Peninsula News Review, December 31, 2014 by Black Press Media Group

PENINSULA Washington State Ferries

Photographic year in review

The Anacortes Ferry run saw more people traveling to the U.S. from Sidney in 2014, page 2 Black Press C O M M U N I T Y

N E W S

M E D I A

Some of the News Review’s best images from the year that was, page 15

Wednesday, December 31, 2014

Looking back • Stories: News Review staff pick their top stories from 2014. Page 3 • Online: Readers clicked and we counted, giving us the top 15 stories at www. peninsulanewsreview. com. Page 5 • Photos: The best front page images from the year. Page 15 • Photos: The year by plane, car and boat. Page 3

NEWS REVIEW

Watch for breaking news at www.peninsualnewsreview.com

2014

Year in Review Rick Fell and his grandson Callum Fell take part in the annual Easter Egg Hunt at Dominion Brook Park in North Saanich. The image is one of our favourites from 2014.

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Wednesday,December December31, 31,2014 2014--PENINSULA PENINSULA NEWS NEWS REVIEW REVIEW Wednesday,

Status quo budget keeps the ferries on time Steven Heywood News staff

Washington State Ferries was shown what they termed a status quo budget proposal by that state’s governor earlier this month. That’s good news for Sidney, as it means there will be none of the ferry service reductions proposed earlier in the fall. Washington State Ferries had floated the idea of reducing the winter shutdown by another two months to save money. Lars Erickson, communications director of the Washington State Department of Transportation (WSDOT), said the governor’s budget means their department holds the line, compared to the previous fiscal year. Melissa Johnson, operations policy advisor for WSDOT and the Sidney, B.C. Terminal Manager, added that proposed budget supports the current level of service. Johnson and security

Steven Heywood/News staff

A new toll booth is under construction at the Sidney International Ferry Terminal (aka the Anacortes Ferry terminal). Washington State Ferries says a recent budget by the state’s governor means the route will continue as-is under the proposed transportation-heavy budget. manager Helmut Steele were in Sidney Dec. 15 and gave the local town council an overview of 2014 and a preview of things to come in 2015. “We have growing traffic on our special route,” Johnson said, referring to the Sidney-Anacortes route. “Since 2007, there have

been more Canadians entering the U.S. (than the other way around),” she explained. “This is vital information that people, especially legislators, need to know.” She said Washington State Ferries (WSF) is the largest ferry system in the U.S. and carried an estimated 22.8

million passengers and 10 million vehicles in the last fiscal year. Johnson said they’ve been able to welcome that many by keeping their fares comparable to those offered by the Coho Ferry and even B.C. Ferries. With 450 sailings each day (total, from Seattle, Anacortes, the San Juan Islands

and Sidney), Johnson said they provide steady employment for 1,770 people. “We’re third in the world for the number of annual passengers.” This year, Johnson said WSF will build their second new vessel, replacing some of their older vessels. None of the new vessels

(they will build a total of three) will make the Sidney to Anacortes run. Johnson said crews and ferries that do ply international waters must be specially trained and outfitted. Steele, security boss for WSF for the last 10 years, said they have pumped $38 million into security since 2004. He was quick to point out that there have been no specific threats in regard to the ferry service. That said, Steele pointed out they take security seriously and work closely with agencies like Transport Canada, the RCMP, the U.S. Coast Guard and the Washington State Patrol. Sidney, in the meantime, is expanding its international ferry terminal. A new toll booth is under construction — estimated to be done by the time the WSF service resumes on March 22, after its regular winter shutdown which commenced on Dec. 27. editor@peninsula newsreview.com

Steven Heywood/News staff

Hunter Frampton and the Peninsula Panthers ended the first half of the season on a winning note, beating the Westshore Wolves 4-3 on Dec. 21. Their next home game is Jan. 1 at 6 p.m.

Limited Memberships Remain for Sidney’s only Parent conference in February Private Fitness Club! Andrea Peacock News staff

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VICTORIA — Healthy emotional development for children and parents will be a focus of the 8th annual Vancouver Island Parent Conference. Parents, caregivers, teachers, principals, early childhood educators and more come together for a full day of learning, networking and workshops. “It’s a place where they can come and gather some new

tools and information,” said Carrol Pedersen, media relations manager for the Vancouver Island Parent Conference. The keynote speaker is Robin Grille, a psychologist and parenting educator from Australia. Grille will speak about emotional intelligence. Other speakers, including Gary Anaka and Richard Stanwick, will discuss a variety of ideas to strengthen the wellness of school and home. “The focus is school wellness,

but obviously that is something that will translate into home life as well,” said Pedersen. The Vancouver Island Parent Conference is put on by the parent advisory councils of Victoria (SD 61) and Sooke (SD 62). The conference takes place on Saturday, Feb. 7, 2015. Tickets are on sale now and are available online at vipc.ca. Tickets are $75 until Jan. 21 and $100 after that. Registration will be accepted until Feb 1, or until sold out.

2014

PENINSULA PENINSULA NEWS NEWS REVIEW REVIEW --Wednesday, Wednesday,December December31, 31,2014 2014

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Year in Review

The top stories as chosen by the editorial staff at the Peninsula News Review

t’s funny how looking back can give you a sense of the your community that just isn’t possible when you’re living day to day, following the news as it develops. That’s why the editorial staff at the Peninsula News Review looks forward to the Year in Review fea-

ture that we run at the beginning of every new year. It gives us perspective, and it makes us realize what a privilege it is to serve this remarkable community. One story of the Peninsula isn’t a single story at all, but a collection of tales of generosity. By January 15 we had already run stories about

how the North Saanich fire fighters were raising money for a needy family. Then came a piece on the success of the Toys for Tots program. But our favorite visual came in mid-January when Airport Santa Al Paterson sacrificed his signature white hair and beard in support of Victoria Hospice. This is that story.

January

2014: The year in transportation In scouring the pages of the PNR from the past year, we discovered it was a busy time for many aspects of transportation on the Saanich Peninsula. As a hub — we have an airport, ferry terminals and major highway in our area — there was plenty of action. Here’s a sample of what appeared in the pages of the News Review this year.

May 27

Steven Heywood/News staff

A Nav Canada jet made its regular inspection of Victoria International Airport’s navigational capabilities. The jet always garners attention with its low passes over Sidney.

June 20

Steven Heywood/News staff

The News Review toured the new hangar and headquarters of the 443 Maritime Helicopter Squadron at the Victoria airport.

Airport Santa helping Hospice Devon MacKenzie News staff

Santa shaved it all off this week at the Victoria International Airport. But don’t worry, the demise of the white hair and big white beard was for a good cause. Al Paterson, known to many as Air-

port Santa, shaved off his long white hair and beard on Jan. 9 in support of Victoria Hospice. Paterson works as a Commissionaire at the airport and began his role as Airport Santa in 2009, after his wife died of cancer, with the idea to raise money for Victoria Hospice (he was moonlighting as Santa Claus years

June 17

before when he was in the Royal Canadian Navy). “I like to donate to the hospice because they really do a phenomenal job,” said Paterson last Thursday. This year he has raised almost $4,000 for the Hospice.

Year in Review continues on page 5

Steven Heywood/News staff

North Saanich’s Victoria Air Maintenance completed years-long restoration work on a deHavilland Mosquito.

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Wednesday, December December 31, 31, 2014 2014 -- PENINSULA PENINSULA NEWS NEWS REVIEW REVIEW Wednesday,

EDITORIAL

Jim Parker Publisher Steven Heywood Editor Janice Marshall Production Manager Bruce Hogarth Circulation Manager

The Peninsula News Review is published by Black Press Ltd. | #103 - 9830 Second St., Sidney, B.C. V8L 3C6 | Phone: 250-656-1151 • Fax: 250-656-5526 • Web: www.peninsulanewsreview.com

OUR VIEW

Make new year count

hen the clock strikes midnight tonight amidst cheers and countdown kisses, 2014 will come to a fanfare-filled end and the promise of 2015 will be stretched out before us. New Year’s resolutions are a time-honoured tradition in North America. Like a crisp new sheet of paper or a freshly covered snowy field, the blank days that lie ahead are full of potential and it’s natural to get caught up in the excitement. We start the year off all fired-up: Run five kilometres a day before work! Cut out sugar and lose that last 10 pounds! Finally write that sure-to-be bestseller! The momentum is incredible on that first morning of the new year. But invariably, the excuses start to sneak in, the snooze button gets hit a few more times and you find yourself binging on leftover holiday chocolate in the wee hours with only the fridge light for company. It is absolutely a noble urge to want to improve one’s life, but perhaps instead of making grandiose plans to wear out a new pair of sneakers by February or radically change your diet, it might be more effective — and less defeating — to introduce smaller, more gradual changes initially. Go for a 10-minute walk on your lunch break, every day, for the first month. Make the effort to make a balanced, tasty breakfast, every day. If you’ve always wanted to write a book or learn a new language, take one small step toward that goal, every day, until it becomes a routine. Humans are creatures of habit and it’s hard to change even the most simple things, let alone to revamp a lifestyle. Instead of trying to change everything (and perhaps setting yourself up to fail), maybe you decide to plan out a gradual shift in one or two areas, to start. And when you do find yourself starting to jog on your daily walk, or finishing your first chapter, make sure you give yourself a welldeserved pat on the back. What do you think? Give us your comments by e-mail: editor@peninsulanewsreview.com or fax 250-656-5526. All letters must have a name and a telephone number for verification. The PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW is a member of the British Columbia Press Council, a self-regulatory body governing the province’s newspaper industry. The council considers complaints from the public about the conduct of member newspapers. If talking with the editor or publisher does not resolve your complaint about coverage or story treatment, you may contact the B.C. Press Council. Your written concern, with documentation, should be sent to B.C. Press Council, PO Box 1356, Ladysmith,B.C. V9G 1A9. For information, phone 888-687-2213 or go to www.bcpresscouncil.org.

