. There are over 40 nations with submarines. A sub during peacetime is primarily used for training the crews of warships and aircraft to locate foreign submarines. They are also used for intelligence gathering and to locate smuggling or illegal fishing operations. Submarines are necessary to help maintain our nation’s security and are an asset to our NATO commitment. Tactically, one submarine can tie up a whole fleet of surface ships searching for it.

The lessons of WWII taught us that we must have our navy trained and equipped for any conflict.

Homeowners put up a fence around their home to stop an intruder; we must also put up a defense around our country to stop an intruder. Omitting submarines from a navy would be like building only the top half of a fence around your home. Canada’s new Victoria class submarines are extremely capable and stealthy and will provide the needed underwater support for our navy over the next 20 to 30 years.

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SEASIDE TIMES | december 2012

Ronald A. Postings, R.D. Robin Postings, R.D. SIDNEY 250-655-7009

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VICTORIA 250-383-7227

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children’s boutique

U.S. Real Estate Investment

by Peter Dolezal Canadians have always been interested in U.S. real estate. This is particularly so for “Snowbirds” wishing to escape the harsh winters at home in favour of warmer climes in, for instance: Arizona, California or Florida. For the last several years, given the turmoil and falling prices of U.S. real estate with no seeming end in sight, potential purchasers have been wise to pause and reflect before purchasing. Although caution is still advised, it now may be time for those who have held off to have a closer look at real estate opportunities that have emerged south of the border. What has changed?

The U.S. backlog of unsold homes fell by almost one million units in the past year, to 2.5 million. This represents a 4.7-month inventory supply at current sales levels – a return to pre-crisis levels of 2005. Sales activity in both resale and new homes is picking up in most regions. Prices in all major markets have begun rising.

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The median price of a U.S. home now stands at $187,000. This is about one-half the Canadian median price, and one-third ours in Greater Victoria. With the added benefit of our above-par Canadian dollar, the lure of U.S. real estate becomes even stronger.

•Custom Homes •Renovations •Additions

The most compelling statistic, however, is the fact that it is now far cheaper for the average family in the U.S. to own a home than to rent. With 30-year mortgage rates available to qualified American borrowers at 3.4%, a $200,000 mortgage can be locked in at $885 per month for its full 30-year amortization. It seems inevitable that these developments will release pent-up demand among U.S. buyers. This should lead to further recovery of the real estate sector and with it, upward price pressure on homes.

Potential Canadian buyers must continue to perform their due diligence in specific areas. They must become fully aware of ongoing holding costs, U.S. income tax laws and estate tax issues. However, if till now they have been holding off on a purchase south-of-the-border, pending stabilization of prices, they should consider that prices are now far more likely to rise than to continue falling.

A retired corporate executive enjoying post-retirement as a financial consultant, Peter Dolezal is the author of three books, including his most recent, The SMART CANADIAN WEALTH-BUILDER.

Mountain Park C

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www.mountainparkconstruction.com 250.589.2323 www.seasidetimes.ca | december 2012

19

smell the coffee

I'm Dreamin' of a White Coffee

by Steve Sheppard Bing Crosby is without question one of my favourite Christmas crooners. The tone of his voice is perfect for Christmas songs, and "Silver Bells" is my all-time favourite.

Not before Remembrance Day, but after (listen up Charbucks), I grab a cup of coffee, stoke the fire and proceed to play some Christmas music a few evenings to help get me into the Christmas Spirit. I like the energy this time of year brings to communities, and the idea that people slow down a bit to enjoy one another’s company is comforting.

This year I thought I would try something new in my routine, because times change and so should I. I was introduced to White Coffee recently, and thought that it would be a great complement to "Bing" on a night by the fire. I got everything set up: the fire, the music, and then I made myself a cup of White Coffee and sat down to take it all in … then, WHAM! For a moment, I thought someone had tricked me and slipped tea into my coffee, but that wasn’t the case.

Christmas Blend Now Available

The person who recommended that I try this fairly recent take on traditional coffee thought they were doing me a favour? Well, let me create a picture for you using a Christmas music analogy. White Coffee is to Christmas as Snoop Dog is to country music!

(I don’t mean Snoopy either, he’s all Christmas!)

I grabbed the White Coffee bag and, while it was white like they said it would be, the taste was like drinking a cross between grass clippings and tea. The claims around White Coffee are numerous and they start off with "more caffeine" (nice), medicinal (good), and then they talk about how the coffee is "baked, not roasted" (I’m open), but I neglected to read on to where it mentions: "may taste like tea." Correction … there is no may taste like about it … it does. I called my friend who genuinely recommended I try this concoction, and she proceeded to tell me that she puts coconut syrup and steamed milk in hers. In other words, White Coffee is simply a new yuppie drink that isn't meant to taste like coffee at all!

The following night I revisited the crime scene, playing over the events of the night before Christmas (ha, ha) with one change … I brewed some freshly roasted coffee in a French press, sat down with a fire, put on Bing in the background and went back to my tradition. Some things should change, and some things should not.

Remember: buy your friends and family freshly roasted coffee at Christmas, and leave the "White Thing" to Bing … Happy Holidays, Steve Out.

Enter The Christmas Coffee Contest (in store for details) www.freshcup.ca

We wish you a Happy & Healthy Holiday Season & a Fabulous New Year!

The Peninsula’s only micro-coffee roaster offering ‘ 10 ’ different organic coffees from around the world

Saanichton: Mt. Newton X Rd. @ Wallace Dr. 20

SEASIDE TIMES | december 2012 | www.seasidetimes.ca

250.655.3443 • goingplatinumhairdesign.ca B - 2426 Bevan Avenue, Sidney

Jack Barker

jack@jackbarker.net

Debbie Gray

sagegray@shaw.ca

Rene Blais

renehblais@gmail.com

Gaye Phillips

gayesoffice@shaw.ca

Lisa Dighton

William Bird

ldighton@shaw.ca

Jim Allan

jimaallan@shaw.ca

Craig Walters

craig@craigwalters.net

Roy Coburn

roy@victoriaacreages.com

wm.d.bird@shaw.ca

May the Holidays Bring You Peace and Goodwill

Renee Colonnello

reneecolonnello@remax.net

Ross Shortreed

ross@rossshortreed.com

Beverley McIvor

bevmcivor@shaw.ca

Don Bellamy

info@donaldbellamy.com

Jeff Bryan

jeffbryan@shaw.ca

Gay Helmsing

ghelmsing@gmail.com

“Sidney Meet Up”

or visit www.sidneymeetup.com

for Daily Updates

Join the Group!

Call 778.426.4491 for more information

We Are a Network of Business Women Doing Business in and around Sidney, B.C.

Working together with other women on the Saanich Peninsula to help and empower us all

• cough/asthma • children’s health • arthritis/joint pain • muscle pain • tendonitis and more …

Carolyn O'Meara - Vision 2000 Travel Group #116 - 4480 West Saanich Road, Victoria 250.412.1877 carolyn.omeara@vision2000.ca

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Mikiala Christie BA, RAc, R.TCM.P

Building Memorable Holiday Experiences

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Thank you for all your support this year!

Happy Holidays from all of us at Seaside Times

times

SEASIDE

Sidney Meet Up Womens Network Group would like to thank everyone who helped make our first year such a big success.

We look forward to bringing you a New Year of exciting fundraising, networking and education.

9785 Fourth St, Sidney • sharon.bolton@vericoselect.com

Best Rates ◦ Best Service ◦ Best Results

Sharon Bolton – 250 655 0632

Have a happy holiday and take a few minutes to review your mortgage options with me – It could save you thousands of dollars.

Season’s Greetings to my clients and Seaside Times readers

9785 Fourth St, Sidney • 250.516.7653 • www.cherylyoung.ca

Finding you the perfect home: Anyplace. Anywhere.

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Every Good Wish for Your Happiness This Holiday Season

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Liquor Store Good Spirits. Great Value. 9 am - 11 pm 7 days a week Friend us – Liquor Express

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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

Proof yet again that Vancouver Island is a jewel.

ROYAL OAK DRIVE in the Broadmead Village Shopping Centre 250-658-5578

SIDNEY at the foot of Beacon in the Sidney Pier Hotel 250-656-5506

www.knickerbockers.ca 24

SEASIDE TIMES | december 2012

forbes & marshall

Where the Sun Don't Shine

by Michael Forbes There has been a warning of sorts for people who are thinking of becoming parents, or those expecting children, on blogs and Facebook recently. You know, tips and humorous ways to prepare the bewildered for the coming baby days and ensuing toddler tsunami. Some extol the virtues of trying things first to get used to the mayhem. Everything from cramming Oreos into your Bluray player or attempting to stuff an octopus into a bag to practice dressing a four-year-old. I'm envious of this satire for those thinking about having kids, because even though it's tongue-in-cheek, at least it's something. Nobody told me anything! I have, however, now had a bit of on-the-job training so I will dispense a little advice.

Number one. If you are a dad, always protect the groin.

