Seaside Magazine May 2022 Issue

SEA SIDE M A G A Z I N E

MAY

2022

YOUR SAANICH PENINSULA VOICE

Focus on Family NEW ADDITION ADOPTION STORY IN THE KITCHEN MOTHER'S DAY BRUNCH BEHIND THE SCENES NIȽ TU,O

Beginners ' Guide:

BACKYARD CHICKENS

Hello Open Road!

FAMILY LIVING IN AN RV

In this moment...

You need a team you can trust.

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“I can imagine no heroism greater than

motherhood.”

—Lance Conrad

Happy Mother’s Day to all the Mothers out there from the SeniorCare Group. Thank you for your enduring love, support and strength during these challenging times. You are true heroes!

info@VictoriaSeniorCare.ca

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info@SidneySeniorCare.ca

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OWNER / PUBLISHER SUE HODGSON 250.516.6489 sue@seasidemagazine.ca

EDITOR IN CHIEF ALLISON SMITH 250.813.1745 allison@seasidemagazine.ca

CREATIVE DIRECTOR LEAH-ANNE MACLEOD leahanne@seasidemagazine.ca

TOP STORIES 10

OUR ADOPTION STORY Long Journey, Wonderful Ending

24

BEHIND THE SCENES NIȽ TU,O Child and Family Services Society

13

WOMEN ON THE WATER Local Sailing Opportunities

30

FEATHERED FRIENDS A Beginners' Guide to Backyard Chickens

18

ZUCCHINI THREE WAYS A Perfect Pairing for Many Meals

69

SEASIDE HOMES Hello Open Roads!

Family Living in an RV

EDITORIAL DIRECTOR DEBORAH ROGERS deborah@seasidemagazine.ca

SALES ACCOUNT MANAGER STEVEN HALEY-BROWNING 250.217.4022 steve@seasidemagazine.ca

STAFF PHOTOGRAPHERS JANIS JEAN hello@janisjean.com AMANDA CRIBDON amanda@amandacribdon.com

THIS MONTH'S CONTRIBUTORS Katrina Archibald, Jo Barnes, Brooklyn Cribdon, Carol Davis, Colin Eaton, Tabatha Golat, Sherrin Griffin, Janice Henshaw, Jesse Holth, Paula Kully, Heather E. Love, Anne Miller, Cassidy Nunn, Coral Payne, Patricia Pearson, Deborah Rogers, Joan Saunders, Anna Savage, Liz Savage, Marita Schauch, Stephanie Staples, Whitney Welsh

P.O. BOX 2173, SIDNEY, B.C. V8L 3S6 news@seasidemagazine.ca To find Seaside Magazine near you, visit www.seasidemagazine.ca/get/ Get Seaside direct to your door; email news@seasidemagazine.ca for subscription details Seaside Magazine is printed 12 times a year by Mitchell Press. 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.

We acknowledge and thank the W̱SÁNEĆ people on whose traditional territory we live and work.

Photo by Janis Jean Photography, courtesy of District of Central Saanich

Contents MAY 2022

EVERY MONTH 8 18 20 24 27 33 36 39

First Word One Food, Three Ways The Golden Years Behind the Scenes Common Cents Little Adventures From the Kitchen Inside Out

40 43 44 46 48 52 56 63

In Fashion The Natural Path Steph's Day Out New & Noteworthy Meet Your Neighbours Living Off the Land

67 69 75 76 78 79

Screen Scene Seaside Homes West Coast Gardener Take Note Last Word Word Jumble

Arts Scene Seaside Book Club

ON THE COVER Anna & Liz Savage with pup Rupert. Photo by Janis Jean Photography (see pg 41)

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MAY 2022 YOUR SAANICH PENINSULA VOICE

Contributors

KATRINA ARCHIBALD PAGE 18

CAROL DAVIS PAGE 40

SHERRIN GRIFFIN PAGE 20

Sourcing food locally is something I'm passionate about, and not just because it's great for a community! You truly taste a difference cooking with ingredients that are local, organic or ethically raised; flavours are more true than what you may be used to. I like to share recipes with others that help them discover this!

As we approach the season of outdoor activities such as swimming, camping and extended exposure to the sun, it's important to be mindful of the products we use. Living on the West Coast we're surrounded by the beauty of nature, which is why I search for functional, fashionable clothing and skin products that are environmentally focused.

An avid pet lover my entire life, I've long suspected animals of having super powers, so I was thrilled to discover the now well-documented massive benefits that pet ownership have to offer seniors, beyond simple companionship. The right pet may just be your best prescription for longevity, and overall health and wellness.

ANNE MILLER PAGE 48

PATRICIA PEARSON PAGE 10

WHITNEY WELSH PAGE 39

What a joy it is to see our town open up again, albeit cautiously. I was intrigued to hear the enthusiasm and idea of a local artist and baker about why and how Sidney can capture headlines while at the same time, support community well-being. It involves a delicious treat – who can resist?

Families are formed in many different ways, but the one thing they all have in common is unconditional love. After a long journey, we're humbled to have added to our family through adoption.

I am grateful for the opportunity to share our adoption journey with you in this month's family edition!

Working with the volunteers at the youth clinic over the past four years has been one of the most rewarding times of my life. We wrote this piece about struggles with mental health, but meeting this group of amazing young people gives me more hope than anything I've ever done before.

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JUNE 2 to SEPT 1 THURSDAYS 5:30pm to 8:30pm MAY 2022 | SEASIDEMAGAZINE.CA 7

First Word

from the

Publisher

Sue Hodgson

I was walking one of my dogs the other day and was greeted by a client of mine, since retired but still living in the community.

With a bright, wide-eyed smile he asked: "Sue, I just love your magazine! After all these years how do you continue to come up with such great content?" I smiled back and replied: "look around us, our community has so much to offer; you just have to dig a little to uncover some of the real treasures!"

He went on to say: "Seaside has really become part of our community, a real pleasure to read and it possesses such personality.

But how do you do it? It must be so much work!" I bring this up to raise a few points about creating balance in our lives. I have a confession: I was a workaholic in my 20s. I badly wanted not only to achieve, but to overachieve: to go farther, faster and do more than anyone else. Whatever it took to get ahead in my career, that's what I spent time doing. I was really happy during those years and honestly don't regret a moment of all that hard work.

Today, I still work very hard but I have a keener appreciation for all the non-work pleasures life can bring.

When I'm away from work, I try really hard to stay away from it. Don't get me wrong: there are many 5:30 a.m. days thinking up and creating new ideas for the magazine. But the reality is, you're going to be a better, more effective person with your work if you have a more satisfying personal life.

So, I responded by saying: "I truly love what I do and I think having that passion makes all the difference; it makes it so easy, really." Maybe using the word passion sounds cliché, but I believe it's absolutely true. And how great is it that I make a living doing what I love!

I don't suggest I know it all – far from it. But it's always fascinating once in a while to look back over my career and life. What has struck me, time and time again as I recalled stories and thought of the experiences that have shaped me, is how lucky I've been. But we create our own luck, don't we?

Opportunities will come … they always do. We just need to see them, add that passion and wow, the world is our oyster!

Happy Mother’s Day to all the moms out there!

e d i s a Se Sue

Photo by Janis Jean Photography. Clothing provided and styled by Cottons and Blues. For more, visit www.cottonsandblues.com.

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Our Adoption Story Our newborn son has been turning heads in the

neighbourhood; in part because he's so darn cute, but also because I was never pregnant. Addysen is adopted. While those close to us know we've been on this journey for many years, it is a wonderful surprise to many.

Although I may have skipped the pregnancy and birth, the uncertainty and complexity of adoption have weighed heavily on our family. Our adoption journey started in 2015. After several years of "unexplained infertility" and fertility treatments, we decided to adopt. We contacted Choices, the only private adoption agency on the Island, and signed up for an information session. It wasn't a new idea for us, I'd always wanted to adopt, but we didn't expect it to be a result of infertility. As soon as we'd received the registration application package, we found out we were expecting. In October 2016 we welcomed Emma to the world.

When Emma was a year old we resumed our adoption journey. We went in with an open mind and open heart, and tried not to have any expectations. Friends who have also been on this journey advised us to be patient, but persistent.

The first step was the homestudy. We were assigned a social worker who spent hours with us, asking everything from what our early dating life was like and our personality traits to our medical 10 SEASIDEMAGAZINE.CA | MAY 2022

by Patricia Pearson | photos by Krystle Schofield history, parenting style and more. This was all documented in an 80-page profile.

Once approved, we chose to apply to both the domestic and South Africa programs. The domestic program is for birth parents in B.C. choosing to make an adoption plan for their child. The birth parents choose the adoptive parents, so there is no timeline. The children from South Africa are usually toddlers, and you essentially wait your turn, around two to three years.

We also applied to adopt a child in foster care through the Ministry of Child and Family Services. After completing the paperwork and training we learned our homestudy needed reformatting. We'd either need to pay to have it rewritten, or wait for a ministry social worker to become available. We're still waiting.

Less than a year after registering with Choices, we were notified by email that they had closed due to financial circumstances. We fought hard for answers, to understand why MCFD, which licenses and regulates adoption agencies, didn't prevent this from happening, nor put in place any safeguards or recourse for the families impacted.

There was nothing.

Several agencies in B.C. had closed in the years prior. Some families were experiencing this for the second time, and some had also endured failed fertility processes. We were devastated that a

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Finally, in January of 2021, we applied to the Adoption Centre of B.C. We paid a slightly reduced fee, updated our homestudy and completed the paperwork again. In November we were told we had a preliminary match in South Africa, and to prepare to travel in spring. A week later we were advised things had changed and we were no longer matched.

Then, on February 11, 2022 we received a call: we had been chosen by a couple in B.C. to raise their son, Addysen.

It was a Friday afternoon, and Emma had just arrived home from kindergarten.

We met Addysen's birth parents virtually the following day.

We listened carefully to their story. It simultaneously broke our hearts and filled us with great honour and joy to know they had put their trust in us to raise their precious son. They were making the ultimate sacrifice for this boy, and they were making our family whole.

Less than 24 hours later, we boarded the ferry to Tsawwassen as a family of three. We met Addysen and his birth parents, along with a social worker, in a park. We asked everything we could about Addysen and his birth family. They shared their hopes and dreams for him and we promised to fulfill them.

As Addysen's birth Dad placed him in our truck, my husband asked if one day they could sit down and share a beer together.

He said he'd like that. We hadn't expected to feel such a connection to his birth parents. It was falling into place, as it was meant to be, and we returned home as a family of four.

People always told us that the day our child was placed into our arms, all of the challenges, the disappointments, the heartbreak would no longer matter. I can say with certainty that that is the case. Although I wish the process was different, I would not change the outcome for anything.

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WOMEN on the WATER We are so privileged to live on this beautiful Peninsula

surrounded by water! Looking at the water is one thing, but have you ever stood on the shore and longed to be out there on a sailboat?

There are many local opportunities for all levels of women sailors to get out on the water.

If you are thinking of taking up this amazing sport, a good place to start is to sign up for some hands-on lessons. Many yacht clubs offer learn to sail classes, and some even cater to women sailors.

Sidney North Saanich Yacht Club (SNSYC) has a couple of options for this summer. On offer is a two-day weekend course on one of the larger club boats, focusing on the basics of sailing (how to rig a boat; how to stay safe on the water; general terminology and knots; and the fundamentals of the theory of sailing). Another course takes place on three consecutive Saturdays and is geared towards building a base of sailing knowledge. Women will go out on the smaller boats in pairs and get hands-on experience with boat handling techniques and an introduction to reading the winds and currents. Visit their website for more information (https://sidneynorthsaanichyachtclub.wildapricot.org/) or email manager@snsyc.ca If you have some sailing experience and are interested in racing, here are a few tips to get you started. SNSYC has a vibrant racing scene and skippers are usually on the lookout for new crew. Contact the Race Captain at racing-captain@snsyc.ca to get your name on the crew bank list. Be honest about your level of experience and be clear about what kind of a team you would like to join.

by Coral Payne photo by Janice Tremblay

Once you find a boat to go out on, be a good crew member.

Show up on time; be reliable (skippers love consistent and dedicated crew); be a good listener and a fast learner; remember how the skipper likes his boat rigged; be observant; and always, always bring good snacks to share.

One of the advantages of living on the West Coast is that we can race all winter long, so having the right gear is imperative. Some race days we are out on the water for five to six hours and we can get hit with all kinds of weather. Wind (hopefully), rain (pretty much guaranteed), sun (a bonus) and yes, even the odd snow flurry. The key is to layer it up and be ready for every kind of weather. A good set of thermal underwear, warm pants and a fleece jacket or wool sweater and waterproof overpants and jacket are the basics. Avoid cotton and down at all costs (they both absorb and retain water). A good windproof hat, sunscreen and a quality pair of UV protection sunglasses are also a must. Buying and maintaining a good lifejacket ensures that your safety is in your control. Non-marking, non-skid, waterproof footwear is also a must. Make sure you have water and food and snacks enough to take care of yourself – something that you can put in a pocket, hold in one hand and consume on the fly. Well hydrated and fueled up crew are the happiest and safest.

Whether you are just starting out or are itching to challenge yourself on a racing sailboat, there is room for everyone in this amazing sport. Hope to see you out on the water, my sailing sisters!

PS – if you are an avid woman racer looking for a ride – get in touch!

Coral Payne, skipper of Prairie Sun – coralpayne@shaw.ca.

MAY 2022 | SEASIDEMAGAZINE.CA 13

WITH

Peter Dolezal

Residential Real Estate – Peter Dolezal is a semi-retired Sidney resident. He offers INDEPENDENT FINANCIAL CONSULTING SERVICES to individuals, couples and companies.

To date, he has assisted more than 285 clients across Canada, principally in Greater Victoria and the Lower Mainland.

No Financial Products to Sell Leads to Truly Independent Advice.

Emerging Cautions

With Canadian average residential real estate prices up 52% in just two years, homeowners who look to home equity to support their current or future lifestyle would be foolish to ignore the possibility of a major market value reversal.

As never before, governments at all levels are focused on the politically-charged issue of housing affordability, with a patchwork of initiatives aimed at lowering the cost of housing. More provinces are implementing or increasing “foreign buyer” and “speculation” taxes. B.C. is taking a major step in introducing a “cooling off” period for home purchases.

More significant than all of these efforts to cool the real estate market is the announced resolve of the Bank of Canada to dramatically increase interest rates. These increases could easily total 2% by the end of 2022. Layered on top of the host of other Government housing-related initiatives, the torrid price increases of the past decade are likely to not only come to a screeching halt, but also reverse in many areas across Canada. While rising interest rates may indeed cool prices, they will not achieve the government’s objective of improving affordability as qualifying for mortgages will become more difficult for many – particularly first-time buyers.

Author of

The Smart Canadian WealthBuilder

(Third Edition) Included in the curriculum of several Canadian Colleges.

In B.C., with much of its housing demand driven by the steady wave of inter-provincial migration, the province is not likely to see a market collapse, though significant price adjustments are likely. Population growth and ongoing ownership affordability issues will

only add to the demand for more rental options, driving already challenging rent levels even higher.

Over the years, governments at all levels have used scattergun policy approaches in efforts to cool markets and improve affordability.

These have been largely unsuccessful and are likely to remain so unless the focus shifts to the primary issue that impacts price and affordability – namely, the critical shortage of housing supply – both for buyers and renters.

At the local level, municipalities can do much more to solve the problem of supply. They can streamline the development application process, reduce the developer’s cost of construction, and even consider a “property tax holiday” for those creating rental accommodation. The success of Langford as 2021’s most economically resilient city in B.C. should serve as a model for Councils everywhere. Zoning regulations need to allow for the highest and best use of existing properties, including broader accommodation for secondary residences and rental suites.

To accelerate the construction of rental units in particular, Provincial and Federal governments should consider targeted tax incentives for developers.

Across Canada, it is the imbalance between the supply of housing vs. demand that is the root cause of our housing affordability issue.

