WEST COAST CULTURE SEPTEMBER 2011
Oh, those Glory Days . . .
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O C T O B E R 1 4 T H R O U G H 2 3 2 0 11
F E S T I V A L
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west coast culture
Seaside Times september 2011 First Word
Letters Weatherwit
September Weather Forecast
Footprints
Conversations From the Past
Tweet This!
Seaside Times: Going Social
Skin Deep Shiraz Me!
Forbes & Marshall Crabby Teachers Formerly a Barabaig boy tending the family herds, now he is a teacher with a graduate degree in math and physics, upgrading his qualifications to teach university preparation classes. Imagine the dedication necessary to go from being a kid chasing cows to an education grad student with an advanced science degree.
TAnzanian Diary ~
p. 36
Island Dish "Pop"-ular!
Smell The Coffee Why Coffee?
Walkabout Tanzanian Diary
Seaside News
B.C.'s Deep Ocean Explorers
Veterinary Voice
Animal Comfort in the Hot & Dry
Grey Matters Memories
What’s Happening On the cover:
"The Heron" by Virgil Sampson "On Eagle Wings" pg 8
Community Calender
Entertainment Sudoku & Astrology
Last Word
6 7 11 12 14 17 19 24 30 36 39 41 47 50 53 55
fi rst wo rd French Beach – one of my most treasured places on Vancouver Island. As I settle into the sand to do a few pictures for the September issue's First Word, I muse over the sights and sounds of my trip to the Philippines a few years ago and consider all the magnificent connections I made. My stay on Siquijor Island (the Magical Island) helped me remember how happy one can feel when you live life in the moment and are surrounded by people who surrender to happiness on a daily basis. I had forgotten what it was like to live in a city where eye contact is noticeably rare, and the joy of hugging relatively unpredictable.
meaning changes within each culture but it remains consistent as a symbol of positive force and the power of life in general. It dates back to prehistoric times, where evidence shows they may have had a wingspan of over two feet! As a creature of the wind, the dragonfly represents change. It lives a short life (only a few months), so it must live that life to the fullest within the short time it has – a lesson for all of us. So remember, the special connections that we make throughout life are worth reflection, worth renewing … if not only to discover ourselves, to help live a life that’s full of luminosity and contentment. In this issue of Seaside Times, we get close and personal with you, our readers. As of September, we go live with social media. With professional assistance from Chris Burdge, owner of bWest Interactive (see pg. 14), we’ll be connecting with our readers and the community through Twitter, Facebook, YouTube and via our blog. It’s very exciting! I hope you will follow us each month for updates and experiences as we go through this for the first time. And in case I forget what it’s like to be in the moment, listening to the inner and outer voices (or my new twitter account), one thing is certain: I’ll book another trip to that little taste of paradise very soon.
As I sit here and take into account how much I appreciate the people of the Philippines and just how they inspired me, I relate the experience to another thing in life that exemplifies a similar joy and such timeless beauty: the dragonfly. I know, it sounds like a strange analogy, but they are remarkable insects. We should all Photo courtesy of my son, Lucas. wish to be one, one day, and realize the essence of life and how MIneral World • Seaside Times Aug has 2011 precious it really is. I read once that to some, the dragonfly no• Size: 7.75” (w) x 4.925” (h) • REV 2 • Aug 16/11 symbolic meaning. Now that’s crazy! Of course, the dragonfly's
Sue Hodgson, Publisher
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SEASIDE TIMES
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L etters
www.seasidetimes.ca Publisher, Advertising Sales Sue Hodgson 250.516.6489 sue@seasidetimes.ca
Seaside Times welcomes your feedback! Please send letters to the editor via editor@seasidetimes.ca. I received my issue of Seaside Times the other day and now there is only one issue to look forward to before we leave for Canada and Sidney. This subscription has meant a lot to me. I have made a "scrapbook" over the months so we are well prepared for our stay in Sidney in September: where to dine, where to bike, galleries to visit, shops, markets etc. – the list goes on and on. Your magazine has always been a pleasure to read because of the many and varied interesting articles. I wish you and your staff all the best and good luck with yet another woman "on board!" And also – all the best to Tim.
Editor-in-Chief Allison Smith 250.813.1745 editor@seasidetimes.ca
Advertising Sales Lori Swan lori@seasidetimes.ca
Kind regards, Gunn Anna Dyrstad (Norway)
This Month’s Contributors Muriel Jarvis Ackinclose • Arlene Antonik Trysh Ashby-Rolls • Pene Beavan Horton Jennifer Bowles • Shelley Breadner • Chris Burdge Dianne Connerly • Michael Forbes • Dave Gartley Doreen Marion Gee • Valerie Green Wendy Hacking • Pene Beavan Horton • Tina Kelly Ryan Labelle • Teagan McKay • Derek Peach Steve Sakiyama • Tara Saracuse • Anny Scoones Steve Sheppard • Sophia Speier • John Thorp Jim Townley • 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.
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✢ ✢ ✢ Another kudo to you – from my husband and from my 93-year-old mother – who each read the latest issue cover to cover (and me not even being in it!) and gave it a two (or is that four) thumbs up for content and layout. Wendy Hacking
✢ ✢ ✢ Once again, thoroughly enjoyed the August issue and beautiful cover photo. The Seaside Times always seems to have an article or two with which I easily relate. I always look forward to Conversations From the Past by Valerie Green and Forbes & Marshall continue to crack me up on the radio and in Michael's great articles. I am quite envious of his obvious talent. The Sidney Museum with Beacon Beckons by Brad Morrison was great. Grieving Pets by Dr. Shelley Breadner really hit home with Sandra and the loss of her beloved Figaro who, without question, was the perfect B&B cat. By copy of this note to Allison – KUDOS to your editor-in-chief. Keep up the good work. It is always a great day when I receive my Seaside Times. See you when I look at you. Larry Gray
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I'm still applauding the great job you do there, and the story you devoted to our open horse shows a few months ago. Enjoyed your great coverage this month of the upcoming Fair … and with all the scores of entries and youth categories that deserve support! My best to you all! Bob Ramsey
www.seasidetimes.ca
september 2011
7
On Eagle Wings by Doreen Marion Gee
B
ehind the godless walls of the residential school system, a nation’s children were savagely stripped of their language, culture and traditions. Cultural genocide is the term often used for this iniquity against our First Peoples. Fortunately, the tides have turned, and First Nations people are proudly reclaiming their culture and their lives. From September 10th to October 23rd, our community will honour the artistic achievements of multi-talented local First Nations artists. An exciting art show will shine a light on the majestic cultural comeback of the first people who walked the verdant fields of our Peninsula. Once again, our First Peoples will rise on eagle wings to take their rightful place in the sun. Donna Cottell, a Métis woman and coordinator of The Invitational First Nations and Métis Show and Sale, trembles with excitement. To her, this show symbolises a warm Peninsula “Welcome” to our aboriginal neighbours who enrich our community. The event is a celebration of First Nations’ culture on the lower Island. Sponsored by the Community Arts Council of the Saanich Peninsula (CACSP), the art show and sale celebrates the artistic accomplishments of local native artists and recognises the hard won renewal of their traditional culture.
Charles Elliott (pictured below) is an internationally renowned Coast Salish artist. His hands carved the noble totem poles that greet visitors at the University of Victoria and the Victoria International Airport. In 2005, Charles received the Order of British Columbia for his cultural contributions to our province. He believes that he was one of the first early artists to nurture the Coast Salish traditional art form to life on the Peninsula. The cultural meaning
We see evidence everywhere these days that our First Peoples are rising like the phoenix to take their culture back. This art show applauds that courage and tenacity. We honour them as they soar on eagle wings.
M E N S W E A R
is clear for Charles: “Our art makes us visible. When the world sees our art, it brings pride and joy to our people. It brings attention to us and that we are not extinct – we are still here!”
d.g.bremner & co.
The First Nations cultural resurgence is tinged with excellence. Two of the artists exhibiting their creations this month exemplify the grassroots genius of the iconic native art form. A gentle, soft-spoken man, Chris Paul (pictured at left) creates art that will take your breath away. His exquisite images on wood and glass sparkle and dazzle. Adding his own contemporary flair to the traditional form, his butterflies and dragonflies dance in the air. This Coast Salish artist’s beautiful glasswork graces the interior of the Sidney Pier Hotel & Spa, Kelset School and the Gulf Islands Operations Centre. Chris reflects on his love of his craft: “The one thing in my life that kept holding my attention was artwork. It was almost a relief to bring out the sketchbook. As I was developing as an artist, the native art kept creeping in. The most exciting thing that I like to do with my life is to participate in my culture and make a living at it.”
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This is the third year for this culturally significant exhibition. As a sign of respect to the artists, all of the proceeds of the sales go directly to them. There are many skilled First Nations artists showcasing their work at the show. Chris Paul’s stunning glass cougar mask is among the various pieces of art donated by the artists for the prize draw. With raffle tickets at $2 (or
A C C E S S O R I E S
When the world sees our art, it brings pride and joy to our people. three for $5 ) and free admission, anyone can relish this cultural experience of a lifetime!
For more information, visit www.cacsp.com or www.chrispaul.ca. The Art Show and Sale will be open every day from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Photos courtesy Doreen Marion Gee.
september 2011
9
LIFE’S TOO SHORT
www.seasidetimes.ca
TREAT YOURSELF
~ Green Coast ~
SEASIDE TIMES
More Than Just a “Bad Hair Day” by Jim Townley For most of us, the thought of a “Bad Hair Day” goes as far as the need to add more hair gel, or taking the flat iron to remedy a momentary lack of luscious locks. But … what if you had cancer and the chemotherapy treatment caused your hair to fall out? For many cancer patients, this brings a whole new meaning to “Bad Hair Day.” Anne Monto, owner of Genesis Hair & Esthetics on Keating X Road, knows this scenario all too well as she lost both of her parents to cancer and has helped many people deal with the unfortunate side effects. “Making someone feel beautiful when they don’t feel that way is a privilege, and I always make time for those in need of this support,” notes Anne.
80% of Learning is Visual! Let us make sure your child reaches their full potential As children grow … so do their eyes! About one in five kids have a problem with their eyes’ ability to focus. Vision problems left undetected or untreated may cause permanent damage to not only eyesight, but school performance and self esteem. Fortunately, most cases can be easily corrected with the use of eyeglasses or contact lenses. Children should have an eye exam by age three, followed by regular check ups as required. And why not? Until your child’s 19th birthday, their BC Care Card covers the cost of exams at our office! A complete eye exam covers much more than just prescribing corrective eye wear. At our clinic, we assess eye muscle coordination, colour perception, depth perception and overall ocular health.
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Anne has taken on the challenge of fighting cancer seriously, and over the past six years has endeavoured to help a number of groups on the Saanich Peninsula raise money through the tradition of what is now referred to as Head Shaving. The ritual that once started out as a loved one shaving their head as a show of solidarity for someone close to them suffering from the disease has now turned into a annual occurrence for many groups that work to raise money for cancer research. “It’s amazing how many people have had a family member or friend suffer from one of the many forms of cancer. I think it’s something we have to beat and the annual Cops For Cancer “Tour de Rock” event that travels the length of Vancouver Island is a great way to bring the importance of fighting cancer to the forefront,” says Monto. Since Anne started shaving heads at Keating Elementary, Peninsula Lacrosse Association, Peninsula Co-Op and even a local biker group, she thinks the grand total is approaching about 1,000 heads. “If not by now, this year for sure,” chuckles Anne. This year Anne is taking her head-shave campaign to the Peninsula Country Market, where on Saturday September 24th from 9 to 1 p.m. she plans to engage in a number of fundraising activities in the hope that she and her team, assisted by the students of Studio 63, the hairdressing program run by School District 63 from the former Saanichton Elementary School on Mt. Newton X Road, can raise $3,000 towards the Cops for Cancer “Tour de Rock” campaign. Fundraising events include air-brush tattoos, games, hot dogs courtesy of Peninsula Co-Op, and of course plenty of head shaves for those that want to donate to a very worthy cause. www.seasidetimes.ca
d.g.bremner & co.
weathe r wit
M E N S W E A R
September Weather Forecast by Steve Sakiyama “Step away from the coffee cup.”
