Seaside Magazine November 2023 Issue

SEA SIDE M A G A Z I N E

Piping to Remember

YOUR SAANICH PENINSULA VOICE

NOVEMBER

2023

Lest We Forget

Whale Watching with the TSAWOUT NATION

MEET YOUR NEIGHBOURS THE SHOAL CENTRE STEPH’S DAY OUT THE CRAFT OF CARVING PET TALK HOLIDAY-PROOF YOUR HOME

WinFall 30 Days,

30 Chances

to Win!

Decorating Challenges FROM SMALL SPACES TO SPEAKEASIES

Curated European Fall Ensembles in natural fibres... ... and blends for an effortless style

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1017 Government St Victoria 250.383.3393 www.GLAMANDFAME.COM

Introducing a new generation

committed to ‘paying it forward’…

This month, as we remember previous generations who stepped up to take care of all Canadians and ensure we had a future, we love that our young caregivers today are passionate and excited to continue the legacy of improving our quality of life and providing our seniors a brighter future.

info@VictoriaSeniorCare.ca

250-589-0010

info@SidneySeniorCare.ca

250-589-0010

info@OakBaySeniorCare.ca

250-589-0010

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

EDITORIAL DIRECTOR DEBORAH ROGERS deborah@seasidemagazine.ca

TOP STORIES 12

GERALD PASH The Importance of Commemoration

43

PET TALK Navigating Holiday Hazards

24

IN FASHION Gearing Up for Fall: Fashion, Function & Fibres

51

ON DESIGN Christmas Decorating in a Small Space

36

ARTS SCENE Resonance & Remembrance

78

SEASIDE HOMES Make Over My Room!

SALES ACCOUNT MANAGERS STEVEN HALEY-BROWNING steve@seasidemagazine.ca JOCELYN DUNCAN jocelyn@seasidemagazine.ca KATHERINE KJAER katherine@seasidemagazine.ca

STAFF PHOTOGRAPHERS JANIS JEAN hello@janisjean.com KATHRYN ALVAREZ ms.kathryn.alvarez@gmail.com LEAH GRAY LeahGray@spirithills.ca TANYA MURCHIE murchie.tanya@gmail.com

THIS MONTH'S CONTRIBUTORS Annilee Armstrong, Jo Barnes, Susan Beiderwieden, Devon Bird, Sienna Bourdon, Jessica O’Brien Cameron, Jamila Douhaibi, Jennifer Etherington, Scottee Giles, Tabatha Golat, Heidi Hackman, Jesse Holth,Hayley Jackson, Randall Mang, Tilar J. Mazzeo, Colleen McNamee, Jacqueline Nicoll, Cassidy Nunn, Steve Sakiyama, Joan Saunders Marita Schauch, Stephanie Staples, Deborah Rogers, Laura Waters

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; visit www.seasidemagazine.ca/shop 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.

ON THE COVER Pipe Major Doug Foster.

See pg. 36. Photo by Leah Gray.

Contents NOVEMBER 2023

EVERY MONTH 8 11 17 18 23 24 28 30 33

First Word Letters Inside Out One Food, Three Ways Out for a …

Moment of Silence In Fashion Common Cents Steph's Day Out Little Adventures

36 43 44 46 51 53 54 57 58

Arts Scene Pet Talk Globehopping Screen Scene On Design Weatherwit New & Noteworthy The Natural Path Living Off the Land

61 65 66 69 72 78 87 91 94

Seaside Book Club Trade Student Spotlight Meet Your Neighbours Off the Vine From the Kitchen Seaside Homes Take Note Word Jumble Last Word

photo by Kathryn Alvarez Photography

HAPPY HOLIDAYS

2674 BEACON AVE, SIDNEY 250.814.6111 WWW.DAVIDSONCHAMBERS.COM

NOVEMBER 2023 YOUR SAANICH PENINSULA VOICE

Contributors

DEVON BIRD PAGE 24

JENNIFER ETHERINGTON PAGE 51

JESSE HOLTH PAGES 75 & 76

Choosing an all-day appropriate outfit can prove more challenging over the next months.

Being comfortable when temperatures vary shouldn't have to result in weather-related impulse purchasing. I encourage you to select fabrics and silhouettes that accommodate your lifestyle and personal expression without favouring function over fashion.

Decorating a small condo for Christmas requires creativity and space-saving solutions. Think outside of the box and decorate in ways you never have before.

Stick to a cohesive colour scheme, utilize ceiling space for hanging ornaments, and embrace minimalism to create a cozy holiday atmosphere.

Stories are what bind us together. They make us human. In this issue, I heard about the importance of remembering the past, especially events that are fading from our collective memory. I also learned that the SENĆOŦEN language is embedded with a special perspective – from the water, looking toward land.

HAYLEY JACKSON PAGE 78

JACQUELINE NICOLL PAGE 43

LAURA WATERS PAGE 18

I've always loved a challenge and I love the idea of taking someone's problem room and making it something special. This room was just wonderful to take on and transform. The clients were so lovely and had the most wonderful vintage pieces to play with. It made my job a dream.

In this issue, I focus on real-life situations possibly faced by pet owners and offer insights from animal professionals. I emphasize valuable, preventative solutions for learning and supporting the well-being of both you and your very beloved four-legged companions this holiday season.

I love experimenting with food in my kitchen and enjoy sharing my ideas and food with others. The sweet potatoes I grew up with were covered in marshmallows!

(No wonder I didn't like them.) They are a true delight with any meal, are so versatile and healthy, and also grown locally!

NOVEMBER 2023 | SEASIDEMAGAZINE.CA 7

First Word from the Publisher Sue Hodgson

Refresh, unwind, renew spirits … that's what a vacation is all about, and having just returned from an amazing time in Spain I was feeling pretty good. Then reality hit when I got home.

My 18-year-old Siamese cat, Bubbles, took a turn for the worse and decisions had to be made. She has been with us since the children were babies, and as the household emptied over the years, Bubbles continued to be my constant. She was my everything, really. I would come home and as soon as she heard me pull into the driveway, she was at the door waiting.

On October 7, that wasn't happening anymore. She needed me, and for three days I spent every second with her. We slept together, we ate together; I never left her, and on October 10, I knew it was time. The unconditional love our animals give us is so superior to anything I have experienced before. There are no expectations of giving back, except your presence, a few pats here and there, or a long snooze on your lap.

As adults, we can decide whether to be sad, grumpy, kind or generous, but these sweet animals give you their love no matter what. I will miss her so much, but she has reminded me again (we need those reminders) that life is so precious.

It will take a little time to shake off the sadness of losing Bubbles, and getting used to an empty house, but you know that I'll be looking for the positives and moments of joy that will inevitably be on the horizon. However you're feeling this month, I hope that this issue of Seaside Magazine brings you some entertainment and pleasure, that it pricks your interest and encourages you to try something new.

e d i s a Se Sue Photo by Janis Jean Photography.

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LETTERS Seaside Magazine welcomes your feedback! Send letters to the editor via allison@seasidemagazine.ca or post your comments on our Facebook wall! Letters may be edited for space and content.

Love this magazine! Clipping out all sorts of places that

I would like to mention how much I look forward each

I want to visit, booked tickets for a concert, watercolour class ... all from paying attention to the great stuff you have here. ~ Many thanks, Sue Schaefer

month to the Seaside Magazine; it's so helpful for locating locallymade items, health, etc.

Thanks for another great issue of Sidney's best magazine! ~ Elaine Jones

Great magazine. Thanks for shining lights all over our

Keep the magazine going; many thanks. ~ Carolyne Heard

Thank you for so many interesting articles. My favourite has to

beautiful Peninsula. ~ Terry Wright

be "Little Adventures." I have a granddaughter just like Cassidy's little girl. Just love the photo. Thank you for a great magazine. ~ Jennifer Viljoen

Thanks for your magazine. It's a lovely

You've created an amazing magazine and I have noticed it

way to start my Sunday. ~ Elizabeth Crust

keeps getting better … . ~ Jaine Lynnette

I love your magazine and look forward to

Love your magazine. Read almost every article. Beautifully

it every month. Keep up the great work! ~ VE

laid out. So glad I receive it in the Times Colonist. ~ Mary Kucera

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NOVEMBER 2023 | SEASIDEMAGAZINE.CA 11

GERALD PASH:

Advocating for Veterans

by Jesse Holth photo by Leah Gray

Retired Lieutenant Commander Gerald Pash has spent his life advocating for Veterans – through his role in radio broadcasting, supporting Veterans' organizations, commanding an Air Cadet Squadron, and as a public affairs officer for the Canadian Forces and the Royal Canadian Navy. He has emceed remembrance events commemorating the Battle of the Atlantic, the Battle of Britain, Canadian Peacekeeping missions, and Remembrance Day. I spoke with him about his life, the significance of Remembrance Day, and the importance of commemoration.

Can you tell me a little about yourself? What is your particular interest in commemoration?

My father, like so many, enrolled in the Canadian army shortly after the Second World War began. He was overseas when he became ill, suffered from bronchial bleeding, and was repatriated home to Canada. He was released and worked for Canada Bread for a while, but eventually ended up back in the hospital – he died four months after I was born.

This was the first connection to my interest in remembrance and commemoration. I've attended these ceremonies since I was a babe in arms. When my mother remarried in 1951, she married a member of the Royal Canadian Navy in Winnipeg. We moved to Victoria when I was about eight years old. I was in the army cadets, and when I graduated from Victoria High School, I got into broadcasting. I worked at radio stations in Victoria, Chilliwack, and the South Okanagan, and made sure we broadcast the Remembrance Day service every year.

12 SEASIDEMAGAZINE.CA | NOVEMBER 2023

At the radio station in Penticton, we hosted a live show for Veterans to share their stories, and made sure that remembrance was a topic of discussion every November. After 27 years in broadcasting with 17 years in the Okanagan, I moved back to Victoria, when the Navy opened a service-specific public affairs office, here in Esquimalt, in 1990. I ended up spending 22 years in public affairs. In 2012, I was appointed Citizenship Judge for British Columbia and served for six years. For the last four years I've had the pleasure and honour to emcee the ceremony for Central Saanich at Pioneer Park, now called HEL,HILEȻ (hul-he-look), and I'm looking forward to doing it again this year.

What is a special or significant memory that stands out in your mind?

On the occasion of the eighth annual Peacekeeping Veterans Commemoration in 2000, a new plaque was unveiled on the cenotaph in downtown Victoria, commemorating peacekeeping operations – I actually designed that plaque. There is a Canadian maple leaf surrounded by laurel leaves, inspired by the Canadian Medal of Valour and the Canadian Medal of Bravery. It also reads "in the service of peace" which is the reverse side of the United Nations Medal. It was forged in the HMC Dockyard.

Another one is the provincial ceremony for the repatriation of the sea.side.pdf

1

2023-10-16

4:56 PM

unknown soldier, who is buried in Ottawa. As part of that program, soil from each of the provinces was taken to Ottawa and put at the location where the unknown soldier is buried, at the National War Memorial.

My mother was a Silver Cross widow. Later in her life, she represented widows at the Remembrance event in Esquimalt and I escorted her – that was interesting in terms of completing the circle.

Can you speak to the importance of Remembrance Day and commemoration in general?

Contemporary remembrance, for most of us, is very different – about 80% of us were born after the Second World War, so any family history, even for later wars, is not necessarily apparent. It's pretty distant, whether it's a grandparent or even a great-greatgrandparent. It can be difficult to know how those family stories add to contemporary history, and the motivation to mark the event.

Canada is a wonderful country and we have had life for the choosing for eight decades. No one is expected to put their life on hold to enroll in the military and go to war, and yet this country from a population of 11 million came up with a fighting force of one million people during World War Two. It was embedded in the lives of those around us – and now the relationship and understanding isn't necessarily there. It's important for families and young people to know the stories.

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NOVEMBER 2023 | SEASIDEMAGAZINE.CA 13

fall WIN Sunday

NOVEMBER

A Month of Giveaways!

Monday

Tuesday

Look out for the Seaside Magazine ballot boxes at local businesses throughout November. There are 30 chances to win – we'll be drawing for all the prizes at the end of the month. Good Luck!

5

6

7

Amica Beechwood Village: Gift Basket ($100 value)

Hansell & Halkett Vintage Home Decor: $25 gift certificate

Sidney Harbour Dental: Electric toothbrush

Enter at: 2315 Mills Rd, Sidney

Enter at: 9833 Third St, Sidney

Enter at: Garden Court #105-2360 Beacon Ave, Sidney

12

13

14

Outlooks Design

by Ruffel & Brown: $100 voucher (towards any

Dancing Orchid: $25 gift certificate

Bough & Burl: Handcrafted cutting board ($250 value)

purchase of $1000 or more toward window coverings or closets)

Enter at: #101-9818 Third St, Sidney

Enter at: #104-2537 Beacon Ave, Sidney

The Dancing Orchid

Enter at: Pemberton Holmes Sidney, #107-2360 Beacon Ave, Sidney

Bough &

Burl

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20

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The Gentlemen's Cave: $50 gift certificate

Chef on the Run: $50 gift certificate

McTavish Academy of Art: 3D Ornaments Art Kit

Enter at: 2481 Sidney Ave, Sidney

Enter at: 9781B Second St, Sidney

($44.50 value)

Enter at: 1720 McTavish Rd, N. Saanich

CHEF ON THE RUN

HEALTHY MEALS, FRESH FOR YOU!

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10 Acres: $100 gift certificate

Hear Inc.: 2 sets concert earplugs ($150 value)

Ian Massender: Fire Safety Package including installation ($100 value)

Enter at: 7819 E Saanich Rd Unit F, Saanichton

Enter at: #107-2360 Beacon Ave, Sidney

Enter at: 9805 Seaport Pl, Sidney

We're celebrating the change of seasons with a huge giveaway!

This November Seaside Magazine has teamed up with local businesses to bring our readers a whole month of prizes. There's something to be won EVERY day, a real "WinFall" of gift certificates and products from all your favourite stores and businesses.

Wednesday

Thursday

Friday

Saturday

1

2

3

4

Provenance Fine Things: $50 gift certificate

Prairie Inn Neighbourhood Pub & Liquor Store: $50 gift certificate

Sidney BIA: $100 Sidney by the Sea gift certificate

Brentwood Bay Village Empourium: $25 gift certificate

Enter at: 7806 East Saanich Rd, Saanichton

Enter at: 2281 Beacon Ave, Sidney

Enter at: 7103 W Saanich Rd, Brentwood Bay

8

9

10

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Debbie Gray: $100 gift certificate for Gray’s Café

Saanich Physio: 45-minute massage

Rascals Pet Market: $75 gift certificate

Brown’s the Florist: $150 gift certificate

Enter at: #2-7865 Patterson Rd, Saanichton

Enter at: #5-7103 W Saanich Rd, Brentwood Bay

Enter at: 2499 Beacon Ave, Sidney

Enter at: 2536 Beacon Ave, Sidney

Enter at: Remax Camosun Sidney #14-2510 Bevan Ave, Sidney

PET MARKET PET MARKET

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Butik: EKRU coat – made in Europe

Muffet & Louisa: $50 gift certificate

Bosley's: $50 gift certificate

Focus Hair Design: $100 gift certificate

(value $189.95)

Enter at: #102-2360 Beacon Ave, Sidney

Enter at: #4-2353 Bevan Ave, Sidney

Enter at: #102-2557 Beacon Ave, Sidney

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Sweet Dreams Boutique: Queen Size Silk Pillowcase

Lilypad Lingerie: $75 gift certificate

Sidney All Care Residence: Gift basket ($100 value)

Davidson Chambers: $75 gift certificate

($79.99 value)

Enter at: 2492 Beacon Ave, Sidney

Enter at: #113-5325 Cordova Bay Rd at Mattick's Farm

Enter at: 2269 Mills Rd, Sidney

Enter at: 2674 Beacon Ave, Sidney

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30

Truth + Alibi Cannabis Co.: CBD Bath & Oil Basket

Star Cinema: 2 adult tickets + 2 small popcorn ($30 value)

HOW TO ENTER

Enter at: #103-2506 Beacon Ave, Sidney

butik

naturals

($150 value)

Enter at: 2410 Beacon Ave, Sidney

Enter at: 9840 Third St, Sidney

Each of the businesses listed is donating one great prize for Seaside Magazine's WinFall giveaway. Entries are limited to one per person, per day, per location. All 30 draws will be done at the end of the month and winners will be notified via phone and posted on the Seaside Magazine social media pages.

INSIDE OUT

by Dr. Sienna Bourdon Shoreline Medical Society

Flu, COVID and RSV Season is Fast Approaching – Are You Ready?

The 2023 fall season will bring influenza, respiratory syncytial virus (RSV) and Covid infections. It's time to bring out those face masks again, as well as consider the options for vaccination.

With more of us on the move, viruses are circulating.

Let's look at our neighbours in the southern hemisphere to see what to expect. In Australia, the flu season this year (2023) looked much like last year, with relatively low severity. In New Zealand, the flu season peaked early and has remained high from April to now.

The World Health Organization (WHO) recommends vaccination ahead of each flu season for certain groups, including older adults, children and healthcare workers. The vaccine is safe and effective in preventing the flu and reducing hospitalization or life-threatening complications like pneumonia.

While the flu is an annual winter problem to be confronted, many in the medical community are preparing for a "tri-demic" – an increase in cases of flu, RSV and Covid. We should all be aware and prepare for this possibility.

RSV, or respiratory syncytial virus, is actually very common.

According to Dr. Samir Sinha, Director of Geriatrics at Sinai Health and the University Health Network in Toronto: "Whenever we have cold and flu season, it's one of the main reasons why people end up in hospital and it causes a significant number of deaths every year.

"While RSV certainly can cause hospitalizations in younger

people, it really is older Canadians that actually bear the real brunt of this and represent over 80 percent of the deaths that happen from this virus," he added. An issue with RSV, unlike other respiratory diseases such as COVID-19, is the absence of a dedicated treatment for the infection. "What we do have is a vaccine that can prevent it in the first place."

The RSV vaccine now available in Canada can lower the risk of severe outcomes, particularly for older adults. In British Columbia, the RSV vaccine is available by prescription for private purchase at select pharmacies. It costs around $250 per dose and some private plans cover it.

Finally, Covid is still here and we will see new variants. As we go indoors and as the virus has a really good chance to spread, we'll need that added protection. With each new variant, there could also be differences in its impact on different ages, and how serious it is.

People aged six months and older can now get both an influenza and COVID-19 vaccine at the same time. If you have previously had a COVID-19 vaccine in B.C., you will be sent an email and text with a link to book an appointment. Invitations to book an appointment will be rolled out starting with people at high risk for infection or severe disease.

If you are one of those people who is at increased risk for any of these viruses, please get vaccinated.

“Immunization is the best protection against the flu.” - Island Health Influenza, or the flu, is a highly contagious respiratory illness. Infection can spread 24 hours before and up to 5 days after symptoms appear. Immunization is your best protection to stay healthy, especially this year as COVID-19 continues to circulate in our community.

Scan this QR code and find out about immunization and where to get your free flu shot.

250-656-2948 sphf.ca NOVEMBER 2023 | SEASIDEMAGAZINE.CA 17

SWEET POTATO APPETIZERS 2 orange sweet potatoes, roasted pinch of salt and pepper 1 cup shredded cheddar cheese 2/3 cup cooked rice (I choose brown basmati) 1 tsp garlic 1 tbsp chopped white onion 2 tbsp chicken stock 1 egg 1/4 cup flour 1 cup panko olive oil for frying

Dipping Sauce 2-3 tbsp mayo 1-2 tsp sriracha (to your spice preference)

PURPLE SWEET POTATO ICE CREAM 2 medium purple sweet potatoes

SWEET POTATOES 3 WAYS

4 tbsp Greek yogurt rose petal jelly to taste (for your sweetener)

by Laura Waters, "Retiring & Rewiring" Owner of Snowdon House Gourmet and Gifts – watch for pop-up stores photo by Janis Jean Photography

Sweet potatoes are a favourite of mine. They are rich in antioxidants, nutritious, high in fibre, rich in beta carotene and considered a healthy carb. This time of the year I think they’re at their finest, and we have local growers – always a reason to use such a versatile product. I’m always looking for an easy appetizer and the sweet potato balls fit that bill. I have frozen them prior to using the egg wash and batter and they freeze really well; when you’re ready to use them just thaw, dip in the batter and fry. The sweet potato salad is easy to make, looks wonderful and tastes great. The purple sweet potato ice cream is just a fun, funky dessert!

