Seaside Times April 2012 Issue

Page 1

april 2012

WEST COAST CULTURE


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Seaside Times

contents

west coast culture – april 2012 issue features

8

Much More Than a Welcome Mat How many people does it take to create a village?

12

Restaurant Spotlight 28 To Everything There is a Season – Brentwood Bay Resort. With Rosmaria 42 Reflections Master survivor; master artist.

A day with fascinating Salt Spring Island resident Rosmaria Behncke.

Columns First Word............................................ 6 Island Dish........................................ 12 Forbes & Marshall........................... 14 Smell the Coffee............................. 27 Weatherwit...................................... 37 Tweet This!........................................ 49 Last Word......................................... 55

42

44

departments 7................................................. Letters 16................................... Can We Talk? 20.............................. Common Cents 24.......................................... Footprints 31.....................................Grey Matters 38........ Young Readers Book Review 47................................... Seaside News 51.............................. Veterinary Voice 52...........................What's Happening 54................................. Entertainment

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On the cover: Saanichton Welcome Totem. Photo courtesy www.joannway.com (see story pg. 8)


first w o rd Ahh … springtime, when the days are getting longer and the cool mornings beg me to head out on an exhilarating run. I plot out my running route carefully and, with a well-crafted playlist to get me through some of the tough hills, I put on my thinking cap. I’ve discovered over the years that training the mind is probably the most important factor that determines running success (of course, it also helps if you enjoy it), and the same notion can be applied to other successes in life. It’s training that gets you out of bed in the morning and allows you to push through that tough meeting or the final stretch of that half marathon. The rewards in running, as in life and work, come in direct proportion to the amount of effort you exert. There’s no question it takes discipline. Running is strengthening, but also very humbling. Imagine, just for a minute, that you’re steps away from the finish line and you can’t feel the soles of your feet.

Every muscle feels heavy, flimsy and exhausted, yet somehow you negotiate yourself to the finish line. What brings you to your goal? Is it desire? Discipline? Endurance? You decide. In the meantime, run slowly through these 56 pages (no sprinting allowed), and you’ll see evidence of the desire, discipline and endurance of our incredible writers, photographers and the community people interviewed. Our newest writer, Ayla Lundy, introduces us to Rosmaria, a 91-year-old survivor of World War II, an artist and "a testament to just how strong the human spirit can be." Our cover this issue was very challenging, but at the 11th hour I reached out to local photographer, JoAnn Way, and Saanichton Village Association Board of Directors member Jim Townley, and they made it happen. They had the desire. Now you’re probably thinking: “Why run? Why even talk about running? Why endure such pain?” Sounds crazy, doesn’t it? Many runners say their best and most creative thoughts take place during runs. Some writers who run report that while their feet hit the pavement they’re able to create and work through some of their toughest plots. So why not be a creative mind yourself? Push that envelope, dig deep, try something you’ve never done before. It doesn’t even have to involve slipping on a pair of sneakers. Why not challenge yourself, and tell me how you feel. I hope you feel better; I know I do!

Sue Hodgson, Publisher (pictured with family dog Kuper)

Tulips are Red, Daffodils are Yellow and April is … Prime Planting Season! Come See What’s Sprouting at Vancouver Island’s Largest Garden Centre

7874 Lochside Drive, Saanichton 250-652-2342 www.marigoldnurseries.com 6

SEASIDE  TIMES

Loyalty Car

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letters

www.seasidetimes.ca Publisher, Advertising Sales

Seaside Times welcomes your feedback! Send letters to the editor via editor@seasidetimes.ca. Letters may be edited for space and content. Blessed to live here. I have lived in Sidney for almost a year. I want the people who live here to be reminded what a blessing it is to live in this community. I have lived in a few different places in Canada and have never felt so settled, so quickly. We seem to be in a great time warp here in Sidney: almost stuck in time, from about 30 years ago, when neighbours helped each other, people smiled on the sidewalks when passing and you felt safe. This is a small community with a big heart and the community spirit is fully alive here.

Sue Hodgson 250.516.6489 sue@seasidetimes.ca

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

Advertising Sales Lori Swan 250.516.6489

This Month’s Contributors Trysh Ashby-Rolls • Melanie Barnes • Jennifer Bowles Marianne Brackenridge • Shelley Breadner Chris Burdge • Sharlene Coss • Dennis Drechsler Michael Forbes • Doreen Gee • Valerie Green Linda Hunter • Tina Kelly • Linda M. Langwith • Ayla Lundy Amanda Punch • Virginia Rouslin • Steve Sakiyama Steve Sheppard • Geoff Smith • Erik Solbakken Sarah Tanopolsky • Jim Townley • Jo-Ann Way Brenda Whittingham • Heather Zais Seaside Times magazine is printed 12 times a year in Richmond, British Columbia by Rhino Print Solutions. Reproduction in whole or in part without permission is prohibited. Reproduction requests may be made to the editor or publisher via the above means. Views of contributors do not necessarily reflect the policy or views of the publisher and editor. Staff of the magazine cannot be held responsible for unsolicited manuscripts or photographs.

In-Room at:

There are so many organizations here to enhance people’s lives. I had only been here a few weeks and was invited to go to a meeting of the Women’s Auxiliary to the Sannich Peninsula hospital. I encourage all ladies that move to this area to come to a meeting at the hospital at 10 a.m. the second Tuesday of the month. You will get a warm welcome and see how these ladies work. Belinda Thomas, Sidney

✢ ✢ ✢ Thank you so much for running my article; this is fantastic news! This is my first time having my work published, and available to the public. Thanks again, this has honestly made my day. Sincerely, Amanda Punch

✢ ✢ ✢ Once more I offer my sincere congratulations on another excellent publication. Anita and I fight over who can read it first and at the hotel it's so popular I am forever filling up the racks (not a complaint, I enjoy doing it). Well done. Kenny Podmore

✢ ✢ ✢

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I loved the article "Meditations on a Garden in Early Spring" by Barry Mathias. I'm not a gardener myself but my mother has always had one and even at 95 she enjoys her flowers. I especially loved the line "the dog has a personality change and becomes a strip mine engineer." Another great issue. Bob Orchard

✢ ✢ ✢

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Cedarwood The

Inn and Suites

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* Editor's Note: Our apologies – in the March issue Orr's Family Butchers ad, the hours listed for the Quadra and Brentwood Bay locations were incomplete. See this month's ad on page 45 for complete store hours.

www.seasidetimes.ca

april 2012

7


Much More Than a Welcome Mat by Jim Townley

SVA Mission Statement:

photo courtesy Geoff Smith

"Envisioned by the residents of the community, committed to showcasing local tourism, farm gate and retail opportunities, while enhancing the beauty of the area through the establishment of a neighbourly village where residents can walk and cycle in a healthy and welcoming environment."


Y

ou have often heard the phrase "It takes an entire community to raise a child," but how many people does it take to create a village? Not as many as you might think if you live in Saanichton. It’s easy to develop a deep affinity for what many consider "the heart of the Saanich Peninsula," and it’s truly amazing when a single idea takes on more life than you ever imagined. That’s exactly what transpired in the village of Saanichton where, over the past five years, local businesses and residents have come together to create a community vision. The word "Saanich" is a Coast Salish word that means "fertile soil," which is no surprise to those who live here, but what was once a place people travelled through en route to someplace else is now a bustling village for all to enjoy. Beyond the fields and landscape, a simple coffee conversation with a few people has now grown to an Association of over 25 who have taken on cleanup, beautification and community gathering projects, all with the goal of creating a deeper sense of community. Saanichton Village Association President Jan Carroll looks back on the start of things and is surprised how quickly time has gone: “It seems like yesterday that we started our Patterson and East Saanich corner clean-up. We replanted that entire corner with gardening grannies Michelle Campbell, Grace Frampton, Veronica Boyd and the lone man on the project, Dean Aitkin, who now keeps things nicely maintained."

Come In and Try our FanTasTIC new menu! Gluten Free Buns & Bread Available!

Monday & Tuesday: Dinner Pie Specials Wednesdays $8.99 2 Piece Fish & Chips Thursday Nights are Wing Nights! Saturday - Wednesday: Free Pool All Day & Night $5 Appy Specials 9 - 11 pm Every Day

7806 East Saanich Road, Saanichton 250.652.1575

The SVA has now come together with local First Nations carver Doug LaFortune, his son Bear and wife Kathy to produce the first of what will be five Welcoming Totems into the village of Saanichton. “Our goal is to have one on every road that comes into the village,” smiles Jan. “Doug’s contemporary interpretation of native art is not only refreshing, but relevant to what you might see in other villages on the West Coast in the future.” The SVA needs to raise an additional $18,000 to complete their Welcoming Totem project. So far they have received $9,000 in donations from the Spelt family, Anchor Insurance, resident Katherine Nutt and the Municipality of Central Saanich, and the call now goes out to local residents who would like to donate an extra $20, $50, or $100 to help finish off this unique community project. The contribution of the Totems to the community is meant to be a legacy, one that will constantly remind us that there’s nothing more comforting than when someone puts out the welcome mat when you come for a visit. Donations to the project can be made to: Saanichton Village Association, P.O. Box 19, Saanichton, B.C. V8M 2C3. Visit the Village website at www.saanichtonvillage.ca. Pictured (top to bottom) Doug "Bear" Horne/LaFortune Jr., Jan Carroll, Doug LaFortune, Kathy LaFortune. Jim Townley is a Saanichton Village Association Board of Directors member. SEASIDE  TIMES

Finlayson Bonet

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Architecture

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

april 2012

9



Catastrophic Coffee Collapse by Linda M. Langwith Imagine a world without coffee.

to Brazil are under dire threat.

The expensive espresso machine you treated yourself to with the separate container for instant foam is consigned to the back of the kitchen cupboard, along with the unused panini press your husband gave you last Christmas. You no longer snuggle in bed, listening in anticipation to the sound of the coffee grinder, enjoying the resultant rich aroma of those speciality beans as they nestle in the bottom of the Bodum.

According to renowned molecular biologist Dr. April Dupes of the Scherz Institute in Berlin, who has given the name "phytophthora caffeinis" to this latest species, there is absolutely no way of preventing the imminent collapse of the coffee crop. "The best we can hope for is to create a coffee patch, much like the nicotine patch, so that coffee addicts can at least minimize the effects of withdrawal through the use of artificial caffeine." She goes on to suggest that we start cultivating dandelion plants: "Roasted in the oven and ground, the root of the dandelion plant makes a pretty decent coffee substitute. But then, I’m a tea drinker myself," she confesses. The grim news is great for commodity traders looking to cash in on the inevitable spike in coffee prices

The invitation to "Let’s do coffee" from your best friend has been replaced with “Let’s do tea,” which, let's face it, just doesn’t have the same cachet. Days, weeks, months without an extra foamy latté will be torture. One after the other coffee shops will close – where will you do homework, read, surf the net, hang out with friends?

No, this is not some nightmare from which you will awake in time to have your java jolt. The bad news is that coffee plants all over the world are dying, and all because of a nasty little mould with the unpronounceable name phytophthora, which means "plant destroyer" in Latin. Remember the Potato Famine in Ireland that wiped out the main food crop of the Irish in the mid1800s and led to mass starvation and emigration? Well, this is the same beast at work in the coffee plantations. Global change is partly to blame, as coffee plants weakened by drought and flood are more likely to come under attack.

Attempts to destroy infected coffee plants have met with utter failure. Burning has no effect on the spores that also remain active in leaf litter and debris. Removal of plant material only serves to spread the infestation on the boots of the workers and the tires of the vehicles. The fear now is that this killer will develop the ability to spread spores through the air and not just the water. Coffee plantations from Ethiopia SEASIDE  TIMES

Optometry Clinic Central Saanich 250-544-2210

caused by a shortage of the beans due to panic buying and hoarding. For the rest of us, this is a catastrophe of unprecedented dimensions. I think I’ll go grab a latté while I can. … April Fools! Linda is the author of “The Golden Crusader,” a mystery/action novel published by Twilight Times Books. Check out her website at www.lindalangwith.com. Photo courtesy Joe Bennett.

Paul Neumann, OD

Gurpreet Leekha, OD

Time to Get New Glasses? Then it’s also time to get a comprehensive eye exam. Eye doctors do more than determine if you see well: they can detect serious eye and health problems that often show no symptoms at the early stages. Conditions like glaucoma and retinal tears that lead to permanent vision loss, and health issues like high blood pressure, diabetes, thyroid disease and even some brain tumours cause vision changes. If you do have vision changes, they’ll assess the underlying cause. A visit to your eye doctor is a vital part of your overall health.

Call Your Local B.C. Doctor of Optometry:

Dr. Paul Neumann I Dr. Gurpreet Leekha #1-7865 Patterson Road, Saanichton • www.cseyecare.com www.seasidetimes.ca

april 2012

11


island dish

Egg Me On!