A N D
As I stepped out of the house with a suitcase in one hand and a coffee in another, it started to rain so I trotted down the sidewalk to my car. Along the way I noticed three police cars with lights flashing racing towards me from different directions, and, in an amazing feat of automobile choreography, come to a screeching halt right in front of the house. The officers jumped out in unison and stood behind the open car doors – glaring at me. “Put down the suitcase!” one of them shouted. I looked around, wondering who they were talking to. “Me?” I asked incredulously. “Yes, you!” I dropped the suitcase. “Now put down the coffee.”
Will the Pacific High stay past Labour Day? Long-term forecast models for September indicate a slight bias toward cooler and drier than normal, but it’s not strong enough to expect anything other than the average run-of-themill, pleasant fall weather. For Labour Day my sentimental forecast is a mix of sun and cloud, symbolic of a transition from our vacation freedom to other good things like work and school. In celebration of this day, I’ll avoid sudden moves and all hard labour, although I will trot around my yard with a suitcase while sipping coffee. Please don’t tell my neighbours. ~ Weatherwit. Questions or comments? Email me via info@seasidetimes.ca. For a humorous weekend weather forecast for Victoria, visit www.weatherwit.wordpress.com. september 2011
11
LIVE A LITTLE
The Latin root word for vacation means “freedom,” and we all were relieved when summer finally escaped the gloomy confines of July and arrived just in time for our August freedom vacations. Although July temperatures and precipitation were about average, we had much less bright
Thankfully, the Pacific High pressure system finally arrived to rescue summer. Although high and low pressure systems generally move about freely, this system typically takes up its summer residence off the West Coast – bringing with it weather the rest of Canada drools over. It is one of many pressure systems that are confined to certain areas around the world in a pattern that reveals an amazing, global circulation system.
~ Stone Rose ~
It turns out a neighbour saw a stranger (me) in the house packing up and leaving with stuff – so they called Chicago’s finest. After an explanation and a nervous laugh shared with the officers, I was “free to go.” However, for a moment I was thinking of jail time, how terribly embarrassed my mother would be and the cake she would send me with a hacksaw hidden inside.
sunshine than normal (about 20% less, based on preliminary data), making this July the seventh dullest on record.
WEAR GREAT SHIRTS
I dropped the coffee. By now I was soaking wet, not from the rain but due to my overactive sweat glands.
A C C E S S O R I E S
While in Chicago at a conference, I stayed with a host family. On the day of my departure, my host family left on vacation before I was planning to leave, so I was responsible for lockup.
footp rints
Conversations From the 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.
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One of Victoria’s most colourful and controversial figures was the city’s first mayor, Thomas Harris, who served three terms in office between 1862 and 1865. (Interview conducted in 1880). Interviewer: Mr. Harris, why is that you like to refer to yourself as just “an ‘umble tradesman?” maynard: Because that is what I am! I’m a butcher by trade. Nothing fancy. In fact, I owned the very first butcher’s shop in Victoria. It was called “The Queen’s Market.” I: I believe you loved to walk around town spouting your opinions to anyone who would listen even before you were elected as mayor? M: Of course, and I always carried my buggy whip to emphasise an important point. I: How were you actually elected in 1862? M: By running a basic and very forthright campaign of course! I didn’t mind admitting that I was definitely not a well-educated man. I believed in honest labour in order to get ahead in life.
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I: Tell me about the actual election? M: Well, long before the hour set for the business of the day, a group of about 600 had assembled together. Mr. C.B. Young nominated Mr. Alfred Waddington, and Mr. Trimble, MP, nominated me. A show of hands revealed the fact that only four or five electors were in favour of Mr. Waddington, while “a perfect forest of hands” appeared above the heads of the crowd when a vote on me was called for. It was unanimous.
1931 Mt. Newton X Rd. – Saanichton 12
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I: That must have been very rewarding for you. Tell me, where were you born and how did you come to Victoria? www.seasidetimes.ca
I: My final question, Mr. Harris, is to ask you why you were forced to sell your home on Government Street? M: (even more irritated by my impertinence) Well, if you must know, I’ve always had a weakness for the horses – I gambled most of my fortune away. During Harris’s three years in power, he was stubborn, hot-headed and held unpopular opinions. At one time he was described as a dictator. However, he achieved a great deal of good for the city and helped ensure that Victoria became the provincial capital (in 1868) rather than New Westminster, which had held that honour since 1859. The first gas lamps and a new fire engine appeared during his terms. He died in November of 1884 at the age of 67. In 1959, a stone was placed at the foot of Harris Green on Pandora Street and a window was inserted in the Reformed Episcopal Church in his memory. Valerie Green is an author and historian and can be reached at valgee@shaw.ca.
M: (obviously irritated) Why is it that
Ronald A. Postings, R.D. Robin Postings, R.D. SIDNEY 250-655-7009
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13
TO GET OLD
I: Can you recall for me the incident at the second council meeting when your chair collapsed?
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I: Into the Thomas Wilson family I believe? M: (nodding in agreement) My wife and I achieved a great deal for the city and for the under-privileged, especially the Female Infirmary and other charitable organizations.
A C C E S S O R I E S
M: My wife and I had two daughters: Eliza and Emily. I named my steamship after Emily. The Emily Harris was the first to carry mail, passengers and cattle up and down the Island. Both our daughters also married well.
reporters always want to talk about that?! I simply disappeared under my desk because the chair was not sturdy enough to carry my large frame! The newspapers made such a lot of it.
A N D
I: I assume this allowed you to build that fine home for your family at the corner of Bastion Square and Government Street? Can you tell me a little about your family?
by Valerie Green
M E N S W E A R
M: I was born in Hertfordshire in England in 1817 and immigrated to California in 1853. By 1858 I had headed for Vancouver Island. I could see there was far more “gold” to be made here as a merchant than as a miner in the gold fields. To begin with I operated a slaughter house on Wharf Street but, because of the great demand for meat, especially by navy personnel, I opened up my own butcher’s shop.
d.g.bremner & co.
Past – Thomas Harris
tweet this!
Seaside Times: Going Social In the May and June issues I talked about what social media is and how it’s being used by individuals and companies in and around the CRD and on the Peninsula. This month, with only minor trepidation, we are officially launching the Seaside Times social media strategy. We invite you to join us on our journey as we ease into the land of social magazine publishing filled with blog posts, tweets, Facebook updates, Foursquare checkins, YouTube videos and more. The strategy is quite simple really – in fact it’s an extension of what the Seaside Times already does: tell stories, but with one major difference. Instead of the
typical one-way distribution of information, articles and stories in the printed magazine, social media is opening up new communication channels to encourage conversations with the editor and writers as well as other readers. Our social media goal is two-fold: 1) to bring you into and behind the stories with additional information, photos, video and outtakes that don’t fit in the printed publication; 2) to engage you, the reader in a conversation and to find out firsthand what you like, don’t like and want to know more about. In the past, if you really liked a story you might tell a friend and a few of you would send in a “letter to the editor.” Now you can give an individual article the virtual “thumbs up” by clicking the Facebook “Like” button on the website or our Facebook page. You can also share the article with your friends on Twitter or leave a comment on
80% of learning is visual.
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by Chris Burdge
our blog and exchange views with the writers and other readers. The Seaside Times blog will be an up-to-date window into what’s happening on the Peninsula. We invite you to participate in the storytelling with your comments, ideas and questions on the blog and Facebook. This is your Peninsula and your Seaside Times. We’ll also hold contests and promotions on a regular basis to bring you closer to our advertisers. Sounds overwhelming, right? Not necessarily. I have trained the Seaside team to use tools like Hootsuite (a social media management tool) to help manage their time effectively and monitor the social web for people talking about the Peninsula. There’s value for our advertisers as well. We know many of you have already launched your own social media initiatives. We intend to connect with you on the networks we have in common to help link Seaside Times readers with Peninsula businesses and organizations. If you’re skeptical about all this social media mumbo-jumbo, you’re not alone. The Seaside Times staff were too, but they’re picking it up fast. You can follow their progress or ask them how they’re doing by connecting in any of the following social spaces: Our blog: www.seasidetimes.ca Facebook: www.facebook.com/SeasideTimes Twitter: www.twitter.com/SeasideTimes YouTube: www.YouTube.com/SeasideTimes Chris Burdge is founder of bWEST Interactive, a social media consulting firm focused on helping companies grow their businesses by integrating social media with their overall communications plan. september 2011
Debbie Gray
sagegray@shaw.ca
Rene Blais
renehblais@gmail.com
Gaye Phillips
gayesoffice@shaw.ca
Roy Coburn
roy@victoriaacreages.com
Karen Dinnie-Smyth
kdinnie-smyth@shaw.ca
William Bird
wm.d.bird@shaw.ca
Afternoon Tea For Two © The Butchart Gardens Ltd. 2011
Enter to Win Admission & Tea For Two at BUTCHART GARDENS ($130 value) Jack Barker
jack@jackbarker.net
Lisa Dighton
ldighton@shaw.ca
Jim Allan
jimaallan@shaw.ca
To enter: send your name & phone number to Remax Camosun –
#14-2510 Bevan Ave., Sidney, phone 250-655-0608 or email remaxsidney@vreb.bc.ca Remax wishes to thank Butchart Gardens for this gift
Craig Walters
craig@craigwalters.net
Renee Colonnello
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Ross Shortreed
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Beverley McIvor
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Jeff Bryan
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Don Bellamy
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Local Celebrity Chefs at the Market The Peninsula Country Market continues to offer locally made crafts, delicious produce and wonderful entertainment as well as the new “Sysco Celebrity Chef Series” this fall. The “Fall Fest” will be inside the RCMP Barn at the Saanich Fairgrounds through to Thanksgiving weekend. Each Saturday the Market will showcase one local chef. They are representatives of Dish Cookhouse & Diner, RC Grillhouse ‘n Lounge, Haro’s Restaurant at the Sidney Pier Hotel & Spa, Beacon Landing Seafood Restaurant and the SeaGrille and Pub at Brentwood Bay Resort & Spa. Each Saturday one of the chefs will showcase their culinary talents. They will be preparing appetizing recipes, providing cooking tips and allowing a lucky winner the opportunity to sit at the chef’s table and enjoy the luxury of a well-prepared meal. You will
find an entry form in the Times Colonist each week. What does it take to be a master chef? Mastering the art of cooking takes years of practice and experimenting in the kitchen. Using your instincts to create your own cooking style generates successful recipes. Each one of our celebrity chefs bring a unique twist to their recipes and provide cooking ideas you are sure to incorporate into your daily meal planning.
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You can find more information on each weekly chef by visiting their restaurants or their websites – learn their picks for favorite recipe, favorite wine and favorite delicacy. The next time you entertain, your new cooking tips will be sure to inspire. There’s nothing better than having family and friends visiting in the kitchen, tasting new delicacies such as appetizers, desserts and, of course, a new and delicious entrée. Visit www.peninsulacountrymarket.ca to find out when your favorite chef will be entertaining you with their culinary talents. There you’ll find information on each chef plus a link to their website. While at the Peninsula Country Market you will be entertained, pampered and delighted to find just the right Christmas gift, great meal ideas, crafts for your children and music to dance to. See you at the Market!
Atlantis Kayaks | Nimbus Kayaks | Hellman Canoes 250.665.7411 | www.pacificapaddle.com | Brentwood Bay 16
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Photo: Celebrating 20 years, local growers and vendors show their support to Mayor Jack Mar as he cuts the ceremonial ribbon at the new entrance to the Peninsula Country Market. Photo courtesy Peninsula Country Market.
Shiraz Me!
s kin deep
Smart Start
by Dave Gartley
Kids everywhere love Nordic Naturals strawberry-flavored Children’s DHA. Made entirely from Arctic cod liver oil, rich in the omega-3 DHA. Easily swallowed or chewed by children over three, Children’s DHA also contains healthy levels of 100% natural vitamins A and D.
Last month we evaluated zinfandels and their berry/fruity characteristics. You were instructed to collect foods and spices whose tastes and smells could be found in the wine. This month we’ll do the same thing, but with a much heartier variety: shiraz (aka syrah). The Grape! Shiraz or syrah are the same grape, named differently depending on the country of origin. It is dark skinned and exhibits powerful flavours and aromas that produce a fullbodied wine. In the aroma, look for ripe berries, chocolate, coffee and black pepper. As the wine matures, earthy, leather or even truffles dominate. This wine is often “oaked” so you may get an oaky, smoky aroma and taste – especially if produced in Australia. So there is your shopping list.