SWEET POTATO SALAD 2 purple sweet potatoes 2 orange sweet potatoes 10 small white baby potatoes olive oil to drizzle over potatoes for roasting salt and pepper

Salad 10 cups kale, chopped 1 apple, chopped 1/2 cup walnuts, roasted 1/2 cup pomegranate arils 1/2 cup crumbled goat cheese 2 hardboiled eggs

Dressing 3 tbsp crabapple or apple cider vinegar 1 tbsp nasturtium or red pepper jelly 1 tbsp Dijon mustard 1 garlic clove, minced 1/3 cup olive oil 1/2 tsp salt 1/8 tsp black pepper

For full recipes visit SEASIDEMAGAZINE.CA & click "Food" tab or email NEWS@SEASIDEMAGAZINE.CA NOVEMBER 2023 | SEASIDEMAGAZINE.CA 19

SIDNEY BY THE SEA GIFT CARDS now available for purchase

Participating businesses in downtown Sidney are now accepting Sidney by the Sea Gift Cards!

Gift cards make for a fantastic gift and can be purchased locally at the Sidney Information Centre at 2281 Beacon Avenue or online for direct mailing.

This program is managed and supported by the Sidney Business Improvement Area Society (Sidney BIA). hello@sidneybia.ca

Participating Businesses 3rd Street Cafe Atticus Beacon Landing Liquor & More Bosley's - Sidney Butik Naturals Cameron Rose Gifts Chef on the Run Davidson Chambers Departures Travel DGD Gifts Ecotopia Naturals Far & Away Adventures Fish on Fifth Flush Bathroom & Travel Essentials Hansell & Halkett Vintage Home Decor Haven Spa Home Hardware - Sidney House of Lily Koi Kiddin' Around La Boutique Lolly Gobble - Home Hardware Mary Winspear Centre Miss Bliss Boutique Moden

For more information visit

exploresidney.ca

Moden Essentials Moden Mens Muffet & Louisa Nest & Nook One Stop Furniture Provenance Fine Things Salvador Davis & Co Seawards Souvenir & Apparel Shai Thompson Image Consulting Shaw Centre for the Salish Sea Sidney Information Centre Simply Pure Ice & Water Sidney Museum Sidney Pier Hotel & Spa Small Gods Brewing Co. Tanner's Books The Children's Bookshop The Farmer's Daughter The Five & Dime Diner The Surly Mermaid Tivoli Gallery Victoria Distillers Waterlily Shoes

D O W N TO W N S I D N E Y

ExploreSidney.ca/Holidays

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Lest We Forget

"And they who for their country die shall fill an honored grave, for glory lights the soldier's tomb, and beauty weeps the brave."

—Joseph Drake

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22 SEASIDEMAGAZINE.CA | NOVEMBER 2023

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OUT FOR A … MOMENT OF SILENCE story and photos by Scottee Giles

Gore Park Tendrils of fog curled around Garry oaks, giving the morning an ethereal air as I slipped past a split rail fence into Gore Park. The mossy rocks and meadow grass blended with the pale yellow lichen hanging from trees like ancient spirits guarding the glade. A sense of peace settled into my bones as I set out for a solo hike in one of my favourite places.

There is something beautiful and unique to discover in every season here: an abundance of spring wildflowers, tall golden summer grass, a forest tapestry of fall colours and bright red arbutus berries that remain into winter. I paused to admire a northern flicker looking for breakfast, then set out on a meandering path covered with oak leaves and acorns.

This 16-acre park is a fragile Garry oak ecosystem and home to an abundance of plants and animals. The Coast Salish people have a long relationship with this land and traditionally harvested camas, other food, and medicine here. Signs direct visitors to stay on paths, keep pets leashed and to leave nature undisturbed.

A red-tailed hawk circled overhead as I passed fallen logs, snowberry, mahonia and rosehip. Footsteps brought me out of my reverie as an older gentleman walking a small dog came around the bend. The red poppy pinned to my well-worn sweater matched the one on his smart wool coat. We exchanged a "good morning" and continued on our way. I wondered how many decades he had been coming here to walk these trails, and how much had changed in the world in his lifetime. I took a moment to remember how connected we all are to each other, how fortunate that people give selflessly to protect their communities for generations to come. The words of a hymn for world peace ran through my mind: "dona nobis pacem."

As I crested another hill, the fog lifted and brilliant sunshine lit up the clearing. A chickadee tipped his black cap at me and called out a distinctive two-tone song, making me smile as I bid farewell to the stately old trees. Nature was ready for a season of rest and it was a great reminder to slow down, breathe deeply and recharge.

Things to Note: • One picnic table is available • There is limited parking, no washrooms • Entrance to the trails can be found on Greig Avenue in Central Saanich NOVEMBER 2023 | SEASIDEMAGAZINE.CA 23

I N FA S H I O N

by Devon Bird, MODEN

Gearing Up for Fall: Fashion, Function & Fibres With the last vestiges of summer disappearing into our collective rear-view, us West Coasters now must maneuver through our daily lives, but with the added task of gearing up to protect us from the wet, the muck, and all manner of sloshy substances kicked up off dreary rain-soaked streets.

Not only must we consider whether our outerwear is wet proof, but it also has to be properly insulated and appropriately layered as we can traverse several seasons all within one afternoon.

It is a general rule of thumb in fashion

that outfits become more dynamic and interesting the more depth they have.

Whether it be mixing textures, colours or patterns, the added dimension creates what we have come to refer to as "style."

I love to layer as it allows me to introduce elements to an outfit that are unexpected, unique to me, or offer a new appearance to an old favourite. But layering can come at the expense of comfort if not deftly executed, as the risk of overheating is a constant consideration during this transition time.

Shop locally this holiday season With locally sourced and imported products this is a foodie destination worth discovering! www.deepcovemarket.com

24 SEASIDEMAGAZINE.CA | NOVEMBER 2023

If you're someone who tends to run hot or is as committed to a layered look as I am, I encourage you to acquaint yourself with fibres that breath. One such fabric I always keep front and centre in my closet is organic cotton, or cotton blended with a cellulose-based pulp fibre such as modal or viscose. Modal specifically is a beautifully soft, resilient fabric that stays cool to the hand. Its silky texture feels great on the skin and can be layered easily without adding too much bulk and heat.

The same tenets apply for a fine wool such as merino. Unlike heavier wools, merino is incredibly breathable. It can release warmth from the body, allowing you to regulate your temperature more easily. This is a great quality should you want to add a cardigan or sweater over a dress shirt or under a jacket without running the risk of overheating.

If you want to add visual interest to an outfit but mobility is a consideration, try a vest in place of a jacket. Not only have sweater vests made a screaming comeback this season, but they provide depth and texture to a look without the weight and warmth of a cardigan or jacket. If knits aren't your thing, there is nothing more quintessentially West Coast than a chic quilted vest over a cable-knit sweater.

Should you find yourself on the opposite side of the spectrum and heat retention is more of a concern, embrace styles that have a cozier hand-feel such as corduroy as a replacement for denim during the cooler months. Corduroy, much like the sweater vest, is having a fashion renaissance and is offered in many different options from trousers and skirts to dresses and shirts. Not only does it add warmth, but also an interesting texture that can liven up an outfit with just a touch of nostalgia!

For more, visit www.modenboutique.com.

SEASIDE talks with Jessica O’Brien Cameron, CIBC Wood Gundy, about what's

in FASHION …

In the kitchen?

Counter décor! Vintage frame with artwork, crystal décanter. Minimal clutter. On your playlist? Lately I have been loving Country: Chris Stapleton, Luke Combs, Morgan Wallen. In home décor?

I love minimalistic modern farm … if that is even a thing?! I love mixing metals, candles and neutrals.

On your Netflix queue? Alone. This show is wild.

When you want to throw fashion out the window and be all about comfort? My men's H&M sweat suit in XS or Lulu leggings. When you don’t care how much it costs? As a Financial Planner, I care how much everything costs! When you need more than a clutch? My LV Carry All goes everywhere with me.

When you want a night out?

Atelier by Matt Jackson or the Farmer's Daughter. On your bedside table? Mophie 3-in-1 stand for MagSafe Charger. Charges my phone and watch. In your closet? Love a good colourful Zara pantsuit and my Denim Forum jeans.

In haircare? I try to use good quality shampoos and conditioners. I love Living Proof dry shampoo.

When adding sparkle to your outfit? That rarely happens: I am not a sparkly gal, per se. But if I add sparkle, it would be with a pair of fun earrings. On your skin? My It Cosmetics CC cream. I don't know what I would do without it! When you want to smell irresistible? Giving away secrets now!

Ambre Blends. I get compliments every single time I wear it. On your feet? I love my Banana Republic heels. During the day, my Nike Max Air Dawns.

On your luxury wish list? A Chanel purse!

In your makeup bag? Benefit cosmetics 24 hr Brow Gel and It Cosmetics mascara. In your bathroom cabinet? Charlotte Tilbury Magic Cream – it really is magic!

photos by Janis Jean Photography

What's Happening T I MM Y S HAPPY

November 27

Christmas 1

9

7

Timmy;s Happy Christmas 1974

4

Starring Tim Tamashiro MONDAY, NOVEMBER 27 7:30 PM

If you were around in the 1970s, then this show is for you. Tim Tamashiro presents a nostalgic journey down memory lane that will take you back to your childhood Christmases. With stories and music from that era, Timmy’s Happy Christmas, 1974 is sure to get you into the holiday spirit. You’ll relive memories from your childhood that still ring in your heart! The holidays are all about fun and happiness, so come experience them through the eyes of an 8 year old boy. It will be an evening of memories and laughter that you won’t want to miss.

It's a show that shares REAL memories… like how you might have snuck a peek at the bras in the wishbook. This show has girls' toys, boys' toys, games, and inflatable boxing gloves that you could pound on your sibling with.

This show has REAL classic TV commercials for Super Slider Snow Skates, Lite Bright, and Ktel Record Selector. This show has memories, stories, and music that will make you feel like you’re a kid again.

Hi, I’m Tim Tamashiro. From my years as radio host on CBC, and my decades long career as a singer, I’ve learned that the combined magic of stories with songs is a beautiful way to share memories with audiences. That’s why I created Timmy’s Happy Christmas 1974. It’s a holiday show aimed right at the heart of millions of Gen X’ers. They can bring their grandkids too!

The show is about an 8 year old boy named Timmy and the extraordinary memories he has from that Christmas of 1974.

He arrives home one day after school to find the brand new Sears Christmas Wishbook laying facedown on his doorstep.

The tsunami of thrills that come his way leading up to Christmas are the same memories that millions of kids from those days have too.

After debuting this show at The Jack Singer Concert Hall in 2021, I’m thrilled to now bring the show to the rest of Canada.

I’ll be joined by my extraordinary musician friends and a collection of songs that range from White Christmas to You’re a Mean One Mr. Grinch. We’ll have Charlie Brown moments, drinking Tang moments and I’ll even sing that Alvin and the Chipmunks tune with a helium balloon. Plus we’ll bring along a slideshow that makes the crowd laugh and gasp out loud.

The audience laughs harder at the slides than they do at my jokes!

So if you can literally smell the wood-burning set as it accidentally falls on the living room carpet… I’m sure you can imagine what fun we’ll have with Timmy’s Happy Christmas 1974.

Upcoming Events November

Debaters Live on Tour Holiday Special November 29 & 30

The Debaters Live on Tour is the comedy stage show where comics go toe to toe in a battle of laughs and logic and the audience picks the winner. Award-winning comedian and host, Steve Patterson brings two of Canada’s top headlining stand-up comics, Katie-Ellen Humphries and Graham Clark, to venues across Canada to delight crowds with an exhilarating exchange of facts and funny.

But that’s not all. Before Steve launches into the debate portion, The Debaters Live on Tour gets the holiday hilarity rolling with segments of smart stand-up comedy from all three of these world-class comics.

The Debaters Live on Tour Holiday Special features two debates in the format familiar to fans of the popular radio show The Debaters. Program creator and tour producer, Richard Side, is excited to present this extraordinary line-up that will deliver the festive fun and leave audiences debating their favourite punch-lines.

These all-new comedic clashes are for live audiences only and will not be recorded for broadcast. No two live shows are ever alike so get your tickets now for a once in a lifetime experience.

The Barra MacNeils November 19

Acrobat U2 Tribute First Chance Christmas Craft Fair Sidney Concert Band Remembrance Concert Blood Donor Clinic 6 Shaun Majumder 6 10-12 Hyprov ft. Colin Mochrie/Asad Mecci 14&15 O Christmas Tea 16-18 Barney Bentall & the Cariboo Express SPHA Christmas Bazaar 18 Christmas Vintage Retro Show 19 The Barra MacNeils 19 Tom Lavin & the Legendary 23 Powder Blues 24&25 Rancho Vignola Harvest Sale Tim Tamashiro 27 Timmy’s Happy Christmas 29&30 The Debaters Live Holiday Special 3 4-5 5

December 1-3 4 6&10 8-10 9 14 15 22-29 25 31

Peninsula Singers The Spirit of Christmas Blood Donor Clinic Wavelengths A Celtic Christmas Last Chance Christmas Craft Fair South Island Harmony The Season is ‘Round Again Festive Brass Reindeer Games Big Hank‘s Christmas Blues Show Snow White the Panto Community Christmas Dinner New Year’s Evening

A traditional favourite, Barra MacNeils’ East Coast Christmas is a treat for the whole family.

The five siblings are known for their brilliant instrumentals, ringing harmonies and delightful flair for storytelling. Their unique seasonal show is crafted each year to bring a special Celtic spin on traditional favourites and original east coast treasures with songs, stories and dance. Their stunning rendition of "O Holy Night" is just one of the many highlights that brings audiences to their feet. Fans can also look forward to gems like "Ave Maria", "Christmas in Killarney", and "Auld Lang Syne" among an array of originals and seasonal delights.

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

COMMON CENTS

by Randall Mang, Real Estate Advisor, Engel and Völkers Saanich Peninsula Specialist

NAVIGATING MORTGAGE LENDING’S HIGH SEAS Dr. Matthew Foulkes and his team are committed to providing all our current and new patients a relaxed environment with calm and quality care. Come visit our office and staff!

Our services include but aren't limited to: • Examinations & Hygiene • Crowns & Bridges • Complete & Partial Dentures • Restorations • Root Canal Therapy • Extractions Dr. Matthew Foulkes, BSc. Hon., DDS • Clear Aligner Braces

Accepting New Patients & Walk-ins are welcome

250-598-5441 | #230-4460 Chatterton Way

www.chatter tonwaydental.ca

We’re the local superhero... that you didn’t know about.

DISCOVER MORE: SP-CF.CA For over 20 years the Saanich Peninsula Community Foundation has been providing grants to local projects. From bike racks to camping gear, stream restoration to playground updates, SPCF has added the extra funds that strengthen our community.

Join us in the fight against under-funding.

YOUR COMMUNITY • YOUR GIFT • YOUR LEGACY • SP-CF.CA • 250-686-0260

28 SEASIDEMAGAZINE.CA | NOVEMBER 2023

Since early 2022, a surge in mortgage lending rates has reduced consumer purchasing power and placed a heavier financial burden on homebuyers and those facing mortgage renewal.

While higher rates have intentionally curbed market activity, deals are getting done. What matters most is that borrowers come to the table prepared. Saanich-based mortgage broker Reed Harris of Xeva Mortgage, which serves clients across British Columbia, says despite the interest rate squeeze: "Canadians remain good for their mortgages."

He says part of the reason the default rate remains "extremely low" (0.15% percent as of August, 2023) is because most mortgage holders renewing today previously qualified at 5.25 percent, due to the stress test. He says most lenders will generally seek to renew an existing mortgage without requiring the borrower to requalify. New buyers, or borrowers who prefer to switch lenders, must qualify at prevailing rates.

While banks and credit unions at the branch level tend to negotiate mortgage rates based on relationships – offering clients varying discounts on posted rates based on loyalty factors – lenders in the broker channel take a different approach.

Harris describes his preferred lenders as lean operators that compete aggressively on rate. "Our lenders compete by presenting their best offers upfront, so we aren't 'negotiating' in the classic sense."

There's more to choosing a mortgage than a sharp interest rate, however. Harris says the penalty for paying out a mortgage early or not porting a mortgage warrants attention. "Most borrowers aren't aware of the pre-payment penalty's magnitude until they find themselves facing it. Some lenders' penalty calculation can be triple or quadruple what others charge."

When it comes to qualifying for a loan at today's inflated interest rates, Harris says three primary factors come into play: the property price, the down payment and the borrower's income and relative debt. Harris says reducing debt prior to applying for a mortgage can make a bigger difference than having a slightly larger downpayment.

For example, he says eliminating a $500-per-month loan payment would add about $80,000 in borrowing power.

With uncertainty as to whether rates could fall soon or potentially continue to rise, the length of the financing term is a particularly hot topic. Harris says most of his clients are choosing one- to three-year term mortgages to avoid the resulting financial impact should rates rise even higher within those timeframes. Others, who believe rates could soon decline, are choosing variable rate mortgages, which will immediately reflect rate drops and also offer the option to lock in once fixed rates are more palatable.

While Harris admits "It's less fun to buy or renew at today's higher rates," he says: "with some lifestyle and spending adjustments, you can get through."

DON BELLAMY info@donaldbellamy.com

DAN JURICIC

danjuricic@gmail.com

JEFF BRYAN

jeffbryan@shaw.ca

BROOKE MILLER brookemiller@shaw.ca

LINDSAY CASEY lindsay@sellingseaside.ca

RON PHILLIPS ronsoffice@shaw.ca

DEBBIE GRAY sagegray@shaw.ca

KAREN DINNIE-SMYTH kdinnie-smyth@shaw.ca

ANTHEA HELMSING antheahelmsing@gmail.com

CRAIG WALTERS craig@craigwalters.net

JENNA TURNBULL info@jennaturnbull.ca

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

by Stephanie Staples | photos by Leah Gray

Carving Time I don't know when the thought of sitting on the beach whittling a stick felt appealing to me, but when I found out that local woodcarver and 13-year veteran of the craft, Doug Philp (of DCCP Creations) was offering up lessons for absolute beginners, I was all in!

In his cozy carving shop amidst the wonderful smell of shaved wood, surrounded by some of his stunning creations in various stages of completeness, I was witness to a master sharing his craft and I was brought back to somewhere we all need to go from time to time – the beginner's mindset.

The sign of a good teacher is making the complex seem simple and making your student believe that they can create what they think, at this moment, is impossible.

Lesson 1: Safety first. "I'm not teaching you this so you can hurt yourself," Doug says seriously. He goes through the safety equipment, shows how and why the Kevlar gloves work, and points out a few scars from when he learnt a lesson the hard way. This is not the most fun part of the day, but it is perhaps the most important. As he shows, demonstrates and allows me to practise with each tool: knives, chisels, gouges, V-tools – each designed for a specific task – I can already see a trip to Lee Valley in my future!

We discuss wood grains and sharpening the tools and talk about the "six easy steps" of wood carving: deciding what you want to carve, making a drawing or plan, finding the right wood, roughing out the piece, modelling, detailing and finishing. I think the word "easy" is in the eye of the beholder as I imagine carving the equivalent of a stick man out of wood but nonetheless, Doug's belief that I can do this seems stronger than my belief that I can't.

