Seaside Times December 2011 Issue

WEST COAST CULTURE DECEMBER 2011

Sidney Senior CareSea Side Times8.5 x 11 + .25” bleedDec 2011

• personal care • meal prep • shopping

• housekeeping & laundry • general maintenance

• companionship & respite care

• transportation & customized outings

. . . and any other service that you may require.

The most precious gifts this season are not on any list . . .

Sidney SeniorCare knows that there

are more important gifts to give than

those wrapped in festive packages.

Let’s spread some comfort and joy to

our seniors in the spirit of the season,

and make their holiday brighter this year.

SSC can help you do that with in-home

support and fl exible services that

will ensure a better quality of life

no matter what the time of year.

Flexible Service Available 24 hrs a day, 7 days a week

9752 Third Street, Sidney 250-656-7176 OR 250-589-0010 www.sidneyseniorcare.com

Come visit our Seniors DayCare & Educational Centre located right next door.

SSC_Holiday_SST_1211_print.indd 1 11-11-20 8:28 PM

PeninsulaCelebrationsSociety

PENI

NSUL

A CELEBRATIONS SOCIETY

Find full event details andupcoming events at

PeninsulaCelebrations.ca

Event Line: 250.656.4365

JAN 1NOON

THE2012POLAR BEAR SWIM

Fairytales Do Come True!7th Annual Saanichton Community Christmas ~ Dec 10

We’re ready for you!

View our selection of delicious entertaining options at thriftyfoods.comOrder by phone at 250.483.1666 Or 1.800.667.8280Please note that we require 48 hours notice on all our trays.

SIDNEY9810 Seventh Street,Sidney250.656.0946

CENTRAL SAANICH7860 Wallace Drive, Saanichton250.544.0980

Dolce Vita Meat & Cheese Tray

We’re ready for you!We’re ready for you!We’re ready for you!We’re ready for you!We’re ready for you!We’re ready for you!We’re ready for you!We’re ready for you!We’re ready for you!We’re ready for you!We’re ready for you!We’re ready for you!We’re ready for you!We’re ready for you!We’re ready for you!We’re ready for you!We’re ready for you!We’re ready for you!We’re ready for you!We’re ready for you!We’re ready for you!We’re ready for you!

Take the stress out of your next special eventby choosing one of our beautifully prepared deli trays with the fi nest quality meats, fruits and cheeses.

Perfect for entertaining, just ask our Deli staffand let us do the work for you!

8083 C01 Seaside Times December 2011 10.11.indd 1 11-11-16 12:59 PM

Seaside Times

west coast culture – december 2011 issue

On the cover:"First Snow at

Goldstream (2011)" by Jordan Insley.

www.jinsleyphoto.com

departments7.................................................Letters12 .................................. Can We Talk?38 ........................................ Footprints49 .................................. Seaside News57 ....................................Grey Matters60 .........................What's Happening62 ................................. Entertainment

contents

ColumnsFirst Word ........................................... 6Island Dish ........................................16Smell the Coffee ............................ 22Forbes & Marshall .......................... 25Skin Deep ........................................ 35Weatherwit ..................................... 37Tweet This! ....................................... 45Last Word ........................................ 63

www.seasidetimes.ca

38

34featuresCommunity People, Community Coffee

A whole new "crop" of community minded people featured at Fresh Cup Café in Saanichton!

Arctic Adventure!Parkland student spends

two weeks on research icebreaker.

Restaurant Spotlight Culinary Ecstasy!

The Latch Inn & Restaurant42

9

34

We’re ready for you!

View our selection of delicious entertaining options at thriftyfoods.comOrder by phone at 250.483.1666 Or 1.800.667.8280Please note that we require 48 hours notice on all our trays.

SIDNEY9810 Seventh Street,Sidney250.656.0946

CENTRAL SAANICH7860 Wallace Drive, Saanichton250.544.0980

Dolce Vita Meat & Cheese Tray

We’re ready for you!We’re ready for you!We’re ready for you!We’re ready for you!We’re ready for you!We’re ready for you!We’re ready for you!We’re ready for you!We’re ready for you!We’re ready for you!We’re ready for you!We’re ready for you!We’re ready for you!We’re ready for you!We’re ready for you!We’re ready for you!We’re ready for you!We’re ready for you!We’re ready for you!We’re ready for you!We’re ready for you!We’re ready for you!

Take the stress out of your next special eventby choosing one of our beautifully prepared deli trays with the fi nest quality meats, fruits and cheeses.

Perfect for entertaining, just ask our Deli staffand let us do the work for you!

8083 C01 Seaside Times December 2011 10.11.indd 1 11-11-16 12:59 PM

52

SEASIDE TIMES www.seasidetimes.ca 6

In a flick of an eyelash, 2011 will come to a close and we will embark on a new year. But before the year ends, we still need to go through the frenetic upswing of seasonal shopping and events. Hopefully the busy period will give way to a calm and relaxing holiday season, laying the groundwork for a great 2012.

With this issue of Seaside Times, we hope to make your seasonal

shopping a bit easier. We have a sampling of unique products and services available at a number of fine stores on the Peninsula. I know that these gift-giving ideas will factor in my holiday shopping, and I hope that you are equally inspired. Don’t forget to enter the "sidney shopping spree" contest this month; see page 41 for details.

this is also the time of the year for giving and reflecting, with friends, families and yes, even strangers.

Many of us know some of the less fortunate, so let’s remember to give as much as we can this year, whether it’s a simple smile at one another on the street or a small food donation: we can all make a difference.

With reflection comes thoughts of the past year. For me, it’s been a big one, a year of change, especially with my purchase of Seaside Times. I’m so thankful to tim Flater, who found me and approached me with the idea to buy. As well, I reflect on my family and friends. not only do I have the two most beautiful kids in the world (thanks to my husband), I’m always humbled by the support and love of my friends and colleagues. this is a special "thank you" to all of you – you know who you are.

this is our last issue of Seaside Times for 2011 and so it is only fitting that I pause to express our gratitude for your readership and support. the entire seaside family works hard to publish our magazine, and all your positive feedback makes it worthwhile. on behalf of the whole team at seaside, thank you. We look forward to providing you with the very best magazine we can in 2012.

Best of the season to everyone,Lucas, eva and Mom (aka publisher)

Sue Hodgson, Publisher

FIRST WoRD

U.S. Pat.No. 7,007,507 © All rights reserved.

Knickerbocker’s Seaside2536 Beacon Ave.Sidney. B.C.250-656-5506

Knickerbocker’s Gifts12-7103 West Saanich Rd. Brentwood Bay, B.C.250-544-8211

PANDORA has been making its mark in the international fine jewelry industry for almost 30 years, and is world-renowned for its high-quality, hand finished design. Available in more than 55 countries on six conti-nents through over 10,000 points of sale.

PANDORA is pleased to announce the grand opening of its newest retail location this December, inside Knickerbocker’s at Broadmead Village shopping center in Victoria, BC. Knickerbocker’s has been a PANDORA retailer since 2008, and currently distributes PANDORA at its two Vancouver Island locations in Sidney and Brentwood Bay.

“Women in Victoria have embraced the PANDORA brand as a way to express their individuality, and we’re excited to offer them the opportu-nity to come and explore the latest pieces from the Autumn/Winter col-lection at our new store,” said Kristine Flater, owner of Knickerbocker’s.

Hand-Finished & GenuineEvery facet and feature of PANDORA jewellery is carefully con-sidered before it leaves the hands of our goldsmiths. We metic-ulously select the highest quality 14K and 18K gold, 925 silver and genuine gemstones when combining century-old crafts-manship with modern thinking and beautiful design. With up to 40 expert hands touching every piece, the level of craftsmanship is unsurpassed in the world. No two pieces are ever exactly alike – reflect-ing the individuality of every woman who wears it.

Knickerbocker’s Victoria320-777 Royal Oak DrVictoria, B.C.250-658-5578

www.knickerbockers.ca

Broadmead Village in VictoriaJUST GOT A LITTLE MORE CHARMING

Knickerbockers_StoreAd_Sep29_11_HP.indd 1 10/13/2011 2:22:05 PM

DECEMbER 2011www.seasidetimes.ca 7

www.seasidetimes.ca

Publisher, Advertising SalesSue Hodgson 250.516.6489

[email protected]

Editor-in-ChiefAllison Smith 250.813.1745

[email protected]

Advertising SalesLori Swan

250.516.6489

This Month’s ContributorsArlene Antonik • Trysh Ashby-Rolls • Jennifer Bowles

Chris Burdge • Michael Forbes • Dave Gartley Doreen Marion Gee • Valerie Green • Sharon Hope

Jordan Insley • Tina Kelly • Linda M. Langwith • Lisa Makar Barry Mathias • Steve Sakiyama • Steve Sheppard

Susan Simosko • Geoff Smith • Heather Zais

Seaside Times magazine is printed 12 times a year in Richmond, British Columbia by Rhino Print Solutions. Reproduction in whole or in part without permission is prohibited. Reproduction requests may be made to the editor or publisher via the above means. Views of contributors do not necessarily reflect the policy or views of the publisher and editor. Staff of the magazine cannot be held responsible for unsolicited manuscripts or photographs.

In-Room at:

250-656-1131

Victoria Airport/Sidney250-656-1176

The

Inn and SuitesCedarwood

250-656-5551

250-655-9445

250-656-4441

Emerald Isle Motor InnVictoria Airport Area

250-652-1146

1-800-565-1144250-656-9194

250-544-2079

250-704-4656

Seaside Times welcomes your feedback! Please send letters to the editor via [email protected].

I just finished reading the comment from Gerry re the Autumn Pork Pie (october 2011 Island Dish recipe) and was surprised at the response as I also made it. I thought it was delicious … I had a group of girlfriends over for an autumn dinner and everyone loved it. It presented well with the brie cheese and pecans and parsley. I would definitely make it again.

Jill niessen✢ ✢ ✢

Another great issue ladies. Loved the cover and smacked my lips over the rock cod. Beautiful it is not; however, it rivals our Pacific salmon when it comes to eating. enjoyed First Word and Last Word by you two. such timely articles throughout and I Do by trysh Ashby-Rolls was refreshing. Brought it to sandra's attention in particular to thwart her threats to write me off. In other words, we "old guys" can always find a new mate should she ever have a burst of good taste and leave me. Here on the Island, we are privileged to have such a quality and locally oriented publication as seaside times. Keep it up. okay?

Best as always, Larry Gray (Heritage House Bed and Breakfast)

✢ ✢ ✢

Let me say how impressed we were with the november edition. Many of the people featured are friends and long-time acquaintances and the photography and write-ups are very good.

terry Melville✢ ✢ ✢

This month's Seaside Times is better than ever. I loved the portraits and hope to see more. Please pass on my congratulations to sue on excellent changes made since she has taken over. I am glad you are still including Val Green's historical conversations.

Regards, Joan neudecker

LETTERS

Saanich Histor ical Art i facts Foundat ion presents :

CHRISTMAS IN THE VILLAGE 2011at Heritage Acres

December 9-11, 16-185-8 pm/$10 per carload

7321 Lochside Dr., Saanichton250-652-5522 • www.shas.ca

Visit Santa • Entertainment • Train Rides Refreshments • Christmas Lights

Raffle • Prizes … and more!

www.mineralworld.ca9808 Seaport Place, Sidney

Giv

e th

e g

ift o

f spa

rkle

to so

meone special or add a little something shiny to your holiday o

utfi

t.

We

spec

iali

ze in

un

iqu

e st

one

jew

ellery

and gems. And give him a little comfort and joy with

ou

r in-sto

re man

chair.

the new jewellery store at Mineral World

and the Scratch PatchMineral World

9808 Seaport Place, Sidney

www.mineralworld.ca

pla

y, d

isc

ov

er

and

lear

n

The Scratch Patch will be

presenting "Santa's

Workshop" from

Dec. 10th to Jan. 3rd,

Admission is always free!

A new business for Sidney! One of the things I love most about Sidney is our amazing and unique retail

shops. Sidney continues to grow as a retail destination and I for one LOVE shopping here! So many of the shops are owner-operated and

original – it makes me feel good to shop in our community. Sidney balances long-time retailers who provide consistency and newcomers

who create diversity. So, as a diehard Sidney shopper, the changes at Mineral World are very exciting and meaningful to me.