Pure and Great Tasting Omega Oils
Tasting! This is one of my favourite wines, so excuse me if I get passionate. If your wine is heavily oaked, get past that and dig deep to extract the subtleties of this fabulous variety. Gather the ingredients mentioned above. Smell them and taste them one at a time with the wine … in little sips … breathing in the whole time. Pairing! This is a BIG WINE, and they pair well with hearty dishes. We’re talking meat and tomato-based dishes; poultry and fish won’t stand up (but peppered tuna steak will). The perfect menu? Caesar salad or a salad with minimal bitterness. Barbecued steak, burgers, lamb etc. (rare to medium rare with a dry pepper rub). Berry/chocolate dessert followed by coffee or port. Indiget cibo vinoque
Personal Wine Preparation World Class Wines at a Fraction of the Cost 250.652.6939 www.gartleystation.com #108 - 1901 Mt. Newton X Road, Saanichton
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Brentwood Bay at Trafalgar Square 250.544.8211 Sidney at Sidney Pier Hotel 250.656.5506
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september 8th–10th at
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september 11th–13th at Sidney Location
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7/29/2011 2:36:18 PM
fo rbes & marshall
Crabby Teachers
T
by Michael Forbes
he other day, I was watching the reality show Deadliest Catch, about the experiences of Alaska crab fishermen. One false move out there in the Bering Sea while hauling in thousands of those creepy crustaceans can buy them a long nap in Davey Jones' locker or, at the very least, a new nickname: stumpy. Their job is all about the danger pay and the money is exceptional … a good haul can earn the average deckhand upwards of $70,000 for six weeks work. Well, it may be the deadliest profession on the planet but, in my opinion, it’s not the most dangerous: that honour would go to the kindergarten teacher. You may have noticed a construction zone or at least a few outbuildings popping up around existing schools as they got themselves ready for a tsunami of five-year-olds come September. This is the first year that we will have mandatory, provincewide full day kindergarten and teachers were spending a good part of their August getting ready. I am told they will still teach the regular half day of curriculum but stretch it out to fill the entire day. That’s lots of hours to fill full of children with a rainbow of different personalities and demands. Thank God for pre-school: at least we all had the foresight to somehow prepare these kids for what was to come. Things are a lot different than when I went to school. There was no pre-school, oh no, you were just some five-year-old minding his own business, spending every waking moment with his mommy. Then, one day, you’re abandoned in a dank church basement with
an old piano and some finger paints in the care of a woman who looked like she could be Dorothy’s witchy nemesis in the Wizard of Oz. Yes, I have issues! It couldn’t have been a picnic for my new teacher either: I think I cried for three weeks, so much so that she scotchtaped a box of Kleenex to my wrist cause she was tired of looking for it whenever she had to wipe my nose. Even today, a full day of school for any five-year-old is not an easy thing. It’s emotional for parents too, who have cherished that time with their little ones and are already feeling that they grow up too fast. Teachers have to deal with demanding parents, sensitive kids, boys who cannot sit still and that rare breed that you just know are going to grow up one day to be in a room with a view of the field from the big house on Wilkinson Road. Yet, our teachers manage to do it with patience and a true love of children. But … there are those days, like our son Adam’s first day of kindergarten, when he decided to plug the bathroom sink with paper towels and leave the water running. Those are the times when I can forgive his teacher for daydreaming of the easy life … hauling in crab traps at -37°C in the Bering Sea. 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.
ocean985.com SEASIDE TIMES
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september 2011
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Live Beautiful. by Doreen Marion Gee
Expect glamour and panache when Tracey Jones and Stacey Kaminski redesign your castle! They are masters of the finishing touch, putting glitz and sparkle into your home. This all-important flick of the magic wand can turn dull into stunning. These two styling sprites are very excited about their fall focus and they have exciting new developments in their fairy backpacks. When it comes to life on the Peninsula, they have their own special way to make it more beautiful for you. After the hazy days of summer, fall is clean-up time. Tracey and Stacey, your personal interior stylists, are at your service! These two talented, warm and personable women are a fresh set of eyes that know how to transform any room with touches of glamour and polish. A new purple vase or red pillows here, relocating chairs and paintings there, and you will be thrilled at your new artsy sumptuous living space. Respecting and listening to the client is their modus operandi, and the secret to their success is having the professional confidence to put their clients in the driver’s seat. Tracey and Stacey have their own individual businesses but they work together as “Your Peninsula Interior Stylists and Real Estate Stagers.” Even though they enjoy the real estate work, they are passionate about interior styling, because it’s a chance to use those creative juices in people’s homes while they are still there to enjoy it. Here the sky is the limit. They told me of one senior who was apprehensive about changing her space but knew that it had to be done. The woman was stunned when she saw the finished 20
SEASIDE TIMES
product – her world had suddenly been beautified! The cost was surprisingly reasonable – the dynamic duo are determined to keep their service affordable. The styling fairies are all aflutter with the new developments in their interior styling service. First of all, they have a new ad, photo and tagline – Live Beautiful – that zooms in on their team effort. They also have a new name: Your Peninsula Interior Stylists. Secondly, Tracey and Stacey have an exciting new connection with the Design District Studio, a group of interior stylists. This gives them “buying power.” The group gets considerable discounts on the purchase of home furnishings, which Stacey and Tracey pass along to their lucky clients. Lastly, their new fall focus emphasises their midas touches in any room, any home project or renovation and in any environment. Live Beautiful has a profound meaning to Tracey Jones and Stacey Kaminski. They want people to be happy with their surroundings, to lay back and soak up the wonder of the good life on the Peninsula. They are eager to use their skilled wands to add that flair: that final beautiful embellishment that turns your space into a palace.
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september 2011
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3rd Annual Invitational First Nations and MĂŠtis Show and Sale September 10 - October 23 Traditional and contemporary First Nations and MĂŠtis artists will be featured. A few favourites from previous shows include Charles Elliott, Chris Paul, Dylan Thomas, Charlene George and Peter Gladstone. There will be a wide diversity of art expressions to be enjoyed by all. Opportunities to meet the artists as well as music and stories are planned. Tulista Art Centre on the edge of the Salish Sea Artwork by Charles Elliott
9565 Fifth Street at Weiler Ave.(Lochside Drive), Sidney Open Daily 10 am to 4 pm All Proceeds Of Sales Go To The Artists This Show is sponsored by the Community Arts Council of the Saanich Peninsula. For more information contact: Donna Cottell, cottells@shaw.ca or Heather Corbitt, khcorbitt@gmail.com
Art Work By Charles Elliott
Tunnel Visions and the Midnight Artist by Pene Beavan Horton “Pretty soon they’ll be charging admission,” said the white-haired Burnaby citizen, gazing at the newly decorated walls of the tunnel under the Lougheed Highway. For months, residents of the futuristic sky-sculptured apartments had been averting their eyes from the obscenities sprayed on the grey concrete walls of the tunnel through which they must
By the following morning three more large murals blazed on the tunnel walls and the white-haired gentleman uttered his admiring remark.
about alternative solutions. Vandalism is grim and ugly, like war. I felt the artist would have tied rainbow coloured balloons to tankers in the Persian Gulf … come on, you guys, lighten up, be creative!
Alas, the next day the works of art were gone. A coat of grey paint obscured every vestige of rainbow colour except for faint signs at the top of the tunnel walls where they joined the roof.
More than ever, in this global climate of escalating violence, we need to be charitable and tolerant of each others’ failings. Let’s not take a spray can of grey paint and wipe out obscenities and beauty indiscriminately. We need to keep our options open, keep them flexible, keep them kind.
No more graffiti, thank goodness. But I regretted the murals … one person’s goodhumoured approach to the battle of the graffiti, wiped out by a bureaucratic can of grey paint before we could enjoy our tunnel visions.
In this global climate of escalating violence, we need to be charitable and tolerant of each other's failings pass to reach the local shopping centre. Vandals, wielding spray cans of red, black or blue paint, nightly disfigured the tunnel walls with Nazi swastikas and anti-social phrases. As fast as the obscenities were painted out, more took their place. Residents felt sick, and the power struggle between authorities and vandals spoiled many a morning walk. Then one day, to everyone’s surprise, a new and different splash of colour adorned the tunnel walls. A midnight artist had spray painted a faintly Chagallian mural. He crowned his efforts by painting one arrow that declared: THIS IS ART! And another pointing towards the graffiti: THIS IS VANDALISM! Underneath, like a humorous benediction, he wrote: PAINT AIN’T CHEAP! It had cost him something to strike a blow at ugliness, but you felt that in the interests of serving humanity he didn’t begrudge the outlay. You felt he was saying to the vandals: “Come on, you fellows, lighten up. Put some colour and humour into your lives! Be creative, have fun, make rainbows!” SEASIDE TIMES
PAINT AIN’T CHEAP. Neither is kindness. Real kindness costs time and effort. Maybe, like the Midnight Artist, we can create our own tunnel visions. If we don’t begrudge the outlay, maybe our kindness will paint rainbows over ugliness wherever we come across it?
The Midnight Artist’s idea had possibilities. It was a minor revelation
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island dish
"Pop"- ular! by Jennifer Bowles
Riddle me this: What food can be used as a holiday decoration and as packing material? Answer: Popcorn! Here are a few fascinating facts: “It is said that popcorn originated in Mexico. The oldest ears of corn were found in a bat cave in west central Mexico in 1948. Cachise Indians who date back to 2,500 BC are thought to have grown and eaten corn and it was first introduced to English colonists at the first Thanksgiving feast in Plymouth, Massachusetts. It was brought as a goodwill gift by one of the chief’s brothers. The colonists then thought of eating popcorn with milk and sugar and this was what came to be known as the first breakfast cereal.” So many varieties of this amazing food have popped up over the years, but in my opinion nothing tastes more 24
SEASIDE TIMES
heavenly than that melt-in-your-mouth flavour of the warm salty butter that is generously drizzled over your bucket of movie theatre popcorn. Reaching deep in the bucket you can feel the kernels soften to your touch and your fingers sliding together as you grab a handful and pop it into your mouth … now slide back in your chair as the movie rolls. Well, I think I may have overstepped when I said “butter,” because now it is affectionately referred to as “butter-flavoured topping,” which was likely designed by a food company that will honour the first staff member to come up with the first industrial engine lubricant/movie popcorn topping. Seriously though, popcorn is that one snack that can be as decadent or low fat as you want it to be. I had the opportunity recently to have lunch on the veranda at the Empress Hotel and on the menu was “Empress Honey & Truffle Oil Popcorn.” Yes please! As it arrived I could smell
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the glorious aroma of truffle oil and the hotel’s own honey. I gathered up the kernels and popped them in my mouth and was immediately in love with how well the sweetness of the honey complemented the earthiness of the truffle oil. Talk about spectacular! But it got me thinking … what other toppings could I do? Light? Sweet? Savoury? Decadent? Popcorn is such a versatile vehicle for flavours and perfect any time of the day. Kids love it and if you decide to have a movie night on the couch with your other half, you can really play with topping options depending on your mood. So what popcorn is the best? For me, I find the bagged microwave kind is dead easy for shaking around with your chosen topping –it gets every last kernel coated evenly. Below you will find a variety of choices – some light, some not so light, some a touch adventurous and some flat-out delicious! The next time you’re craving a snack or even entertaining a few friends, don’t forget: this little kernel can pack a huge pop!