A

by Jennifer Bowles

h yes … the egg. Fried, scrambled, poached, coddled or hard-boiled, these little gems are true comfort food that have versatility written all over them! An excellent source of protein, and a fairly inexpensive product that delivers stunning richness to any dish, the egg could possibly be one of the world’s most perfect foods! Few people harness the egg's flexibility. Sure, you can have them fried with toast or boiled with a touch of salt, but the possibilities with eggs go far beyond. Recent culinary trends spun the wheel of time and have us heading back to the day of the devilled

egg where the sprinkle of paprika on top has been traded for smoked salmon, tarragon cream, black olives, caviar and even seaweed. One of the most delectable classics I was served recently was a Caesar salad. This wasn’t your usual bowl of warm romaine dripping in a creamy concoction that you so often find in some restaurants. This was cool, crisp pieces of romaine drizzled with a simple dressing of olive oil, garlic, Lea & Perrins, lemon juice, and Tabasco tossed and piled high on a chilled plate. But it didn’t end there: on top of the salad perched a gorgeous, creamy poached egg, sliced so gently that the warm yolk just flowed out and mingled with the lettuce. It was topped with tangy curls of parmesan cheese, a dusting of fresh


cracked pepper and,on the side, a gorgeous oven-warmed wedge of toasted baguette licked with butter … total heaven I can assure you. The best part? You can recreate that at home today! It is perfect for lunch with friends or ideal if you seek a simple weekday dinner away from meat and potatoes.

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(new clients, with participating stylists, The goodness of eggs and the delicious options they offer when you mention this ad) can be found in more dishes than salads and appetizers. Consider them as a topping on your next homemade pizza! Cracked right on top, corralled by a ring of red onion and baked right in, they add super richness and a dose of whimsy to your pie! Why not try one on top of a barbecued beef burger, traditional steak and eggs BEER • WINE • ICE WINE • SPARKLING WINE • CIDER • COOLER or try your hand at a Scotch egg. No longer just old #3 - 2310 Beacon Avenue, Sidney 250.656.2321 school pub fare any more, hard-boiled eggs wrapped in sausage, breaded and then baked are gracing the pages of modern tapas menus, and holding their own as popular sellers on some of restaurants' most exclusive menus! But hands down, my all time favourite has got to be the quintessential comfort food: fettuccini carbonara. Dead simple: sauté a shallot, ½ a medium onion and a little bacon in a skillet with some butter. Not the bacon type? Substitute broccolini.

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In another bowl whisk together 4 eggs, ½ cup cream, a good pinch of salt, fresh pepper and ¾ cup freshly grated parmesan cheese. Place the drained pasta back on low-medium heat, add the cream mixture and the bacon together for 3-4 minutes and stir constantly. Toss this into an extra large bowl , grab a fork, pour a glass of jammy red wine, throw on your pajamas, hop into bed and switch on your favourite movie … luxury at its finest.

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april 2012

13


fo rbes & marshall

Reality Check by Michael Forbes Part of my job as a radio personality is to watch the same shows that our listeners do, and I have found that the more I watch, the less there is to see. Unless of course we are talking reality shows, then you can get your fill. You want to see people swap wives? They got it. Maybe you feel like peeking in on a guy dressed like Marilyn Manson while he kills cockroaches. They got that too. I actually found myself in a semi-coma draped over a La-Z-Boy the other day watching hillbillies catch fish with their hands. Really? I don’t have time for this but, like millions of others, I can’t help watching. I do wish that I could get it all over with within an hour, so maybe the puppetmasters at the networks could condense them all into one. How about “Hairy Bikers Who Pick Hogs and Hoard Them in Storage Lockers?” As you may have noticed, the television landscape offers

no respite for the weary eye sockets, and if you gawk long enough you're going to find yourself watching the most loopy people do the most bizarre things. “My Strange Addiction” comes to mind, and it has sadly become a family favourite. This show features Big Top oddities like a woman who eats her dead husband's ashes. Let me guess: his name is Urnie. How about the women who loves to sip gasoline? Guess they don’t call it a “gas bar” for nothing. Maybe next time she’s thirsty and pulls up to the pumps she’ll see Nathaniel. This guy literally makes love to his red Chevy Monte Carlo. He’s so enamored with his car that he’s had to replace “her” shocks three times. And you thought chewing your fingernails was gross! We sure do like to take a gander into other people's lives and compare them to our own … and it’s usually just to see if we're normal or not! The problem is, a lot of these shows are scripted reality and manipulated by the producers to give us something quirky to watch. If you do indulge, don’t you think that the common folks are far more entertaining than the celebrities? Until Ozzy Osbourne shuffled and mumbled his way through a glimpse into his world, celebrities did not want to allow people to peek behind the curtain into their private lives. Now it seems like all of them have had a reality show or are working on a deal to make one. You know that we’ve reached the point of no return when the most private of celebrities agrees to allow his family to have a camera follow them around. The newest show, debuting next month, is called Mrs. Eastwood and Company and it will mostly feature Clint Eastwood’s wife Dina and their kids. Hopefully, we'll at least get to see Dirty Harry occasionally saunter in the kitchen and say “Go ahead, make my … lunch.” I predict this will be as snooze-inducing as all the other celebrity reality shows. Unless of course he cheats on her with a Buick. Forbes & Marshall are the hosts of Ocean 98.5’s popular morning show. They are one of the few married morning show teams in Canada and have two children, Noah and Adam. Join Forbes & Marshall weekday mornings from 5:30 to 10:30 a.m.

14

SEASIDE  TIMES

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april 2012


Gay Helmsing

ghelmsing@gmail.com

Don Bellamy

info@donaldbellamy.com

Beverley McIvor

bevmcivor@shaw.ca

I cared for Betty Jeff Bryan

Ross Shortreed

ross@rossshortreed.com

Renee Colonnello

reneecolonnello@remax.net

Our Extended Care Unit is home to some very special people – just like Betty. We need your help so that we can provide modern facilities, offer more comfort for residents and help our staff to be more effective.

We ’ re 90% there!

jeffbryan@shaw.ca

Craig Walters

craig@craigwalters.net

Jim Allan

jimaallan@shaw.ca

It’ s our hospital. Please help us reach our fundraising goal.

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

Lisa Dighton

William Bird

ldighton@shaw.ca

wm.d.bird@shaw.ca

Roy Coburn

roy@victoriaacreages.com

Kelly Curtis – Mortgage Architects kelly@mortgagedesigners.ca

Gaye Phillips

gayesoffice@shaw.ca

Rene Blais

renehblais@gmail.com

Debbie Gray

sagegray@shaw.ca

Jack Barker

jack@jackbarker.net


ca n we talk? . .............. Publisher Sue Hodgson talks with Peter Brand, FirstVoices started locally with yourself and John Elliott, head of W S ̱ ÁNEĆ (Saanich) language and culture at the Ƚ ÁU,WELṈEW ̱ Tribal School in Brentwood Bay. How did you ever visualize needing a software application such as this? Between 1999 and 2001, John and I collaborated on the development of a couple of simple Mac-only software programs that enabled our students to create media-rich language projects. When we demonstrated the results at education conferences, our teaching colleagues in other schools expressed an interest in using our early efforts in their own classrooms. Developing those resources for both Mac and Windows platforms on a language-by-language basis was an expensive proposition. At the time, webbased application software was still in its infancy, but John and I recognized that the most cost effective way for First Nations language teachers to develop their own resources was to harness the power and reach of the Internet.

Your initial computer application for language documentation was created by a 17-year-old student in Australia, hoping to teach himself the Indonesian language. Tell me how you discovered this young talent, and where is he now? Early one Saturday morning in 1999, while searching online for language education software, I found a free "shareware" program called "Vocab" that allowed us to generate lists of words in one language with their translations in a second language. After quickly testing the program with a few SENĆOŦEN words and their English translations, I rushed over to John Elliott’s house at 6 a.m. to share the discovery. To this day, John and I consider that "eureka" moment to be the genesis of FirstVoices. Soon after that we contacted the developer of Vocab, Angus Gratton, to suggest that we collaborate on the development of a more sophisticated program that would add audio, video and image capabilities to his text-only Vocab program. After a year of collaboration via over 700 emails, we discovered that our mentor was actually a 17-year-old Aussie high school student! I recently learned that Angus now leads the team developing the control software for the Australian Nuclear Accelerator Program! John and I lucked in on a brilliant young mind for our first foray into software development!


Co-Founder & Manager, FirstVoices™ Would you describe the evolution of FirstVoices from those early concepts at Ƚ ÁU,WELṈEW ̱ Tribal School? In 2001 I took a leave of absence from my teaching post at the tribal school to lead the development of FirstVoices for the First Peoples’ Heritage, Language and Culture Council. I’ve worked full time on the project ever since. We were fortunate to assemble a talented technical team right here in Victoria to develop the original FirstVoices prototype, then continue to add new features as technological advances occurred. We’re somewhat surprised that 11 years later, FirstVoices remains the only multilingual Indigenous language archive in the world. It’s important to recognize that every word and phrase in the FirstVoices database has been uploaded by a communitybased First Nations language champion. First Peoples’ Council provides the tool kit and First Nations provide the content. British Columbia is home to 60% of Canada’s First Nations languages – why is an archive like FirstVoices so important for Aboriginal People? Over the past two decades, I’ve heard many eloquent expressions by First Nations people describing how their heritage languages ground them in their traditional values. So many of the core elements of Indigenous culture, life, art, medicine and history are bound up in this rich linguistic heritage. Repositories like FirstVoices provide the means for First Nations youth to reconnect with their languages, either online or via the latest mobile language apps. It’s critical that we recognize the importance of fully documenting these languages while the few remaining fluent speakers are with us to guide the process. The harsh alternative is that once those speakers are gone, their priceless languages Peter Brand will die with them. Co-Founder & Manager FirstVoices™ Linguists consider that a robust Peter Brand was raised in Tasmania and met his Canadian documentation of an wife Penny while backpacking Indigenous language in northern Australia in 1972. should contain After visiting over 60 countries approximately and completing the 1977 Whitbread Round the World 20,000 words. Do you Yacht Race, they settled in consider that to be North Saanich where they built an achievable goal a home in the woods and raised for each of the 34 two sons, Josh and Aidan. languages in B.C.? An 11-year teaching career at the Saanich Tribal School The First Peoples’ culminated in 2001 with Council recently the concept for FirstVoices.com contracted KPMG to with co-visionary John Elliott. develop a business plan for the complete SEASIDE  TIMES

documentation of each of the 34 B.C. Indigenous languages. The figure they arrived at was $350,000 per language, which would cover the cost of equipment, training, technical and linguistic support over a three-year period. The bulk of those funds would be paid in wages to teams of community-based First Nations language recorders, providing meaningful, culturally relevant employment at a time of critical language endangerment. Compared to the hundreds of millions of dollars spent on the treaty process, this investment represents an excellent opportunity for a true "new relationship" between the federal and provincial governments and First Nations Canadians. How do you envisage this happening? My great hope is that strong political leadership, perhaps in collaboration with a visionary philanthropist or two, will emerge to truthfully acknowledge the debt we owe to First Nations Canadians. We need such a partnership to help restore the languages that were so brutally stolen during the last century. I believe that the proper funding of First Nations language documentation and revitalization, as opposed to the limited funding currently provided for the task, would finally begin to heal the wounds of the residential school system. If you do the math, to undertake such a program in B.C. we are talking about $12 million – about 35 cents for every Canadian, or 12 cents per year for three years. I sure hope someone sees the light before it is too late. You were recently honoured with the prestigious John Webb Community Champions Award by the First Nations Technology Council, recognizing your leadership role in the development of FirstVoices over the past 15 years. The latest achievement was the introduction of the FirstVoices Chat Application. The Lieutenant-Governor and his wife attended and did the first ever public demonstration, texting each other in their Halq'méylem language. Upon its launch in the coming weeks, the application will contain custom keypads for every Roman-based Indigenous language in North America. This will enable First Nations people to text, yet another important step on the road to language revitalization. Can you tell us what’s next? In our early years, FirstVoices focused predominantly on language documentation. Over the past couple of years, we have recognized the importance of repurposing the digital language data for would-be language learners using up-todate Web and mobile applications. With the release of our latest chat and language tutor technologies, including those you have described, we are now committed to returning to our roots for a while, to focus on thorough language documentation in the remaining small window of opportunity. For more information, visit www.FirstVoices.com. Photo courtesy www.joannway.com.

www.seasidetimes.ca

april 2012

17


The Community Arts Council of the Saanich Peninsula

The Arts Council of the Saanich Peninsula (inc. 1991) at Tulista Park, Open 10-4 Wednesday - Sunday 9565 Fifth St (Lochside Dr) 250.656.7400 • www.cacsp.com

Enhancing Community Life Through Arts & Culture • We organize and sponsor art shows, craft fairs and festivals – including theatre, dance, music and literature.