2009 WINNER

2015: The year of climate adaption I

creating landscape-level fuel breaks, t’s time to look beyond the with targeted harvesting, prescribed protests and political battles burning and new silviculture around climate change that practices. dominated 2014 and look at the year It notes that bark beetle and the decade ahead. infestations and bigger, hotter From the California drought to fires are being seen across North shifting forest patterns across B.C., America, with costs there is evidence that our rising along with urban climate is changing more development. For example, rapidly. the 2011 Slave Lake Public debate consists fire in northern Alberta mainly of squabbling generated the second about the significance of largest insurance charge in human-caused greenhouse Canadian history. gas emissions, rather The costs of preparing than what can be done to are huge. The costs of prepare. not preparing could be A draft discussion paper catastrophic. from the B.C. forests Tom Fletcher Also in 2014, the B.C. ministry on wildfire B.C. Views government appointed control was released in an advisory committee December after an access to prepare for the renewal of the to information request. “Climate Columbia River Treaty with the Change Adaptation and Action Plan United States. For Wildfire Management, 2014While this 1964 the treaty has no 2024” describes the progress made end date, its flood control mandate in the province’s community forest expires in 2024. I spoke with fire prevention plan, and its goal to Deborah Harford and Jon O’Riordan, create “wildfire resilient ecosystems members of the Simon Fraser and wildfire adapted communities” University Adaptation to Climate over the next 10 years. Change Team (ACT), who, along with The final discussion paper is to be ACT senior policy author Robert released early in 2015, but the key Sandford, have written a provocative research is in. book on the treaty. They hope it will It estimates that by 2017 there will help lead to a renewed agreement be 788 million cubic metres of dead that will be a model for a changing pine in B.C. forests. Fires in these world. areas spread 2.6 times faster than “If you’re looking ahead 60 years in healthy green stands, up to 66 from 2024, there’s a lot of climate metres per minute. change projected in that period, The report calls for fuel for British Columbia and the U.S.,” management beyond community Harford said. “For the B.C. side, boundaries to stop “mega-fires” by

we’re looking at heavy precipitation and potential increase in snowmelt runoff, while in the States, you’re getting the opposite, much less snow. “There will probably be no snowpack left down there and they’re looking at the prospect of quite drastically lower flows in the summer.” The treaty, sparked by devastating floods in 1948, led to construction of three dams on the B.C. side and one at Libby, Washington that backed up Kookanusa Lake into B.C. Between that reservoir and the Arrow Lakes, 110,000 hectares of B.C. land was flooded, including orchards, dairy farms and the homes of 2,000 people. Those dams hold back spring flood water and provide for irrigation that has allowed Washington to expand its agriculture to a $5 billiona-year industry. The treaty shares the value of hydroelectric power generated by the many downstream U.S. dams such as the Grand Coulee, but it pays B.C. nothing for agricultural benefits that were achieved at the cost of B.C. farms and aboriginal territories. O’Riordan notes that climate shifts create a strategic benefit for B.C. The U.S. has no more dam capacity to exploit, and needs us more than ever, for flood protection and water supply. Tom Fletcher is legislature reporter and columnist for Black Press. tfletcher@blackpress.ca

PENINSULA PENINSULA NEWS NEWS REVIEW REVIEW -- Wednesday, Wednesday, December December 31, 31, 2014 2014

2014

Year in Review T

he natural beauty of the community was brought to our attention when, in late January, it was announced that portions of Sidney would be used as the backdrop of a TV series remake of the U.K. crime series, Broadstreet. The series, called Gracepoint, starred David Tennant (a former Dr. Who) and it brought out the whimsy in some as Dr. Who props popped up in some Sidney locations. But in case we became too complacent about our good fortune at being Sidney by the Sea, a month later a storm hit the waters outside our communities and three boats were sunk. Two others ended up beached on our shores. The images were memorable. Here is that story.

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Top 15 online stories

Devon MacKenzie/News staff

Saanich Peninsula Hospital Foundation Executive Director Karen Morgan tests out the phone in the TARDIS at Holy Cow Communications and Design in Sidney.

Gutter CleaninG • repair • Gutter Guard

Boats were torn from their moorings in Tsehum Harbour during high winds recently and washed up on shore, starting the challenge of getting them back in the water. Overnight Tuesday, Feb. 4, a storm blew up in the harbour and two vessels were sent onto the beach in front of Sidney waterfront residents. Accompanying them was a large amount of debris from another three vessels that sank. Janet Rooke, harbour master at the Tsehum Harbour Authority, says at least one derelict sailboat had sunk in the first winter storm back in November and is still out there. The two sailboats on the beach, she

continued, have been there at least once before. “Two months ago, the smaller one broke free and washed up in almost the same place,” she said. The boat was dug out and towed back into the harbour to a new mooring. The owner was notified. The larger of the two has also broken loose in the past, Rooke said, but she does not know who owns it. Despite that, she said it was returned to a mooring prior to the most recent storm. Rooke said it’s up to the boat owners to arrange to have them towed off of the beach. In the event an owner cannot be found, she said people like herself and her husband spend their own time getting the vessels upright again.

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Street Smarts

So this is the 2nd part of our 3 part series on intersections in Sidney. Those of you that are following, great. Those of you picking Thai Food up for the first time may have some issues. So… you are coming off Bevan, heading towards Beacon on Soi Coast Capital. You are stopped and Coast Capital is on your immediate right. Once you have battled for position with vehicles coming out of Safeway, Coast Capital and Mary Winspear (think outside linebacker blitzing the QB), you will have three options to take: 1. Turn right onto Beacon. Easy peasy. Problem is that’s also the lane that goes straight through - but don’t worry about that! Make you right turn and trundle on. 2. Go straight through on a green light. Easy right? Well,it can be if you don’t have someone that wants to make the first turn into Thriftys, left. This is where the rubber meets the road. If you encounter this,there is a solid yellow on their right so no one can park there. Use

IAN HEATH MARILYN BALL

Steve Price: Sidney

1. Steve Price elected Sidney’s mayor (Nov. 15) 2. Alice Finall returns as mayor of North Saanich (Nov. 15) 3. Ryan Windsor is Central Saanich’s new mayor (Nov. 15) 4. Burgers for Baby Piper (mobile edtion, Oct. 20) 5. Sea King makes emergency landing (Dec. 3) 6. Election candidates are announced on the Saanich Peninsula (Oct. 10) 7. Cyclist killed on the Pat Bay Highway (Sept. 3) 8. Starved of plastics, Syntal Products on Keating closes (Aug. 30) 9. Hartshorne for mayor (Sept. 25) 10. A friend indeed (July 25) 11. Retiring from Sidney ambulance service (Dec. 11) 12. Windsor for mayor (Sept. 17) 13. North Saanich adds amalgamation question (Oct. 7) 14. Security upped for Remembrance Day (Nov. 6) 15. Eric Dykeman, a local teen on Young Leaders Community Council (Aug. 20)

February

Steven Heywood

visits and more statistics, we have compiled a list of the top 15 stories seen online. Far and away the most viewed stories were about this past November’s municipal election — with the election of mayors in Sidney, North Saanich and Central Saanich leading the way.

that space to go around the left turning vehicle going into Thriftys, that way the traffic will continue through the intersection. Very easy to do. Lots of room there. 3.Turn left onto Beacon and head towards the highway. This one is where the problems really start. There is a green arrow there but it isn’t very, how we say, helpful. It doesn’t stay on long. If you have the green arrow… GO. Stay in your turning lane.That way the people can be turning with you from Thriftys. When the green arrow goes to the green light, if there is no one coming through… GO. BUT STAY IN YOUR TURNING LANE…! This one seems to get people all twisted up. Anyways, hope everyone has a safe holiday season and we will see you in the new year! Cheers!

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Wednesday, December December 31, 31, 2014 2014 -- PENINSULA PENINSULA Wednesday,

2014

2014: The year in transportation

Year in Review T

he peninsula sometimes feels like a place locked in time, but looking back we can see that change is always happening around us.

By March we had done stories on land swaps, groups that were working to change traffic flow patterns and proposed retail developments.

A life on track

But we were reminded that change is sometimes associated with the passing of memories and traditions. Take the story of Colleen

Jewell (March 14) She had worked at Sandown race track for 25 years. Her smile seemed a little bittersweet as she recalled her time there.

News staff

Steven Heywood/News staff

Colleen Jewell worked at the Sandown race track in its heyday. North Saanich municipal council recently approved plans for a $40 million commercial development on 12 acres of the Sandown

property. And in a plan that has been two years in the works, the grandstand and other buildings will be removed, the land cleaned up

and left to the residents to decide what to do with it. For Jewell, 83, the end of horse racing at Sandown in 2008-’09

was the end of an era — where she spent 25 years and met her husband Roy Jewell. This next phase in the life of Sandown — and the fact that most, if not all, of it will vanish — is bringing back a lot of her memories from when she worked as a trainer, breeder and tester of horses at the racetrack. The News Review met Jewell as she looked over scrapbook pages detailing some of the history and news clippings on Sandown during one of the developer’s open houses. She agreed to walk the grounds at the track and tell us about her life as a young woman, proving herself to the owners and jockeys at Sandown.