Dr David Scott and his caring & knowledgeable team welcome you to their New location at 9773 Fifth St, Sidney BC
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SEASIDE TIMES
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Note: 2-for-1 cruise and international air discounts are considered a single offer. International air does not have to be purchased to get cruise offer. Must request offer EBD at time of booking and pay in full by current expiration date; call for details. Valid on new bookings only as of 6/1/11, subject to availability and may not be combinable with any other offers except Past Guest Travel Credit and ® Referral Rewards Credit. Viking reserves the right to correct errors and to change any and all fares, fees and surcharges at any time. Additional terms and conditions apply. For Passenger Ticket Contract and offer restrictions, contact your travel advisor for complete details. CST#2052644-40
Always on Top!
by Tara Saracuse
If you think about it, roofing may be one of the hardest jobs a person can do. It’s certainly up there with Alaskan crab fishing and coal mining. A typical day on a roof involves unpredictable weather (what’s worse, boiling hot or freezing cold?), heavy lifting, an element of danger and the pressure of knowing that your work will be keeping the family below you safe and warm throughout the seasons. Admiral’s Roofing has been serving the Saanich Peninsula for 35 years. Owned and operated by Paul Pellow (pictured), veteran roofer and native Victorian, this company is a true example of how hard work and solid values can boost a business, as well as its surrounding community. It’s a testament to Paul’s skill and sound business practices that he has employees who have been roofing for him for 20 years. Paul started working on homes when he was a young man, and eventually became an employee of Admiral’s Roofing, a local company founded in 1976. The company was named for the road that the original owner lived on. One November, when Paul was in his late ’20s, the crew was working on a large church on Tolmie Avenue in Victoria. It was a particularly biting November, and they were dealing with the usual culprits of winter roofing: frozen hands and feet, slippery surfaces and high winds. Suddenly, Pellow’s boss turned to him and said: “Sorry Paul, I’m done.” He didn’t mean just done for the day – he’d had enough of the difficult conditions that go hand-in-hand with roofing. “Do you want the company?” he asked. Paul had a young family to support, and he knew his boss had several jobs lined up and a good company name. The next morning, he traded his treasured motorcycle in for a big work truck, and the rest is history. Twenty-five years later, Paul has built Admiral’s Roofing into an Island-wide business with over 30 employees. Since the business is 90% referral, he is committed to hiring experienced roofers who have a good attitude and a strong work ethic. “We’re always on top,” Paul says, laughing. Yes, he’s referring to the catchy radio ads, but also his focus on
customer service. “We do our job. We do what we say we’re going to do, and we do it on time,” he says with pride. He also believes that, as a locally owned and operated company, it’s important to give back to his community. Admiral’s Roofing is proud to support the Sidney Lion’s and Mustard Seed Food Banks, Saanich Peninsula Hospital Foundation, Central Saanich Little League and the YMCA-YWCA of Greater Victoria. If you’re looking at your own roof and wondering if it needs a facelift, Paul suggests calling Admiral’s and getting an opinion. “It’s the age of your roof that matters most,” says Paul. “If it’s over 15 years old, it’s probably time to have us look at it.” He also cautions that curling shingles or finding shingle pieces in your yard are both signs that you need a new roof. An assessment from Admiral’s Roofing is always free. The company offers the gambit of roofing options including cedar shake, cedar shingles, fibreglass asphalt shingles and flat roof torch-on systems. They’ll also take care of any vents, flashing and skylights you might require, as well as aluminum gutters. They carry a full selection of colours and manufacturers, so there is no lack of choices for your home’s unique look. Check out the Admiral’s Roofing website at www.admiralsroofing.com, and be sure to take a peek at their case study on the website, which shows the stages of re-roofing a house. Here’s a toast to hard workers, like Paul Pellow and his crew at Admiral’s Roofing, who ensure our homes keep us dry and warm throughout the winter.
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advertorial
We Love the Smith Manoeuvre
M
by Nathan Black
y name is Nathan Black. I am 38 years old, and I have been a pilot all my adult life. I have been flying for Jazz for 11 years, and my home is in Didsbury, Alberta, north of Calgary where I am based. That’s my wife Shannon in the picture, along with me and our three little girls: Amy, Erin and Nicole. We are your typical one-income Canadian family negotiating the challenges all families face these days, trying to make ends meet while also doing our best to ensure we will have enough to live on when we retire. Managing family income and expenses is a well-worn topic in the cockpits of all those airplanes you see crisscrossing Canada every day. Most Canadians have the same problem at least 12 times a year – the cash seems to run out before the month runs out. The demands on the incomes of Canadians is incessant, with mortgage payments and income tax getting the most attention because of their sheer size as a percentage of our income. It's no surprise that I was all ears in the cockpit when other pilots began talking to me about a technique they were using to pay off their mortgage faster while simultaneously getting free tax deductions from the CRA and building a personal pension plan. The strategy is called The Smith Manoeuvre, and I am told that over 70 pilots and staff of WestJet, Air Canada and Jazz are employing this wonderful technique. I decided to investigate and contacted the head office of The Smith Manoeuvre in Sidney. It's only an hour from Calgary to Sidney, and it's convenient that their office is at the Victoria airport. Fraser Smith, author of the book The Smith Manoeuvre, met with me and Shannon to teach us about the strategy. He was able to give us some projections as to what it would mean to us if we adopted the program. He took the time to discuss the risks involved in investing in real estate and the markets. It was a lot to absorb, but we knew thousands of ordinary Canadians just like us were already using The Smith Manoeuvre, and of course I knew many of the pilots who were recommending the program to others and me. 28
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Shannon and I decided to go back to Sidney for another meeting. This time we took the kids with us as we were short a babysitter. They enjoyed themselves with their toys on the carpet as we went deeper into the operation of the Manoeuvre. Our mortgage was new – it was $192,000 at 4.77% and we were contracted to pay $1,003 per month for the next 29.8 years. Fraser showed us that if we adopted the Manoeuvre, and if the world performed similarly in the future as it has in the past, we would see our mortgage gone and converted in 8.58 years. Today, after 2.5 years on the program, we are on target to complete the payout and conversion of our original mortgage 10 months early – less than eight years instead of 29.8 years. One of the most exciting aspects of doing The Smith Manoeuvre revolves around the tax deductions it generates. Our deductions total about $5,500 per year. This produces a nice tax refund cheque each year, which we ensure we use to reduce the mortgage even faster. The benefit that excites us the most, however, is the Personal Pension Plan that is automatically building for our retirement as each month goes by. After 40 years of contributions to the Canada Pension Plan, a person turning
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65 today can receive a maximum of $960 per month for the rest of their life. After only 2.5 years on The Smith Manoeuvre, Shannon and I have built up a pension pot that could start today to pay us $356 per month. We are expecting this number to increase to over $1,600 per month by the time the mortgage is down to zero and conversion is complete. This number
was zero when we started, and it grows as the months go by because we leave the growth to compound to our benefit. We are overjoyed to be getting ahead in our financial world, instead of running in place on the standard treadmill, which described our condition prior to implementing the Manoeuvre. It also helps that the response to any questions we have is quick, the staff are very friendly and we get several updates during the year on progress in the world in general. If you have a mortgage, take the time to investigate The Smith Manoeuvre just as we did. You will be glad you did. To see reviews by others, visit www.smithman.net. In the meantime, say hello the next time you fly with me on Jazz. I’d love to compare notes with you.
Wow! What a Great Idea DIRTY WALL PROJECT
Nathan Black
We are so fortunate to live in Canada. When we see the extreme poverty in India, we may ask: “How can I make a difference?” While traveling in Mumbai, the answer for Kane Ryan was to start a non-profit. His passion and pioneer spirit created the Dirty Wall Project with a simple mandate: “See a need and fill it.” Kane uses all the money raised by DWP for the people of Saki Naka by paying his own expenses.
Convert your mortgage interest into tax deductions!
nada
Kane Ryan proves that one person can make a difference. Just ask the residents of Saki Naka.
Check out www.dirtywallproject.com for more information and to make a donation.
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Since 2009, Dirty Wall Project has The Smit consid medicine provided free access to doctors and h M er Cana ed for im anoeuvr e dian plem fa entati should b for over 3,000 people at DWP health camps, mortg mily e on b that age o y ev has n the ery a con ir ho This me. venti excit work for 100 locals, construction taneo and o in nal g fin usly ancia co tax ls refun nverts in mortg trategy s funding for a school/community ds, s perio centre im a g h u e o ld of th rtens inter e mo est to clear the rtg amor portfgarbage Mumbai and transformation cof a tizati olio o age and b hoos uilds on f inv ing to estm a free fund and This the fu ents of y dump into a sports and greenfor space. wo our o ture wn for y the w nderful p o u r o r e gram famil althy you . If y. is no These are only a few accomplishments can you t rese mak mone h rved e it y is tax d ave a m o r e r e w d tg quire uctib ill no – not bad for a one man show. d fro le. N age, t inc m r
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smell the coffee
Why Coffee? by Steve Sheppard I thought this month I would address the most commonly asked question in the world and connect it to my favourite topic: “coffee.” If you’re a parent, teacher, boss, doctor or police officer you have heard the question “Why?” in abundance, so “Why Coffee?”
Traditional Appeal
Many people drink coffee every day as part of a morning ritual. Whether you make your coffee at home or buy it from a local shop, you might benefit from taking a few moments to relax with a cup of coffee. Also, many people enjoy the smell of brewing coffee and the taste of a freshly-made cup.
Physical Appeal
Coffee contains a non-addictive substance called caffeine which
greatly increases most people’s physical energy and mental alertness. Some may question the addictive properties of coffee, but I can assure you … if you went off coffee for a couple of weeks your body would adjust, so don’t worry.
Youth Appeal
We worry about our children growing up too fast – we don’t want them watching television shows that are too old for them, drinking alcohol before they reach legal age or doing other adult things. Yet when it comes to coffee, parents are willing to let kids partake in this traditionally adult drink. I think it’s because there aren’t any statistics on the risks of caffeine consumption in kids, or perhaps it’s because there aren’t any hard and
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fast rules about how old you need to be to drink coffee. That doesn’t mean that parents should let their guard down. Coffee’s been called a gateway drug by some critics of childhood consumption. The relationship between caffeine consumption in children and later adult behaviours hasn’t fully been explored, so I would suggest holding off on letting your kids have unlimited access to coffee until their later high school years.
Health Appeal
There is more evidence available all the time that, in moderation, coffee is good for you. The antioxidant properties have shown to be positive: reducing the chance of some cancers, type 2 diabetes, cirrhosis of the liver, Alzheimer’s disease and pain associated with working out … (oy vey!). I’ll have another cup please, just to be sure. Also, I’m a big believer in how coffee makes us feel mentally, so I would add an A+ mental rating to the health benefits of drinking coffee!
Growth Appeal
I question the myth that coffee stunts your growth – I know lots of tall people that drank coffee in high school. So, how you answer “Why” isn’t as important as the fact that you “Do” enjoy a cup with friends whenever possible … Steve out.
Sidney Fine Art Show: Showcasing Excellence
The 2011 Sidney Fine Art Show, one of the largest and most anticipated juried art shows in British Columbia, takes place at Sidney’s Mary Winspear Centre Friday, October 14th through Sunday, October 16th. The Show, along with the Saanich Peninsula Studio Tour the following weekend, “anchor” the Peninsula ArtSea Festival. The 10-day Festival builds on these two popular events to include a full range of other activities that celebrate a broad and diverse combination of artists working in many different disciplines across the Peninsula. Despite this year’s postal disruptions, Show entries reached the limit of 1,250, representing the work of more than 530 artists. Over two days in September, jurors Don Farrell, Mary Reid and Peter Shostak will, first individually then collectively, review and evaluate all the entered work. They will select approximately 375 pieces to be included in the Show, based on excellence, creativity, originality and technical achievement, with an emphasis on artistic accomplishment.
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The Show opens October 13th with a preview reception for sponsors and patrons, who will have the first opportunity to view and purchase the art, and is then open to the public from 9 a.m. to 9 p.m. October 14th and 15th, and 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. October 16th. There will be artist demonstrations every day. Saturday from 7 to 9 p.m. is “Meet the Artists” night.
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The Show, which is not for profit and run totally by volunteers (more than 300 of them who work over 4,000 hours collectively) continues to be especially important to the local art community. Artists receive 80% of their sales revenue, with any surplus from the Show going directly back to the Community Arts Council of the Saanich Peninsula (CACSP). With continuing pressure on arts funding, the Show’s contribution enables the CACSP to continue to fulfill its mandate that includes operating the Tulista Arts Centre, offering programs such as the summer children’s and seniors’ art classes, the First Nations and Métis Show and the Artisans Gift Gallery and providing grants to member groups. The Sidney Fine Art Show provides a wonderful showcase of excellent art – don’t miss the opportunity to see and purchase diverse and exciting work. Consider becoming a patron so as not to miss out on your favourite pieces, and in doing so, support your local arts community. For more information, visit www.sidneyfineartshow.com or call 250-656-7412.