• We encourage community appreciation and support for local visual and performing artists and writers.

• We administer an arts centre that not only showcases our local artists but also acts as an arts resource centre for the community.

• We provide grants to art groups and give funding to School District #63 to provide professional teachers in visual and performing arts.

Join the Arts Council – Support Community Arts & Culture Through a Collective Voice! We gratefully acknowledge the support of the Town of Sidney, District of North Saanich and the Municipality of Central Saanich.


Manna That Matters – yoUnlimited Conference Few would argue that we are more than just a mind, a body and a spirit but that we are in fact the sum of all these parts and, when aligned, we are truly whole. For the more than 75 women who attended the March 3rd yoUnlimited Conference at the Mary Winspear Centre, a holistic approach was the order of the day. For Carolyne Taylor, the founder of yoUnlimited, it is and always has been about women, connection and community, learning and loving more; about who you are, what you do and how you live. Her inspiring conferences focus on "giving" to participants as they move through the many presentations and interactive workshops designed to nourish them in every way. Kicking off the Spring Conference on Friday night, March 2nd was a Seaside Times Women in Business Mixer and Saturday opened with yoUnlimited’s new YOU Talks. Similar to the now famous TED Talks, three speakers focused on the new Maker Movement, the Power of Touch and Free Movement, and Finding and Following Your True Calling. You can find the videos presented by Carol Hyland, Theresa Gulliver and Caron Somers at younlimited.com.

to fuel their personal and professional journeys. You only have a limited number of Saturdays in this lifetime and, as so many of the women who spent their Saturday at the Conference stated: "I get inspiration from a community of women shining in their brilliance," "I get fed here, that doesn’t happen often enough," and "It helps me focus, reenergizes me and keeps me motivated." We invite you to consider these comments food for thought when deciding how to spend Saturday, October 6th – the yoUnlimited Fall Conference. www.younlimited.com. Pictured: Women in Business sponsors and moderators (back row, left to right) Betty-Ann Thomson, Sue Hodgson, Carolyne Taylor. Business panel (front row, l to r) Karen Halkett, Fandango Home & Garden; Geraldene Coates, Marmalade Tart Boutique; Mikiala Christie, Health Within TCM & Acupuncture. Photo courtesy Leona Fowler. Article authored by Linda Hunter, Linda Hunter & Associates, Writing & Event Planning Services Inc.

Program offerings on this day included entrepreneurs Anna Harvey of BOOST, Rachel Paish of Passion and Performance and Executive Coach Sharon Hall, among a host of women presenting on interesting and informative subjects such as Feeding the Body while Maintaining the Mind, Empowered Passion, Genuine Blogging, Creating a Resilient Mindset, Enter the Temple of You, Building Your Network, Looking at Life with Curiosity and Opportunity, GROOVE, and Dressing for Success. As with all yoUnlimited events, there was still more to see, touch and experience. Local businesses and organizations including Bridges for Women, the identified charitable organization for yoUnlimited, were on hand to exhibit and connect with participants. A new feature, the "Treat You" room, invited participants to try out massage and intuitive readings featuring Lindsay Rose, Theresa Gulliver, Shelly Silva, Nazli Rainflower and Carmen Spagnola. This comprehensive day devoted to Mind, Body, and Spirit rounded out with the Seaside Times Women in Business Panel, featuring local businesswomen who spoke to their successes, challenges, and what keeps them inspired and solvent as well as how their passion continues SEASIDE  TIMES

Spring Into Savings! Making Room for New Arrivals Means Great Sales!

The brands you’ve come to know; The products you’ve come to love

Bath & Body

victoria @ broadmead village 250-658-5578 sidney @ the pier hotel & spa 250-656-5506 brentwood bay @ trafalgar square 250-544-8211

www.seasidetimes.ca

www.knickerbockers.ca april 2012

19


co mm o n cents

children’s boutique

Uncommonly cute from head to toe!

Death and "Business" Taxes by Erik Solbakken

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What can and can't business owners deduct against their income? As our firm specializes in incorporated owner/ manager business, I get asked this question all year. Before they spend their dollars, successful business owners want to know what kind of rate of return they're going to make. The deductibility for tax purposes is a critical part of this equation and their business risk analysis. Sections 18(1) (a) & (h) of the Income Tax Act are good starting points when determining what is and isn't deductible. These are two subsections that actually make common sense. Section 18(1) “In computing the income of a taxpayer from a business … no deduction shall be made in respect of … (a) an outlay or expense except to the extent that it was made … for the purpose of … producing income from the business; and (h) … personal or living expenses of the taxpayer, other than travel expenses incurred by the taxpayer while away from home in the course of carrying on … business.

Proudly serving Sidney for 10 years! www.bosleys.com

It’s that time of year again, when people are focusing on their income taxes and I become the "popular" guy at the party to get free advice from. "Can I write off my dog?" or "My friend's neighbour's brother's girlfriend knows someone who says that I can deduct my new watch” (obviously for medical purposes as this person has Erik Solbakken difficulty with time). Then of course Chartered Accountant there's my personal favourite: "I heard that income taxes are against the Constitution and we don’t have to pay them at all!" To which I normally respond: "The only things for certain are death and taxes."

#4-2353 Bevan Avenue, Sidney, BC 250.656.6977

Translation: If you spend money to make money from your business, then it’s deductible. If you spend it for personal reasons, it’s not. This of course is a very simplistic approach that I have found works well when discussing the deductibility of expenses with business owners. Now, if I could only find a way to convince CRA that my seeing-time dog really needed that new watch, I’ll really be the life of the party! Erik Solbakken, BA, CA is a partner at Solbakken|Chartered Accountants (www.solbakken.ca).

www.seasidetimes.ca


Getting Kids Outdoors is a Joint Business Venture Since 1978 Brentwood Bay has been home to Boys & Girls Club’s Central Saanich Club. Right now attendance is up and the club is a busy place, offering an after-school drop-in program, boys and girls only programs, a youth leadership group, a culinary program at Bayside school, a new adventure program and a literacy program. Many of the youth who attend the club are from families that are not frequently active and cannot afford the club’s $25 annual membership fee and program fees. As a result of funding from The North Face and the GoodLife Kids Foundation, Boys & Girls Clubs created an adventure program to offer teens a chance to get outside and be active for free. It offers 13 youth the chance to go hiking, fishing, kayaking, rock climbing, camping and on boat trips. Despite the funding, the program also relies on support from local businesses, like Pacifica Paddle Sports which provided two kayak sessions at a significantly reduced rate. Peter Harris, who runs Pacifica, was motivated to support the program by his lifelong love of the water. “I grew up on the water, as did my kids and now their kids,” he says. “I am fully aware of the positive results of spending time in nature. It encourages kids to consider their circumstances and become more self-sufficient.” Self-sufficiency, or resiliency, is a vital internal asset youth need as they grow up. Through adventure, play and discovery, programs like this one help youth develop healthy lifestyles, a passion for the outdoors and a sense of social responsibility. The program doesn’t just give kids one-off opportunities (though with kayak adventures like this usually costing $70, it’s certainly a bonus), it also prompts them to take ownership of their

physical activity and instills a love for the outdoors that will keep them active. Boulders climbing gym also extended favourable rates and free equipment rentals to the program.

some free outdoor activities that also bring great benefits to kids. Monique, 13, surprised herself by making it to the summit on a recent hike up Bear Hill. “I didn’t think I could do it, but I made it!” she said, rocking a proud pose for this photo. “There’s a huge (nature) deficit going on and you don’t have to look very far to see the implications of it,” says Harris. “I want to do everything I can to counterbalance that, to give kids a chance to be on the water, or on the beach.”

During their visit to Boulders the youth earned their belay ticket so they can return in their free time. Of course, the Peninsula offers

We couldn’t have said it better ourselves. This program gets youth active outdoors, and it will pay dividends in the future for the local community. Submitted by Sarah Tarnopolsky, Boys & Girls Club Services of Greater Victoria.

It’s our hospital. Join r us fo EE R this F nt! eve

Give Receive Build Achieve

Thursday, April 5th 2:30 - 4pm

at the Mary Winspear Centre Learn from Ron Gurney and Ken Stevenson, two local professionals (retired), how you can GIVE to local charities and RECEIVE tax savings, as you help BUILD community and ACHIEVE greater wealth.

For information and to RSVP please call Donna Randall at 250-652-7531 www.seasidetimes.ca

april 2012

21


Seasonal Allergies? We Can Help! Receive $25 off your first appointment if you book before April 15th #216 - 9764 Fifth Street, Sidney (above Mark’s Work Wearhouse)

250-656-2067 • www.healthwithin.ca hanging baskets • perennials • annuals • herbs small trees • cut flower bouquets • pottery

Peninsula Singers Present The Long & Winding Road How to summarize a life in song? This is the challenge Glenda Korella has set for her Peninsula Singers in their spring concert series “The Long and Winding Road.” Appearing at the Mary Winspear Centre April 27th, 28th and 29th, the Singers, under the direction of Korella, will showcase songs that begin at the cradle and take the audience through life’s changes until we reach wisdom and maturity. “I was inspired by Paul McCartney’s song written in the early 70s,” says Korella. “I thought his song could be the inspiration for music that celebrates the journey each of us takes.” Virtuoso violinist Philip Manning will be the featured “Young Artist.” A music major at the University of Victoria, Manning was the 2010 Victoria Symphony Splash guest artist. Profits from these concerts will once again go to the Saanich Peninsula Hospital Foundation’s Music Therapy Program. Shows take place Friday, April 27th and Saturday April 28th at 7:30 p.m. and Sunday April 29th at 2 p.m. Tickets: $11 kids/$22 adults, available at Mary Winspear box office 250-656-0275. For more information, visit: www.PeninsulaSingers.ca. Submitted by Virginia Rouslin.

Open 7 days a week 9 am - 5:30 pm Just south of Butterfly Gardens

6536 West Saanich Road, Saanichton 250.896.8338 www.patiogardensvictoria.ca

Sales • Service • Installation … Over 30 years Experience

A Boarding Kennel that loves your pets as much as you do.

All Central Vacuums, Portables & Air Purifiers Free pick-up & Delivery

Dealer

Built-in Vacuum Specialists 778.426.3622 • 11-9843 Second Street, Sidney (just off Beacon)

Your Centre For All Your Spring Home Improvement Needs!

2356 Beacon Avenue, Sidney 250.656.2712 22

SEASIDE  TIMES

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

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

www.seasidetimes.ca


Mind, Body and Spirit! by Doreen Marion Gee Many women these days live frenetic lives, multi-tasking until it hurts. Sometimes they need a break from life with precious alone time to soothe and pamper their souls. Well, Panorama Recreation Centre is on the job! Taking care of ourselves and our health raises our self-esteem and our quality of life, so treat yourself with loving kindness at the Women’s Health & Wellness Night on Friday, May 18th from 7:30 until 10 p.m. at Panorama Recreation Centre. This party on the pool deck is a way for women to celebrate themselves and focus on their wellness and health.

classes will soothe and heal.

Cathy Watts, assistant aquatic coordinator at Panorama, is bursting with excitement. This is the second year for this “Personal Spa Day” and it will feature a variety of local businesses that cater to women’s health, wellness, beauty and well-being. Last year’s event hosted professionals from the Peninsula representing spas and specializing in massage, aesthetics, acupuncture, chiropractic therapy, hairstyling and the like. This year’s gala will match that and hopefully offer even more! Every woman will get mini appointments with her choice of practitioners. Enjoy delicious sandwiches as you attend lectures on different topics. This year, attendees get an extra special treat: they will be the first people to try the new underwater bicycles! Plus, yoga and strength aquafit

Cathy knows the benefits of this much deserved “me” time: “It is all about pampering ourselves. It is a time for women to treat themselves. We want to keep our minds healthy as well as our bodies. This event tries to do everything with the mind, body and spirit.”

This wonderful event also gives local female entrepreneurs a chance to showcase their talents for only $10 a table. According to Cathy, many of the businesses gained clients from participating last year. All the happy partiers get to try out many excellent products. (And leave with some free samples!) It is an excellent networking opportunity and a chance to check out local businesses and Panorama Recreation Centre. Newsflash: Many sumptuous door prizes turn up the fun metre.

Whether your business is big or small, please contact Cathy Watts if you wish to rent a table. Tickets for the public go on sale April 1st, 2012 for only $20 online or at reception. Here’s a secret: free tickets will be given away to Panorama’s Facebook visitors in April. Go ahead. Give yourself an evening to remember. You deserve it! For more information email Cathy Watts at cwatts@panoramarec.bc.ca, call 250-655-2183 or visit www.panoramarecreation.ca. www.seasidetimes.ca

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

Live Beautiful.