There was a brief period in my life, from about 17 to 32 years old, when I was relatively sure that I was not going to be unexpectedly and breathtakingly karate chopped in the you know where. Then I had kids. It all started with the early morning wake-ups, as the young ones sprint down the hall and fling themselves onto the bed with their little knees turning into laser-guided missiles and my privates becoming a Taliban hideout. Then the carnage continued with the street hockey and the unforgiving tennis ball. Two weeks ago I got hit so hard in the Cul de Sac that my world view grew suddenly dim. The pain was so intense that I could barely make out the pointing and hysterical laughter of the neighbour boy. As tears rolled down my cheeks, I do remember seeing a vision of my dead grandmother, with a smirk on her face, inviting me into the light. After I regained consciousness and the ability to walk, I stormed into the garage, emptied some nails out of an old margarine container and used it as a poor man's jock.

up to me they would probably have scurvy by now.

The third rule is to give your kids things that are important enough that you can take them away. What good is that new Wii if you can't use it as a bargaining chip if they don't behave? It's an effective parenting tool and is used all the time in our house. So the next time the garage is clean and dishes washed, then as a reward, I can challenge the kids and their friends to some lively Wii hockey. I will just have to make sure the margarine container is in position before the neighbour boy gets here.

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.

Number two. Always take personal charge of disposing of all illicit potato chip and chocolate bar wrappers because if you trust your kids to hide them, their mother will find them. Many a conversation with my wife has started with "are you buying them chips again?" My dad was notorious for buying us junk food, so to me this means love. My wife is not happy with this kind of affection and can hear a wrapper crinkle from the next time zone. I'm sure if their nutrition was left solely www.seasidetimes.ca | december 2012

25

The first thing that strikes you about the Fresh Cup Roastery Café is how friendly it feels. There is a genuine buzz. People laugh, chat, sip their coffee and eat. Then they eat some more – and with good reason. The food

is fresh, flavourful and unique. And, if you happen to prefer wheat-free products, this is the place for you!

Fresh Cup was established in Saanichton 12 years

Freshly Roasted + Wheat Free = Awesome!

Saanichton's Fresh Cup Roastery Café

by Susan Simosko More Than Just The

The Latch

Peninsula’s Freshest Coffee !

the latch inn & restaurant • sidney

Legendary Salads !

Contemporary West Coast Dining

Gourmet Sandwiches Wholesome Soups Freshly Baked Muffins Decadent Desserts www.freshcup.ca

Gluten-Free Items

Saanichton: corner of Mt. Newton X Rd & Wallace Dr

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ago by Jim Townley and his family. “We roast all our own coffee and make just about everything from scratch,” says Kathy Townley, Jim’s sister. “People know that what we serve is fresh – only fresh.”

I am encouraged by baker, Sarah Green, to try some of her wheat-free products. First up is a lemon poppy seed loaf that is so moist and rich it’s difficult to believe it’s wheat free.

This includes wholesome soups, salads and gourmet sandwiches, to say nothing of the muffins, scones and luscious desserts, all of which fill the café with mouth-watering aromas.

“How do you do that?” I ask. Smiling, she tells me: “Through a lot of trial and error! I experiment with a range of rice and other gluten-free flours until I’m satisfied.”

26

SEASIDE TIMES | december 2012

Then I’m offered an herby wheat-free scone that is incredibly light and tasty. “Fridays are our gluten-free days,” Sarah says. “I come in early to clean the kitchen to remove all traces of wheat. Then I begin baking. I try to make enough for the weekend but often the products just fly off the shelf before the end of the day.” It’s not difficult to imagine that!

Jim tells me that whether it’s the wheat-free or regular baked goods, the Café prides itself on “smallbatch” cooking. “We like variety,” he explains. “We want people to enjoy what we serve and look forward to trying new flavours. Many of our customers say they love our ever-changing menu.”

As if to prove Jim’s point, Kathy urges me to try a warm sticky bun that features a bit of bacon.

That’s right: bacon. “Think pancakes, maple syrup and bacon,” Kathy says. “That’s the sort of sensual

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Season’s Greetings from the Management and Staff of Spitfire Grill!

After 23 years in business, The Rumrunner has only improved upon the delicious, fresh menu served daily.

We are the Perfect Spot for Your Holiday Parties!

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experience we wanted to create.” I take a bite and then another. I feel an addiction coming on!

Fresh Cup offers 12 types of coffee from around the world and all sorts of specialty drinks. “We have a passion for coffee,” Kathy tells me. “We want to create a warm, cozy feeling – sort of like a pub but with coffee as our centrepiece.” The terrific food and coffee are only part of the Fresh Cup story. The staff is equally excellent – friendly and efficient. “Everyone here knows what we’re after,” says Kathy. “From our wheat-free offerings to our organic coffees to creating variation in what we do – it’s all about giving our customers the very best experience we can!”

Fresh Cup Roastery Café is located at Mt. Newton X Road and Wallace Drive in Saanichton and is open every day. www.seasidetimes.ca | december 2012

27

Check out These Great Peninsula Restaurants!

The lemon poppy seed loaf is the best I’ve ever eaten, wheat-free or not.

You could be here for the Holidays

12-1180

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 could 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. Your monthly fee includes meals, weekly housekeeping and flat laundry service, private telephone, basic cable TV and so much more, including a Concierge and total peace of mind. Make Amica at Beechwood Village your new home, for the Holidays.

Call to book your tour today!

Amica at Beechwood Village A Wellness & Vitality™ Residence 2315 Mills Road, Sidney, BC V8L 5W6 Sidney Pier • Seaside Times Nov 2012 Ad • Size: •7.75” (w) x 4.925” (h) • Final File • Nov 08/12 250.655.0849 www.amica.ca

in the

atrium

Seasonal Gift Show

Thursday, December 6 – Sunday, December 9 Don Bastian - Wood Designs Bonnie Brugger – Fused Glass Cindy Gibson – Porcelain Ceramic Pottery

Gord Langston – Recycled Metal Chris Paul – Salish Art Wendy Picken – Painter

Wendy Pierson Diamond – Glass Jewelry Designer Helen Stewart – Author/Illustrator Sea Cider Farm & Ciderhouse

There’s something here for everyone on your ‘to buy’ list Our gift card kiosk will be open December 6-24

Thursday, December 6: 5-9pm Friday, December 7: 5-9pm

Saturday, December 8: 11am-4pm Sunday, December 9: 11am-4pm

9805 Seaport Place, Sidney, BC • 250-655-9445 • www.sidneypier.com 28

SEASIDE TIMES | december 2012

The Right Word

by Barry Mathias

Before the Second World War, it was reported that each generation had little trouble with understanding the next: they spoke the same language. "Keep in touch" meant write the occasional letter. However, with the development of multi-purpose telephones, mega-functional computers, "thinking" facsimile machines and 24-hour emailing and twittering, we are communicating in ways that are a mystery to our aged friends and relatives, and worse still they no longer have a grasp of our language. "What," they ask, "is an iPad or a tablet? How does one twitter?"

games world for all the family! Similarly, the oil industry renamed the "tar sands" to the "oil sands," hoping to convey a more environmental title. Sometimes words are deliberately misused: the former East German government insisted on calling its military dictatorship "The People's Democratic Republic." It made no difference to the suffering of its people, and the world found it a humourless joke. However, it is interesting to note that Hitler said: "The greater the lie, the greater the chance it will be believed."

Today, modern communications are responsible for a new vocabulary. We either understand toolbars, spreadsheets, mail merging and unzipping files, or we are excluded in a way that our forefathers were if they were unable to read. Ludwig Wittgenstein said: "The limits of my language stand for the limits of my world."

Many of us in our younger days remember older relatives insisting certain words were unacceptable.

"Don't say gosh, its a corruption of God" or "You can't say gotta," as in "I gotta be there." Today, the tables are often reversed. Recently, two elderly ladies were discussing meanings, and one said, "Don't say gay if you mean happy." Their granddaughter remarked: "I think you can be both."

There are those who avoid clarity, like physicians who will not tell you a patient is dying, but will say: "The prognosis as of this time is without significant areas of encouragement." Or there are bosses who say: "We are having to let you go, due to financial inclemency," rather than "You're sacked and we're going bust."

Misunderstandings often occurred when translating one language to another. It was reported that a wellknown cola firm, on its entry into China, put up a huge advertising sign. Sales fell off badly, and the managers discovered, to their horror, that the sign actually read: "Drink Cola and join your ancestors." There was also the French hotel firm whose advertisement read: "We have a French widow in every bedroom."

Then there is the use of subtle word changing. In Las Vegas they changed the name of their industry from "gambling" to "gaming," and altered the public perception of the "wicked" gambling world to a "fun"

Every day new words enter our active vocabulary, while other, perfectly usable words fall out of fashion.

When did you last use the words miscreant, refulgent or insouciant? There are words that describe actions or events so aptly, we wonder why they have fallen into disuse. How better to describe "nonsense" than "poppycock?" Or "awkwardness" as "cack-handed?"