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Treasure From the Deeps by Wendy Hacking
H
ands up! Who among you has decided that THIS is the year you are going to clean out your basement/storage locker/garage? My hand is up and my back is out. Yes, this was my year to make order out of the mystery boxes, groaning shelves and spider-webbed dark corners filled to overflowing with too much put-it-in-thebasement stuff. I donned rubber gloves, descended to the dreaded basement and made four signs: Recycle, Thrift Shop, Burn and Landfill. I will admit to making a fifth sign: Re-Gift. (Of course, no gifts from anyone reading this article found its way into any of these piles.) My husband and I, both of a certain age, are recently married with previous lives, families and domiciles. We joined our hands in marriage and placed the detritus of our lives into one basement. It was with trepidation that I approached my task, fearing I would jog memories of lives lived and homes owned. Would I unearth old love letters? Photos of favourite relatives now long deceased? My apprehension remained until I opened one packing box of my husband’s and desiccated mouse poop rolled out. I queried my husband about this … matter. Our basement is an odd one – full height, brightly lit with lots of space but nary a window nor door for outside access. It is hard for US to get into it let alone a rodent. My husband ‘fessed up. The box in question had been packed in London, stored in Toronto, moved to Edmonton and finally came to rest in our
basement – never having been opened or unpacked in all its journeys. We had mouse poop from England!
cate hand-painted, miniature porcelain plates each signed on the back by my great-great-grandmother.
I donned a respirator to complement my rubber gloves, anticipating I might come upon a wee carcass as I hefted and sorted boxes. But, rather than dead mice, what I gleefully uncovered were some long-forgotten, wonderful treasures. Together with that aforementioned import from London, my husband had stowed a solid wood workbench he had purchased from Harrods. Crafted with mortise and tenon joints and exquisite detailing, it was a work of art. In another box, carefully wrapped in now-crumbling tissue and yellowed cloth, were deli-
The most astounding find was my husband’s head! Actually, a bust of his head, cast in bronze. After my heart rate returned to normal I peered at the bust and could not figure out what was different about this head from my husband’s real one. I puzzled for a while and then carried his head upstairs and placed it in front of my husband. He laughed and I realized that I have never known him without the beard he now wears, which he didn’t sport when the bust was cast. My husband’s head became the foundation for my sixth pile: Keep! A few of our sAtisfied clients:
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Back to School Tips: Great Snacks & Lunches by Dianne Connerly
Now that the kids are back in school, it’s time to get creative with those brown-bag lunches. Kids who carry their own lunch not only control what they eat, they also save time and money by bringing their own lunch rather than eating out. The key is to keep from falling into a rut when packing brown-bag lunches and snacks. Variety is the spice of lunch!
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Breads come in so many shapes and sizes – loaves, buns, muffins, biscuits, pitas, bagels – and grains/flavours: white, whole wheat, rye, cinnamon, bran, onion and others. Fillings for sandwiches are limited only by your imagination and the amount of time you wish to spend preparing the lunch. Possibilities include flaked waterpacked tuna, chopped cooked or raw vegetables, chopped cooked lean meat or poultry and many others. Fruits and vegetables offer delicious taste, colour, nutrition and texture variety. For best results, keep sliced vegetables on ice in a cold-pack container until lunchtime. Soups, stews and what-have-yous not only make good use of last night’s supper leftovers but seem like a special treat when away from home. To keep them hot, use a preheated vacuum bottle (fill with clean hot water, let stand for a minute, empty it, then immediately fill with hot food). Consider adding any of the following to a sandwich: lettuce leaves, sliced tomatoes, alfalfa sprouts, diced green pepper, shredded carrots or sliced onion. Pack these additions separately so they don’t make the sandwich soggy.
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Cold foods can add even more interest to lunchtime fare. These include low-fat yogurt, cottage cheese, fresh fruit, salad made with rice or tuna or vegetables, and pasta salad. Use a vacuum bottle for cold foods, or add an ice pack or frozen gel pack to the lunch container. Smart brown-baggers also help themselves to good health when hunger strikes between meals. It’s easy if their lunch bag includes snacks like: graham crackers, ginger snaps, pretzels, crisp breads, plain popcorn, small slices of low-fat cheese, grapes or cherries. Dianne Connerly is with TOPS, a nonprofit, affordable weight-loss support and wellness education organization. If your youngster needs a little extra help keeping his or her weight in line, consider TOPS. To find a local chapter call 250-743-1851, 1-800-932-8677 or visit www.tops.org.
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Kingcome Inlet: After the Flood by Editor’s note: In the spring, we spoke about media to a class at Bayside Middle School. The students were given an assignment to submit stories they thought would be a good fit for Seaside Times. Sophia’s article is one of two chosen for publication.
Sophia Speier
Upon return to her village, Gloria Nicolson sat in the motorboat, surveying the wreckage of her house and village. Her home now had no stairs, and it had shifted on its base. The village was littered with garbage and branches. Inside the houses, mold crawled up the walls and parts of the floor were soggy and sagged. Everything on the ground had been swept away, and the damage caused was devastating. The flood in beautiful, remote Kingcome Inlet began on September 25th, 2010. The waters rose quickly. Soon, it was at people’s steps and they had to move to the school: the highest point in the village. People crowded inside, with only the clothes on their backs. When the river continued to rise, seeping into houses, the majority of the residents were helicoptered out and went to stay with friends and family in Alert Bay. The next day the river receded, leaving the remaining people to inspect the damage. The flooding was caused by the glacier that feeds the river combined with heavy rainfall and high tides. There have been several floods before, but none as bad as this. One theory is that global warming is melting the glacier and causing floods to worsen. It's now one year after the flood, and most of the houses are somewhat livable. My grandma’s (Gloria Nicolson’s) house is one. Many walls had to be ripped out and wet insulation had to be replaced. A new toilet needed to be installed and new flooring was necessary. To be prepared for another flood, the house was raised, as were all the village’s homes. Many other houses are in the same condition as my
grandma’s, or even worse. While she was able to move back into her home six months after the flood, many residents were not.
Although the help from various rescue teams (such as the Mennonites) has been tremendous, lots of work is still needed to get the houses and village back to normal. Adding to the problem is that only motorboats can make it up the Inlet, making it very difficult to get equipment and supplies to Kingcome. Of course money is needed too: the Provincial Emergency Plan only pays for about 80% of eligible costs, and not all costs are eligible. Indian Affairs covered special projects such as the house raising but, in many cases, the funding fell short. However, thanks to a generous donation from Nickel Bros, the raising of the church was made possible and it is being rebuilt. There have been several fundraisers for Kingcome. About $150,000 has been raised but much more is needed. You can donate at the Royal Bank, branch number 00720, account number 1278969, or mail a check to Dzawada’enuxw Band Office, General Delivery, Kingcome Inlet, B.C., V0N 2B0. On YouTube there are several videos of the damage done to Kingcome Inlet. Please donate to help the people of Kingcome Inlet bring the village back to its beautiful original state.
Music for the Bodine Family Hall The Sidney and North Saanich Memorial Park Society, the charitable organization that operates the Mary Winspear Community Cultural Centre, is looking for a piano donation. The Bodine Family Hall sits in silence and requires an in-house piano to make the hall come alive with music and entertainment. If you would like to donate a full size piano to the Mary Winspear Community Cultural Centre, please contact 250-656-0275 to make delivery arrangements.
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Tanzanian Diary – Culture Shock and the Kindness of Strangers I suffered a bout of culture shock in there and at Sam’s a while later. by Derek Peach Tanzania and listed for friends at home the many things I missed. I wailed about dust and perverse We had been invited to a supper at Sam Mshawa’s shower heads and even the absence of scotch and the CBC. home, a 30-minute, rut-punctuated bounce from Since then, I have taught some classes and sung some Katesh. Sam is the only CHES boy, having earned a songs at the new Canadian Harambe Education Society sponsorship by making himself so indispensable in (CHES) girls’ dormitory and am back ready to consume my various projects that it just seemed a logical step. weight in dust and wash it down with Konyagi, a national potion which makes Drano taste like mothers’ milk. Formerly a Barabaig boy tending the family herds, now he is a teacher with a graduate degree in math and Once told we were Canadians, CHES girls asked if physics, upgrading his qualifications to teach university we knew their sponsor, or would we please find them preparation classes. His wife, Paulina, is a primary school and tell them how much they were loved and thanked teacher and they have three small children. He cycles for the incredible gift of sponsorship. These girls knew 40 miles a day to earn tutoring money to supplement they would have had a much different life without the Paulina’s salary. Imagine the dedication necessary education that someone’s kindness made possible. It to go from being a kid chasing cows to an education was a tearful leave-taking from their hostel yesterday. grad student with an advanced science degree. So, That’s probably where the culture shock dissolved; when he invited us, my wife Beverly and I taxied over 36
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after we had said goodbye to the girls at the hostel.
Exquisite
Sam and Paulina live on the grounds of Nangwa Primary School in a three-room teacherage without electricity or running water. He was waiting at the cut-off from the highway in a suit and tie ensemble Don Cherry would have envied but that certainly made him easy to spot in the African night. His kids were also dressed up in their best clothes and even the toddler, Godliva, came solemnly forward to shake hands. Beverly hugs everyone short of professed axe-murderers, so those formalities didn’t last long, especially with tykes who could win your heart so easily. Inside we sat on a couch in the main room lit by a coal-oil lantern, and chatted about the plans for the new house, teaching and raising kids, and Sam got us some soda pop while the boys sat and watched and Godliva generally made herself irresistible. Paulina had prepared a feast and had kept it warm for us as well as having a huge salad and a platter of sliced fruit. Although we had eaten a large noon meal, after Sam poured the water for us to wash our hands we tucked in to do justice to their generosity. Two hours later, we hugged and headed back to our lodging.
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Our fellow safariers had arrived days earlier in Land Rovers stacked high with luggage and school supplies. They had all been out distributing things to local schools and visiting some of their sponsored girls. That experience would change them forever as it did us. A face in a photograph becomes a young woman standing in front of you – your “child” for the duration of her high school years and forever after.
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British Columbia’s Deep Ocean Explorers by Tina Kelly More than 90% of the ocean’s volume has yet to be explored. It is sometimes said there is more known about outer space than there is about the deep sea. Two Salish Sea residents have dedicated their lives and their work in an effort to change this statistic. Vancouver born, raised and educated Dr. Phil Nuytten is a pioneer in the diving industry. At just 17, Phil opened his first dive business. Jump ahead half a century and what started as a business for recreational divers has evolved into today’s Nuytco Research – a world leader in developing innovative and advanced technology for deep sea exploration. The average recreational scuba diver explores a depth of 10 to 30 metres. If a diver knows Phil Nuytten, the depth to which they can dive exceeds 900 metres. At North Vancouver’s Nuytco Research, Phil and his small group of highly-skilled employees build submersibles, remote operated vehicles and atmospheric suits, known as Exosuits and NEWTSUITS. These state-of-the-art inventions are much sought after by the world’s top scientists as well as moviemakers, including James Cameron. Cameron hired Phil’s expertise to film The Abyss, Titanic and a yet-to-be released feature film. While Phil is a master at engineering deep diving technology, Dr. Verena Tunnicliffe, a professor at the University of Victoria, is a master at applying that technology to conduct important research. As Canada’s research chair in Deep Ocean Research and the director of VENUS, the Victoria Experimental Network Under the Sea, Dr. Tunnicliffe is respected worldwide for conducting research in some of the most inhospitable areas of the ocean – areas of anoxia or low oxygen, extreme cold, complete darkness and the extreme heat surrounding hydrothermal vents and subsea volcanoes.
One of the many highlights of her career came in 1983 with the discovery of hydrothermal vents in British Columbia waters. Dr. Tunnicliffe has completed 129 dives using manned submersibles and, along the way, discovered more than 75 new species. Through her years of exploration, she has witnessed significant changes in the ocean that she loves and is vividly aware that these changes are because of us. As a result, Dr. Tunnicliffe recognizes the importance of linking marine science, and her comprehension of it, with the general public. With outreach, public education and showcasing her work in the media, she attempts to help the public understand the environment they live in. “As our requirements as a species escalate, we need to ensure the ocean environment is well cared for,” stresses Dr. Tunnicliffe. She further notes: “If we know how the world works and our influence upon it, we will develop a much better way of making stewardship decisions.” Technological advances enhance the ability for her to share what she sees 2,000 metres below the surface. Specialized remote – and unmanned – systems can now stream images live over the Internet and HD film can capture clearer images. To explore live and archived footage, visit www.venus.uvic.ca. With creative engineers and passionate scientists willing to be the “astronauts of the sea,” future generations will know exactly what is in that remaining 90% and why we should care about it. Dr. Phil Nuytten will speak at the Shaw Ocean Discovery Centre’s Floating Ideas Lecture Series on September 29th at 7 p.m. Dr. Verena Tunnicliffe will speak about her deep sea research on October 26th at 7 p.m. Regular admission applies; annual passes accepted. Tina Kelly is an ocean advocate at the Shaw Ocean Discovery Centre.