Mineral World is creating a new business brand which will incorporate their amazing line of unique gemstones and sterling silver jewellery.

Many people don’t realize the incredible selection of jewellery and gifts that Mineral World carries, primarily because the business is

associated with the science and children’s attraction that residents have enjoyed for so many years. Mineral World and the Scratch Patch

will celebrate their one-year anniversary in the new location with the addition of Pebbles, their new jewellery store. Pebbles will share the

same location as Mineral World and will focus on o�ering the kind of unique and quality items that Sidney retailers are known for. The

selection at Pebbles will ensure that you can find something for everyone in your life… most importantly: yourself!

It’s nice to see a business that is maintaining

what we know and love about it while also

expanding and o�ering new and exciting

things to buy… just in time for the holidays!

Speaking of the holidays, bring the family to

Mineral World between December 10th and

January 3rd when the Scratch Patch will

be transformed to Santa’s Work Shoppe;

admission to the Scratch Patch is

always free.

Signed,

Ivana Shop (...in Sidney)

9www.seasidetimes.ca december 2011SeASIde TImeS

Michell Bros. Farm was started in the mid-1800s when Vern’s great-grandfather returned from the goldmines of the Yukon to buy 100 acres of land for a dollar an acre. It has been farmed ever since. Vern is hugely proud that six generations have been continuously farming the land.

Community People, Community Coffee

When it comes to coffee I know a good cup, and instead of the traditional pastry that most have on the side I thoroughly enjoy the low-cal snack of people watch-ing. often referred to as the "Heart of the Peninsula," not just because of its location but for the surrounding farm-land, the village of saanichton provides a vibrant element to the historic saanich Peninsula. When asked to introduce this month’s edition of Community People, Community Coffee I jumped aboard and learned there are unique forces at work and play here.

Farmland is abundant in this small community, and local farmer Vern Michell has successfully brought the essence of the farm-gate experience to our doorstep. Just a short way up the

road you come face-to-face with a small orchard and a beautiful building where Kristen Jordan transforms locally grown apples into award-winning cider. travel across the picturesque Mount newton Valley to Woodwynn Farms and you’ll discover farmland shaped differently, in contrast, for those in need, with Richard Leblanc at the helm.

every great community needs a little protection, and three amazing women in this edition lead by example and give back to the community using communi-cation and a classy touch. When things get too hot to handle, Jamie Day and the staff at the Prairie Inn always find a way to cool things down. I think everyone agrees that the youth of our commun-ity is the future – stelly’s secondary is

responsible for many great meals we enjoy locally through the dedication of carla and Peggy, who support the up-and-coming "foodies" of our commun-ity. stelly’s is also home to a world-class indoor climbing facility that inspires Kimanda Jarzebiak.

even in the quietest moments, don’t be surprised if you hear music coming from the piano or guitar of sam Weber. sam’s one of those people who has music in his veins.

It makes me smile to think how many talented people live in such a small community; we even have a smile spe-cialist in Dr. Richard Burns. so, sit back and enjoy the magic of Geoff smith's images with a coffee at Fresh cup and get acquainted with what makes saan-ichton Village a special part of the saanich Peninsula.

Photo this page and following pages courtesy Geoff Smith.

A whole new "crop" of community minded people featured at Fresh Cup Café in Saanichton! by Steve Sheppard

5

3

4

6

78

1

2

(1) Kimanda is the driving force behind the Boulders Climbing Gym, their 8,000 s/f expansion opens at the end of November which will make it the largest in Canada. There are climbers from all over the world moving to the area to train.

(2) “It’s so nice for these young people to be recognized, they do such great work.” That’s the voice of their committed teacher, Peggy. Stelly’s Culinary School has been running for over 25 years. There’s a lot of pride here.

(3) Kristen grew up around apples; her father owned an orchard in Shuswap so when she looked for a business the apple didn’t fall far from the tree. Kristen has been running Sea Cider for 7 years and couldn’t imagine doing anything else. “I love the land and I love the people.”

(4) Sam is a guitar virtuoso and has been playing for 12 years. At 15 he formed his own band, dad played drums. Sam plays Blues and Alternative Rock, his new album River has just been released.

(5) The Prairie Inn has been here since 1869, Tony, Amy and Jamie a total of 27 years, they all love the camaraderie of the place and the area. “It’s like hanging out with your friends every day.”

(6) Richard would not want to be a dentist anywhere else. “I get to practice state-of-the-art dentistry in such bucolic scenery, surrounded by interesting and educated people. I teach regularly in Seattle but I am so glad to come back to Saanichton”

(7) Man these cops are fit, runners, swimmers, tri-athletes. “Our whole group has to be the fittest in town.” And friendly. “Our detachment is small but it is so much like a family; I know everyone’s kids.”

(8) Richard runs Woodwynn Farms, a therapeutic community for people who need a hand up instead of a hand out. The groups vision is to bring homeless people back into community by giving them the support and the tools needed to reclaim their self-worth.

(1) Kimanda is the driving force behind the Boulders Climbing Gym. Their 8,000-square-foot expansion, making the gym the largest in Canada, opened at the end of November. There are climbers from all over the world moving to the area to train.

(2) “It’s so nice for these young people to be recognized; they do such great work.” That’s the voice of Stelly's Culinary School's committed teacher, Peggy. The school has been running for over 25 years, and there’s a lot of pride here.

(3) Kristen grew up around apples. Her father owned an orchard in Shuswap, so when she looked for a business the apple didn’t fall far from the tree. Kristen has been running Sea Cider Farm & Ciderhouse for seven years and couldn’t imagine doing anything else. “I love the land and I love the people.”

(4) Sam is a guitar virtuoso and has been playing for 12 years. At 15 he formed his own band; dad played drums. Sam plays blues and alternative rock and his new album River has just been released.

(5) The Prairie Inn has been here since 1869 and Tony, Amy and Jamie have a total of 27 years between them. They all love the camaraderie of the place and the area. “It’s like hanging out with your friends every day.”

(6) Richard wouldn't want to be a dentist anywhere else: “I get to practise state-of-the-art dentistry in such bucolic scenery, surrounded by interesting and educated people. I teach regularly in Seattle but I am so glad to come back to Saanichton.”

(7) Man these cops are fit! They're runners, swimmers and tri-athletes. “Our whole group has to be the fittest in town,” they say. They're also friendly: “our detachment is small but it is so much like a family; I know everyone’s kids.”

(8) Richard runs Woodwynn Farms, a therapeutic community for people who need a hand up instead of a handout. The group's vision is to bring homeless people back into the community by giving them the support and the tools needed to reclaim their self-worth.

5

3

4

6

78

1

2

(1) Kimanda is the driving force behind the Boulders Climbing Gym, their 8,000 s/f expansion opens at the end of November which will make it the largest in Canada. There are climbers from all over the world moving to the area to train.

(2) “It’s so nice for these young people to be recognized, they do such great work.” That’s the voice of their committed teacher, Peggy. Stelly’s Culinary School has been running for over 25 years. There’s a lot of pride here.

(3) Kristen grew up around apples; her father owned an orchard in Shuswap so when she looked for a business the apple didn’t fall far from the tree. Kristen has been running Sea Cider for 7 years and couldn’t imagine doing anything else. “I love the land and I love the people.”

(4) Sam is a guitar virtuoso and has been playing for 12 years. At 15 he formed his own band, dad played drums. Sam plays Blues and Alternative Rock, his new album River has just been released.

(5) The Prairie Inn has been here since 1869, Tony, Amy and Jamie a total of 27 years, they all love the camaraderie of the place and the area. “It’s like hanging out with your friends every day.”

(6) Richard would not want to be a dentist anywhere else. “I get to practice state-of-the-art dentistry in such bucolic scenery, surrounded by interesting and educated people. I teach regularly in Seattle but I am so glad to come back to Saanichton”

(7) Man these cops are fit, runners, swimmers, tri-athletes. “Our whole group has to be the fittest in town.” And friendly. “Our detachment is small but it is so much like a family; I know everyone’s kids.”

(8) Richard runs Woodwynn Farms, a therapeutic community for people who need a hand up instead of a hand out. The groups vision is to bring homeless people back into community by giving them the support and the tools needed to reclaim their self-worth.

T hose of us who grew up in the Maritimes have great stories: what’s one of yours? What made you move to the West Coast?

I grew up in Halifax, on the Atlantic ocean, and unfortu-nately am very allergic to shellfish. We used to have “lobster boils” in our backyard when I was younger. I was the sous-chef,

helping my dad. When we were just about ready

to eat, I would run into the house and make myself a peanut butter and jelly sand-

wich – that’s what I ate! We chose the

West coast because it was on the

ocean. We like the

small

community feeling on the Island. I love the sense of history that exists on the Island … we love everything about it!

As we all know, working in the corporate world can have its chal-lenges. Having worked in high level government for most of your career and looking back at all that you’ve accomplished, is there any-thing you would have done differently?

I would do many things differently. I would have worked less and played more! I would have made more time for friends and for my own health. Working 60 or 70 hours a week leaves little time to actually “have a life.” time is short. there needs to be balance.

What inspired you to write two bestselling books: “Easy Low-Carb Cooking” and “Slow Carb for Life?”

When I retired from the public service I was overweight and under fit! I took a year to get into shape and lost considerable weight. I started developing recipes, just for our family, and a friend suggested I write a cookbook. Both books stemmed from that suggestion and it was a wonderful experience for me. What started as a bit of a lark became a five-year project. It was hard work, but very rewarding.

What changes have you seen in your life since you discovered this way of eating?

In addition to a dramatic drop in my weight, there are many positive aspects to this way of eating. I have been able to keep the weight off for over 10 years and I am fit and active. We discovered that I am sensitive to gluten (found in wheat), and taking wheat out of my diet made a huge difference to my overall health. I had been tested years before for an allergy to wheat and the test was negative, but I am much healthier and happier without wheat in my diet.

A few years ago you were introduced to Arbonne and launched your own business. What intrigued you about this particular business opportunity?

Many things intrigued me about Arbonne. the company and the products are absolutely unique in the marketplace. I was

patricia HaakonsonRegional Vice PresidentArbonne International

CAn WE TALk? … Publisher Sue Hodgson talks with Patr icia Haakonson,

after 25 years in federal and provincial government, patricia Haakonson wasn't looking for another career. upon retirement, and search-ing for ways to get healthier, she wrote a cookbook and, with her physician husband’s help, a lifestyle book. Both became bestsellers, and the next five

years were spent traveling, doing media interviews and book signings. In 2006 she was introduced to arbonne Inter-national and has since built another very successful career. With teams in Canada, the u.s., australia and the u.K., patricia's time is spent training and coaching her teams while continuing to build her busi-ness. Her advice? "Be genuine; lead from the heart; just be yourself and open yourself up to imagine the possibilities."


very impressed by the people and the level of professionalism. everyone in Arbonne is taught to share and to help anyone else become successful. I did a lot of research before I decided to launch my business. I love the products! I love that I am an example of both how well the products work and that the earning opportunity is a profitable one.

There are thousands of home-based busi-nesses; what makes Arbonne unique?

this company has been ahead of its time since its inception. We have always been a green company. We have never tested on animals or ever used animal products in our ingredients. All our prod-ucts are botanically based and vegan cer-tified. We are as concerned about educat-ing the consumer as we are about sales. We provide a healthy alternative for skin care, bath and body, cosmetics and nutri-tion. none of our nutrition products con-tain gluten. our products do not contain any of the toxic ingredients found in so many personal care products. We guar-antee results and our products are 100% money-back guaranteed.

In 2008, you received the “Top Canadian” award in the Area Manager category, and this year you were recognized as one of the top regional vice-presidents – what’s next?

I plan to continue to work with my team to help them achieve the level of success they desire. I expect to pro-mote to the top (senior) level of vice-president within the next year. I hope to introduce the products and the income potential to many more people.

You constantly travel to various parts of the world, training and working the busi-ness. Does it ever get tiring?

I LoVe to travel, so it is never a hard-ship. My schedule is my own, so when I get a little tired I simply take a few days off. I am my own boss, so there is no one to ask if I can. I always take extra time around the holidays, and I always allow for some downtime and sight-seeing when I travel for my business. I also usu-

ally take my wonderful husband with me for company. How fun is that?