I confess, holding that smooth basswood in my gloved hand and practising the half a dozen different types of cuts that will apparently allow me to carve both a spoon and a Tree Spirit felt amazing. I felt like I could have just carved all day without caring if I made a thing! Many senses were stimulated – sight, smell, touch, even a little sound – and a small bowl of chocolates would have really rounded out the occasion!

Lesson 2: Let the carving begin. I am both excited and nervous to be working on my first project. Doug has sketched the smiling Tree Spirit (as opposed to the serious one, at my request) into the wood and now it is time to execute the cuts that I learned last week. It requires my total focus and while I am expertly coached, I take each cut very seriously – it's not like you can glue the wood back on! (Well actually, I found out you can – but let's not!) The 30 SEASIDEMAGAZINE.CA | NOVEMBER 2023

90 minutes fly by and as I examined my block, it definitely looked like … something!

Before my final lesson, I found myself at the Nanaimo Museum. I was drawn to the carvings and totems like never before. I touched each piece and looked closely to imagine which tools the artist used to create the details. I had a whole new appreciation for the art that I would never have had if not for taking my lessons. I realized that even if I never carve another thing, this experience has already been worth it.

Lesson 3. Well, I don't want to brag but at the conclusion this piece of wood actually looks like something – it even looks like a Tree Spirit! It may be a little asymmetrical, it may be a little imperfect, but it definitely doesn't look like a block of wood anymore! Under Doug's caring guidance, I did, as the carvers say, carve away everything that wasn't the Tree Spirit. With a little bit of varnish and maybe a Santa hat, I would have my first homecarved holiday decoration!

While I'm quite certain you will not see any of my creations at the ArtSea Gallery, that does not diminish the pleasantness of this art for me. The pure joy of turning nothing into something, watching someone shine as they shared their passion, and the meditative focus that cleared my mind as each shaving of wood dropped to the floor, is success enough for me!

For more information or to inquire about lessons visit www.DCCPCreations.com.

the 34th

First Chance

Last Chance

November 4-5

December 8-10

Sat 10-5, Sun 10-4

Fri 2-8, Sat 10-5, Sun 10-4

90+ Juried Artists & Artisans

Live Music | Hourly Give-A-Ways | Fabulous Food

Mary Winspear Centre Dress him here for the Holidays

2243 Beacon Ave., Sidney BC

$5 Admission | Children Under 12 Free

Menswear by Moden. Open 7 days a week.

778.426.0081 • 9813 Third Street, Sidney

www.modenmens.com

www.firstandlastchance.ca NOVEMBER 2023 | SEASIDEMAGAZINE.CA 31

Cafe Treats CHRISTMAS MARKET December 2nd, 2023 • 10am - 4pm Food & Coffee Carts • Live Music Great Artisan Vendors

CHECK OUT OUR WREATH MAKING WORKSHOPS ON OUR WEBSITE !

6536 West Saanich Rd. Saanichton www.patiogardens.ca

9805 Seaport Place, Sidney 250-220-8008 |10acres.ca

We will remember them.

We will thank them. And we will care for them, every day. You can too, with a gift in your Will for Broadmead Care, that will help ensure comfort and care for the veterans who live in Broadmead Care Homes.

In fond memory of our dear friend, Murray Edwards.

You will never be forgotten.

1920 - 2023

We are privileged to serve them.

Visit www.broadmeadcare.com/legacy-giving-at-broadmead-care or call 250.658.3226 to learn more.

Major (Ret’d) Murray Edwards, PPCLI Veteran of the Second World War and the Korean War, and the Canadian Armed Forces.

32 SEASIDEMAGAZINE.CA | NOVEMBER 2023

BECKLEY FARM LODGE | HARRIET HOUSE NIGEL HOUSE | REST HAVEN LODGE VETERANS HEALTH CENTRE VETERANS MEMORIAL LODGE Broadmead Care Society is a registered charity. #129290383 RR0001

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

by Cassidy Nunn | photo by Nunn Other Photography

My earliest vivid childhood memory is the day I discovered preschool. My mum, baby brother and I were at a local playground and I was happily playing alongside a large group of children who were just slightly older than my two-and-a-half years. A whistle rang out and suddenly I found myself alone as the kids all ran away from the playground and formed a line in front of the stairs to the nearby building. I decided that I had better join this line as well, and did so without hesitation. My mum rushed to fetch me from the back of the line, but not before one of the teachers noticed me and my apparent enthusiasm.

She sent my mum home with some information on the preschool and encouraged her to send me if I was keen.

The school was in the bottom of a church; there was a carpeted area for singalongs, circle time and doing the hokey pokey. Tiny desks with matching teensy chairs took up part of the room while another corner was filled with books, toys and comfy pillows to sit on. I went for half days, giving my mum I'm sure a much-needed break from her energetic toddler. I believe the fact that I still have such fond memories of this time is a testament to the joy and learning I experienced there.

My three-and-a-half year old has just started her first year of preschool. She spent the last while attending an incredible daycare a few days a week; it was a tough decision to leave such wonderful care, but from my own happy memories of preschool I wanted her to give it a try. In B.C., preschool – for ages three to five – is not mandatory, nor is it fully funded, and I realize the enormous privilege we have to be able to send her to such a centre.

At the end of the summer, we were invited to come for a tour of the preschool. My daughter was shy at first, taking the large classroom

in slowly, until she spotted the indoor play kitchen. Still holding my hand, she dragged me over and then quickly got to work baking a "chocolate chip, raspberry, strawberry, blueberry and raspberry pie" while her dad and I continued the tour of the rest of the classroom.

The fully-fenced outdoor area held a plethora of fun activities for the kids, but of course she immediately spotted the outdoor mud kitchen and quickly got to work concocting a "marshmallow soup for penguins."

We excitedly shopped for a lunch kit and water bottle, label maker and muddy buddy, checking off the list the preschool had sent us ahead of time. We read books about preschool, which soon became her most requested, and when The Night Before Preschool finally arrived, my husband and I were floored when there was no fussing when we asked her to pick and lay out her outfit in preparation for the morning.

We meticulously packed her lunch and had too much fun testing out the new label maker (oh the things we parents get excited about nowadays!).

I wasn't as prepared as some parents, with a chalk or bulletin board for her to hold announcing her first day of preschool for a photo on the morning of the big day, but she asked to hold her new lunchbox and smiled without being asked so I took that as an encouraging sign. When I picked her up at the end of the first day, anxious and worried that I'd perhaps built up the excitement too much, she came running to me with a huge grin on her face. "Mummy, want to see the pie I made?!" We "ate" some pie together in the sun, her baby sister watching with wide eyes from her perch in her portable car seat, taking in all the surroundings. "I guess we better get you on the waitlist as well," I whispered to my infant as my older daughter asked over and over, "Mummy, when do I get to come back?!" So far, it seems, a love for preschool runs in the family.

Preschool

NOVEMBER 2023 | SEASIDEMAGAZINE.CA 33

Let Us Help You Sleep Better!

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4 Colour Process

Thanks to September’s Community Partners: Author Valerie Green • Cordova Candle Co. Fresh Cup Roastery Cafe RockCoast Confections • Butik Naturals Stonehouse Restaurant & Pub Congratulations to September’s winner, Jenna S.

NOVEMBER 2023 | SEASIDEMAGAZINE.CA 35

ARTS SCENE

by Jo Barnes | photo by Leah Gray

DOUG FOSTER:

Resonance & Remembrance A set of battledamaged bagpipes sit in a place of honour in England's Dawlish Museum. While seemingly unremarkable, they were the inspirational instrument played by Canadian Bill Millin for his fellow soldiers as they stormed the beaches of Normandy on June 6, 1944.

The skirl of the bagpipes has always been an incentive to battle and has inspired pride, self-esteem and camaraderie in Canadian soldiers and today, no Remembrance Day is complete without this instrument's evocative notes being played.

Doug Foster, pipe major of the Saanich Peninsula Pipe Band, well understands this and has himself been participating in the November 11 ceremonies since he was a child.

"During the First World War, the Canadian Expeditionary Force was led by pipe bands. Pipers were at Flanders Fields and many other places," shares Doug. "The sound reflects sorrow, love, reflection, appreciation and celebrates freedom."

Doug was captivated by the sight and sound of the bagpipes at a young age when he saw and heard the pipers marching along in the parade.

"I saw the Army, Navy, Air Force bands in the parade, but my favourite was the pipe band," he says. "I was too young to join the cadets. I joined the Victoria Boys Pipe Band under the direction of Ian Duncan."

That first step into the world of bagpipes led to many years of developing his instrument skills, participating in a variety of bands, performing and competing, and ultimately, leading others. His commitment to playing in the Remembrance Day ceremonies, however, was always a constant.

"It is important to me to be part of Remembrance Day," remarks Doug. "Veterans have served in a variety of situations such as World War One and World War Two, Korea, and in peacekeeping missions.

They have put themselves in harm's way for the greater good."

Today, Doug regularly picks up his set of bagpipes, but it was not his first instrument.

"In grades five and six, I was in the school band and played on the brass side of things. I played all kinds of instruments such as French horn, trumpet and trombone," he relates, adding: "I've always liked music."

Initially Doug had wanted to play drums when he joined the Victoria Boys Pipe Band. However, there was a need for more pipers, so he agreed to take on this new instrument. Subsequently, he joined the Canadian Scottish Cadet and senior Regimental pipe bands and continued to hone his skills. In his late teens, he became part of the Sooke Highlanders Pipe Band, where he continued to learn from talented pipers and participated in parades on Canada Day and more.

The band eventually moved to Victoria, then to Sidney where it was sponsored by the Branch #37 Legion and ANAVETS (The Army, Navy & Air Force Veterans in Canada) and finally became the current Saanich Peninsula Pipe Band.

His introduction to Canadian veterans was a pivotal moment for Doug, when his understanding of the significance of Remembrance Day began to deepen.

"As a teen, I would go to the Legion. I was intrigued by those men with so many medals across their chest, and I would listen to their stories," relates Doug. "I began to hang around them more and my perspective started to change."

Now, many decades later, that commitment to honour veterans and their service to their Country, and to listen to their personal stories, has remained.

"When I play at the cenotaph, I like to know the veteran's stories and reaffirm the significance of what I do," he says.

"Sometimes I fix my gaze on a reflective face in the crowd or a veteran wearing medals."

Doug has played his pipes or led the pipe band in countless November 11 parades and also performed solo the timeless Flowers of the Forest, a haunting slow lament which is only played on Remembrance Day or at funerals.

"It's in my blood," shares Doug. "The music expresses a feeling and a story. I put self expression into it and let the music flow."

While Doug has become a fixture as a pipe major and a soloist at Remembrance Day ceremonies, what continues to draw him is the music and the opportunity to play with others.

"I close my eyes and just think about the music," he shares. "In a band, the objective is to play together sounding as one with the same pitch and tone. I really like it when it's a full band and it sounds like only one piper playing."

The pipes and their unique haunting sound have always spoken to Doug and to all who hear them, and for veterans and musicians alike, it speaks of bonds and camaraderie like no other.

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NOVEMBER 2023 | SEASIDEMAGAZINE.CA 37

INVESTING 101Ensuring you Understand Your Portfolio Would you like to gain a better understanding of your investments?

A recent study found that 68% of investors say they have at least one challenge to understanding their investments, with the biggest challenge being the need for more financial knowledge (30%) followed by confusion surrounding financial concepts (22%) and the information not being presented clear (21%)1. Many clients do not know what they are invested in or where they should be directing their savings.

Finance and investing can be intimidating and overwhelming, with terms like ‘yield’, ‘dividend’, and ‘asset mix’ sounding like a foreign language.

I am passionate about teaching my clients and prospective clients the ‘ins and outs’ of investing in a non-intimidating, welcoming environment.

For personal advice, please contact:

Jessica O’Brien Cameron, CIM, PFP Wealth Advisor, Portfolio Manager CIBC Wood Gundy

It is never too early or too late to learn.

If you are interested in learning more about investing, financial planning or your own portfolio, please don’t hesitate to reach out.

250 361-2272 jessica.obriencameron@cibc.com

1

OSC Investor Experience Survey Final Report (2021)

CIBC Private Wealth consists of services provided by CIBC and certain of its subsidiaries, including CIBC Wood Gundy, a division of CIBC World Markets Inc. The CIBC logo and “CIBC Private Wealth” are trademarks of CIBC, used under license. “Wood Gundy” is a registered trademark of CIBC World Markets Inc. If you are currently a CIBC Wood Gundy client, please contact your Investment Advisor.

The Sidney and Peninsula Literary Society Fall 2023 Reading Series submitted by Sidney and Peninsula Literary Society

The Sidney and

Peninsula Literary Society is best known for its biennial festival, but the Society's reading series is what sustains the festival and helps maintain a vibrant book culture on the Saanich Peninsula. Both the festival and the readings fulfill the Society's mandate of celebrating readers, writers and the written word, giving authors a space to discuss the ideas behind their books and their writing process.

In 45 reading events since 2013, the Society has invited nearly 100 writers to engage with enthusiastic book lovers. Many of those authors live in the Greater Victoria region. We are truly fortunate to have access to these storytellers, who entertain and inspire our audiences.

After a successful festival in April 2023, the Society begins its 11th season with two readings this fall. On November 10, Lorna Crozier and Marion Farrant will read from their latest books. In her poetry collection, After That, Crozier engages deeply with her grief following the death of her husband, fellow poet Patrick Lane. Farrant's Jigsaw: A Puzzle in Ninety-Three Pieces, offers refreshing and playful answers to an uncertain future. On December 1, John Vaillant will join us to read from and discuss Fire Weather: The Making of a Beast, his gripping account of the 2016 Fort McMurray fire. Considering our disastrous experience with fire this summer, the book couldn't have been better timed.

Lorna Crozier grew up in Saskatchewan and was a high school English teacher and guidance counselor until Grain Magazine accepted one of her poems for publication and set her on a new path.

She has since published 25 books, mainly poetry, but also memoir, including Through the Garden: A Love Story (with Cats). An officer of the Order of Canada, Crozier has received many prestigious literary awards, including the Governor General's Award for Poetry and

the George Woodcock Lifetime Achievement Award. She holds five honourary doctorates and is known for her inspired teaching and mentorship of other poets.

Marion Farrant was born in Australia and grew up in Cordova Bay. She has written 18 books, ranging from fiction and nonfiction to memoir. In 2013, Farrant's adaptation of her memoir, My Turquoise Years, premiered at the Arts Club Theatre's Granville Island Stage in Vancouver. She has taught writing at the University of Victoria, the Victoria School of Writing and the Banff Centre for the Arts. BC Book World has called her "Canada's most acerbic and intelligent humourist."

American writer and journalist John Vaillant has lived in Vancouver since 1998. His first book, The Golden Spruce, about the felling of a sacred, scientifically significant tree on Haida Gwaii, won the Governor General's Award for Non-Fiction and the Writer's Trust Non-Fiction Prize. The Tiger: A True Story of Vengeance and Survival, about a man-eating tiger in Russia, has been optioned by Brad Pitt's film company. Vaillant's first novel, The Jaguar's Children, was a finalist for the Rogers Writers' Trust Fiction Prize and longlisted for the International Dublin Literary Award. Fire Weather has been shortlisted for the 2023 National Book Award, the Hilary Weston Writers' Trust Prize for Nonfiction and the Banff Mountain Book Competition.

Fall Reading Series Lorna Crozier and Marion Farrant: Friday, November 10 at 7 p.m.

John Vaillant: Friday, December 1 at 7 p.m.

Both readings will take place at the SHOAL Centre, 10030 Resthaven Drive, Sidney. Tickets are $12 for the November 10 reading and $15 for the December 1 reading. They are available at Tanner's Books and online at www.sidneyliteraryfestival.ca.

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WITH

Peter Dolezal

CANADIAN POVERTY CHALLENGE 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 325 clients across Canada, principally in Greater Victoria and the Lower Mainland.

No Financial Products to Sell Leads to Truly Independent Advice.

Recent surveys have indicated that 2.8 million Canadians live in poverty. That is a shocking 7% of our population. Another survey reported that seven million Canadians struggle to put sufficient food on the table for their family. Evidence of these dismal findings can be seen in the dramatic nationwide increase in the use of Food Banks.

Given our still extremely low unemployment rate, this increase in poverty levels is particularly disturbing. Our country is not in a recession, yet too many citizens are experiencing financial stress. What is the explanation?

By far, the single greatest monthly cost for an individual or family is their shelter – whether owned or rented. The cost of housing is at least twice that of groceries for a family.

The Smart Canadian WealthBuilder

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

The Federal government needs to play the leading role in returning housing supply to a state of balance and affordability – particularly since its own generous immigration policy is a major contributor to the problem. This aggressive immigration policy is necessary, given our emerging demographic challenges; we need the additional workforce to offset our shrinking birth rate and aging population.

However, the Government needs to have a parallel plan to provide the housing necessary for an annual influx of almost 500,000 permanent new Canadians.

If our governments are serious, they need to approach this as the crisis that it is.

Some options:

The first priority must be shelter. We cannot skip rent or mortgage payments the way we can forego dining out.

a) All three levels of government own vacant or underutilized land which could be contributed, with strict conditions, toward the cost of new rental units.

Fast-rising interest rates over the past 18 months are the primary driver of financial stress. They will, however, ease only when inflation is fully controlled, and then only modestly.

b) Municipal governments can dramatically accelerate permit approvals; waive permit fees; and potentially, property taxes, for five or 10 years.

The only viable solution is a dramatic increase in the supply of housing. CMHC estimates that over the next seven years, Canada’s housing deficiency will stand at about 3.5 million units.

Author of

by political imperatives in each jurisdiction.

We have seen scattered initiatives by all levels of government to create greater supply.

Municipalities now encourage secondary units in homes. B.C.’s provincial government is setting housing construction targets for municipalities, offering financial incentives for new secondary units, and modest rent subsidies for lower-income individuals or families. Even the federal government has recently eliminated GST on newly-built rental units. At best, these are modest, uncoordinated efforts, driven primarily

c) With the potential for a rapid increase in the supply of rental units, greater incentives can be offered to homeowners to create secondary units.

Even with these actions, the effect on the average renter and aspiring homeowner will take years to return to a balance between housing supply and demand, and the reestablishment of affordability. The current approaches will NOT solve the problem. We need a dramatic increase in supply, and we need to act with the urgency and drastic action that the current crisis deserves.

Until governments step up and lead toward a solution, our rising poverty levels will not reverse.

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

P E T TA L K

by Jacqueline Nicoll K & Co. Marketing

Fur Your Pets' Safety: Navigating Holiday Hazards

The festive holiday season brings families together, filling homes with energy and cheer. However, amidst the excitement, additional pet risks can present themselves. Food and plant poisoning, anxiety induced by fireworks, and the ingestion of chicken bones are some of the main cases veterinary teams encounter on a day-to-day basis in their clinics during this time. Understanding these risks is essential for a happy and hazard-free holiday season for our animal friends.

One often underestimated risk during the holidays is the ingestion of human food by pets. Lynne Brault, a Veterinary Technician in Sidney, emphasizes that this danger is more prevalent than imagined.

Cases of chocolate poisoning, particularly during the holidays, are alarmingly common. Additionally, certain plants – often present as gifts or decorations during the holiday season – can be toxic to dogs and cats. Plants such as holly, mistletoe, poinsettia and lilies can have deadly side effects and should be kept out of reach. Brault advises caution, especially during holiday gatherings, as increased cooking activities can lead to accidental ingestion of harmful foods like garlic, onions, or any sugary goodies that could contain xylitol. To prevent chocolate intoxication, it's simply best to adopt a policy of storing it in areas that your pet cannot reach – even the jumpers! Don't leave it sitting out.

Fireworks, a hallmark of many holiday celebrations, can cause immense stress and anxiety for both pets and wildlife. Although fireworks can be unpredictable, it's a safe bet to say you'll hear them on occasions such as New Year's Eve, so there are certain prevention tactics you can take. Brault, who has been practising for five years as a Veterinary Technician, recommends consulting a veterinarian if your pets are prone to fireworks-induced anxiety, as various options like calming supplements are now available to alleviate their stress.