•Your Peninsula Interior Stylists•

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april 2012

23


foo t prints

Conversations from the Past – Robert McMicking by Valerie Green Have you ever wondered what it would be like to sit down and talk with some interesting characters from Greater Victoria’s past? If so, wonder no more. In a series of upcoming “interviews,” imaginary conversations will be conducted with some well-known (and some lesser-known) men and women from Greater Victoria’s colourful history. Although these conversations are merely creative figments of my imagination, they are all based on fact. Robert Bruce McMicking was one of 250 courageous Overlanders who travelled West in 1862 in search of gold and a better life. All were brave men and many, including McMicking, were destined to make a name for themselves in Victoria. Next time you use a regular land-line telephone, think of him – for he was the man who first brought that “new-fangled machine” known as the telephone to Victoria. (Interview conducted in 1900.)

A

TED N

TRUS RIA’S

G

OFIN

RO ME IN

McMicking: Just a sense of adventure I suppose. I came with my older brother, Thomas, who was 33, but I wasn’t quite 19 when we set off on April 21st, 1862. Our initial purpose was to find gold in the west, and we were part of the Queenston Party who left from Fort Garry.

VICTO

Ask us why there’s never been a better time to repair or replace your roof.

250-652-1818

I: Tell me a little about your family life back in Stamford, Ontario. M: I was the ninth of the 12 children born to our parents, William and Mary. My father died when I was 13 so I then went to work to help support the family. I joined the Montreal Telegraph Company and became fascinated by the newly-developed Morse Code.

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Interviewer: Mr. McMicking, what made you decide to come west in the 1860s?

I: A forerunner of what was one day to direct your life? M: Yes, indeed.

www.seasidetimes.ca


Computer Problems?

I: What was the trek West like? M: Very dangerous, and we lost many men along the way. The going was tough and we experienced extreme hardships. At Tete Jaune Cache we divided into two groups and I stayed with the larger group who built rafts to carry us down the Fraser River, while Thomas led the smaller party. I: And then you experienced even more horrors I believe? M: Yes, numerous men were swept to their deaths along the Fraser. We eventually reached Quesnel and tried to overcome our disappointment when we discovered that there was little gold to be found – but I refused to be downhearted. I worked as a cook, a labourer and as part of a road-building gang and eventually headed for New Westminster where I met up again with Thomas. I: How and when did you come to Victoria?

John Howey is Here to Help! • Locally owned and operated for over 5 years • Service costs up front • Technical help done at your home • Operating manuals created by request • Common sense language • No charge pickup and return

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M: Not until 1870, but many things had happened in-between, including working back in Quesnel and Yale for the Collins Overland Telegraph Company and becoming familiar with the world of wires and telegraph keys. I also married Miss Margaret Leighton in 1869. Then in 1870 I was transferred to the Western Union Office in Victoria. I soon began to design my own lightweight telegraph line insulator.

250-652-7989 seniorscs@gmail.com

I: Where did you live in Victoria? M: Our home was at the corner of Menzies and Belleville Streets and my office was about a mile away. We installed telephone machines at both locations in 1878 and could communicate between the two buildings. Consignments of telephone machines arrived from Portland, Oregon and were quickly rented out. On January 1st, 1880, the first official telephone line in Victoria linked Jeffree’s clothing store with Pendray’s soap factory, a distance of one third of a mile. That was the beginning of the Victoria and Esquimalt Telephone Company and by July we already had 40 paying subscribers.

Casual Grillhouse with a Friendly Bar

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An inventor extraordinaire, Robert McMicking achieved many more things before his death in 1915. Some of the descendants from his seven children still live in Greater Victoria today, including Saanich councillor Susan Brice, one of his great granddaughters. Valerie Green is an author and historian and can be reached at valgee@shaw.ca. www.seasidetimes.ca

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

250.658.8989 april 2012

25


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2432 Beacon Avenue, Sidney 250.656.7141 www.christinelaurentjewellers.ca

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The Denture Clinic Full & Partial Dentures Dentures Over Implants Relines & Repairs

#205, 2537 Beacon Avenue, Sidney

250.657.2224 • 1.866.678.2200

No Referral Necessary All Dental Plans Accepted New Patients Welcome Free Consultations

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

Attention Coffee Drinkers : Friends don’t let friends get Stale Coffee Sweater Tongue !

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

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

VICTORIA 250-383-7227

3937 Quadra Street (2 blocks south of McKenzie)

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I Drink

I    Need  A   Fresh Cup Coffee ! Your Taste Buds Can Tell … www.freshcup.ca

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SEASIDE  TIMES

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

With this ad in April

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smell the c offee

Our Coffee Cup Love Affair I looked back on the various coffee things I’ve written about over the past 30 months and realized an intimate, and very important coffee relationship, had been overlooked: our love affair with our beloved coffee cup or mug. Sorry dear! Not everyone is in love with their cup: in fact, there are 15 billion cups of coffee consumed in Canada each year and, based on my barista experience, most of the coffee we sold was in take-out cups. Now, most coffee houses use biodegradable cups, or variations on the theme, but there are an increasing number of people who have their favourite cup! As a former man on the coffee scene, I’ve seen coffee cups that range from dainty to disgusting, but one thing was for sure … every person had their reason to have "that" particular cup, and treasured it. In fact, I think most people treat their favourite coffee cup better than their significant others (kidding). It was humorous to watch this phenomenon, and over the years I saw an increase in travel mugs being used, which was encouraging. Personally, I have my favourite mug; I often have my picture taken with it and I swear that coffee tastes better in this kiln-fired ceramic mug from the Gulf Islands. Perhaps it’s the warmth of the handle in my hand,

harbour city kitchens f ine cabinetry & storage systems

by Steve Sheppard

or the earthy feel? Maybe it’s a physiological thing – I don’t really care … I just know there’s a difference. So, in the month of April, let’s all try and find a mug, cup, or thermos that we can make claim to as our own, which will reduce the number of takeout cups that are used. Most coffee houses have little incentives for bringing your own cup, like giving you more coffee, which is always a great thing. Some even have parking spots in the café for a person’s favourite mug! It’s not their fault that they sell coffee in take-out cups, it’s ours that we don’t bring our favourite mug. I say we officially name April "Public Display of Affection With My Coffee Mug Month" … Steve out.

2189 Keating X Rd 250-652-5200 www.harbourcitykitchens.com

www.seasidetimes.ca

april 2012

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Imagine slipping your boat into a fully-serviced marina just in time for a sushi lunch on the patio, followed by a luxurious seaweed wrap and massage in the spa. Later, the cedar and fir dining room, graced by an everchanging palette of works by local artists, forms the perfect backdrop for your seasonally inspired dinner.

Check in to your oceanfront suite and enjoy the sunset while sipping champagne on the private balcony. Life doesn’t get much better, and the best thing is you don’t even have to travel far: this jewel is right here in Brentwood Bay.

To Everything There is a Season – Brentwood Bay Resort by Linda M. Langwith

250- 479- 6612 Tuesday: Pasta $11.95 Wine from $4.25/glass

The Latch

the latch inn & restaurant • sidney

Wednesday: Burger & Beer $13.95

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

Sunday: Prime Rib $18.95 Fri, Sat, Sunday:

Live Music!

Discover a British Columbia Heritage Home

most spectacular seaside setting…Enjoy our Chef’s seasonally inspired menu with

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• Ask about our special packages SEAFOOD & SUSH1 AT B R E N T W O O D B AY R E S O RT

849 VERdIER AVE 250.544.2079 WWW.BREntWoodBAyRESoRt.Com

Open Tues - Sun 11:30am - late night 5285 West Saanich Rd, Victoria

Friend us on Facebook!

www.saanichroadhouse.com

Brentwood Bay Resort and Spa wears its many accolades well. Voted one of the best romantic spots by readers of the Times Colonist, this desirable destination was recently awarded Trip Advisor’s Travellers’ Choice Award for the top 25 Hotels and Spas in Canada. Nestled in the forested hillside, the oceanfront getaway celebrates the natural West Coast world of sea and mountain, embracing sustainability, environmental best practices and commitment to community. 28

SEASIDE  TIMES

2328 Harbour Rd, Sidney

250.656.4015 info@latchinn.ca www.latchinn.ca

The guiding force behind Brentwood Bay Resort and Spa’s success is Dan Behune, owner and managing director. “It’s the people in the building who make the experience for our guests,” enthused Dan over coffee in the lounge. This passion for excellence begins in the kitchen, where the Head Chef Jevon Thow, one of only 12 Certified Chefs de Cuisine in B.C., www.seasidetimes.ca


There are plenty of great choices for guests, with Victoria’s freshest seafood and sushi in the Seagrille Restaurant and the adjoining Sushi and Sake Bar creating a delicious synergy between West Coast and Japanese cuisine. Locals love to hang out in the more casual Brentwood Pub overlooking the resort’s marina, while the sunny outdoor patios are a huge draw for regulars and visitors alike, and, according to Dan, are the perfect spot for drinks and appys while watching the sun set across the inlet. Prepare to be completely pampered in the resort’s award-winning oceanfront spa. Themed body treatments using a variety of luxury products, including organic seaweed sourced from Sooke, as well as unique vinotherapy with ingredients from local wineries, will leave you feeling refreshed, rejuvenated and ready for a dip in the heated outdoor pool. Locals can even get 25% discounts with an annual spa membership.

www.spitfiregrill.ca

Zanzibar Taste What the Peninsula Has to Offer

Breakfast O Lunch O Dinner O Espresso O

Open

Tues~Saturday 730 - 4 Thurs, Fri, Sat 530 - 830 GLOBAL FLAVOURS O LOCAL TASTES

202-9800 McDonald Pk Rd North Saanich 250.665.7353

www.rcgrillhouse.com

Happy Easter from the Spitfire Grill!

Easter Saturday & Sunday Special:

Traditional Turkey Dinner $18

Holiday Hours: Good Friday 9-8 Saturday 8-9 • Sunday 9-8

Dinner Reservations Recommended

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

250-655-0122 9681 Willingdon Rd, Sidney

Add a little adventure to your day with a visit to the resort’s Eco-Adventure centre, located dockside. The PADI dive boat will whisk you to a nearby protected site to view what Dan describes as incredibly rare glass sponges found only in a few places in the world. Kayaks are available for rent, while a variety of eco tours and charters, led by professional biologists, provide memorable experiences of the natural surroundings and marine life in the unique ecosystem of Brentwood Bay. Be tempted to stay the night for a little R&R: the OceanSuites feature sumptuous king beds and the latest in entertainment options, with furnishings from the Cowichan Valley’s own Gelinas-Carr custom furniture makers, a serendipitous find of Dan’s. Well, time for my Island Seaweed Scrub session with the Wild Sea Kelp Body Lotion application! april 2012

29

Check out These Great Peninsula Restaurants!

oversees an outstanding teaching kitchen. Students considering a culinary career have the opportunity to discover and develop their passion for creating amazing food right here in Brentwood Bay.


© 2011 Chamilia, LLC. All rights reserved.

© 2011 Chamilia, LLC. All rights reserved.

Available at

6666 West Saanich Rd, Brentwood Bay (beside Butterfly Gardens)

Home and Garden 30

SEASIDE  TIMES

778-426-4436 • doyleandbond.ca www.seasidetimes.ca


grey matters

Fancy That? by Trysh Ashby-Rolls “In the spring a young man’s fancy lightly turns to thoughts of love.” Just a moment; what about an older man’s fancy? An older woman’s fancy? Despite “gains made in gender equality,” older women seem not to count in matters of the heart. Do her thoughts in spring lightly turn to love? While she’s busy looking after her family she embodies love. Romantic love hardly comes into the picture once we’re of a certain age. Where are we elders likely to find that youthful love poets write about? Do we dismiss the thought as something suited only to youngsters? Do we even ponder love and sex and the whole nine yards and wish … ? If a man admits to such musings aloud, especially sexual, he’s liable to be called a “dirty old man.” Maybe older females are unsung “dirty old women?”

eating or dreaming. All very fine, you say. I’m 85 – or 70 or 93 – and on my own. I used to love music and dancing. Now, I can’t hear and who’d be my dance partner? My walker? Heck, why not? Give it a twirl. Clarissa Pinkola Estés published Women Who Run with the Wolves in 1992. The book is about the myths and stories of the wild woman archetype. Any wild woman, or man who dares run with her, will tell you there’s a certain “sensual/sexual enchantment” that makes us feel so darn good when we hear a piece of music on the radio or birdsong, see flowers or feel a soft breeze on the face. We can’t help it, we smile inside and out. Twinkle with mischief, smile at a passerby of the opposite sex, send flowers anonymously to someone you love. Go on, I dare you!

Describing older women, author Clarissa Pinkola Estés writes: “There is an aspect of women’s sexuality that in ancient times was called the sacred obscene, not in the way we use the word today, but meaning sexually wise in a witty sort of way.” The older woman is hot. “Not a heat as in ‘Let’s have sex, baby baby.’ But like a fire underground that burns high, then low, in cycles … .” This heat is “not a state of sexual arousal but a state of intense sensory awareness that includes, but is not limited to, her sexuality… .” She is “a being who lives in the wild underground of women’s natures … . This being is inquiring, relational, bounding with energy sometimes, quiescent at other times. It is responsive to the senses: music, movement, food, drink, peace, quiet, beauty, darkness.”