As instant communication expands, we are in danger of relying on fewer words, and with the reduction of our vocabulary we could be losing the beauty and subtlety of our language. For example: "By dappled moonlight, three hours before the arrival of the witching hour, I shall be waiting for you, breathless with anticipation, as your welcome barque touches this fabled isle of dreams and mystery." The text version becomes: "c u at fer.stn. 9pm."

Language, like everything else, has its fashions.

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Deborah Reid, FMA, FCSI | Investment Advisor & Financial Planner 250-655-2884 | 1-888-773-4477 | deborah.reid@rbc.com | www.rbcds.com/deborah.reid RBC Dominion Securities Inc.* and Royal Bank of Canada are separate corporate entities which are affiliated. *Member-Canadian Investor Protection Fund. RBC Dominion Securities Inc. is a member company of RBC Wealth Management, a business segment of Royal Bank of Canada. ŽRegistered trademarks of Royal Bank of Canada. Used under licence. Š RBC Dominion Securities Inc. 2012. All rights reserved.

Professional Wealth Management Since 1901

www.seasidetimes.ca | december 2012

29

Nicholas Fairbank – The Music Man!

by Arlene Antonik Pianist, organist, harpsichordist, singer, composer, choral conductor and performer – meet Nicholas Fairbank, The Music Man! Born into a musical family in New Westminster, instruments and singing surrounded Nick from his earliest days.

“Growing up, I was always involved with music but never thought of it as a career,” he reminisced. “After high school I took a science degree in Biology but eventually it became clear that my plans to become a doctor like my father had been replaced by my far greater interest in piano and pipe organs.”

Nick studied music and languages in London (UK), Paris, California and Vancouver and earned three Masters degrees including his Masters of Music from the University of Victoria. He became an expert organist and, when the Victoria Conservatory of Music was ready to unveil their refurbished 1910 Casavant organ in July 2010, it was Nicholas Fairbank who had the honour of performing on it for the first time. With the console’s multiple foot pedals, four Get ready for winter! mention this ad when bookinG and receive

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Currently, Nick is on the faculty of the Victoria Conservatory of Music teaching organ and harpsichord, and is the artistic director and choral conductor for the Via Choralis Chamber Choir and two of the four Viva Youth Choirs. He is an examiner for piano and organ with the Royal Conservatory of Music in Toronto, national president of the Royal Canadian College of Organists, and an associate composer of the Canadian Music Centre. He has composed over 80 pieces of music for keyboard and voice, and somehow finds time to sing baritone with the six-member, a cappella vocal ensemble, Hexaphone.

For three weeks this Fall, Nick was on board the Antigua, a 49-metre ice-class expeditionary sailing vessel, as part of “The Arctic Circle 2012,” a collaborative program for artists and innovators. “I was delighted to be invited to participate in this voyage to the High Arctic,” Nick explained. “My goal was to compose a piece of music inspired by the Northern Lights, the openness and the absolute quiet of being this close to the North Pole. We were lucky enough to see a polar bear feeding on a seal carcass close to shore and when we returned two days later, he was still there!”

Nick titled his choral work “Isbjørn,” which means polar bear in Norwegian. St. Andrew’s Cathedral has been booked for the premiere next November to be sung by five Victoria choirs including Via Choralis, the Viva Youth Choirs, and Hexaphone, which will have only five members singing that evening since one will be conducting!

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keyboards, stop knobs, couplers and buttons, bringing the 3,500 golden pipes in the Alix Goolden Performance Hall to life was no easy task.

Under Nick’s skillful hands – and feet – a symphony of sound filled the hall in one of those glorious moments that the audience would never forget.

778.746.7311 www.truedetail.ca

SEASIDE TIMES | december 2012 | www.seasidetimes.ca

Nick’s choirs have two upcoming afternoon concerts.

On December 15th the Viva Youth Choirs perform “Winter Concert” in Victoria, and on February 3rd, Via Choralis presents “Northern Reflections” in Sidney. It’s anticipated that the winning entry from the Via Choralis Young Composers Competition will be performed for the first time at this concert. As a music man, Nick Fairbank is one of the best. Check out his website at www.fairbankmusic.ca for more information on this noteworthy musician in our midst!

8 Saanichton th

C ommunity C hristmas & C raft f air …

A Peninsula Family Tradition

Saturday, December 8th

9 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Peninsula Celebrations Society

Presenting Sponsors :

Christmas Tree Trail !

9:30 - 1

Visit each of the local businesses along the trail, collect a stamp at each location.

Pancake Breakfast ! 9 - 11:30 with Santa !

LOCATION :

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

Prizes !

Horse-Drawn Carriage Rides !

10 - 1

Two cozy Christmas carriages will make their way around the Saanichton Village.

(Tally-Ho Carriage Tours)

Community Partners : • • • • •

Anchor Insurance CIBC Coast Capital Savings Escape Solutions Fresh Cup Café

• • • • • •

Photos with Santa ! by donation

9 - 11:30

Gartley Station Fermentations Genesis Hair & Esthetics Island Family Chiropractic Laing’s Lock & Key Peninsula CO-OP Peninsula Family Chiropractic

• • • • • •

Prairie Inn Pub Saanich Pioneer Society St. Mary’s Anglican Church Thrifty Foods Victoria Costumes Western One Rentals

Christmas Headquarters @ Fresh Cup 1931 Mt. Newton X Rd.

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Something for everyone on your list …

A Dutch-designed product; first time in Canada!

Burg Watch-Phones are bluetooth capable touch screen phones that can make/receive phone calls. Built-in speaker and the ability to take pictures, record video and play music. Just put in your SIM & MicroSD card and off you go! Special discount code for Seaside Times readers – enter "seaside" at checkout – and receive $100 off the regular price of $369. 95 Burg Watch Phones Canada burgcanada.com

Proudly made in Chilliwack, B.C., FirstMate Pet Foods uses all-natural, regionally sourced ingredients. The company has manufactured top quality dog, cat and fish food since 1989.

FirstMate’s grain free formulations are truly unique in the marketplace. These diets are 100% nutritionally complete, using only one source of protein and one source of carbohydrates.

(6.6lbs premium cat food $13. 99 ; 5lbs original all life stages dog food $18. 99 ) Buckerfield's 1970 Keating X Rd, Saanichton buckerfields.org

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SEASIDE TIMES | december 2012

Gizella Lemon Squares – Try to find these elsewhere!

A tangy, lemon-flavoured square dusted with icing sugar on a soft sugar dough base.

These lemon squares are amazing, pre-cut and frozen.

Hardly worth making them yourself!

Tart, rich perfection: a crowd-pleasing holiday treat! ($12.99 ) Deep Cove Market 10940 West Saanich Rd, North Saanich deepcovemarket.com

photos (except game) by joannway.com • special thanks to trendspotter Susi McMillan

Featuring six different decks, Family Charades has both easy and challenging charades for all members of the family. Youngsters not yet able to read can use Picture Charades, while Time Capsule Charades provides a nostalgic trip back to the '70s, '80s and '90s. ($29. 99 ) Buddies Toys 2494 Beacon Avenue, Sidney buddiestoys.ca

Intelligent Nutrients from Aveda founder and beauty industry visionary Horst Rechelbacher is now available in Canada. USDA Certified Organic, non-toxic, gluten free and sustainably sourced, the line includes aromas, hair care, skin care and delicious lip care products.

(Shampoo 444ml $26; conditioner 444ml $28) Salon J 101 - 2506 Beacon Ave, Sidney intelligentnutrients.com

(offer expires December 24th)

Available at

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Open Monday – Saturday 9 am – 6 pm www.seasidetimes.ca | december 2012

33

island dish

A Pair of Pears

by Jennifer Bowles In the world of food I consider some flavour matches the epitome of a perfect marriage. With luscious pears, these matches can be savoury or sweet.

The two recipes I enjoy pair poached pears with chocolate sauce and blue cheese sauce. Each pairing has its own distinct flavours and gorgeous taste, but more importantly, they are so simple and the presentation is show-stopping, especially during the Festive Season!

The first recipe is a perfect appetizer for a small holiday gathering. It looks beautiful on the plate and always earns accolades from your guests. It's peared (whoops, it's getting hard to keep track) with a pungent gorgonzola cheese sauce. Poaching the pear in a sultry bath of buttery chardonnay, a splash of vodka, a little chicken broth, fresh leeks and a pinch of onion powder transforms this pear into a savoury vehicle for the gooey cheese. I garnished mine with lightly toasted almond slivers and tiny edible golden stars from a craft store, which will shimmer against all your festive decor!

The choice of pear is up to you, but I prefer Bartlett over Bosc. Bartlett is a little sturdier and will stand up to the poaching, but you're in the driver's seat. Let's begin with the savoury recipe (the method is the same for both recipes):

Savoury Pear

4 whole pears, peeled with the stem on 2 cups chardonnay (remember, never cook with a wine you wouldn't drink) 2 cups chicken broth 1 leek, roughly chopped 1 tsp onion powder pinch of salt splash of vodka

Bring the liquid to a boil (be sure to taste and adjust salt if necessary) and keep at a simmer.