Creating a designated safe space within the home, equipped with familiar toys and treats and accompanied by soft music, can help pets cope. This is also a stress management tactic for animals that don't do well with large gatherings of new people. "It's best not to overwhelm your pet when they are scared or anxious. Dogs and cats feed on our own energy, so if you are stressed, your pet is likely to pick up on that," says Brault.

Lastly, one of the most frequent cases seen by veterinary professionals during the holidays involves chicken bone ingestion. "I have seen too many patients die from swallowing chicken bones," Brault said sadly.

She advises: "The worst thing you can do is to try to induce vomiting as this causes a much higher risk for esophageal tears and can be fatal."

Instead, proper waste management is especially important during the holidays, ensuring no accidental ingestion occurs. If your pet could have had access to chicken bones and signs of ingestion are observed, such as vomiting, loss of appetite, fever, lethargy or trouble defecating, contacting your veterinarian is suggested.

Implementing preventive measures such as secure storage of toxic foods, creating safe havens during fireworks displays or larger group gatherings, and maintaining a pet-proof environment can go a long way in safeguarding our pets during the festivities. This ensures that they don't unnecessarily end up in the emergency room during one of the most joyous times of the year, and a blissful time is had by all in mounds of gravy and safe-to-eat chicken meat.

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G LO B E H O P P I N G story and photos by Susan Beiderwieden

Home Sweet HOME

Right now, I'm the girl on the train, hurtling along at 240 km an hour heading for the Chunnel. No, not the title character from Paula Hawkins' 2015 novel by the same name. And, truth be told I'm long past girlhood, feeling like a well-seasoned mature woman who spent the last hours getting through the busy metro stations lugging my suitcase over cobblestones.

Some say getting there is half the fun and we are heading toward Paris, but also leaving London and our comfortable home away from home for the last three weeks. As we approach the Chunnel my heart rate increases, thinking about that claustrophobic feeling I've experienced in other underground situations. A programmed announcement flashes across the monitor to reassure passengers that air will be circulated during the 20-minute crossing and the train will slow to the regulated speed of 160 km per hour. Daylight disappears along with my fears as I sink back in the comfortable seat and into a reverie of our 10th house exchange.

The first thing people ask when I tell them about our vacation and house swap is: "how does that work?" Before I can answer, a puzzled look appears and they blurt out: "how can you trust somebody in your home; do you lock up all your valuables?" At that point, I laugh, thinking "what valuables?" Then, I tell them that the idea for a house exchange started in 1953 when two teachers in Switzerland and the Netherlands wanted an alternative to the high cost of rentals or hotels during sabbaticals or summer travel.

It turned out to be such a great experience that the idea caught on. It's a way to enjoy a more economical, more authentic, more environmentallyfriendly way to travel and also a means of experiencing cultural differences.

There are countless agencies offering a variety of search platforms and options for the type of exchanges available.

My husband and I have been Intervac (International Vacation) members since 2010. It is the original and oldest house exchange network, providing secure access to profiles of over 30,000 members in 50 countries. There are also individual representatives in each country for direct communication. Our annual paid membership offers me peace of mind.

A house swap is a negotiated conversation between partners who over time become friends.

During an early stage in our process before David and I knew each other well, when a potentially embarrassing typo turned his name into Davie, we laughed. Making friends is one of the many joys of swapping, while another is figuring out daily life in a different culture or environment.

England seemed like a good idea, as we speak the same language, more or less. Our first house exchange was in Cambridge, England in 1994,

bringing us full circle in a sense as this is our last long-haul flight to Europe.

My original plan for this holiday was to find a base in the north counties so I could walk from York into the Lake District. That didn't work out, yet we managed to walk an impressive number of kilometres by visiting Sissinghurst, Chartwell, Kew Gardens, Greenwich, museums, old villages, grand cathedrals and, of course, pubs.

As the train slows to pull into the Paris station I am pulled from my reverie.

We weave our way through the crowd and I catch a glimpse of the Eiffel Tower.

This next leg of our adventure is just beginning while our partners are landing at Gatwick Airport. I wonder what they'll feel and see when stepping across the threshold into their house after seven weeks in Western Canada? Will they notice the dust bunnies that escaped the hurried final cleanup, or find my note on the sideboard about the broken wine glasses, and see the damp towels in the laundry basket? I'm comfortable knowing there is food in the fridge, flowers on the table, and fresh sheets on the beds.

As I write this, it's early October and we are in Belgium. We left Victoria in early September and are ready to return to our life. I miss my bed, house, kids and grandkids. Sometimes when I'm weary of crowds, meals out and sleeping in a different bed every few nights, I wonder why I leave home. But as the sun streams through the windows of this 340-year-old home in Bruges, immersed in history and the memories of the last five weeks, I know why I travel. But you have to leave home …

"So that you can come back. So that you can see the place you come from with new eyes and extra colours. And the people there see you differently, too." ~ Terry Pratchett

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help but chuckle at the idea. As a childhood Barbie enthusiast, the concept of a film centred around a doll seemed ridiculous, but as the release date approached, I found myself swept up in the frenzy and embraced Barbie-mania. The tongue-in-cheek trailer and my trust in Greta Gerwig's directorial prowess erased any doubts. On opening night, I donned my pinkest outfit and joined the crowd for the premiere. The theater was a sea of pink, and as the lights dimmed and the screen came to life, I realized: "This is what movies are all about – bringing people together to share joy." And Barbie did just that. It turned out to be an unexpected rollercoaster with a story that had the entire theatre laughing, crying and buzzing with delight.

Barbie is still in theatres, and you can now rent it on streaming platforms like Apple and Amazon. The film stars Margot Robbie as the iconic "Stereotypical Barbie," and Ryan Gosling plays Ken in a role that I'm convinced will have him nominated for an Oscar.

Barbie's plot is refreshingly straightforward: Barbie and Ken live a dream life in Barbieland. After being thrust into the real world, their adventure takes a turn when the executives from Mattel try to get Barbie back into a box. The magic of Barbie isn't just in its story but in the blend of art direction, wardrobe, soundtrack and cinematography, creating a sensory spectacle. Barbie conveys a heartwarming tale of empowerment and friendship while imparting valuable life lessons without becoming preachy.

What sets the film apart is its self-awareness and willingness to poke fun at itself, which it does brilliantly. I was genuinely surprised that Mattel allowed some of the audacious dialogue, including a teenager labeling Barbie a fascist and Ken attempting to introduce the patriarchy to Barbieland. It's safe to say that when I describe this film as unexpected, I truly mean it.

While one might assume that a movie about dolls is primarily aimed at children, Barbie's PG-13 rating makes it better suited for teenagers and adults. Younger viewers may find the lengthy monologues a bit taxing.

Barbie is a heartwarming and visually-captivating journey that breathes life into the beloved toy franchise. With its uplifting messages and endearing characters, it's a must-see. If you're looking for something similarly fun to cozy up to, check out my list of recommendations below.

1) Charlie's Angels, Netflix 2) Legally Blonde, Apple 3) Funny Face, Amazon 4) The Stepford Wives, Amazon 5) 13 Going on 30, Netflix

Help usreach reach of million. $15 million.

Help us ourour goalgoal of $15

Making space for

comfort

Your donation to our Acute Care Unit Renovations will make everyone more comfortable.

Dear Friends, With great excitement, I announce the honour bestowed upon me as Fundraising Campaign Chair.

This campaign’s goals are necessary– A major renovation of the Acute Care Unit (ACU)!

SPH’s ACU was opened in 1978. We have worked within that– essentially unchanged–space for all of these years even with many advancements in medical technology.

The need for this renovation and upgrade was identified and proposed even before I retired from my Island Health Administrative roles in 2019. But with COVID, an enormous, across-the-board staffing crisis, and other challenges, this project had been delayed—until now.

Issues of privacy, new standards in infection control and our ongoing migration to a totally paperless health care system make the renovation of ACU a vital endeavour.

250-656-2948

Our present workspace is a warren of desks and it is inefficient and inadequate. We all need computer access for documents in order to monitor the care we are providing.

I and many others believe that this renovation will bring SPH to a physical place that will match its long standing reputation of outstanding caring and compassion AND that this will help enormously in our goals of recruitment and retention for all members of our Health Care Team.

As I crawl toward total retirement, this role fits perfectly with my desire to continue to support this wonderful facility and dedicated staff and to improve morale within the workplace environment.

Let’s make this campaign a success, so that healthcare in our hospital and community will continue to strive to the high level we’ve always aimed to achieve.

I Can’t Wait !!!... Let’s Do It !!

Yours Faithfully, Dr. Ambrose Marsh, Campaign Chair

Supporting Saanich Peninsula Hospital:

Ted’s Story

After graduating from the UVic School of Nursing, Ted began working in the Acute Care Unit at Saanich Peninsula Hospital in 2015. “As a new nurse at SPH, I found it a bit intimidating to care for so many seriously ill patients, but I had a lot of support from more experienced nurses – the nursing staff is fantastic!”

“Many patients and their families have told me how much it means to see a friendly face, a nurse they know in the Acute Care Unit. That doesn’t often happen in a larger hospital.”

Ted and his wife Krista, a nurse educator at SPH, moved out to the peninsula six years ago and have established deep roots in the community through family, work, and their kids’ school. “Many patients and their families have told me how much it means to see a friendly face, a nurse they know in the Acute Care Unit. That doesn’t often happen in a larger hospital. Even though the rooms are crowded and the chairs not too comfortable, people have said to us, ‘Okay, I can live with this because the people who work at SPH are terrific and connect so well with patients and their families.’”

Ted says that the Acute Care ward which was built over forty years ago has many walls and closed-door areas, which means some of the needed equipment must be stored in out-of-the-way places. “The main supply area is located at one end of the Acute Care Unit, so it’s quite a task to go back and forth all day if you are working at the other end.”

Redesigning the ward would have all the amenities, such as the supply room, blanket warmer, and patient kitchen, in a more central location so that supply access can be quick and convenient. Updated equipment, such as bedside telemetry monitors for every bed, would improve patient care. A nursing station at each end of the ward would be invaluable. “I hope the renovation will open things up and make it easier to assist patients and get to everything we need for them.”

“Some patients we care for mention that they donate funds to SPH, and they seem proud of that and should be! Their donation shows they value this incredible community as much as I do. It’s a great little place, and it’s just so important to have this hospital out here to take care of our community.”

Ted Garbutt, Registered Nurse, SPH ACU

250-656-2948

Dr. Molly Forrester: on making a better Acute Care Unit

As a medical student, Dr. Molly Forrester became part of the Saanich Peninsula Hospital family in 2010. She worked with Dr. Ambrose Marsh, and recalls, “In large part he is the reason I chose to stay and practice medicine here. I love Saanich Peninsula Hospital (SPH) - it has a really nice community hospital feel.”

Dr. Forrester is one of the local family physicians who provides care for patients in the Acute Care Ward. She also has a regular family practice in Sidney, delivers babies at Victoria General Hospital, and provides long-term care at two facilities. “Most family doctors at SPH do many different things besides our work here.” Rather than hospitalists staffing “Over the last few years, we SPH, like at the downtown hospitals, community family doctors provide this service. Many physicians admit and follow their own patients at SPH, and have seen an increase in often work seven days straight when covering Acute Care.

the complexity of patients admitted at SPH and the weight of the care is on the backs of the RNs, LPNs, and Health Care Aids.”

“I hope renovations to the Acute Care Unit will make the job easier for the Nurses and Care Aides because they do the lion’s share of the work. Over the last few years, we have seen an increase in the complexity of patients admitted at SPH and the weight of the care is on the backs of the RNs, LPNs, and HCAs. I think it would be awesome if their jobs were made easier through infrastructure changes. Of course I would love to see the updates benefit patients in their recovery and make visiting easier for families, too.”

“I am very SaanPen proud. There is such a legacy of incredibly dedicated, compassionate and hard-working physicians that, for decades, have kept this hospital afloat. It’s a really tight-knit community of health care workers; we’re there for each other, we support each other, and I think that’s what makes this place really special.”

Highlights of the Acute Care Unit Renovations Renovations and upgrades to the ACU will benefit patients, staff and visitors: Increased efficiency throughout: • better visual and physical access of patient rooms • better utilization of space • improved patient and staff flow throughout the unit • easier access to equipment storage • improved sightlines Improved safety for patients and staff throughout: • more hand hygiene sinks • better security for patients

Patient room configuration and space utilization improvements: • improved infection control • improved privacy for patients and visitors • more room for health care equipment (i.e. patient lifts, vital machines) • improved lighting • improved energy-efficiencies Improved medication safety Updated work areas for staff

You can help us Build-A-Room!

What is ‘Build-A-Room’? Part of our fundraising efforts for the renovation of the ACU is to purchase state-of-theart equipment and new furnishings for the ACU rooms. We’re asking for your help to ‘Build-A-Room’ with us!

If you would like to make a pledge for for a Buid-A-Room item or find out more about the campaign, please scan the QR code below or go to sphf.ca/acute-care.

Dear Friends, My name is Chris Straub, and I’m honored to serve as the newly appointed Chair of the Board of Directors of the Saanich Peninsula Hospital & Healthcare Foundation . I’m reaching out to seek your support for our new two-year, $15 million fundraising campaign, which aims to fund a comprehensive renovation of the Acute Care Unit (ACU) at our hospital .

Acute Care Unit 2023-24 Fundraising Campaign Enclosed is my tax deductible gift of:

o $1000 o $500 o $250 o $100 o $50 o Other Amount: $ . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Over the past year, we’ve witnessed incredible support for both the Foundation and Saanich Peninsula Hospital . Together, we’ve provided crucial resources, including state-of-the-art equipment for the Emergency and Surgical Departments and sustaining the Doctor of the Day program, addressing the community’s most urgent healthcare needs .

o cheque enclosed or o Visa o Mastercard

Now, our focus is on fully renovating and modernizing the ACU, which is vital for recovery of surgical patients, providing extended observation and in-patient care . Recent years, especially during the COVID pandemic, have highlighted the pressing need for modern ACU facilities, ensuring patient safety, comfort, and efficient staff interactions .

o I would like to make a monthly donation of

By contributing to this cause, you directly impact the wellbeing of your family, friends, and neighbors in our community .

The foundation supports the hospital through donors like you, and we are dedicated to maximizing the impact of every donation .

I encourage you to consider contributing to our cause . We invite you to give in support of this year’s campaign, visit sphf.ca, call us at 250-656-2948 or complete and mail in the donation form provided here . It’s up to all of us, to ensure our community hospital continues to provide the highest level of excellence .

On behalf of Saanich Peninsula Hospital, the Foundation’s Board & Staff, and everyone involved, I extend my heartfelt thanks for your care and generosity .

This community has shown it cares about Saanich Peninsula Hospital .

Let’s continue changing it for the better, together .

Sincerely,

Card No .: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Expiry Date: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Signature: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

$ . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . by: o credit card o void cheque enclosed Name: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Address: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

City: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Postal Code: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Email: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

Phone: . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

o I would like to receive occasional email updates and information from the Saanich Peninsula Hospital & Healthcare Foundation .

PLEASE DIRECT MY GIFT TO:

o Acute Care Unit Renovations o Acute Care Unit Equipment o Wherever the need is greatest

A receipt will be issued to acknowledge your generosity .

BN 11913 0540 RR0001

Hospital Office: 2166 Mt Newton X Rd .

Saanichton, BC V8M 2B2 Ph: 250-652-7531

Chris Straub Saanich Peninsula Hospital & Healthcare Foundation, Board Chair

250-656-2948

o Other (please specify below)

Sidney Office: 9710 Third St .

Sidney, BC V8L 3A2 Ph: 250-656-2948

ON DESIGN

by Jennifer Etherington, Avenue B Home Decor | photos by Janis Jean Photography

Decking the Halls

CHRISTMAS DECORATING IN A SMALL SPACE 'Tis the season to be jolly, and that means it is time to transform your small living space into a festive winter wonderland!

While decorating for Christmas in a small space might present some challenges, it is certainly not impossible. With a dash of creativity, a pinch of resourcefulness and a sprinkle of holiday spirit, you can make your compact abode merry and bright.

Before diving into the decoration frenzy, take a moment to decide on the key areas you want to focus on. In a small space, "less" can often be "more." Prioritize the main spaces like your living room, entryway and kitchen. Keep the decoration theme simple and cohesive to prevent clutter and chaos.

Selecting a theme for your Christmas décor can help tie everything together in a small space. Whether it is the rustic farmhouse look, a classic red-and-green colour scheme or a modern minimalist approach, having a theme can guide your choices and create a harmonious atmosphere. For this space, we have chosen a modern design using a green-and-gold palette for the indoor space, and red-and-gold scheme for the outdoor space.

Don't be afraid to get creative. Use items in an unexpected way: instead of hanging Christmas ornaments from a tree, try hanging them from the ceiling. With a little imagination, the possibilities are endless!

Don't forget about your patio – this is valuable real estate when decorating a small space and you can create a second living space outdoors. Put garland on the railings and add real branches to create volume. Use LED lights to brighten the space.

Bring the inside out with corresponding colours.

Decorating for Christmas in a small space may require some ingenuity, but it's a wonderful opportunity to showcase your personal style and holiday spirit. By prioritizing, simplifying and using these creative tips, you can turn even the coziest of homes into a festive and enchanting holiday haven. Remember: it's not the size of the space that matters, it's the joy and love you infuse into styling your home that truly make it a magical Christmas. Happy decorating!

NOVEMBER 2023 | SEASIDEMAGAZINE.CA 51

RANCHO VIGNOLA

Harvest Sale NOVEMBER 24TH & 25TH Friday: 9am - 7pm • Saturday: 9am - 5pm Mary Winspear Centre • 2243 Beacon Ave, Sidney

For the ninth year in a row Rancho Vignola is setting up its Vancouver Island Harvest sale at the Mary Winspear Centre in Sidney. Many of you are now familiar with the best of the new crop nuts, dried fruit, seeds and confections that this Okanagan-based company brings in every year, and will be pleased to see it return. As in previous years, this will be a fun-filled tasting and buying event with live cooking demos

by Chef Heidi Fink, prize draws and samples for each of the delicious new crop nuts, dried fruit and confections brought in from the latest harvest of farms from far and wide.

Cheese & Almond Biscuits INGREDIENTS: What started as a natural food store in Vernon, B.C., is now home to the freshest new crop nuts and dried fruit on the market. Most people that have purchased Rancho Vignola products in the past know the undeniable quality and freshness it guarantees. What is a bit lesser known are the values this Okanagan based company carries:

4 oz cheddar (or other) cheese

1 egg 1 tbsp chia seeds

• They share with the ones who need it most. As a principle, they never warehouse product from one harvest to the next. Remaining product is donated to food banks, charities and wildlife rehab facilities across Canada. Their annual donation day is truly a heartwarming event where staff, customers and local community members come and help sort and package all the remaining stock to send out.

3 oz ground almonds or almond flour 2 tbsp butter, softened

• They are passionate like you! When you call or come to the Harvest Sale, you will speak to someone who cares about freshness the way you do. They always strive to source the most nutritious and best tasting products available and won’t settle for less.

• They are farmer friendly. Farmers are partners: they have worked together with some of them for over 40 years. In some cases, the sons and daughters of farmers they have started buying from years ago are the ones doing business with them now.

• They proudly support Canadian athletics and improve performance through better nutrition. Ultra athlete Shanda Hill, Cross-Country Ski Athletes Julien Locke, Dahria Beatty, Emily Young, Olivia Lahey, Tylee Carr and many others have been fueling their training with nutritient-dense Rancho Vignola foods.

¼ – ½ tsp salt 1 tbsp sunflower seeds

DIRECTIONS: Mix all ingredients together into a dough. Scoop and roll dough into about 12 balls and place on a parchment-lined cookie tray, flatten and then bake at 375°F for about 10-12 minutes until crispy around the edges.