April

Retail initiative garners support Vision Matters Dr. Paul Neumann

Healthy Eyes. Doctor Delivered.

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And speaking of change... Public participation in the governance process prompted an April 16 editorial in which Sidney residents were urged to put aside the sometimes short sighted infighting that had characterized a debate over a large retail initiative. The story on that initiative served to remind us that change was inevitable, and that the public participation that is an innate part of life on the

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Viking Air continued to make aircraft for the international market. Viking was the site of a provincial funding announcement for the aviation industry.

July 17

Steven Heywood/News staff

Victoria International Airport got a new main runway during weeks of overnight paving work.

May 8

ome 50 residents and business owners have stepped up to take a more active role in the future of retail in Sidney’s downtown core. A new group called Save Our Sidney (SOS) has formed under the direction of the Sidney Tourism Improvement Group (STIG) and Steve Duck of the TIDES Group. Continued on page 7

With 57 years of cumulative experience, our professional Audiologists have been serving Oak Bay and Sidney for 20 years.

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The B.C. Aviation Museum continues its restoration work. The aircraft pictured is a Beechcraft 18, or Pac Aero Tradewind.

On page 11: A look at the year in boat travel

Capital Regional District Notice of

Arts Advisory Council Appointments The Capital Regional District is seeking individuals to serve on the Arts Advisory Council. The AAC adjudicates funding programs and provides advice to the CRD Arts Committee on issues relating to the arts in the capital region. For details and how to apply: crd.bc.ca/arts/service/arts-funding.

Corporation

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April 8

peninsula was alive and well.

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In scouring the pages of the PNR from the past year, we discovered it was a busy time for many aspects of transportation on the Saanich Peninsula. As a hub — we have an airport, ferry terminals and major highway in our area — there was plenty of action. Here’s a sample of what appeared in the pages of the News Review this year.

March

Steven Heywood

olleen Jewell says she’s not very interested in what happens on the proposed commercial land being broken off from the Sandown horse racing track in North Saanich. What she is interested in, is what will happen to the rest of the property now that its horse racing past will be torn down to make way for agricultural use. “I’m sure they’ll do what they need to do (in the proposed Sandown Commons shopping centre), but North Saanich is going to need knowledgable people to take care of the ALR land.”

NEWS REVIEW REVIEW NEWS

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PENINSULANEWS NEWSREVIEW REVIEW--Wednesday, Wednesday, December 31, 2014 PENINSULA December 31, 2014

Teachers frustrated by a lack of progress 2014 Year in Review June

evelopment and change continued to make it into the news when, in May, a major gateway project was announced in a partnership between the Town of Sidney and the Victoria Airport Authority.

May

Gateway project takes off Steven Heywood News staff

ayor Larry Cross is enthusiastic about a partnership with the Victoria Airport Authority to create a gateway to Sidney and the south Island. The Town of Sidney and the Victoria Airport Authority announced on May 1 a partnership to develop 10 acres of land next to the Pat Bay Highway. The municipality and the VAA have signed a memorandum of understanding on a proposal to develop a commercial/industrial site south of Beacon Avenue West, between the highway and Galaran Road. Cross says he wants to see a portion of the land used for a tourist information centre that will help draw travelers off the highway and into his community. “It’s to be the gateway to Sidney and the rest of the Island,” he said, noting that the proposal will go well with a planned pedestrian overpass.

ife on the peninsula sometimes feels a bit removed from the rest of the Island. The atmosphere sometimes lets us forget that we are part of a greater whole and that what happens elsewhere can and does impact our own communities. That was certainly never more true than when the B.C teachers’ union began a series of rotating strikes. That job action would escalate, keeping area schools closed well into September.

Steven Heywood News staff

his is not the way that Marilyn Hodgson wants to end her 35-year teaching career. The Grade 2/3 teacher at Kelset Elementary School in North Saanich was helping her peers hang

Kelset Elementary School teachers Rick Williams, Marilyn Hodgson and Lynne Willock erect cardboard representations of the 14.85 positions cut in School District 63 (Saanich). board due to funding constraints. “This is how my 35 years of teaching will end,” Hodgson said. “And it’s strike number four in my career.”

cardboard cutouts on the school fence during Tuesday’s walkout by teachers in School District 63 (Saanich) and in other B.C. jurisdictions. Those cutouts, she said, represent the 14.85 positions cut by the school

She said it’s a bad note to go out on but added she has never worked so hard in her career than she has in the last five years. Hodgson blames class

sizes and the number of special needs students for the increased workload. Classrooms with 30 perfect students is one thing, she said, reality is different.

Vacancy rates, business planning must be addressed Continued from page 6

They held a forum April 9 at the Mary Winspear Centre, featuring retail consultant Richard Talbot and local business owner Garry Froese. Froese, owner of In Touch Cards and Gifts on Beacon Avenue, said Sidney finds itself under siege right now from proposed commercial developments in Central Saanich (Jesken Town Centre)

and North Saanich (Sandown Commons). “Vacancy rates are high and (the Town) has no long-range business plans — only beautification,” Froese said. “There are businesses in Sidney that do not have the wherewithal to hang on for two more years.” That timeline is being touted by Talbot as the buffer between now and when the new commercial properties start

to develop. “Sidney isn’t seen as a destination shopping hub,” Froese continued. “We need to be able to attract people outside of the community ... as well as hold on to our local customers.” Froese outlined a series of actions he suggests the Town take — from improved parking and drop-off zones, to lower commercial taxes and uniform business hours. Talbot, making his

third public presentation on threats to local retail, said his hope is that the SOS group gets plenty of public support to back up the efforts of the recentlyannounced Mayor’s Task Force on Sidney’s downtown. “As a professional in this field, it would be remiss of me not to do anything,” he said. “If nothing is done, Sidney might have to downsize its downtown, like Oak Bay or Ganges.”

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Kathleen, Leisure Services Co-Ordinator, has been with us since we opened our doors in 2005.

The term “university” is used under the written consent of the Minister of Advanced Education effective April 11, 2007, having undergone a quality assessment process and been found to meet the criteria established by the minister. City University of Seattle is a not-for-profit and an Equal Opportunity institution accredited by the Northwest Commission on Colleges and Universities.

Check us out on Facebook for more info!

www.facebook.com/panoramarecreation 1885 Forest Park Dr., North Saanich 250.656.7271 www.panoramarecreation.ca

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Highlighting your your favourite favourite events events on on the the Saanich Saanich Peninsula Peninsula in in 2015 2015 Highlighting January

February

calendar of EVENTS

January

EVENTS

February

EVENTS

February is...

Heart & Stroke Month

Associate Broker inezlouden.com

250-812-7710 WEST COAST REALTY “The Professional Approach to Real Estate”™

calendar of EVENTS

April

EVENTS

April calendar 5 – Easter of April 5 – Easter Egg Hunt at Dominion Brook Park. Hosted April 5by–Peninsula Easter Celebrations Society Info.: www. peninsulacelebrations.ca April 5 – Easter Egg Hunt at Dominion Brook Park. April Rock legend Randy Bachman Hosted7by– Peninsula Celebrations Societyperforms Info.: www. inpeninsulacelebrations.ca Sidney at the Mary Winspear Centre. www. marywinspear.ca April 7 – Rock legend Randy Bachman performs April 10 at – Palm CourtWinspear Light Orchestra presents in Sidney the Mary Centre. www. Around the World in 80 Days. Details: www. marywinspear.ca marywinspear.ca April 10 – Palm Court Light Orchestra presents April Children Count, Early Childhood Around10the–World in 80 Days.AnDetails: www. Resource Fair. Brentwood Elementary School, 10 a.m. marywinspear.ca to 1 p.m. April 10 – Children Count, An Early Childhood April 14 Fair. to 30 – CACSPElementary Student Show. www.cacsp. Resource Brentwood School, 10 a.m. com for information to 1 p.m. April Day Student Show. www.cacsp. April 22 14 –toEarth 30 – CACSP com for information April 22 – Earth Day

calendar of EVENTS

Feb. 6calendar – Valdy comes of to the Mary Winspear Centre. Information: www.marywinspear.ca Feb. Victoria Valentine’s Tea and FashionCentre. Show. Feb. 14 6 ––Valdy comes to the Mary Winspear Cordova Bay United Church. www.fortheloveofafrica.ca Information: www.marywinspear.ca Feb. in B.C. Tea and Fashion Show. Feb. 914– Family – VictoriaDay Valentine’s Feb. 7 toBay9 United – Family Day celebration in Sidney. Visit Cordova Church. www.fortheloveofafrica.ca www.distinctlysidney.ca more information. Feb. 9 – Family Day inforB.C. Feb. Valentines Day! in Sidney. Visit Feb. 14 7 to– 9Happy – Family Day celebration Feb. 13-15 – Valentines 3KO Mixed Tennis www.distinctlysidney.ca for more information. Tournament. Information: panoramarecreation.ca Feb. 14 – Happy Valentines Day! Feb. – Palm Court Light Valentine Feb. 13 13-15 – Valentines 3KOOrchestra’s Mixed Tennis Diva at the Mary Winspear Centre. Info: www. Tournament. Information: panoramarecreation.ca marywinspear.ca Feb. 13 – Palm Court Light Orchestra’s Valentine Feb. – Chinese New Year Diva at19the Mary Winspear Centre. Info: www. Feb. 26 – An evening with Robert Bateman. marywinspear.ca Resthaven Foundation fundraiser at the Mary Feb. 19 –Lodge Chinese New Year Winspear Centre. www.marywinspear.ca Feb. 26 – An evening with Robert Bateman. Resthaven Lodge Foundation fundraiser at the Mary Winspear Centre. www.marywinspear.ca