Immerse the pears in the liquid and poach for 20-30 minutes until soft. You will have to turn them to ensure even poaching. Set aside to cool.

For the gorgonzola sauce, bring 500 mls of whipping cream to a boil (you'll have to watch this one carefully) and reduce until thick and saucy, about 10 minutes.

Remove from heat and stir in crumbled cheese until 34

SEASIDE  TIMES | december 2012

melted and smooth. Dip each pear in the sauce, plate and serve with a drizzle of balsamic vinegar and crackers.

Sweet Pear

I recently returned from Toronto where I attended a course that earned me a Tea Sommelier Certification. I walked away with a new appreciation for the amazing variety of teas and a love of Chai Tea. Boasting notes of warm cinnamon, cardamom, cloves and pepper, this tea's versatility is magical and is the perfect suitor for my sweet poached pears. The poaching liquid is a concotion of merlot, cinnamon sticks, anise seed, lemon peel and a cup of strong steeped Chai which imparts a deep rich colour to the flesh of the pear.

Use the same proportions of wine and stock from the previous recipe with the merlot and tea. Add a half cup of sugar, a cinnamon stick and an anise pod.

Next you'll need to make the chocolate sauce; melt 6 oz dark chocolate over a double boiler. Pat the pears dry with some paper towel and roll the bottom half in the melted chocolate. Set upright on a plate and garnish with raspberries. Feel free to glitz up the plate for the holidays with gold leaf, sprinkles or anything you desire. Your holiday guests will thank you.

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Wine pairing courtesy Gartley Station: Pairing a wine with pears poached in wine is pretty much a no-brainer: the obvious choice would be to pair the pears with the same wine they were poached in. When wine is used in cooking, in this case as the poaching liquid, the alcohol and volatile aromas in the wine evaporate, the fruit intensifies and any residual sugars caramelize.

By serving the same wine as an accompaniment, the characteristics altered by the cooking process are reintroduced onto the palate.

The real trick is picking the right wine to poach with in the first place: it needs to be strong enough to stand up to the most intense flavour on the plate without overpowering the overall dish.

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8508 Aldous Terrace, N. Saanich (Wallace & Amity) www.seasidetimes.ca | december 2012

35

The Peninsula's Best-Kept Secret They’ve been handing out money for years, yet if you asked 10 people on Beacon Avenue, nine would tell you “I’ve never heard of them.” They have $367,000 in the bank, and every year they give the interest on that money to between six and 10 worthy causes, yet they’re the Peninsula’s best-kept secret!

virtually all the money raised is invested, with negligible costs, makes it an attractive charitable investment.

Unlike many charitable organizations, their cost of operation is extraordinarily low – 2.5%. They have no paid staff, and are completely a volunteer organization. They have been around for more than 15 years helping organizations like the Air Cadets, the Saanich Peninsula Hospital Auxiliary, North Saanich Mountain Bike Society and dozens more.

They feel that money raised in our neighbourhood should be spent in our neighbourhood. What is this paragon of charitable organizations? It’s the Saanich Peninsula Foundation, which exists for only two purposes: firstly, to raise funds to invest forever; and secondly, to distribute the interest from those investments to worthy Peninsula causes.

I have been proudly associated with this fundraising charity since its inception. The attraction for me is the permanency of my donation – it goes on working forever, and has the ability to assist many very worthwhile Peninsula recipients. The fact that

by Clive Tanner

The Saanich Peninsula Foundation idea was originally started by Jack Barker, when he was a Town Councillor in Sidney. He felt that the Town and Councillors were often put in an untenable position by requests from charitable organizations for grants, many of which had to be turned down due to the lack of municipal funds. Jack convinced North and Central Saanich to support the idea, and a committee was organized.

The “Foundation” system has been around in North America since the 1930s. Victoria was incorporated in 193637. For many years, the Victoria Foundation lay dormant with very few dollars in the bank and only really came to life in the late 1980s. Today, it has over $170 million invested.

The Saanich Peninsula Foundation Society is looking for volunteers to join its membership ($10), board members, and also donations and bequests. For further information email info@saanichpeninsulafoundation.ca or check our website: www.saanichpeninsulafoundation.ca.

If you’re interested in participating, please contact me at 250-655-4447 Beacon Books, in Sidney.

Thank you on behalf of our Board and recipients.

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4649 West Saanich Road, Saanich, BC Café 250.479.6747 Tea Emporium 250.479.0497 36

SEASIDE TIMES | december 2012

The Last Penny Drive?

by Amanda Punch Clink, clink, clink … feel those copper pennies – practically worthless – deep within your pocket?

Each one costs 1.6 cents to produce, and has a value of one twentieth of its original purchasing power. For these reasons, the Royal Canadian Mint has decided to stop distributing pennies by February 4th, 2013 and eventually the coin will be discontinued. Without pennies prices will be rounded – no more $1.99 – but our government will save around $150 million a year.

Free the Children, a youth-supported organization, has taken this event as a great opportunity for one final penny drive. The organization was founded in 1995 by inspirational Craig Kielburger when he was only 12 years old. Now students from schools across the country – including myself – are supporting Free the Children’s campaigns.

The penny drive, or "We Create Change Campaign" is said to be the "largest penny drive in Canadian history." It’s a part of Free the Children’s "Water Initiative" which is meant to provide water for the people in developing countries.

Their goal: to provide "100,000 people with water for life."

Participating students will receive bags to fill with pennies and then drop off at a local RBC branch (the campaign’s sponsor). One bag needs to contain $25 – that’s 2,500 pennies – enough to provide clean water to one person for life. "Pennies can create a lot of change," says the Free the Children website.

RBC will be accepting bags until December 21st, and again from May 1st to June 30th. However, collecting pennies isn’t the only way to help those one billion people without access to clean water – you can also donate online or buy a fashionable Water Rafiki Friend Chain.

For more information, visit www.freethechildren.com.

Saa n i c h H i s t o r i c a l A r t i f a c t s F o u n d a t i o n p r e s e nts:

CHRISTMAS IN THE VILLAGE 2012

at Heritage Acres

December 7-9, 14-16 5-8 pm/$10 per carload

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To Be Won! Stop by these local retailers and enter to win* one of two $1,000 shopping sprees in the fabulous shops of Sidney!

Beacon & Eggs Brown’s The Florist Bubba Loo Children’s Wear Gifts & Toys Buddies Toys Cameron Rose Christine Laurent Fine Jewellery & Gifts d.g.bremner & co.

Dig This Donatello's Exist Hairworx Flush Bathroom Essentials For Little Paws Grooming Studio Hemp and Company In Touch Cards & Gifts

Knickerbocker’s Marmalade Tart Boutique Mineral World Miss Bliss Boutique Muffet & Louisa Papyrus Cards & Gifts Pitt & Hobbs Shaw Ocean Discovery Centre Sweet Talk & Lace Tanner’s Books The Children’s Bookshop The Dancing Orchid Waterlily Shoes, Bags & Accessories Woodshed Restaurant

Look in the January issue to find out if you’re one of our lucky winners! * one entry per person contest deadline Dec. 14th

7321 Lochside Dr., Saanichton 250-652-5522 • www.shas.ca Visit Santa • Entertainment • Train Rides Refreshments • Christmas Lights Raffle • Prizes … and more!

www.seasidetimes.ca | december 2012

37

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Are You a Young Reader Who Loves to Read?

Do You Want to be Published?

young readers boo k review

No Passengers Beyond This Point,

by Gennifer Choldenko Reviewed by Amy Bridge, 16 In the book No Passengers Beyond This Point by Gennifer Choldenko, you'll literally find yourself in the characters' thoughts. Each chapter of this book is told by one of three main characters: India, the teenage girl with a bad attitude; Finn, who's always there for everyone; and, last but not least, Mouse, the brainiac child.

After their house is foreclosed on, the kids have no choice but to move in with their Uncle Red while their mother stays back to finish her job. With only one day's notice, they hop on a plane to their new home … or so they think. Soon, they're in a totally different world that makes no sense.

And finding their way out doesn't look promising … .

If I were to rate this book out of 10, I would give it a 4.5.

It was an okay read, but it definitely lacked a strong plot.

The style of writing Choldenko uses is an acquired taste: since every chapter is told from one of the main character's perspectives, it can be hard to keep track of who's telling the story. It also only gives you one point of view at a time, which can make a story bland. I found myself confused in parts of the book; the storyline just wasn't consistent.

I will most likely never read this book again and I wouldn't recommend it to any bookworms I know.

Of course, like I said before, the style of writing is an acquired taste and it just might be your taste.

As for me, I think I'll be donating my copy.