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Animal Comfort in the Hot and Dry by Shelley Breadner, DVM Ahhh … summer! Is it really winding down? The seasons tell us so, as the grasses are dry and the garden is producing. We often hear of safety for our pets in the heat, and this is part of comfort. How do we make our pets comfortable in the “dog days” of summer? Although our "weatherwit," Steve Sakiyama, tells us that forecasts for September indicate a slight bias toward cooler and drier than normal, it's important to remember that animals react to heat differently than we do, so what may feel like cooler fall temperatures to us can still be too much for our treasured companions.
Dogs use water to help cool their tongues, in addition to panting. They also dehydrate with panting, and need water to replace moisture loss. Many dogs will immerse themselves in a pond or paddling pool of water to cool off. Teach them how to use this on hot days to find sweet relief from the heat! Speargrass is at its peak for the season. Grass seeds can get embedded in the fur, between toes, in ears, under eyelids and in armpits and flanks. Avoiding heavy tall grass is ideal. If not possible, check your pet at the end of each day’s adventures!
Hot cars are off the list for our pets. Do not leave your pet in a vehicle in the sun. They aren't able to cool themselves when the inside of the car is hot, even when you park in the shade. Better to leave them at home if you're running errands and not able to take them out of the car with you.
Once again, fleas are hopping with excitement in this warm weather. They sure can cause a lot of itching! Heartworm is also lurking in certain geographic areas. Keep up with parasite control through the season. It is not too late to check in with your veterinarian as to what is safest and most effective for your pet.
Shade is of great benefit at home and on walks. As long as your pet can get out of the sun, they can cope well on hot days. Avoid walking your dog in the heat of the day. Long runs in the sun can result in burned pads and heatstroke if your dog cannot cool off frequently in water.
Barbecues are fun to share with friends and family. If you bring your pet along, watch out for those hot coals on pooch pads. In addition, burgers and hot dogs on the grill are tempting for our pets, but can result in burns to the mouth if they grab them!
White-faced cats and dogs with white or pink noses are susceptible to sunburn. They can benefit from unscented sunscreen on their ear tips and unpigmented noses.
Not every vacation includes our family pet. Travel and tourist events are not always pet friendly. Most boarding centres are geared up for summer and autumn guests, so take advantage of their services to keep your pet safe when you are away. Make the warm seasons a fun place to be with your pet, be it on the back patio or off on an extended adventure together.
Water is essential!!! Although cats are able to concentrate their urine and maintain hydration in arid conditions, they do better with adequate water intake, just like us. Circulating water fountains are a great way to encourage them to drink more.
More information can be found at www.breadnervet.com.
Sidney ’s Pet Centre & Aquatics For Everything Your Pet Needs
250 -656-3314
#4-9769 Fifth St., Sidney www. sidneypetcentre.com www.seasidetimes.ca
september 2011
41
A Boarding Kennel that loves your pets as much as you do.
Caring for your pet - Body, Mind and Spirit
• 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
Sidney Location 2353 Bevan Avenue 250-656-6977
Offering a full line of premium pet food and supplies for your dog, cat and small animals.
Proudly serving Sidney for over 9 years! www.bosleys.com Seaside ad revised.pdf
4/15/11
2:11:01 PM
IslandBlue’s Sidney Art Store
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Excited to be part of the Art Community of the Saanich Peninsula and Gulf Islands.
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2918 Lamont Road, Saanichton 250-652-2301 www.puppylove.ca • info@puppylove.ca Just minutes from Victoria Airport & BC Ferries Terminal
Orr’s Family Butchers
Established 1979
Voted Best Butcher Shop, Best Sausages on Vancouver Island
Try our local Metchosin Lamb from Parry Bay Sheep Farm Raised by John & Lorraine Buchanan www.orrsbutchers.com
Open Mon - Fri 9:30-5:30 Saturdays 9-4 West Saanich & Wallace Trafalgar Square, Brentwood Bay
Quadra & McKenzie 4011 Quadra St., Victoria
250-652-3751
250-590-8067
Island Blue Print Co. Ltd. Downtown: 905 Fort Street, Victoria, BC V8V 3K3 Tel: 250.385.9786 Sidney: 2411 Beacon Avenue, Sidney, BC V8L 1X5 Tel: 250.656.1233 Website: www.islandblue.com Toll Free: 1.800.661.3332
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The Progress of the Little Woman by Muriel Jarvis Ackinclose An old cutting from a Cowichan newspaper started me thinking the other day. When I was a young married woman, would I have been able to milk nine cows by hand before breakfast and again at night? No way! But such was the practice of someone’s great grandmother as recorded in a section devoted to the genealogical roots of several ladies in the Cowichan area. It was titled “Daughters of the Pioneers.” I was especially interested because I knew – or knew of – several of the writers. The articles related to the early lives of their female forebearers amidst a wilderness of forest, rivers and lakes, largely uninhabited except for the local First Nations people. It really had me comparing today’s women to those of our ancestor’s era. The great grandmother who milked her cows morning and night had four children and that number grew to 11 over the ensuing years. Apart from caring for her husband and family, she cooked all their meals, sewed and made all their clothes, looked after the poultry and a vegetable garden and churned butter to sell. To top it off, this woman had to devote one day a week to taking her butter and eggs by horse and cart to Maple Bay to be shipped by boat to Victoria. While there she picked up supplies ordered the week before. Where oh where did she get the energy? Just listing her jobs tires me out! I could never have coped with that life when I was young. I was far too busy (I thought) taking care of my two mischievous boys, dealing with a leaky icebox, doing a little hairdressing on the side and otherwise leading a happy life socializing with family and friends. Another pioneer lady shamed me by making all her linens and children’s clothing, even underwear and night clothes for her husband and herself, from bleached sugar and flour sacks. She did all her washing by hand with a washboard and tub and made her own soap from lye and saved fat she skimmed
off the meat. I tried that once, but my leaky icebox threatened to explode – as well as leak – with its overload of pots full of drippings and I gave up before I could get a bonfire lit with a large cauldron over it to make my soap. I learned from one of these sturdy, innovative pioneer ladies that a dried chicken or duck wing made the most effective duster. Her great granddaughter still used this method in keeping her house shining and bright. I never did like dusting; usually putting it off until company is due. Maybe dusting would have been more enjoyable if I had attacked it with a wing and a prayer! Now my grandchildren are living a far different life to mine. The father as well as the mother changes baby’s diapers, cooks the dinner and can clean the house. They’re both involved in outside activites – mostly sports in our
family’s case – and both work outside the home. They are very concerned with fitness. Mother goes to Curves or some other fitness centre and jogs and bicycles in spandex outfits. She keeps her children involved in sports or activities of their choice and tries to guard them from becoming one of Canada’s record number of obese children in this age of fast and junk food. At home, the modern mother pushes buttons on the dishwasher, the microwave, the washing machine, dryer, vacuum and range, and with a little innovation looks after all the family’s needs. We’ve come a long way, baby! Those buttons are a far cry from squeezing cow’s udders and tickling the furniture with a chicken wing. As for my comparison: for sheer grit, strength and dedication, I’ll willingly let the pioneers have it.
Marmalade Tart Boutique
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Fun, Flirty, Fabulous Fashion!
We’ve Moved! Come visit us at 102-2506 Beacon (next to Salon J) Monday - Saturday 10-530 • Sundays & Holidays 1130-5 778-426-3356 • www.marmaladetart.com www.seasidetimes.ca
september 2011
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Brentwood Bay Says Hi to Thai at Seahorses Café by Arlene Antonik few months ago, owner Sandi Harte welcomed Thai chef, Sirisret Sutthasil, to Seahorses Café, transforming the restaurant in ways that even she had not envisioned. “Our dinner menu now features appetizers such as shrimp cakes and chicken satay,” Sandi (pictured) told me during a recent visit. “For the main course, we have curried dishes like matsaman and panang, prepared with peanut sauce and lime leaves. We are encouraging our guests to enjoy the Thai menu items and spice things up a bit!” As we chatted, Austin (Sirisret’s western name) magically appeared with spring rolls and Thai pancakes (marinated prawns, wrapped and deep fried) beautifully presented with little bowls of sweet chili sauce. Delicious!
Austin was born in Bangkok, earned a degree in Food and Nutrition, and worked as a chef in Vancouver for two years before bringing his lifelong passion for food to the Saanich Peninsula. He spends many of his offhours exploring Chinatown and local farmers’ markets for fresh produce and flavourful ingredients like ginger, cilantro, basil, lime leaves and lemongrass. “For lunch we have spring rolls, Thai salad, barbecue pork (khao moo dang), and smoked chicken (khao mun gai) along with Austin’s surprise specials,” Sandi continued. “There’s no skipping dessert with deep-fried bananas and mango tapioca on the menu!” Austin has been teaching fellow cook, Carl Mallany, how to prepare Thai dishes and he is quickly becoming an expert himself. A
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For information on Elder College membership ($15/year) and program details, please visit www.peninsulaeldercollege.ca or call 250.656.7271. 44
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Stelly’s Secondary School graduate, Carl has been at Seahorses for the past two years and is enthusiastic about the changes at the restaurant. Sandi and staff host benefit dinners from time to time in support of environmental and local causes and the next one will be held on the evening of October 1st. Carl has been growing his lustrous, curly brown hair for eight years and is prepared to sacrifice his tresses in support of the B.C. Cancer Society. There will be food, entertainment and a silent auction culminating with Carl’s head shave. They’re hoping for lots of community support – call 250544-1565 for more information. The restaurant is available for special celebrations such as anniversary, birthday and Christmas parties, although most Fridays are set aside for Open Mic Nights. Local performers are encouraged to sing and bring their instruments along for a fun evening on the deck in the summer or inside by the cozy gas fireplace in the winter. Drawing on over 30 years in the
Managing the World’s Most iMportant investMents:
hospitality industry, Sandi has created a casual, nautical atmosphere at Seahorses Café which appeals to locals and out-of-towners alike.
yours!
For those needing a place to stay or berth their boat, there are two cabins and a marina (which Sandi also manages) adjacent to the café.
Mesure à pren
In this business…Veuillez vérifier vo
With the restaurant opening at 11 a.m. seven days a week, Sandi leads a busy life. She is grateful for her highly-skilled crew, especially Linda Picot, and her son, Sean, who ably assist her in keeping everything organized and shipshape.
VOICI L’ÉPREUVE
susan dafoe
“We want people to feel this Admiral´s is a place to meet Roofing ATTN: Pellow neighbours and friends and enjoy ourPaul fabulous food 5417 WEST SAANICH RD and picturesque view of the Saanich Inlet,” said. VICTORIA BCSandi V9E1J9 “I almost called the restaurantCANADA ‘Your Place,’ because that’s how I want people to feel about coming here.”
Experience Matters!
investMent advisor susan.dafoe@nbf.ca
Nom de l’entre Numéro(s) de t Adresse Site Web
Si vous approuvez signature au bas d votre conseiller m Admiral´s Ro Pour des correctio ATTN: Paul P avec votre conseil
5417 WEST S VICTORIA BC CANADA
James David James David Seahorses Café is perched alongside the seashore fax 1 866 725 fax 1 866 725−6046 ; toll 1 877 478−4593 next to the Mill Bay ferry terminal in Brentwood #205, 2537 Beacon Avenue, Sidney 14661997AB Bay. Walk down the stairs, over14661997AB the gangplank, 250.657.2224 1.866.678.2200 choose your table on the deck and feel at home. 14661997AB / TD / 3UWWP / E / 2506521818 / Y / / P / 3 / N / / E / ADI Page 1 of14661997AB 1 *14661997AB*
*14661997AB*
•
When you see Austin, make him feel/at homeDavid too by/ 1−667038233National Bank Financial is an indirect wholly-owned subsidiary of National Bank of HB01 James Canada which is a public company listed on the Toronto Stock Exchange (NA: TSX). greeting him with “sawatdee” in your best Thai! Admiral´s Roofing / 100818
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Reliable • Responsible • Professional • Guaranteed
Fully Insured Reroofing New Construction Repairs Torch on Systems Skylights Fiberglass Shingles Cedar Shakes and Shingles Victoria: 1856 Quadra St (250) 384 - 8000
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www.admiralsroofing.com • info@admiralsroofing.com #9 - 6782 Veyaness Rd, Saanichton BC
(250) 656 - 6228 www.admiralsroofing.com
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september 2011
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How to feel young again: Tip No 37 - breathe it all in. Get a (SOCIAL) life — experts agree that being social and active has many physical and emotional health benefits. Get your dose here.