Until governments recognize this, and implement policies which dramatically increase supply, the average Canadian will find it no easier to afford a home – whether through ownership or rental.

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

All Bay Marine: A One-Stop Shop for All Your Boating Needs

Sidney's largest marine chandlery, All Bay Marine has been in business for over 40 years, providing boat-related supplies and advice. We have grown and evolved in connection with the maritime industry, from supplying the commercial fishing fleet to pleasure boaters and the Saanich Peninsula community.

Our shop is a welcoming place with a family feel – we always have time for advice and conversations, providing a friendly atmosphere for customers to visit. Not sure what you're looking for? Wondering what is the best product to get the job done? We are happy to help!

Our staff are boaters with a wealth of experience on the water.

With a full selection of everything you need to service and maintain your boat, whether you are a power boater, sailor or a paddler, we are here to cover all the bases. We also sell inflatable dinghies, and offer rigging and line splicing services.

We are also pleased to offer a selection of clothing and outdoor apparel by brands such as Helly Hansen and Gul. Whether you are on the water or walking along the waterfront, our outdoor wear will help you stay warm and dry. Are you planning a trip? Our marine library holds a wealth of information, with a range of books and we have the largest selection of charts for sale in Sidney.

We pride ourselves on providing a one-stop shop for all your marine needs from cleaning supplies, painting, electrical and plumbing to BBQs, crabbing, prawning and fishing supplies. We always make an effort to buy from local Canadian suppliers whenever possible– it's important to us to support local businesses and our local community here in Sidney.

Whether you have a dinghy or small boat, a large yacht, or a fishing vessel, let us welcome you in-store and provide the supplies you need.

Come visit us at 2204 Harbour Road or call 250-656-0153.

photos by Amanda Cribdon Photography

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MAY 2022 | SEASIDEMAGAZINE.CA 17

Zucchini 3 Ways

by Katrina Archibad, Executive Sous Chef, 10 Acres Restaurant photo by Janis Jean Photography

Zucchini is part of the summer squash family. At 10 Acres, we harvest around 1,000lbs of both the fruit and the flowers to use in our restaurants. We love to showcase our zucchini because it pairs so well with so many fresh ingredients, from herbs to seafood, pork and more!

In the summer, it’s easy to find locally-grown zucchini on the Saanich Peninsula both at farm stands and in store. A locally-grown zucchini will change your mind if you think they are just an average vegetable! They have sweet tender skin, a creamy texture when cooked, and the right amount of bitterness. With this delicate taste it’s important to give your zucchini lots of supporting flavours; be sure to use salt and pepper as that alone will make a world of difference!

SHRIMP-FILLED ZUCCHINI BOATS (4 boats / serves 2)

O N E F O O D , T H R E E WAY S

6 oz hand peeled baby shrimp 1/4 cup Marie Rose Sauce (store bought or make your own) 2 tbsp jarred roasted or marinated peppers, 1/4” chop 2 green onions, sliced thinly 8 cherry tomatoes, cut in half (approx. 1/2 cup) 2 medium zucchini, cut in half lengthwise salt to taste pepper to taste 1/3 cup grated gruyère or parmesan cheese olive oil

ZUCCHINI DIP (makes 1L) 2 tbsp olive oil 2 medium zucchini, sliced into strips 6 cloves garlic, roughly chopped 2 tbsp lime juice zest of two limes 1/2 a large avocado 5 tsp salt + more to adjust at the end

1 tsp black pepper 1/2 cup fresh herbs: mint, dill, cilantro – use a mix or something you already have; chop small; rough pieces are okay!

1 tsp paprika

ZUCCHINI, BASIL AND JALAPEÑO SOUP (2 servings) For full recipes visit SEASIDEMAGAZINE.CA or email us at NEWS@SEASIDEMAGAZINE.CA

1 tbsp olive oil 1 small onion or 1/2 medium onion, sliced 4 garlic cloves, minced 1 1/2 tsp salt 4 large zucchinis, 1” x 1” chop 1 1/4 cups chicken stock, other broth or water black pepper to taste 1 tsp soy sauce 75g basil (1 large bunch), sliced roughly 1 jalapeño with seeds, roughly chopped – be sure to wash your hands after!

1/4 cup cream cheese 1/2 tsp cayenne tzatziki (optional)

MAY 2022 | SEASIDEMAGAZINE.CA 19

THE GOLDEN YEARS

by Sherrin Griffin VP, Operations, Sidney SeniorCare

Pets: Offering Seniors So Much More Than Mere Companionship I had many different pets growing up: a few fish and water spiders from my backyard creek; a gerbil here and there; a cat that lasted just long enough to climb up our living room curtains; and of course the family dog, Candy, who stole all of our hearts.

Always an animal lover, I just knew that pets would be in my life forever. Of course, having your first pet as a grownup is pretty special but now, as a senior tweenie, I can confidently say that when one enters their senior years, that's when pets really shine.

When it comes to unconditional love and affection, our pets trump anyone and everyone. Whether dog, cat or even a charismatic, chatty bird, pets are a wonderful addition to any household, offering companionship, emotional comfort, security and even health benefits. Pets are natural de-stressors for us humans, and it's a well-

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documented medical fact that they have the power to reduce our stress level and blood pressure.

For seniors, especially those who live alone, pets can singlehandedly improve quality of life and well-being. Seniors can be prone to loneliness and depression; some have lost their spouse or life partner, and some have very few visitors. The utter adoration of a pet can not only greatly reduce feelings of loss and sadness, but has a wonderful natural ability to improve overall mood and make us smile. Pets also live in the here and now – they don't worry about tomorrow – which helps seniors to live more in the present rather than mourning the past. Their complete love, acceptance and desire to please us makes us feel valued and more secure in our own skins.

Taking care of a pet gives seniors purpose and the daily routine of feeding, walking and grooming a pet is healthy for seniors. Dogs and cats also encourage seniors to be more active, to get outdoors more for walks and engage in play, boosting physical activity which is linked to better cognitive health.

Researchers state that having a long-term pet companion can delay memory loss and cognitive decline. Owning a pet for over five years may help keep cognitive skills sharp as we age, according to a new study, the first of its kind, by researchers at the University of Florida, University of Michigan and Virginia Commonwealth University. The researchers found that adults aged 50 or older who had owned any kind of pet for more than five years showed slower decline in working verbal memory – including being able to recall words – over time compared to non-pet owners. The study included pets such as dogs, cats, rabbits, hamsters, birds, fish and even reptiles.

The benefits of pet therapy for seniors with Alzheimer's are also well researched. Pets help to direct the senior's attention to the animal, helping to decrease anxiety, agitation and restlessness caused by the disease. Interacting and playing with the animal releases calming endorphins. Pets' friendly and non-threatening manner enables them to help seniors with dementia be more interactive and engaged, even those who are not able to do so in social settings with other adults.

Overall, there are countless benefits to experience as a senior pet owner, with the "right" pet suited to the senior's lifestyle and abilities.

And so, while I may inwardly grumble as I put on my rainboots and jacket, I know that taking my little Roxy for her daily walk – inclement weather and all – is helping to keep me fit, physically and mentally, well into my senior years. Now, that takes companionship to a whole new level, doesn't it?

DON BELLAMY

info@donbellamy.com

DAN JURICIC

dan@juricicteam.com

jeffbryan@shaw.ca

JEFF BRYAN

islandrealestategirl@gmail.com

DENISE GALLUP

LINDSAY BORSCHNECK lindsay@lb-realestate.ca

DEBBIE GRAY

BILL TOZER

BROOKE MILLER

RON PHILLIPS

KAREN DINNIE-SMYTH

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2022 VENDOR LINE-UP Commissionaires Victoria, the Islands and Yukon Save On Foods Sidney WorkBC Centre Canadian Tire, North Saanich Holy Cow Communication Design Bosley's

DISCOVER WHAT MAKES SIDNEY THE IDEAL PLACE TO WORK!

Beacon Community Services Panorama Recreation Shaw Centre for the Salish Sea Pure Body Health Sidney Departures Travel Royal Roads University Victoria Carriage Tours Sidney Pier Hotel & Spa Tanner's Books NW Yachtworks University of Victoria Cooperative Education Program & Careers Services dgbremner & co menswear good bones ladies clothing Coast Capital Savings Credit Union Casman Projects BC Echo Echo Digital LML Cleaning Services Philbrook's Boatyard Ltd Beacon Sign and Apparel

The Sidney BIA and Beacon Community Services are excited to present the Sidney Employment Expo on May 19th, 2022, from 1:00 pm to 4:00 pm at the Mary Winspear Centre.

This modern twist on a traditional job fair is open to everyone. With food trucks, contests, live music and free ice-cream for all attendees, the event is set to be an energized and fun occasion.

Business Development Manager for the Sidney BIA, Natalie Bobrowich, has been working with Randy Waldie from Beacon Community Services on this event.

"We wanted to provide a lively and fun opportunity for job seekers to network with the 30+ employers that are hiring in Sidney from across many different industries and sectors.

Job seekers will have the chance to connect with employers, take part in a resume bootcamp and with some employers hosting instant interviews, they could potentially leave with a job that day!”

Sidney All Care Residence ETHOS Career Management Group Telus Western Coast Insurance Tim Hortons Small Gods Brewing Edwards Electric Coastal Heat Pumps

This event is open to everyone, and job seekers are encouraged to bring their resume.

For more information please go to exploresidney.ca/expo or email natalie@sidneybia.ca

We acknowledge and thank the WSÁNEĆ people on whose traditional territory we live, learn, and work.

BEHIND THE SCENES

by Deborah Rogers | photos by Janis Jean Photography

Nurturing & Strengthening First Nations Families I remember the empathetic family support worker who came to visit me when I had a three year old who wouldn't eat anything and a three month old who would not sleep. I was exhausted and convinced I couldn't cope. She listened to me, told me I was doing okay, and made small, practical suggestions. She was a voice of experience at a time when everything I was facing was brand new.

Every new parent needs a person like that to back them up with wise words and kindness. Meeting Michelle at the NIȽ TU,O Child and Family Services Society brought that memory back.

For 18 years she has been that guiding hand for new families in the community. She's part of an expert team that includes social workers, support workers and administrators.

24 SEASIDEMAGAZINE.CA | MAY 2022

We met on my tour of the NIȽ TU,O Centre. You will have driven past the beautiful building at Mount Newton Crossroad many times.

They've been there for over 20 years, but three years ago extensive renovations gave the Centre a refreshed look and created spaces within that are culturally appropriate and rooted in an Indigenous approach to safety. But what do they do behind the magnificent basket weave frontage? NIȽ TU,O Child and Family Services Society supports the seven Coast Salish First Nations to manage their own child services. As a Delegated Aboriginal Agency (DAA) they offer both delegated and non-delegated services to their clients.

These services are delegated from the Ministry of Child and Family Development and include: guardianship and care; voluntary support services; voluntary care or special needs agreements; recruitment,

training and support for caregivers; youth agreements; and respite services. As well as these delegated services they offer a wide range of support services for families and youth.

Sometimes you just know when you meet someone for the first time, that they are a force for change. Katharina Stocker, Executive Director at NIȽ TU,O didn't waste a moment of my time with her, ensuring I was fully briefed on the full range of challenges and solutions that the NIȽ TU,O Child and Family Services Society faces and presents. The Society was founded back in 1997 as a way to try to tackle the heartbreaking cycle of Indigenous children being removed from their families and placed with non-Indigenous carers.

(In Canada, 52.2% of children in foster care are Indigenous, but account for only 7.7% of the child population.) Katharina explained how discrimination and poverty are the root cause of these shocking numbers. In 2016 the Canadian Human Rights Tribunal (CHRT) found that the federal government "discriminated against First Nations children on reserve through its design, management, control and funding of child welfare services. Among the discriminatory impacts were that the federal government did not provide adequate funding for prevention services, and it incentivized placing children in care by enabling reimbursement of certain costs." At NIȽ TU,O they work with families, through a lens of Coast Salish teaching, to keep kids out of care and within their communities.

For the Indigenous population of Canada, the intergenerational trauma caused as a result of colonisation, including the impacts of the Indian Act, Residential Schools and Sixties Scoop, add a heavy load to the already difficult task of raising a family. Programs such as S.M.A.R.T., a 30-week play-based program for mothers raising toddlers, or Indigenous HIPPY (home instruction for parents of preschool youngsters), are designed to provide hands-on, resourceheavy support. With toys, books and craft supplies included, NIȽ TU,O is able to make a big difference in those vital early years, supporting bonding, literacy and joy in parenting. Having culturally appropriate materials with which to work, and a building that feels safe and welcoming, plays a big role, and one that has been Katharina's goal to achieve.

Walking around the Centre I was stuck by the considerate design featuring water, beach and forest elements. The family and play rooms are stocked with toys and books and beautiful Indigenous art features on many walls. The significant role of Elders in Indigenous society is something that NIȽ TU,O focuses on. Michelle's "Triple P" program incorporates cultural and parenting skills learned from community Elders and grandparents, and there are spaces at the Centre designed to encourage the sharing of knowledge across the generations. A small outdoor space will allow for some practical activities like wood carving, and there's a storeroom stocked with outdoor gear, used for youth activities like camping and canoeing.

Visiting NIȽ TU,O felt like a first step on a journey of learning for me, but this impressive organization has been teaching their community for years. They are reinforcing the values of mutual respect, love, patience and nurturing for their children and families, and ensuring future generations will have cultural knowledge, ambition and success.

Michelle Anderson, Family Support Worker

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COMMON CENTS

by Heather E. Love, BA CFA CFP® Portfolio Manager, Investment Advisor Odlum Brown Limited

FIT YOUR LIFESTYLE • ELEVATE YOUR EVERYDAY

THINKING ABOUT YOUR CHILD’S FUTURE? CONSIDER AN RESP Without question, we want the best for our children.

Wherever we find opportunities to give them an edge or advantage, we take them. In the early years, saving for postsecondary education can feel like a problem not yet in need of a solution. Your focus is on diapers, feeding and nap time, and it can hardly seem relevant to worry about which career your little one might pursue.

As both a Portfolio Manager and a new mother, I wish to outline the benefits of a Registered Education Savings Plan (RESP) and why it does not pay to wait.

An RESP is an investment plan to save money for post-secondary education. For each beneficiary, you can contribute up to $50,000 and receive up to $7,200 in Canada Education Savings Grants (CESG) over their lifetime. Each year, up to age 17*, each beneficiary can earn a 20% matching CESG, up to $500 (when you contribute $2,500). If you missed contributing in a given year, you can make up for unused CESG one year at a time.

The sooner you start, the sooner you can maximize your grants and investment growth. You may be eligible for additional grants based on family income and beneficiary ages, potentially further sweetening the pot.

Contributions are not tax deductible; however, investment income and grants in an RESP are tax sheltered until withdrawn.

While contributions are withdrawn tax-free, investment income and government grants are taxable to the child, typically with negligible to no tax owing.

A common question is: "What can I use the RESP funds for?"

These funds may be used toward education expenses in Canada or abroad, including tuition, books and living expenses. To access the funding, your child must be enrolled in a qualifying education program at a designated institution, including most universities, colleges and trade schools.

Another good question is: "What happens if my child does not pursue post-secondary education?" In this case, you have a number of options, but it's important to remember that even if the funds are not ultimately used for education, the value of opening an RESP early outweighs any pitfalls and your contributions are not lost.

The key message I want to impart is that starting early and contributing consistently gives you a substantial advantage with this program. Speak with your investment advisor about opening an RESP for your children. *There are additional contribution requirements for beneficiaries who are 16 or 17 years old.

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What's Happening eni en nin ing ng Steel Magnolias

May 12-14

In January of 2020 Peninsula Players held auditions for the play Steel Magnolia’s. Six talented women were cast to portray the ladies of Chinquapin, Louisiana.

The cast and crew began working through act one, building the sets, gathering props and then the theatre world went dark in the wake of the pandemic. For the first few months, the cast and crew sent messages of support to each other with pictures of magnolia trees in bloom taken on neighbourhood walks while under the stay-at-home orders. It was uncertain for so many months if we would be able to get this touching story of comfort, humour and friendship onto the stage.