You could retire now and live a comfort-able lifestyle. What makes you continue on this journey at 60 years of age?

the truth of the matter is that I love what I do. I have never before experi-enced such a sense of accomplishment and fulfillment. the people that I work with are amazing, and I'm having a lot of fun. I will slow down at 65 but with this industry that means I will travel less, I will do less motivational training, I will work only with my team leaders. I will have a lot more personal time and still enjoy an amazing residual income!

Looking back at your career of 25 years in government, if you knew the financial success and fulfillment you get from Arbonne, what would you tell someone contemplating a career?

I would recommend that anyone start-ing out, or looking for a career change, take a serious look at network Market-ing. there are some really great books out there about the industry. two of my favourites are The Business of the 21st Century by Robert Kiyosaki and The Flip Flop CEO by Janine Finney, Lory Muir-head and Whitney Roberts. I would rec-ommend that everyone think of taking their financial and work future into their own hands. With the economy being what it is today, being your own ceP is your best bet for stability and for finan-cial and time freedom.

What are some of your favourite ways to spend your downtime?

there are many things I enjoy: golf, Bikram’s hot yoga, spending time with my grandchildren, gardening, reading and watching movies. I make every effort to have a well-rounded life. I have plenty of time with family and friends. My business fits in around my life, instead of the other way around. I am happy and content.

Questions? Email [email protected]. Photo courtesy Geoff Smith.

Regional Vice President, Arbonne International

It was the usual "I don’t know how we’re going to get everything done" lead-up to christmas, when the self-congratulatory voices of the weather folk announced in delighted tones that huge dumps of snow were threatened for the evening of December 23rd and "even more on christmas eve!" the result on the southern Gulf Islands was akin to a social revolution.

Islanders, who had never been known to hurry, even for last orders in the pub, were seen buying up all the christmas necessities as if a national strike were threatened: tin goods by the case, birdseed by the kilo, toilet rolls in army-sized packs and enough videos for a week of solid viewing. In food stores, the lines at the tills built up as shoppers used debit cards instead of cash and forgot their pin numbers; local liquor stores were so pressured they stopped asking seniors for their ID and at the Island gas sta-

tions, worried customers forgot their usual parsimonious $10 limit.

the rumour mill was in top gear: "Knee deep it’s going to be." "I heard thigh deep." "Winds up to 60 km." "Gales! there’ll be no electricity." "Bliz-zards! Roads will be blocked for days."

With the imminent arrival of a new ice age only hours away, dogs were given their last walks for the foresee-able future; log piles were moved into the house, complete with ants, spiders and dormant wasps; children polished their toboggans and concerned moth-ers checked out the first aid boxes.

When the first diffident flakes float-ed down from an iron sky, there was rejoicing in the ranks of the toboggan brigade, triumphant smiles from those who could still get into last year’s ski-ing gear and visions of big earnings

by barry Mathias from the "clear your drive for $10" entre-preneurs. However, when after some hours the flakes remained whimsical and powdery, and the expected car-covering depth was still being calculated in milli-metres, there were mutinous rumblings at bedtime. optimists, and those who looked forward to the annual heroics on the road, consoled themselves with "It’s set in. It’ll be terrible by the morning.”

By the first light there was enough of the white stuff to allow the snow plows to terrorize the roads, dump mountains of salt and ensure the accelerated rusting of four-wheel-drive vehicles whose owners wished to demonstrate their prowess.

car mechanics and those who operated body shops smiled in their sleep whenever a salting truck growled past. "A rusting car! A rusting car! My income is a rusting car!"

there was a frantic clearing of driveways by some active souls, a hiding of snow shovels by others and the dutiful walk-ing of bemused dogs that painted yellow pictures in pristine snow drifts. the trees sagged with laden branches and, aided by a rising wind, deposited their bounty on the unwary. Large children, muffled up in huge hats and scarves, tobogganed down steep, little-used roads, overturned half way down and were revealed as parents … while their children played computer games at home.

Before the grey light had dimmed, a thaw had set in and by christmas eve there were nostalgic tremors in the voices of those who had spoken out against the evils of snow: "I hope we have a white christmas like we used to when I was a kid!" Younger voices demanded in wor-ried tones: "If the snow melts will Father christmas still come?"

then it was morning. A stocking-filled, turkey aroma day with enough wet snow on the ground to convince even the great-est "Humbug!"-yelling pessimist that it was truly a white christmas. so, what happened to the thigh-deep snow? come on folks, we don’t live in Whitehorse, these are the lotus isles – a little bit of everything eh!

Dreaming of a White Christmas

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december 2011www.seasidetimes.ca SeASIde TImeS14

Gay Helmsing [email protected]

Craig [email protected]

Jeff Bryan [email protected]

William Bird [email protected]

Roy Coburn [email protected]

Gaye Phillips [email protected]

Rene Blais [email protected]

Debbie Gray [email protected]

Jack Barker [email protected]

Don Bellamy [email protected]

Beverley McIvor [email protected]

Jim Allan [email protected]

Lisa Dighton [email protected]

Ross Shortreed [email protected]

Renee Colonnello [email protected]

Celebrate & Peace Be With You


1890 Mills Road in north saanich is home to one of the south Island’s most intriguing local shops. situated on a few majestic acres near Victoria airport, the renowned snowdon House features spectacular handmade cards, paper goods and all manner of sumptuous edible gifts. owner Laura Waters also produces aromatic bath products, stunning hand-crafted ornaments and beautiful little picture frames, all demonstrating an incredible level of artistic technique which is truly a cut above. snowdon House is most certainly your go-to place this holiday season; guaranteed there is something for everyone on your list!

one of my favourites in Laura's collection is her culinary line (how unlike me!) which boasts homemade jellies and compotes, delightful sorbet mixes, mouthwatering brie toppers, home-grown preserves, tangy berry vinegars and an imported line of incredible dried pasta line called "Papparedelle’s." As far as I know, snowdon House is one of the only retailers in canada that carries this line, featuring both sweet and savoury creations. one of the highlights of this product line is its selection of gluten-free pastas for individuals who are celiac, or with wheat-conscious dietary restrictions. these pastas don’t skimp on flavour and are all uniquely delicious.

Papparadelle’s isn’t your average noodle! this pasta dazzled my taste buds with an amazing variety of flavours; try "Fanciful Fruit" with notes of mango and orange, perfect for a summer pasta salad; chocolate and Raspberry Gemelli (inspired by oven-warmed chocolate brownie) drizzled with gorgeous raspberry sauce; Lemon chive

by Jennifer bowles

Snowed Under for Gift Ideas? Think Snowdon House

ISLAND DISH

Offering You & Your Loved Ones “ Gourmet Goodness”

This Holiday Season

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Angel Hair you can toss with sautéed B.c. spot prawns and beurre-blanc – definitely worth the culinary effort. Another surprising selection is the orange szechuan Linguine that would marry beautifully with black bean chicken, fresh mandarin slices and stir-fried red bell pepper. If you like

life a little (or a lot) on the spicy side, then give the extreme Habanero Radiatore a whirl. I will honestly say that I have not had anything as adventurous as this pasta in my life. If you have a heat lover in your family, this is the gift for them! these pastas stay true to their claim: boasting some fantastic exclusive flavours and being truly one of a kind!

Along with the pasta line, snowdon House showcases some incredible gifts for any man on your list: great ideas like an array of BBQ spice rubs such as West coast chicken or steak for your home BBQ chef, or ready-to-mix Beer Bread. All you have to do is grease a loaf pan, mix the contents and add a bottle of beer (if they are willing to give one up) and voilà … perfect home-baked bread! there are carrot and citrus compotes made from local ingredients, dried soup blends like hearty coconut Ginger Dahl or Garden Vegetable orzo. check out red pepper dipping sauces and a variety of teas, cake mixes and on and on. I could have spent hours in the shop being dazzled by all her

offerings. the best part of snowden House (apart from the selection)? the prices! If you looked at any specialty market in town you’d certainly have a hard time finding these products, and if you did you wouldn’t want to pay their prices. At snowdon the prices make your pocketbook sing, and who doesn’t want that during the holidays?

All of Laura's food products come with recipes attached, and information on the Papardelle's bags directs you to a website where many more recipes are available.

Laura's shelves are jam-packed with a mouthwatering array of goodies and truly unique gift ideas. each product, magnificently wrapped in her gorgeous homemade paper, is an ideal solution for host gifts, stocking stuffers, gift exchanges and the perfect find for that certain someone who has everything!

snowdon House is open every day from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. except Wednesdays, and can be found online at www.snowdonhouse.ca. so curl up with your festive rum and eggnog, light the fire and know that if you make a stop at snowdon House, your holiday shopping will be complete.

Questions? Email [email protected].

children’sboutique

www.scallywags-island.ca

DOWNTOWN624 Fort St 250 360 2570

BROADMEAD VILLAGE777 Royal Oak Dr 250 360 2520

*Receive a $10 Scallywags Gift Card for each $50 you spend before tax.Valid December 1–24, 2011. Check in store for details

Everything for the Holidays!

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I cared for Betty

It’s our hospital.

Your donation will help us

renovate the Extended Care Unit.

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

Our ECU is home to some very special

people – just like Betty. We need your help

so that we can provide modern facilities,

off er more comfort for residents and help

our staff to be more eff ective.

Every year thousands of visitors and residents of sidney are delighted by the awe-inspiring vistas along the town's seaside promenade. sidney's accessible walk is enjoyed by young

and old, families, people with pets, joggers, walkers, strollers, beach combers and bench sitters. It's a friendly place where people are comfortable enough to smile, say hello and stop to talk to one another.

this project is being launched to enrich sidney's seaside experience and add to the community's vibrant cultural scene by adding sculpture along the pedestrian path. Initially the sculptures will be located close to the town centre at the foot of Beacon Avenue, but eventually the installations will extend the full two kilometres of the waterfront walkway.

sidney downtown merchants, Mary Winspear centre, Book town, shaw ocean Discovery centre, saanich Peninsula community Arts centre, sidney Museum, thursday night Market, sidney's Peninsula celebrations and now … sidney seaside sculpture Walk. Another great reason to visit sunny sidney-by-the-sea.

A call to Artists is being issued inviting Artists to exhibit their sculpture for a two-year period. sidney's Mayor cross commented:

"this is a positive development for everyone. the artists have an opportunity to exhibit their work in a spectacular setting and increase their exposure to potential buyers.

"the town and its businesses will gain from the many visitors who come and return again and again to experience our spectacular West coast seascape and our creative and vibrant little town."

For further information about this initiative visit www.sculpturewalk.ca, contact Richard or Sue Paquette at 778-426-3466, email [email protected] or contact Mayor Larry Cross, Town of Sidney at 250-656-1139.

Sidney Seaside Sculpture Walk

"The artists have an opportunity to exhibit their work in a spectacular setting and increase their exposure to potential buyers." ~ Sidney Mayor Larry Cross


© 2011 Chamilia, LLC. All rights reserved.

to be continued

My life’s unfolding one bead at a time...

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

778-426-4436 • doyleandbond.caHome and Garden

Available at

Saanichton: 2134 Keating X Road 250-652-4400Tillicum: 3170 Tillicum Road 250-384-0060Yates: 759 Yates Street 250-384-4136, ext. 3

Liquor SToreGood Spirits. Great Value. 9 am - 11 pm 7 days a week

$25.99 (750 ml) $24.99 (750 ml)$25.59 (750 ml)

Pick Your PoisonThree Great Holiday Season

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Enter to win a 55” LCD TV at any Liquor Express location

Details in storeFriend us on Facebook – Liquor Express

Follow us on Twitter – @liquorexpressbc

www.liquorexpress.ca


Marmalade Tart Boutique

Mon - Sat 10-530 • Sundays & Holidays 1130-5778-426-3356 • www.marmaladetart.com

TMFun, Flirty, Fabulous Fashion!