Then We’re Looking For YOU! Each month Seaside Times will have a selection of titles from The Children’s Bookshop to choose from

If you’d like to write a review and have it published, please email editor@seasidetimes.ca 38

SEASIDE TIMES | december 2012

New Releases – Available at The Children's Bookshop: Clementine: All About You Journal by Sara Pennypacker Diary of a Wimpy Kid: The Third Wheel by Jeff Kinney Mousetronaut by Mark Kelly Neil Flambe and the Tokyo Treasure by Kevin Sylvester Rebel Heart by Moira Young Return to the Willows by Jacqueline Kelly Sacrifice by Charlie Higson This Moose Belongs to Me by Oliver Jeffers Why I Love Canada by Daniel Howarth Witch & Wizard: The Fire by James Patterson

EmbraceBC – Inclusion not Seclusion The Mary Winspear Community Cultural Centre has received financial support in the amount of $35,000 to create theatrical productions by youth and for our youth, which address multiculturalism and racism.

diverse cultures that shape British Columbia with EmbraceBC program funding. Through performing arts productions, the Centre will raise awareness about British Columbia’s rich multicultural identity.

"Racist behaviour and practices impede full participation of individuals and groups in our society."

In 2013, five “Why am I different” performances will be presented in the Charlie White Theatre and within the region to address inclusiveness.

British Columbia is characterised by a rich variety of languages, traditions and cultures that make up its diverse cultural mosaic.

To promote the participation and engagement of all cultures across the province, the Government of British Columbia has chosen the Mary Winspear Community Cultural Centre as a catalyst to honour the

The participation and engagement of all cultures in B.C. is vital for strong and vibrant communities where understanding, acceptance and mutual respect underlie social, economic and political activity.

The first performing arts production is “The Forgotten Children,” presented January 25th and 26th 2013, in partnership with Margaret Watt from Mountain Dream Productions.

Margaret is well versed on social issues and has included her performing arts students in a number of plays that deal with social concerns such as bullying, our environment and technology effects on children. Margaret states: “Racist behaviour and practices impede full participation of individuals and groups in our society. I feel it necessary to address these issues utilizing performing arts. By including our youth in the development of the productions, we then meet the needs of our children and address issues relevant to all of them today.”

103-2537 Beacon Avenue (in the Cannery building) Sidney 250.656.5606 info@waterlilyshoes.com www.seasidetimes.ca | december 2012

39

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National Bank Financial is an indirect wholly-owned subsidiary of National Bank of Canada which is a public company listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange (NA: TSX).

Many of us remember the hapless British ski jumper, fondly referred to as “Eddie the Eagle,” at the 1988 Calgary Olympics. With his fogged-up glasses and unique jumping style, Eddie Edwards endeared himself to the spectators who held their collective breath as he soared from the takeoff platform towards an uncertain landing.

“Eddie the Eagle” soars again, but now he launches himself from the gloved arm of falconer Anne Sison.

His purpose is not to win a gold medal, but to scare away the flocks of Canada geese that land on the Fairwinds Golf Course in Nanoose Bay every year.

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SEASIDE TIMES | december 2012

For the past two years, the team of Anne Sison and “Eddie the Eagle,” a 12-year-old trained bald eagle, has succeeded where alternative methods have failed. When the geese see Eddie flying towards them, there’s no uncertainty there. They take off!

“The Fairwinds Golf Course is uniquely positioned to attract hundreds of geese every year,” Anne explained.

“There are many water features on the course, it’s located beside the ocean, and lies on their migratory flight path. The geese particularly enjoy the water and the putting greens. As you can imagine, the golfers get teed off if they have to putt through geese droppings!”

Golf courses have tried various measures to rid themselves of Canada geese such as the use of explosives, starter pistols, spray repellants, bird distress

"Eddie the Eagle" Flies Again!

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calls, eagle kites and even inflatable alligators.

“The geese have to be convinced there is a threat present as they don’t scare easily,” Anne noted. “I keep Eddie just a little bit hungry when he’s working and the geese can sense this. When predators are hunting there is a fierceness and focus about them. This is why prey animals will share a watering hole with a lion when they sense it’s not in hunting mode.”

Anne is a keen believer in the balance of nature and, although the geese are not harmed using her methods, she knows they need to be continuously harassed to encourage them to find a different grazing and nesting area. She often follows up Eddie’s morning sessions with her border collie, Murphy, to keep these stubborn birds on high alert. The dog chases the geese away but is not as effective as the white-headed eagle with the hooked yellow beak and those gripping talons!

“Eddie and I will often start the day by patrolling the course on a golf cart,” Anne continued. “When I was training him, he would land on the top of the golf cart, skid across and slide right off onto the ground. He would be angry and confused and take it out on me by pounding his talons on my boots and hissing. Now he rides up there like a sentry and the geese see him coming!”

If you’d like to learn more about this unique partnership, visit Anne’s website at www.geesecontrol.org. And if you’re near Nanoose Bay, look up – you may just see “Eddie the Eagle” flying overhead once more!

2356 Beacon Avenue, Sidney 250.656.2712

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The Perfect Place to Grab a Coffee and Catch Up With Friends at the corner of Wallace Dr. & East Saanich Road café open till 9 p.m.

www.seasidetimes.ca | december 2012

41

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It drags the two of them beneath the island’s pristine paradise into a sleazy world of drug addiction and prostitution and turns their relaxing vacation into a nightmare beyond belief. Adding to her dismay, Philomela becomes a suspect. A sense of justice gradually rises to the fore, propelling her to use her intuition and powers of observation to help solve the puzzle of not one, but two disturbing murders.

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Benni Chisholm

Strolling on the seashore with her husband, Philomela Nightingale makes a grisly discovery.

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Benni Chisholm is a lapsed public health nurse, a retired mother of four, and an inveterate traveller. Her articles and short stories have appeared in magazines, newspapers, and booklets. Stained Sand is is her first published novel.

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In this local author’s novel, Stained Sand, Philomela Nightingale makes a grisly discovery that drags her and her husband into a world of illegal drugs, turning their holiday on Maui into a nightmare. With a desire to see justice done, she helps Detective Kanui solve two murders.

This "whodunit" provides entertainment for readers over the age of fifteen.

This title is available as paperback and e-book at www.friesenpress.com/bookstore, www.Amazon.ca and www.chapters.ca. Or ask your local bookstore to order it in!

Author Benni Chisholm lives with her husband on Vancouver Island. Her short stories and articles have appeared in booklets, magazines, and newspapers (including Seaside Times and Times Colonist).

STAINED SAND is her first published novel.

your community

Henley & Walden has been serving the legal needs of the Saanich Peninsula for well over 30 years. From simple, legal questions to complex issues and disputes, the lawyers of Henley & Walden provide wise counsel and guidance across a wide range of legal services.

Our experienced lawyers provide exceptional professional services in Personal and Business Law including Real Estate, Corporate and Commercial, Wills, Trusts and Estate Planning, Powers of Attorney, Representation Agreements, Executorships, Estate Administration and Litigation, Family Law and General Litigation.

www.henleywalden.com

Supported by a friendly, professional and helpful staff with years of experience and dedication, we pride ourselves on serving the Saanich Peninsula community in the most proficient and professional way possible.

If you have any questions with respect to a Personal or Business Law matter, one of our experienced Henley & Walden lawyers would be pleased to meet with you at your convenience.

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

42

SEASIDE TIMES | december 2012

TEL: 250-656-7231

Saanich School District Jumpstarts Student Careers – Myles Harris

by Stu Rhodes When Myles Harris was recently interviewed at his employer’s job site, he had an air of comfort and confidence not usually seen in young apprentices of his age.

Myles graduated from Parkland Secondary School in June of 2011 and he is already a third year apprentice successfully working in and learning the trade of carpentry.

One might ask how Myles got such a great head start. In grade 12 he spent an entire semester in a specialized work experience program known as SSA (Secondary School Apprenticeship). With the help of his career counselor, Roger Pires, Myles developed a personalized education plan that permitted him to accumulate all the mandatory graduation requirements in the first semester of grade 12, allowing him to work on his elective credits through SSA in second semester.

His employer at the time, Chris Barker of Oceanview Construction, is a big supporter of the SSA program and sponsored Myles as a carpenter apprentice. Harris attended Camosun in the summer of his graduating year where he successfully completed the level one technical training and he hasn’t looked back yet.

Acquiring carpentry skills and training has permitted him to try out different facets of the trade.

After working on a few commercial sites with Pacific Shore Builders, he admitted he prefers residential construction. He loves the feeling of accomplishment.

“Seeing things built that weren’t there yesterday gives me the satisfaction of saying, ‘I built that,’” said Harris.

Of his current site he had this to say: “When I came to this project a few days ago there was just a foundation, and now we’re standing in a nearly finished house.”

Harris credits his career counselor for helping him choose this path. “Mr. Pires planted the seed with me. Without his guidance, I’m not sure where I’d be right now.” Myles admitted that he is making pretty good money working in the carpentry trade, but insisted it’s less about the money and more about the learning and sense of accomplishment: “This program gave me a career path and introduced me to the world of work in a way that you wouldn’t think a high school would be able to.”