In January 2022, there was a glimmer of hope. With the restrictions lifting, the original cast and crew of Steel Magnolia’s came together with cautious optimism to do a read-through of the script again and pick up where we left off two years before. We have continued rehearsing and are very excited to be able to present this play about the strong women of Chinquapin as they make their ways over life’s many hurdles, finding comfort through heartache, with laughter and unwavering friendship.

Every Saturday sees the ladies of Chinquapin, Louisiana, congregating at Truvy Jones’ beauty salon to get their hair styled and share the stories of their lives. Truvy’s anxious and eager assistant, Annelle, helps to style the hair of many neighbourhood women: Clairee Belcher, former first lady of Chinquapin and wealthy widow; Ouiser Boudreaux, the local curmudgeon; M’Lynn, a compassionate career woman and he daughter Shelby, the prettiest girl in town. The story begins with excited chatter about Shelby’s upcoming wedding and evolves through to her mother’s concern about Shelby as she faces a high risk pregnancy. As the women of Chinquapin make their ways over life’s many hurdles, they find comfort, and humour in their unwavering friendship.

Leeroy Stagger Wednesday, May 18

An alternative country singer/songwriter hailing from Victoria, British Columbia, Canada, Leeroy Stagger pens songs dealing with life's challenges and questions that are literate but down to earth. As befits an artist who got his start in punk rock, Stagger's early albums had a scrappy sound that emphasized the rock part of roots rock. But his songs became more thoughtful with time, and he developed a smoother but still emphatic approach best heard on 2010's Little Victories and 2017's Love Versus. Me and the Mountain came out in May 2019 and focused on the roots-oriented side of his musical personality, while Strange Path, which was released the following September, found him experimenting with more adventurous and personal themes along with production and arrangements that showed the influence of contemporary pop.

Upcoming Events May

Shaun Majumder

Tuesday, May 17

Shaun Majumder is an actor, writer, comedian, and social entrepreneur from the small town of Burlington, Newfoundland and Labrador, Canada.

He found early success as a Standup Comedian and host, landing his first gigs with YTV (Canada's Nickelodeon) as a host/PJ for five years, along with CBC's Just For Laughs comedy series. He continued to book small roles in Film and TV and in 2003 he Joined the cast of CBC's This Hour Has 22 minutes where he spent seventeen seasons.

His comedy roles include starring in the Sketch Comedy Series Cedric The Entertainer Presents, The Farrelly Brother's Unhitched, ABC's Married Not Dead, NBC's Nevermind Nirvana, and CBC's Hatching Matching and Dispatching.

In January 2013, Shaun’s documentary series called “Majumder Manor” debuted on the W Network in Canada, about his dream to transform his rural hometown of Burlington, Newfoundland into a high end, sustainable tourist destination.

Shaun is currently writing and developing projects for both Film and TV and is living in Los Angeles with his beautiful wife, Shelby Fenner, their two Boston Terriers and they just welcomed their brand new baby girl, Mattis Maple Majumder.

Jann Arden

1 1 2 4 5&6 6&7 7&8 12-14 17 18 19 23 27 29

Hooray for Hollywood South Island Vinyl Record Show Louisiana Hayride Grant Lawrence The Lamb Lies Down on Broadway Crafted Farmhouse Market Johnny Reid Steel Magnolias Shaun Majumder Leeroy Stagger Get Back: Music of The Beatles Blood Donor Clinic Kids With Dreams Carnival of the Animals

June 4 5 10-12 16-18 17-19 20 21 23&24 30

Lobsterfest Environmental Day Folk'n Fiddle Fest Jann Arden Anastasia Blood Donor Clinic Ron James Westshore Dance Trooper

July 1 7 22 23

Chilliwack Believe Lennon & McCartney The Return of Simon & Garfunkel

August

June 16-18

6

Whether she is captivating audiences with her heartfelt music, entertaining them with her quick wit or sharing her written word in a boldly honest voice – Arden is a Canadian original – a brilliant multi-dimensional talent.

September 9 10 23

A Springsteen Experience

Matlen Starsley Randy Hansen's Jimi Hendrix Neil Diamond & Neil Young

2243 Beacon Avenue, Sidney | 250-656-0275 | marywinspear.ca

Feathered Friends:

A Beginner’s Guide to Backyard Chickens

by Jesse Holth; photo by Amanda Cribdon Photography

With their low-

maintenance attitude, ability to produce farmfresh eggs, and lovable personalities, it's no surprise that farmers have dubbed chickens "the gateway animal" – you could soon find yourself branching out into ducks, cows, horses or other furry friends! With more people embracing the trend of backyard chickens, here are some helpful tips on how to get that process started.

Get to Know Your Bylaws. Depending on where you live, there will be certain bylaws governing what animals you can or cannot

30 SEASIDEMAGAZINE.CA | MAY 2022

keep. For example, roosters are not typically allowed on nonagricultural land, or land under a certain size. Most people who keep backyard chickens will likely start out with a few hens. Check to see if you need to register your chickens with the municipality.

There may also be bylaws around securing your chickens overnight – predators come out especially at dusk or dawn, and chickens need to be protected. Visit your local municipal website to see what restrictions you may have: in Central Saanich, you are allowed up to eight chickens or ducks on land less than 1,858 square metres; in North Saanich, you need at least 4,000 square metres. The Town of Sidney does not currently allow chickens at all (but some residents are trying to change this).

Building the Coop. Your chickens will need a little house of their own, so whether you decide to go completely DIY and build the coop yourself or get a bit of outside help, there are plenty of resources available online and through local organizations. Focus on how big the coop will need to be: how many chickens do you want? Three to five hens is a good place to start, particularly if you're just looking for some fresh eggs. "There's no one correct way to build a coop," says Matthew Smith, of the 4H Fowl Creatures Poultry Club. You can definitely get creative with it. "It doesn't have to be fancy; old playhouses from the kids can be great for chicken coops!"

If you're not feeling quite that adventurous, you can get a "chicken coop kit" from a local retailer like Buckerfield's or order one online – there are a variety of styles to choose from, and you won't have to worry about designing it from scratch.

Where to Buy Chicks. You can find chicks at your local feed store, where the staff will also be able to help answer your questions about food, water, supplies and general chicken-keeping queries. Another surprise source for chickens? UsedVictoria! "My go-to answer about where to get chicks is always UsedVictoria," says Matthew. "It sounds weird, but it's really just a classifieds website; it's a fantastic resource, and the poultry people really use it a lot for local birds," he explains.

Make sure you know whether you're getting hens or roosters. This is called getting "sexed" chickens (which sometimes costs a bit extra) and will ensure you have laying hens to provide eggs. You also don't want to end up with a rooster if the bylaws won't allow it! It's a good idea to get at least two hens so they can keep each other company.

Local resident Ashley Ruffle has kept chickens for over a decade. "We started with six chickens, when our kids were little; we really loved the idea of having fresh eggs," she explains. "We wanted the kids to have that experience." Ashley says they really had no idea what to expect, and they just jumped in headfirst. "It was a trial by fire – we got the chicks on UsedVic and had to have them under a heat lamp. We kept them in our home, and we learned quickly that they are so cute but very dusty!"

Ashley says the Facebook poultry network (Vancouver Island Backyard Chickens and Ducks) has been an invaluable resource – it's a group for people who own chickens and want to share their experiences. She also points to the 4H Fowl Creatures club that Matthew belongs to. "They are a wealth of knowledge, I can't say enough good things about that club; from kids to leaders, anything you want to know about poultry, they will be able to answer."

Additional Tips. Ashley: "If you feed scraps to your chickens, be careful it won't affect the flavour of your eggs – we learned this the hard way with things like salmon skins or onion!"

Matthew: "There are lots of predators on the Island – from racoons to minks to birds of prey – and there can be very unfortunate consequences if you're not prepared. Also consider what you will do with your chickens over the winter."

Ashley: "Your chickens will need a roosting area, somewhere up high where they can sit and perch."

Matthew: "It's important to have good relationships with your neighbours, and be transparent about what you're doing."

Resources. Small Flock Poultry Health: https://tinyurl. com/2563jh5t; BC SPCA: https://spca.bc.ca/news/backyardchickens/; District of Saanich: https://tinyurl.com/ypwsk9wp.

Happy Mother's Day Fur Mamas!

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Peninsula Patios

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No better way to celebrate the sunshine!

You've been waiting a long time, but winter's over and Patio Season is here! The food seems to taste fresher, the drinks more refreshing – dining al fresco on one of the Peninsula's fine outdoor spaces is where you'll want to be.

The Farmer's Daughter

A Parisian-style 10-seat terrace patio situated under a covered cobblestone courtyard with heaters. It is the perfect spot to enjoy a flight of wine and cheese all-year-round.

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The Surly Mermaid

It’s almost patio season in Sidney! Join us at The Surly Mermaid for all your craft beer, delicious cocktails and tasty treats!

Open 11am to 10pm daily!

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Fish on Fifth

The Marigold Cafe

250.656.4022 | 9812 Fifth St, Sidney

250.544.6359 themarigoldcafe.com 7900 Lochside Dr, Saanichton

If you’re looking for fun in the sun, the Peninsula’s favourite fish and chips restaurant is the place to be. With a great selection of fresh seafood, burgers, wraps and chowder as well as an extensive plant-based menu, Fish on Fifth is hard to beat. Come join the crew for an ice-cold shake, a frosty Phillips beer or a cone full of icy Dole whip and the most delicious comfort food in town!

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ULA PENINSICES VO PAUL ANDY D BEHINES EN THE SCPLIED AP MICS -NO OUT BIO INSIDE OFF AUTISM LIVING ND AWARENESS THE LA DE EA STABLE & FIELD ROSEM FARMS

MEET SPITFIRE STEVE! BEHIND THE SCENES GOLDEN TREASURE AT LONGVIEW FARMS

SEA

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Macaron Dreams

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MEN WATCHto

Spring Cleaning

WHERE TO START?

BACK YARD

BOUQU BAKEOFF ETS CHALLENGE HOW YARD TO USE YO ’S BO UNTY UR

CAN YOU CARROT CAKE?

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Come enjoy your favourite specialty coffee on our beautiful covered patio. Southeast facing, with sun all day and a calming water feature makes our patio the most idyllic setting to devour our delicious house-made pastries, soups, and panini.

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L I T T L E A DV E N T U R E S

by Cassidy Nunn | photo by Nunn Other Photography

Flexing Those Parenting Muscles I'd been told having kids is a workout – both mentally and physically – and while there's nothing that can fully prepare you for this unique workout ahead of time, what I'm learning is that each childhood phase strengthens a different set of my muscles. As I continue this parenting journey, I'm constantly surprised by how my body (and mind) continue to adapt and change as needed.

First there were the newborn workouts: the constant stream of diaper changes; marathon nursing sessions and neverending trips back and forth to the washing machine. Then came learning to wrestle the stroller in and out of vehicles and strapping the baby carrier to my chest while trying to safely insert the squirming baby into said carrier.

This is all while coping with the most extreme sleep deprivation, the adjustment of being responsible for this precious new life, and the sudden shift in my own identity as a person and mother. As with any workout performed daily, my muscles slowly strengthened, adapting to this new lifestyle. Just as I felt I was mastering the newborn workouts, boom – the next phase began: crawling.

With my daughter's newfound mobility, my daily training shifted to my eyesight as I constantly frantically scanned the ground for any perceived dangers; would she hurt herself if she bumped into that sharp edge? What about that piece of lint; will it end up in her mouth?

Probably. Wait – is that a choking hazard? It was time to install the baby gates and add soft padding to every single pointy edge in sight.

My eyes were soon as sharp as a microscope: they could zero in on a piece of dirt in milliseconds and I'd dive for the perceived danger just as my little one would shift into turbo gear and speed crawl towards it.

Soon, she added in pull-ups, scaling up the side of the couch or coffee table, heaving herself into an unsteady upright position. This was

usually followed by a giant grin of satisfaction and a gleeful squawk to announce to the world her latest achievement. This phase introduced my body to what I like to call the "hover position:" I would bend at the waist and the knees, hold my arms out as if preparing to give a giant hug and shuffle around the house after her. When she began to walk, as much as I tried to resist it my inner helicopter came out in full force and the hover position was in constant use. Tumbles and accidents still followed, despite my diligent hovering efforts. Just when I thought I'd need a lifetime's worth of massages to alleviate my aching back, my daughter became steady enough on her feet to start running. The hover position was quickly replaced with the simple "sprint-after-yourbolting-child" move, which is rather effective so long as you can keep up with their quick starts, stops and abrupt direction changes.

Now that my daughter is two, we're well into the toddler phase of endless energy. Recently I spent a solid consecutive 35 minutes racing in circles with her around my living room – an owl stuffie in one hand and a puppet bear in the other (both upon my daughter's strict orders!).

Every time I tried to rest for a lap by sitting on the couch, she'd dash over and command me to "off couch!" This afternoon of cardio was followed by another favourite game which we've come to call "knee walking" where, yes as you may have guessed, we walk around on our knees until we topple over, stomach muscles burning from laughter.

Even though we're sleeping much better these nights, it still feels like I've participated in a triathalon by the end of the day. But as I veg out on the couch after she's asleep in her crib and scroll through the photos and videos I've taken that day, the ache dulls and my sore muscles remind me of how strong they've become, preparing me for the next exciting milestone.

MAY 2022 | SEASIDEMAGAZINE.CA 33

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by Joan Saunders | photos by Amanda Cribdon Photography

E xperience SAVOURING THE Yes, it's Mother's Day again, and

I've cajoled my son into spending more time with me in the kitchen. He isn't that difficult to persuade when he knows he gets to enjoy the finished product. And when the final result includes puff pastry, cream cheese, tomatoes and smoked salmon, it's another winning experience for us both. Besides, it ends up as a fabulous Mother's Day brunch item as not only does it look gorgeous, but it also has layers of amazing flavour.

We started out with this recipe by assigning ourselves the challenge of homemade rough puff pastry; neither of us has attempted it before. Puff pastry of any kind sounds a bit intimidating, so we were pleasantly surprised when it wasn't that difficult. It does, however, take a lot of time. A lot. You have to make the dough, roll it out, fold it into quarters, wrap it up, put it in the fridge, bring it out again

after half an hour, roll it out, fold it into quarters, wrap it up and put it back in the fridge. You do this entire process four times in total, so it is a commitment. But is it worth it? Nope, not really.

It was worth it for us to say we had actually made rough puff pastry, so we could check that off our list of baking skills. But the second time we used this recipe we decided to buy puff pastry from the freezer section of the grocery store, and it made the process very straightforward. Just follow the directions on the package for thawing and you'll be good to go. You could even bake the bagel base the night before your brunch and easily assemble it in the morning.

This does make a fabulous showpiece for Mother's Day, but I would also serve it as an appetizer as it isn't too rich; having the pastry base lightens up the whole concept of an "everything bagel."

It's not the tidiest thing to eat, but it's entertaining when the pastry layers explode into flakes and you have to lick cream cheese off of your fingers. I guess you could use a fork and plate but, heck, there's so much joy in just digging in and savouring the experience of being with family while relishing food you made together. And, for me, that's what Mother's Day is all about.

Smoked Salmon with Everything Pastry "Bagel" 1 block or half package frozen puff pastry egg wash (1 egg mixed with 1 tbsp cool water) 2-3 tbsp everything bagel topping Whipped cream cheese 12 oz cream cheese, room temperature ¼ cup drained capers, chopped up rough grated zest of 1 lemon ½ tsp pepper 2 medium tomatoes, sliced thin 10-12 oz thinly sliced lox/smoked salmon 1/3 cup finely chopped red onion 1/3 cup thinly sliced green onions/scallions sprigs of fresh dill for garnish

36 SEASIDEMAGAZINE.CA | MAY 2022

On a lightly floured surface, roll out puff pastry dough into a circle a bit bigger than 12 inches. Using the rolling pin, carefully transfer pastry to a parchment lined baking sheet. Using a 12-inch circle (a cake pan or pie plate) cut dough into a 12-inch round. Use a four-inch cookie cutter or another guide to cut a round of dough from the centre and remove it.