INEZ LOUDEN, FRI inezlouden@telus.net

April

March

calendar of EVENTS

Jan. 1calendar – Happy New of Year! Jan. 1 – Polar Bear Swim – Lochside beach access (south Park) at noon Jan. 1of–Tulista Happy New Year! Jan. 2 – Lego exhibit at the–Sidney Museum with Jan. 1 – Polar Bear Swim Lochside beach access hundreds of Lego models. Exhibit runs until March 31 (south of Tulista Park) at noon Jan. 7 – Blood donor clinic at the Mary Winspear Jan. 2 – Lego exhibit at the Sidney Museum with Centre. Information: 1-888-2-DONATE hundreds of Lego models. Exhibit runs until March 31 Jan. 10 – Skate with Peninsula Panthers Junior B Jan. 7 – Blood donorthe clinic at the Mary Winspear hockey team. Panorama Recreation Centre Centre. Information: 1-888-2-DONATE Jan. – Sport Climbing B.C.Panthers Triple Header Jan. 10 10 &– 11 Skate with the Peninsula JunioratB The Boulders Climbing Gym in Central Saanich hockey team. Panorama Recreation Centre Jan. the Right Honourable Jan. 19 10 –& An 11evening – Sport with Climbing B.C. Triple HeaderJoe at Clark at the Mary Winspear Centre The Boulders Climbing Gym in Central Saanich Jan. Burnswith dinner Greater Joe Jan. 24 19 –– Robbie An evening the with Rightthe Honourable Victoria Police Pipe Band at the Mary Winspear Centre. Clark at the Mary Winspear Centre Information: 250-656-0275 or marywinspear.ca Jan. 24 – Robbie Burns dinner with the Greater Jan. 31Police – Extreme Hawaii Luau.Mary Panorama Rec.Centre. pool Victoria Pipe Band at the Winspear Information: 250-656-0275 or marywinspear.ca Jan. 31 – Extreme Hawaii Luau. Panorama Rec. pool

ON YOUR MEAL!

PENINSULA PENINSULA NEWS NEWS REVIEW REVIEW -- Wednesday, Wednesday,December December31, 31,2014 2014

Highlighting Highlighting your your favourite favourite events events on on the the Saanich Saanich Peninsula Peninsula in in 2015 2015

(Limit one per customer. Expires March 31, 2015)

JAN LIVE MUSIC NIGHT

NEWS REVIEW

MARK YOUR CALENDARS MARK YOUR CALENDARS

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Be part of our many special events for all ages!

Wednesday, December 31, 2014 - PENINSULA

May

7181 West Saanich Road, Brentwood Bay • 250-652-1235

calendar of EVENTS

Mon. - Fri. 9:00 a.m. - 9:00 p.m., Sat. 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m., Closed Sundays & Holidays

May

EVENTS

May &calendar June – Historical of Canadian Banknote Exhibition. Sidney Museum. www.sidneymuseum.ca May August – SidneyCanadian Summer Banknote Market – Exhibition. along May to & June – Historical Beacon Avenue, between First and Fifth every Thursday Sidney Museum. www.sidneymuseum.ca evening. Entertainment, food, gifts, fresh produce, handMay to August – Sidney Summer Market – along made crafts and more. Beacon Avenue, between First and Fifth every Thursday May 1 toEntertainment, 3 – Peninsulafood, Singers CentrehandStage evening. gifts, present fresh produce, inmade Vegas at the Mary Winspear Centre. Call 250crafts and more. 656-0275 for show times and tickets or visit www. May 1 to 3 – Peninsula Singers present Centre Stage marywinspear.ca in Vegas at the Mary Winspear Centre. Call 250May 1 to for 7 –show Youthtimes Week.and Look for events 656-0275 tickets or visitatwww. Panorama Recreation (www.panoramarecreation.ca) marywinspear.ca May Day Look for events at May 10 1 to–7Mother’s – Youth Week. May 18 – Victoria Day Panorama Recreation (www.panoramarecreation.ca) May annualDay Lobsterfest. Brentwood Bay May 30 10 ––Third Mother’s Rotary Club. Saanich Fair May 18 – Victoria DayGround. May 30 – Third annual Lobsterfest. Brentwood Bay Rotary Club. Saanich Fair Ground.

AprilDental is... Health Month 7181 West Saanich Road, Brentwood Bay • 250-652-1235

March

EVENTS

March 1 to 30 –of CACSP Small Expressions Show. calendar www.cacsp.com March savings begins (spring forward) March 81 –toDaylight 30 – CACSP Small Expressions Show. March 9 to 20 – Spring Break www.cacsp.com March Roy Forbes at the Mary(spring Winspear March 814– –Daylight savings begins forward) Centre. www.marywinspear.ca March 9 to 20 – Spring Break March St. Patrick’s March17 14––Happy Roy Forbes at the MaryDay! Winspear March 20 – First day of spring Centre. www.marywinspear.ca March 22 – Gilbert and Sullivan’s March 20 17 to – Happy St. Patrick’s Day!Iolanthe at the Mary Winspear Centre March 20 – First day of spring March Singles Tournament March 26 20 –toMens 22 –3KO Gilbert andTennis Sullivan’s Iolanthe atat Panorama Recreation Centre the Mary Winspear Centre March and3KO Savour culinary March 26 26 –– Sip Mens Singles Tennisevent. Tournament at Information: www.tidesgroup.com Panorama Recreation Centre March of theculinary Galaxy, event. film March 21 26 –– Guardians Sip and Savour presented by Panorama Recreation Centre. www. Information: www.tidesgroup.com panoramarecreation.ca March 21 – Guardians of the Galaxy, film presented by Panorama Recreation Centre. www. panoramarecreation.ca

April is Diamond Month

Christine Laurent June

F i n e J ewe lle ry & G i F ts

2432 Beacon Avenue • Sidney, B.C. • 250-656-7141 • christinelaurentjewellers.ca

calendar of EVENTS

June

EVENTS

June calendar – Brentwoodof Bay Festival – including a pancake breakfast, market with vendors, music and parade. Details: mypeninsula.ca or www.brentwoodbay.info June – Brentwood Bay Festival – including a pancake June to October – Peninsula Countryand Market breakfast, market with vendors, music parade. displays its wares in openorairwww.brentwoodbay.info at the Saanich Fairgrounds Details: mypeninsula.ca on Sasturdays. Details: www.peninsulacountrymarket. June to October – Peninsula Country Market ca displays its wares in open air at the Saanich Fairgrounds June 6 & 7 – Details: CACSP Spring Studio Tour. www.cacsp. on Sasturdays. www.peninsulacountrymarket. com for details ca June AviationSpring Museum parking sale. www. June14 6 &– 7B.C. – CACSP Studio Tour.lotwww.cacsp. bcam.net com for details June 21 ––B.C. Father’s June 14 AviationDay Museum parking lot sale. www. June 21 – Father’ s Day swim – Panorama Recreation bcam.net Centre. Visit–www.panoramarecreation.ca for schedule and June 21 Father’s Day admission information June 21 – Father’s Day swim – Panorama Recreation June Sidney Days Canada Day community Centre.30Visit– www.panoramarecreation.ca for schedule and barbecue, cake and fireworks at Beacon Park admission information June 30 – Sidney Days Canada Day community barbecue, cake and fireworks at Beacon Park

Lolly Gobble May/October is Eye Health Month!

Mon. - Fri. 9:00 a.m. - 9:00 p.m., Sat. 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m., Closed Sundays & Holidays

A-9774 Third St, Sidney ph: 778 426 2541

British Sweets Dutch Licorice e r o t ys Candy Bouquets Sidn and c l eys traditiona Novelty Candy Sugar free

Sweet shop

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Thank You for Voting Us Your Favourite Home Support Agency for 2 Years in a Row!

July

calendar of EVENTS

July

EVENTS

July and August –of Music in the Park – Pioneer calendar Park in Brentwood Bay hosts live music on Wednesday nights. Bring a picnic and blanket to enjoy the July and August – Music in the Park – Pioneer performances. Information: brentwoodbay.info Park in Brentwood Bay hosts live music on Wednesday July andBring August – Sidney Summer Sounds nights. a picnic and blanket to enjoy theat Beacon Park hosts live music on Sunday afternoons. performances. Information: brentwoodbay.info Bring a picnic and blanket to enjoy the performances. July and August – Sidney Summer Sounds at Information: peninsulacelebrations.ca Beacon Park hosts live music on Sunday afternoons. July August – Doll Extravaganza at the Sidney Bringand a picnic and blanket to enjoy the performances. Museum. www.sidneymuseum.ca Information: peninsulacelebrations.ca July – Canada July1and AugustDay – Doll Extravaganza at the Sidney July 1 – Canada Day parade on Beacon Avenue and Museum. www.sidneymuseum.ca Sidney festivitiesDay hosted by Peninsula Celebrations July 1Days – Canada Society. Information: peninsulacelebrations.ca July 1 – Canada Day parade on Beacon Avenue and July 1 –Days Annual Slegg Build-a-Boat Competition Sidney festivities hosted by Peninsula Celebrations atSociety. BeaconInformation: Park ends in peninsulacelebrations.ca a traditionally hilarious race at Glass Beach (at the foot of Beacon Avenue). July 1 – Annual Slegg Build-a-Boat Competition Information: peninsulacelebrations.ca at Beacon Park ends in a traditionally hilarious race at Glass Beach (at the foot of Beacon Avenue). Information: peninsulacelebrations.ca

See us for all of your summertime needs!