Younger people may think they’ve cornered the market on flirting, sensuality and sexuality. Surely, they say, our grandmas didn’t “do it.” Then, realizing not one of us is found under a gooseberry bush, they concede: “Well, maybe a couple of times.” We reach some arbitrary age, do we, and that’s it? Seniors simply stop feeling sexy or thinking about sex? God forbid that we should celebrate our sexuality.

You may have to go digging – perhaps literally in the soft spring earth or metaphorically through art or writing,

So if your fancy lightly turns to thoughts of love, go ahead, be wild, have fun.

What a crock! Human beings are sexual beings. Sexuality changes as we age. By 70 most of us no longer act like adolescents – the mind may rock ‘n roll; the body just can’t follow. Yet we still need touch and hugs and many of us enjoy a roll in the hay now and then or on a regular basis.

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april 2012

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Every Wednesday Evening is Pasta Night

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

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


Sidney Sister Cities Association: Creating International Friendships At the top of our Peninsula, Sidney boasts a vibrant cultural scene: it's a "book town," there are several fine art galleries, entertaining live theatre and musical events … even street and seafront sculptures that are among the tourists' favourites. One of our newest attractions on the creative scene is Sidney's own 2012 Calendar, which was a sellout, and there's a promise of more to come as the 2013 edition is at kickoff stage. The people responsible for its development are the volunteers of the Sidney Sister Cities Association (SSCA), an affiliate of the Town of Sidney. The goal of the SSCA is fostering international relationships and understanding, a worldwide concept that has been alive for more than half a century. Sidney's sisters cities are Cairns, in Queensland, Australia; Niimi, in Okayama, Japan; and – almost a next-door neighbour – Anacortes, Washington in the United States. Representatives travel to and from all four centres, returning with glowing reports of the camaraderie and awareness their visits create. It's hands across worldwide borders, introducing each other to their cultural uniqueness, education programs and town council exchanges. Student exchanges are included. For example, several young people from Niimi, with their translator, will be guests of the SSCA members for one week this year. The students will be welcomed by our local high schools. They will take English lessons and tour cultural sites and museums. A similar exchange featuring local artists is being planned now between Sidney and Cairns. Funds raised by SSCA, a non-profit group that receives strong support from the Town of Sidney, are used to promote the programs and to keep the sister city relationships happening. That's where the Sidneyby-the-Sea Calendar comes in: it's one of the fundraising activities of the friendly, volunteer members.

Recently elected president of SSCA, Bob McLure, said: "We worked hard on our first calendar in cooperation with the Town of Sidney, and were delighted with how enthusiastically it was received." The SSCA members meet regularly to plan events, and enjoy their own social get-togethers. "Our friendly group always welcomes new members who'd like to be part of unique international programs," said McLure. "We're active in town events, too, like the Santa Claus and Canada Day parades, even with our own float! And you might want to be included in a trip to one of our very special sister cities." To contact SSCA, call Bob McLure at 250-654-0488 or contact via email at mcLure@shaw.ca. Submitted by Brenda Whittingham, SSCA member.

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Another Calypso Summer – More Cruising Adventures Part II by Sharlene Coss

Continued from the Seaside Times March issue. So there we were: cruising in France as if we really knew what we were doing! Leaving Paris was a little scary. The commercial barge traffic on the Seine is quite heavy, making the waters very choppy, so little Calypso tends to get pushed around. We ploughed ahead through the industrialized Seine until we got to the Forest of Fontainbleau where we slowed down to enjoy the beautiful countryside. Impressive 34

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stately homes dotted the riverbank alongside fields of glorious yellow sunflowers begging to be photographed. Leaving the Seine, we joined the River Yonne and found ourselves in the Burgundy area of France. Small vintners set up tables beside the moorings where we were invited to enjoy outdoor wine tasting and buying! What better way to get the wine for that night’s supper? Not only is it bucolic countryside, but our favourite towns are found along the

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The five-year plan is going well. The boat is now in mid-France and we are only a few months cruising from our ultimate goal – the Canal du Midi. After three summers, we are almost seasoned boaters and feeling much more comfortable on the water. But check in with us via our blog as we make our way down the Rhone River! Just looking at pictures of those huge locks has my stomach churning. New adventures await in 2012! Until next year! Sharlene Coss (canalcruisingwiththecosses.blogspot.com).

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The little city of Auxerre was by and far our favourite moorage, with the beautiful city spread out before us on the opposite bank. Whether under the glorious sun or the night sky, it is seriously, unbelievably stunning! We stayed there for a week – we couldn’t pull ourselves away. The ancient half-timbered houses (we call them Elizabethan but for obvious reasons that’s not what the French call them!) were seriously gorgeous as were the narrow cobblestone lanes, three wonderful churches/abbeys and many gourmet restaurants. Calypso is moored for the winter close by and we anticipate another visit to Auxerre in May.

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At the junction of the Yonne and the Canal de Bourgogne is a moorage with good facilities – laundry, showers, shopping and restaurants. It also has a very scary lock that you have to navigate to get to the mooring. Not only is it a deep lock, but the water enters it very quickly under great pressure. Crew had a frightening experience just trying to hang on so the boat’s line didn’t come off the bollard. Seriously scary. Further downriver, a lady (and I use the term loosely) lockkeeper "taught" me how to secure the rope so it was easier to hold the boat against the rushing water. Unfortunately, I was not so much taught as screamed at! My French is minimal at the best of times, but rudely screaming in French is like yelling at a deaf person – it’s not helpful! A fellow boater translated and I got the hang of it. It worked very well as long as we were going upstream but, as I soon found out, not so much going downstream. You can easily get the boat hung up – literally – and when you do let go, the rapid descent causes Calypso to slap the water with an almighty thunderous clap. Phew; survived again!

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Yonne. Moret sur Loing, the home of the painter Sisely, was sheer joy: a gorgeous ancient walled town with a stunning old mill which was the subject of many of his paintings. Joigny was not only an excellent moorage (with a McDonald’s internet close by!) but a delightful little town built on the opposite bank and climbing up quite a steep hillside. We were able to enjoy their annual summer music festival, all while sitting and drinking a cold, quenching glass of rosé in one of the town squares.

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A Saanichton Institution Spelt’s has been providing high quality service since 1971. The business has evolved over the past 41 years and for the last 23 years Ron and brother Dave Spelt have been operating the modern Shell gas station and convenience store. In 1996 Ron added a coffee shop and sister Angelee soon joined her brothers to manage it, offering the best fresh donut selection in town and delicious Level Ground coffee roasted right in Saanichton! She and her staff (with some second and third generation Spelts) also serve muffins, great soups, sandwiches and more! The modern gas pumps and four pay points inside help Spelt’s staff to service their customers fast and efficiently so they can focus on providing the “Fast, Fresh and Friendly” cornerstones for their business. Back in 1971, when a car drove through Saanichton, Ron would stop and wave because he usually knew who it was. Nowadays, there are a lot more people in the area but Spelt’s is a still a great place where you can meet friends day and night.

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weatherwit

April Weather Forecast by Steve Sakiyama “I know it is wet and the sun is not sunny, but we can have lots of good fun that is funny.” (Dr. Seuss) By this time of year the grey clouds and rain make me feel like I am stuck in the gooey Oobleck. On the other hand, grey clouds and rain are a mysterious and soothing presence, so I embrace them as part of our wonderful life here on the coast. My profound angst over this led me to express my inner conflict in a deeply contemplative poem, inspired by Dr. Seuss’ Green Eggs and Ham. Do you like grey clouds and rain? I do not like them, Steve I am. Would you like them here or there? I would not like them here or there, I would not like them anywhere.

Will grey clouds and rain be the story for April? Longrange models show a greater chance of cooler-than-normal temperatures, perhaps due to a fading La Nina. There is also a slight bias toward wetter conditions, but not enough for the Cat in the Hat to come back. Even if April is wetter and cooler, my sentimental forecast for Easter Sunday is a brilliant sunrise illuminating a beautiful picture of spring in its fullness with lush green landscapes, foaming blue seas and wondrous golden skies dotted with … grey clouds and rain. For I do, I do like them, Steve I am. ~ Weatherwit

I would not like them in the day, I would not like them anyway. I would not like them in the park, I would not like them in the dark. I do not like grey clouds and rain, I do not like them, Steve I am.

Questions about the weather? Send them to weatherwit@gmail.com or post a comment of my blog at weatherwit.wordpress.com.

FORECAST: Sunny & Warm … Wish You Were Here!

You do not like them so you say. Try them! Try them! And you may. Try them and you may I say. OK if you let me be, I will try them, you will see. Outside I go in grey clouds and rain, I ignored them in my brain.

Say … I do like them! I do I do. I will like them in the park, I will like them in the dark I will like them here and there, I will like them anywhere I do like grey clouds and rain, I do like them, Steve I am.

Yes I like them. Although ordinary and dreary, they are a wonder of nature. Clouds are made up of tiny water droplets suspended in air. These tiny droplets collide with each other and merge (“coalesce”) to form larger droplets, and as this process repeats itself the droplets grow to the point where they become large enough to fall. If the cloud has ice crystals, they can grow into snowflakes as water molecules migrate from the droplets to the crystals. If the cloud is warm enough, these snowflakes can melt into rain drops. In the words of Dr. Seuss, this makes me “Think and wonder, wonder and think.”

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you ng readers book review

Are You a Young Reader That Loves to Curl Up With a Good Book?

Do You Want to be Published?

Then Seaside Times is Looking For YOU! We have launched our “Young Readers Book Review & Contest!” Each month Seaside Times will have a selection of titles from Tanner’s Books to choose from If you’d like to write a review and have it published, please email editor@seasidetimes.ca Enter to win! Of the 10 new releases listed in the review each month, tell us your favourite and why on our Facebook page (www.facebook.com/SeasideTimes) and you could be the lucky winner of that book! 38

SEASIDE  TIMES

Blood Red Road, by Moira Young

Reviewed by Amanda Punch, 14 Born in midwinter in the wastelands of “Silverlake,” Saba grew up following in the footsteps of her twin brother, Lugh. “He’s my light. I’m his shadow,” Saba states simply in the beginning of the novel, though she doesn’t envy Lugh; she admires him. Yet one day four cloaked horseman appear and violently capture Lugh, drastically changing Saba’s life. Fueled by the fierce determination and “red hot” inside her, Saba takes on the dangerous endeavor of saving her brother. On her life-changing journey, Saba uncovers the fighter and survivor within herself, and strengthens her relationship with her sister, Emmi, who she once resented. Despite Saba’s stubbornness to find her brother alone, she gains several friends, most of whom are fighters and thieves, such as a group of female warriors called the Free Hawks. Yet the most influential person she meets is Jack: someone that could perhaps be the love of her life. Alongside her friends, Saba’s mission of saving her brother turns into one that could possibly change her world. Blood Red Road, named appropriately, is an exciting and mighty adventurous book, most likely written for kids ages 13 and up. With eerie abandoned towns and deadly creatures, the setting is truly a dystopia. Some say this novel is better than The Hunger Games, by Suzanne Collins, though I personally disagree. However, I do believe that this is a captivating story, filled with action-packed scenes of survival, similar to Suzanne’s series. This easy-to-read-book was told through Saba’s perspective, in her country-like and unsophisticated narrative voice. Hunger Games fans, or anyone entertained by thrilling and adventurous fictional stories, will read this book eagerly, hoping for a sequel. New Releases – Available at The Children's Bookshop Wonderstruck, Brian Selznick Big Nate Goes for Broke, Lincoln Peirce Clementine and the Family Meeting, Sara Pennypacker Kane Chronicles Survival Guide, Rick Riordan Bad Kitty Meets the Baby, Nick Bruel Picture a Tree, Barbara Reid World of the Hunger Games, Suzanne Collins Henderson Boys # 5: Prisoner, Robert Muchamore Pete the Cat: Rocking in My School Shoes, Eric Litwin Polar Bear, Polar Bear What Do You Hear? Bill Martin

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Pacific Brant Carving and Art Show Sidney's Mary Winspear Centre will host one of the premier art events of the year April 14th and 15th. Vancouver Island’s top wildlife carvers, painters, sculptors and photographers will have their work on display and for sale at the Pacific Brant Carving and Art Show. The main focus of the show will be the wildlife woodcarving competition. Woodcarvers from across the Pacific Northwest will be competing in four different skill levels, from novice to expert, for ribbons and cash awards. The Pacific Brant Carving and Art Show is one of the top 10 wildlife woodcarving shows in North America, and has been featured in the national publication Wildfowl Carving and Collecting for the past four years.

demos and a Saturday night "Meet and Greet" the artists with refreshments available and a live auction of art. Sunday’s events will feature a live auction of "cocktail" class carvings, and 2010 World Champion bird carver Cam Merkle from Saskatchewan will demonstrate the painting process

on a woodcarving of a Steller’s jay. Show hours are Saturday, April 14th from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. and Saturday from 7 to 9:30 p.m. The show will be open on Sunday from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Article submitted by Dennis Drechsler. For more info visit www.thebrant.ca.