Brush dough with your egg wash, then dock/prick it all over using a fork.

Sprinkle the everything topping evenly all over the pastry.

Put the dough in the fridge while you preheat the oven to 425° (but check the guidelines on the package of the puff pastry you bought).

Bake the pastry until it's evenly golden brown, about 25 minutes.

While it's baking, make the whipped cream cheese. In a bowl, using either a stand or handheld mixer, whip the cream cheese, capers, lemon zest and pepper until it's light, fluffy and very well mixed together.

Let the pastry cool completely before putting on the whipped cream cheese.

Put it on in dollops all over the pastry then spread it gently, as you don't want to crack the "bagel." Then arrange slightly-overlapping tomato slices on top of the cream cheese. Now put the smoked salmon on top of the tomatoes. Make it look like ruffles; it will look nicer than if you just lay it flat. Scatter the red and green onions on top. Finally, garnish with small sprigs of dill. Enjoy.

Slightly altered and combined from: www.howsweeteats.com/2020/03/smoked-salmon-tart/ www.punchfork.com/recipe/Smoked-Salmon-Everything-Bagel-Pie-Food52 The Book on Pie by Erin Jeanne McDowell, Houghton Mifflin Harcourt Publishing, 2020

MAY 2022 | SEASIDEMAGAZINE.CA 37

INSIDE OUT

by Whitney Welsh, Youth Action Coordinator, and the Youth Action Team at Shoreline Medical

You Are Not Alone:

Youth Mental Health During COVID-19

Since the beginning of the COVID-19 lockdown in early 2020, the Youth Action Team at the Saanich Peninsula Youth Health Clinic has continued to meet. We are a team of young volunteers in the Sidney region who meet weekly to discuss the health needs of young people in our communities. We work together to promote wellness, connect youth to resources and spread the word that everyone is deserving of support, no matter what issue they are facing.

As we adjusted to life during lockdowns, we had many conversations about the impacts of Covid on the mental health of ourselves and our peers. Prior to the beginning of the pandemic, youth mental health was already a major topic of discussion amongst our group, and something that our clinic has worked hard to address.

We decided to bring this discussion to a larger group. Using social media, we promoted a survey about mental health and wellness to youth on the Saanich Peninsula. We received an impressive response from youth as young as 12 and up to 24. While many of the things we learned from the survey were no surprise, it was comforting to see that global events have touched everyone, and we are all looking for ways to stay supported.

We found that, while over 90% of youth who participated in our survey have considered reaching out for support with their mental health, many hesitate due to fear of judgement, worries that their

concerns will be dismissed or diminished, or struggles with what it means to admit that something is wrong.

Many young people shared that they have felt isolated. Anxiety has increased, especially when it comes to navigating social situations that now feel unfamiliar. We feel a sense of grief when we think about the major life events we've missed out on. We struggle with ways that our bodies have changed during isolation and worry about what people will say or think.

We learned that many youth – over 95% – take on the responsibility of supporting friends. While it is important to care for our loved ones, it is also important to ask for the help. We learned about the many creative and resourceful ways in which youth tend to their own mental health, but we also know that sometimes we need someone trustworthy and kind to talk to.

If you or someone you know needs help, counselling is available at the Saanich Peninsula Youth Health Clinic. We are open every Thursday from 5:30 to 7:30 p.m. Our clinic is open to anyone 12 to 24. We offer medical appointments as well. Every service at our clinic is free of charge and confidential – your privacy and ability to speak openly about your health and wellness is a priority.

No one deserves to struggle alone, and sometimes we all need help.

You are not alone. Give us a call on Thursday evenings at 250-656 4143.

Mental Health Week May 2-8, 2022 In any year 1 in 5 people in Canada will personally experience a mental health problem or illness. Find the tools to support yourself, and support one another. The Canadian Mental Health Association is encouraging us all to tune in to one another, before we weigh in with our thoughts and advice. Practise empathy with those around you.

EXPRESSING EMPATHY IS EASY. When someone is struggling, you don’t have to fix their pain. Tune in and see through their eyes.

You can understand even if you don’t agree.

Understand someone’s feelings.

We may be different but we’re not on different sides.

See the world as others do.

For information and resources go to www.mentalhealthweek.ca

your community, your health 250-656-2948 sphf.ca MAY 2022 | SEASIDEMAGAZINE.CA 39

I N FA S H I O N

by Carol Davis, Kiddin Around

Summer Fashion and Dressing "Sun Safe" As the sun begins to shine and the days are warmer, we pack away our heavy winter layers in exchange for lighter summer attire. From sundresses and tanks to T-shirts and shorts, this usually means our kids (and ourselves) have more skin exposed to the sun's harmful UV rays.

Our children have sensitive skin that can be damaged over time by too much exposure from the sun's UV rays; even a cloudy or overcast day can lead to a sunburn. Living in this beautiful West Coast playground offers endless hours of outdoor activities, but with that comes extended sun exposure. Here are some ideas to enjoy the sun safely while keeping our kids "sunsafe" and fashionable.

UV clothing is one of the simplest ways to dress sunsafe and offers a variety of styles from coordinating separates, T-shirts (long and short sleeve), shorts, pants, one-pieces and hats. When selecting UV clothing, look for the UPF 50+ sun protection tag; this means the clothing can block up to 98% of the sun's harmful UVA and UVB rays while reducing the need for application of sunscreen as it provides longer protection while outdoors.

Quality brands such as Columbia, Sunday Afternoon, Cali Kid, Jan & Jul and Headster all display the UPF 50+ tag and

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offer additional features for extended playtime including breathability, hats with adjustable sizing to allow for growing kids and tearaway chin straps for added safety. The clothing also offers four-way stretch, providing comfort for all kinds of adventures and play.

When sunscreen is required for areas not covered by clothing and hats, there are now several brands that are chemical free, including Sun Bum and Matter Co. Both these brands use plant-based and organic ingredients which are safer to use for kids over six months; they are also vegan and gluten free. Sun Bum suncare products offer a wide variety of suncare from spray, lotions, mineral based and after sun lotions.

Don't forget the eyes! Kids' sunglasses have come a long way toward being more durable while providing UVA-protecting lenses. Kushies sunglasses offer infant and toddler sizing with flexible frames, allowing infants to get used to wearing eye protection at a young age. Knock Around sunnies are not only durable but they offer a variety of fun and fashionable frames that will complete any outfit!

This spring and summer season, don't forget that keeping your kids safe in the sun doesn't have to come at the expense of fashion.

Create Your Legacy of Love Would you like to extend your values of kindness and compassion beyond your lifetime to help others? Where there’s a will there’s a way.

By naming Our Place Society as a beneficiary in your will, your legacy will include the meals, shelter, and services that could make all the difference for those who want to transform their lives but just need a hand up.

What a legacy of love that would be.

Contact Jonathan confidentially at 250-940-5066 or email legacy@ourplacesociety.com.

ourplacesociety.com/legacygiving Registered Canadian Charity # 82709 8344 RR0001

40 SEASIDEMAGAZINE.CA | MAY 2022

SEASIDE talks with Anna Savage, Owner, Cottons and Blues, and mom Liz Savage, about what's

in FASHION …

In haircare? Anna: Kevin Murphy. In your closet? Liz: lots of long cardigans and comfy T-shirts. On your feet? Liz: New Balance runners, Fly. On your bedside table? Liz: Paris to the Moon by Adam Gopanak. In the kitchen? Anna: Chocolate – all kinds! On your luxury wish list? Liz: a week at the Wick or the Seashack. It was our goto Island holiday before Covid.

When it comes to your goto “uniform?” Liz: Lululemon leggings and comfy tops OR Mavi jeans and FDJ or Tentree tops. On your Netflix queue? Anna: Grey's Anatomy. On your walls? Liz: bright colourful paintings ie Christine Reimer. Anna: Jen Wright. In your makeup bag? Anna: Urban Decay pressed powder. On your skin? Anna: Éminence Organic Skin Care.

When you need more than a clutch? Anna: Louis Vuitton. When you want to throw fashion out the window and be all about comfort? Anna: Tentree. When you don’t care how much it costs? Liz: The Picasso Museum in Paris. It was closed when I was there last. Anna: Victoria Saddlery.

When you want a night out? Liz: Definitely The Chalet. On your playlist? Liz: happy songs I can dance to. In home décor?

Anna: Avenue B. Photos by Janis Jean Photography

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T H E N AT U R A L P AT H

by Dr. Marita Schauch, ND Tall Tree Integrated Health Centre

Wellness for New Mothers In all of the excitement and disruption of bringing home a brand new human, it is very common for new mothers to let their wellness fall by the wayside. With Mother's Day this month, I thought it was the perfect opportunity to give you some tips for taking care of yourself and prioritizing your wellness in the fourth trimester and beyond.

I think it's important to remember that first of all, it is NOT selfish to take time to care for yourself now, or at any other time, and prioritizing your well-being better allows you to prioritize your child's well-being.

Seek Support. Take advantage of the support offered to you during this time from your partner, friends, and family. You do not have to do it alone, and caring for and raising a child can absolutely be a shared responsibility.

I want to send some extra love and compassion for all of the new moms out there who may not have been able to be with their loved ones over the last couple of years. You are not alone.

I encourage you to reach out to friends and family virtually or, if you are needing guidance during this exciting and transitional time, reach out to a support provider such as a postpartum doula, who is able to connect with you in your area.

Take Your Vitamins. Many new moms can benefit from a good multivitamin, especially while breastfeeding as you may have a greater depletion of nutrient stores even if you're eating well. Some particular nutrients to look for are folic acid, calcium, iron, vitamin D and omega 3 fatty acids. Always talk with your healthcare provider prior to taking any supplements to ensure they are a good fit for you.

Explore the Wisdom of Plants. There are some herbs that have been used in postpartum healing for hundreds of years.

Witch hazel and calendula are excellent additions to bathwater to help with perineal healing. Chamomile tea can help with relaxation and constipation. Strong nettle tea can serve as a source of iron as well as with blood sugar regulation. Blessed thistle and fenugreek can help increase lactation. As always, seek the counsel of your healthcare provider before taking any of these remedies to ensure proper dosage and to check for any contraindications.

Get Plenty of Rest. Rest is essential for you right now as your body recovers from birth. It might be tempting to try and push yourself back into your usual responsibilities and to-do lists, but wherever possible I encourage you to make the space

to sleep and rest. It truly is one of the best healers.

Get out and Move. Physical activity can be challenging during this period – you're exhausted already. But after a normal vaginal birth, it's a great idea to get outside and move as soon as you feel up to it.

Fresh air and strolling go a long way for your health, your mood and your recovery. Activity after birth is also linked to a lower chance of postpartum depression and may also help manage symptoms.

Happy Mother's Day!

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S T E P H ' S D AY O U T

by Stephanie Staples | photos by Amanda Cribdon Photography

Ichi, Ni, San …

Taiko Drumming Perhaps you have admired and/or heard the beautiful Taiko Drums at special events; perhaps you have watched as the drummers played with their whole bodies, reminiscent of the perfect timing of synchronized swimmers.

Have you ever wondered what it would feel like to play those drums?

Well, thanks to www.uminaritaiko.com, if you are over 13 years old you can be an active participant in this ancient art of Japanese Drumming either as a drop-in, a workshop participant or, if you really like it, there is a six-week course waiting for you. Vancouver Island's first Taiko ensemble, Uminari, is always looking for new members; maybe their next new member is you! Uminari means "roaring sea" – how perfect for this Vancouver Island location. The group has come a long way since their inception in 2002 when their drums were fashioned from old car tires.

Rather than a typical "sensei and student" model, our instructors, ranging in age from 29 to 85, were more of a collective, each drawing on the experience and talents of each other to help their students fall in love with the art and learn a bit about Japanese culture.

44 SEASIDEMAGAZINE.CA | MAY 2022

"Taiko drumming," our patient teachers tell us, "is a fusion of ancient drums, theatre and martial arts, with a little dance thrown in to complete the mix!" It draws upon both your mental and physical faculties and as they are explaining this to us, our group members exchange nervous glances with each other.

Gayle, our primary instructor, started drumming at 50 years young and I think she has the joie de vivre to make anything fun. She starts teaching us the basics, with a drum-less warm up of full body stretching and movement, sharing the terminology of the equipment, teaching us how to hold the sticks (called bachi) and how to execute the proper stance. I felt particularly grounded being barefoot and enjoyed the community feeling of having all the drums in a circle.

The drumming techniques stretched from light, gentle taps on the rim of the Taiko to full body movement with arms outstretched overhead and everything in between. Every little thing influenced how the drum sounded and we learned to pick up the nuances and make the drum sound fuller.

Our youngest teacher, Kana Tsuji, played a special drum called the Shime; she was our timekeeper. Her position seemed akin to a coxswain for the rowers. We are taught to listen to her and follow her beat – she would set the pace for us.

And then they tell us … bom, bom, bom … we are going to learn a song – a traditional piece. No pressure, but we sure don't think we are ready for a song!

The have a flip chart paper "cheat-sheet" for us to look at, and they have seasoned veteran Ken Murata coaching and demonstrating; they have more confidence in us than we have in ourselves. The chart looks like this: Do Ro Tsu-Ku Do Ro Tsu-Ku Do Ro Tsu-Ku Don Don R L rl RL r l R Lr l R L Kana counts us in – ichi, ni, san (1, 2, 3) – and we begin. I think we sound fabulous; perhaps it's because they gave us earplugs at the beginning of the class?

We practise and practise the song and it's getting pretty darn fun and then the final element is added: a little cha-cha dance move where we shimmy/twirl over to our neighbour's drum and repeat the song again and again. Oh my – I need to think and move and remember, simultaneously; this activity is testing my mature memory to the limit.

We bang, we tap, we spin, we shout, we laugh and at the end of the three hours, there are nine happy students and three pleased teachers in the room.

To me, any day you can employ a beginner's mindset to learn something new is a great day and I would highly recommend trying this activity solo to strengthen your mindset and memory muscles or as a team to strengthen and connect people and create community quickly. Our group all had a great time!

If you are more the listening and appreciating type, you can hire the Uminari Ensemble to entertain at your next event.

What do you want to see Steph do next? Want to invite her to try something? Connect with Seaside at allison@seasidemagazine.ca.

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MAY 2022 | SEASIDEMAGAZINE.CA 45

N E W & N OT E WO R T H Y

by Paula Kully

News, changes, updates, launches? Email news@seasidemagazine.ca. location in Sidney where customers can enjoy their European-inspired bakery, breakfast and lunch menu. They are open for business seven days a week from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the corner of Bevan Avenue and Fifth Street.

THEY'RE BAAAACK Come Sail Away May 12 to 15 sees the return of the BC Boat Show to the Port Sidney Marina. Hosted by the British Columbia Yacht Brokers Association, the BC Boat Show is the largest in-the-water boat show on the West Coast with around 200 boats of all sizes. Tickets are on sale through Eventbrite and children are free.

Lobsterfest!

The Rotary Club of Brentwood Bay and the Saanich Peninsula Community Foundation have announced the return of Lobsterfest, scheduled for June 4! This highly popular annual event is held at the Mary Winspear Centre and raises funds to support local community organizations. Watch the SPCF website and social media for ticket information, as they sell out fast! www.sp-cf.ca.

MAKING STRIDES Twice the Charm The popular Tonolli's Deli on East Saanich Road has opened a second

To Bee or Not to Bee Nature Bee, located in Saanichton and locally owned by Katie Gambler, is a top-five finalist for two Small Business BC provincial awards! Nature Bee produces beeswax wraps as an alternative to single-use plastic products. The business has grown from a one-person endeavour to a fully staffed, growing production company that distributes across Canada and the United States. Check it out at www.naturebeewraps.ca.