7181 West Saanich Road, Brentwood Bay • 250-652-1235 October Mon. - Fri. 9:00 a.m. - 9:00 p.m., Sat. 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m., Closed Sundays & Holidays

calendar of EVENTS

October

EVENTS

Oct. 12calendar – Thanksgiving of October 16 to 25 – Saanich Peninsula Art Sea Fest. Information cacsp.com Oct. 12 –atThanksgiving October 17 to annual Sidney Fine ArtFest. October 16 to1925––11th Saanich Peninsula Art Sea Show by the Community Arts Council of the Saanich Information at cacsp.com Peninsula. Mary Winspear Centre. Details at www. October 17 to 19 – 11th annual Sidney Fine Art sidneyfi neartshow.com Show by the Community Arts Council of the Saanich October & 25Winspear – Saanich Peninsula Peninsula.24Mary Centre. DetailsFallat Studio www. Tour – hosted by the Community Arts Council of the sidneyfineartshow.com Saanich Peninsula. Information at cacsp.com October 24 & 25 – Saanich Peninsula Fall Studio Mid Halloween at Heritage TourOctober – hosted–byEnchanted the Community Arts Council of the Acres. www.shas.ca Saanich Peninsula. Information at cacsp.com October 24 – Pumpkins on the Pier. www. Mid October – Enchanted Halloween at Heritage tidesgroup.com Acres. www.shas.ca Oct. 31 – Happy Halloween! October 24 – Pumpkins on the Pier. www. tidesgroup.com Oct. 31 – Happy Halloween!

August

calendar of EVENTS

August

EVENTS

Aug. 3calendar – B.C. Day of Early August – Yellow Wolf Powwow at the Tsartlip First Nation Central Aug. 3 – inB.C. DaySaanich August – Saanich Historical Artifacts Society’s Early August – Yellow Wolf Powwow at theBig Tsartlip Truck Show. Dates and information at www.shas.ca First Nation in Central Saanich August RacesHistorical on Beacon. DetailsSociety’s at www.Big August––Bed Saanich Artifacts resthavenfoundation.com Truck Show. Dates and information at www.shas.ca August Peninsula Flavour Trails.atVisit www. August––Saanich Bed Races on Beacon. Details www. flavourtrails.com to confi rm dates and locations resthavenfoundation.com August CommunityFlavour Picnic.Trails. For details, visit August– –Saanichton Saanich Peninsula Visit www. www.saanichtonvillage.ca flavourtrails.com to confirm dates and locations August Masters Auto Extravaganza car visit August––Torque Saanichton Community Picnic. For details, show. For information, visit www.torquemasters.ca www.saanichtonvillage.ca August Festival. www.car August––Central TorqueSaanich MastersFamily Auto Extravaganza saanichtonvillage.ca show. For information, visit www.torquemasters.ca August September First Nations, Augustand – Central Saanich –Family Festival. Inuit www.and Metis Art Show. www.marywinspear.ca saanichtonvillage.ca August and September – First Nations, Inuit and Metis Art Show. www.marywinspear.ca

Proud to Support Our Community!

September

EVENTS

Augustcalendar and September of – 148th annual Saanich Fair. Enjoy the midway, animals, crafts, live music and more. Visit saanichfair.ca for information August and September – 148th annual Saanich Sept. 7 – Labour Dayanimals, crafts, live music and Fair. Enjoy the midway, September – Back to school! Visit www.sd63.bc.ca more. Visit saanichfair.ca for information forSept. information on school start dates and times, bus 7 – Labour Day schedules and more September – Back to school! Visit www.sd63.bc.ca September 10on toschool 13 – Sidney’s Shakespeare for information start dates and times,bybusthe Sea. Outdoor theatre. www.tidesgroup.com schedules and more Mid September – Fall and by the September 10 to 13 threshing – Sidney’sweekend Shakespeare Harvest Fall Fair at Heritage Acres. For dates and Sea. Outdoor theatre. www.tidesgroup.com information visit www.shas.ca Mid September – Fall threshing weekend and Mid September SaanichAcres. Peninsula Harvest Harvest Fall Fair at–Heritage For dates andFeast atinformation the Saanichvisit Fairgrounds. Visit www.islandfarmfresh. www.shas.ca com for information on dates and tickets Mid September – Saanich Peninsula Harvest Feast September to December 23 – Artisans Show at the Saanich21Fairgrounds. Visit www.islandfarmfresh. atcom CACSP. www.cacsp.com for information on dates and tickets September 21 to December 23 – Artisans Show at CACSP. www.cacsp.com hawaii

calendar of EVENTS

November

EVENTS

Nov. 1calendar – Daylight savings of ends (fall back) Nov. 11 – Remembrance Day November – Breakfast withends Santa Nov. 1 – Daylight savings (fallhosted back)by the Peninsula Celebrations Society at the Shoal Centre Nov. 11 – Remembrance Day (10030 Resthaven Dr.) Visit peninsulacelebrations.ca for November Breakfast with Santa hosted by the information and–dates Peninsula Celebrations Society at the Shoal Centre November – Sidney Christmas parade – for (10030 Resthaven Dr.)Sparkles Visit peninsulacelebrations.ca Peninsula Celebrations Society presents the annual information and dates parade on Beacon Avenue followed by the lighted November – Sidney Christmas parade sailpast best viewed fromSparkles Port Sidney to Tulista Park.– Peninsula Celebrations Society presents the annual Visit peninsulacelebrations.ca for details. parade on Beacon Avenue followed by the lighted November Kick offfrom to Chistmas isn Sidney. sailpast best–viewed Port Sidney to TulistaForPark. dates, see www.distinctlysidney.ca Visit peninsulacelebrations.ca for details. November the Manger at the Saanich November––Christmas Kick off toinChistmas isn Sidney. For Fairgrounds. Visit saanichfair.ca for information dates, see www.distinctlysidney.ca November January Winspear Festival Novemberto–Early Christmas in the –Manger at the Saanich ofFairgrounds. Trees. www.marywinspear.ca Visit saanichfair.ca for information November to Early January – Winspear Festival of Trees. www.marywinspear.ca

December Spain

hawaii

HUNGRY?

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calendar of EVENTS

in Sidney’s

HAWAII • SPAIN • MEXICO • cANADA

December

EVENTS

December – Butchart calendar of Gardens Magic of Christmas – Christmas is a magical wonderland, including carollers, a festive brass band and an outdoor ice skating rink. December – Butchart Gardens of Christmas – Visit butchartgardens.com for moreMagic information Christmas is a magical wonderland, including carollers, December – Christmas Villageiceatskating Heritagerink. a festive brass band and inanthe outdoor Acres at 7321 Lochside Dr. (off Island View Road). Visit Visit butchartgardens.com for more information www.shas.ca for dates and times December – Christmas in the Village at Heritage December – Saanichton Christmas. Acres at 7321 Lochside Dr.Community (off Island View Road).See Visit www.saanichtonvillage.ca for more www.shas.ca for dates and times December Bears exhibit at theChristmas. Sidney See December––Teddy Saanichton Community Museum. www.sidneymuseum.ca www.saanichtonvillage.ca for more Dec. 31 – 10th annualBears First Night December – Teddy exhibitcelebration at the Sidney atMuseum. Panoramawww.sidneymuseum.ca Recreation Centre. Visit www. panoramarecreation.ca for more information Dec. 31 – 10th annual First Night celebration Dec. 6 to 14 Recreation – Hanukkah at Panorama Centre. Visit www. Dec. 25 – Christmas panoramarecreation.ca Day for more information Dec. – Boxing Day, Kwanzaa Dec.266 to 14 – Hanukkah Dec. 25 – Christmas Day Dec. 26 – Boxing Day, Kwanzaa

2306 Beacon Avenue (250) 656-2423 OPEN 7AM - 8PM DAILY BREAKFAST SERVED ALL DAY

December is Topaz Month #102-7851 East Saanich Road, Saanichton Phone: 250-652-7845 Web: peggyyelland.com

Mon. - Fri. 9:00 a.m. - 9:00 p.m., Sat. 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m., Closed Sundays & Holidays

Christine Laurent F i n e J ewe lle ry & G i F ts

2432 Beacon Avenue • Sidney, B.C. • 250-656-7141 • christinelaurentjewellers.ca

102-7851 East Saanich Road Saanichton

Phone: 250-652-7845 Web: peggyyelland.com

Rachel Temple

#209 – 2250 Oak Bay Avenue 778-433-4784 or 250-589-0010

Installations & Upgrades •Same Day Service!

250.744.0101

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Rachel Temple 11 11 years insurance experience years insurance experience

Rachel 11 years insurance experience 11 years as aasTemple valued Harbord 11 years a valued Harbordstaff staffmember member 11 years insurance experience 11 years as a valued Harbord staff member

9752 Third Street, Sidney 250-656-7176 or 250-589-0010

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6800 Veyaness Rd., Saanichton 250-652-3090 November

•Onsite Service •Pickup & Delivery

calendar of EVENTS

mexico

See us for all of your halloween needs! 7181 West Saanich Road, Brentwood Bay • 250-652-1235

September

DO IT YOURSELF

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2356 BEACON AVENUE SIDNEY • 250-656-2712 HOURS: Mon. - Fri. 8:00 am to 9:00 pm, Sat. 8:00 am to 6:00 pm, Sun. 9:00 am to 5:00 pm

Check us out on Facebook for more info!

www.facebook.com/panoramarecreation 1885 Forest Park Dr., North Saanich 250.656.7271 www.panoramarecreation.ca

Bar & Grill Mt Newton & Pat Bay Hwy . 250.652.1146

PRESENT THIS AD FOR A

20% DISCOUNT

THE VOYAGERS

FEB LIVE COMEDY NIGHT

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Volvo & IMPORT Specialists

Servicing all other makes & models as well!