Visit us in the Landmark Building #102-2506 Beacon Ave. (next to Salon J)

Do you want a stress-free christmas this year? of course you do. somehow we carry an image of the perfect christ-mas in our minds, influenced no doubt by glossy magazine spreads. the tree is a glittering symbol of colour-coordin-ated perfection with neatly wrapped gifts spread under its canopy, the carpets are freshly shampooed, the furniture is polished and gleaming, a tray of elaborately decorated sugar cookies competes with platters of carefully constructed hors d’oeuvres and the family enjoys a game of Monopoly where no one fights over Park Place. so that’s the ideal, but what’s the reality, and are you sabotaging that very perfection you seek? Are you trying to do everything yourself?

never mind the impossible reproduction of perfection. time to create a strategic plan for the 12 days before christ-mas so that you can enjoy the actual 12 days of christmas. Forget the way of the martyr and start by trashing your two favorite mantras: “If I don’t do it no one else will” and “If I want something done right I have to do it myself.” Put col-laboration, cooperation and consensus into christmas and you’ll all have more fun in the process.

embrace the path of the manager and delegate! Given half the chance, your family members are perfectly capable of doing a lot of that christmas preparation stuff you’ve burdened yourself with over the years. Do you really want to be stringing up lights in the pouring rain all by yourself just before your guests arrive, choosing the last miserable little christmas tree in the garden centre because you ran out of time, or wrapping presents at three in the morning? even santa needs a little help!

Gather the family together and let them know that you’ll be doing things differently this year. take a pad of sticky notes and invite everyone to come up with things that need to be done leading up to christmas Day, like cooking, bak-ing, decorating, wrapping and anything else that comes to mind. Forget about putting major cleaning on the list: leave the rug shampooing and all that serious stuff until January when you’ll be glad for a good workout.

Avoid the temptation to assign tasks, because it will never work. take a deep breath and let each person choose what they want to do. of course, most things are more fun done together, so encourage teamwork. Unless you really want to fill all those stockings yourself, clone some santas. this is a perfect task for the older ones in the household. It might be a good idea for the manager (that’s you) to check in regularly just in case a little help is needed, not to mention encouragement. Be sure to lib-erally sprinkle the compliments about, because everyone

The Three "C's" to a Perfect Christmasby Linda M. Langwith

knows we work better when our efforts are valued.

When it comes to selecting a christmas tree, this is the perfect excuse for a family outing and a great exercise in achieving consen-sus. You may have to bridge the gulf between those who like their tree a little rough around the edges and those who prefer the mani-cured variety, but after all, you’ve been managing this team for years so it shouldn’t be too hard. Decorating the tree is a cooperative effort as well, and the perfect excuse to have a party and sample some of those delicious cookies created by the family elves.

so there you have it, the way to a perfect christmas: collaboration, cooperation and consensus. Merry christmas everyone!

Linda is the author of “The Golden Crusader,” a mystery/action novel published by Twilight Times Books. Check out her website at www.lindalangwith.com.


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Well, we made it to another holiday season which, for many, can be a very stressful time with all the gifts to buy, meals to plan and, of course, family to entertain. After going to the Vancouver coffee show this past fall, my coffee consumption went up … way up. For the first time since I started drinking coffee 30 years ago, I found myself looking for another cup at times of the day when I normally wouldn’t. I was even seeking drive-thru’s for a fix! I knew then that I needed help, so I decide to go "cold turkey," as they say: get off coffee altogether. I have written about the effects that coffee has on people numerous times, but in all honesty I’ve never even tried to quit coffee, so I decided to stop being a hypocrite and go for it!

Just to frame my true pain here: I loVe Coffee! there’s no other way to say it. It’s been my friend and warm companion … yes, I should get a life, but that’s not the point here! Before my increase in use, I typically drank six cups a day which, when I was doing straight americanos, was reasonable. A double shot of espresso (the basis of an americano) has only 80 mg of caffeine, compared with a 12-ounce drip coffee that has 200 mg. the trouble all started when I went down the path of drinking the ever-so-dangerous "shot in the dark," also known as a "red eye." this espresso-laced drip coffee not only tastes great: the caffeine levels reflect the name. I went from 480 mg of total caffeine intake per day (80 mg times six cups) to 1,500 mg! It was like consuming eight to 10 cans of Red Bull a day: not good.

the first week of going cold turkey was a little rough. I found myself substituting herbal teas and other warm drinks to distract me and fill the oral fixation that accompanies this social and chemically addictive substance. Damn this coffee: I had no idea it had such a hold on me. Aside from my energy levels being inconsistent, and not

socializing with friends as much as I normally do, the process of remaining caffeine-free went as well as I would have expected … except for the fact that I momentarily wanted to write a country song about the experience!?

In the end I went "cold turkey" for almost three weeks, which for me was powerful because I proved to myself that I could do it. It’s now December and I’m ready for christmas parties and coffee with friends over the holidays, and I reinforced two very important things: I loVe Coffee (in moderation), and cold turkey is for sandwiches between christmas and new Year's.Merry christmas and don’t buy friends stale coffee as a christmas present: they won’t forgive you … Steve out.

Going Cold Turkeyby Steve Sheppard

SMELL THE CoFFEE

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You have to admit: one of the funniest Seinfeld episodes this time of year was when George's dad created a new holiday called Festivus, which featured feats of strength and the joy-ful decorating of a stripper pole. the celebration is real: it was created by the dad of one of the show's writers back in 1966. It got me to thinking that Frank costanza wasn’t alone in his passion to take the same old holiday and shake it up like a box of broken bulbs.

traditions. Where did they come from anyway? they were spawned by people, just like you, out of a desire to celebrate the season in their own spe-cial way. When I was a kid, my mom had a ritual that saw us drag out an old battered case that held the earthly remains of an accordion that she used to “play” when she was a little girl. she would pump that sucker and glide her shortbread-covered fingers all over the keys, while occasionally hitting the right note. We would always get about three songs in, singing our hearts out to Silent Night, and the magic would abruptly end. Usually it was because I was bludgeoning my sister over the head with an Advent calendar or my mum was screaming bloody murder cause she got her hair caught in the ol' squeezbox.

We thought we’d ask a few of you what rituals you per-form every year that are uniquely yours, and you offered up some great ones. Bruce wakes up on the morning of the big day, gets his family and friends together and they make the trek out to Goldstream Park, where they break out the sticks and buns and have a christmas Day wee-nie roast. Are you kidding me? that’s awesome! And you gotta love this next one: Meredith and her two sisters put on their most comfy jammies and big bunny slippers on christmas eve and walk half a block to the 7-11 on the corner. Armed with straws, they dig into their annual christmas slurpees! While an ice cream headache may not be on everyone's wish list, sometimes the little things mean the most.

A good buddy of mine, Darin, looks forward to an all-out, no-holds-barred Ping Pong tournament at his mom's house, complete with trophies and bragging rights until the next year. He’s still stinging after last year's loss when his brother pinged his pong. Finally, living on the left coast leaves a little to be desired in the snow department, so one

saanich family heads out to Pearkes Rec centre. they aren’t going there for the skating … no way … they only have one thing on their minds: to play in the snow that the Zamboni leaves behind. so, if you see a snowman behind the rec centre on Boxing Day this year, you can thank Amanda and her kids.

When it comes down to it, it doesn’t really matter what unique thing you do every year but who you do it with.

these are the moments when memories are made and love is shared with the ones dearest to you. Merry christmas!

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.

Festivus for the Rest of Usby Michael Forbes

FoRbES & MARSHALL

24 Great Reasons to Shop inthe merchants of Sidney welcome you to come and enjoy this year’s

holiday shopping experience. Find that something special for her, for him, for the children and for your home right here along the lovely streets of Sidney by the Sea.

You’ll find that our diverse range of unique small businesses offer personalized services to take the best care of you – our valued customer.

Warm wishes for a happy and healthy holiday season from the merchants and staff of the shops in Sidney.

mineralworld.ca9808 Seaport Place

the new jewellery store at Mineral World

Bring in this ad and receive 15% o� next your purchase.*

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778.426.0479 www.missbliss.ca

2389 Beacon Sidney, B.C.

waiting for you at

Blissful HolidayDresses

#104 - 2537 Beacon Ave 250.656.1358 [email protected]

Papyrus Cards & Gifts

• Handmade• Machine Washable• Functional• Unique and Trendy Designs

Available at:

Eminence is back at Haven Spa & Salon. Come check out our exciting new

Eminence facials. Don’t just shop foreveryone else... shop for you!

You talked,we listened!

To book your appointmentCall 250-655-9797

Open Monday – Saturday9 am – 6 pm

Sidney Pier Spa • Seaside Times Shop Sidney AdSize: 2.6” (w) x 3.65” (h) • Rough 1 • Oct 17/11

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Sidney this Holiday Season

All these great shops and free parking too! Shopping Sidney this holiday season really is simple!

free publicparking

N

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Map by John Webber [email protected]

7

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Beacon & Fourth in Sidney8 am – 9 pm Daily! 250.656.2345

Stacks of new releases for the holiday season!Over 1,000 calendars!

Gift giving is in the bag …

PREPARED FOR: TANNER’S BOOKSPUBLICATION: SEASIDE TIMES INSERTION DATE: DECEMBER

SIZE: 2.6” X 3.65”PREPARED BY: BRAVO ADVERTISING 250.590.1169 bravoadvertising.ca

Baden-BadenBoutique Ltd.

2485 Beacon AveSidney, BC, Canada V8L 1X8

Tel: 250-655-7118 Fax: 250-655-4484www.badenbadenboutiques.com

Sidney, BC V8L 1X3Tel: 250-655-0372

Sidney, BC V8L 2X4Tel: 250-655-0372Fax: 250-655-7752

2392 Beacon AveBarbara’s

#104-9840 5th StBarbara’s Showroom

Cruise Wear

Please visit our Travel Section at Barbara’s

Featuring Dunes Relaxed Fashion

cards&

giftsYou bring the moments, we’ll bring the words.

Affordable and Distinguished Gifts!

The Peninsula’s Source for Cards!

2449B Beacon Avenue, Sidney, B.C.(across from Tanner’s Books)

250-656-43162424 Beacon Ave, Sidney 250.656.1002www.sweettalkandlacelingerie.ca

available at

BrasPantiesCami’s

Warm, Cozy

Nighties, Robes & PJ’s

New Christmas Stock Arriving!

Shop Early for the Best Selection

2432 Beacon Ave, Sidney 250.656.7141 www.christinelaurentjewellers.ca

Jewellery & Giftware Diamonds•Gold

SterlingSilver•Earrings

Bracelets•Pendants

Crystal•Giftware

JewelCases

4 5 6

10 11 12

1111

www.buddiestoys.ca

Sidney Store2494 Beacon Ave, Sidney

250.655.7171

Oak Bay Store2533 Estevan Ave, Victoria

250.595.6501

Discover Buddies … a great little toy

store!

Warm for the Holidays

Wall Mount &Free Standing Towel Warmers

Flush Bathroom Essentials #102-2537 Beacon Ave Sidney, BC 250.655.7732 www.FlushBath.ca

Sidney, 2506 Beacon Ave. Victoria, 1437 Store St.

Details at: muffetandlouisa.com

Dualit toasters a beautifully DesigneD icon

for your home.

Handbuilt in the UK.

Late night shopping starts soon!

Muffet & Louisa has aLL the Best gifts!

dragon horse- unique cards & gifts -

2408 Beacon Avenue, Sidney250.656.3088 www.dragonhorse.com

A Candy Store for the Spirit

Knickerbocker’sKnickerbocker’sHome Accents & Gifts

brentwood bAy @ trAfAlGAr squAre250-544-8211

www.knickerbockers.ca

sidney @ tHe pier Hotel & spA 250-656-5506

victoriA @ broAdmeAd villAGe 250-658-5578

24 Great Reasons to Shop in13 14 15

19 20

for the season

The Dancing Orchid2416 Beacon Avenue 250.656.1318

[email protected]

21

the merchants of Sidney welcome you to come and enjoy this year’s holiday shopping experience. Find that something special for her, for him, for the children and for your home right here along the lovely streets of Sidney by the Sea.

You’ll find that our diverse range of unique small businesses offer personalized services to take the best care of you – our valued customer.

Warm wishes for a happy and healthy holiday season from the merchants and staff of the shops in Sidney.