GAME TIME Team Spirit Congratulations to the Peninsula Panthers, who recently won the Vancouver Island Junior Hockey League Championships at Panorama Recreation Centre, defeating the Oceanside Generals 4-3 in an overtime game. This is the team's first championship in more than a decade and comes after the team dedicated the season to their

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teammate, 18-year-old Grant Gilbertson who died in a car accident in January.

30 Years of Field of Dreams Peninsula Baseball and Softball Association celebrated the 30th Anniversary of Rotary Park-Field of Dreams on April 9. The opening of the season was marked by the first pitch by past president Eric Van Rooyen.

TAKING CARE OF BUSINESS Your New Board The Sidney Business Improvement Area Society (BIA) held its Annual General Meeting on March 31 resulting in the election of a new Board of Directors. Replacing outgoing President Brad Edgett, who has been on the Board since 2014, is Devon Bird, owner of Moden Boutique and Moden Essentials. Other Board members include Nick Coates, VicePresident (Travelodge Victoria Airport); Robyn Walle, Treasurer (Baker Tilly); Cathy Larsen, Secretary (Departures Travel); and Directors Sarah Scheller, (The Five & Dime Diner / The Surly Mermaid); Christina Georgeadis (Waterlily Shoes); Jessica O'Brien Cameron (CIBC Wood Gundy); and Jessica Sommers Dai (The Farmer's Daughter).

New Kid on the Block The Sidney BIA also welcomed a new Business Development Manager, Natalie Bobrowich. Natalie comes from Beacon Community Services, has a background in hospitality and recreation, and has owned her own business in the past. Welcome, Natalie!

THINGS TO SEE AND DO Unpacking a Part of History The Sidney Museum is currently hosting the travelling exhibit "The Suitcase Project." This multimedia exhibit from the Nikkei National Museum in Burnaby explores the history of Japanese Canadians and Americans during the Second World War, highlighting why this history is relevant more than 75 years later. The exhibit poses the question to fourth- and fifth-generation Japanese Canadians and Americans: what they would pack if uprooted from their homes in a moment's notice?

Dance by the Light of the Moon Join the Peninsula Full Moon Dance Party on May 16 from 8:30 to 9:45 p.m. at Beacon Park under the bandshell. Dance the night away under the full moon in the open air to music provided by DJ BoomKitty. This monthly event is open to everyone for some fresh air, boogie-woogie, and twist and shout dancing. Dress up; dress down; glow-in-the-dark; anything goes!

Signing Off I want to take this opportunity to thank Sue Hodgson and Allison Smith for the opportunity and support they have afforded me over the past five years of writing for Seaside Magazine. This is my last edition and the last few words I will pen for this much-loved publication. Thank you also to everyone on the Saanich Peninsula who read "my stuff." You were always so complimentary. I intend to continue writing in some form, so you haven't heard the last of me!

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MAY 2022 | SEASIDEMAGAZINE.CA 47

M E E T YO U R NEIGHBOURS

by Anne Miller photos by Janis Jean Photography

Lorraine Heryet:

SERVING UP A SLICE OF SIDNEY If you can say YES to at least one of the following, read on:

th

• I feel Sidney would benefit from a boost to the economy.

• I see the importance of fundraising for amenities to benefit Sidney.

• I am proud of Sidney.

• I love a sweet now and then.

These seemingly-unrelated assertions were nicely blended together for me by Lorraine Heryet, a long-time resident and accomplished artist with a dream rooted in her unique creation of a tasty treat called the Sidney Slice. 34 years ago, Lorraine entered a contest, initiated by her art group, aimed at promoting Sidney's reputation. Echoing the famed Nanaimo bar, known throughout Canada since the 1950s, the group hoped to find an equivalent that would give the town of Sidney similar recognition. Lorraine entered the contest, producing a delicious square made with nuts, coconut, butter and hard chocolate and, to her surprise, her creation won. The Sidney Slice was born. For

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a while, the Slice enjoyed some fame. Several organizations and individuals were interested, with the Sidney Bakery churning out the sweet and with locals and visitors calling or writing for information on where to get it. But interest faded.

Today, Lorraine sees important reasons to resurrect the Sidney Slice. One of them is economic. Tucked away off the Pat Bay Highway, Sidney is not in the flow of ongoing traffic. "It's not a drive-through town," so if we want to raise its profile and boost its economy, we should find a way to pique the interest of ferry traffic and divert it into Sidney. How about a billboard on the highway saying, "Welcome to Sidney – Home of the Sidney Slice?" Tourists add greatly to the economy yet, as elsewhere, Sidney has been stung by Covid. Furthermore, the Anacortes Ferry, historically a source of tourists, is still on hiatus. Sidney could use a boost in recognition and in visitors, as we have so much to offer them.

Lorraine says we simply need to walk around Sidney to see the many attractions. "Sidney is a gem. There's no other place like it." All is here, she says – the otters and eagles, the museum, the fish market, the beauty by the sea, a myriad of shops and amenities, the endearing statues, the friendliness and, of note, the prolific, colourful flowers, which are her favourite subjects for painting. Lorraine suggests that the Sidney Slice could be that hook to entice visitors and, thus, raise the town's profile.

She also envisions the Slice as a fundraiser for organizations interested in expanding their own standing, or in providing amenities and comforts that residents may be lacking. In particular, she fervently wants a resting bench outside Life Labs or the Island Health medical laboratory.

Lorraine has spent more days than she cares to remember waiting in the cold rain until her number is called for a medical test. She understands the discomfort and often pain of standing for long periods, intensified for people with canes and disabilities or parents with little children. A place to sit would add enormous relief and comfort, so she's hoping a sponsor will take this on.

Lorraine has held this dream for the Sidney Slice for a long time but fears it will be lost if not acted on now. She feels that several businesses, community organizations and individuals have a vested interest in endorsing the Sidney Slice in order to promote Sidney, jolt its economy and raise funds for some needed conveniences. Lorraine is eager to share her recipe and her technique. She challenges all would-be cooks to experiment and make improvements. "If a baker thinks he or she can make a better Slice, go for it!"

She hopes to hear from others who share her interest in this appealing treat because, however you slice it, it could be a win-win for everyone.

For more information, get in touch with Lorraine at jheryet@shaw.ca.

Your

Love

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You are investing in your community by supporting its unique businesses. Appreciate what makes our neighbourhoods different. Our one-of-a-kind shops and services are an inherent part of the distinctive character of our Saanich Peninsula neighbourhoods; that is what brought us here and will keep us here. Stay local and stay connected to the merchants in your community. By supporting them today, you are investing in a unique and sustainable future for the Saanich Peninsula community.

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Red Art Gallery Marion Evamy and Bobb Hamilton are the dynamic duo behind the Red Art Gallery, Sidney's hidden art oasis! The gallery has morphed from a retail operation on Oak Bay Avenue to a stunning show space and gallery for the commanding paintings of Sidney Fine Art Show Master, Marion Evamy. Marion's paintings have been described as "having a wonderful raw and energetic quality – a quickness of stroke and range of techniques which create the vitality in her paintings. I see depth and breadth in her various interests, which she owns and works with intentionally, and these various approaches make her work even richer."

Thousands of happy Collectors have purchased her art and continue to seek out Marion's latest creations. Designers and other creative professionals are drawn to her originality and strong sense of design. Contemporary and joyful, these paintings range from still-life to figurative to abstract.

Sophisticated colour combinations and a strong "mid-century modern" influence are evident. Larger scale paintings are her specialty and commissions can be arranged. Local delivery, "test-drives," payment plans and complimentary installation are available. Viewing by appointment only.

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9719 First Street, Sidney Open Tuesday-Saturday 10-5

Hansell & Halkett vintage home décor Hansell & Halkett vintage home décor was born out of the love for good quality timeless pieces and the hope to reduce our ecological footprint, while at the same time creating aesthetically pleasing spaces that we look forward to spending time in.

We love the thrill of searching for vintage and antique treasures. Our carefully-curated collection is the perfect mix of rustic farmhouse and classic French Country furniture and home décor. We also offer a collection of unique garden pieces, vintage textiles, floral arrangements and potted creations, as well as absolutely fabulous one-of-a-kind pieces of furniture.

In addition to pre-loved pieces, we partner with over 20 local artists who share the same philosophy of treading lightly and crafting good quality timeless goods; from pillows made from clothing, to locally raised sheep skins and hand poured soy candles. We have gifts for all occasions, and just the right piece to make your next celebration extra special.

If you've yet to discover us, we are nestled in Garden Court at 2360 Beacon Ave. and are open Tuesday through Sunday. Or find us online at hansellhalkett.com. Come and visit; our space will leave you wanting to sit down, kick up your feet and stay awhile.

LIVING OFF THE LAND

by Jo Barnes photos by Amanda Cribdon Photography

Farm or Die:

GROWING WITH THE NEXT GENERATION When starting out in life, some seek fame. Some desire fortune. But for two young men, it's about putting food on the table.

Garrett Simon Gardner and Ben Kjernisted, owners of Farm or Die Agricultural Solutions in North Saanich, are two farmers in their 20s whose enthusiasm and determination translates into a nourishing harvest and an example of the importance of local food security.

They are a new generation of farmers, inspired by YouTube videos, and growing produce on family land.

"Ben's grandma was a farmer, and she owns Whiteoak Farm which is where we grow our produce," shares Garrett. "We've done a lot of research. There are all kinds of videos on YouTube about farming in backyards or farming a small parcel of land."

To date, the two young farmers have grown microgreens, lettuce, salad greens, cucumbers, carrots, chives, cherry tomatoes, onions and summer squash. They sell their produce to various markets including Esquimalt Market, James Bay Market, Saanich Market (fairgrounds), and Oakland Sunset Market.

Their interest in farming is underlined by a core philosophy: "We want to create access to good food and increase people's food literacy," shares Garrett. Ben adds: "We want to get back to our roots with sustainable work. I'm interested in a healthy lifestyle and growing a natural product that is beneficial to people in the long term."

The two were formerly involved in the music scene on the mainland. "We were working in the music industry," says Garrett. "I was involved in the technical side. Ben was going to recording school.

He's a very talented musician."

The unusual business name – Farm or Die – is derived from the name of a music studio in the house in which they lived. "Farm or Die; the name is hard to miss," shares Ben. "It's simple and resonates.

It's a bold image that we hope inspires younger demographics."

The two roommates spent time outside of work caring for the gardens around their residence. "We were always gardening at the homes we were renting," says Garrett.

A longing for more meaningful work, coupled with a growing interest in farming, prompted the two to relocate to the Saanich Peninsula. "I had a need for deeper work, work that responded to a core need in the community," says Garrett.

Garrett and Ben attended a local forum focusing on a healthy and sustainable food system around the Capital Regional District.

"In 2018, we went to the Good Food Summit at UVic," says Garrett. "It was all about the economic and academic side of farming.

Food security is a big issue on the Island."

Principles of sustainability inform their approach, including crop rotation, maximizing biodiversity, composting routines, and low impact techniques.

"We use heavy crop rotation and learn about and work with pest cycles," says Garrett. "We are low to no till. We use a two-wheel tractor with low emissions, a rotary harrow, and hand tools like rakes and broadfork."

These approaches reduce the negative impact on soil that can occur with more traditional farming methods.

Produce is grown without use of chemicals or pesticides. "We use a lot of organic matter, about a three- to six-inch layer of excellent local compost," adds Garrett.

A drive to improve soil quality is key. "If you build better soil, it holds more carbon and water," says Garrett. "You reduce the water loss with high quality soil."

Growing the produce and running the business side of things means detailed planning and long hours. "It is a high volume of work and labour intensive. We have to focus on the entire season, not just the moment, so you have to plan forward," shares Ben. The business was very new when the pandemic arrived, but despite initial challenges, the situation brought positive results and an affirmation of the path they had chosen. "Market traffic was low in the first couple of weeks, but markets got back up," says Garrett. "I am grateful for my work. With the pandemic, the music industry halted, and I knew a lot of good friends who were out of business."

The path to success frequently includes learning from your mistakes. "Life is short. Failure is where all the learning comes," shares Garret. "You have to try things and take risks."

It's spring and a new season is underway. The hours will still be long, and the labour intensive, but these two young farmers are committed to the work. "It's like that phrase, 'don't be part of the problem; be part of the solution,'" remarks Garrett. "You're more than a farmer; you're part of the community."

Their goal of putting food on the table is so much more than striving to offer healthy choices. It's striving for food security for our community using a sustainable approach.

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Peninsula Flavour:

OPENING MAY 19!

Bakery by day, Restaurant by night.

Serving classic European comfort food.

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Same local owners, friendly staff, and great fish and chips!

MONTH

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A Selection from the Menu at Fresh Cup Roastery Café

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Breakfast • Honey Oatmeal • Granola and Yogurt • Fresh Start Breakfast Sandwich

• Breakfast Burrito • Breakfast Pocket • Egg Powerbite • Ham & Cheese Croissant • Quiche

Bakery & Pastries • Muffins – made from scratch • Ham & Cheese Croissants • Apple Turnover • Eccles Cake • Lemon Loaf

• Cream Cheese Cinnamon Bun • Banana Chocolate Chip Loaf • Nutty Cluster (may contain nuts)

Commercial & Retail Bakery Deli • Artisan Market

Savouries & Lunch

Gluten Free & Vegan • • • • • •

Muffins - from scratch Scones (berry & cheddar) Lemon Loaf Peanut Butter Cup Roasted Hazelnut Choco-Chew Dark Chocolate Brownie

Desserts, Cookies & Bars • • • • • • • •

Trail Bar (dairy free) Westcoast bar (vegan, gluten free) Butter Tart Gourmet Rice Krispie Square Oatmeal & Raisin Cookie Almond Tart Chocolate Chip Walnut Cookie Chocolate Almond Bark

• Spinach Feta Brioche • Irish Beef Roll • Veggie Roll

• Meat Lasagna • Chicken Curry • 5 cheese pizza (on rotation)

Daily Lunch Specials Monday - Homemade Chili & Corn Bread Tuesday - Ham & Brie Waffle Sandwich Wednesday - Bacon Jam and Cheddar Burger w/coffee Thursday - Gourmet Mac & Cheese Friday - Fresh made – Specialty Salad (rotates) (Roasted Yam, Cheeky Greeky, Harvest Quinoa)

Salads • Fresh Cup (large & small) • Harvest Quinoa

• Roasted Yam • Cheeky Greeky • Caesar (non-dairy)

Sandwiches, Wraps & Paninis (rotate daily)

$10 – Burger & Fries or 1 lb Wings after 8pm (Sun-Thurs)

Mon - Sat: 11am-midnight; Sun: 10am-midnight

Join Us for Great Food & Beverages or Call us for Take-out

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Sidney – Past, Present & Future At one time Sidney was like many small coastal communities. It harvested the land and sea resources through its sawmill and cannery.

Not surprisingly, it had a reputation for being a bit rough and tumble. But like all communities, change came.

The resource industry waned, the sawmill and cannery closed and the buildings were demolished. Over time Sidney became the commercial centre for the north peninsula. People moved their families here, attracted by its seaside location and small town ambience.

Today, Sidney is the poster kid for a picturesque seaside community. It sports a walkable waterfront, with a hustling little downtown all wrapped up with comfortable neighbourhoods.

Whether we like it or not, demographics, economics and climate change will result in changes to Sidney. We are growing older, which is going to drive demand for different types of services and housing.

Affordability is a word that has become meaningless in respect to housing. Increasingly, only those with the means are able to buy into the Sidney housing market.

Downtown Sidney may need to reinvent itself in order to stay vibrant in a changing retail market.

Atmospheric rivers, heat bombs and sea level rise will impact how we adapt our infrastructure, buildings and shoreline.

The Town of Sidney is currently updating the Official Community Plan (OCP) for the first time since 2007. The expectation is that a revised draft OCP will likely be presented to Council for adoption before summer. It will set the framework for what type of development could be built next to you. The policies and guidelines in the Official Community Plan will set the context for what the downtown will look and feel like. It will determine to what extent the creeks, shoreline and marine environment will be protected.