When asked what he would say to other students, he said: “If you don’t know what you want to do, just try a trade. It will give you some qualification and even if it’s not the one for you, it allows you to see other workers and careers at your site.” A little bit of time off for travel and a return trip to Camosun for level three technical training are both in the immediate future for Myles Harris.

For more information on how to get involved as a student apprentice, or as an employer sponsor in this, or any other career program in Saanich School District, contact Garry Arsenault: 250-658-6679, Roger Pires: 250-655-2715, Wendy Walker: 250-514-0259, or Stu Rhodes: 250-4159211. Visit http://www.youtube.com/user/saanichcareers to view the promotional video Jump Start Your Career.

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His employer, Randy Cunningham Construction, is thrilled with the skill set that Myles has already acquired and brings to the job. Another big supporter of the Saanich School District trades programs, Cunningham explained that Myles was the eighth student he has

taken on. “It’s obviously working,” he says, and he would recommend that other employers take advantage of the opportunity to get youth working.

43

conversations from the past

Julia Glendinning 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. Although these conversations are merely creative figments of my imagination, they are all based on fact.

Have we become more jaded in outlook concerning the real meaning of Christmas? For this interview, I decided to have an imaginary conversation with someone who grew up in Victoria in the 1880s and remembered a more simplistic time with less commercialization. Julia Glendinning, an oft-time writer herself, was the youngest daughter of pioneer Adam Glendinning. (interview conducted in the 1940s).

Julia, can you tell me about your earliest memories of Christmas in Victoria?

Yes, I remember how things used to be in the 1880s. It was always so exciting to head into town in our carriage from the Blenkinsop Valley on Christmas Eve. Describe what town was like?

Well, there were no big department stores. There were mainly dry goods stores and a few toy shops which thrilled the children, thinking about what we might receive – mostly simple toys. People always did their shopping on Christmas Eve. Not weeks ahead?

Oh no … Christmas Eve was so colourful with evergreens and holly hung in every store. It was a time when we could also meet all our friends downtown and wish them the compliments of the Season.

Tell me about the butcher shop Goodacre and Danley.

Wasn’t there something special about that store?

by Valerie Green

Yes, it was one of Victoria’s greatest attractions.

They held an annual “fat beef show” at the corner of Government and Johnson Streets. The holly hung alongside quarters of grain-fed beef. An 18- to 20-pound roast of prime beef was a favourite for Christmas dinner although there were also turkeys, geese and little suckling pigs with apples in their mouths.

After you had shopped in town, what did you do then?

If the weather co-operated we would then take a sleigh ride into the countryside of Cadboro Bay, Oak Bay or Fairfield. I can still recall the harness bells jingling as we travelled through the snow. It was magical.

Do you have any other Christmas memories?

Well, it seemed that churches were always filled to capacity. The Christmas trees were lighted with real candles in the old Methodist Church on East Saanich Road. The only other church in North Saanich was the Anglican Church at Patricia Bay on Mills Road, and in South Saanich there was, of course, old St. Stephen's Church.

What did folks do for entertainment?

We always had numerous visitors. We played games and sang around the piano. Visitors always brought food with them. At New Year’s there were often dances; the adults danced to old-fashioned waltzes, the lancers or quadrilles.

We seemed to make our own entertainment, mainly because we were all so isolated. This was especially true on the Peninsula because transportation was minimal.

I think that during the 1880s and 1890s, there were only about 30 farms in the whole of North Saanich. There was no electricity and heat was provided by wood fires.

How would you sum up Christmas in those days?

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SEASIDE TIMES | december 2012

Life was simpler and people more caring, despite their hardships. It also always seemed to snow which brought a rare beauty to the landscape. Inevitably, the true spirit of Christmas came through.

Julia Glendinning grew up on the Glendinning homestead in the Blenkinsop valley. A road in that area today bears the name of her pioneer father.

Valerie Green is an author/historian and can be reached at valgee@shaw.ca.

How Do You Want to be Remembered?

The Trusted Name In

real esTaTe

by Pene Beavan Horton If there is one thing, one word, you'd like people to remember you for, what would it be?

Not an obituary, as such, but something that sums up what you’ve tried to do with your life, who you’ve become.

If you do this early enough you can work towards becoming the person you want to be. If it’s later than you’d like, you can at least look back over your shoulder and see where you shored up your belief system, and perhaps where you left it behind. Whatever – it should never be too late to realign yourself with the person you want to become.

I’ll start with myself since I know myself best, and then hope that you will think about yourself, and what you’d like family and friends to know and feel about you.

Ever since I can remember, it has been important to me to not hurt anyone, to help people feel safe with me. No cruel and cutting remarks, no making people feel unwelcome or stupid or fearful. No unkindness.

The thesaurus defines "kind" as: caring, sympathetic, gentle, thoughtful, compassionate, benevolent, kind-hearted, humane, considerate, benign, humanitarian, and kindly. Generous, agreeable, courteous and loving … a list of 16 attributes to try to live up to, which would all contribute to loving our neighbour as our self.

I believe it is worth spending a lifetime trying to internalize and externalize even half of these qualities … even if we fail, and I’m sorry to say, I do fail, I

have failed; even if we fail, it’s worth trying to live up to them.

I believe that for many of us it can take a lifetime of daily awareness to become selfless, when you really think about what this means. But in the end I’d like to be remembered as someone who was kind to people.

I’m working on it and, for the most part, succeeding.

But I have more to do before I reach being 100% kind in my thoughts, words and actions.

Gay Helmsing – RealtoR® 250-360-7387 ghelmsing@gmail.com My family joins me in wishing every one of you peace, happiness and the joy of sharing with family and friends. ~ Gay

After I’d written this, I read one of Anne Perry’s Letters from the Highlands.

In it she says: “Again, it comes to looking forward, not backwards, where we want to go to, not where we have been. If I continue on this path, is it going to lead to my 'promised land,' or into my becoming someone I don’t really want to be? Am I becoming honest, merciful, brave, gentle, and generous? That is who I want to be.”

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It’s important to know who we want to be, and one way to figure it out is to think about how we want to be remembered.

I read about another famous author, George MacDonald, much loved by C.S. Lewis. At the end of his long life, MacDonald prayed: “God be with us here and there … that is all.”

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When you think of it, that is enough … but I like Wallace Beery’s epitaph too: "No Man Is Indispensable … But Some Are Irreplaceable."

It would be very sweet to think that this is how your family and friends will remember you.

One word: Irreplaceable.

Since 1936 250-656-4621 930 Ardmore Drive, North Saanich www.seasidetimes.ca | december 2012

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Vancouver Island Leads Charge in Tree-Free Bathroom Tissue Vancouver Islanders can now make a more environmentally-friendly choice in their bathrooms thanks to a local company that has launched the first bathroom tissue containing no tree material. Silk’n Soft bathroom tissue, which arrived for the first time in Canada on shelves at most Island retailers recently, is made primarily from bamboo.

More than 27,000 trees are cut down worldwide everyday to make toilet paper. These trees take decades to grow before they are harvested, while bamboo is the world’s fastest growing, renewable and sustainable plant. Bamboo can grow up to 75 centimetres per day and produces eco-friendly, durable, yet soft bathroom tissue which is fragrance-free and biodegradable.

“We all know bathroom tissue is a staple in every household so we wanted to find a more sustainable option for our market,” said James Legh, partner, True Earth Paper Corporation. “This is the first of its kind in Canada, but many countries such as Australia, Sweden and New Zealand already have bamboo bathroom tissue available to their consumers.”

Welcome

Products made from bamboo are remarkably soft thanks to the short fiber length and lack of chemicals needed in production. Growing bamboo is beneficial to the climate, as a hectare of bamboo produces up to 35% more oxygen than a similar area of hardwood tree and absorbs four times as much carbon. Bamboo naturally contains an antibacterial agent called bamboo kin that reduces the growth of bacteria. This makes bamboo products appealing to people with allergies.

The bamboo in Silk’n Soft is sourced from Jiangxi, China and manufactured near Shanghai. Silk’n Soft is made of 70% bamboo and 30% cotton. The cotton used is diverted from landfills as it is the leftover lint that cannot be used in cloth. Despite being imported to Canada, the product has a smaller carbon footprint than the current deforestation practices for toilet paper production in North America.

Silk’n Soft is available throughout Vancouver Island at Thrifty Foods, Quality Foods, Country Grocer, Western Foods, Market on Yates, Market on Millstream, Oxford Foods, Peppers Foods, Village Food Markets and Wellburns Food Market. For more information, visit www.silknsoft.ca.

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SEASIDE TIMES | december 2012

weatherwit

December Weather Forecast

by Steve Sakiyama “With the wain comes the umbwellas!” Clem Fudd (Elmer Fudd’s meteorologist brother).

Ah, the simple umbrella – our constant companion here on the coast that keeps us sheltered from rain, winds and blazing sun. In my younger years I even tried to use one as a parachute. Standing at the top of our front door steps with an open umbrella high over my head in the classic Mary Poppins pose, I hopped out over the garden bushes to break my fall in the highly unlikely event that the experiment did not work.

“FFffwump.”