This will be the 21st year for the show, which has its roots in the Brant Wildlife Festival held each year in Parksville-Qualicum.

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Works of painters Sue Coleman, Morgan Warren, Mark Hobson, Linda Heslop, Yvette Lantz and Cim MacDonald will be featured, and photographers Mike Yip, Stuart Clark, Alan Cornall and Neil Fatin will be on hand. The bronze work of Craig Benson and Paul Harder and nature-inspired jewelry by Stuart Duncan of Wren Silverworks will also be displayed.

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2012

39


Sidney Pier Spa • Seaside Times April 2012 Ad • Size: 7.75” (w) x 4.925” (h) • Final • March 19/12

Make spring cleaning fun this year! Help the Victoria Women in Need Community Cooperative by bringing in your gently used clothing to Haven Spa and in return for your generosity, you will receive 20% off of any retail purchase! Spring cleaning never sounded so great!

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

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SEASIDE  TIMES

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The Real Deal: Pure Freshness at The Lakes by Doreen Marion Gee You don’t have to be a food aficionado to know what tastes good and what doesn’t! All secrets are revealed in that first mouthful. Anybody can tell butter from margarine and fresh from pre-cooked. It is that "real deal" that defines a beautiful eating experience, and Patrick Turner’s passion for food is based on that assumption. As the Food and Beverage Manager at Lakes Grillhouse n’ Bar, his mission is to provide food and service that top the charts. While chatting with Patrick, it became clear that every meal at his restaurant is the end product of hard work, genuine ingredients, fresh in-house cooking and the desire to serve excellent food. My very first happy munch of an "eggs benny" was at Lakes. Lord help me! Rarely have I tasted such an absolutely scrumptious meal. It was as if the cook had infused a dollop of heaven into his creamy, tangy hollandaise sauce. The ingredients were obviously and delightfully real and fresh and made from scratch. (No powders here, folks.) Patrick is warm and welcoming as we shoot the breeze in the comfortable, shiny restaurant. He wants people to know that they are tucked away within the Howard Johnson Motel, just up from the Commonwealth Pool. When it comes to the food, he won’t settle for anything less than the freshest and the purest: "Everything is done in-house. Our food is the highest quality possible." They won’t sacrifice standards to cut costs. Vegetables and fruits are top quality and all soups and sauces are freshly made. When it comes to beef, only "Triple A Canadian Prime" will do – the highest rating of all

A major part of Lakes' success and popularity is a willingness to accommodate variety to fit new trends and tastes. It's very unique to offer international dishes in a standard family restaurant, but Patrick wants his customers to savour international comfort foods like butter chicken, prepared to perfection by his skilled chefs. Patrick values his clientele: "We try to do a little bit of everything for everybody!" So, why should you bother coming out to "the boonies to eat?" Because food at Lakes Grillhouse n’ Bar is the real thing: "We make everything! Almost nothing is shipped in already prepared, because you lose something with that." They will take the time to cook that lamb shank for four hours until it oozes juice and flavour. Heck, they even cook their burgers from scratch. Patrick is beaming: "You can’t replace that." And how many restaurants take six years to find the perfect pork dish to please its customers? Patrick feels that their success is largely due to being a "server-oriented" restaurant, not chef-driven. The kitchen may change a procedure if they find a better way of doing it based on server feedback about customer concerns. The customer’s voice is valued at "The Lakes." Also, they are one of a very few sit-down establishments that serve breakfast, lunch and dinner, every day of the week and 365 days a year. When it comes to separating the pure and fresh from the rest, here is Patrick’s mantra: "I truly believe that you can taste it!" That is why he gets raves for their hollandaise sauce. It is the real deal, right down to that extra pinch of cayenne thrown in with love. Contact www.hojovictoria.ca. Photo courtesy WordRidden.

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Reflections With Rosmaria by Ayla Lundy

photo courtesy Geoff Smith

R

osmaria Behncke is an artist. She is also 91 years old, a devout Christian, and a testament to just how strong the human spirit can be. After just a few moments in her presence, one can pick up on her sharp eye for color and her major artistic flare. Rosmaria's clothes, her house and every last knickknack in it screams eccentricity. The house is instantly appealing to the senses, most notably the open spaces of the bright rooms, vibrant mismatched color throughout and oversized windows. Her house is one of her greatest treasures, Rosmaria tells me. With the help of a contractor familiar with fine European architecture, she designed the house from memory. The design is an exact replica of her 42

SEASIDE  TIMES

grandfather’s house in Germany where she was submersed in joy and love during her childhood. Rosmaria's own paintings, sketches and mosaic pieces can be found at every turn, and any remaining space is filled with invaluable treasures collected over many continents and many years. An unplanned studio, her house is beautiful, vibrant, happy and above all meaningful. All colours are welcome there, from the deepest reds to the palest of yellows. The home evokes a kind of calm, a childlike enchantment. Lighting the occasional cigarette, Rosmaria spoke with me at her living room table for many hours. The first thing that struck me was how fortunate I felt at

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being able to speak with someone who has survived things I've only read about. She has lived through what my generation can't even begin to comprehend.

Tell the world

YOUR STORY

To understand who Rosmaria Behncke is, we must go back to the beginning, almost a century ago. Born December 4th, 1920 in Schleswig, Germany, she survived the largest atrocity mankind had ever seen, that of World War II. Sadly, on the last day of the war she lost her beloved stepfather to an allied bombing, which strengthened her desire to leave a war-ravaged Germany. She refers to the time after the war as the "hunger years." Germany was divided and occupied, and many Germans, including Rosmaria, carried the intense hunger of living on a few pieces of bread a day. It was after two years of this that she decided she needed to act to survive. That act was the incredibly dangerous one of sneaking across the border into Austria. At one point during her crossing, French soldiers spotted but were unable to catch up to her. Once in Austria, Rosmaria lived with her uncle, a well-known sculptor. She spent the next year eating and learning to ski as a means to get her physical strength back. After her health was restored she returned briefly to Germany, only to set off on a boat to Africa. Her travels also took her to Italy, Asia, the United States, and finally to Salt Spring Island, B.C.

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Rosmaria’s life would present her with more challenges over the years. It would be logical that surviving such atrocities would reflect in darkness and shadow, but the opposite came to be. A beautiful paradox, Rosmaria is small yet strong, unassuming yet powerful, and her art is revealing yet whimsical. The only appropriate way to describe this endlessly fascinating woman is master survivor and master artist.

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complete with stunning floral complements. Take in one of the many demonstrations happening daily, then head across the hall to the gift shop where you’ll find smaller handmade gift items and paintings for sale. Entrance to the show is only $4 for both days. Hours are 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. Saturday, and 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. Sunday. Before you leave, cast your vote for your favourite work of art. Your ballot will be eligible for door prizes, including original artworks.

SPAC Art Show & Sale SPAC’s fine artists and artisans are getting ready to showcase their works of art! They are eager to share this bounty at the 59th annual Saanich Peninsula Arts & Crafts Society Art Show and Sale, April 28th and 29th at the Mary Winspear Centre in Sidney. The artists work in a wide variety of mediums, from painting to sculpture and jewelry to fibre art and beyond. Bodine Hall will be transformed into a giant gallery,

This year we are delighted to have an internationallyknown guest artist, Norman Yates RCA. His works have been exhibited in Canada, Germany, France, Japan and the U.S. His pieces are included in many public and private collections including the National Gallery of Canada, the Canada Council Art Bank and the Alberta Foundation of the Arts. He has recently completed works for the Victoria Conference Centre, Royal Theatre and has a new show in Banff at the Whyte Museum from April 7th to June 2nd, 2012. For a sneak preview of the show, sign up to be a patron. Support the artists by pledging $125, $100 of which will be put towards your purchase of art. Spend Friday evening at a private reception where you can meet the artists. Spring and the SPAC art show are synonymous. Please join us! Submitted by Melanie Barnes, Saanich Peninsula Arts & Crafts Society. Painting at left by guest artist Norman Yates, painting below by member artist Donna Jean.

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Pacific Paint Centres Keating X Road, Saanichton 250.652.4274 Hillside Avenue, Victoria 250.381.5254 Millstream Road, Langford 250.391.4770 ©2010 Benjamin Moore Co., Limited. Benjamin Moore and the triangle “M” symbol are registered trademarks, and Colour Selection Simplified is a trademark of Benjamin Moore & Co., Limited.

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Central Saanich Lawn Bowling Open House AmAzing itinerAries!

On April 15th from 1:30 to 4 p.m., come and try your hand at this family sport: free admission, no age limit and yes, we provide the bowls! Come along and enjoy a fun time and share in some refreshments after the game.

S e p t e m b e r 26 t h , 2012 VancouVer - Sydney, auStralia

58-day TransPacific Sailing and Circumnavigation of Australia

This lawn bowling club is situated adjacent to Saanichton's Centennial Park, across the road from the new tennis courts, and there's lots of free parking.

From $7,607** CDN per person (cruise & ALL taxes) Includes $50 pp shipboard credit and complimentary Pinnacle Grill Dinner e p t * government r d fees additional c t - $183.27 t h pp * ** all pricing based on a double r c e occupancy, l o n a inside stateroom e n i c eand availability **

S

Not only does the club offer lawn bowling events, but during the off-season there are plenty of other opportunities for socializing, such as carpet bowling, whist, bridge, monthly lunches and special events.

23 b

- o

17 - V

, 2012

24-day Mediterranean Cruise From $3,254** CDN per person (cruise & ALL taxes)

When watching a game of lawn bowls, one may observe a mixed age group, all participating in a friendly game with no gender or age discrimination. The Club also offers guidance and instruction to Stelly’s students. One of our young members from Stelly’s school went on to reach the national level in lawn bowling, and we also have a 97-year-old member who is quite a challenge to play against! This can truly be a family game.

** all pricing based on double occupancy, interior stateroom **

Ear n

miles on every cruise! BC Reg No. 2550-6

For those who have never tried the game, it might appear rather dull or just too easy, i.e., to roll a bowl from one end of the green to the other end. However, as one becomes more experienced, strategy and skill come into play. There is always the opportunity to compete in friendly competitions and tournaments with other local clubs, and even to visit up-Island to share in friendly games.

Sidney – 250.656.5441 sidney@cruiseshipcenters.com Mt. Doug – 250.477.4877 mtdoug@cruiseshipcenters.com

Orr’s Family Butchers

I extend this invitation to one and all to come out to the Central Saanich Lawn Bowling Club!

Established 1979

Submitted by Marianne Brackenridge.

“We

are the source for the very best and most trusted mobility products in the market place today

Quality Scottish Butchers Wide Variety of British Specialty Foods Meat Pies & Pastries New Selection of Ready-Made Meals Visit our new café in the Sidney shop for a traditional Scottish breakfast or lunch!

Sidney: #104 - 2506 Beacon Ave 778-426-1934 Brentwood Bay: Trafalgar Square 250-652-3751 Victoria: 4011 Quadra Street 250-590-8067

(Trade-Ins Welcome)

Sidney: Open Tuesday - Friday 9:30 - 5:30 Open Saturday & Sunday 9 - 4

Quadra & Brentwood: Open Tues - Fri 9:30 - 5:30 Open Saturdays 9 - 4

Victoria: 2005 Cook St - Sidney: 2378 Beacon Ave 250-383-7383 - www.canadascooters.net

www.orrsbutchers.com

Call Today for a frEE SCooTEr Info PaCkagE 250-383-7383 www.seasidetimes.ca

april 2012

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s k r o w b e W b m o c y ign e s e n o D b H e W l a c Lo

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You talk, we listen. When you communicate we understand. That's how we build lasting relationships.

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Stay in touch while on the go with the Times Colonist.

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Pure Performance. Sweet Results! Absolute quality & genuine service from a team of new media experts. Call us:

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250-655-9202 HoneycombWeb.com

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seaside news

No Ordinary Grass Imagine a grass that doesn’t need to be mowed, shouldn’t be fertilized and indirectly puts salmon into the mouths of endangered southern resident killer whales. Now imagine this grass isn’t as fictional as it sounds, but grows right here in the near-shore sandy shallows of the Salish Sea. This grass – called eelgrass – is in danger of disappearing due to human impact. Why should we concern ourselves with vanishing eelgrass? Eelgrass meadows are an important and critical habitat for a variety of marine organisms. More than 80 species of fish, 75 species of birds and hundreds of species of invertebrates can be found living or feeding among blades of eelgrass. Many of these species are important to coastal food webs and commercial fisheries; an estimated 80% of commercial fish and shellfish species depend on eelgrass for at least part of their lifecycle. These include salmon, herring and Dungeness crab. Just as eelgrass provides critical habitat for juvenile salmon, adult salmon are a critical food source for Southern resident killer whales. The loss of eelgrass may facilitate the loss of these whales.

by Tina Kelly

locations, to survey and restore eelgrass habitats as well as educate the public on eelgrass conservation. The Shaw Ocean Discovery Centre incorporates eelgrass conservation into many of its school programs.