Organizations like Sidney Community Association (SCA), Saving our Sidney (SOS), Friends of Shoal Harbour (FOSH) and the Saanich Peninsula Environmental Coalition (SPEC) have been working collaboratively to provide input on the draft OCP. Our input is critical because once the OCP is adopted by Council it is likely that it will be another 10 to 15 years before the community has another opportunity to chart the direction of Sidney.

The Sidney Community Association serves as a portal of information to the membership. Information on a variety of initiatives being undertaken by the Town as well as the potential impact of major development applications is conveyed to the membership. In return, concerns and opinions from the membership are conveyed to the Town.

For more information, visit www.sidneycommunityassociation.ca.

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MAY 2022 | SEASIDEMAGAZINE.CA 55

ARTS SCENE

by Jo Barnes | photos by Amanda Cribdon Photography

Nikki Drummond:

Paris and subsequently moved to the small town of Maisons-Lafitte when she was a teenager.

"I was born and raised in a country where art is everywhere," she says. "There are museums and galleries all over the place."

In her lifetime, Nikki has called many places her home. "I have travelled since I was a child, and my parents were great travellers," says Nikki. "The opportunity to learn a different culture has always been part of my life."

After a year of pharmacy studies at university, Nikki decided to change direction and applied to the Amity Institute. This organization offered the opportunity to travel to other countries and learn their cultures. After a year's travel in the United States and teaching French at a high school in California, she took advantage of another teaching opportunity in Canada.

"There was a position at a school in Cranbrook, B.C.," shares Nikki.

"What a change! Life went from 110° to freezing temperatures!"

The move not only brought new professional experiences in teaching, it also impacted her personal life as well. While there, she met David Drummond, with whom she has now been married to for over 50 years.

In 2016, she began making jewelry and soon took up kumihimo: the traditional Japanese art form of making braids and cords.

"I am fond of Japanese art," she remarks. "Kumihimo is used for the cord for Samurai and around the obi. It is fascinating!"

Always seeking to enhance her skills and her craft, she added beadwork to these creations. "I started making beaded kumihimo, and people love it," says Nikki. "It is jewelry that is neither grand nor showy. It is just classy."

CREATIVE VIEWPOINTS Perspective. It can be one's opinion based on experience. It can be one's approach on life. It could be finding depth and range in what you draw. The artist, Nikki Drummond, has pursued perspective in all these ways.

Living in different places in the world, an abundance of creativity, and learning new skills including developing her drawing ability have all added to Nikki's mastery of perspective. "I have a craving to create things," shares Nikki. "I really enjoy painting, but I had trouble drawing perspective. I took a course. It was difficult, but I kept on at it."

Nikki has enjoyed many artistic pursuits including quilting, embroidery and making greeting cards and jewelry. Being creative is integral to her identity. "I have always liked creating my own thing," she says. "When the preteen Barbie doll came out, I decided I'd make doll furniture. I made a little closet out of wood."

Recently, she added painting to her list of artistic activities.

"When Covid first started, I picked up a brush and started to do painting," she says.

Like any new artistic endeavor, there have been learning curves. For Nikki, this is ideal. "I create for the love of it," she comments. "I am a perpetual learner and take courses in different media. Now with the internet, the university comes to you."

This passion for art originated in childhood, when Nikki was exposed to the wonders of art all around her. She was born in 56 SEASIDEMAGAZINE.CA | MAY 2022

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Nikki also creates jewelry using a metal clay technique. She sculpts the clay into items which are baked in a 1400° kiln and then finalized through a polishing process.

Regardless of the art medium she's doing, it is important to Nikki that she finds her own unique self-expression and style. "I watch others' techniques," remarks Nikki. "But I am always developing my own style."

She looks forward to the Saanich Peninsula Arts and Crafts (SPAC) show in April at the Mary Winspear Centre. "It's the first in-person show in a while," says Nikki. "I will have some of my work on display."

Nikki thoroughly enjoys sharing her love of art with other people.

She has been a regular workshop teacher for SPAC. "Every February, we offer mini workshops which are open to all members," says Wendy Woollard, coordinator of the annual SPAC show. "Nikki has taught jewelry. Her classes are always full."

Nikki's creative zeal and energy can be infectious. "Anything Nikki does, she does with great enthusiasm," says Wendy, adding with a smile, "She has two speeds: 1,000 mph and zero!"

For Nikki, encouraging others to explore and find their own artistic pursuit is all a part of her creative joy. "We are all talented; just try!

You'll find something that will appeal to you," she remarks, adding: "The fact that you've never done it, well, don't let that stop you. Find a course and learn the basics."

Art has always taken Nikki down many paths of learning, surprising her along the way and giving her the opportunity to make mistakes and bring her own unique perspective. As Nikki knows, it's all about perspective.

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RAFFLE LAUNCHES MAY 18TH

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MAY 2022 | SEASIDEMAGAZINE.CA 57

THE TIME IS NOW

Life at Amica Beechwood Village is once again its wonderful, normal self. Take walks in the private gardens. Enjoy extraordinary cuisine, anytime. Catch up with loved ones, face-to-face.

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The Science of Feeding Our Pets

by Brooklyn Cribdon photo by Amanda Cribdon Photography

Can feeding our furry friends really be that complex? Although the answer to this question is "yes," that doesn't mean we need to be fearful of diving into the world of pet nutrition.

One of the most common mistakes we make when it comes to pet nutrition is we transpose our knowledge of human nourishment onto animals. It's an easy mistake to make, given the relative infancy of research in the field alongside the saturation of company-sponsored information floating around online and in media. However, there are many resources out there to help pet parents make the best choices for their feline and canine family members. Two local resources are Sue Martinson, owner of Brentwood Bay's Rascals Pet Market; and Christine Leman, owner of Sidney's Four Paws Pet Grocery & Boutique.

Christine and Sue are a wealth of information when it comes to understanding the complex nature of feeding animals and help make the responsibility of ensuring our pets are healthy much less arduous.

Regardless of whether a pet parent uses a kibble or raw food base for their animal, adding variety, fresh ingredients, and/or additional supplements to the meal provides the opportunity for animals to be excited about what's in their bowl while having a well-rounded diet.

Some fantastic additions to a pet's bowl can include freeze dried meal toppers, bone broth, goat's milk, fish oil, and fresh or cooked veggies from your fridge. Christine says: "You can improve your dog's diet every day by including foods from your own fridge … you can feed them some leftover chicken or cooked sweet potato. Blueberries, bananas … you can get some of those benefits of a fresh diet without the price tag." Tasty add-ons are appreciated by pets the same way humans appreciate things like fresh parmesan over a salad or a cut up banana over oatmeal.

Meanwhile, Sue provides plenty of information on pet food ingredients and where they are sourced from. She encourages pet

parents to think about ingredients by considering "what does the animal that [I'm feeding to my dog] eat? Are the chickens grass or grain fed?" The answers to these questions can provide insight into how your pet may respond to certain foods.

Adding plant-derived Camelina oil to a dog's meal has been shown to reduce shedding and enhance their coat, while fish oil can often help with canine allergies and arthritis. Perhaps the latest trend may appeal to some: adding goat milk over kibble or raw food can offer a good source of calcium, aid in boosting the immune system, and promote bone and teeth health. Many formulas for goat milk toppers also include additional ingredients like berries, pumpkin and carrots.

Bone broth is another source rich in nutrients. Made by boiling bones and animal-safe herbs and spices (or you can go the easy route and purchase it premade), bone broth can be used on its own, be mixed in with their regular food, or even used to rehydrate any freeze-dried meals. This meal topper is rich in minerals and can aid in gut health (and thus digestion) as well as healthy joints. Like many things, it's important to do a bit of research and make sure the supplements you intend to add to a meal are formulated and designed for animals.

There are so many ways to show our pets love through food and, no matter your budget or accessibility needs, ensuring they have a healthy diet and access to key nutrients. If there is one message to keep in mind, however, it would be that variety is key – for both nutrition benefits and to appeal to our animals' senses. If you're looking for more unbiased information on pet nutrition, Christine suggests checking out the Skept Vet blog, The Science Dog blog, the Dog Food Advisor website, or The Whole Dog Journal (a print magazine with zero advertising and geared to the average pet owner), while Sue suggests investigating who owns the brand of food you're interested in as well as finding out where they source their ingredients from.

MAY 2022 | SEASIDEMAGAZINE.CA 59

I N G O O D H E A LT H - Hearing Assessments - Auditory Processing Evaluation & Therapy - Balance/Vestibular Testing & Therapy - Wax Removal - Hearing Aids - Hearing Aid Adjustments & Repairs

by Jesse Holth

Brittani Trapp Doctor of Audiology

Hear Inc.

As independent audiologists, we work for you, not a hearing aid manufacturer.

Saanichton: 778-351-1145 Brentwood: 778-426-4876

What is SSNHL? Donna Stewart Audiologist/Owner

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www.saanichphysio.com 60 SEASIDEMAGAZINE.CA | MAY 2022

Ear health is one of those things that many of us take for granted – we don't tend to give it much thought until something goes wrong. From tinnitus to dizziness, your ears are intimately connected to your overall health and well-being. They affect your balance, cognition and happiness: it's hard to feel like "yourself" when you have a constant ringing in your ears.

Problems with ear health can range from distracting or annoying, to being a symptom of an underlying health issue. Donna Stewart, owner and audiologist at Hear Inc. in Brentwood Bay (Dr. Brittani Trapp is the audiologist at the Saanichton clinic), says it's important to pay attention to your hearing – especially if you notice sudden hearing loss.

While this can be the result of something innocuous, like wax buildup causing plugged ears, it's still important to get it checked right away.

"Hearing loss typically happens gradually over several years," explains Donna, "but if you experience a sudden change in your hearing, the clock is ticking." Sudden Sensorineural Hearing Loss, or SSNHL, is a decrease of hearing that occurs instantly or rapidly (less than 72 hours), typically in one ear. It may be accompanied by tinnitus (a ringing or constant noise in the ears), vertigo (dizziness), sensitivity to loud sounds, and/or aural fullness – the feeling that your ears are plugged up.

One thing is certain: when it comes to ear health, it's better to be safe than sorry. "The sooner you seek medical follow up, the more likely you are to have a full recovery," Donna says. The number of people who experience SSNHL every year is unknown, as the condition often goes unreported. While it can happen at any age, SSNHL is most common in people ages 43 to 53, with men and women affected at similar rates.

"The cause of SSNHL can be difficult to determine," says Donna.

According to a recent study published in the Journal of Otology, the underlying cause of SSNHL is identified in only 10 to 15% of cases at the time of onset. But the good news is that many people who experience SSNHL make a full recovery. It's estimated that up to 65% of individuals will spontaneously recover, without medical

We Treat Real People Just Like You!

treatment, within the first two weeks. Three months is the benchmark for moving into a more permanent condition: if the hearing loss persists beyond the three-month mark, it's unlikely that a significant improvement in hearing levels will occur.

So what should you do if you experience a sudden change in your hearing? "See your doctor or go to the ER as soon as possible," Donna urges. "The physician will rule out an easily treatable conductive hearing loss caused by excess earwax, sinus congestion or ear infection." They may also refer you to an audiologist – like Donna – for diagnostic testing. "If it's determined that you are experiencing a SSNHL, various treatments such as steroids, hyperbaric oxygen therapy, or ozone therapy, may be employed." If you receive prompt medical attention, there is an 85% chance that you will regain some or all of your hearing.

"Whether you have had a sudden sensorineural hearing loss, just want a baseline hearing test, or you're ready to talk about hearing aids, give Hear Inc. a call at 778-351-1145 – we're here to help," says Donna.

Here are some of the issues that an audiologist can help you with: Hearing – baseline tests, hearing aids, basic tests for employment or certification, diagnostic assessments.

Balance – vestibular disorders, including symptoms such as dizziness, nausea, vertigo, feeling off-balance, or light-headedness.

Auditory Processing Disorders (APD) – someone with APD may have poor listening, difficulty reading, short attention span, difficulty following verbal directions, delay in language development, and difficulty understanding speech in noise.

Pediatrics – testing can be provided for children at a developmental age of five or more; test results can be forwarded to your family physician, teacher, speech pathologist or other specialist.

Cerumen (earwax) Management – earwax is normal and healthy but can occasionally build up and block the canal; wax can be removed with instruments, irrigation (flushing with water), or suction (special vacuum tool).

Tinnitus – tinnitus is the perception of sound in the ears or head when there is no external sound source present; can be in the form of ringing, buzzing or thumping; there are many treatment options available.

"Problems with ear health can range from distracting to being a symptom of an underlying health issue. "

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April Book Club

Check out some of our new and best selling titles!

by Deborah Rogers

Book Club

We had selected Liz Levine's Nobody Ever Talks About Anything But the End to discuss at our March meeting. Unfortunately due to job action at the library, we have not held meetings in March or April, but I didn't want this exquisite little book to go undiscussed. The book is a memoir of Levine's life, focused around two dominating events: the loss of her best friend from cancer and her sister to suicide. With that description you might imagine a dark, heavy book, yet Levine's approach to the subject matter leads you in with a light touch. She talks in her foreword about trying to make sense of her relationship with her sister, to "figure out where I went wrong, to become a detective in death." It's in the act of unpicking the stories from her past that she is able to look at both relationships, examine them, and start "learning what to do with all the feelings" she has.

The book is presented as a series of short vignettes, arranged alphabetically. If we had had our planned Q&A with the author, this format would have been one of the first subjects we asked her about.

The structure seems arbitrary, yet the seemingly random titles (e.g.

Ashes, Addicted, Naive, Nightmares, Ziplock, Zephyr) are hooks to hang a quiet revelation on. There's no continuity in the timeline: we see Liz interacting with her friend Judson and sister Tamara at all different ages, and gradually build up a sense of not just those relationships but of course of the author herself.

Whichever format she might have chosen to tell it – Levine is a film and TV Producer as well as a journalist – her story would have been fascinating. Her family is full of strong characters and Liz is able to reveal humour in almost every situation. The readers from our group found power and comfort from the way that Liz's complicated relationship with Tamara is treated. Several found resonances with losses in their own lives. I mention the humour, but grief is woven right through this book and Levine's ability to face the subject head-on in her writing feels authentic and is extremely moving.

We have high hopes that Book Club meetings will resume this month, with a scheduled date of Tuesday May 10. We'll be discussing awardwinning poet, and North Saanich resident, Lorna Crozier's Through the Garden: A Love Story (with Cats). Sign up to our Book Club mailing list to find out about upcoming meetings: seasidemagazine.ca/book-club

The Gates of Europe:

A History of Ukraine

Serhii Plokhy History | PB $24.99

Forest Walking:

Extraordinary Canadians:

Freezing Order:

Stories from the Heart of Our Nation

Peter Mansbridge Biography | PB $22.00

This Is

Bill Browder Current Affairs | HC $36.99

Discovering the Assisted Dying: Trees and Woodlands A Doctor’s Story of of North America Empowering Patients at the End of Life Peter Wohlleben

Nature | PB $24.95

Death with a Double Edge Daniel Pitt #4

Anne Perry Mystery | PB $23.00

Stefanie Green PB | $24.99

Oh William!

Eliabeth Strout Fiction | PB $24.00

A True Story of Money Laundering, Murder, and Surviving Vladimir Putin’s Wrath

Framed in Fire

Lane Winslow #9

Iona Whishaw Mystery | PB $16.95

The Dark Hours Ballard & Bosch

Michael Connelly Mystery | PB $22.99

The Secret Life of Dorothy Soames Justine Cowan Biography | PB $21.99

China

Edward Rutherfurd Fiction | PB $24.95

Great Circle

Maggie Shipstead Fiction | PB $24.00

Thank you for being part of our book family For 40 years we’ve been connecting people of all ages to the joy and adventure of reading. We’re proud of our role in keeping the Peninsula and Gulf Islands well-read!