Undaunted, in a stroke of convoluted brilliance, I repeated the experiment with two umbrellas – holding each with outstretched arms and then leaping upwards, thinking that the extra lift on takeoff would help bring me gently floating into the broken bushes below.

“Eat your heart out Mary Poppins … FFffwump.”

As you could have guessed, the experiment ended abruptly at two umbrellas, although while sitting in the weeds and looking skyward the thought of using a patio umbrella flashed through my mind. Incidentally, years later when I received an engineering degree, my mother cried tears of pride mixed with tears of relief, knowing that I now had the smarts never to do anything like that again.

Speaking of things floating through the air, on rare occasions in Victoria it snows. Snow is made up of ice crystals which are an amazing feat of complex engineering. When water droplets freeze they can create intricate, crystalline shapes that scientists call “habits.”

Depending on the temperature and relative humidity under which they form, these habits can include sixsided plates, pencil-like hexagonal columns, needles or the magnificent six-pointed star with fernlike branches called the dendrite snowflake. Incredibly, dendrites have a near-infinite number of crystalline arrangements, so it is safe to assume that the design of each one is unique (although nobody has examined each one to prove this).

Sometimes, when it is just warm enough to melt their edges, they stick together and fall as large clumps – perfect for chasing and catching in our open mouths.

Will snow float down on us this December? Experts were earlier predicting an El Niño influenced winter, which can mean warmer and drier conditions here on the South Island – not a good combination for snow lovers.

However, El Niño has fizzled and is now La Nada, so I’ll take a leap and say the outlook for December reflects a more “neutral” situation. Long range forecasts show no strong preference for warmer or cooler temperatures (so “average” sounds good for the month), and a sprinkling of bias toward drier-than-normal conditions.

Since December’s special day is Christmas, my sentimental forecast for the night of the 25th is a quiet fall of dendrite snowflakes – nature’s perfectly engineered parachutes that deliver glimmers of hope to those of us who have tried to fly but are now sitting in the weeds. Go outside, look up and enjoy the gentle choreography of these ice crystal “starsof-wonder” as they float down out of the quiet darkness. ~ Weatherwit.

Questions, comments or umbrellas? Email weatherwit@gmail.com or visit my blog at www.weatherwit.wordpress.com.

www.seasidetimes.ca | december 2012

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Shaw Pet & Equine Hospitals Welcomes Dr. Fallon McGinty

From Our Home to Yours…

Season’s Greetings!

Fallon graduated from the Washington State University College of Veterinary Medicine and was a member of the Veterinary Honour Society.

Fallon offers both mobile and in-hospital equine services and treatment. For a limited time, her veterinary services are being offered to new clients at a reduced, introductory rate.

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

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

To receive a 25% off discount on Dr. McGinty’s equine services, please call the Central Saanich Animal Hospital at 250-652-4312 and mention this ad. *offer valid until Dec. 31, 2012

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SEASIDE TIMES | december 2012

veterinary voice

Who's Hyper Now?

More information can be found at www.breadnervet.com.

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7 9 5 1 8 4 2 6 3

Exceedingly Evil

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Hardly Simple

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Many people choose the alternative of treating their cat twice daily with a medication that reduces production of the thyroid hormone. Blood tests are used following treatment to ensure the pet is stabilized, then annual to semi-annual testing is recommended to maintain medication. There is much to discuss with regards to this disease, and this needs

Wishing all of you a calm and happy holiday season!

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Our goal is to return the thyroid hormone levels to normal. The tumour can be destroyed through the use of radioactive iodine treatment, and this effects a cure. Cats need to be housed for a week in a special facility in order to recover the radioactive iodine before being released back to their family.

So, we don’t have a choice in who gets hyperthyroidism, but we do have a choice whether we want to get hyper about it, or simply support our pets through it with the help of our veterinarians.

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Diagnosis is made through physical examination by your veterinarian, blood tests, blood pressure measures and sometimes cardiac ultrasound to assess heart health.

Once the thyroid hormone is determined to be elevated, best treatment plans can be chosen for your cat.

Dogs are less likely to have hyperthyroidism, but when they do, it is generally due to a more aggressive tumour of the thyroid gland. Symptoms are similar to cats, and a mass is often palpable in the neck area.

Surgery and radiation treatment are generally required to effectively treat this condition. At present, radiation therapy can only be obtained in Washington, and requires time and commitment from the family.

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Cats are by far the most common to have hyperthyroidism as they age. A small tumour grows inside the thyroid gland, and produces too much hormone. Sometimes we can see a busy, active senior cat. Most commonly the signs are more subtle. They include rapid heart rate, leading to heart failure, weight loss (both fat and muscle), high blood pressure, detached retinas, kidney failure, behavioural changes such as not using the litter box reliably, restlessness and increased activity. Many times the symptoms go along silently until advanced stages or complications arise.

A new treatment has been developed to manage hyperthyroidism in cats that involves an iodinerestricted diet. This can be very effective, especially if you have only one cat who resides indoors. The individual needs to eat this diet only, and no mice, birds or other forms of dietary supplementation.

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Hyperthyroidism occurs in animals as well as humans. The thyroid gland regulates metabolism, and hyper means it is overactive.

to be done on a personal basis with your veterinarian.

5 3 9 8 4 1 7 2 6

Just when you were hoping the frenzy around Christmas would be over and you could relax, your vet informs you that your cat is hyperthyroid. Hyper-what?

by Dr. Shelley Breadner

Sidney ’s Pet Centre

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#4-9769 Fifth St., Sidney 250-656-3314 www. sidneypetcentre.com www.seasidetimes.ca | december 2012

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What’s Happening – December 2012 Tuesday Evenings Saanich Peninsula Toastmasters Meeting

December 7-9

Peninsula Singers Present A Christmas to Remember

December 12, 13

Vancouver Island Regional Libray Sidney, 7:30 p.m.

250-544-1819, maryjackson@shaw.ca

Mary Winspear Centre, Sidney Dec. 7th & 8th @ 7:30 p.m.

Dec. 9th @ 2 p.m.

250-656-0275, www.marywinspear.ca

Mary Winspear Centre, Sidney, Activity Room 2 Wednesday 11 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Thursday 12 p.m. - 7 p.m.

250-656-0275, www.marywinspear.ca

Toastmasters has a specific structure that provides a safe forum for speaking while giving encouragement and support. It is a program designed to broaden our abilities and comfort in public speaking. If you are looking for an enjoyable, challenging and rewarding experience, please come out to one of our meetings.

Until January 3 Christmas Tree Festival Mary Winspear Centre, Sidney The Sidney Business Association is happy to present its annual Christmas Tree Festival.

Decorated trees will be on display in the Mary Winspear Centre througout the holiday season.

Donations go to the local food bank. Come by the Centre to vote for your favourite tree!

December 2

Wreathmaking (Drop-In Event) All Ages Elk/Beaver Lake Regional Park, (Saanich), 11 a.m. - 3 p.m.

250-478-3344, www.crd.bc.ca/parks Join CRD Regional Parks’ naturalists to make a festive wreath. We will supply materials and instructions – you supply the creativity! Food and monetary donations welcome. Suggested minimum donation $5/wreath (proceeds to a local food bank). Meet at the Beaver Lake Nature Centre off the main parking lot. Wheelchair accessible.

December 3

Companions of the Quaich "Highland Fling" Sidney Pier Hotel & Spa, 7 p.m.

250-658-1109, wuhrer@shaw.ca The Highlands include most of Scotland and thus its malts vary greatly in character.

Generalizations about Highland region whiskies are less valid, as its whiskies will range from dry to sweet and some have a touch of smoke and peat. This dinner tasting will feature whiskies from each cardinal compass point and include a Private Reserve bottled from a hogshead for the Calgary and Victoria Chapters of the Companions of the Quaich. Three-course dinner, four whisky tastings: members $60, guests $70, dinner only (designated drivers) $50.

This will be a concert to remember throughout the holiday season and beyond. Collectively, the Singers will throw their hearts and souls into an eclectic repertoire ranging from the lovely “Let There Be Peace on Earth” to a hilarious and entirely disrespectful version of Tchaikovsky’s “Nutcracker March.” Traditional tunes and new arrangements will be on deck. Tickets: adults $22; children $11 available through the Mary Winspear Centre box office. Proceeds to the Saanich Peninsula Hospital Foundation’s Music Therapy Program.

Non-perishable donations to the Sidney Food Bank gratefully accepted. For more information visit www.PeninsulaSingers.ca.

December 8, 9

Last Chance Christmas Craft Fair Mary Winspear Centre, Sidney Dec 8th 10 a.m. - 5 p.m., Dec 9th 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. www.firstandlastchance.ca

Canadian Blood Services Blood Donor Clinic

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December 13

Peninsula Newcomers Luncheon Haro's Restaurant & Bar, Sidney Pier Hotel & Spa, Sidney @ 11:30 a.m. www.peninsulanewcomers.ca Just moved to the Saanich Peninsula? Why not join our club to make new friends and get to know the community! We meet for lunch on the second Thursday of every month with an invited speaker on diverse topics. Share in a variety of interests and activities organized and run by our members.