Eelgrass, zostera marina, though called a grass, is actually a flowering plant. Like terrestrial plants, sunlight is required for photosynthesis. Anything that blocks out the sun affects its growth. Waterfront residents are encouraged to share boat docks – reducing the amount of light blocking structures. Residents should also use nature-friendly products for cleaning, fertilizing and pest/weed control. These few changes can help eelgrass flourish and maintain its crucial role in food webs, and endangered whales can continue to dine.

Survival of eelgrass can be improved with small modifications to residential and recreational activities. Walking around eelgrass – not through it – and leaving eelgrass on the beach are two suggestions for beachcombers. Decomposing vegetation becomes food for invertebrates.

To learn more about food webs and “who eats who” in the Salish Sea visit the Shaw Ocean Discovery Centre during “Bite Me” on now until June 17th. Tina Kelly is an Ocean Advocate at the Shaw Ocean Discovery Centre. Photos courtesy of, clockwise from top right: Bruce Obee, Wendy Carey, Margaret Butschler/Vancouver Aquarium, Wendy Carey.

Boaters and kayakers should use a mooring buoy instead of anchoring in eelgrass, avoid dragging a dinghy or kayak through eelgrass and raise the propeller in shallow eelgrass habitat.

Sidney-by-the-Sea: Sidney-by-the-Sea: Closest Best WesternClosest Best Western to Butchart Gardens to Butchart Gardens W. SAANICH RD

Long-tErm WIntEr rAtEs AvAILABLE! • Licensed Family The Federal Fisheries Act refers to Ferries, • •Licensed • 5 minutes from BC Family Restaurant restaurant on site •on5 minutes from BC Ferries, State Ferries & site the “prohibition of Washington harmful alteration, Victoria Int’l. Airport Washington state Ferries • 7 Blocks from Shaw Ocean • 7 blocks from the shaw ocean disruption or destruction of fish habitat.” 17 and victoria Int’l. Airport 17A • Easy 25 minute drive to Discovery Centre Discovery Centre Penalties for violating this Act are steep: BW Emerald downtown Victoria Easy 25-minute to • •Pet Friendly - Feedrive - Some Isle Motor • Pet Friendly – fee – Inn fines of up to $1 million, up toSauna six months • Whirlpool, and restrictions downtownapply victoria some restrictions apply in prison, or a combination of both, Fitness Equipment • Whirlpool, sauna and Fitness Equipment but government resources are in short Best Western Emerald Isle Motor Inn supply, making it difficult to enforce. Western 2306 Beacon Avenue Sidney, Best BC V8L 1X2 PLUS Emerald Isle Motor Inn The answer to eelgrass protection may 2306 Beacon Ave., sidney, BC • 250.656.4441 (250) 656-4441 be found in education. Since 1998, non1.800.315.3377 bwemeraldisle.com 1.800.315.3377 | bwemeraldisle.com profit organization SeaChange and Best Western® is independently owned and operated. Bestmarks Western and the Best Western marks are service marks Each Besthave Westernworked Hotel is independently ownedEach and operated. BestHotel Western and the Best Western marks are service its team of volunteers or registered service marks of Best Western International, Inc. ©2009 Western Inc. All rights or registered serviceBest marks of BestInternational, Western International, Inc.reserved. ©2011 Best Western International, Inc. All rights reserved. diligently in Saanich Inlet, and other RE

Tsehum ST Harbour H

EN AV AY TB PA Y HW

Patricia Bay

Ferry Terminal

WAIN

MILLS

BEACON

To Victoria

®

www.seasidetimes.ca

april 2012

47


Mobile Nursing Footcare Services

LeSSoNS

Glenda Bruce RN., BScN

with over 34 years in health care

|

ToUrS

|

reNTALS

|

rePAirS

If you require assistance with your footcare, you may consider a nursing footcare professional.

Be Good to Your Feet and They Will Be Good To You Services Include: ° Foot bath and inspection of feet ° Assessment of general health status ° Clean, cut and filing of toenails ° Non-invasive care of corns and calluses ° Non-invasive care of dry, cracked heels ° Moisturize and massage feet ° Client teaching ° Client referral, as required Cost per session $50 Cash or cheque accepted

Footcare

By Glenda

Atlantis Kayaks | Nimbus Kayaks | Hellman Canoes | Swell SUP

250-812-4009 • glenda.bruce@shaw.ca

250.665.7411 ǀ www.pacificpaddle.com ǀ Brentwood Bay

NewPartner

Henley & Walden LLP is pleased to announce that Dominique J. Alford has been admitted to the partnership. Dominique has over 15 years of extensive experience in Corporate and Commercial transactions, as well as Real Estate, Estate Planning and Estate Administration. Her admirable credentials include admission to the bars of British Columbia, Alberta and Manitoba.

www.henleywalden.com

Dominique has developed a thriving practice with Henley & Walden LLP over the past few years. Dominique is involved with the Saanich Peninsula community. Currently she sits on the Board of Directors of the Saanich Peninsula Foundation and is an active member of the Brentwood Bay Rotary Club. Henley & Walden LLP has been serving the legal needs of the Saanich Peninsula for over 30 years providing professional services in Personal and Business Law including Wills, Trusts and Estate Planning, Powers of Attorney, Representation Agreements, Executorships, Estate Administration and Litigation, Real Estate, Corporate and Family Law.

201-2377 Bevan ave. Sidney, B.C. v8L 4M9

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www.seasidetimes.ca

Tel: 250-656-7231


tweet this!

How to Build Your Social Media Network by Chris Burdge There is a new world order of marketing and it consists of Likes, Fans, Followers and Shares. Social networking is more important than ever for small business owners. Consumers are spending more time on socialmedia sites like Facebook, YouTube and Twitter. As a small business owner, you need to evolve with the times to remain competitive. Here are five tips that you can employ to build your social network, connect with customers and grow your business.

1. Blog

Blogging is an excellent way to demonstrate your expertise while promoting web visibility with relevant updates about you and your business. Sites like Blogger.com provide free web-hosting with user-friendly page design and application interfaces. They make it quick and easy to create a blog, with no html-code knowledge required. You can even create and use your own domain name.

don’t extend it. This means not only regularly posting content to your social networks but, just as importantly, replying, commenting on and “liking” others' content as often as possible. This not only fosters fellowship among your peers, but also creates links back to your network.

4. Keyword Usage

When building and expanding your social network, it is important that the written content on your blog and social networks makes use of keyword phrasing. Search engines scan text on your site and social networks to determine what they are about and rank their relevance in comparison to commonly searched keyword phrases. Using keywords within your text boosts its ranking and pushes your site closer to the top of search engine results. Having said that, avoid forcing keywords into your text just to gain a higher ranking. Your content is

a conversation between you and your customers and keywordstuffing can turn off readers.

5. Visual Content

Whether you are a retailer, professional or own a roofing business, posting visual content, such as pictures, videos and slideshows on YouTube, your blog and other social networking sites can showcase the products and services you provide, while demonstrating your expertise to potential customers. If you are a tradesman, such as a painter or landscaper, you can use videos or slideshows to show the progress of a job from start to finish, rather than simple before and after photos. Consistently employing these tips will enable you to attract new customers, build your brand and keep you on the leading edge of today's social-driven marketplace. For more social media marketing tips visit Chris’ blog at www.bwest.ca.

Taste is More Than What You Wear …

It’s What You Drink !

2. Blogger Outreach

Create a list of blogs that you like and read them on a regular basis – at least twice a month. Look for opportunities to leave relevant and well-thought-out comments on blog posts related to your business. This will create back-links to your blog and it will become visible to the blogs on your list, giving others the opportunity to visit your blog in return.

www.freshcup.ca

… the Solution to Stale Coffee Sweater Tongue and Bad Taste !

3. Be Social

Remember that the first word in "social networking" is social; no one will shake your hand if you

Saanichton: Mt. Newton X Road at Wallace Drive www.seasidetimes.ca

april 2012

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Beautiful waterfront location on the Saanich Peninsula • Pet and child friendly Daily, weekly and monthly rates • Free long-term parking available Going away for Spring Break? Park Your Car Here FOR FREE! Friend us on Facebook!

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

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veterinary voice

Hear! Hear! What's in Your Ear? by Dr. Shelley Breadner You would be surprised at what can be found in your pet’s ears. Anything from mites to wax, yeast, bacteria, grass seeds and more! Animals generally have more conical outer ear canals, much longer than that of humans. This helps to funnel in sound to the ear drum. Large upright ears, such as with pharaoh hounds, help dissipate heat for animals in hot climates, while Arctic foxes have densely furred small ears to minimize heat loss. Long dangly ears (think bloodhounds) help curl odours in toward the nostrils to enhance scenting abilities. Some ear types are selected as a breed standard, with the Scottish fold cat being a great example. The ear canal is lined with highly specialized skin that acts like a miniature escalator to carry wax up and out. Inflammation of the ear canal, or otitis externa, is a common problem in West Coast dogs and this impedes the escalator. Signs include ear pain, head shaking, ear scratching, redness, crusts or heavy debris, and often a stinky odour. Swimming or bathing can exacerbate infections by increasing humidity, resulting in bacteria and yeast growth. Narrow ear canals can predispose a dog to infection, as ventilation and movement of ear wax are impeded. Shar peis, many spaniel breeds, bulldogs and many dogs with cropped ears have narrow canals and increased incidence of infections. Chronic infections can also cause the canal to become thickened and narrow, exacerbating the problem. In

severe cases the infection can travel to the inner ear and cause deafness and nerve damage. A simple ear swab and microscopic examination can identify the perpetrators and direct therapy. Most ear infections can be cleared up with regular cleaning and ear ointments. Allergies from food, fleas or the environment are common contributors to ear inflammation. These contribute to chronic conditions. Some individuals are allergic to bee stings or spider bites, resulting in hives on the ear flaps and face. Even low thyroid function has also been linked to poor skin and ear problems. Foreign bodies such as spear grass are very common in summertime. These grass seeds have one-way barbs that cause them to migrate deep into the ear canal and even puncture the ear drum. Owww! Very painful, indeed! Ear mites are pesky creatures commonly found in young cats, but can occur in both cats and dogs. They can cause tremendous pain and inflammation, and need to be treated. Can you imagine having those crawly creatures making a ruckus in your ears? The itching never stops when mites are present.Please see your veterinarian when your pet shows signs of a troubled ear, get it treated promptly and discuss how you can prevent future infections. Your pet will thank you for the relief and comfort, and you know they will have no excuse for not coming when you call them! More information can be found at www.breadnervet.com.

Sidney ’s Pet Centre & Aquatics Check out our new line of ALL-NATURAL DOG TREATS Made in North America! #4-9769 Fifth St., Sidney 250-656-3314 www. sidneypetcentre.com www.seasidetimes.ca

april 2012

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What’s Happening – April 2012

April 4, 11, 18, 25 Snowdon House Farms Papardelle's Pasta Nights

1890 Mills Road, North Saanich 6:30 - 8:30 p.m. 250-658-3419, www.snowdonhouse.ca Come and join Laura in the farm kitchen for an exciting night of wonderful gourmet pasta, salads and soup. Enjoy savouring the flavours! April 4th – mild spice red pepper pasta with smoked chicken; April 11th – explore a variety of orzos as main dish, salad and soup; April 18th – salsa vera cruz with chicken and green jalapeno pasta; April 25th – linguine alla carrettiere with lemon pepper pasta. $20 per night, limited seating for eight. Please phone and book ahead.

mushrooms, baked goods, meat and crafts, and of course seeds for the home gardener. Come out and meet your neighbours and support our local farmers.

April 14 - 15 Mary Winspear Centre, Sidney Saturday: 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. & 7-9:30 p.m. Sunday: 10 a.m. - 5 p.m. www.thebrant.ca

Featured in the program will be Edward Elgar's "From The Bavarian Highlands" and compositions by two young Victoria composers, Nathan Friedman and Rowan Hensley, winners of the choir's recent composition competition. Tickets: $15 regular, $8 students. Available at Tanner's or at the door.

Wildlife Art Show

B.C.’s largest wildlife art show and woodcarving competition. Displays, silent and live auctions, woodturnings, commercial booths, workshops and demonstrations. Featuring the Island's top wildlife artists. Admission $7.