Thank you for continuing to shop at Tanner’s Books.

at Beacon & Fourth in Sidney open 7 days a week 250 656 2345 | tannersbooks.com

Open for browsing everyday, 9am to 5pm MAY 2022 | SEASIDEMAGAZINE.CA 63

U N I Q U E LY PENINSULA Open 7 Days a Week Eat in-house, outdoors on our patio, or take-away.

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Marigold Café: More Than a Coffee Shop

by Paula Kully

This is part of a rotating series of articles about some of the Saanich Peninsula's unique shops and services.

If you were asked what keeps you coming back to a favourite cafe, what would you say? Chances are that great coffee would be at the top of many people's lists. If that's the case, then Marigold Café has you covered! Numerous reviews sing high praises for Marigold's outstanding specialty coffees. Everything from vanilla lattés to mocha frappes to their delicious organic brewed blend.

But The Marigold is more than a coffee shop. With Red Seal Executive Chef Ryan Hayter at the helm, the breakfast and lunch menu offers gourmet soups and sandwiches for the perfect addition to that amazing cup of java. Top it all off with one of their in-house, baked fresh daily pastries, and goodies such as cinnamon buns, blueberry scones, chocolate brownies and delectable gluten-free and vegan options. Chef Ryan ensures that the majority of their food is made from scratch from locally sourced, fresh ingredients.

This modern café is located at 7900 Lochside Drive in Saanichton in the new, up-and-coming neighbourhood of the Marigold Lands Development. Fronting Lochside Trail, the café boasts a sleek, industrial-themed atmosphere indoors, and a generous, covered patio overlooking a garden and water feature outdoors.

Owners, Ryan and Jenny Hayter live in the area and are raising their son and future sous-chef, Will in the community. They have spent their working careers in the hospitality industry. Ryan as a respected Red Seal Executive Chef for 20 years and Jenny managing hotels and cafes for 15 years. Between them, The Marigold Café is a culmination of their life's dream and passion, which is obvious to customers who rave about the impeccable, friendly service and high quality of their food and beverages.

The café's location lends well to the cycling community who ride Lochside Trail. There is ample bike parking and the Dero Fixit bike repair and water bottle refill stations are complimentary on-site services. For neighbourhood locals, the Marigold is becoming a new, favourite meeting place.

For people on their way to work around the Peninsula or heading to the airport and ferries, the Marigold makes a great pitstop. It is a short, convenient, quiet detour off the busy highway and if you don't have time to eat in, you can take away your order.

The Marigold Café is open seven days a week from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Go check it out and find out for yourself what people are talking about! www.themarigoldcafe.com.

BC Boat Show Returns to Sidney The BC Boat Show returns May 12 to 15, 2022 to Port Sidney Marina in Sidney, B.C. The BC Yacht Brokers Association (BCYBA), host of the BC Boat Show, is proud to announce that this year's show will be better than ever.

With visitors from across British Columbia, Alberta and Washington State, and dozens of exhibitors showcasing hundreds of boats, the seaside town of Sidney will be transformed for the weekend.

Watercraft of every kind will be on display and range from paddle boards, kayaks and inflatables to power and sailing vessels of every size. Professional brokerages bring a large inventory of vessels to the show, and will be there to welcome attendees aboard to tour the boats of their dreams. The event is the perfect opportunity to join thousands of boating enthusiasts at the West Coast's largest in-the-water boat show.

Boat Show Manager, Steven Threadkell, is excited about the prospect of another busy show: "We are very excited to be back in beautiful Sidney for a spring show, following our very successful fall show in 2021. We look forward to getting back on the water in the merry month of May to kick off what will be another delightful summer season."

For visitors to the Island, the BC Boat Show is providing a free shuttle bus from the Swartz Bay ferry terminal and from the convenient free parking at the top of Beacon Avenue (Mary Winspear Centre). Make a weekend of it and enjoy all that Sidney and the surrounding areas have to offer including beautiful beaches, forest hikes, restaurants, shopping and many visitor attractions.

Stay informed at www.bcboatshow.com or on Facebook and Instagram @BCBoatShow.

Show Hours: Thursday, May 12 – 11 a.m. to 6 p.m; Friday, May 13 – 11 a.m. to 6 p.m; Saturday, May 14 – 10 a.m. to 6 p.m; Sunday, May 15 – 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

Daily Tickets: $10 per person / $8 seniors and students; kids 16 and under free with paying adult.

Tickets available online at www.bcboatshow.com or at the gate.

The British Columbia Yacht Brokers Association (BCYBA) is a self-regulating professional not-for-profit organization dedicated to promoting all aspects of the recreational marine industry and ensuring that yacht brokers maintain a high standard of competence and professional ethics.

"We look forward to getting back on the water in the merry month of May to kick off what will be another delightful summer season. "

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MAY 2022 | SEASIDEMAGAZINE.CA 65

Our Place Society:

Nourishing Our Shared Community When people have survived a life spent struggling with poverty, mental health, and trauma, many treasure moments of fun and good times with friends, old and new.

Enter the "Our Place 55+ Club" – a program that brings marginalized elders together for activities that build connections, joy and even some laughs. Participating seniors are some of the community's most vulnerable – the average age of mortality of people experiencing homelessness in B.C. is 47. The Club welcomes seniors with limited resources and other barriers that restrict them from participating in recreational and educational activities. The 55+ Club's outings include places like Butchart Gardens and Island View Beach as well as gardening, picnics, exercise classes and "theme" lunches together. Smiles and bonds that last are the result.

"Social inclusion is particularly important for impoverished seniors because they're at greater risk of isolation and depression," says Patricia O'Byrne, Our Place's Community Engagement Program Manager, who started the 55+ Club in 2018. "The Club improves well-being, and ensures this group has access to vital information. But we also want them to have a little fun and occasional treat, too."

The program is made possible through donors and a New Horizons for Seniors grant from Service Canada. Local donors contribute to

66 SEASIDEMAGAZINE.CA | MAY 2022

alleviating poverty through Our Place in other ways, including the option to leave a legacy gift in a will. It's an easy way for people to extend their values of thoughtful compassion beyond their lifetime to help others, ensuring that services that nourish dignity and belonging can carry on in the future.

Programs like this one, and others, can be found at the downtown centre on Pandora where 1,300 meals are served daily, and clothing and hygiene products are distributed to those who need it most. Our Place also manages 12 locations now, housing 500 people a night.

While a financial gift in a will is a loving way to make an impact on the work of Our Place Society, there is an additional way to celebrate a legacy too.

Until July, Our Place is providing the opportunity for people to immortalize loved ones through art by local artist Elfrida Schragen, who is donating her time and talent to paint commissioned "Portraits of Caring." This will give people the opportunity to have a one-ofa-kind, timeless piece created of spouses, children, retirees, Board members, even treasured pets, and support Our Place at the same time.

More information about the "Portraits of Caring" and other ways to nourish positive change, including leaving a legacy gift, can be found at www.ourplacesociety.com or by calling 250-940-5060.

SCREEN SCENE

by Tabatha Golat

EVERYTHING EVERWHERE ALL AT ONCE: A GENRE-DEFYING PLOT If you're ready to head back to the movie theatre and enjoy a night of chaotic entertainment, look no further than this month's recommendation Everything Everywhere All at Once. This comedy/kungfu/multiverse/action film is mind-bendingly entertaining and surprisingly sweet. Though difficult to fully summarize (given the aforementioned genre-defying plot) this film is worthy of a venture to your closest theatre.

Directed by the "Daniels"– Daniel Kwan and Daniel Scheinert – and produced by The Avengers' Russo brothers, Everything Everywhere delves into a Matrix-like multiverse with an unlikely hero: Evelyn. Played by Michelle Yeoh (Crazy Rich Asians), Evelyn is an overworked wife and mother running a faltering laundromat with her inept (yet sweet) husband Waymond (Ke Huy Quan, Indiana Jones and the Temple of Doom) when during an IRS audit she is pulled into an alternate reality and informed by "Alpha-verse Waymond" that there is a multiverse of infinite possibilities.

Evelyn is told that she is the only version of herself that can save the multiverse from the agent of chaos known as Jobu Tupaki. Jobu is a foreboding character set on imploding all existence through the creation of an everything bagel that contains, well, everything. You read that right. An everything bagel that holds the entirety of space and time is truly the least bizarre part of this all-encompassing tale.

Evelyn must learn to harness her infinite skills and memories acquired through all alternate realities in the multiverse, doing so through seemingly bizarre decisions that alter her timeline (cue eating chapstick and self-inflicted paper cuts). From Kung Fu master to movie star, Master Chef to … a literal rock, Evelyn can instantly "upload" necessary skillsets in her pursuit of stopping Jobu Tupaki, making her an unlikely heroine.

Ripe with a surprisingly coherent smattering of film influences from The Matrix to Ratatouille, and even Michelle Yeoh's own performance in Crouching Tiger, Hidden Dragon, the frenetic dialogue and dizzying edits make for a wildly unpredictable story. Hold on for a wonderfully bumpy ride where the simplest of choices can alter an infinite number of realities.

If the film sounds bizarre that's because it truly is, but in one of the most interesting and hilarious ways I've seen for some time. Expect lots of buzz come awards season for both cast and crew, as Everything Everywhere is bound to impress critics with its imaginative exploration of the multiverse theory, including an alternate reality where humans possess hot dogs for fingers (again, you read that right). This film truly is everything, everywhere, all at once.

If you are keen to delve into more films that explore theories of the universe(s) check out my recommendations below.

1.

Interstellar 2.

Doctor Strange 3.

Looper 4.

Arrival

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MAY 2022 | SEASIDEMAGAZINE.CA 67

Your

Local Garden Resource Guide Eurosa Farms and Three Sheeps to the Wind Family Farm

Proud members of the Saanich Peninsula community for 43 years. Visit our farm stand at 1246 for flower off sales as well as eggs and seasonal produce.

Fundraising and Tours available for groups: info@eurosa.bc.ca.

1246 Greig Avenue, Brentwood Bay

Family Owned & Operated Michell Valley Plants is entering its 14th year on the Saanich Peninsula, providing outstanding colour and amazing scents to our community, the Gulf Islands and all the way to Sooke.

We pride ourselves on stocking non-gmo veggie starts (locally sourced when possible), herbs, seeds, fruits and berries. We also carry a wide variety of perennials, roses, small shrubs and vines … and fertilizers and soils too! Our 200+ varieties of basket stuffers and bedding plants offer endless choices.

Gift Certificates are also available for that special “gardener” in your life.

Find us on Instagram @michellvalley or Facebook: @michellvalleyplants.

250.886.0494 | michell-valley-plants.business.site 2451 Island View Road, Saanichton

Quality Plants Knowledgeable Staff • Almost any space can be made into a garden...

• All you need is inspiration, beautiful plants and some good advice.

Growing strong roots for 30 years!

• Our friendly staff can help you choose the right plants, and will make sure you have all you need to get growing.

250.656.0384 | www.RussellNursery.com 1370 Wain Road, North Saanich

Follow us on Instagram!

Local Family-Run Patio Gardens is a unique Garden and Home shop with a variety of annuals, perennials, shrubs, vines, indoor plants, ceramic pots, soil , garden and home décor and much more. We are also famous for our large selection of beautiful Hanging Baskets.

Open Tuesday through Saturday from 9-5; Sunday 10-4; closed Mondays.

250.652.8338 www.patiogardens.ca 6536 West Saanich Road, Saanichton

SEASIDE HOMES

by Janice Henshaw | photos by Amanda Cribdon Photography

Goodbye

Sweet Routines

Hello Open Roads!

FAMILY LIVING IN AN RV

MAY 2022 | SEASIDEMAGAZINE.CA 69

Tonight is the last night you will sleep in your cozy warm bed, safe from the elements, in the house you love in your oh-so-familiar neighbourhood. In the morning, you will wake up, pack last-minute things, lock the door and shepherd the kids into your recreational vehicle (RV). And then … the adventure will begin – living a new life, one without a lawn, a mortgage or fixed destinations – a life free of routine. You will be on the road discovering beautiful places and experiencing memorable adventures; anywhere and everywhere!

This is the dream that Amanda, Jeff and their nine-year-old son have made real, and they are happy to say that the RV lifestyle suits them just fine. In fact, they love it. During the winter, they stay at an RV park in Saanich or the Metchosin area where their son goes to school. Both parks have ocean access, so they can enjoy lovely views and beach walks without having to shoulder a huge mortgage 70 SEASIDEMAGAZINE.CA | MAY 2022

or high property taxes. They have enjoyed lots of travelling, through Washington, Oregon, California and twice to Arizona. Last spring, they travelled across Canada and stayed all summer in Prince Edward Island; they plan on heading east again this summer as soon as school is out. Their son doesn't just know the provinces on a map; he has experienced every one of them.

Jeff is a stay-at-home dad and does all the maintenance work on the RV, while Amanda works remotely for a non-profit educational organization. Both grew up living overseas and often moved around.

After living for 12 years on Vancouver Island, the longest they have lived in one place, they felt "stuck" and knew that something had to change. They thought about an international move, or selling their home and living in an RV – a lifestyle that would allow them to travel, experience new adventures and spend as much time as possible outside. They chose the RV option.

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After having a child, Amanda says she felt societal pressure to live the conventional way. "I felt like, OK, I am a working parent now, and my kid goes to school, we live in one spot, and if we can afford it, a vacation to Disneyland or Mexico, those are the things that we 'should' do." When that vision morphed into an RV lifestyle, a few people raised red flags, but that didn't stop Amanda and Jeff. "We've learned that once you do something authentic and aligned to your values, it feels like the right thing as a family."

Amanda says they value the school community that their son is part of and are happy to join new communities as they travel. Jeff may be outside doing something on the RV or fixing something, and Amanda says people just come by and offer help or knowledge. "It's much more of a communal living experience than being isolated in a house."

Like most RVers, Amanda and Jeff have found economical ways to travel. If they roll in late after a full day of driving, they like to stay

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72 SEASIDEMAGAZINE.CA | MAY 2022

Interested in RV travel with kids? Check out this great website – www.crazyfamilyadventure.com. This couple travels with four kids and two dogs. Their website provides a ton of information on RV life. Mom Bryanna Royal writes that it is not a perfect life, but they are OK with the daily challenges and focus instead on "the amazing things" that full-time family travel brings to their family.

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Amanda Cribdon Photography

overnight at casinos or truck stops. "We've stayed in some great truck stops with showers, groceries, restaurants, pharmacies and doctors because they are geared up for truck drivers who live on the road.

"The good ones are excellent, and we just drive through the bad ones and leave." Casinos in the U.S. are a good stay, too; some offer to pick up RVers in a golf cart, drive them to the casino and give them a $25 to $30 voucher which thrifty travellers can use to buy dinner.

For more extended stays, provincial and state parks are lovely, but in summer, space is limited due to the number of people on the road.

While staying at their current RV park in Saanich, the family's expenses include $1,000 per month for the RV space and hookup to electricity, internet, power, water, septic, trash and taxes. Jeff and Amanda have recently purchased a new larger RV, a 41-foot long Solitude fifth-wheel trailer. It has four slide-outs that provide additional floor space, and the inside is well designed and attractively finished. Major appliances in the rear living area include a gas fireplace and built-in TV, a full-sized fridge, oven and microwave.

Other features include a pantry, glass-fronted cabinets, dining room area and living room. Their trailer is full of light because it has large view windows all around.

Storage space has been designed everywhere in this deluxe RV, which makes living in a smaller space much more manageable. Their son's bedroom has a queen-size bed and an upper bunk, a desk, a chair and a barn door. The bathroom has a skylight, a roomy shower, sink and toilet. In the main bedroom at the front of the trailer, there is a king-size bed with side tables and floor-to-ceiling cupboards.

A dehumidifier keeps the moisture down, and Jeff plans to add a washer/dryer combo. Heating options include electric baseboards, a heat pump, a propane furnace and a fireplace. There are three air conditioning units, one of which is the heat pump. Jeff has added combination locks for safety, as trailer locks are notoriously insecure, and they have three methods of communication – cell phones, satellite messaging and ham radio. They also have an emergency location beacon.