Good anytime, but best fresh from the oven!

To sum it up, in many ways, they are keeping communities supported and are genuinely an all round great company!

So there you have it, many more reasons not to miss the Rancho Vignola Harvest Sale at the Mary Winspear Center this year. Looking forward to seeing everyone there!

LEARN MORE ABOUT RANCHO VIGNOLA AT

www.ranchovignola.com

W E AT H E R W I T

by Steve Sakiyama

Sole Searching The mysteries of the pyramids and Stonehenge pale in comparison to the simple, everyday ones like the lost sock in the wash and my favourite: the abandoned shoe on the road.

While merging onto the Pat Bay Highway one day, I noticed a single white running shoe on the shoulder. It looked pretty new.

How did it get there? Why just one? Comedian Kevin Meany wondered if the driver decided: "I'm going to take this shoe and throw that baby right out the window."

Most of the footwear I've seen on roads includes running shoes, but there are boots and loafers too. No heels so far, no matching pairs and only one sandal, spotted on a quiet street in Singapore.

My most unusual discovery occurred some years ago while walking along a local rural road. A large rubber boot was sitting beside a nice running shoe, as if brought together by an innate force in all footwear with soles (or souls) to be in pairs. It's the same mysterious force that guides migratory birds thousands of kilometres to find their way to an obscure nesting ground in the Aleutians.

The most intriguing case was in 2009 when NBC reported that thousands of shoes inexplicably appeared along a Miami freeway one morning. Sandals, boots, slippers, roller skates … nobody knows where they came from. To me this proves that: a) extraterrestrial life exists; and b) whatever they look like, they have feet. As a footnote, closer to home but not so mysterious is the North Vancouver Island shoe tree along Holberg Road. There is an old cedar snag adorned with hundreds of worn-out shoes and hiking boots, placed there by those who have completed the Cape Scott Trail.

Speaking of footwear, November means a switch to something waterproof as we transition to our cool and wet winter. In fact, November is right up there with December and January for the months with the most precipitation in these parts. At this time of year very cold and dry air from the frigid Arctic begins to flow south, some of it ending up over the North Pacific Ocean. This frigid, dry air is moisturized and warmed by the these vast ocean waters so that it becomes moist and cool. Meteorologists call this "Maritime Polar Air." It pushes on to the coast and defines our typical cool, wet weather that we begin to experience this month and throughout the winter season.

Well, how cool and wet will November be? The outlook leans toward a warmer-than-normal month, but it's undecided about what's happening with precipitation.

Whatever the weather, if you're feeling like an abandoned shoe

along the side of life's road, do a flip-flop and connect with your friends, family or even the store clerk. A simple "hello" will do. There is an innate force within that draws us to be with others, for good company brings warmth to a cold life and moisturizes our dry souls. Remember, November is an in-between month where the gratitude from Thanksgiving in October still lingers and the hope of Christmas in December begins to grow. When gratitude mixed with hope is shared with others, there's no mystery. You're in a good place, no matter where you are on the road of life. ~ Weatherwit

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National Bank Financial - Wealth Management (NBFWM) is a division of National Bank Financial Inc. (NBF Inc.), as well as a trademark owned

by National Bank of Canada (NBC) that is used under license by NBF Inc. NBF Inc. is a member of the Investment Industry Regulatory Organization of Canada (IIROC) and the Canadian Investor Protection Fund (CIPF, and is a wholly-owned subsidiary of NBC, a public company listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange (TSX: NA).

NOVEMBER 2023 | SEASIDEMAGAZINE.CA 53

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

by Annilee Armstrong

News, changes, updates, launches? Email noteworthyseaside@gmail.com.

NEIGHBOURHOOD UPDATES New Corporate Logo for Town of Sidney Following a public engagement process over the summer, the Town will be adopting a new corporate logo design this fall featuring Bevan Fishing Pier. The logo was redesigned to be more visually accessible, distinct, and suitable for local government. It will appear on items such as the Town Talk newsletter, website, news releases and other corporate communications tools. Welcome signs in the community will remain unchanged, as they are each unique and do not feature the Town's corporate logo. https://tinyurl.com/2ecvek8y

Brentwood Bay Park Renamed to Honour First Nation History The park, formerly known as Pioneer Park, is now HEL,HILEȻ. At a Council meeting on September 25, Central Saanich Council approved a request from W̱SÁNEĆ youth to rename Pioneer Park HEL,HILEȻ (pronounced hul-he-look). The students chose HEL,HILEȻ as it means "place of gladness" in the SENĆOŦEN language.

Hundreds of students and many community members attended the

Reconcili-ACTION March last year to raise awareness of the need for reconciliation to include concrete action.

"I was honoured to listen to the students share how the name of the park impacted them. One of the many ways we can take action on reconciliation is by ensuring place names are inclusive and restoring SENĆOŦEN names," said Central Saanich Mayor Ryan Windsor.

Public Engagement on New Central Saanich Parks and Trails Master Plan The District of Central Saanich is asking the public to help shape the direction for a new Parks and Trails Master Plan – this is the plan's first update since 1996. Your feedback will help ensure the new Master Plan reflects how you, your family or your organization use the parks and trails network in Central Saanich and how you hope to see them grow and evolve in the future. www.LetsTalkCentralSaanich.ca/ParksandTrails

On the Water Tsawout First Nation is proud to be the new proprietors of a local whale watching business, Sidney Whale Watching.

The Tsawout First Nation purchased the Sidney Whale Watching

Bough &

Burl Hand Crafted Live Edge Woodworking at its Finest Donna Stewart

Martine Schlagintweit

Aisling Smyth

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

Peter Bion (aka Bough & Burl) has a passion for working with hardwoods sourced from several suppliers. His extensive list of wood species includes black walnut, maple, cherry, mappa, olive wood, bubinga, jatoba, zebra wood and many others!

A number of his tables feature unique and creative metal legs sourced from California, and he hand carves bowls of various sizes from cherry, basswood and maple. He recently began building jewelry and keepsake boxes of varying sizes and wood species, epoxy resin tables and smaller epoxy pieces.

The projects Peter would like to build is too numerous to mention and is restricted only by his imagination!

Shop online or request a custom build at www.bough-burl.ca 54 SEASIDEMAGAZINE.CA | NOVEMBER 2023

company in May; it has been locally operated for nearly 20 years. www.sidneywhalewatching.com

ST. ANDREW'S CHUCH Reverend Induction and New Programs St. Andrew's Anglican Church's new Rector, the Reverend Kelly Duncan, will be officially inducted on Saturday, November 25 at 2 p.m. at the church. Present will be representatives of other churches and members of the general public are also warmly welcome to attend. There will be a reception afterwards.

St. Andrew's is also pleased to announce the fall start to its Child, Youth and Young Adult program, led by Hayden Blair. This program will feature Sunday activities to support, encourage and deepen participants' faith connections, an evening program on Thursdays 7 to 8:30 p.m. for young people and a Sunday gathering with lunch. An emphasis will be placed on ensuring that all participants will feel safe, welcome and included. The program is aimed at anyone on the Saanich Peninsula or beyond.

The youth in middle and high school program will be offered on the first and third Sundays of the month at 10 a.m. at the church, during the regular service.

More information can be found at www.standrewssidney.ca.

OFF & RUNNING Parkland Track Complete The Board of Education for School District 63 (Saanich) officially opened the six-lane running track at Parkland Secondary School this past September. Completion of the new track was made possible through the partnership and financial support of the District of North Saanich and the Town of Sidney, numerous project donations from local businesses and community members, and the fundraising efforts of the former Parkland Principal Lizanne Chicanot and the Memorial Park Society. Congratulations!

Creativity is only limited by the imagination Let us show you what we’ve been dreaming about!

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Monday - Saturday | 10am till 6pm | 250-896-6685 7103 West Saanich Rd, Brentwood Bay | www.westpacificseafoods.com NOVEMBER 2023 | SEASIDEMAGAZINE.CA 55

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Sidney Fifth at Bevan 9769 Fifth Street ◆ 250.656.2326 Victoria 2950 Douglas Street ◆ 250.384.3388 Cook Street Village 343 Cook Street ◆ 250.381.5450

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

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

Transitioning Into Fall As the vibrant colours of summer start to fade and the crisp breeze of autumn fills the air, it's time to adapt our exercise and lifestyle routines to embrace the changing season. Transitioning into fall can be a smooth and enjoyable process, allowing us to stay active, maintain our well-being and make the most of this beautiful time of year. In this guide, we'll explore how to adjust your exercise routines, daily habits and overall lifestyle to stay healthy and happy during the fall season.

Outdoor Activities Fall offers a stunning backdrop for outdoor activities, plus it's cooler out so you're not beat by the heat. Here are some ways to enjoy the season.

• Hiking. Explore nearby trails to witness the breathtaking fall foliage. The cooler temperatures make hiking more comfortable, and you can enjoy the vibrant colours of nature.

• Biking. Ride your bicycle along scenic routes to enjoy the crisp fall air. It's a low-impact exercise that lets you explore your surroundings and the Greater Victoria area has fantastic trail systems!

Indoor Exercises When the weather becomes too chilly or rainy, indoor workouts can keep you active and warm.

• Home Workouts. Consider setting up a home gym or using fitness apps for guided workouts. A spin class or exercise/Zumba class at your local rec centre can also be a great option to keep your body moving.

• Yoga and Pilates. Both of these practices promote flexibility, strength and relaxation. You can follow in-person or online classes to practise at home.

• Swimming. If you have access to an indoor pool, swimming is an excellent full-body workout that's easy on the joints. Bonus if your local rec centre also has a sauna or hot tub to enjoy some heat!

Healthy Sleep Habits The dropping daylight hours as we come into fall and winter can sometimes disrupt sleep patterns. Here's how to ensure you get quality rest.

• Consistent Schedule. Stick to a regular sleep schedule, even on weekends. Going to bed and waking up at the same time helps regulate your body's internal clock.

• Limit Screen Time. The blue light emitted by screens can interfere with your sleep. Avoid electronic devices at least an hour before bedtime.

Stress Management Fall can bring its own set of stresses, such as increased work or school demands. Manage stress effectively.

• Mindfulness and Meditation. Practise mindfulness and meditation to calm your mind. Even just a few minutes of deep breathing can make a big difference, or walking meditations in nature help to unwind.

• Social Connections. Stay connected with loved ones. Whether it's a cozy gathering or a virtual chat, spending time with friends and family can be a great stress reliever.

Transitioning into fall is an opportunity to revitalize our routines and make positive adjustments to our lifestyle. Embrace autumn with open arms, and you'll find that it can be a time of renewal and well-being.

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NOVEMBER 2023 | SEASIDEMAGAZINE.CA 57

LIVING OFF THE LAND

by Jo Barnes | photos by Kathryn Alvarez Photography

SYMPHONY VINEYARD:

Sipping & Savouring the Seasons There are changes with each season in the vineyard. In winter, vines are pruned. In spring, buds emerge. Come summer, grapes grow. With fall's arrival, fruit is harvested and fermented into wine.

However, at one local winery, a new season will also bring new vintners.

Since 2012, Lamont Brooks and Pat George, owners of Symphony Vineyard, have been successfully making delicious wine, and are now mentoring a young couple who will take over the winery next spring.

Frasier Fir: the iconic scent for Fall & Winter

The Dancing Orchid

250.656.1318 | #104 - 2537 Beacon Avenue, Sidney 58 SEASIDEMAGAZINE.CA | NOVEMBER 2023

"Mic Silvestri and Jonny Bernard have been with us for a couple of years," shares Lamont. "They are young and passionate about their work."

Pat adds: "They have worked in wineries, are knowledgeable and very welcoming in the tasting room. We are delighted to be transitioning the winery to them."

Located on Oldfield Road, Symphony Vineyard grows a variety of grapes which are made into crisp, dry, aromatic white wines and rosé, and lightly barrel aged, fruit forward red wines. Wine can be purchased onsite, savoured in the tasting room, and enjoyed on the outdoor patio.

The vineyard operation opened in 2012. The owners gave it the name "Symphony," reflecting the family interest in music.

"Our family is quite musical. Both Lamont and his mom play piano, and our kids play piano and cello," relates Pat. "Lamont felt the movements of the symphony are like the seasons of the vineyard.

We thought it was a name that people could remember."

Lamont was raised on the vineyard property which his parents purchased in the 1950s. They grew strawberries and then loganberries.

"Loganberries were an important part of the early wine history here," says Pat. "Some of the harvest was sold as fruit, but a lot of it went to Growers Winery on Quadra and McKenzie which was B.C.'s first winery. Saanich farmers started the winery as they were not getting enough money for their fruit."

After moving to the West Coast in 2003, Lamont and Pat were curious about the wine industry.

"We wanted to grow something and we were interested in wine and making wine. Our first planting was in 2004. We enjoyed the whole learning process," shares Pat, adding with a laugh: "Even the attempts at crushing grapes with our feet!"

The winery, which currently produces about 10,000 litres of wine, has grown over time. The original two-car garage was transformed into a wine lab, storage area and barrel room. Also created were a new front entrance, a tasting bar and a self-serve deli where customers can fill up their picnic baskets with a variety of locally-sourced cheeses, crackers, fruits and charcuterie.

Pruning, daily vine and soil care, and final harvest all require attention to detail, experience and commitment.

"We are as environmentally sustainable as we can be," says Lamont.

"We keep vines and soil as healthy as possible. We monitor closely for soil moisture level and make sure that the vines get the light and air they need so that grapes can ripen."

Tending the vines, harvesting, sorting and many other tasks from crushing to making the wine and marketing it all add up to mean time and hard work. Over the years, friends and family have all contributed. Soon-to-be operators Mic and Jonny have been an enthusiastic part of the winery over the last couple of years. They both have experience in the wine industry having worked at wineries in the Niagara Peninsula and Kelowna.

"We met while working at a winery in the Okanagan," says Mic. "We have a strong passion for hospitality, and we have fallen in love with farming. It's hard work, but it is special to dedicate your time to express yourself and the region in which you live."

Having learned a great deal about wine making since their first planting in 2004, Lamont and Pat are eager to have the opportunity to pass this knowledge along to others.

"We are now in our mid-60s," notes Pat. "We're working hard on succession plans and making it affordable for this couple to take on the winery."

The two of them have built a place that is very much a community hub for Peninsula residents.

"We are locally focused, and people appreciate that," relates Lamont. "They love our setting, and they bring friends."

Pat adds: "I love that our place shares this beautiful valley with others, and we've met and made so many good friends here."

It's a sentiment shared by both Mic and Jonny, who plan to open the winery next spring under the new name, Neighbourly Wine Co. "We're looking forward to creating a space where everybody feels welcome and can enjoy local wine in a beautiful setting," shares Mic. As the seasons change, fruit appears, ripens and ages into full flavour. Now while the "symphony" of activity is evolving in a new "neighbourly" direction, the heart and passion for wine continues.

After one year in our sparkly new location...

IT’S ALWAYS THE RIGHT TIME TO APPLY MULCH TO YOUR

Please join us to Celebrate

L to R: Lamont Brooks, Pat George, Mic Silvestri and Jonny Bernard.

Flower & Garden Beds

Star Cinema’s 25 Years in the generous and lovely Town of Sidney.

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Thank you for all the kindness, support and encouragement!

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EXPERIENCE MATTERS. Whether you are new to the area, going through a life transition, or unhappy with your current situation, you will find that Deborah takes a unique approach when working with her clients.

Her 25 years of experience in the investment industry is her guide when working with investors.

Deborah realizes that building a strong client relationship is rooted in trust and transparency is key to an investor’s success. The foundation for a strong relationship is ensuring compatibility and effective communication. Investors want to know that their financial advisor is committed to their success and willing to take the time to listen to what is important to help them determine their goals.

It may surprise many to learn that investing is often not about achieving the ‘highest rate of return’, but rather having confidence that their financial advisor understands their goals and will prepare an investment plan that will help achieve those goals. What one investor considers important, another may not, therefore, goals, plans, and solutions are as unique as the individual, so too should be the portfolio!

Experience matters when it comes to guiding investors through turbulent markets. Although setting goals, determining the appropriate asset allocation, implementing a strategy, building a portfolio, and monitoring investments are essential to successful investing, the most important factor is the amount of time that the professional spends with the investor. The more investment knowledge and understanding of the markets that an investor has, the greater the chances are for success. When investors are prepared for volatility and understand the emotional roller coaster that can be experienced during market corrections, the less chance they have of making decisions based on emotion rather than discipline and logic.

A financial advisor who has experience guiding investors through these market corrections is an invaluable asset to achieving one’s financial goals.

Don’t take chances with your financial success because experience truly does matter!

Raymond James Ltd., Member - Canadian Investor Protection Fund.

Deborah Reid fma, fcsi

www.raymondjames.ca/deborahreid

deborah.reid@raymondjames.ca 250.657.0700

®

Financial Advisor

October Meeting

by Deborah Rogers

“ Children are made

readers on the laps of their parents.”

- Emilie Buchwald

Book Club

Not all books are going to appeal to everyone, but sometimes a novel provokes such a disparity in responses that they become almost as interesting to discuss as the book itself. Rumaan Alam's Leave the World Behind caused a split in our group of readers, though don't worry, we finished our animated meeting as friends!

The story starts with a family setting off for their summer vacation.

Amanda and Clay have a comfortable, middle-class life in Brooklyn, with busy jobs and two teenagers. They're ready for a change of pace and time to relax. We join them on their car journey towards the coast as Amanada answers a work call, Clay ponders the book review he's writing for the New Yorker, and the kids clamour to stop for fast food. We see them step into the calm elegance of their vacation rental, beautifully appointed and so anonymous. The author provides lots of detail, jumping from character to character, so that we know how each of them feels about everything. The total normality – some readers felt banality – of the first day of the family's holiday is interrupted late at night by a knock at the door.

Would you let a stranger into your home? What if it wasn't your home, just a holiday home, and the stranger says they are the owner?

Leave the World Behind takes a very simple, plausible situation, and adds increasingly strange events, pushing the reader to question over and over how they might react in a similar situation. In the event of something cataclysmic, how would we behave? Would we rise to the challenge or fall back on socially-constructed roles? Would the end of the world bring out the best or worst of humanity?

Race and class are examined as are themes of privilege and consumerism. A slow ratcheting up of tension is achieved because the characters lack any information about what exactly has happened in the "real" world outside their vacation, but the reader is given cryptic hints from a sort of omniscient narrator.

Our group of readers were really divided about whether the book is a success or not. Some read it as a dark satire of modern preoccupations and disconnect from the world. They found it gripping, suspenseful and clever. Other readers felt the characters were entirely implausible, or far too unsympathetically drawn; that the plot didn't take them anywhere, and they felt let down by the whole experience. It's true that there's a lot of work for the reader in this short novel. If you don't feel like taking a chance with it you won't have to wait long before the Netflix series comes out.

For our November meeting – our last of 2023 – we will be discussing Everyone Knows Your Mother is a Witch by Rivka Galchen. Join us on Tuesday, November 14 at 6:30 p.m. in the Nell Horth Room of the Sidney/North Saanich Library.

Imagination -

can be fuelled by a good book Every child can love reading, they just need the right story to spark their passion. From board books and early readers to YA and graphic novels, we have a room full of carefully-selected titles for all ages and interests. Ask our kidfriendly, knowledgeable staff what they would recommend for the little reader in your life.

Start their story in The Children’s Bookshop at Tanner’s Books.

at Beacon & Fourth in Sidney 250 656 2345 | tannersbooks.com

FALL HOURS! Open 2 evenings a week Sat to Wed 9am to 5pm | Thu & Fri 9am to 8pm NOVEMBER 2023 | SEASIDEMAGAZINE.CA 61

Your

Love

LOCAL …

Janis Jean Photography

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.