7865 East Saanich Rd. located across from Thrifty’s

250.544.8899 BMW & DoMestic Vehicles Locally Owned Community Auto Repair Shop

Wednesday, December 31, 2014 - PENINSULA

NEWS REVIEW

PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW - Wednesday, December 31, 2014

www.peninsulanewsreview.com www.peninsulanewsreview.com •• A9 A9

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Home • Business To Book An Appointment Call 250-999-1569 Today! Open 7 Days a Week!

Highlighting your your favourite favourite events events on on the the Saanich Saanich Peninsula Peninsula in in 2015 2015 Highlighting January

February

calendar of EVENTS

January

EVENTS

February

EVENTS

February is...

Heart & Stroke Month

Associate Broker inezlouden.com

250-812-7710 WEST COAST REALTY “The Professional Approach to Real Estate”™

calendar of EVENTS

April

EVENTS

calendar of EVENTS

INEZ LOUDEN, FRI inezlouden@telus.net

April

March

calendar of EVENTS

ON YOUR MEAL!

PENINSULA PENINSULA NEWS NEWS REVIEW REVIEW -- Wednesday, Wednesday,December December31, 31,2014 2014

Highlighting Highlighting your your favourite favourite events events on on the the Saanich Saanich Peninsula Peninsula in in 2015 2015

(Limit one per customer. Expires March 31, 2015)

JAN LIVE MUSIC NIGHT

NEWS REVIEW

MARK YOUR CALENDARS MARK YOUR CALENDARS

A8 • www.peninsulanewsreview.com

Be part of our many special events for all ages!

Wednesday, December 31, 2014 - PENINSULA

May

7181 West Saanich Road, Brentwood Bay • 250-652-1235

calendar of EVENTS

Mon. - Fri. 9:00 a.m. - 9:00 p.m., Sat. 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m., Closed Sundays & Holidays

May

EVENTS

AprilDental is... Health Month 7181 West Saanich Road, Brentwood Bay • 250-652-1235

March

EVENTS

April is Diamond Month

Christine Laurent June

F i n e J ewe lle ry & G i F ts

2432 Beacon Avenue • Sidney, B.C. • 250-656-7141 • christinelaurentjewellers.ca

calendar of EVENTS

June

EVENTS

Lolly Gobble May/October is Eye Health Month!

Mon. - Fri. 9:00 a.m. - 9:00 p.m., Sat. 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m., Closed Sundays & Holidays

A-9774 Third St, Sidney ph: 778 426 2541

British Sweets Dutch Licorice e r o t ys Candy Bouquets Sidn and c l eys traditiona Novelty Candy Sugar free

Sweet shop

www.lollygobblesweets.com

Thank You for Voting Us Your Favourite Home Support Agency for 2 Years in a Row!

July

calendar of EVENTS

July

EVENTS

See us for all of your summertime needs!

7181 West Saanich Road, Brentwood Bay • 250-652-1235 October Mon. - Fri. 9:00 a.m. - 9:00 p.m., Sat. 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m., Closed Sundays & Holidays

calendar of EVENTS

October

EVENTS

August

calendar of EVENTS

August

EVENTS

Proud to Support Our Community!

September

EVENTS

calendar of EVENTS

November

EVENTS

December Spain

hawaii

HUNGRY?

canada

HAWAII • SPAIN • MEXICO • cANADA

calendar of EVENTS

in Sidney’s

HAWAII • SPAIN • MEXICO • cANADA

December

EVENTS

2306 Beacon Avenue (250) 656-2423 OPEN 7AM - 8PM DAILY BREAKFAST SERVED ALL DAY

December is Topaz Month #102-7851 East Saanich Road, Saanichton Phone: 250-652-7845 Web: peggyyelland.com

Mon. - Fri. 9:00 a.m. - 9:00 p.m., Sat. 9:00 a.m. - 6:00 p.m., Closed Sundays & Holidays

Christine Laurent F i n e J ewe lle ry & G i F ts

2432 Beacon Avenue • Sidney, B.C. • 250-656-7141 • christinelaurentjewellers.ca

102-7851 East Saanich Road Saanichton

Phone: 250-652-7845 Web: peggyyelland.com

Rachel Temple

#209 – 2250 Oak Bay Avenue 778-433-4784 or 250-589-0010

Installations & Upgrades •Same Day Service!

250.744.0101

hawaii

Rachel Temple

Rachel Temple 11 11 years insurance experience years insurance experience

Rachel 11 years insurance experience 11 years as aasTemple valued Harbord 11 years a valued Harbordstaff staffmember member 11 years insurance experience 11 years as a valued Harbord staff member

9752 Third Street, Sidney 250-656-7176 or 250-589-0010

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2014in Review Year

Wednesday, December December 31, 31, 2014 2014 -- PENINSULA PENINSULA NEWS NEWS REVIEW REVIEW Wednesday,

n July we had the opportunity to highlight an innovative group of First Nations members who were embarking on a vision quest journey with the aim of bringing better understanding of the First Nations culture to the Saanich Peninsula. It reminded us that the First Nations communities form a vital link to our past and an important component of our future.

July

Pulling together for better understanding Steven Heywood News staff

Members of the Tseycum First Nation in North Saanich are keeping alive the ideals of what was once known as the Vision Quest Journeys — created by aboriginal artist Roy Henry Vickers and a former RCMP officer named Ed Hill. The local community hosts the 2014 Pulling Together, which begins a multi-day canoe journey from Nanoose Bay

Collins Johnny, Elizabeth Smith, Jennifer Jones, Vivian Williams and Duncan Johnny are part of the Tseycum First Nation’s hosting group for the 2014 Pulling Together canoe journey. back home to Tseycum. Organizer Jennifer Jones says a collection of canoes and paddlers representing local first nations, police agencies and other public service groups will be taking the journey, starting on July 4. Jones and a few of her canoe team mates gathered at the Pat Bay Trading Post with the PNR to talk about the effort. Pulling Together, Jones said, helps link first nations with other people and organizations to help dispel myths and overcome stereotypes. “This is about strengthening relationships between first nations, service agen-

cies and youth,” added team member Vivian Williams (she also paddles with a canoe racing team on the Saanich Peninsula). “Our team here started back in 2007,” she said. “Pulling Together had contacted us and wanted to use our community as one of the stops on the journey. They also invited us to come along, as one of the hosts. “Chief and council here gave us the goahead.” Jones said a team was formed over two to three months — and very few of the paddlers had ever been in a canoe before. That first trip for the

Tseycum team was in a 1,300-pound dugout canoe. The experience was so rewarding for Jones that she stayed involved. These days, they have a more modern, lighter canoe and have the 15 people needed to paddle it over the nine days of the journey. Jones said youth participation is vital — not only teaching them about traditions on the water and about neighbouring nations, but to give them the skills to work with others and then pass them on to the next generation. “We want to teach youth,” Jones continued, “that they can have a positive impact from within different agencies.” The Tseycum paddlers and more than 300 people from other communities and organizations, will set off from the Snaw-Naw-As (Nanoose Bay) Nation. They will paddle all day south to the Snuneymuxw (Nanaimo) and Stz’uminus (Chemainus) nations. From there, the canoe teams visit communities in Crofton, Cowichan Bay, Malahat and back to the Saanich Peninsula.

COMMUNITY CALENDAR

Cur rent

THE NEWS REVIEW provides this community calendar free of charge, giving preference to Saanich Peninsula clubs, organizations and individuals holding nonprofit events in our readership area. Publication is not guaranteed. Calendar items should be mailed, dropped off at our office, or e-mailed to editor@ peninsulanewsreview.com.

Events

FIRST NIGHT NEW Year’s Eve Family Celebration, Dec. 31 4:45 to 9 p.m. at Panorama Rec. It’s the ninth annual First Night New Year’s Eve celebration! Enjoy family entertainment as well as numerous activities. AN INSIDER’S LOOK at Book Publishing with Ruth Linka at the Sidney/North Saanich Library. Looking to publish your book? Join publisher Ruth Linka as she shares tips on approaching a publisher, the changing role of agents, and understanding author contracts. An overview of traditional publishing in Canada and selfpublishing will also be covered. Thursday, Jan. 8, 6:30-8 p.m. Presented by the Sidney/North Saanich Library Writers Group. Drop-in or register at 250-656-0944.

Fundraisers

TREE CHIPPING BY the 676 Sidney Air Cadets. Offered Jan. 3 and 4 by donation at the cadets’ hall on DeHavilland Way. All donations go directly to the air cadets. Island View Tree Service has graciously donated their time and equipment. CENTRAL SAANICH LIONS Club annual Christmas Tree Chip. 1703 Keating Cross Road. January 2 to 5, 10 & 11, 17 & 18, 2015. 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. By donation. All funds raised will go towards supporting local organizations. Chipping Services donated by Dogwood Tree. NORTH SAANICH FIRE Department open house and tree chip Sat., Jan. 3, 2015 at the Wain Road Fire Hall. Fundraiser for local families. 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The department will also be collecting trees and bottles at the McTavish Road Fire Hall from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Jan. 3. SIDNEY LIONS CLUB annual Christmas Tree shredding at Iroquois Park, corner 5th and Ocean. Sat., Jan. 3, 2015, 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Christmas Trees Only, Donations gratefully accepted and appreciated. Sponsored by Town of Sidney Parks and Works, Bartlett Tree Experts and Peninsula Signs.