C.J. (Kip) Wilson laW offiCe Corporate Real Estate Wills & Estates
Enjoy Independent and Assisted Living options in beautifully appointed studio, one or two bedroom suites.
38+ years of experience 2300 Henry Ave. Sidney, BC | norgarden.com | 250.656.8822 L O C A L LY O W N E D & O P E R AT E D
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Welcome
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Beautiful waterfront location on the Saanich Peninsula • Pet and child friendly Daily, weekly and monthly rates • Long-term parking available Ask about our island resident rates
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
46
SEASIDE TIMES
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gr ey matters
Memories More than a decade ago, Verity Sweeny Purdy (pictured) gave us a peek into her fascinating life in her book The Luckiest Girl in the World (Heritage House). Sent to London from Vancouver at age 11 to study ballet, she met the “toffeenosed bunch of snobs” who influenced her youth, and eccentric Aunt Doffie with whom she lived in bohemian Chelsea digs. But it seems that her lavish late-night parties with guests including Noel Coward may have led to Doffie’s cash flow problems. Then she and her young charge walked everywhere instead of taking taxis, and the “family pearls” Doffie habitually wore disappeared to the pawn shop. One January morning in 1936, donning her necklace, she told Verity they were to see King George V’s lyingin-state. “We got a taxi as far as the taxi could go – to the end of the queue. Then Doffie and I walked and stood, walked and stood for six hours,” recalls the gracious white-haired artist and writer at her home in Comox. “As I waited in the line-up to the monarch’s catafalque, I realized suddenly that this was a solemn and important occasion. I prayed for the king to take care of my brother, who’d died not long before.” Doffie then sent Verity to stay with relatives in the country, during which time the king’s funeral procession would take place. Determined not to miss it, Verity and her 14-year-old cousin snuck out early in the morning, their pockets stuffed with apples and cookies. They told no one they planned to catch a train to London, bus to Marble Arch, and hoof it to Hyde Park where they figured they’d get the best view hanging on to the iron railings with their feet on the cement base. In front of them was a large empty roped-off area. Behind them the crowd grew denser and denser as the hours passed. The girls ate their snacks and watched with horror as St. John’s ambulance personnel filled the vacant spot on the sidewalk with stretchers containing the sick and injured. A shouted order brought a company of soldiers to attention. Boots thudded, rifles clanked, a pipe band played a lament and distant drums came closer. “They’re coming, they’re coming,” people muttered until a hush fell over the tightly packed crowd. “You could hear the sound of the horses’ hooves and their harnesses jangling. You could hear marching feet. I thought I caught a glimpse of shiny helmets – but that was all.” Verity laughs at the memory of not seeing more.
by Trysh Ashby-Rolls “Then it was all over.” Police told the crowd to move. People jostled, pushed and screamed in chaotic abandon until someone fell. Police tried to direct things and get the crowd out of the park gates in an orderly manner. Verity, swept up in the hurly burly, squashed in among the pressing throng, lost sight of her friend. “It was the better part of an hour before the crowd thinned out,” she says. “I made my way to the station where miraculously I found my friend. We caught the train back to the country where, of course, a tongue-lashing awaited us.” The next royal occasion was King George VI’s coronation. Having learned by their mistakes, the authorities erected gates around central London, which they closed to the public after 10 p.m. Aunt Doffie had friends living inside the gated area, which they reached before the witching hour – by taxi. Next morning, they took their seats along the Mall … But that is another memory from Verity Sweeny Purdy’s precious store for another time.
Home Creation and Reinvention
tidmangroup.com 250.652.1101
www.seasidetimes.ca
PREPARED FOR: TIDMAN CONSTRUCTION september 2011 PUBLICATION: SEASIDE TIMES
47
The Latch
the latch inn & restaurant • sidney Discover a British Columbia Heritage Home
Offering superb continental cuisine with an Italian flair. The casually elegant, cosy dining rooms offer a perfect setting for a romantic dinner. Open Tuesday through Sunday for dinner (group lunches by request). Ask about our special packages.
2328 Harbour Road, Sidney, BC TEL: 250.656.4015 • info@latchinn.ca • www.latchinn.ca
Pizza and a
Free 10” home-made pepperoni pizza with a pitcher of craft beer every day from 3-6 pm
Pitcher 15
95
only
202-9800 McDonald Pk Road, North Saanich 250.665.7353
Zanzibar
GLOBAL FLAVOURS O LOCAL TASTES Reservations Recommended 1164 Stelly’s Cross Road Brentwood Bay, BC 250.652.1228
PIER
BISTRO
IE B IS O PP IE RR B IS TT RR O
RESTAURANT
Casual, Waterfront Dining With Panoramic Ocean Views Award-Winning Chowder, Famous Fish & Chips and Gourmet Salads
R U R EE SS TT AA U RR AA NN TT
S U N T EE TT A U R AA N T Serving breakfast, lunch &Sdinner atA the end of R Beacon Pier • 250-655-4995
Good Fortune Restaurant Fully Licensed • Dine In
250-656-5112 9838 3rd St, Sidney 48
SEASIDE TIMES
Take Out • Free Delivery
www.seasidetimes.ca
Lunch Tues - Fri 11-2 Dinner Tues - Sun 4-10
Where Friends & Stories Meet A 1912 heritage building nestled in the Heart of the Prospect Lake Community …
TIA’S Heritage Café Co.
Open 7 days a week 8 - 4 5303 West Saanich Rd, Victoria 250-590-4912• solfarms@hotmail.com 8 7 9 1 2 3 5 4 6
2 1 6 4 9 5 3 7 8
3 4 5 8 7 6 9 1 2
4 2 8 9 1 7 6 5 3
Puzzle by websudoku.com
1 6 3 2 5 4 7 8 9
5 9 7 6 3 8 1 2 4
6 5 2 7 8 9 4 3 1
7 8 4 3 6 1 2 9 5
9 3 1 5 4 2 8 6 7
4 5 7 8 9 1 3 2 6
2 8 6 4 5 3 1 9 7
3 9 1 7 2 6 5 8 4
1 4 5 6 8 9 7 3 2
Puzzle by websudoku.com
8 6 2 1 3 7 9 4 5
7 3 9 5 4 2 8 6 1
5 2 8 9 7 4 6 1 3
6 7 3 2 1 8 4 5 9
9 1 4 3 6 5 2 7 8
Middle of the Road
Exceedingly Evil
Sudoku Solutions
It’s our hospital. When a parent or spouse, close friend or relative has received exceptional care at the Saanich Peninsula Hospital, leaving a legacy gift helps ensure that staff can continue to provide the same outstanding level of care to other patients into the future.
Planned giving… When you want to do more for an organization you believe in and trust. For more information, please call Donna Randall at 250-652-7531. All donations, whether annual, monthly, periodically, or a legacy gift planned for in your will, are deeply appreciated. www.sphf.ca
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september 2011
49
What’s Happening – September 2011
Saturdays till Oct. 8
40 different glass artists participating from across the country, displays will be continually changing as new works arrive.
Saanich Fairgrounds, 9 a.m. - 1 p.m. 250-216-0521, www.peninsulacountrymarket.ca
September 10
Peninsula Country Market
Twenty years of everything fresh! This market offers everything from farm-fresh organic fruits and vegetables, locally made jams and jellies, honey and freshly roasted coffee beans to homemade bread, assorted meats and fish and arts and crafts. The new Celebrity Chef Series cooking demonstrations will feature one of 18 well-known local chefs each week who will walk the audience through the preparation of a delicious dish made with local ingredients. Free admission, free parking and live music.
Till October 11
Deep Dive! Deep Discovery! Shaw Ocean Discovery Centre, Sidney, 10-5 p.m. daily 250-665-7511, www.oceandiscovery.ca A special exhibit featuring the human quest to explore the deep ocean. From ancient harvesting tools used by local First Nations people to leading edge deep ocean technologies, the exhibit showcases the evolution of humankind’s bold efforts to explore the alien world beneath the surface. Regular admission rates apply; the exhibit is free to annual pass holders.
Saturdays till October 29
North Saanich Farm Market St. John's United Church Annex, 10990 West Saanich Rd., 9:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m. www.northsaanichfarmmarket.ca Seasonal produce, locally grown mushrooms, eggs, baking, plants, crafts. Free entertainment every week. Drop in and meet your neighbours.
September 1 - 30 15th Annual Canadian Glass Show
West End Gallery 1203 Broad Street, Victoria Mon-Fri 10-5:30, Saturday 10-5, Sunday 11-4 250-388-0009, www.westendgalleryltd.com The Annual Canadian Glass Show presents the latest in contemporary Canadian glass. The only collection of its kind, this everchanging exhibition features some of Canada's most accomplished glass artists, who have distinguished themselves and West End Gallery with their high calibre of work. With over
Forest Tea Party (Guided Walk – 12 yrs+) Francis/King Regional Park (Saanich), 1 - 3 p.m. 250-478-3344, crdparks@crd.bc.ca www.crd.bc.ca/parks You don’t have to take a trip to England to find a great cup of tea! The forests around Victoria are full of plants that make delicious teas year ’round. Join a CRD Regional Parks’ naturalist for an interpretive tea tasting featuring some of our local plants. A short guided walk to see some of the plants growing in their native habitat will precede the tea–sampling. $7/ person + HST. Pre–registration required before September 9th – space is limited. Wheelchair accessible.
September 18 Vancouver Island Feast of Fields
Marley Farm, 1831D Mt. Newton X Rd. Saanichton, 1 - 5 p.m. 1-888-730-0452 www.feastoffields.com A gourmet wandering harvest festival and FarmFolk CityFolk's annual fundraising event. With a wine glass and linen napkin in hand, you can taste the very best of B.C. from chefs, vintners, brewers, farmers, fishers, ranchers and food artisans from across the province – some think of it as a 40-course meal paired with wine and beer! Feast of Fields highlights the connections between producer and chef, field and table and farm folks and city folks. A gastronomic journey towards a sustainable, local food system. Tickets $85 adults, $15 children 12 and under, free for children six and under.
September 19
September 17
Peninsula Garden Club Fall Plant Sale
Companions of the Quaich Dinner & Tasting
Mary Winspear Centre, Sidney 9 - 11 a.m.
Sidney Pier Hotel & Spa, 7 p.m. 250-658-1109 wuhrer@shaw.ca
Perennials to produce! Everyone welcome!
September 17 Sunday Serenade The Moxon Trio
St. Mary's Anglican Church 1973 Cultra Ave., Saanichton, 2:30 p.m. 250-652-5392, sueandjohn@shaw.ca Instrumental group Moxon Trio starts the season in September. The Linden Singers, one of the finest choirs on the Island, will kick off the Christmas season in November, followed by the Balkan Babes in January. Finally, back by popular request, Daniel Lapp's fabulous BC Fiddle Orchestra will be with us in March. Tickets, series: $40 adult; student $35. Single tickets (per concert) $12 adult, $10 students, free for children under 12.
September 18
Beginning September 26
Cued Ballroom Dancing Class Royal Oak Women's Institute Hall, 4516 West Saanich Road, 8 p.m. 250-474-6451 rsda2005@telus.net 26 lessons beginning September 26th. Learn Cha Cha, Rumba, Two Step, etc! Two payments of $65 per person.
Community Hoedown Royal Oak Hall – 4516 West Saanich Road 7:30 - 9:30 p.m. 250-658-2747, clayton@ieccorporate.com A free evening of country (square dance), laughter and vittles. Casual attire, 18+.