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the community Art centre in tulista Park, sidney is now in its fourth year and becoming recognized for the diverse range of shows it presents. During 2011 we have enjoyed "small expressions" Artisans traditional and contemporary Arts show, along with exhibits by groups and individuals. Last spring Parkland students' work was showcased, and this fall, the outstanding show and exhibit by First nations and Métis artists was attended by over 3,000 visitors.

now, at the centre until Dec. 23rd, a variety of artists have joined together to display their work for the christmas season in the Artisans christmas Gift Gallery.

sculptor nathan scott’s piece, Small Boy, immediately captures your attention as you enter the show. this work could be the inspiration for a gift of garden art. tobias tomlison has entered urns and bowls that make a strong statement in pottery and, in delicate porcelain, are Ruby simrose’s floral earrings. You will find favourite jewellers – silver by Doreen schneider, glass by christopher Windsor and beaded work by Georgia. Wood turners Phil cottell and Barrie Baptie have interpreted beautifully-grained wood as bowls and other objects. Johanne Byskov offers baskets that she has woven, many of them using willow that she grows in her garden.

Fabric arts are well represented. In the window of the centre you will see hand-woven linen transparencies by Diane thorp, perfect for dressing up a window that needs a little privacy or some decoration. Kathy Demchuk’s whimsical quilts, tea cozies and puppets all have an appealing owl theme. Peggy Farrie's quilted kitchen items are always popular and an easy gift to mail. this year she has also done evening bags in tapestry prints! Fabric artist Heather corbitt has "art to wear" and wild silk scarves. nan Beall-Fahlman has brought in lovely silk devore scarves too.

Perhaps you are looking for an original painting, and the show is pleased to have work hanging by Pauline Martland, sandy Bligh, Rose Davidson, silvi cottell and Keith Levang … all artists that have been represented in the sidney Fine Art show. Artisans christmas Gift Gallery has much to offer: fine work by artists from our local community.

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Good Debt Versus Bad Debt: An Age-Old battle

Look over your credit card statement and you may see something like the following:

Time to PayIf you make only the Minimum Payment each month,

we estimate it will take 23 year(s) and 11 month(s) to fully repay the outstanding balance. Our estimate is based on the New Balance shown on this statement and your current credit card account terms.

twenty-three years and 11 months!? Wow. sadly, this may be a stark reality facing people in your life – perhaps family members, perhaps even yourself. A typical interest rate charged by the major credit card companies in canada is approximately 19.99% and recent legislation has encouraged them to provide better disclosure when it comes to your credit card balance. the result: paragraphs like the one above. Most of us know that if you regularly pay off your balance in full then you needn’t worry about this high charge against your monthly credit card purchases. the key here: if you regularly pay your balance in full. It may be the case that this simply isn’t possible for some folks due to unforeseen events like a sudden job loss or medical emergency. It might be argued, though, that the vast majority of canadians carrying a balance on their credit cards are doing so because they’ve overspent and are unable or unwilling to get themselves caught up.

now, I’m not your mother, and I’m not in the business of soapbox lectures about paying your bills on time, but as someone who has some experience with debt and its many different flavours, I’d like to take this opportunity to dialogue a bit about how I think debt ought to be managed by my fellow canadians.

We are influenced by our parents' behaviours – both the good and the bad. It’s true too, that our parents most likely were influenced by their parents and so on up the family tree – it has been ever thus. this is true in regards to debt and our attitudes toward it. Most are taught early on that debt is a nasty scourge to be avoided at all costs and any debt, however reluctantly incurred, should be paid off in full in as quick a manner as possible – a noble endeavour and one that ought to be pursued to be sure.

or ought it?

the reality of the debt landscape in canada is that debt

as we know it is really a Jekyll and Hyde type of animal: it has a good side and a bad side. Getting to know the good side, heck even embracing the good side, might serve to leave you better off than you thought you were, allowing for a rosier outlook on those long winter nights ahead.

We all know Bad Debt (aka Hyde): this is your credit card debt, your debt used for consumption. this is the debt to be avoided, and taking on debt of this nature is to be carefully considered in the context of the family budget. What most canadians don’t really grasp is Good Debt (aka Jekyll): this is debt that the Government of canada has deemed to be tax deductible. It is a fact that if you borrow money and invest that borrowed money in a business, an investment property, or the stock market among other things, the Government of canada will reward you for participating in the economy in such a fashion by allowing you to deduct the interest expense of your borrowing. this is fancy banker-talk for the amount of money it costs to borrow the funds: the interest payments. the wealthy know this, and have been practising the art of borrowing to invest in this fashion for many a year – it’s likely what has helped make them wealthy.

How does it Work?When I borrow money and invest that money with

a reasonable expectation of making a profit, I can turn around and deduct the cost of the borrowing.

For example: assume I’ve borrowed $10,000 and my interest rate is 10%. the cost to me to borrow this money if I only pay my interest is $1,000 per year. If I’ve borrowed this money to take a trip to Mexico, then I’ve used it to consume and I’ll have to continue to pay my $1,000 each year I don’t pay off the principle amount – the $10,000. I have also used this borrowed money to buy an asset which declines in value over time. this is Bad Debt.

now assume I’ve borrowed the same amount: $10,000, same interest rate of 10% and still have to pay my $1,000 every year except I’ve borrowed this money to invest. then we see the power of good debt start to work its magic: because I’ve borrowed the money to invest, the Government of canada is happy, because I’m contributing to the growth of the economy and the economic betterment of canada as a country. this is Good Debt. My reward for this decision is to get a tax refund at the end of the year.


Convert your mortgage interest into tax deductions!

Thousands of Canadians have learned how to utilize The Smith Manoeuvre to convert their mortgage interest into tax

deductions which they receive every year for the rest of their life. For instance, mortgage interest of $10,000 per year gets

converted into a $10,000 tax deduction, and those deductions produce

tax refund cheques, year after year,

for you and your family.

This strategy was developed

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If you would like to arrange a

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In most towns and cities around the world, you will be able to find a local Chamber of Commerce. This organization is where many of the businesses in the local trading area have built a hub to assist in representing the common interests of business in their local community.

From an office on Beacon Avenue in Sidney, the Saanich Peninsula Chamber of Commerce holds forth to represent about 2,000 businesses in Central and North Saanich as well as Sidney. A working board of about 25 local citizens meet monthly to do their bit to help make this part of the world even better through the lens of the business community.

About 500 of those 2,000 companies are members of the Chamber, and pay modest annual dues, scaled to reflect the size of the business, for the privilege of participating in the effort for our community. In return, they receive a long and comprehensive list of services for their own business. There are huge industrial and commercial interests who are members, but even more are single-person, home-based businesses.

It's virtually certain that your company, large or small, will benefit by being part of this wonderful organization, so please take the time to visit the website (www.peninsulachamber.ca) to see what is on offer, then call the office at 250-656-3616 to arrange a chat. You'll be glad you did.

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In this example if my marginal tax rate is, say, 40% then I’m entitled to a refund of $400. I have purchased an item that will likely increase in value over time and the true cost of the borrowed money is only $600. not bad for taking on some debt with an expectation of making a profit, no less.

so you see there are in essence two types of debt, both of which have very different temperaments: the bad debt, which is a debt to be avoided; and the good debt, a debt that if embraced responsibly in the proper

fashion may serve to provide an additional income stream come tax time every year.

the bonus in all of this is that this debt will continue to provide a tax refund each and every year that the investment and debt is held – forever.

Debt of this nature, deductible debt, isn’t for everyone but, having been around the block a time or two, I can tell you that it's a nice feeling to receive what I like to call my "bonus

cheque" from the taxman every year and know that the reason I have received it is because I have accrued valuable assets. An even better feeling: knowing I get to find a way to spend it.

If you’re interested in learning more about the power of the deductible debt and what borrowing to invest might be able to do for you, give LuAnn a call at 250-656-7077 or visit www.smithman.net. You’ll be glad you did.


sk Jamie Hargreaves what she most valued about her three weeks in the Arctic, and she’ll give you a mile-wide smile and say “everything – the science, the beauty and, of course, the

people! It was all simply incredible.”

the grade 11 Parkland student was one of nine selected from across canada to spend two weeks on board the ccGs Amudsen, canada’s state-of-the-art research icebreaker, as part of the schools on

by Susan Simosko

Arctic Adventure for Parkland Student

ABoard Field Program sponsored by the University of Manitoba. Jamie, along with the other students and two teachers, lived and worked with world-class research scientists. “It was just amazing,” says Jamie. “there was so much to learn!"

During her trip, Jamie assisted the researchers in collecting data related to contaminants, marine life, geology and a range of other topics, all to help us understand the impact of climate change. “You have no idea how much diversity in marine life there is in the Arctic,” says Jamie. “We brought up so many small organisms from the sea floor; sometimes the scientists didn’t even know exactly what they were. But they're all part of our food chain and we have so much to learn about them. Pretty cool, don’t you think?”

While learning about Arctic research was the main focus of the trip, Jamie said the beauty of the Arctic was inspirational. “I’ve never seen sunrises and sun-sets like those we got to witness,” she enthuses.

“A really exciting part of the trip,” says Jamie quite wistfully, “was spotting a beluga whale. It

was so cool.” she was also excited to see several bowhead whales which are found only in the Arctic or sub-Arctic. “the bowhead is massive,” says Jamie. “It can have up to 45 centimetres of blubber to protect it from the icy water. It has a really big head with two blowholes so it can push up through the thick ice to breathe. Pretty amazing!”

Anyone who doubts the impact of climate change should check in with Jamie. “Because of climate change, polar bears are now mating with grizzly bears,” Jamie reports. “All sorts of creatures are moving further north because of the milder temperatures and of course creatures from the north have to adapt to warmer temperatures on land and water in order to survive.”

she adds: “the biggest impact of climate change may be on the people who live in the north: they used to be able to predict the weather a week in advance to plan their hunting trips, but now, well, they are lucky if they can predict the weather in an hour. It’s really sad because their whole way of life is being altered.”

the trip included spending time in Kugluktuk and getting to know students from the local high school. Jamie says this was one of the best parts of the trip. “Meeting kids my own age and realizing how they thrive in an environment unimaginable to most of us was very special.”

other highlights for Jamie included experiencing the Amudsen breaking through an ice field, witnessing an area of peat and sulfur that scientists say has been burning for thousands of years, and taking a video during particu-larly rough seas. on top of all this, the truly best part was meeting all the people – the scientists, crew, other students from schools on Board and the people from Kugluktuk. “But,” says Jamie, “I’ve got to add to that list all the incredible people here in sidney, including my parents, friends, teachers and business supporters, who helped to make this trip possible for me.”

Neil Laing – 250-656-2919 Jim Laing – 250-652-2923

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A Match Made in Heaven …

this is the final prerequisite before we start to pair wine and food. Hang in there!

acidity is characteristic of citrus fruits, vin-egars and goat cheese. strangely, acidic foods lower the perception of acid in wines and there-

fore complement each other … as long they bal-ance in acid concentrations.

Bitterness is found mainly in green vegetables such as broccoli and especially endive. Bitter foods

pair poorly with bitter or astringent wines. the bitter-ness components combine and become overpowering.

saltiness is characteristic of cheeses, especially parmesan cheese. salt accentuates the perception of sweetness, bitterness and alcohol while decreasing astringency. salt creates “mouth feel” and can make

thin wines taste fuller in body.

sweetness, typically desserts, brings out the fruit in wines but also turns dry wines thin and flabby. It

increases bitterness and acidity. sweet foods pair well with sweet wines, but the wine must always be sweeter than the food.

spiciness in foods demands sweet wines. Wines high in alcohol, dry and acidic or astringent will emphasise the spice in your foods. sugar calms spicy foods; next time you eat thai or Indian food and you feel like you will burst into flames … try a late harvest or ice wine.

My next amazing article won’t be published until 2012. When you serve that turkey this christmas, Go cRAZY! serve a fruity, non-tannic pinot noir with the bird and ice wine with dessert. You will get bigger and better presents next year. I guarantee it! Cum eggnog, dum vivit vinum.

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You could be here for the HolidaysEvery day is a great day at Amica at Beechwood Village,yet when the holiday season is upon us there is a strongerfeeling of warmth and friendship that only this season canbring. We invite you to consider making your move before the holidays, so you can settle in and enjoy thewonderful services, amenities and events. Make Amica your new home for the Holidays.

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Please call 250.655.0849 to arrange a tour of our community and stay for

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December Weather Forecastby Steve Sakiyama

WEATHERWIT

I’ve fallen and I don’t want to get up.