Meetings

Make recycling one of your New Year’s Resolutions. ‘Tis the perfect season to reduce, reuse and recycle. This year, help prevent recycling worker injuries by remembering to use only CRD approved blue boxes and blue bags for your holiday recycling. Flatten and cut large cardboard boxes to size, bundle them together with string or twine and get it all to the curb by 7:30 am sharp. It’s the right thing to do for the environment. And for the people who work every day to make it better. Wishing you a happy “green” holiday season. For more recycling information call the CRD Hotline at 250.360.3030 or visit www.myrecyclopedia.ca www.crd.bc.ca

MYSTERY BOOK CLUB in Sidney and area looking for new members. Meetings on the 3rd Monday each month. For more information contact Joy 250-656-4686 or joyjohn@shaw.ca. SAANICH PENINSULA TOASTMASTERS meets every Tuesday from 7:30 p.m. at the Sidney North Saanich library in the Nell Horth room. Do you want to develop better speaking skills, learn to think quickly and clearly on your feet and build strong leadership skills? Contact Gwen at 250656-3738 for more information.

REAL ESTATE Barb Ronald For all your

Real Estate needs...

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www.peninsulanewsreview.com • A11 www.peninsulanewsreview.com • A11

PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW - Wednesday, December 31, 2014 PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW - Wednesday, December 31, 2014

2014

Year in Review

In July, the Peninsula News Review paid tribute to the firefighters of Sidney with a special pullout in recognition of the department’s 100th anniversary in 2014.

July

2014: The year in transportation Here’s a sample of what appeared in the pages of the News Review this year on the water around the Saanich Peninsula.

Feb. 6

Sidney firefighters mark 100 years of service T

hey go towards places most people try to get away from. The heat, smoke and danger are not deterrents — such places are their workplace and have been for a century in the Town of Sidney and on the Saanich Peninsula. They are firefighters and their job starts with a sense of civic duty. And since most of these men and women are volunteers, their commitment to that duty is commendable. The Sidney Volunteer Fire Department was first commissioned in 1913. Funds were raised in the community for the most basic of equipment and protective gear and by 1914, the fire department was on the ground running. In August, the department celebrates its 100th anniversary, recognizing the many changes in fire fighting over a century — from technology and training to personnel and support. One hundred years brings a lot of change but one thing remains the same — the volunteers’ commitment to their community. They work to help keep it safe and are always there when the call comes in, night and day, for an emergency. The Sidney Volunteer Fire Department essentially started with almost nothing, says Brad Morrison of the Sidney Archives.

Steven Heywood/News staff

High winds and rough waters caused a few boats to break free of their moorings in Tseum Harbour. Owners and salvage operators returned most to anchor but some were broken upon the shore.

Feb. 13

Steven Heywood/News staff

Yacht owners kept the local maritime industry busy.

July 9

The view from the top of a ladder truck during the celebrations on Beacon Avenue. Morrison, Gail Petersen and Harry Nunn have created a book about the history of the local department (more on that later), gleaned from the pages of the Peninsula News Review, the department itself and the municipality’s archives. “The Sidney Board of Trade at the time (1913),” said Morrison,

“one of their first actions was to provide water for the town. Once that was done, they immediately worked to put together a fire brigade.” It officially started in 1913 but Morrison said it took another year to raise around $500 to buy hose, a hose reel and other equipment.

Capital Regional District

Hartland Landfill

New Year’s Day Closure

The Hartland Landfill Facility will be closed on New Year’s Day, Thursday, January 1, 2015. Hartland will reopen on Friday, January 2 from 9 am to 5 pm.

ive

Registered account customers will have access to the active face from 7 to 9 am. For more information, please call the CRD Hotline at 250.360.3030 or visit www.crd.bc.ca/hartland

Please make sure your load is covered and secured.

Steven Heywood/News staff

The Pulling Together Canoe Journey arrived in Sidney. Fifteen canoes made the trip from Nanoose Bay.

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A12 • • www.peninsulanewsreview.com www.peninsulanewsreview.com A12

Wednesday, December December 31, 31, 2014 2014 -- PENINSULA PENINSULA Wednesday,

2014

NEWS REVIEW REVIEW NEWS

Year in Review B Sidney Lions Food Bank keeps it fresh

y September we were once again reminded that we are, at least in part, an agricultural community. Articles about the Saanich Fair were featured, outlining the proud tradition of agricultural production on the peninsula. But some of our favourite photos involved the involvement of young people in agriculture.

September

Elder said that, contrary to popular belief, the food bank accepts donations of fresh food and not just non-perishable items. “We have the cooler storage to accept fresh food now, so it’s always nice to have people donating fresh items,” she said. Other items the food bank needs most are things like personal hygiene items (toothpaste, toilet paper, soap, etc.) “Those are things that can break a budget so those are always great donations as well,” she said. Donations can be made at the Sidney Lions Food Bank (9586 5th St.) between 8 a.m. and 2 p.m. Monday to Friday. For more information call 250-655-0679.

But the harvest on the peninsula is also about sharing the bounty with others. The story of how the residents of North Saanich came together to furnish the less fortunate among us with fresh food from their farms and gardens touched our hearts. Devon MacKenzie/News staff

Saanich Fair volunteer Rebecca Blenkin was all smiles when she spent the day with some fluffy friends.

Events Calendar January

Winspear Festival of Trees Blood Donor Clinic Whistling Fish Productions Presents: A Northern Tapestry An Evening with The Rt. Honorable Joe Clark Triple Threat Kids With Dreams Robbie Burns Dinner Election Day In Canada: When Voter Suppression Comes Calling Atlantic Crossing The Lonely - Roy Orbison Tribute Mixing It Up in the Urban Garden

19 23 & 24 24 28 30 31 31

February 4&5 6 8 9 13 20 & 21 26

Blood Donor Clinic Valdy James Keelaghan Family Day Palm Court: Valentine Diva Autism Community Training An Evening with Robert Bateman

March 13 14 20-22

QuintEssense Roy Forbes Gilbert & Sullivan: Iolanthe

Monthly Meetings/Classes • Canadian Federation of University Women - 4th Tuesday monthly • Iyengar Yoga - ongoing registration 250-656-9493 • Musical Theatre Classes - Every Tuesday (Winter/Spring Session) • NOSA - Every Wednesday Fall/Spring • Peninsula Business Women - 3rd Tuesday monthly • Peninsula Garden Club – Monthly Meetings info at www.peninsulagardenclub.ca • PROBUS - 2nd Tuesday monthly • Sidney Anglers Association - 4th Monday monthly • Sidney Shutterbugs - 1st & 3rd Thursday monthly • SPAC - 1st Monday monthly • Victoria Pilates Mat Classes - Fridays • UVic on the Peninsula – Register now 250-472-4747

at the

Winspear

1-4 7&8 17

Devon MacKenzie News staff

slew of fresh Red Jonagold apples and Swiss Chard were dropped off at the Sidney Lions Food Bank this week by the District of North Saanich. The municipality has their own edible garden at the municipal hall where they grow several varieties of vegetables and an orchard where they grow different types of apples. “We’ve been doing this for about four years,” said North Saanich Mayor Alice Finall. “In June we had lots of beautiful butter lettuce and now we have this beautiful chard and the apples,” Finall continued. “It’s wonderful to be able to provide this kind of nutritious, fresh food to people who need it.” Food Bank Administrator Bev Elder said that donations of good, fresh food (no fallen apples or overripe fresh fruit

More to come

Devon MacKenzie/News staff

Bev Elder, right, Administrator of the Sidney Lions Food Bank, and North Saanich Mayor Alice Finall show off swiss chard and fresh apples provided to the food bank by the District of North Saanich from their edible garden. like plums) make a big difference in what the food bank is able to give out. “Fresh produce is so expen-

sive to buy and getting donations like this of fresh vegetables and fruit extends someone’s food budget,” she said.

f course, no review of the past year would be complete without the civic election. Some changes were in the wind and we watched the campaigns with interest as candidates staked out their territory in the early stages of their efforts to win office. These stories and more in the PNR’s Year in Review, continue in the January 2, 2015 edition.

Victoria Regional Transit

Service Change Effective December 29, 2014

 New service to West Sidney, Bear Mountain, Westhills and Happy Valley  New 10 Royal Jubilee/Songhees routing  Revised Westshore and Saanich Peninsula community bus schedules with improved evening and weekend service For more information, go to www.bctransit.com

support by

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250-656-0275 2243 Beacon Ave., Sidney, B.C.

Transit Routes Transit Info 250·382·6161 • www.bctransit.com and Schedules

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PENINSULA NEWS REVIEW - Wednesday, Peninsula News Review Wed, Dec 31, December 2014 31, 2014

0ENINSULA .EWSĂĽ2EVIEW

COMMUNITY ANNOUNCEMENTS

$EADLINES

INFORMATION

BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES

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HAIR STYLISTS - $1000 Hiring Bonus. Full time/part time for First Choice Hair Cutters in their Victoria location. Must have hairstyling qualifications. $11/hr, benefits, paid overtime, vacation pay, 25% profit sharing, paid birthday, advanced training and advancement opportunities. For an interview call 250-360-1923

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Creative Services Graphic Designer - Full Time The Victoria News is looking for a skilled graphic designer to join our community newspaperâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s creative department. This full time position requires the successful applicant to be proďŹ cient in AdobeCS: InDesign, Photoshop, Illustrator and Acrobat on a Mac platform. Experience in digital media would be an asset. The position may require shift and weekend work. Creative design experience in graphic arts is preferred, and a portfolio is required. You are a self-starter, team player and are comfortable working in a fast-paced, deadline driven environment. We are a well-established, nationallyrecognized community newspaper group with more than 150 community, daily and urban papers located in B.C., Alberta, Washington State, Hawaii and Ohio. Those interested in applying should submit their resumĂŠ by Friday, January 9, 2015 to: Janice Marshall, Production Manager 818 Broughton St., Victoria, BC V8W 1E4 E-mail: creative@vicnews.com Fax: (250) 386-2624 All inquiries and applications will be held in the strictest conďŹ dence. We would like to thank in advance all who apply, however only those chosen for an interview will be contacted. No phone calls please.