For more information, visit our website.

December 16 Eat, Create & Take

Come and enjoy a day with family and friends at the Mary Winspear Center! Nestled in the quaint oceanside town of Sidney, discover the perfect place to indulge in an exceptional Christmas shopping experience with over 25 categories of unique West Coast hand-crafted items to choose from! Pay one - return for free both days.

Adults and seniors, $3; children under 12 free.

Tickets available only at the door.

Pasta demonstration and Christmas centerpiece creation. Enjoy the mild spice red pepper pasta with shrimp and vegetables. All floral supplies included. Limit 10 people; $45 each.

Pre-pay and reserve your spot.

December 9

December 22

Victoria Royals at The Butchart Gardens

Snowdon House, 1890 Mills Road, North Saanich, 12 - 4 p.m.

250-658-3419 • www.snowdonhouse.ca

Vox Humana Choir Presents A Child's Christmas in Wales

The Butchart Gardens 800 Benvenuto Ave, Central Saanich 2 - 4 p.m.

250-652-4422, www.butchartgardens.com

St. Mary's Anglican Church 1973 Cultra Avenue, Saanichton www.voxhumanachoir.ca

This is your chance to skate with the players.

Come meet the team, get autographs and be sure to bring your camera.

A Vox Humana tradition. Dylan Thomas' timeless tale read by Welshman Melville Jones and accompanied by carols. Best enjoyed with family and friends! Tickets $20, $15 (65+), free (25 & under). Available at Long & McQuade Music, Tanner's Books, St. Mary's Anglican Church, and online at above website.

December 10 Stories at Fern

1831 Fern Street, Victoria Doors open @ 7:15 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).

For details on other events happening in your community, visit www.mypeninsula.ca

8th Annual Saanichton Community Christmas: A Peninsula Family Tradition by Rudolph Reindeer The Saanichton Village Association (SVA), in partnership with the Peninsula Celebrations Society and Seaside Times, invites you to join in the fun and festivities of the 8th Annual Community Christmas & Craft Fair event held on Saturday, December 8th. This seasonally spirited event has continued to grow each year to include: The Christmas Tree Trail, horse and carriage rides, The Grinch along with other characters, live music, and of course … The Pancake Breakfast with Santa hosted at St. Mary’s church on the corner of Cultra Avenue and East Saanich Road. This year we’ve added 12 local craft artisans so you can do some Christmas shopping with the family!

The event engages everyone, young and old, and is a chance to bring the community together over complimentary coffee, tea, hot chocolate and mulled cider which is served at various places throughout the Saanichton Village, along with some fabulous cookies and treats. Food donations are collected during the event on behalf of the Sidney Lions Food bank.

The Saanichton Village Association proudly hosts this annual social event. "We’ve put in a lot of years creating a child-friendly Christmas Tree Trail that gets people out of their cars for a walk around the village so they can discover local people and places they didn’t know existed," notes Jan Carroll, president of the SVA. The community Christmas event goes from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. The event kicks off at St. Mary’s Church with the Pancake Breakfast hosted by the Central Saanich

Prism

December 15th @ 7:30 p.m.

Classic Rock – The Stuff of Legends The band rocks with an energy matched only by their exciting showmanship. Michael Wood Band opens for Prism.

Tickets $33 + hst

Lions (9 to 11 a.m.), with Santa! The Christmas Tree Trail starts at 10 a.m. (early trail goers welcome) and Brad Prevedoros starts off the live music line-up with various musicians playing at Fresh Cup from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Come out and support this wonderful community event … and don’t forget to start the day off with a "flapjack with Santa." For more information on the event visit www.saanichtonvillage.ca.

Snowdon House Gourmet & Gifts Stationery Products • Gourmet Foods • Soups Gourmet & Gluten-Free Pasta • Homemade Vinegar “It’s a Wrap” Specialty Goods Packaging Bath Treats … and so much more!

The Perfect Gift For Everyone on Your List!

Studio open Tuesday - Saturday 10-5

1890 Mills Road, North Saanich Laura Waters 250.658.3419 • www.snowdonhouse.ca

Cinderella

Dec. 26 - 28th @ 7:30 p.m.

Dec. 29th - 31st @ 2 p.m.

A Peninsula Players Christmas Pantomime Traditional fun for all ages, filled with humour, music and audience participation.

Tickets $18 adults $15 Seniors & students (+hst)

250-656-0275 • For more shows & events visit www.marywinspea r.ca SEASIDE TIMES | december 2012 | www.seasidetimes.ca

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Sudoku Puzzles 5 6

Hardly Simple

3 8 9 3 7 5

8

Exceedingly Evil

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9

2 7

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Puzzle by websudoku.com

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Keep Your Brain Healthy

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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 49

Zais Astrology – December 2012

by Heather Zais (heather_zais@telus.net) Aries (march 21 - april 19) Your urge for freedom of movement is highlighted. Coordinate travel plans to benefit business and personal areas. A little time out gives you a chance to consider future directions – who will be with you – and where it's going.

Libra (september 23 - october 22) Organization is key to advancing your goals. Your mind is sharp and decisive. If one plan is not working you bring forth another one, convincing others of its merits. You become a key player in how it all will move forward.

Taurus (april 20 - may 20) The spotlight falls on joint funds or assets.

Take care of tax or real estate matters – yours or others. Look at what can be converted to cash. You have reached a turning point. Changes will benefit you financially – soon.

Scorpio (october 23 - november 21) The sun shines on your finances this month. There are more avenues open to you. Use your instincts to make the right choices. You benefit from alternate as well as unusual sources. Cash in on investments or sell some.

Gemini (may 21 - june 20) Relationships take on added importance – business or personal. Assess which one is more important to your future plans or public image. Settle any matters that could distract you from your path. Opportunities increase.

Sagittarius (november 22 - december 21) Actions you take will have positive results that boost your confidence. Others admire your "gutsy" stand and are willing to come on board with you. Your power behind the scenes is becoming more visible and reassuring.

Cancer (june 21 - july 22) Take your rightful place and "show them how it's done." Don't be shy about your talents or abilities. You have an instinct for real value and can give a convincing assessment that others understand and agree with.

Capricorn (december 22 - january 19) The past becomes a stepping stone for your future. Certain restrictions can actually give constructive direction to your goals and aspirations saving you some preparations. Influential associates will be helpful if needed.

Leo (july 23 - august 22) Plan some time out at home or abroad. In any case, you are open to new activities or adventures. Entertain or attend events that you would enjoy. Display your creative side to the amusement of others. Love or romance blossoms.

Aquarius (january 20 - february 18) Your status is in focus this month – personal or business. Take the time to investigate your options; consult with professionals if there are any grey areas to decide on. Let go of what is not working – there is renewed hope.

Virgo (august 23 - september 22) Focus on security and base of operations. Responsibilities shift between those who will be affected by any changes. Take care of endings or closure so things can move forward. Influential connections will be helpful now.

Pisces (february 19 - march 20) Your ambitions can be expanded over distance; decide on which locations would work best or how many you actually need. Make sure there are people you can count on to make it viable. Meet with each one in person.

last word

"526,085,400

– The number of kids on Kris Kringle's Christmas Eve delivery route, calculated by tech writer Philip Bump for 'The Atlantic' last year.

That's 22 million per hour, 365,000 per minute, and 6,100 per second."

(Real Simple magazine, Dec. 2012) Clearly, the existence of a Santa Claus is impossible, but millions of children worldwide believe in him anyway. Believing in Santa was, for me, the beginning of that feeling of "the Magic of Christmas." So much so that I kept on believing in him up until I was about 12 years old. That's right … 12. Yes, I should have known better. Were times simpler then? Was I just naive? Probably a little of both. The truth is, I suspected for quite some time, after discovering presents under my parents' bed that then appeared "Love Santa" on Christmas morning, but I persisted in my assertion that "he" was real, hanging onto that first feeling of Christmas magic for as long as possible.

So once we stop believing in Santa Claus, how do we hold onto the Spirit of Christmas as we get older? We grow up, we get married, we own homes and have children and life gets a lot more complicated than those first, simple days.

Having children helps – you get to share your favourite Christmas traditions, create new ones and, through them, recapture some of the magic. This year I get the pleasure of seeing my niece experience Christmas for the first time.

It's important, at this time of year when things get hectic and the true meaning of Christmas can be lost, to recapture the Magic of Christmas however we can – help out in your community, support your local shopkeepers, be kind to others, and bask in the joy of having your loved ones near.

And last but not least, believe that maybe, just maybe, Santa Claus might be real after all.

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Whether you like the stories, the features, the columns, the comics … or just the feel of a newspaper in your hand, there’s always the original – the Times Colonist.

Subscribers to the original get the next generation included.

In print, online, on your smartphone or your tablet.

Get your news and information where, when and how you want it.

timescolonist.com SEASIDE TIMES | december 2012 | www.seasidetimes.ca

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