I teach meteorology at Royal Roads University, and at the beginning of the year the faculty are formally introduced to the incoming cohort of eager students. this is very important – contrary to my normal state of being I must be very dignified and smart – first impressions are lasting.

I arrived harried and late to the introduction event, so I hurried to the long table where the distinguished faculty were seated – only to discover there were no extra seats. In a brilliant stroke of genius, I thought “I’ll go to the far end, sit down on the edge of the table and enjoy the view.”

At the precise moment when I was called to introduce myself, I sat down on the table, only to find there was a shocking lack of structural support. the table acted like a perfect teeter-totter, with the far end tipping high into the air and my end (anatomically speaking) going down in free fall. With a clatter and flying papers, I managed to keep my feet – but with my limbs flailing like somebody learning the squatting parts of Russian folk dancing, it wasn’t pretty. the view of the floor wasn’t particularly pretty either.

the class and faculty burst into laughter, and as I stood up and gathered myself I said: “I’m here to teach you.”

We all blow it – sometimes spectacularly, but we are here to teach each other.

speaking of falling things with odd shapes, did you know that falling raindrops look nothing like teardrops? they are actually shaped like an inverted hamburger bun – the force of the air on the falling drop makes it spread width-wise. Raindrops can also be tiny or large, and a single rain event can have a wide variety of sizes. this discovery was

made by Wilson Bentley, an early pioneer in raindrop (and snowflake) research. He would catch raindrops on plates covered with a layer of flour – each would form a doughy blob which he would later carefully extract and measure. Unreliable sources tell me that he invented timbits after accidently dropping the dough blobs in hot oil.

so what will the raindrop situation be in December? Well, La nina will be in full bloom through January so the table will tip to a greater chance of wetter than normal conditions – although temperature-wise, this is no strong bias to warmer or cooler. contrary to some earlier dire forecasts of a very wet and cool winter, the current thinking is that La nina’s influence on our winter weather will range from weak to moderate.

of course, December's special day is christmas, so my sentimental forecast for the night of the 25th is a starry sky, symbolic of the peace for all of us who are harried and late, and have fallen from too many tippy tables in life. sit down, look up and enjoy the view.

~ Weatherwit.

Questions or comments? Please email [email protected]. For a humorous Victoria weather forecast, visit www.weatherwit.wordpress.com.

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• Purchasing or renewing • Mortgages for the self-employed• Refinancing for renovations or investments • Debt consolidation to control interest costs

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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 colour-ful history. Although these conversations are merely creative figments of my imagination, they are all based on fact.

Did you know that the saanich Pen-insula once had its very own “Father christmas?” Reverend christmas was a well-known figure on the Peninsula when he served as pastor at st. stephen’s Anglican church from 1890 until 1901. Although often controversial, he was also well-loved in the community.

InterVIeWer: Reverend christmas, where were you originally from?

CHrIstmas: I was born in Jersey in the channel Islands in 1854 and arrived on Vancouver Island in 1888, settling here in central saanich.

I: When did you become the pastor at st. stephen’s Anglican church?

C: two years later in 1890.

Conversations from thePast – Father Christmas

by valerie Green

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I: How large was your parish then?

C: It was very large, stretching from elk Lake to the north end of the saanich Peninsula. It also encompassed two Hous-es of Worship – st. stephen’s and Holy trinity at Patricia Bay.

I: that must have been a lot of work for one Minister?

C: Yes, it certainly was, but we managed somehow. My wife and I lived in the rectory on Mount newton cross Road on five acres of land donated by the thomson family, one of the original pioneering families in the area.

I: tell me something about your family.

C: My wife and I had four children: emily Grace, Richard, Wilfred and Muriel, born between 1881 and 1897. (He paused for a moment as though collecting his thoughts.) We had a family tragedy last year when our son Richard was killed during the May 24th long weekend festivities.

I: I am so very sorry. Would you rather not discuss that?

C: no, I can tell you the story. Richard was playing with a group of other young people who were imitating

various animals. Richard had dressed up as a bear and was crawling along a log when he was mistaken for the real thing and was shot by a friend.

I: How very tragic.

C: Yes, for our family and for the family of his friend. It was the reason that we decided to leave the Peninsula last year.

I: (I realized we should change this heart-breaking subject.) can you tell me about your other pursuits while at st. stephen's?

C: Well, I was a keen fly-fisherman and a hunter, and I also bred poultry. Whenever I conducted these pursuits on the sabbath I was criticized. I suppose I was at fault for doing so.

I: But I know you are still thought of as a kind, generous man. often you were seen trudging along the road late at night taking a sack of flour or some other food to a parishioner in need.

C: (He smiled.) Just doing my christian duty … nothing more. In those days, there was no railway between saanich and Victoria so we often had to walk into Victoria (14 miles) and back for our supplies, or go by simpson’s horse stage.

I: thank you for talking with me, sir.

(After their son’s tragic death, the christmas family moved to Duncan where Father christmas later died. His name in the Parish of st. stephen’s, however, was long remembered.)

Valerie Green is an author and historian and can be reached at [email protected]. Photo courtesy Saanich Pioneer Society Archives.

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in Sidney!Make a purchase at one of these local retailers and enter to win* a $1,500 shopping spree at the

fabulous shops of Sidney!Bubba Loo Children's Wear Gifts & ToysBuddies ToysCameron RoseCanada ScootersChristine Laurent Fine Jewellery & Giftsd.g.bremner & co.Dig ThisDonatello's Dragon Horse Flush Bathroom EssentialsHaven Spa

Hemp and CompanyIn Touch Cards & GiftsKnickerbocker's Seaside Marmalade TartMineral WorldMuffet & LouisaPapyrus Cards & GiftsRiverbank DesignSweet Talk & LaceThe Dancing OrchidWaterlily Shoes, Bags and Accessories

Look in the January issue of Seaside Times to find

out if you're our LuCKy WInnER!

* one entry per personcontest deadline Dec. 18th

to show our appreciation for your valued business, your local merchants are working together to bring the streets of sidney to life this holiday season!

Look for your "Passport to the north Pole" around town, collect 12 stamps on your passport by making 12 unique purchases at participating locations during the 12 days before christmas (December 12th through December 23rd), then enter your completed passport in the ballot box at the sidney Pier Hotel & spa for a chance to win a $250 gift certificate to Haro's Restaurant! Participating locations will be staying open till 8 p.m. to help make shopping this season simpler!

For more information and a list of participating businesses, please visit www.mypeninsula.ca.

Wishing you health and happiness this holiday season!

sincerely,

The Merchants of Sidney

12 Days of Christmas at Sidney Merchants!

Acrylic Nails by Julia

250-896-1699 " ju [email protected]

Winter Special: FullSet$40 Fill$20 Manicure$20 (handmassage,polish)

MiniMani$8

www.seasidetimes.ca 42 SEASIDE TIMES

the Latch may just be the best-kept secret on the Peninsula! How many restaurants cook their own bread, make their own pasta and create fresh sauce from scratch with veggies from their own garden?

How many restaurant owners do all the cooking themselves, treating customers to a sumptuous,

regal dining experience? Answer: the Latch Inn & Restaurant is that rare place where you get all this royal treatment and much much more. the Latch is a genuine experience in the ecstasy of eating food that is so splendid and so pure, your senses will never recover.

Built in 1925, the building was the private summer

Culinary Ecstasy! The Latch Inn & Restaurant by Doreen Marion Gee

residence of Walter c. nichol – Lieutenant-Governor of British columbia from 1920 to 1926. Patrons now see the very same rich wood exteriors and interiors as visiting royalty and local mucky-mucks enjoyed in their lush garden parties back in the 1920s. on the outside structure, sunlight still dances on thick fir slabs – covered with the original bark – and mammoth tree trunks forming the porches and balconies. the musky library of this grand old manor is straight out

of a Fitzgerald novel, with ghosts in velvet smoking jackets hobnobbing and debating about world affairs. It was converted to a restaurant in 1970.

Luigi cisotto and his wife, Valeria seichei, give me a warm Italian welcome with fragrant coffee and a homemade criossant. these two charming, personable people want to extend a huge "thank you" to all of their faithful local patrons of the past six years. owners of

The Latchthe latch inn & restaurant • sidney

• 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

Discover a British Columbia Heritage Home

2328 Harbour Rd, Sidney250.656.4015

[email protected] www.latchinn.ca

202-9800 McDonald Pk Rd North Saanich 250.665.7353www.rcgrillhouse.com

Wishing You and Your Family a Safe and Happy Holiday Season

GLOBAL FLAVOURS O LOCAL TASTES

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

ZanzibarO BreakfastO LunchO DinnerO Espresso

OpenTues~Saturday 730 - 4Thurs, Fri, Sat 530 - 830

43DECEMbER 2011

the Latch since 2005, the couple brings a wealth of experience to the job. Luigi worked in his father’s restaurant in Italy and then for 21 years as a maître d’ on the Princess cruise ships. Valeria cooked in Bucharest’s fine dining rooms and eventually became sous chef on the same cruise ship line. the couple offers continental dining with an Italian twist in daily dinners, private parties and weddings. For that romantic getaway, their Inn has six luxurious rooms.

“We want people to know that we are here,” remarks Luigi. the supreme quality of this dining experience definitely sets it apart from the same old, same old – especially when the owners roll up their sleeves and do all the daily dinner cooking. the only time the cisottos hire extra cooks is when they have large parties.

their biggest selling point is the fact that everything is homemade: gelato, bread, pastries, desserts, sauces, pasta – just for starters. no powders or processed food lurk

here. natural organic veggies from their garden melt in your mouth. Luigi says that their guests are treated like family, with friendly “a la minute” service – cooked fresh beside your table. For a restaurant of this stature, prices are amazingly low. With full hearty plates, Luigi promises that diners will leave “satisfied.”

spectacular oceanside views and elegant ambience turn the Latch Inn & Restaurant into a local treasure just waiting to be relished.

“People always come back,” the couple proudly state. small wonder.

Check out These Great Peninsula Restaurants!

www.spitfiregrill.ca 250-655-0122 • 9681 Willingdon Rd, Sidney

Monday to Friday:Lunch: 11am - 4pm, $11. 95

Dinner: 4pm - close, $15. 95

December FeaturesA Taste of Italy

Regional recipes for your dining pleasure:Penne Ariabiatta,

Tortellini Afumierat Penne Mediteranean

Open Tues - Sun 11:30am - late night5285 West Saanich Rd, Victoria

250- 479- 6612 www.saanichroadhouse.ca

New Year’s Eve1st Seating 5-8pm $30 includes 3-Course Dinner & Live Music

2nd Seating 8:30pm - late $65 includes 4-Course Dinner, Champagne at Midnight, Live Music, Free Shuttle (if necessary & local)

Seafood & Sushi Redefined.

Visit the Seagrille to experience our fresh approach to seafood & sushi in Victoria’s most spectacular seaside setting…Enjoy our Chef’s seasonally inspired menu with ingredients harvested from the sea and grown fresh on Vancouver Island. Watch our highly trained Japanese Sushi Chefs create a truly authentic “West Coast” sushi experience.

S E A F O O D & S U S H 1AT B R E N T WO O D B AY R E S O RT

849 VERdIER AVE 250.544.2079 WWW.BREntWoodBAyRESoRt.Com


Sidney Pier Spa • Seaside Times Dec 2011 • Size: 7.75” (w) x 4.925” (h) • Final • Nov 18/11

& 9805 Seaport Place, Sidney, British ColumbiaTo book your appointment call 250-655-9797

Open Monday – Saturday 9 am – 6 pm

We are pleased to announce that Alana Delcourt andFresh Esthetics Studio are moving to Haven Spa!

Haven Spa and Fresh Esthetics Studio; luxury treatments without the luxury price tag.

A match made in Haven!

Festive Mani-Pedi Combo — $70Shampoo, Style and Make-Up Application — $60

Home of simply the best classic esthetics

Decorate yourself

this holiday Season! mbo — $70

103-2537 Beacon Avenue (in the Cannery building)Sidney 250.656.5606 [email protected]

381-5254, 652-4274 & 391-4770Victoria, Saanichton & LangfordHillside, Keating &Millstream

Pacific Paint


Enhance Your Career Prospects With Social Mediaby Chris burdge

today we’re talking about LinkedIn, the social media site of choice for pro-fessionals, with over 100 million regis-tered members. of the big three social networks: LinkedIn, Facebook and

twitter – LinkedIn is the oldest and the only business-oriented social network.