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Wednesday, Wed, December - PENINSULA Dec31, 31,2014 2014, PeninsulaNEWS News REVIEW Review

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ALL TYPES of fencing, repairs. Reliable, on-time. Free estimates. Call 250-888-8637.

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LADY PAINTER Serving the Peninsula for over 20 yrs. Interior/exterior. Call Bernice, 250-655-1127.

GRAND XTERIOR CleaningWe clean your neighbours house. Gutters, window, roofs, de-moss. 250-380-7778.

OLD TIMER. Quality old fashioned service. Great rates. Excellent references. Call Al at 250-474-6924, 250-888-7187.

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ABBA EXTERIORS Professional gutter cleaning & repairs. Window cleaning. Roof de-mossing. Pkg discounts. WCB. (778)433-9275.

HANDYMAN SERVICES. Lawns, fences, pruning, flooring, painting, drywall, small reno’s. Mike/Chris 250-656-8961

GARDENING

HAULING AND SALVAGE $20 & Up Garbage & Garden waste removal. Senior Disc. Free estimates. 250-812-2279. CLEAN-UP SPECIAL. You load bins, size 12 yard $100 plus dump fee or we do it all. Call 250-361-6164.

ELECTRICAL (250)217-3090.ELECTRICIAN Lic.#3003. 25 yrs exp. Renos, new homes, knob & tube replace. Sr.Disc.No job too small

GUTTERS & DOWNSPOUTS (250)889-5794. DIAMOND Dave- window, gutter cleaning, roof-de-moss, gutter guards, power washing. Free est.

250-361-6193 Quality Electric Reno’s, res & comm. No job too small. Lic# 22779. KENDRA’S ELECTRICAL Co. #86952. No Job too Small. Kendra, 250-415-7991. NORTHERN SUN Electric Comm/Res. $40/hr. Work Guaranteed. Any size job. (250)888-6160. Lic#13981.

MASONRY & BRICKWORK CBS MASONRY BBB. WCB. Chimneys, fireplaces,flagstone rock, concrete, natural & veneered stone. Replace, rebuild, restore, renew! Free competitive est. www.cbsmasonry.com; Call (250)5899942, (250)294-9942.

MOVING & STORAGE

HAUL A WAYClean and green, Junk removal. Free quotes. Call (778)350-5050.

(250)858-6747. WRIGHT Bros Moving&Hauling.Free estimate $75=(2men&4tontruck)Sr Disc.

JUNK BOX- Junk Removal Company. Local guys. Low rates. Call (250)658-3944.

PAINTING

PRESSURE WASHING DRIVEWAYS, WALKWAYS, Decks, etc. Reasonable rates. 250-744-8588, Norm.

WINDOW CLEANING

GRAND XTERIOR CleaningGutter, windows, de-moss, p wash. We clean your neighbours house. 250-380-7778.

PARRY’S HAULING We haul it all - FREE estimates. Call Wes 250-812-7774.

ALFRED, ALFRED Quality Painting. Wholesale, Discounts! 50 years experience. 250-382-3694.

CLASSIFIED ADS WORK! Call 250.388.3535

PETE’S HAUL A DAY- Junk removal. Airforce guy. Call 250-888-1221.

✔

CHECK CLASSIFIEDS!

250.388.3535 or bcclassiﬁed.com

BLAINE’S WINDOW WASHING. Serving Sidney & Brentwood since 1983. Average house $35. 250-656-1475 BOB’S WINDOW Cleaning. Roof demoss, Gutters. Licensed and affordable. 250-884-7066.

www. bcclassified .com

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Local news. Local shopping. Your local paper. Read the Peninsula News Review

PENINSULA NEWS NEWS REVIEW REVIEW -- Wednesday, Wednesday,December December31, 31,2014 2014 PENINSULA

2014

www.peninsulanewsreview.com •• A15 A15 www.peninsulanewsreview.com

Year in Review

A selection of the year’s best photos taken by staff of the Peninsula News Review February 12

March 21

August 13

Devon MacKenzie/News staff

Steven Heywood/News staff

Isla Russell, reflected in a full-size mirror, tries on an outfit at Miss Bliss in Sidney as she gets ready for the Parkland Grad Fashion Show.

Cloverdale Spurs player Noel Brooks check to ensure he got the out during play at the 2014 Mosquito A baseball provincials in North Saanich.

April 16

August 27

Steven Heywood/News staff

Devon MacKenzie/News staff

Central Saanich softball player Stephanie Warwick looks intimidating.

The CFAX Santas Anonymous Bear took the ALS Ice Bucket Challenge at Mitchell Airfield.

May 7

Steven Heywood/News staff

November 19

Two boats broke away from their moorings in Tsehum Harbour Feb. 5 and ended up stranded on the beach. Another three vessels — some in disrepair — sank.

July 4

Don Denton/News staff

Stelly’s Secondary’s Alynn Dagg, left, battles for the ball during the Ryan Cup.

Steven Heywood/News staff

Bruce Easson, who suffers from Cerebral Palsy, learned how to swim for the first time at age 84. He says he did it to be able to spend time with his daughter and granddaughter, an avid swimmer.

Steven Heywood/News staff

Coen Wallace stops to smell the flowers during a Help Fill A Dream Foundation event.

www.peninsulanewsreview.com A16 • www.peninsulanewsreview.com

Wednesday, December 31, 2014 - PENINSULA

NEWS REVIEW

Grab opportunity by both hands and hold on This is a true story and it warms my heart to recall it. It concerns my husband Jim’s ancient aunt, Gertrude. New Year’s story e were parked in downtown Sidney, still sit-

11 10 9 8

ting in the car discussing the things we had to do before heading home. Jim was half-watching several elderly ladies chatting just in front of us. Suddenly he said, “You know, I think that

12 1

is my Aunt Gertrude, the one in the brown coat.” “Why don’t you get out and speak to her?” I asked “Oh” he said, “there has been a spit in the family, Mother felt that the Lang girls consid-

3 4

ered themselves better than her and, for years, they have had nothing to do with one another. Mother ran a bakery during the war, where the Lang girls considered themselves landed gentry and did nothing.”

“Oh, for Pete’s sake,” said I, opening the door and stepping out of the car. “She looks like a darling to me.” I went and stood close to her, pretending to be examining things in the store window. When the group

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broke up and the other women walked away I turned and touched her arm, saying, “Are you, by any chance Gertrude Lang?” She turned and fixing me with a cold and suspicious look, she answered, “Yes, young woman, I am, and who might you be?” I said, “My name is also Lang and I’m married to your nephew, Jim, who is sitting in that car.” At the point Jim had the car door open and was getting out” Gertrude cried out “JIM!” and she had tears in her eyes. And so they met and from then on it was a love-in as we adopted her as our very own. She had never married, no one seemed to care whether she lived or died, she was desperately poor, living in a rather dreadful two room apartment in Victoria. Jim changed much of that. She was entitled to a pension from a job she had worked at forever but hadn’t known how to access her entitlement. Jim took over her finances and suddenly she felt rich. We moved her into a lovely retirement home on Rockland avenue (a good address which seemed important to her) and began to look after her welfare. At one point she fell ill but we had moved to Vancouver because of Jim’s job. I phoned her one day and she sounded so ill both Jim and I were concerned. I went over and found her weak and exhausted. I said, “Gertrude you

Helen Lang

Over the Garden Fence are coming home with me!” She said, “Oh, my dear, I couldn’t. I have no decent clothes, not even a suitcase.” But I had spotted an old suitcase on top of her cupoard and said, “Get up, sweetie and lets get you packed, or I’m taking you with me wearing your nightie!” That got her moving. The thought of being seen in her old flannel nightdress galvanized her into action and she was soon ready to go, We kept her a month, during which time Jim revamped her finances and found her a great place to live. We bought her a winter coat, gloves and a felt hat, and moved her into a lovely home in what seemed to her to be a little piece of paradise. Once in a while you have a chance to do something good. Grab it with both hands and thank Heaven for the opportunity! Happy New Year to all of you! Helen Lang has been the Peninsula News Review’s garden columnist for more than 30 years.

New board chair at Sidney’s aquarium SIDNEY — The New Year will ring in changes to the board of the New Marine Centre Society, the governing arm of the Shaw Ocean Discovery Centre. Colleen Craig, previously the vice-chair of the Society accepted the nomination as chair, while previous chair and long serving board member Nancy Barbour moved into the role of governance committee chair. Lorelle Posten has accepted the role of vicechair. Three new members were elected to the Society and approved as board members: Dr. Casey Brant, Graham Debling and Nancy Shears. Continuing their board roles are Jane Powell (owner of Buddies Toys), Bill Cooke (former CEO of VIATEC), Chris Cowland as Treasurer (Cowland and Associates), and Martina Beck as Secretary (B.C. Ministry of Environment). — Shaw Ocean Discovery Centre