"We started gradually downsizing, keeping furniture and 'stuff' in a storage unit, but after a year, we realized we hadn't needed any of it, so we sold it all," said Amanda. They purge their belongings regularly to maintain space, and their son enjoys donating or giving things to friends. "Jeff is the one who has all the toys; he loves to tinker. My toys are books and puzzles," said Amanda. She has a special carrying case for puzzles that keeps all the pieces in place. Oversized items, such as sports equipment, are stored in compartments below the main trailer floor and accessed outside. "Most people buy bigger and bigger houses and fill them with more and more stuff. But for us, the memories and the experiences are in us and not in the stuff we have."

Jeff adds: "Don't be afraid of trying something different."

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Hot Properties

For Sale on Vancouver Island

SAYWARD HILL CONDO $1,850,000

CURTEIS POINT

Providing unsurpassed and direct ocean, mountain and island views while overlooking beautiful Cordova Bay Golf Course! This exceptional home is in a boutique style 18-suite 2007 concrete & steel building. The openplan design is full of light with 9' ceilings, 2BD/2BA + Media room in 1,844sf and in excellent condition. 2 parking spaces & separate storage. MLS 898930

Located at the end of a quiet street on desirable Curteis Point, this beautiful 3 bed/3 bath family home offers many lifestyle options. Tastefully updated and well maintained, you’ll feel welcome from the moment you enter. A triple garage, beautiful ocean views and south facing landscaped gardens complete this desirable package. MLS 898192

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SAYWARD HILL TOWNHOUSE $1,998,000

END UNIT TOWNHOME $949,000

This 2 bed/2 bath suite Features a stylish & bright interior with lots of natural sunlight & scenic views out to Sooke Hills. Gourmet kitchen features: quartz counters, pantry, quality cabinetry, premium appliances & bar seating for casual meals. Dining room encourages entertaining & opens to inviting living room with gas fireplace. MLS 890141

1832 sq. feet with 3 bed/3 bath. This 2013 built home presents an open concept kitchen, dining room and living room. Master and ensuite on the main plus a 2nd master and 3rd bedroom on the upper floor. This home exemplifies superior finishings with granite countertops throughout, 9 Ft. ceilings, SS appliances, wood floors and heated floor in ensuite. MLS 898626

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PINNACLE PENTHOUSE! $3,150,000

WATERVIEW HOME IN HUMMINGBIRD VILLAGE

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SO LD

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24-2740 Stautw Rd – $749,500

This STUNNING near-new suite of 2,022sf, features 360° of unsurpassed views and incredible sunrises and sunsets from every angle. All the designer elements you can dream of plus 2 view balconies AND your own private elevator to a ROOFTOP PATIO with outdoor kitchen & private HOT TUB. Dble garage + extra storage. MLS 896728

Ingrid Jarisz* 250.656.4626

(personal real estate corp*) 74 SEASIDEMAGAZINE.CA | MAY 2022

3 Bed, 3 Bath Custom Built immaculately cared for home with gorgeous ocean and island views in this gated 45+ community. Downstairs includes 1 bedroom suite easily converted to 2 bed-rooms. Conveniently located close to Saanichton, Peninsula Hospital, the airport, ferries and Sidney.

MLS 898298 MH Collective | Holmes Realty 250.656.0911 www.mhcollective.ca

W E ST COAST G A R D E N E R

by Colin Eaton, Garden City Tree & Landscape Ltd.

Do Your Landscape Ideas Need a Professional Designer?

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landscape can be fun and rewarding. If it is a simple design, you can use grid paper to create a scaled layout that includes the dimensions of certain elements.

However, mistakes can be costly with a complicated residential or commercial project that goes beyond your skill set. For this reason, you should use a landscape design for a project with any degree of complexity. That "plan" can provide the following benefits.

• Planning of each step of the build; • Knowing how much effort and time each task will take; and • Knowing the tools, equipment and materials that will be required, crucial to ensure the project is completed within your budget.

As the complexity of the project grows, so does the need for more advanced design abilities and knowledge.

Bylaws vary considerable from one municipality to the next, so what might have worked in Saanich may not work in View Royal.

Ensure you are up to date on your local bylaws; having a clear understanding of what is needed for your district and how that relates to your project will avoid penalties, stop work orders or having to rip out your new landscape. A professional designer must know their local bylaws!

On the design front, a professional landscape designer with the right experience can incorporate CAD (computer automated drafting) and 3D modeling software to provide a customer with exceptional detail and vision before any breaking of ground.

Imagine that for a minute – you can see what the completed project will look like before the project starts! If you do elect to hire a professional designer, keep these things in mind: • Choose a designer with the right level of expertise for your project; • Check your designer's portfolio to ensure they are capable of taking on the project you have in mind; • Ask the designer what landscape contractor they have worked with in the past; • Reach out to the landscape contractor to determine the quality of the design. Problems can develop if the designer's ideas are beyond the capabilities of a landscape contractor; • The best time to approach a design/build company is during the winter months. Expect there will be delays if you are looking for a design in the middle of the busy season; and

• A properly completed professional design provides a clear understanding of the cost of your project. It will provide the necessary dimensions and volumes of stock and materials required allowing for efficient estimating by any experienced contractor.

I have been a landscape professional in excess of 20 years and I have experienced the benefits of working with a quality professional landscape designer. A proper design allows the homeowner or business owner direct control over the cost and completion of a project. You would never build a home without a blueprint and I recommend not building a landscape without the same blueprint.

Success is found with a professional landscape design.

He ad s

Creating a new landscape or rescuing an existing

to grap

“

Janis brought enthusiasm, charisma and creative ideas to our set. As small business owners with a young family, life is hectic and Janis was able to accommodate our schedule.

She captured our passion and excitement through her lens and we highly recommend working with her. ~ Andrew & Vanessa Johnson, Bicycle Pizza

Want to Elevate Your Brand? Chat with Janis at:

250.882.0092 · WWW.JANISJEAN.COM MAY 2022 | SEASIDEMAGAZINE.CA 75

TA K E N O T E

by Jo Barnes

Artist-Directed Exhibitions

ONGOING IN MAY

May 13-19 Anything Goes May 20-26 A Sense of Wonder May 27-June 2 Youth/Student Exhibition

ArtSea Gallery Tulista Park, 9565 Fifth Street, Sidney ArtSea reopens its gallery to showcase a variety of artists presenting painting, poetry works, jewelry and more. www.artsea.ca/events

Live Music

ONGOING IN MAY 7:30PM

May 7 Scott Cook | May 13 Clanna Morna

Brentwood Bay Village Empourium 2 - 7103 West Saanich Rd. Brentwood Bay Come enjoy live music at the Empourium! A variety of entertainment will be featured including music, magic and performance art. Advance table reservations can be made online at empourium.ca/events.

Open House

MAY 1

Central Saanich Lawn Bowling Club Centennial Park, 1800 Hovey Road, Central Saanich Interested in learning a new activity? How about lawn bowling? Wear shoes without heels. Free event. For info: 250-652-4774. csaanichlawnbowls@hotmail.com https://sites.google.com/site/csaanichlawnbowls/home

Spring Reading Series: Cedar Bowers & Grant Hayter-Menzies Laforme

7:30PM

MAY 14

2PM & 7:30PM

Mary Winspear Centre 2243 Beacon Avenue, Sidney It’s a story about a group of Southern women in northwest Louisiana who share deep bonds of friendship and understand the value of this when life presents challenges. Tickets available at www.thepeninsulaplayers. ca and also www.marywinspear.ca.

Peninsula Newcomers Club Luncheon

MAY 12

11:30AM-2PM

Location TBA Welcoming women to the Peninsula since 1987! Doors open at 11:30 a.m. Pre-booking required. “Growing up Elizabeth May: the Making of an Activist”: A talk with Dr. Sylvia Olsen and Cate May Burton. For further details: www.peninsulanewcomers.com

Teen Tours (age 11-16)

MAY 20 9AM-5PM

Hop on the Panorama bus and head off to enjoy a great afternoon of fun as local tourists! Trip includes visit to Quazar’s Arcade, Fisherman’s Wharf, and the inner harbour. www.crd.bc.ca

New to Watercolours: Spring Flower

MAY 22

9:30AM-3:30PM

McTavish Academy of Art

MAY 6 7PM

The Shoal Centre 10030 Resthaven Drive, Sidney The Sidney LitFest will feature authors Cedar Bowers and Grant Hayter-Menzies reading from and discussing their latest books on Further information sidneyliteraryfestival@ gmail.com. Tickets at Tanner’s Books, and online: sidneyliteraryfestival@gmail.com

MAY 6 5-9PM MAY 7 10AM-5PM

Mary Winspear Centre 2243 Beacon Avenue, Sidney This unique shopping experience features carefully selected collective goods from 60+ artisans including art, jewelry, clothing, home and décor, health and beauty and sustainable items. Food trucks; live music; $5 admission. www.marywinspear.ca/event/crafted-farmhouse-market 76 SEASIDEMAGAZINE.CA | MAY 2022

MAY 12 & 13

Panorama Recreation | Downtown Victoria

12:30 – 3PM

Crafted Farmhouse Market

Peninsula Players presents: “Steel Magnolias”

1720 McTavish Road, North Saanich Have you always wanted to paint? Are you a little hesitant about trying watercolours? Come enjoy this delightful art form in a supportive and friendly environment. Instructor Bryony Wynne-Jones is a talented artist who loves to paint and impart a love of painting in others. Class is limited to maximum of 10 students per session to ensure physical distancing. www.mctavishacademy.ca

Sidney Concert Band presents “Carnival of the Animals”

MAY 29 2PM

Mary Winspear Centre 2243 Beacon Avenue, Sidney A variety of selections including The Lion King, A Circus Suite and Carnival of the Animals. The afternoon event also features vocalists Nicola Hestnes and Jim Kingham, as well as guests the Trounce Alley Quartet. Tickets are $20 per person; purchase at marywinspear.ca or call 250-656-0275. www.sidneyconcertband.ca/practices

ONGOING

Repair Café North Saanich May 21 | 11am – 2pm St. John’s United Church

Do you have a household item that’s broken?

Rather than toss it away, bring it the Repair Café and get it repaired! It’s a free meeting place where you can tap into voluntary repairers with skills in sewing, carpentry, electrical and bikes who will help fix your item on the spot.

For details and to volunteer: repaircafenorthsaanich.ca Email: repaircafenorthsaanich@gmail.com

Toastmasters for Seniors (Virtual) Tuesdays | 10-11am

This is a wonderful opportunity, via Zoom platform, for seniors to speak and socialize. For online meeting details, email mastermotivators4671@gmail.com with subject “Seniors Toastmasters”. www.1288.toastmastersclubs.org

Monthly Giveaway! #loveyourlocal with the monthly Seaside Magazine giveaway box, filled with amazing gifts from our local businesses.

HOW TO PLAY? Find the image of the box hidden somewhere in this issue.

Visit www.seasidemagazine.ca/SeasideBox

by May 31st to let us know where you found it. *one entry per person, per issue. Each entrant is eligible to win the Seaside box giveaway no more than once per calendar year.

Caregivers Connect: BC's Virtual Support Group 2nd & 4th Thursdays | 2-3:30pm

This virtual support group brings people from across the province together twice a month around a mutual experience of caregiving for a family member or friend. This is a time for reassurance, where caregivers can realize they are not alone. Pre-register each week to attend. Visit www.familycaregiversbc.ca or Call toll free 1-877-520-3267 extension 1.

Sidney Sister Cities Association Virtual Meeting 3rd Thursday

The group remains active during the pandemic! They are also being joined by members from Anacortes Sister Cities Association and hope to be attending their meetings over the coming months. For information on how to join our virtual meetings, please contact the Secretary at tecarrier2@gmail.com.

Saanich Peninsula Business for Business Network Virtual Meeting Thursdays | 8-9:30am

The Saanich Peninsula Chapter of BforB is a peersupport (mastermind) group for local business owners and leaders of professional practices. Guests are welcome, at no charge. For current members and other details at bforbnetworks.com.

For info: westwriter.today@gmail.com.

Thanks to March’s Community Partners: Snowdon House Gourmet & Gifts Author Valerie Green • Cordova Candle Co. Stonehouse Pub • RockCoast Confections

Congratulations to March’s winner, Robert B.

Have something for Take Note?

Email takenote@seasidemagazine.ca MAY 2022 | SEASIDEMAGAZINE.CA 77

Last Word

from the

Editor-in-Chief

Allison Smith As I sit here writing this month's column, despite today's rainy forecast the sun is streaming in my window and I can hear birds happily twittering away. It seems a good omen for things to come; spring is here in all its green glory, summer is on the horizon, and hope has arrived.

When I give this issue a final read before sending it off to press, a strong theme emerges: while our focus is on family, the issue is also full of stories of looking forward and plans for the future. Perhaps we just can't help ourselves, in this time of fresh starts and renewal!

In the coming months, farm stands and markets will be overflowing with produce; in "One Food, Three Ways" (pg. 18) Sous Chef Katrina Archibald shares some of her favourite ways to use the local zucchini harvest.

Also looking ahead to a local harvest are the young men from Farm or Die ("Living Off the Land," pg. 52), who hope to "create access to good food and increase people's food literacy."

Local Patricia Pearson is on a fresh path and looking forward to the future – she recently welcomed a new addition to her family, and shares the story of her adoption journey on page 10.

In working with the Youth Action Team at Shoreline Medical, Whitney Welsh, Youth Action Coordinator at Shoreline, feels "more hope than anything she's done before" when talking about the future of youth mental health after Covid ("Inside Out," pg. 39).

And if your hope for the upcoming season is to try something new, we've got ideas for that too, with a Beginner's Guide to Backyard Chickens (pg. 30) or Coral Payne's helpful hints on how local women can get involved in sailing (pg. 13).

Our hope at Seaside is always that you enjoy our stories as much as we enjoy gathering and sharing them with you, and as always we so appreciate your support!

Here's to a wonderful sunny spring and summer.

n o s i l l A

Photo by Janis Jean Photography. Clothing provided and styled by Cottons and Blues. For more, visit www.cottonsandblues.com.

WO R D J U M B L E

She had to do this to get her lover to marry her: WCNRO INCGI ARGEGA IRWEER

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

Jumble Solutions Answer: Wring crown • icing • garage • rewire

This jumble was created by The Blue Sheet Club, a group of brain injury survivors. The Cridge Centre for the Family's Brain Injury Services provides independent housing with support for survivors of brain injury. Through the development of support groups like The Blue Sheet Club, we strive opportunities for personal development Reach outtotoprovide a wider and reintegration in the community.

Creating Victoria and Vancouver Word Jumbles are a great way to improve cognitive functioning. Plus they're fun too! Enjoy!

Island market.

Reach vicToria’s acTive 55+ consumers Be part of this informative

and fun to read magazine every last tuesday & thursday of the month in the times Colonist!

Close to half the adults in Greater Victoria are 55+.

They are active consumers with high disposable incomes and are devoted newspaper readers.

Over 68% read the Times Colonist every week looking to Victoria’s daily newspaper as the most valuable source for health, finance, travel and lifestyle information as well as news.

Reaching more than 236,000 readers every week!

To adverTise: 250.995.4464

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To subscribe: 250.382.2255

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timescolonist.com 7/28/20 1:36:42 PM MAY 2022 | SEASIDEMAGAZINE.CA 79

SIDNEY All Care Residence

Nothing brings us more joy than being surrounded by the love of family. Here at Sidney All Care Residence you can rest easy knowing your loved one’s care is in good hands, and regain the enjoyment of stress-free family time together. We encourage our families to be involved as much as possible, and as we move further away from the challenges of the last couple of years, we look forward to more laughter, more shared memories, and more precious moments that last a lifetime.

To learn more about how your family can become part of our All Care family, please contact our Community Relations Manager Sharon Unsworth at 778.351.2505 or sunsworth@allcarecanada.ca.

Proudly Offering Long Term, Respite and Palliative Care 778.351.2505 • www.allcarecanada.ca • 2269 Mills Rd, Sidney