LinkedIn (www.linkedin.com) has become critical to building a network and crafting a personal brand than can open doors to job opportunities at select employ-

ers. But having a LinkedIn profile isn't enough – leverage the following tips to get a leg up on the competition.

Have you Googled Yourself lately?

If you have a completed LinkedIn profile, chances are it will appear in the top five search results. this allows you to control the first impression people get when searching for you online, an important aspect of any job search. even if you’re not cur-rently seeking employment, LinkedIn is the one social network you can continually use to boost your career prospects.

Here are five tips to enhance your personal "brand" and find new prospects on LinkedIn:

1. Complete your profile. Your profile is how you get found on LinkedIn and the first thing prospective employers may read about you. the more detailed and up-to-date your pro-file is, the better the chance you will be found and contacted. complete your profile as carefully as you would your resumé and provide detailed information on your skills, experience and accomplishments. Users with completed profiles are 40 times more likely to receive opportunities through LinkedIn!

2. Basic Information and summary. Within the “basic information” section, be sure to select an industry, because recruiters often use that field when searching for candidates. create a “headline” that properly brands you. the headline is the single most important piece of real estate on your pro-file and appears at the top of the page when someone views your profile and shows up in Google searches – it’s your first chance to make a good impression.

3. Website and twitter links. the “Links” section of your profile is a good way to provide even more information to potential employers and your contacts. If you have a blog, twitter account or a website, include those links.

4. Your public profile and url. Don’t forget to make your profile public – that’s how the world can find it. You can cus-tomize which portions of your profile are displayed to the public. You can also customize your URL to give you a link that’s easy to share and shows up well in searches.

5. Grow Your network. the more connections you have, the more opportunities you open yourself up to. connect with colleagues from current and previous employers, clients and people you’ve done business with and people you went to school with or have had some sort of business or academic affiliation, but be careful not to connect with people you don’t know.

stay top of mind with potential employers by being active with LinkedIn status updates. Keep the content relevant and always add value. Remember, LinkedIn is a tool. Your invest-ment in understanding how to best use it will determine the value you get out of it.

You can find more tips and advice on social media strategy on Chris’ blog at www.bwest.ca/blog.

TWEET THIS!

Join us at the 6th annual First Night New Year’s Eve celebration! Enjoy live music by a local band as well as numerous activities including swimming, skating, arts & crafts, inflatable obstacle course, bouncy castle and a giant movie screen playing holiday classics. We’ll end the night with a Fireworks Finale at 9pm!

FIRSTNIGHT

New Year’s EveFamily Celebration

www.panoramarecreation.ca 250.656.7271

Tickets Now On SaleBy Dec 30thAdult $11Child/Student (6 - 18yrs) $7Child (0 - 5yrs) Free

On Dec 31stAdult $15Child/Student (6 - 18yrs) $11Child (0 - 5yrs) Free

Purchase your tickets

at Panorama Recreationor Tanner’s

Books in Sidney.

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Managing the World’s Most iMportant investMents:

yours!

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

susan dafoeinvestMent advisor [email protected]

#205, 2537 Beacon Avenue, Sidney 250.657.2224 • 1.866.678.2200

In this business… Experience

Matters!

order a Golden Lift Chair

Victoria: 1856 Quadra St1-888-265-4114

Sidney: 7 - 9764 Fifth St(250) 656-6228

victoria.medichair.com

Experience comfort, mobility and more independence in

a Lift/Recline chair from Golden Technologies.

this season

All on sale now!(until December 25th)

Welcome to CedarwoodTheBeautiful waterfront location on the Saanich Peninsula • Pet and child friendly

Daily, weekly and monthly rates • Free long-term parking availableAsk about our island resident rates and three-day specials

The Cedarwood Inn and Suites – Your Home away from Home9522 Lochside Drive, Sidney, British Columbia

250-656-5551 • 877-656-5551 • www.thecedarwood.ca


Wrapping paper is the largest component of waste produced at christmas. of course, christmas might be a little less exciting if presents weren’t wrapped at all, but finding creative ways to avoid traditional wrappings this christmas is one small step toward a healthier ocean.

the following green, or “blue” tips will help lessen your environmental impact this holiday season.

Alternatives to traditional wrapping paper come in many forms. Among them are reusable cloth

or paper bags or wrapping with colourful comics, magazines, newspaper or old calendar pictures. Why not wrap a gift with a second gift – a new dish towel, beach towel or scarf. Adorn the tops of packages or bags with natural decorations: holly, pine boughs or herbs. Last year’s christmas cards can be recycled into gift tags.

Customize a fabric gift bag with a fish print at the Shaw Ocean Discovery Centre on December 4th and 11th from 1 to 4 p.m. Bring your own cloth bag and a $2 donation for fabric paint. December 19th and 20th from 1 to 4 p.m., create fish wrapping paper by reusing your brown paper grocery bags.

Give the gift of an experience. Avoid factory-made dust collectors that have flown thousands of

kilometres to reach store shelves by purchasing a certificate for a whale-watching trip, a massage, a cooking class, a theatre or symphony ticket, an art workshop, an eco-cruise with sidney eco-cruising or simply a night at the movies.

think local when planning your holiday dinner. order a free range turkey from a local market or

straight from the farmer; buy local winter vegetables such as potatoes, carrots and beets and use crisp fall apples for your pies and stuffing. support lower Vancouver Island and Gulf Islands wineries and cideries for celebrations. ensure that you serve seafood labelled with the oceanwise certification and book your holiday party or event where oceanwise seafood is offered (www.oceanwise.ca).

show support for a friend or relative’s favourite organization, charity or species. Donate to an

environmental organization, adopt a killer whale at www.killerwhale.org or buy them a membership or annual pass to a museum or gallery. Annual passes and memberships are available for the shaw ocean Discovery centre.

Add refuse to your “reduce, reuse and recycle.” We aren’t talking about refusing a second helping of

turkey or one more butter tart – refuse the plastic shopping bag or the food or toy with excess packaging. Whatever you do, don’t refuse to believe that our choices make a difference.

the oceaneers at the shaw ocean Discovery centre wish you and your loved ones a safe, happy and ocean friendly holiday.

Tina Kelly is an ocean advocate at the Shaw Ocean Discovery Centre.

by Tina KellyI'm Dreaming of an Ocean Friendly Christmas

SEASIDE NEWS

2506 Beacon Ave., Sidney • 778.426.2146 • www.vibesfitness.ca

Vibes Fitness offers a low impact, 15-minute workout for all fitnesslevels guided by a certified trainer

Give the Gift of Fitness this Festive Season!

Call us now to learn about our holiday specials

All I Want for Christmas is …• Improved Strength, Power & Balance• Improved Muscle Tone & Core Strength• Weight Loss

Dentures Over Implants

All Dental Plans Accepted

The Denture Clinic

Ronald A. Postings, R.D. Robin Postings, R.D.

SIDNEY250-655-7009#3 - 2227 James White Blvd

(behind Thrifty Foods)

VICTORIA250-383-7227

3937 Quadra Street(2 blocks south of McKenzie)

Relines & Repairs

Full & Partial Dentures

Free Consultations

No Referral Necessary

New Patients Welcome


250.656.5441 1-2353 Bevan Ave, Sidney

[email protected]

Thank you for choosing Expedia

CruiseShipCenters Sidney

We wish you & yours a happy, healthy &

prosperous New Year

Orr’s Family Butchers

Established 1979

Order your Christmas Turkey or Ham Now!

British Christmas Puddings, Cakes & Treats are now in Stores

Voted Best Butcher Shop,Best Sausages on Vancouver Island

West Saanich & Wallace Trafalgar Square, Brentwood Bay

250-652-3751

Quadra & McKenzie 4011 Quadra St., Victoria

250-590-8067

Open Mon - Fri 9:30-5:30 Saturdays 9-4Sidney Location Now Open in the Landmark Building!

www.orrsbutchers.com

2356 Beacon Avenue, Sidney 250.656.2712

Dread Shopping for Holiday Gifts?Think About Doing

Your Christmas Shopping At Your

Local Hardware Store!More Than Just Hardware:

• gardening supplies• patio & BBQ gifts• sports accessories

• tools• toys• culinary and

kitchen supplies… and more

Delight everyone on your list!


Family get-togethers, par-ties, shopping, baking, decor-ating – it’s a busy time of year all right. How are we sup-posed to keep up any kind of exercise routine while get-ting ready for the holidays?

the answer is Vibes Fit-ness in sidney. In 15 min-utes, using one of their whole

body vibration (WBV) WAVe Pro elite exercise machines, you can achieve comparable benefits to a one-hour workout in the gym! Better yet, there’s no stiffness or soreness afterwards. sorry, santa’s elves, but this workout is no excuse for not climbing the ladder to put up the christmas lights!

surprisingly, we owe this technology to the Russian cosmo-nauts. the original vibration machines were developed by the Russians in the 1970s to maintain muscle and bone mass during space travel. the results were so positive that the training was extended to their elite athletes for the extra benefits of improved strength, balance, flexibility and increased blood circulation.

Also important during this season of fruitcake and rum-balls, the 3,000 gentle muscle contractions per minute pro-duced by the machine’s vibrations help build lean muscle mass which in turn burns calories resulting in weight loss. For best results, three 15-minute sessions per week are rec-ommended with improvement in wellness, fitness and vital-ity evident within four to six weeks.

Daughter and mother co-owners, Meghan Raza and Dawn Robertson, opened the Vibes Fitness studio in sidney last May. It’s tucked behind the saltspring Lavender shop in the

Landmark Building on Beacon Avenue.

the studio has three machines and Meghan or Dawn is always on site to offer one-on-one personal training and supervision.

“I’ve always been a gym-goer,” Meghan noted, “but when the owner of Vibes Fitness in Victoria offered me a free trial at her studio, I was hooked. I saw improvements in my fit-ness level within six weeks and significant weight loss with-in a year.

“Mom and I were keen to open a business together and saw a niche for this new way of exercising in sidney. We’ve had great success in building up our clientele in the seven months since we opened. sidney is a great fit for us.”

newcomers are given a complimentary one-week pass to try out the machines, talk over their fitness and health needs, and work up an individual fitness program. It’s best to book a session in advance by calling 778-426-2146 or by email at [email protected].

“our clients range in age from their '20s to their '90s,” Meghan advised. “the program works well for the busy lunch-time crowd because there’s no need to change clothes: business wear is just fine – no spandex required!”

WBV is recommended by Health canada as a low-impact therapy to fight against osteoporosis and can be an excellent alternative for those with injuries who cannot undertake a gym workout. the vibrations cause involuntary muscle con-tractions which promote faster healing and recovery times.

If you want to shake things up a bit with a new fitness routine, Vibes Fitness may be just the new Year’s Resolution for you!

There’s a Whole Lotta Shakin' Goin’ on in Sidney!

by Arlene Antonik

Professional Wealth Management Since 1901RBC Dominion Securities Inc.* and Royal Bank of Canada are separate corporate entities which are affiliated. *Member-Canadian Investor Protection Fund. ®Registered trademark of Royal Bank of Canada. Used under licence. RBC Dominion Securities is a registered trademark of Royal Bank of Canada. Used under licence. ©Copyright 2011. All rights reserved.

It’s not what you make, it’s what you keep Ask Deborah about low-risk, tax-efficient retirement income strategies to generate greater monthly income for your retirement lifestyle.

Deborah Reid, FMA, FCSI | Investment Advisor 250-655-2884 | 1-888-773-4477 | [email protected] | www.deborahreid.net

RBC DOMINION SECURITIES

Deborah reiD, FMA, FCSI

52 SEASIDE TIMES www.seasidetimes.ca

The holidays wouldn't be complete without the gift of several good books. The following novels, all with historical themes, can be found in local bookstores.

William Deverell’s I’ll See You in My Dreams is about former Vancouver criminal lawyer Arthur Beauchamp, now a resident of Gari-baldi Island. Arthur, while thumbing through his biography, comes across the details of his first murder trial. Gabriel swift, an aboriginal

activist and former handyman of professor Dermot Mul-ligan, was accused of killing him. In considering the 1962 case and the death of his mentor, Arthur realizes there are important unresolved issues and takes action.