Haircut - Beard & Mustache trim Shaves - Hair Replacement - Colouration

When we don't sleep well, it is often easy to assume that it can't be a problem with the mattress because it's relatively new and was expensive.

Let Us Help You Sleep Better!

Don't make that mistake. Come and see us and Let Us Help You Sleep Better!

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102-2360 Beacon Ave, Sidney

Haircut - Beard & Mustache trim Shaves - Hair Replacement - Colouration

BOOK AT: 250 533-1177 or thegentlemenscave.ca

2481 Sidney Avenue, Sidney BC V8L 1Y8

THE SHOP

Tue-Sat 10-5 Sun-Mon 11-3 9719 First St. Sidney

N PE

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YS

Five years ago, Sidney Mattress & More was established as a boutique style Mattress and Bed store.

Our goal is to provide a good selection of excellent beds and mattresses for all your needs in a pleasant environment without pressure, sales gimmicks, ridiculous markups and nonsense. We want the experience to leave you comfortable and smiling. Our pricing is fair and includes free delivery in the area.

We also remove and dispose of your old items.

We feature Restwell's Back Supporter series.

These are made in Surrey B.C., using top quality foams certified not to off-gas and springs that are made of very high quality tempered steel. These beds are built to provide incredible support and comfort, and are built to last with 20 years of warranty at affordable prices. Latex is a popular material in mattresses these days and we have a selection using latex as well as memory foam.

Many of us are moving to smaller spaces. Sidney Mattress & More handles Small Space Solutions including Trundle Beds, Chest Beds and Murphy Beds with novel concepts. If you'd like to dress up your space, we handle upholstered and wood bed frames and headboards. Need pillows sheets or mattress protectors? We have those too! Please come and see us and

Soft, Light and Oh! So Cosy.

Heritage blankets woven in New Zealand with the soft wool of Stansborough Grey Sheep. Fit both king & queen beds.

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LET US DO THE CLEANING So you can focus on what's most important

info@lmlcleaning.ca | www.lmlcleaning.ca

DCC Cabinets Local, affordable custom cabinets … right here on the Saanich Peninsula! We offer a full-service shop, from design and manufacturing through to the installation of our exceptional product.

Brentwood Bay Village Empourium

250.412.3472 deepcovecustoms.com 2071 Malaview Ave, Sidney (call for appt.)

Seaside Cabinetry & Design is a boutique-style cabinet showroom located in downtown Sidney.

Custom Design, Merit Cabinetry, Lifetime Warranty. We have hundreds of styles and colours to choose from.

Showroom Open by Appointment

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AND

TIMELESS PIECES FOR YOUR HOME AND GARDEN

inspired holiday gifts decor & decorations stocking stuffers Garden Court 105-2360 Beacon Ave 778.351.2773 hansellhalkett.com

Brentwood Bay Village Empourium has become a popular destination in the heart of the Saanich Peninsula. Delightfully festive during the holidays, Empourium is decorated and filled to the brim with beautiful and unusual gift ideas sourced from local, regional and global makers, and offers shoppers a merry and bright change from the crowds at the malls or big box stores.

Relax with a seasonal latte, lunch or treat and complete your Christmas shopping, whether you need a gift for under the tree, a keepsake ornament or unique little items for filling stockings.

Empourium's unique hybrid offerings of food and beverages, delightful retail merchandise, art and locally made crafts ensures you can find something for everyone. The friendly staff, relaxed general store vibe and curated art shows featured on the wide curving wall complement the continually evolving array of gifts, apparel, cards and home décor.

Empourium boasts a five star ranking on Trip Advisor and other review platforms. As one reviewer wrote: "An interesting range of gifts and local products. The most delicious coffee is served – worth driving across town! Lots of yummy snacks and light lunch offerings. All the staff are very friendly and welcoming.'' The team at Brentwood Bay Village Empourium look forward to greeting you this holiday season!

250.656.3486 • #107-2360 Beacon Avenue • Sidney, BC Located in the Garden Courtyard Next Door to Home Hardware

Join Our Pemberton Holmes Sidney Office in Remembering Those Who Sacrificed Their Lives with 2 Minutes of Silence November 11 at 11am

Lisa Redding

Wendy Herrick

Stephen Postings

Gaye Phillips

Patrick Achtzner

Inez Louden

Offering Real Estate Sales with Commercial, Residential and Strata Property Management Service Divisions www.pembertonholmes.com

Ian Massender

T R A D E S T U D E N T S P OT L I G H T

by Heidi Hackman & Colleen McNamee, District Career Coordinators, SD 63 photo by Kathryn Alvarez Photography

THE PERFECT FIT:

Tori Sears

It may have taken a trade sampler program to do the trick,

but Tori Sears has found that being a pipefitter/steamfitter is just the right fit for her. The Saanich School District has two trades samplers in partnership with Camosun College: TASK in the first semester at the Saanichton Learning Centre and TEx in the second semester at Claremont. In her 11th-grade year, Tori participated in a trade sampler program (TEx).

Although the TEx program focused more on plumbing, the Camosun instructors did talk about pipefitting and steamfitting, which peaked Tori's interest. That was all it took; Tori entered the pipefitting competition and won the bronze medal at the Skills Canada regional competition that year. With her interest and growing confidence in her abilities, she was ready to try working in the industry. Her career teacher, Remo Bussoli, got her a summer work experience at Seaspan so she could see what working in that field was going to be like. Tori "is very grateful for this experience because these trade jobs might not be for everyone and to get to see what it was like before fully committing was very comforting."

Tori was very committed to her career choice and worked hard.

In the second semester of 12th grade, she went back to Seaspan to get the hours she needed to take the pipefitting/steamfitting apprenticeship (Level 1) program starting in May 2023. When asked how she felt about being the youngest in the class, she said: "the instructors made class very welcoming and as well it was nice having a

small class of 16 people. I used the resources provided from Camosun for assistance with math and reached out to individual instructors.

I appreciated the time instructors took to talk to me and figure out ways to make things work for me."

The recent Claremont grad loves "the variety in pipefitting down at the Seaspan yard, working on boats such as cruise ships, frigates, fish boats, submarines and more but also working in a shop and fitting on a bench. I have been moved around a few times so far in my time at the yard and it has been very good to help get to know the community of pipefitters in the yard. I also really appreciate my coworkers; they are a lovely group of people who will always take the time to show, teach or help me with new things."

Tori's mom Tanis has supported her daughter along her journey.

She is quick to say: "the truth is this is 100% Tori's journey. A journey that has been lined with people that care and are supportive and have made Tori feel like she is part of a family. A perfect fit for sure." Good luck to Tori and congratulations to her for following her own path towards a successful career.

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250-658-2725 | 5325 Cordova Bay Road at Mattick’s Farm NOVEMBER 2023 | SEASIDEMAGAZINE.CA 65

M E E T YO U R N E I G H B O U R S

by Jamila Douhaibi | photo by Leah Gray

Passionate about the Peninsula: Jennifer Van Es

A staple in the Sidney community, the SHOAL Centre on Resthaven Drive is a hub for the Saanich Peninsula's seniors, but also offers services for the whole community. Jennifer Van Es joined the SHOAL team in 2015 and recently took on the role of Director of the Centre this past June. Passionate about the Peninsula and the work she is doing at SHOAL, this month's Meet Your Neighbours highlights the Centre and Jennifer's work with it.

The SHOAL Centre is owned by the Town of Sidney and operated by Beacon Community Services. It includes assisted living apartments, an exercise room, silversmith shop, games room, woodworking shop, crafts and pottery rooms, and a variety of meeting and auditorium-sized rooms for different events and activities. Heavily enmeshed in the community, the SHOAL Centre caters to the evolving needs of those who use it. Jennifer says that individuals often "come in for one thing and find a multitude of other supports and services that may be of benefit to help empower 66 SEASIDEMAGAZINE.CA | NOVEMBER 2023

and improve lives." More than just a place to be social and meet new friends, the Centre also has wellness programs, helps with navigating housing and assists with preparing and filing tax returns.

Jennifer was born in Alberta and moved to B.C. in 1996. Her background is in dentistry, but she shifted to teaching children and adults through recreation programs. After moving from Courtenay, she started working with SHOAL as an administrative assistant and says "I fell in love with the Centre, the people who use it and the community we serve." She believes that there is great importance in looking out for, and supporting, each other. Jennifer says that Beacon Community Services finds gaps and looks to address them, and her values align with "Beacon's vision to help people, empower communities and improve lives."

There is a big team of volunteers that work alongside the staff to offer an inclusive space where individuals feel connected to the town and wider Saanich Peninsula community. Jennifer says that the

"SHOAL Centre is focused towards seniors, but it is open to anyone and any age."

The space is also rented out and caters everything from small meetings to bigger events like weddings. The money made goes back into the Centre, enabling it to be a sustainable space that helps "to bring people together, decreasing isolation and increasing socialization."

As the director, Jennifer's responsibilities are nearly endless. She overlooks all of the recreation programs and activities, manages the volunteer support, oversees rentals and catering for events, and manages the SHOAL kitchen, which is open 365 days a year.

Jennifer is also in charge of the "Better at Home" outreach program for Saanich Peninsula seniors, and the "More than Meals" program, both of which are funded by the United Way. When she's not busy at the Centre, Jennifer says her other passion is her family – with four children, eating, camping, fishing and playing games together are the highlights of her days. To Jennifer, her family and her community are her top priorities. Before becoming Director at SHOAL, Jennifer was the Activities and Rental Coordinator. She received an award from Rotary while in this role because of her dedication to ensuring that the Centre was available to the community following the pandemic. She says "I opened the Centre weekly – at 6 a.m.! And adapted their catering in alignment with COVID protocols so they could have their important meetings."

Jennifer ensured that the Rotary could resume their weekly meetings because of the value of community connections. She says that Rotary's mission aligns with Beacon Community Services, as Rotary creates change not only locally but also globally, focusing on "well-being and volunteerism," which are also foundations of the organization.

The SHOAL Centre, and the great volunteers and staff – like Jennifer Van Es – keep the Centre running and are a vital part of our community. "We have a fabulous team at the SHOAL Centre," says Jennifer, "and it is a privilege to work in this capacity."

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OFF THE VINE

by Tilar J. Mazzeo

It’s Never Too Early to Get into

Holiday Spirits When it comes to the winter holiday season, I am not a lightsup-after-Thanksgiving kind of gal, though I remain genuinely impressed by the energy and good cheer of a family friend who wears Christmastree ornaments as earrings each season. Last winter, in a Scrooge moment, I might have gone so far as to throw an alternative Roman Saturnalia, complete with homemade fermented garum fish paste. Roman cuisine sure has come a long way in the last two millennia.

But what never fails to please as gifts are homemade winter spirits, and the bottom line is: if you want to start handing these out by the time the holiday season is in full swing, you need to start these infusions, along with your fruitcakes, before November is out.

So this year's "It's Never Too Early to Get into Holiday Spirits" column is a round-up of three high-spirited and easy-to-make drinks for gifts or entertaining with around-the-world cultural heritage. Gussy them up in pretty bottles, and cross Aunt Edna off your list. Next month's column will be dedicated to non-alcoholic holiday options.

Ancient Roman Conditum Paradoxum I feel I've been unfair to the Romans. Fish paste aside, we need more Saturnalia! Here was an event in which the central feature was your boss waiting on you hand-and-foot. I know which millennia I want organizing the office work party.

Conditum Paradoxum is Latin for "spicy surprise wine," and the saffron and pepper in a sweet spiced wine definitely is a culinary twist. I make it as a lightly fortified version that will last throughout the holiday season. Concocting it is simple. Take a cup of vodka and infuse with a teaspoon of fennel seed, a teaspoon of black peppercorns, a pinch of saffron and a bay leaf. Discard the spices after two weeks. Warm a bottle of inexpensive white wine with a few dates and half a cup of honey. Mix the vodka and wine once cooled, and it will last a month or more in the fridge. Serve hot as a mulled wine or over ice, with a splash of sparkling water, as a unique winter spritzer.

West-Indian Allspice Dram Who doesn't want to be transported to Jamaica come November? This infused-rum liquor, with rich holiday-baking

Courtesy of www.vecteezy.com.

aromatics, has been a West-Indian favourite since the 1850s.

Making it is a cinch: take a 750 ml bottle of decent-quality rum.

Add 3/4 cup of allspice whole berries. Wait two weeks. You may need to divide the rum into separate Mason jars due to volume.

After two weeks, discard the allspice. Make a quick hot syrup by dissolving 2/3 cup of brown sugar, 2/3 cup of molasses, and 2/3 cup of white sugar in four cups of water. When cool, add to the spiced rum and wait another week.

The dram can be enjoyed neat, added to holiday baking (especially helpful if that fruitcake is hard as a rock), or my favourite cocktail comes from a mixology recipe for an "Allspice Old-Fashioned" published in Food & Wine a few years ago: 1.5 oz Jack Daniels, an ounce of allspice dram, a dash of Angostura and a dash of orange bitters, on the rocks, with a twist. Almost makes me want to wear those Christmas-ornament earrings.

Scandinavian Aquavit This recipe dates back to the 1500s, but its starring role in our holiday festivities is as the featured liquor of the Boxing Day Tom Cat Breakfast. It's possible I have made up this holiday tradition. I thought everyone knew about Tom Cat Breakfasts, but apparently Google does not agree. Allow me to initiate you.

Boxing Day is, as we all know, the seventh-inning slump of the holiday season. You need a break already. Tom Cat Breakfast is an adult-only brunch, the seventh-inning stretch, if you will, comprised of smoked salmon, blinis off the griddle, caviar if you are feeling fancy, quiet, civilized conversation, and either Virgin Bloody Marys for the penitent or ice-cold aquavit for the obdurate.

You can cheat, of course, and purchase aquavit, but it's easy to make and far superior when homemade. To make, it's just a 750 ml bottle of vodka (my local go-to for infusions is Sid's out of Delta, B.C.), infused for two weeks with two teaspoons of caraway seeds, a sprig of fresh dill, a teaspoon of fennel seed, and the peel of one small lemon and one small clementine, with pith removed. Wait for two weeks. Strain.

Done. Place in freezer. Serve neat, on the rocks, or, for those who can't quite decide, as a perfect basis for a regular Bloody Mary.

NOVEMBER 2023 | SEASIDEMAGAZINE.CA 69

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Cocktails Aperol Spritz Refreshing and complicated!

Aperol, prosecco and soda over ice.

Rose Gold Black raspberry liqueur, prosecco and a citrus twist.

Soho Lychee Liqueur, Pama pomegranate liqueur, vodka, cranberry juice and a lime wedge.

Dinner Fraser Valley Duck Breast

brioche bun stuffed with lemon basil infused baby lobster and blue crab salad and artisan greens.

Wild Mushroom & Pear Flatbread Fresh basil

a creamy cheese mix and finished with Asiago. Broiled to a golden brown and served with house-made tortilla chips.

pesto, baby arugula, Asiago and chèvre cheeses.

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tortilla, artisan greens, tomato jam, red onion, honey-cured bacon and goat cheese with a blackberry aioli.

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West Coast Cioppino Wild sockeye salmon, Argentinian red prawns, Digby scallops and seasonally fresh seafood, sweet pepper salad, local fingerling potatoes, roasted fennel, tomato and saffron broth, herb-toasted baguette.

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Crispy Chicken & Waffles Two Belgian waffles, crispy fried chicken thighs, coleslaw, mapleinfused peach compote, chipotle aioli and housepickled red onion.

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U N I Q U E LY PENINSULA

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

A small business with a big heart. Rodco Draperies and Upholstery is a family-owned local business that delivers an immense amount of experience, skill and talent. For over 45 years they have been surpassing their much larger competitors, proving that what makes a great business is all about what they bring to the table. Father-andson owners, Roger and Field Comartin, specialize in custom window treatments, including motorized curtains, drapes and blinds. They are skilled artisans, designing and installing sophisticated window coverings for every room in a house or business, as well as offering topnotch upholstery services.

Patients at the Royal Jubilee Hospital have the father-son team to thank for increasing their safety and comfort during their stays. They installed motorized blinds that patients can operate from their beds, as well as supplyied special mesh shower curtains for all the shower stalls. These curtains help to prevent against water-causing accidents and are made from antimicrobial fabrics, ensuring a clean and sanitary environment.

There is no project too big or too small. From draperies in your child's bedroom to the penthouse at the Victoria Hilton Hotel; from reupholstering the Roost Restaurant to your antique 19th-century chairs; from motorized shades at hospitals to motorized black out blinds for your media room – Roger and Field offer a wealth of experience.

The pair has left their creative mark on many houses and businesses in Victoria and on the Saanich Peninsula. They are currently working hard on the Sidney Suites, The Roost, the Royal Jubilee Hospital, The Empress, and St. Andrew Abbeyfield House – all repeat customers.

They have also been working on installing 27 motorized shades at a home in Mill Bay and blackout shades for two nurseries. The duo keeps busy and are always up for another project or challenge.

After over four decades, since 1976, this father-son team are still the company to go to for trusted interior decorating. They transform residential, institutional, hospitality, hospital and commercial environments with their gorgeous range of window coverings, upholstery, furniture, bedding, and shower curtains, with the best brands available. To view their projects and book a free consultation, visit www.rodcodrapesblindsupholstery.ca or call Roger and Field at 250-656-4642. The duo is available to chat 24/7 and answer the phones themselves.

"As one of the smallest big companies on the Island, our service is second to none," says Field. Roger adds: "when you are a Rodco customer, we take good care of you and help to make your life easier and better." Small in size, but big in making, and keeping, customers happy.

by Jamila Douhaibi

SERVICE WITH A SMILE Thank you for your support!

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F R O M T H E K I TC H E N

by Joan Saunders photos by Kathryn Alvarez Photography

The Perfect Antidote I know cooks aren't supposed to congratulate themselves, but every time I make this recipe I think: "Wow; that's really good." And it is. And it's easy. And, as well, it fills the kitchen with the most delectable scents that are the perfect antidote to a rainy November day. It's a rich and bold way to braise ribs, complemented by just a hint of sweetness.

Beer Braised Short Ribs 5 pounds or about 2 1/3 kilos bone-in short ribs, trimmed of extra fat sea salt black pepper 2 tbsp olive oil 1 red onion, chopped

2 tbsp tomato paste ½ cup balsamic vinegar (a cheap one is fine) 3 tbsp Worcestershire sauce 24 oz dark beer (I use two cans of Guinness, about 3 ½ cups)

2 stalks celery, chopped

2 ½ to 3 cups beef broth (enough to cover meat in pot)

4 garlic cloves, peeled, minced

parsley, minced (garnish)

72 SEASIDEMAGAZINE.CA | NOVEMBER 2023

While it does take some time to cook, by the time you throw it in the oven the dish is on its own. You've already done the work, so you can relax while getting the other components of the meal ready.

You could also prepare the meat the day before you want to serve it, stick it in the fridge, remove any excess fat, then reheat it. Having that time to rest adds even more satisfying flavours to the dish.

If you find the sauce a little thin after cooking, one option is to remove the ribs from the braising liquid, strain it into a smaller pot and simmer for about 15 minutes to intensify its depth. While you're doing that, you can throw the ribs onto a baking sheet and into a 400° oven to crisp them up a little. It's another step, of course, but one that you might want to try.

The parsnip mixture is a wonderful accompaniment to the meat and works so well with the sauce, but you could always make mashed potatoes or whipped cauliflower. With just a hint of horseradish, there's a subtle kick in the dish that brings it all together. If you're not keen on beer, you could exchange it for a hearty red wine. But the dark ale, along with the tomato and balsamic vinegar, make an intensely flavoured braise that just, well, works.

Season ribs with salt and pepper on all sides. Be generous. Heat large Dutch oven (7 to 8 quarts) over medium-high heat; add enough olive oil to coat the bottom of pot. Once oil is hot, brown short ribs on each side, in batches. Take your time, making sure you get a good sear on all sides.

Place browned ribs on a plate; keep going until all ribs have been seared.