Peninsula Newcomers Luncheon

Sidney Concert Band Fundraising Concert

Haro's Restaurant & Bar, Sidney Pier Hotel & Spa, 11:30 a.m. www.peninsulanewcomers.ca

Peace Lutheran Church 2295 Weiler Ave, Sidney, 2 p.m. 250-655-4922, ewiggins@shaw.ca

Just moved to the Saanich Peninsula? Why not join our club to make new friends and get to know the community! Share in a variety of interests and activities organized and run by our members. Our invited speaker for this luncheon is Sue Troughton, a retired teacher, registered counsellor, yoga therapist, registered foot reflexologist who will share her extensive experience in “Embracing Complementary Therapies: Creating a Vibrant, Healthier You at any Age.” For more information on joining our club, check out our website (above).

Rogers & Hammerstein, Holst, Swing, and lots more! Music styles that speak to all ages. Refreshments served following the entertainment. Tix $12 (children 15 and under free).

April 14

Saanich Peninsula Presbyterian Church Sidney, 12-4 p.m. 250-479-6488, 250-652-9604 www.cfuwsaanichpeninsula.org

Discovering Our Native Bees (Adult Presentation 18+) Francis/King Regional Park (Saanich), 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. 250-478-3344, www.crd.bc.ca/parks Join a CRD Regional Parks’ naturalist and our guest biologist, Gord Hutchings, to discover more about our fascinating native bees. Following the presentation, participants will make a Mason bee condo. Supplies included in registration fee: $17+HST. Pre–registration required before April 13th. Space is limited.

April 14

North Saanich Farm Market St. John's United Church Annex 10990 West Saanich Road, 9:30-12:30 www.northsaanichfarmmarket.ca Expect

to

find

seasonal

veggies,

eggs,

Via Choralis Chamber Choir "Seven Ages of Song" Apr 21 - 7:30 p.m. @ First Unitarian Church, Sidney Apr 22 - 2:30 p.m. @ St. Elizabeth's Church, Sidney www.viachoralis.ca

April 15

April 12

April 21 - 22

April 16

Canadian Federation of University Women Saanich Peninsula Bridge Afternoon

$80 per table/$20 per person, proceeds to CFUW(SP) education fund for scholarships and bursaries for students from the Peninsula. Lunch, prizes, food and fun! Open to the public.

April 16

Companions of the Quaich Bourbon & Bluegrass Sidney Pier Hotel & Spa, 7 p.m. 250-658-1109, wuhrer@shaw.ca Sacrilege! Whisky connoisseurs tasting bourbons. This will be a special evening featuring four fine bourbons, a Cajun menu (mildly spiced) and live Blue Grass music. Two founding members recently returned from New Orleans will MC the evening. Three-course dinner; four bourbon tastings. Members $60, guests $70, dinner only (designated drivers) $50.

April 27 - 28

Parkland Secondary School 30 Hour Famine Fundraiser Parkland Secondary School, Sidney www.famine.ca Parkland students are raising money to support education for children in Africa. Money raised wil be donated to build better learning environments and a water reservoir and train teachers to give students an equal opportunity to learn. To donate, drop off cheques/money at the Parkland Secondary office, in an envelope labelled "30 Hour Famine." Interested parties can also register online at www.famine.ca and join the Parkland Secondary group to support the students, track their progress and more. Please participate in the students' bottle drive on Saturday, April 7th by dropping off bottles at Parkland Secondary School.

April 28

Peninsula Garden Club Spring Plant Sale Mary Winspear Centre, Sidney 9 - 11 a.m. www.peninsulagardenclub.ca Great selection and great prices!

April 28 - 29

Saanich Peninsula Arts and Crafts Society Fine Art Exhibition & Sale Mary Winspear Centre, Sidney Apr 28th: 10-6, Apr 29th: 10 - 4:30 250-655-1855, www.spacsociety.com

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


Steps for Life Walk On June 28th, 1993 a young man, at the age of 22, had his last day of work. That morning he woke up, got dressed, kissed his fiancée and left for work. Unknowingly he did that for the last time, because he didn’t come home from work that day. I was eight on June 28th, 1993 and that young man was my oldest brother, Greg. When people hear words like tragedy, death, accidents, injury and disease, they rarely think about the workplace. But I do. Greg was a logger: he drove a skidder, a machine that picks up the freshly cut logs. When the rest of his team went for lunch, Greg decided to go make one more run. When he was coming back with an empty load he hit a patch of loose shale and slid over a short drop-off, causing his machine to flip. Turning over twice, Greg lost his hard hat and, ironically, he smashed his head on the steel safety cage. Greg was rushed to the hospital and remained in a coma for five months. Sadly, on November 29th, 1993, Greg lost his battle and passed away. No one wants to go through losing a brother, sister, mother, father, son or daughter, but three to four workers are killed in the workplace every day. Greg is now a statistic. Seldom does one ever think that they are going to be a statistic, however for every eight-hour shift, one person in Canada will lose their life due to a workplace tragedy. Many more will be injured or contract an occupational disease.

Peninsula Players Presents:

How tHe otHer HAlf loveS

“If it’s laughter you’re after, see ‘How the Other Half Loves.’” ~ The Stage “The play swung along at a cracking pace and well deserved the enthusiastic applause which came at the end of each act and at the close.” ~ Scarbourough Evening News

enjoy the Players’ 60th Season finalé! May 25th & 26th @ 7:30 pm May 27th @ 2 pm Adults $18 • Seniors/Students $15 (+ hst)

250-656-0275 • www.marywinspea r.ca

Through this tragedy in my life, I found a support group called Threads of Life. It is a national non-profit organization that provides peer-support to families of workplace fatalities, life-altering injuries and occupational disease. Every year there are fundraising walks across Canada, called Steps of Life, to raise awareness about safe work procedures. This year is Sidney’s third annual Steps for Life walk. We are holding it at Tulista Park on May 6th, 2012. It is a 5km walk along the waterfront and registration starts at 10 a.m. All proceeds will go to Threads of Life to support families that have experienced a workplace tragedy. Come out and have a walk, BBQ lunch and spread the message of workplace safety! We want to come home safely; we don’t want to have our next work day to be our last! Submitted by Jennette Shoesmith.

Sudoku Solutions 3 6 5 1 4 7 8 2 9

5 7 9 4 3 1 2 8 6

Puzzle by websudoku.com

2 4 6 7 5 8 9 3 1

8 1 3 2 9 6 5 4 7

6 8 4 5 7 9 3 1 2

9 3 7 8 1 2 6 5 4

1 5 2 3 6 4 7 9 8

Exceedingly Evil

7 2 1 9 8 3 4 6 5

7 3 5 8 1 2 4 9 6

4 8 2 9 6 3 7 5 1

6 9 1 5 7 4 8 3 2

3 7 9 6 4 8 1 2 5

Puzzle by websudoku.com

5 4 8 2 9 1 6 7 3

2 1 6 3 5 7 9 8 4

9 2 7 1 3 6 5 4 8

1 5 3 4 8 9 2 6 7

8 6 4 7 2 5 3 1 9

Hardly Simple

4 9 8 6 2 5 1 7 3

SEASIDE  TIMES

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Sudoku Puzzles Hardly Simple

7

6 3

5 6 6 7 4 1 2 4 6 4 9 5 8 3 1 8 1 5 4 9 5 4 8 9

Puzzle by websudoku.com

9 2 8

1 7

Exceedingly Evil

3

1

4 4 3 1

5 9

2 9 7 6

8

Keep Your Brain Healthy

6 9

2

5 2

7 5 9

Puzzle by websudoku.com

The Alzheimer’s Association recommends doing puzzles like Sudoku to strengthen brain cells and the connections between them. Each Sudoku has a unique solution that can be reached logically without guessing. Enter digits from 1 to 9 into the blank spaces. Every row must contain one of each digit. So must every column, as must every 3x3 square. * Sudoku Solutions can be found on page 53

Zais Astrology – April 2012 by Heather Zais (heather_zais@telus.net) Aries (march 21 - april 19) You like to be number one and with the sun in your sign this month, you can be. Step into leadership roles even if they're not the ones you picked; every step forward is in a good direction – have enough resources for it.

Libra (september 23 - october 22) Mate or partnership matters are in focus and it could affect how others see you in public. Take care of legal issues or agreements so that everyone will be happy with the outcome. The impression you make is important now.

Taurus (april 20 - may 20) Work around limitations or physical restrictions. Follow through on tests or procedures even if it's on behalf of others. Certain matters need to be handled confidentially as timing is an issue. Do what it takes to get ahead.

Scorpio (october 23 - november 21) Lay out a practical plan of action that makes you feel secure about your future path. Adapt to terms or conditions quickly and others' confidence in you will grow. You have what it takes to beat or avoid any competition.

Gemini (may 21 - june 20) Lighthearted social activity connects you to those who are helpful to your hopes and wishes. Clear away any deadwood in order to reap the benefits. You glide past problems or delays with natural ease. Communicate.

Sagittarius (november 22 - december 21) Your creativity is stimulated on various levels. Participate in events with those whose company you enjoy. There will likely be someone who sparks romantic interest or a desire to collaborate. Compare notes in person.

Cancer (june 21 - july 22) Focus on your career direction or standing in the public eye; you can make gains. Others will be surprised when you change your approach – they will not be prepared for it. You are more forceful or driven, helping you advance.

Capricorn (december 22 - january 19) A focus on your basic security may require decisions of home or base of operations. Avoid controversial issues to buy yourself some time. Settle anything that could become a problem. Your personal power is increasing.

Leo (july 23 - august 22) Consider your long-term future plans. Find a relaxing place or environment that will enhance your choices, as you don't want to be pressured either way. Be adaptable to changes that must be made; it all works out for you.

Aquarius (january 20 - february 18) Words need to be arranged carefully to make the proper impact or be accepted. Attend meetings or gatherings; take the lead if asked. An increased interest in knowledge gets you involved with teaching or learning.

Virgo (august 23 - september 22) Take a closer look at anything you hold jointly with others. There may be benefits you haven't considered before. There are additional sources of gain in other areas as well. You are capable and resourceful in many ways.

Pisces (february 19 - march 20) Consider your value on all levels. Your talents and abilities are worth more than you may be getting; others should keep their opinions to themselves. Buy, sell or promote with success, then take time out for yourself.


last w o rd "Are you getting tired of me talking nonstop about recycling and composting?" I asked my boyfriend tonight. He said no, but I feel like I haven't thought of much else since I saw the film The Clean Bin Project (www.cleanbinmovie.com), a documentary presented by the Brentwood Local Environmental Action Divas (LEAD). The Clean Bin Project was begun by Vancouver couple Grant Baldwin and Jen Rustemeyer. Their goal: to produce zero landfill waste and not buy any "stuff" for one year. With Earth Day on April 22nd, I thought I'd share some of what I learned from the film and the Q & A that followed with the readers of Seaside Times. Hopefully it will inspire you as much as it did me! The Great Pacific Garbage Patch is an area of marine litter, roughly twice the size of Texas, in the north Pacific Ocean. It's caused by marine pollution being gathered by oceanic currents, and in this area trash outweighs the plankton by a factor of six to one. Chris Jordan realized long ago that large numbers representing our effect on the planet are incomprehensible. "If we could see this stuff, behold it with our senses, we might feel something, and when we feel something that's when we act," he said. An estimated 240,000 plastic bags are consumed around the world every 10 seconds, only 1% of which are recycled. In his artwork, modelled on Botticelli's Birth of Venus, Chris shows us this number, rather than telling us. His series, Running the Numbers II: Portraits of global mass culture, is not to be missed. Visit www.chris.jordan.com to view. I didn't realize how much harm is caused by tossing organic material in the garbage. When food is disposed in a landfill it becomes a significant source of methane – a potent greenhouse gas with 21 times the global warming potential of carbon dioxide. We picked up an under-thecounter compost bin from Home Hardware for $10. This is just meant as a temporary stopover for stuff on the way to your larger outdoor compost heap, but it makes the process easy and therefore, makes us more likely to do it! Use Google for guidance on what can be composted. Myrecyclopedia.ca is a resource for the Capital Region to identify how to reduce, reuse and recycle in the CRD. There residents can find convenient facility locations and get the environmental story behind the items we use in our homes and businesses. Making changes that are good for the environment, said the LEAD ladies, may seem overwhelming, but just pick one thing to start with and take it from there!

Allison Smith,

SEASIDE  TIMES

Visit our Website www.bleuecoyote.com to find out our daily specials! New CANUCKS GAMe DAY SPeCIALS Game Time 2-for-1 Appies Game Day $3.50 Sleeves Seniors Discount Monday & Tuesday 15% off Mon-Sat 11am-12pm, Sun 10am-9pm 7100 wallace Drive, Brentwood Bay 250.652.3252 • www.bleuecoyote.com

Editor-in-Chief

www.seasidetimes.ca

april 2012

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