This evening will feature four single cask whiskies from various whisky regions in Scotland. Every cask is unique and has been carefully selected for you to experience the exceptional quality of natural unadulterated whisky. An excellent three-course dinner and four whisky tastings: members $60, guests $70, dinner only (designated drivers) $50.
dancing country
For more details on What's Happening on the Peninsula, visit www.mypeninsula.ca
Sunday Serenade The Sunday Serenade is now in its fifth season of local concerts taking place on Sunday afternoons at St. Mary's Anglican Church in Saanichton. Our purpose is to present entertainment that appeals to residents in our community at an affordable price. Sunday afternoons during the fall and winter are an ideal time to spend a couple of hours listening to a choir, an instrumental group or soloists. We also have a reputation for providing the best intermission refreshments in town! Our sponsors are all part of our community: Fresh Cup Roastery Café, Gartley Station, the Peninsula News Review and Smitty's Restaurant in Brentwood Bay. Along with several individual sponsors, their support has allowed us to keep ticket prices reasonable and unchanged! Instrumental group Moxon Trio starts the season in September. The Linden Singers, one of the finest choirs on the Island, will kick off the Christmas season in November, followed by the Balkan Babes in January – perhaps you've heard them at Butchart Gardens. Finally, back by popular request, Daniel Lapp's fabulous BC Fiddle Orchestra will be with us in March. See the ad below for information on tickets, give us a call at 250-652-5392 or email sueandjohn@shaw.ca. We look forward to seeing you at the concerts. ~ Sue and John Smith
y unda
Enjoy our unique
Thai Menu
after 4 p.m.– 7 days a week 250-544-1565 • 799 Verdier Avenue Brentwood Bay (beside the Mill Bay Ferry)
Playing at the Star in September!
e erenad
SUNDAY AFTERNOON CONCERTS 2:30 pm
at ST. MARY’S ANGLICAN CHURCH 1973 Cultra Ave. @ East Saanich Rd.,Saanichton
2011-2012 Season
September 17, 2011
November 20, 2011
The Moxon Trio:
Linden Singers
Nancy DiNovo, violin; Steve Denroche, French horn; Tony Booker, piano
More info at...
January 29, 2012
March 25, 2012
Balkan Babes
BC Fiddle Orchestra
www.starcinema.ca
Great Movies! Great PoPcorn! Great Prices!
TICKETS
SERIES: Adult $40 / Student $35 SINGLE Tickets (per concert): Adults $12/Students $10/Child (under 12 free)
Sidney’s
Tickets will be available at the door
For tickets/information, please call 652-5392 or email sueandjohn@shaw.ca 9842 Third Street, Sidney, BC
SPONSORED BY...
SEASIDE TIMES
250.655.3384
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september 2011
51
A ‘Heritage’ Gem by Valerie Green Foreword from “A ‘Heritage’ Gem – The House That Captured the Innkeepers.” My association with Larry and Sandra Gray (proprietors of Heritage House Bed & Breakfast) began in the early 1990s. Sandra and I were, and still are, heritage buffs and we first met because of our involvement as board members on the Saanich Heritage Foundation. This connection continued as we served on subsequent heritage committees.
Thank You … To our loyal customers for your 40 years of support in Saanichton. The Spelt Family and staff look forward to continuing to serving you in the future. at the corner of Wallace Dr. & East Saanich Road
BURKMAR automotive SERVICE I PARTS I REPAIRS
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SEASIDE TIMES
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I later had the great pleasure of experiencing Christmas parties held at Heritage House where I also met Larry. To see their beautiful home dressed up in its finest clothes at Christmas time is a joy beyond compare. It soon became obvious to me that the Grays were dedicated to the preservation of all things historical. Their hard work over the past 20 years to restore their home to its former glory is testament to that dedication. It is hardly surprising that their endeavors have won them two heritage awards: one from The Heritage Society of British Columbia “recognizing and honouring special projects and accomplishments in the field of Heritage Conservation” and one a Hallmark Society Award of Merit “for the restoration and preservation of the house and property at 3808 Heritage Lane.” Larry’s idea of putting together a book of their experiences as they restored their home and turned it into a Bed & Breakfast of note is pure genius. Not only will his story inspire others to turn “pigs’ ears into silk purses;” it will also be relished by other owners and innkeepers of heritage homes. The Grays’ memories have been preserved in a humorous and delightful way by Larry Gray as he relates in detail the tales of their ongoing restoration work, intertwining those memories with stories of love, murder, mystery and the occasional ghostly sightings; all necessary ingredients to any history of a heritage house. Interspersed with Larry’s own recollections are the amusing and heartfelt notes left behind by the many hundreds of guests who have stayed at Heritage House through the years. After having read A Heritage Gem, I was left with a warm feeling. I wanted Larry and Sandra Gray to adopt me so that I might move into their beautiful home permanently. For information on purchasing “A Heritage Gem – The House That Captured the Innkeepers,” visit www.aheritagegem.com.
www.seasidetimes.ca
september 2011
Sudoku Puzzles Middle of the Road
1
1 8 9 6 4 2 9 7 6 5 9 4 2 7 6 9 8 4 2 7 9 3 4 2 1 5 1
Puzzle by websudoku.com
7 9 6 9 5 3
Exceedingly Evil
3 4 1 4 2
8 6
Keep Your Brain Healthy
7
4
9
4 3 6
2 8 6 3 9 4 1
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 49
Zais Astrology – September 2011 by Heather Zais (heather_zais@telus.net) Aries (march 21 - april 19) A focus on health and self improvement will help you get more out of life now. A balance between work and play works wonders. Step outside your comfort zone. Lighten duties. Venus puts positive energy into most relationships.
Libra (september 23 - october 22) A lot goes on behind the scenes this month. This can be internally or with circumstance. Check things out or have tests done. Introspection will give you solutions to problems. You are looking attractive with Venus in your sign.
Taurus (april 20 - may 20) Your creativity needs an outlet. This affects your surroundings or relationships. Special entertainment catches your interest or participation. You desire more depth or intensity in your love life; this occurs with the right person. Hugs.
Scorpio (october 23 - november 21) Hopes and wishes come true with the help of powerful or influential people. They know a winning horse when they see one. Navigate the ladder of success. Your capability allows others to be able to relax. Stand tall.
Gemini (may 21 - june 20) Your living situation can be new or improved. It's time to buy, sell or renovate with success. Closure at this time has a positive affect on your future ambitions. You adapt to change more easily now. Check important details.
Sagittarius (november 22 - december 21) Your popularity is on the rise. This gives your business or career a boost. Support comes from important places. Write, speak or "get the word out." Spread your wings – travel – make connections. Accept invitations.
Cancer (june 21 - july 22) Special communications lead to travel for you or company coming. The personal touch enhances relationships of all types. You are ready for things to open up on more than one level. Entertain or participate with others in theirs.
Capricorn (december 22 - january 19) Look at the long view regarding future plans. This involves communications over distance. As your feelings change so does your target direction. You need to feel a part of what you do. You climb independently with success.
Leo (july 23 - august 22) The lion in you needs a bit more of the spotlight. You achieve this in creative or interesting ways; others are agreeable to it. Your efforts are noted and appreciated by those keeping score – no need to roar. It's all good.
Aquarius (january 20 - february 18) A closer look at jointly held assets or finances will show where benefits are. Value is in the eye of the beholder. Travel can be fruitful as well. Combine business with pleasure. You orchestrate a win-win situation all round.
Virgo (august 23 - september 22) Your attention to duty and detail makes you a natural leader or caregiver. You have a positive affect on others or their circumstances. Follow regulations to get you to the next level. It's time for you to shine. Strut your stuff.
Pisces (february 19 - march 20) Relationships have an added influence on your future plans. Move forward with stable ones and let go of the others. Your sensitive nature needs security and solidarity in personal or business. Avoid being on "the hook" for them.
Has Anyone Seen Blanche? Painted Turtles on the Peninsula by Anny Scoones My friends George and Peggy live on the Peninsula and recently posted a notice on their corner hydro pole which read: “LOST TURTLE – Goes By the Name Blanche: REWARD!” George and Peggy have a beautiful Japanese garden where their turtles love to paddle and bask amongst the pale pearl pink lily pads and smooth grey stones in their pond. There is something else that turtles love to do, which may explain Blanche’s disappearance (rather than an abduction or a home invasion) – turtles need to travel away and lay their eggs in a safe and secure spot. When this uncontrollable and primitive innate urge descends upon a turtle, nothing will stop her, and she will power-walk to the perfect location to perform her task which she has been doing for 200 million years. It is one of the few times a turtle will venture onto land (the other being to bask in the sun’s warmth). Recently, a grand and environmentally crucial initiative was embarked upon to restore the turtle nesting areas at the Elk/ Beaver Lake Park ponds. The project was a partnership between the CRD Parks and the Habitat Acquisition Trust (HAT). With these groups of professionals and volunteers, specific areas of the park were created to provide the turtles with safe locations in which to lay their springtime clutches (eggs). These turtles with their new and protected habitats are not just ordinary, run-of-the-mill turtles – they’re British Columbia’s native western painted turtle (pictured), distinctive by the yel-
low stripes along their neck and a beautiful red patterned plastron (underside). According to HAT, they are endangered due to their increasing habitat loss and numerous predators (including the invasive American bullfrog). Predators such as raccoons also love to feast on the eggs.
stroking and tickling her head.
During the winter, the turtles will hibernate in the mud on the bottom of their pond, but come spring, sexual feelings begin to stir! The male turtle flirts with a female by
In early summer the little female turtle makes her way out of the pond and searches dutifully for a safe spot to dig a hole and lay her clutch. After covering her eggs, she’ll pat down the soil. Some diligent females will even disguise the nest with brush and debris. A good nest should face south (for warmth) and be on a slope (for good drainage). The baby turtles hatch in late summer but remain in their nest until spring before venturing into their new world and discovering pond life (where the bullfrog awaits, or something else waiting for a tasty morsel, on their valiant journey to the shore). The precarious life of the plucky little western painted turtle is in Mother Nature’s fateful hands! The endeavors of the CRD Parks and HAT is crucial in creating safe nesting sites for this little turtle to give it a chance to thrive against so many odds. Epilogue: Blanche was never found, nor did she return home. George and Peggy’s only response to their notice was from an animal psychic who said she knew that Blanche was “somewhere in the universe, at peace.”
adventures@seaquestadventures.com 105-2357 Beacon Ave, Sidney, B.C.
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SEASIDE TIMES
For more information on the western painted turtle, other current HAT projects and ways you can help be a good steward, contact them at 250-995-2428 or visit www.hat.bc.ca. For informative (illustrated!) booklets on B.C.’s species at risk, contact Wildlife Branch of the Ministry of Environment, Lands and Parks, Box 9374, Stn. Prov. Govt., Victoria, B.C. V8W 9M4. For more information on the western painted turtle habitat project at Elk/Beaver Lake Park, call CRD Regional Parks at 250-478-3344 or visit www.crd.bc.ca/parks. Photo courtesy Deb Thiessen. www.seasidetimes.ca
last wo rd defines as "the use of web-based and mobile technologies to turn communication into an interactive dialogue … a set of methods to enhance social communication."
About four years ago, I finally succumbed to Facebook. I say "succumbed" because I was a holdout – Facebook had been popular with my demographic for a while, but I just couldn't see what all the fuss was about. After signing up, however, I understood. Suddenly I had the ability to track down old friends and keep in touch with new ones – all in the same place.
The idea of social media makes a lot of sense to me and Sue, as our main goal is for Seaside Times to connect with and reflect our community. We got in touch with Chris Burdge, owner of bWest Interactive (see article on page 14), and he quickly set us on the path to true interconnectivity with our readers and clients. This issue marks the launch of Seaside Times into that world: Facebook, Twitter, LinkedIn
and the Seaside Times blog are just the beginning, with other platforms such as YouTube to follow soon. We're excited about the opportunities social media gives us: not only the ability to share our magazine via different means, but the ability to receive direct and instant feedback from our readers on what they like and what they'd like to see in the future. We look forward to exploring this new world with you. Enjoy the issue!
Allison Smith
Editor-in-Chief
Micro-Roasted Freshness Maximum Flavour
For a while, that's all Facebook was: somewhere to connect with friends. Recently though, it's become something better: businesses are creating pages on the site, and using those pages to connect with current and potential customers. This use of Facebook (and other social platforms such as Twitter, LinkedIn and foursquare) is an example of social media, which Wikipedia
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september 2011
55
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