Preheat oven to 325°. Once you’ve taken all of the seared ribs out of the pot, turn heat down to medium-low; pour off all except about 1 tbsp of the oil and fat. Add onion, celery, season with salt, pepper; cook until softened, about 8 minutes. Add garlic; sauté a couple more minutes.

Add tomato paste, stir and cook for a minute, then add vinegar, Worcestershire, beer. Scrape up any bits stuck to the bottom. Return browned ribs to the pot. Try to set it up so the meatiest bits are facing down. If the pan is packed, you can stack them vertically. Add enough broth to just cover ribs. Bring liquid to simmer; turn off heat. Cover pot tightly with foil, then with lid (to keep ribs moist as they cook).

Bake for 3 hours, until meat is falling off the bone. Remove from oven; let the ribs rest, uncovered, for 15 minutes. Skim fat off top.

Can easily be made ahead of time. If doing so: once cool, put in fridge in the pot, then take any fat/oil off the top when you pull it out of fridge. Heat, covered, in oven.

Serve with parsnips; garnish with parsley if desired.

Parsnip Mash 2 lbs parsnips, peeled, sliced into chunks 3 tbsp butter ⅓ cup whipping cream 2-4 tsp prepared horseradish (your choice, depending on taste) black pepper In a large pot, combine chunks of parsnips with enough cold water to cover. Place over medium-high heat, cover and bring to a boil. Once pot is boiling, reduce heat to simmer; cook until tender, about 20 minutes. Drain.

Mash hot parsnips with butter, cream, horseradish and pepper until desired texture.

Adapted/Amalgamated from: https://www.oliviascuisine.com/stout-beer-braised-short-ribs/ The Smitten Kitchen Cookbook, Deb Perelman, Alfred A. Knopf Half Baked Harvest Every Day, Tieghan Gerard, Clarkson Potter https://urbanfarmandkitchen.com/beer-braised-short-ribs/ NOVEMBER 2023 | SEASIDEMAGAZINE.CA 73

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Tsawout First Nation Brings New Future To Sidney Whale Watching

by Jesse Holth

There's a new future on the

horizon for Sidney Whale Watching – the company is now officially owned by the Tsawout First Nation. "We just had our grand opening celebration in September," says Conrad Young, Interim Lands Manager and Economic Development Director at Tsawout Nation.

"Our whale watching company was previously owned and operated

by Mike Child," Conrad explains. Since Child is a member of the Kwakiutl Nation, located on northern Vancouver Island, there is another step to make the transition to Tsawout complete. "We're hoping to have a transfer of ownership ceremony with the proper cultural protocols," says Conrad.

So what's next for this new chapter in the business? "We're talking about a possible rebranding," says Conrad, "which would include some components of cultural significance and understanding to Tsawout." This could mean hiring a local Tsawout artist to design a new logo and branding for the company. "We may have a naming contest, and look for an artist that can express the cultural name and its significance in the rebranding, with what would be a Tsawout culturally appropriate or culturally reflective name.

"One great expression came out of our celebration on September 22 – I believe it was Blake Joseph, who is a current Councillor and speaks the language – he stated how the SENĆOŦEN language speaks from a reference of being out on the water, looking toward the land. I think a lot of people were really blown away by that."

According to Conrad, "emerging from the saltwater" is one of the first themes of understanding in Tsawout Nation.

"Our mission is to connect our guests to the wonders of the Salish Sea, through education, awareness and enjoyment of orcas and other marine life," explains Conrad. "When I think of this expression in the current vision and mission, we'll likely imbue more of the company with cultural values of the W̱SÁNEĆ peoples. They believe

in stewardship and respect, manifesting in all their legends and origin stories – the ways of living and knowing and connections to wildlife will be more evident as we express the language and culture."

"We have two crafts: a 30-foot 12-passenger rigid hull inflatable boat, and a 30-foot 12-passenger boat with an aluminum hull. Our tours run about three to 3.5 hours and they're seasonal, from March to October. One of the greatest things about our organization, whether it's a tribute to First Nations people's connection to language and territories, is that we have a 97% success rate in locating the whales," says Conrad. "We also have a guarantee that if you don't see whales, you can join us on another trip for free."

Conrad explains that the magic behind these tours is quite often who your guide is. "We had one of our Council members, J.P. (John Etzel) go out on tour with a group of people from Destination Canada, Destination BC, Indigenous Tourism BC, Indigenous Tourism Canada, and some journalists who wrote articles for their readers in Germany. J.P. is a local Tsawout cultural information carrier and traditional knowledge keeper. Well, after three hours, they didn't want to leave – they just wanted to hear more and more of the true history of these waters from the First Peoples."

It's this component of imbuing history that Tsawout would like to see as part of the whale watching company's new horizons, Conrad says. "With whale watching, there needs to be a sensitivity to the marine life as from the coastal people's understanding – relationship wise, we have just as much obligation to the wildlife and environment as we do to other human beings.

"I think whatever fits in with our cultural alignments will definitely be a staple in Tsawout economic development going forward. We'll be looking for other similar opportunities where there's an alignment of values. I think those are the kind of economic development initiatives that will succeed and also be sustainable." * Note: The Chief is the only official spokesperson for Tsawout Nation.

NOVEMBER 2023 | SEASIDEMAGAZINE.CA 75

I N G O O D H E A LT H

by Jesse Holth

SEAN GRAVES, RMT Bringing Care To You Mobile Massage Therapy Professional & Compassionate

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www.saanichphysio.com 76 SEASIDEMAGAZINE.CA | NOVEMBER 2023

Sean Graves, owner and Registered Massage Therapist at Westcoast Ethos Health & Wellness, was born and raised in the Greater Victoria area. After graduating from the University of Victoria with a Bachelor of Science in Psychology, he completed the Registered Massage Therapy Program in 2020 through the West Coast College of Massage Therapy. Sean has been married to his wife Denise since 2013, and they are happily raising their family here on the West Coast.

Passionate about making massage services accessible for everyone, the phrase "meeting you where you're at" is part of the philosophy at Westcoast Ethos. With a focus on mobile massage therapy, it means bringing healthcare to your doorstep. Why go to a clinic or spa when the massage can come to you? If you're pressed for time, have issues with mobility or can't find childcare, there's no better solution.

Sean believes everyone deserves to unwind, destress and reap the healthcare benefits of massage. "I want people to feel relaxed and find renewed vitality – wherever they are," he explains. Below, we explore some of the benefits of mobile massage.

Convenience In-home massage treatments are an effective and efficient way to experience relaxation – you don't have to find a clinic and figure out how to get there, or waste time and energy that could be better spent elsewhere. Save that for doing what you love! You can easily book a massage appointment online, whenever it fits into your schedule – no more working around the operating hours of a clinic.

Accessibility Sometimes, people who need massage treatment the most are not able to receive the care they need; accessibility can be an issue. For seniors and people with limited mobility or recent injuries, clinicbased care can be a real challenge. Yet these people would benefit greatly from the health advantages provided by massage.

According to a 2018 study in The Journals of Gerontology, integrative health approaches like massage therapy can provide numerous benefits and play "a crucial role in improving health status among older adults." Another study, published in the International Journal of Therapeutic Massage & Bodywork in 2020, found that massage reduces fatigue and edema in people with multiple sclerosis. Two 2016 studies found that massage

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Well-Suited to Family Life Many people do not seek the care they need, simply because it seems like they don't have the time. For busy families and pre- or post-natal parents, the stress of home life can compound in the body, especially when selfcare routines, including massage, are put on the backburner. A 2017 study in the Journal of Complementary and Alternative Medicine concluded that massage is able to "significantly decrease stress and enhance immune function in pregnant women." With mobile massage, you can have treatment in the comfort of your own home, while the baby naps or the kids are at school.

Office Workers Can Destress Many people have transitioned to working from home, which has a lot of benefits, and a few pitfalls. It may make separating your work and home life more difficult, and add to the amount of time spent sitting in front of a computer, along with associated detrimental health effects. This means it's more important than ever to make sure you're taking care of your body, taking regular breaks, and ensuring you have opportunities to destress. For those who continue to work in an office, chair massage is an excellent option.

In fact, a study published in the Journal Ortopedia Traumatologia Rehabilitacja in 2016 found that chair massage in the workplace can effectively relieve "musculoskeletal overload and discomfort of the spine and upper limbs."

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CALL US FOR PHYSIOTHERAPY AND KINESIOLOGY 103-9816 Seaport Pl | 250.208.5942 | activebalancephysio.com

SIDNEY CENTRE FAMILY DENTISTRY Dr. Loren J. Braun

Additional Benefits An in-home massage has a few clear benefits over clinic-based treatment. One of the best is that you are already home – you don't have to worry about transportation, and you can enjoy prolonged relaxation. You can immediately take a warm bath, or take a nap. You can allow yourself to relax fully within the privacy of your own home, in comfortable and familiar surroundings.

With mobile massage, you can really have your cake and eat it too; whether it's in your home, at the office or even outside on a beautiful day, Sean can accommodate your needs. Direct billing is available, and Sean reminds us that most benefits need to be used before the end of the year.

For more information, visit www.westcoastethos.com.

New Patients Welcome • Emergency Treatment Insurance Accepted • IV Sedation Available 250.655.7188 | #215-9764 Fifth St. | sidneycentredental.com NOVEMBER 2023 | SEASIDEMAGAZINE.CA 77

SEASIDE HOMES styled by Hayley Jackson, Viane Designs | photos by Janis Jean Photography

AFTER

78 SEASIDEMAGAZINE.CA | NOVEMBER 2023

MAKE OVER

MY ROOM!

“

We moved into our dream home in 2002. It is a 1964 classic! We loved the larger sizes of the rooms. The problem is: how do you arrange the sitting areas in such large living spaces?

The Family Room/Man Cave has a 1960s pleather bar and a LARGE brick fireplace with three French doors that lead out onto a lovely front patio where we can enjoy the nightly sunsets.

The problem with this room is the layout. How do we incorporate the bar (and update it) with the sitting areas and the TV area and leave the French doors unobstructed to go outside. There is so much potential.

We replaced the carpet years ago with hardwood that is in theme with an older home and it still looks great. I envision updating the 1960s composite walls, putting the TV above the fireplace, upgrading the bar and having a new layout of the furniture with lots of storage on the sides of the fireplace for my hubby’s CD collection. ~ Jodi Noble

BEFORE

Photo by Leah Gray

I knew that this living room/bar/man cave area could be so much more. It had such great bones; all we needed to do was uncover them.

The first thing to do was a loving purge of clutter. It also felt heavy and dark in there, so that meant we needed to lighten up the décor. There was an ample collection of vintage and unique pieces, mostly from their family's history and travels, which I was excited to incorporate into the space.

The original layout needed to be altered to create a more open concept – we managed to scooch the TV back a bit and put it along the wall to maximize the gorgeous view out of the French doors. The sofa was shifted to face the TV and fireplace so it wasn't blocking the flow of the room and opened up the entire space. Moving the recliners to face the French doors left loads of room for passage around.

We replaced the bar chairs and added extra seating in the form of a bench coffee table and ottoman. Removing the black rug that was in the centre of the living room with a lighter, smaller rug brightened everything up. I am absolutely thrilled with how the man cave/living room has transformed into a cozy West Coast-inspired lounge and living room and so are the homeowners. ~ Hayley Jackson, Viane Designs

Layered pillows from Avenue B Home Decor and rented from The Happy Nest create a sofa you just want to snuggle into.

80 SEASIDEMAGAZINE.CA | NOVEMBER 2023

Glassware from Davidson Chambers, antiques, vintage art and bar chairs rented from The Happy Nest create a West Coast speakeasy.

Olive branches from Davidson Chambers and greenery rented from The Happy Nest help create a organic scene around the fireplace.

“

I was elated when I heard that our "Problem Room" was selected for Seaside's Room Makeover! My husband and I have been contemplating a “redo” for some time so we were excited to have a fresh set of eyes to help us get a new perspective.

Hayley did an amazing job! We love the new layout. It makes the room appear more spacious and welcoming. The lighter-coloured fabrics, wooden barstools and fireplace décor brighten up the dark room! Hayley incorporated some of our sentimental pieces to create a lovely family space and still have my husband’s bar/mancave.

Just had to put out these super cool old Life magazines!

When we sit down each evening, we feel like we are in a boutique hotel lounge. Our “Speakeasy” Room has been elevated! We couldn’t be happier! ~ Jodi Noble

NOVEMBER 2023 | SEASIDEMAGAZINE.CA 81

Professional Real Estate & Property Management Services

Stephanie Peat

John Bruce

Dan Van der Vlugt Maureen Vincent

Frank Berke

Anna Clemente & Tony Clemente Clemente Property Group

2405 Bevan Avenue, Sidney BC www.dfh.ca

250.656.0131

HOT PROPERTIES

For Sale on

Vancouver Island

MATTICK'S WOOD! $1,798,000

HUMMINGBIRD VINEYARD $3,575,000

You will be impressed with this immaculate 2000 custom built, 3BD/3BA, 2,410sf home with commanding entrance, incredible natural light, excellent finishing with recent upgrades. Fantastic layout, option for Primary Bedroom on the Main, entertainment-sized living room, gas FP, separate dining room, spacious kitchen w/eating area & easy access to a sunny, south patio. MLS 935901

Enter the front gates and appreciate the beauty of this 5 acre sanctuary. A well-maintained 3,504 sq/ ft West Coast home which includes a chef’s kitchen, an artist's studio loft, extensive outdoor decks for entertaining and plenty of parking. Grow your own grapes, veggies or flowers on this stunning private property. MLS 937552

Ingrid Jarisz* 250.656.4626

Ingrid Jarisz* 250.656.4626

SIDNEY WATERFRONT LIVING! $3,950,000

EXQUISITE & RENOVATED CORDOVA BAY BEACH ESTATES! $1,585,000

Located on a sheltered shoreline near Robert's Bay, this exquisite custom built, 1-level, 3,980sf home is perfectly positioned in one of most desirable waterfront locations. You will be equally impressed with the quality inside. This home has been meticulously maintained, solid mechanics incl. heat pump and offers an exceptional layout. MLS 938963

A rare find in this sought-after complex, with almost 1,900sf of impeccable updates & quality finishes.

Expansive layout of 2BD+Den, 2BA, and largest wraparound deck/patios of 1,050sf with OCEANVIEWS & private access for true west coast outdoor living!

Fantastic plan with abundance of natural light and generous rooms ideal for entertaining. MLS 944186

Ingrid Jarisz* 250.656.4626

Ingrid Jarisz* 250.656.4626

PINNACLE PENTHOUSE! $3,360,000

TOWNHOUSE WITH SUITE $925,000

This STUNNING near-new suite is positioned with 360 Degrees of unsurpassed views of Cordova Bay/Ridge Golf, Salish Sea, Mt. Baker and incredible sunrises & sunsets from every angle. All the designer elements you can dream of including custom upgrades plus private elevator to your rooftop patio with outdoor kitchen and private hot tub.Bonus- secured Double Garage & extra Storage! MLS 937068

WOW!! 4BD/4BA with a LEGAL 1 BED SUITE shows pride of ownership from original owners with updates over the years: paint, carpeting, some appliances. So much to offer in today's market and feels more like a single family home. No age restrictions, pets/ rentals welcome, family-friendly complex with its own playground! MLS 945215

Ingrid Jarisz* 250.656.4626

Ingrid Jarisz* 250.656.4626

(personal real estate corp*)

(personal real estate corp*)

(personal real estate corp*)

(personal real estate corp*)

(personal real estate corp*)

(personal real estate corp*)

NOVEMBER 2023 | SEASIDEMAGAZINE.CA 83

HOT PROPERTIES 3 BEDROOM FAMILY HOME WITH SUITE $1,219,000 On a corner lot allowing extra space for garden area and privacy, this open floor plan home with French doors leading to lovely south west deck has light streaming in all day!

Private 1 bdrm suite with own laundry, double garage/workshop and heat pump are just a few of the appealing features. Close to parks and all amenities. MLS 945095

Maryan van Stolk* 250.656.4626 (personal real estate corp*)

For Sale on

Vancouver Island

PENINSULA OCEANFRONT! Tidman Construction

1.75 acres of sun-drenched waterfront. Unobstructed views of Mt. Baker and beyond. This stunning home built in 2009 by award-winning Tidman Construction has it all. With magnificent gardens, numerous patios, and beautiful lawns for entertaining. Located on a no thru road adding privacy and tranquility.

MLS 934136

Maryan van Stolk* 250.656.4626 (personal real estate corp*)

DEEP COVE HOME HAS IT ALL! .78 Acre

WATERFRONT! Seaside Drive $2,890,000

This architecturally designed home is open concept with high ceilings and is perfect for entertaining.

Main floor just under 3000 sq/ft and includes the primary bedroom for those who enjoy one level living. The sun drenched property includes gardens, workshop, recreation room, office.

Close to beach access and on sewer!

A spectacular SW facing oceanfront masterpiece is set on .83 acre in French Beach. A showpiece of West Coast architecture, designed by Jim Merrill and has been a recipient of multiple gold Care Awards, this 3 bed, 3 bath, 3633 sqft home is a one-ofkind and is a true artistic beauty. MLS 917112

Maryan van Stolk* 250.656.4626

Maryan van Stolk* 250.656.4626

(personal real estate corp*)

(personal real estate corp*)

BRENTWOOD BAY 1930s CHARACTER HOME

THIS COULD BE YOU! To feature your listing in next issue's Hot Properties contact allison@seasidemagazine.ca.

84 SEASIDEMAGAZINE.CA | NOVEMBER 2023

$1,499,000

On a quiet cul-de-sac sits this professionally renovated stylish yet very functional home. Updates include two heat pumps, "she shed" and so much more! Perfect for extended family and guests, offering 7 BR's, 4 BA's including a LEGAL 2 BR suite and 2 BR nanny as great mortgage helpers!

MLS # 938156 Jordy Harris 250.385.2033

CHARMING FAMILY HOME $929,900 2251 Bradford Avenue, Sidney

Charming family home with income helper on a quiet Sidney Street.

3 bedrooms up, with an additional bedroom down.

Updated kitchen that seamlessly flows onto a southfacing partially covered deck. Fenced yard for kids & pets. Welcome to your ideal family retreat!

BREATHTAKING OCEAN VIEW! $2,895,000 9344 Lochside Drive, Sidney

UNOBSTRUCTED OCEAN VIEW! Gorgeous 2019 built Jenny Martin designed home with ALL THE EXTRAS! 7 Bdr, 5 Bth, (2 Bdr legal suite) 4014sf finished, SPECTACULAR floorto-ceiling windows & vaulted ceiling, Dbl garage with workshop, custom greenhouse, built-in outdoor Twin Eagles BBQ system. Right across from the beach! MLS 942882

Karen Dinnie-Smyth Personal Real Estate Corporation www.karendinnie-smyth.com 250.655.0608

Nicole Burgess | 250.384.8124 nicole@nicoleburgess.com

TOP-FLOOR CONDO $675,000

SPECTACULAR OCEAN VIEW $2,349,000

4163 – 2600 Ferguson Road, Saanichton

3347 Hatley Drive, Colwood Lagoon

Spacious 2-bed/2-bath top-floor condo with west-facing views in the oceanfront 55+ community, Water’s Edge.

Enjoy resort-style living in this nicely updated and well-maintained 1200+ sq. ft. home, even includes its own 110 V outlet for a car charger. Enjoy oceanfront strolls in this location.

Karen Dinnie-Smyth Personal Real Estate Corporation www.karendinnie-smyth.com 250.655.0608

BREATHTAKING EXPANSIVE OCEAN VIEW from every room! Overlooking the City, Cruise ships & Esquimalt docks, mountains & beyond, this 4199sf modern home has 5 Bdr, 5 Bth, 2 LRG Offices + 1 Den (incl.1Bdr+Den legal suite). Exquisitely finished in maple floors, stone countertops & high vaulted ceilings with floor-to-ceiling windows. Steps to the beach! MLS 944642 Nicole Burgess | 250.384.8124 nicole@nicoleburgess.com

ALTERNATIVE TO A SENIORS RETIREMENT HOME $2,198,000

Own your own home and get the services you need to live independently including a daily prepared meal, linen/cleaning and 24hr staffing & organized activities. This 1 bed, 2 bath + den (could be 2nd bedroom) answers all those needs. Guest suite available for visitors. Small dog or cat allowed. MLS 941555

THIS COULD BE YOU! To feature your listing in next issue's Hot Properties contact allison@seasidemagazine.ca.

Willy Dunford* 250.656.4626 (personal real estate corp*)

NOVEMBER 2023 | SEASIDEMAGAZINE.CA 85

19th Saanichton community chriStmaS & Food Bank FundraiSer

saanich fairground • november 26 | 27 • 2022

Food For Families Saturday, December 2nd Participation In Events By Donation to Food Bank Tally-Ho Carriage Rides

10 - 1 at Central Saanich Municipal Hall

as

Christm !

Ev En1t 9-

Pre-Registration Required Online www.saanichtonvillage.com

Christmas Tree Trail Win 1 of 20 Horse Stuffies

Photos with Santa

at St. Mary’s Church (Cultra and East Saanich Rd)

Pancake Breakfast By Central Saanich Lions

By Donation

Cookie Decorating Pioneer Museum

Event sponsored by: by:

Drive-Thru Food Bank: Drop Off at Pioneer Square

Haven Spa - Limited Time Feature

CITRUS & SPICE, WARMING NUFACE FACIAL INDULGE IN THE WARMTH AND REST THAT AUTUMN BRINGS, WHILE LIFTING, TONING AND CONTOURING THE SKIN WITH THE IMPRESSIVE TECHNOLOGY OF THE NUFACE DEVICE.

Receive 15% off any NuFace products when you book this featured service.

250 655 9797 . 9805 seaport place follow us @haven.spaandsalon

86 SEASIDEMAGAZINE.CA | NOVEMBER 2023

saanich fairground • nov 25 | 26 • 2023

Take Note

What to See & Where to Be

by Jo Barnes

Local Folk Fair, Holiday Market NOVEMBER 26 & DECEMBER 3 | 11am-4pm Sea Cider Farm & Ciderhouse | 2487 Mt. St. Michael Road, Saanichton Set in a beautiful orchard with music in the air, it's a seasonal gathering that’s more than fair!

Hosted by the local arts hub and creative collective, MakeShare, this unique event reflects the spirit of the country fair where people gather to enjoy local foods, fun, and festivities and celebrate community.

Folk is the operative word here: created by local folk for local folk with plenty of folk music in the air!

Set in the beautiful orchard grounds of Sea Cider, there will be a vibrant market brimming with 30 handselected local artisan vendors, delicious hot food, hot coffee and doughnuts, seasonal and mulled cider, live festive music and lights, carollers, wreath-making workshops, and a free ornament-making station.

Raffle proceeds will go to The Rainbow Kitchen Society. Parking onsite with overflow area.

Come to the Fair and stay for the magic!

Admission: $5 (includes raffle entry) Children 12 & under free

Contact: hello@makeshare.ca

www.makeshare.ca/holiday-fair

NOVEMBER 2023 | COMMUNITY EVENTS

TA K E N O T E

TA K E N O T E

by Jo Barnes

Grand Gallery Art Days

ONGOING IN NOV Mondays & Wednesdays 9AM-1PM

McTavish Academy of Art 1720 McTavish Rd, North Saanich Looking for a space to create and have fun? Share in the creative energy and ideas? Enjoy lots of natural light, easels, tables and chairs and a cozy woodstove. Bring your own supplies. $5/person drop in; $20/month pass. www.mctavishacademy.ca/open-art-studio/

Exhibit: “The Laundry Room”

Blood Donor Clinic

NOV 6

11AM-5:45PM

Mary Winspear Centre, Bodine Hall 2243 Beacon Avenue, Sidney Make all the difference in the lives of Canadian hospital patients by donating blood! Book your lifesaving appointment online at blood.ca, by downloading the GiveBlood app or by calling 1-888-2DONATE (1-888-236-6283).

Club Night: “Homespun”

NOV 10 7:30-9PM

St. John’s United Church

UNTIL NOV 30 10AM-4PM

Sidney Museum L3 - 2423 Beacon Avenue, Sidney This unique exhibit explores different features of what has been historically viewed as women’s work. The display features artwork done by four local fibre artists as well as a variety of historical artifacts. www.sidneymuseum.ca/the-laundry-room/

Second Annual Christmas Art and Craft Fair

NOV 3&4

Nov 3: 10am-4pm | Nov 4: 9am-3pm

St. Paul’s United Church 2410 Malaview Avenue, Sidney This popular event returns offering a wonderful variety of arts and crafts. Refreshments available. Free entry. www.stpaulsunitedbc.com

First Chance Christmas Craft Fair

NOV 4&5

Nov 4: 10am-5pm | Nov 5: 10am-4pm

10990 West Saanich Road, North Saanich Offering a blend of original and covered music that is influenced by folk, bluegrass, swing and blues, Victoriabased Homespun is led by singer/songwriter Duncan Sutherland and features Bonnie Dennis and Candy Little (vocals), Winnie Cooper (flute), Jeffrey Freed (fiddle), Brad Hawkes (percussion) and John Cornes (bass). The evening is presented by Deep Cove Folk Music Society. $10 admission. www.deepcovefolk.ca/

Fraud & Computer Hacking Prevention Workshop

NOV 14

10-11:30AM

SHOAL Centre 10030 Resthaven Drive, Sidney Sponsored by the Saanich Peninsula Community Response Network (SPCRN), and led by Sunny Lalli of Keating Computers, the session offers important information about identifying and protecting yourself against cell phone and tablet fraud, computer hacking and tech support scams. Register by calling 250-6565537. www.bccrns.ca/

The Socrates Café

NOV 14 & 28 2-4PM

Beacon Brewing

Mary Winspear Centre 2243 Beacon Avenue, Sidney An array of works by artisans from the West Coast and surrounding islands. www.marywinspear.ca, www.firstandlastchance.ca/

9829 Third Street, Sidney A new philosophy discussion group, this offers an opportunity to explore a variety of topics and perspectives, to learn, to share thoughts and to meet new people. No charge.

Sidney Concert Band: A Remembrance Day Concert

O Christmas Tea: A British Comedy

NOV 5 2PM

Mary Winspear Centre 2243 Beacon Avenue, Sidney Honouring Canadian Forces in Afghanistan, this special concert features a 40-member ensemble. Special guests: The Peninsula Singers Ensemble, the Bon Accord Dancers, Dr. Ken Wilson (bagpipes), the 676 Air Cadet Colour Guard, Wayne Speller (trumpet) and Jim Kingham (alto sax). Personal remembrances by: Afghanistan vets, Capt. Jean-Guy Mayer and Sgt. Jayson Kapitaniuk.

Tickets are $25. www.marywinspear.ca/event/

NOV 14 - 7:30PM NOV 15 - 3PM

Nov 19: 3 & 7:30pm at the Royal Theatre, Victoria

Mary Winspear Centre 2243 Beacon Avenue, Sidney Canadian Comedy Award winners James and Jamesy are coming to Sidney this holiday season. The comedy legends return this year with their wildly imaginative show that is packed with wonderful wordplay and comic physicality. Complete and utter fun for all ages! www.marywinspear.ca/

Peninsula Newcomers Club Luncheon

NOV 16 12-3PM

SHOAL Centre 10030 Resthaven Drive, Sidney Welcoming women to the Peninsula since 1987!

Guest speaker Maya Seymour, Community Education Coordinator of the Women’s Transition House. Pre-booking required. For information: www.peninsulanewcomers.com or email pncpublicity@gmail.com.

“Edie Daponte Trio”

NOV 18 2PM

St. Paul’s United Church 2410 Malaview Avenue, Sidney Edie Daponte, Joey Smith and Attila Fias. Free onsite parking and wheelchair accessibility. Tickets: St. Paul’s United Church, Tanner Books, and Eventbrite. For more information: www.stpaulsunitedbc.com/concerts.

Saanich Peninsula Hospital Auxiliary Annual Christmas Bazaar

NOV 18 9AM-2PM

Mary Winspear Centre 2243 Beacon Avenue, Sidney Silent auction, basket raffles, hand-crafted knitting and sewing, jewelry, antiques, home baking and more. Admission by donation: all profits go toward the care and comfort of patients and residents at Saanich Peninsula Hospital.

Christmas Vintage, Retro & Collectible Show

NOV 19

9:30AM-4PM

Mary Winspear Centre 2243 Beacon Avenue, Sidney The largest show of its kind on the Island! $5 entry fee.

Cash Door. 250-220-1645. www.vintageretrocollectible.ca/

Peninsula Singers “The Spirit of Christmas”

DEC 1, 2&3

Mary Winspear Centre 2243 Beacon Avenue, Sidney The family-friendly show features a mixed voice choir, professional band, young artists, dancers, guest performers and MC Jim Kingham. Proceeds go to Saanich Peninsula Hospital & Healthcare Foundation’s Music Therapy Program and Saanich Peninsula Lions Food Bank. Tickets: 250-656-0275, www.marywinspear.ca.

Have something for Take Note?

Email: takenote@seasidemagazine.ca Submission deadline: 1st of the previous month (eg November 1 for December issue events)

ONGOING

Saanich Peninsula Stroke Recovery Association Communication Group Mondays | 10am-12pm Seventh Day Adventist Church 10-11am: Social time – coffee/tea/cookies.

11am-12pm: Individual groups for: • those requiring speech improvement led by a Speech Language Pathologist • those with physical disabilities led by a Kinesiologist • caregivers led by an experienced convenor www.spstrokerecovery.org

Sidney Concert Band Rehearsals Mondays | 7-9pm Peace Lutheran Church This wonderful group of local amateur musicians performs a wide variety of music at six public performances each year. www.sidneyconcertband.ca

Toastmasters for Seniors (Virtual) Tuesdays | 10-11am A wonderful opportunity, via Zoom, for seniors to speak and socialize. For online meeting details, email mastermotivators4671@gmail.com with subject “Seniors Toastmasters.” www.1288.toastmastersclubs.org

Caregivers Connect: BC's Virtual Support Group 2nd & 4th Thursdays | 2-3:30pm Brings people from across B.C. together around a mutual experience of caregiving for a family member or friend. Pre-register each week to attend. Visit www. familycaregiversbc.ca or toll free 1-877-520-3267 ext 1.

LGBTQ2+ for 55+ Seniors 3rd Saturday | 10am St. Paul's United Church This program offers a safe place for community members to make new friends and connections and support one another on their personal journeys.

This is not a counselling group. Participants are encouraged to register to participate, but walk-ins will be welcome. Email: 55plusinsidney@gmail.com.

Repair Café North Saanich 3rd Saturday | 10am–1pm St. John's United Church A free meeting place where voluntary repairers with skills in sewing, carpentry, electrical and bikes can help fix your item on the spot. Plus knife sharpening and tech help with digital devices. For details and to volunteer: www.repaircafenorthsaanich.ca or email: repaircafenorthsaanich@gmail.com.

NOVEMBER 2023 | SEASIDEMAGAZINE.CA 89

CALLING THE SHOTS

NEVER GETS OLD At Amica Beechwood Village, the day is yours to spend any way you wish. Whether you like to keep busy and stay social or relax and take things at your own pace, we’ll work to discover what makes you, you. Together we’ll create a senior living experience that’s all yours, including personalized, professional care that evolves to meet your needs, even as those needs change. And, like spending the afternoon shooting the breeze, that never gets old.

Join us for a complimentary lunch & private tour.

CALL BONNIE OR SANDY AT 250-655-0849

https://www.amica.ca/beechwood-village 2315 MILLS ROAD ■ AMICA.CA/BEECHWOODVILLAGE

WO R D J U M B L E

The owner of a great racehorse named his boat: TIERCELC CSREET LRLODA HDAEAWIY

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: secretariyacht electric • secret • dollar • hideaway

This jumble was created by The Blue Sheet Club, a group of brain injury survivors. The Cridge Centre for the Family's Brain Injury Services provides independent housing with support for survivors of brain injury. Through the development of support groups like The Blue Sheet Club, we strive to provide opportunities for personal development and reintegration in the community. Creating Word Jumbles are a great way to improve cognitive functioning. Plus they're fun too! Enjoy!

NOW OFFERING

CUSTOM CLOSETS

*main showroom only Designer Roller Shades with LiteRise®

Applause® with PowerView® Automation

Luminette® with UltraGlide®

BLINDS, SHADES, SHUTTERS, DRAPERIES, UPHOLSTERY & MORE 250.656.7659 www.outlooksdesign.com

Showroom: 101 - 9818 Third St, Sidney, BC Main Showroom: 2745 Bridge St, Victoria, BC

©2023 Hunter Douglas. All rights reserved. All trademarks used herein are the property of Hunter Douglas or their respective owners. The PowerView® App is required for programmed operation.

NOVEMBER 2023 | SEASIDEMAGAZINE.CA 91

Peninsula Panthers

Panthers mourn the passing of former bench boss The Peninsula Panthers and the entire hockey community of Greater Victoria and Saskatchewan were shocked to learn of the passing of former Panthers Head Coach Brad Tippett. He passed away all too soon at the age of 64 on September 29, 2023.

The Tippett name is well known throughout North America. Brad and his brother Dave played their Minor and Junior Hockey in their home Province of Saskatchewan. Brad went on to have a four-year NCAA stay at the University of Michigan and Captained the Wolverines for his final two seasons there. He was signed by the Winnipeg Jets of the NHL and played in the American Hockey League however never managed to crack the National Hockey League. He coached and was the Assistant General Manager with the Prince Albert Raiders before relocating to Regina where he took the helm of the Regina Pats of the Western Hockey League as both the Head Coach and Director of Hockey Operations. His stint with the Pats lasted four years. Tippett was married with two sons and he returned to coach at the Minor Hockey level once again.

“...he realized hockey wasn’t everything and that maturing into honest and respectful adults was In the summer of 2016, Tippett travelled to the Sidney area on vacation the ultimate goal”

to visit his mother who had relocated to the area. He attended a couple of Panthers summer ice slots and ended up having some long discussions with the Club’s owner Pete Zubersky. The two seemed to connect and Tippett was hired as the Cats Head Coach that summer.

He held the position until January 3, 2022 and was running an evening practice when word came through that 18-year-old forward Grant Gilbertson had been killed in a motor vehicle accident on the way to practice. The news hit the Coach hard as Gilbertson and Tippett had an extremely close relationship. He took a leave of absence and never did return to the coaching ranks at the Junior level. The Club banded together with the loss of their teammate and coach and went on a run for the rest of the Regular Season and Post Season, resulting in the winning of a Vancouver Island Junior Hockey League Championship in six games over the powerful Oceanside Generals.

Brad Tippett September 8, 1959 - September 29, 2023

Dr. Loren Braun is a Dentist in Sidney who has two sons that together have a playing span of six years with the Panthers. Braun is a close friend of the Club and often helped Tippett on the ice by moving pucks during practice. The two had a close relationship and Tippett often relied on Braun both on and also away from the ice.

Dr. Braun shared his thoughts on Coach Tippett: “Both of my boys, Riley and Payton, had Brad as a coach. He created a positive environment in which it was always fun and safe to come to the rink. He was someone they could respect and trust. He went above and beyond to support his players and realized that hockey wasn't everything and that maturing into honest and respectful adults was the ultimate goal. We watched other coaches through the years berating and embarrassing their players, but even though Brad was competitive and pushed the kids, he always did it in a constructive and positive way. Brad also stressed to the kids the importance of school, and made sure they all knew that education came before hockey.

On a personal note, I will miss Brad. I spent a couple years helping him out on the ice during Panther practices and really appreciated his friendship and all the hockey stories he shared.

He was a very compassionate person and only wanted the best for those around him.”

92 SEASIDEMAGAZINE.CA | NOVEMBER 2023

Jr. Hockey Club Len Dawes spent 3 seasons in the WHL with the Victoria Cougars before being drafted 36th overall in the 1980 NHL Entry Draft by the Chicago Blackhawk Organization. He spent two seasons in Springfield with the Blackhawks American Hockey League farm team, however knee injuries prematurely ended his playing career.

Dawes was a fixture as an Assistant Coach with Tippett.

@ppanthersvijhl

Photos by Christian J. Stewart Photography

“Players loved playing for Brad. He demanded effort but they knew he cared about them and he always had their back. Brad had a lot of time for his players to support and counsel them on hockey and on life. He supported and encouraged them with school or work commitments and decisions. Brad was a big fan of building a positive team culture; he encouraged and supported Team leaders to set a positive tone both on the ice as well as away from the rink.”

“Brad had a lot of time for his players to support and counsel them on hockey and on life.”

Sue Hodgson, Owner of Seaside Magazine, shared some comments about Brad Tippett: “Brad was fearless, a competitor and all around nice guy. You would always see him in Sidney doing his daily walks; always a smile on his face and a hug if you needed it! He will be surely missed by myself and so many other people.”

Pete and Coreen Zubersky have owned the Peninsula Panthers since July of 1999 save for a four-year period between 2007 -2011. There have not been many coaching changes during their tenure and they considered Brad Tippett to be an extremely important piece of the Club since his arrival in 2016. Pete Zubersky had daily conversations with Tippett during his time with the Panthers and had some final thoughts of his own to share.

“Brad loved being the Head Coach,” explained Zubersky. “He was passionate about the Club and cared as much as Coreen and I did. I recall when Coreen had business cards made up for him and he was talking to the boys after a big win, he pulled out one of the cards from his wallet and teared up at how proud he was to be the Coach. He was proud of his players and often said that if he’d had a daughter, any one of them would have made a great son-in-law.

We care about the character of the players we bring in here and so did Brad. His two sons are back in Regina and he spoke about them often. I went back to Regina on two occasions with him and he would spend a lot of our time there with his two sons, Chase and Barrett.

Chase was the hockey player and Barrett was a talented wide receiver on his High School football team. I remember watching Barrett play a game when we were back there one time in November. I absolutely froze but Brad was a trooper and could not have been any prouder of his sons. He will be remembered and sorely missed.”

NOVEMBER 2023 | SEASIDEMAGAZINE.CA 93

Last Word from the Editorial Director Deborah Rogers

November can be a bit of an in-between month. Those beautiful blue-sky days of September seem so long in the past, but December and all its festivities are still weeks away. How to make the most of the month when the days are suddenly shorter and it's just possible it might not stop raining?

It's time for hobbies and indoor activities! November will be the last Seaside Book Club meeting until January.

This year, our seventh, has been fantastic. Every month we've read something very different, and an engaged and enthusiastic group of readers attend the meetings and read along at home. Literary events continue in our community though, including a Reading Series from Sidney LitFest (pg 39) this month. Make sure you take a look through our events listing, Take Note (pgs 8789); there are lots of social opportunities as well as the arts events.

Through our long hot summer I took every chance I could to swim in the sea. I know there are many hardy types who will continue ocean dips year-round, but I decided to take my habit indoors this fall, returning to the pool at Panorama for the first time in many years. We're so lucky to have this facility on the Peninsula with plenty of space for swimmers of all abilities, and the swirl pool for a post-swim relax. It's a great time to try a new – or revisit an old – activity, and everyone knows movement is good for the body and spirit.

Several of our writers touch on the idea of transitions this month including Little Adventures with a first preschool visit (pg 33), Natural Path with wellness tips for the season change (pg 57) and Living Off the Land, looking at succession planning at Symphony Vineyard (pg 58). As the seasons come and go our lives will see shifts in activity, mood or routine. The trick is to lean into the changes. If all else fails, we can take advice from Tilar (pg 69) and get into the holiday spirit(s) early!

Deb

Photo by Janis Jean Photography.

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