Victoria’s high society during the 19th and early 20th cen-turies is the subject of Valerie Green’s novel, Above Stairs. We meet the crease, o’Reilly, Rithet, trutch, Dunsmuir and Douglas fam-ilies to name a few, families who experience a whirl of garden parties, picnics, balls, formal dinners and teas. In those days, there were outings on the Gorge waterway and horse

races in Beacon Hill Park. Vast quantities of food accom-panied these social gatherings, including such delicacies as reindeer milk, lemons from europe and fresh tins of oysters, at prices only Victoria’s first families could afford.

In Requiem, Frances Itani introduces readers to Bin okuma, a Japanese canadian artist who has lost his wife. on impluse,

Bin decides to take a road trip across canada. It’s an opportunity to complete some art pieces for exhibition which are overdue and perhaps revisit his family’s internment camp. Bin is estranged from his father living in Kamloops, who is asking for him, but based on an incident

from his childhood, Bin is ambivelent about visiting. Itani presents flashbacks of Bin’s youth with his family on the west coast of Vancouver Island, in the internment camp, and his early married life as he drives across canada.

Into the Silence by Wade Davis describes the events leading to the 1924 everest expedition by climbers George Mallory and sandy Irvine, who both die on the mountain. In documenting how the climb was planned and executed, Davis introduces the role of WWI, english imperialism and the political situa-

tions in India and tibet as providing impetus for the climb. He adds to the mix the importance of the British climbing clubs and British public schools and universities in selecting the men for the expedition. Davis provides meticulous detail on every stage of the reconnaissance climbs that led to the final 1924 expedition.

An American western with a twist, The Sisters Brothers by Pat-rick deWitt is set in california’s gold rush era. the novel follows brothers charlie and eli, hired assas-sins, as they pursue their intended target, Her-mann Kermit Warm. charlie, the elder and more ruthless of the two, is the designated lead man, a fact that rankles eli. eli is growing tired of their life and begins to consider other vocations. When the

brothers finally encounter Warm, there is an unexpected turn of events. the novel is a combination of brutality, light-hearted bickering and sensitive insights into eli’s character. the lighter, quirky moments, the slightly formal expression of the period, and characterization remind one of Lonesome Dove.

In Wonderstruck, his extraordinary children’s novel, Brian selznick uses a mix of text and images. there are two parallel stories and two time periods. one narrative is told exclusively with illustrations and the other in words. the prose story, which is set in the 1970s, features a deaf 12-year-old, Ben

Wilson, who becomes orphaned. He runs away to new York to pursue a clue he finds in his mother’s affects which he hopes will lead him to his father. He arrives at the Museum of nat-ural History. In the illustrative story which begins in 1927, Rose Kincaid, who is also deaf and a collector like Ben, runs away to new York to find her favourite actress. these narratives are juxtaposed until they converge in a happy ending.

Christmas With Authors by Sharon Hope

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BeACOn lAnding reStAurAnt & lOunge~ Savour the Season ~

Sidney’s favourite seaside restaurant unveils a new winter menu. We serve fresh, local, organic produce whenever possible and our quality beef and chicken is proudly Canadian. Our seafood choices are fresh, in season and made with sustainability in mind. The kitchen is open until 10:30 p.m. nightly.

Book your Christmas parties soon. Our private fireside room seats up to 18 and groups up to 40 are welcome in our restaurant . We have custom three-course menus available so please email us for details .

We now offer a Sunday Breakfast Buffet – join us from 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. (except Christmas Day)

Christmas Day Dinner – Seatings at 4 and 6 p.m.

Open on Boxing Day – Regular hours

New Year’s Eve – The guitar of Mike LeFebre and vocal jazz of Edie DaPonte 7-9 p.m.


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every year thousands of north Americans flock to the beach on new Year’s Day to dive into freezing water … polar bear style. some call it the plunge, others a dip and some even go so far as to call it a swim. I, however, call it madness! When I think of the beach and the ocean, my mind immediately conjures up the feeling of sun on my skin, the smell of sun-tan lotion and I can almost taste the margarita. I don’t want my trip to the beach to involve chattering teeth, goose bumps and hot chocolate! But, in almost every major city in can-ada, there is an annual Polar Pear swim and most have been occurring for many years. Vancouver’s Polar Bear swim club will be celebrating its 92nd swim in 2012! And it’s not just a few brave souls who venture forth … Vancouver can see over 1,000 people take the plunge! But why?

some believe these freezing dips are good for the system, and that the cold water induces a type of shock that kills the harmful bacteria in the body and leaves the beneficial, and hardy, bac-teria alive. they believe there's no need for a flu shot. one dip on the first and you’ll be healthy for the rest of the year. others feel winter swimming reduces the effects of aging … but I highly doubt we've found the fountain of youth in the Pacific ocean. there are those who say it's all worth it for the feeling of euphoria one feels once acclimated to the water: like a perfect warm-cold balance. I would venture to guess that it takes several minutes of gasping and yelling obscenities before that bliss is reached.

In the end, I think it’s about fun. Doing something a little crazy brings delight to your life, especially when you're doing it with others who feel that jumping out of their comfort zone and into the icy cold waters of the ocean is just what they need to kick-start a new year. In every photo you see of a polar bear swim, literally everyone is laughing. so in that case, maybe it does achieve all of the above. Having fun keeps us healthy, keeps us young and gives us a feeling of euphoria. I think I just talked myself into doing it … see you all on January 1st, 2012!

the 2012 Pcs Polar Bear swim begins at 11:30 a.m. on January 1st at Lochside Drive just past tulista Park.

by Lisa Makar, vice-president, Peninsula Celebrations Society.

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Dominique Alford of established Sidney law � rm Henley & Walden has extensive experience in Corporate and Commercial law matters. If you

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Overheard in a sidney coffee shop: “He hated being retired. Bored him stiff. Went back to his job. Had to take a pay cut, 10 bucks an

hour. He doesn't care, he's happy now and out from under my feet.”

on the other hand, 65-year-old Wayne Mcnab says: “I'd love to retire, but I haven't found anybody to pay me to do it.” He's only half joking. Without a pension, he needs the money, yet adheres to a per-sonal timetable that's fun. His working life is designed around sailing with his yoga teacher wife, Lee. At 59, she works at a part-time job and is a few years from retirement. the couple has two adult chil-dren and a young grandson.

Without the opportunity to go to uni-versity after graduating high school in 1963, Mcnab went straight into the engineering department at WV electron-ics Laboratories. there he learned every job from floor sweeper to running the entire business. He delights in calling himself an "empirical engineer."

"Way too much emphasis is put on academics; our experience is second-ary," he says. "We're a culture of theor-ists. Without theory we aren't accepted." He sounds more resigned than bitter: "It doesn't matter how much experience you have: if you can't back it up with an academic credential, it doesn't count. so it's often the one with the degree who is given all the credit."

Asking him about age and retirement launches Mcnab into a speech. He calls age a post-mainstream culture – no long-er contributing to the economy. Yet most retirees still have much to offer: after all, it's older people who've created what we have now, so why aren't we being asked to pass on our knowledge? Bring age into the circle of Life, in the sense that elders in most tribal cultures are revered and respected for what they know. they main-tain a sense of purpose, a sense of place, a

Late For Work by Trysh Ashby-Rolls

GREy MATTERS

sense of connection – all the things our mythology no longer honours.

We have this idea that once retired, that's it. Put us in a nursing home; wait for us to die. come on – barring unfore-seen circumstances – who wants to be an old person waiting to die? We 65s and over with our grey hair and story lines may appear to young fire-eaters coming out of tech school and univer-sity to be going down the tube. sure, they have the latest in gadgetry and learning. older people have a global perspective, a continuity of experience that spans decades. We see how young people's learning and skills fit the big-ger picture. For their part, youth has an exuberance from which age has much to learn. connection with youth influ-ences the older person who, in turn, is revitalized to connect with and influ-

ence youth. Watch grandparents at play with their smallest family members – undeniably, it's a symbiotic relationship.

Wayne Mcnab has never thought of age as a deterrent. the electronics firm he worked for left him without a pen-sion, but he refused to stay on the few extra years for that kind of carrot. He wanted freedom. now, working full-time at a beer and wine store, he’s got time and energy to do what he wants. When he wakes up in the morning, he's excited about the day ahead and what he's going to do with it. He likes to grease his mind with fresh ideas. “I even get caught drinking coffee sometimes,” he jokes. turning ser-ious again, he adds: “It's ingrained in so many people to think of retirement as the destination, rather than as the retirement journey.”

Live Music

Saturday, December 10th 9:30 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Presenting Sponsors :

104 - 1931 Mt. Newton X Rd. Over $1,000 in Prizes !

With Santa !Christmas Tree Trail !

10 - 2Pick up your Christmas Tree Trail map at Fresh Cup Roastery Café or St. Mary’s Church from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Visit each of the local businesses along the trail, collect a stamp at each location. Vote for your favourite tree & enter to win one

of many draw prizes worth over $1,000 !

7th AnnualSaanichton chriStmaS

community

Pancake Breakfast !

Free Photos

Community Partners :

Horse-Drawn Carriage Rides ! 10:30 - 1:30

Two cozy Christmas carriages will make their way around the Saanichton Village, picking up and dropping off people along the Christmas Tree Trail.

9:30 -11 LOCATION :St. Mary’s Church (corner of East Saanich and Cultra).

Live Musicby Fine Spirits11-1:30

PEN

INSU

LA

CELEBRATIONS SO

CIE

TY

Event Proceeds to :Event Proceeds to :A Peninsula Family TraditionA Peninsula Family Tradition

• Anchor Insurance• Coast Capital Savings• Escape Solutions• Fresh Cup Café• Gartley Station Fermentations• Island Family Chiropractic• Pedersen’s Party Rentals• Peninsula Family Chiropractic• Prairie Inn Pub• Saanich Pioneer Society• Spelt’s• St. Mary’s Anglican Church• Thrifty Foods • Victoria Costumes• Western One Rentals

11 - 1

Live Music

Saturday, December 10th 9:30 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Presenting Sponsors :

104 - 1931 Mt. Newton X Rd. Over $1,000 in Prizes !

With Santa !Christmas Tree Trail !

10 - 2Pick up your Christmas Tree Trail map at Fresh Cup Roastery Café or St. Mary’s Church from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Visit each of the local businesses along the trail, collect a stamp at each location. Vote for your favourite tree & enter to win one

of many draw prizes worth over $1,000 !

7th AnnualSaanichton chriStmaS

community

Pancake Breakfast !

Free Photos

Community Partners :

Horse-Drawn Carriage Rides ! 10:30 - 1:30

Two cozy Christmas carriages will make their way around the Saanichton Village, picking up and dropping off people along the Christmas Tree Trail.

9:30 -11 LOCATION :St. Mary’s Church (corner of East Saanich and Cultra).

Live Musicby Fine Spirits11-1:30

PEN

INSU

LA

CELEBRATIONS SO

CIE

TY

Event Proceeds to :Event Proceeds to :A Peninsula Family TraditionA Peninsula Family Tradition

• Anchor Insurance• Coast Capital Savings• Escape Solutions• Fresh Cup Café• Gartley Station Fermentations• Island Family Chiropractic• Pedersen’s Party Rentals• Peninsula Family Chiropractic• Prairie Inn Pub• Saanich Pioneer Society• Spelt’s• St. Mary’s Anglican Church• Thrifty Foods • Victoria Costumes• Western One Rentals

11 - 1

What’s Happening – December 2011Until Dec. 23

Artisans Christmas Gift GalleryCommunity Art Centre at Tulista Park

9565 Fifth Street, Sidney 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. Wednesday - Sunday

250-656-7400, www.cacsp.com

Showcasing the creative work by area artists: painting, sculpture, pottery, woodwork, glass, weaving, quilting, metal work, folk art and more. Presented by the Community Arts Council

of the Saanich Peninsula. Free admission.

December 4Peninsula Singers Present

"Christmas Wishes"Mary Winspear Centre, Sidney, 2 p.m.

250-656-0275, www.peninsulasingers.ca

Your wish is our command: a wonderful, unforgettable Christmas concert! Tickets:

adults $22, children $11.

December 4, 10"On the 10th Year of Christmas"

Soundings Vocal Ensemble Winter Concert

Dec. 4 – St. Mary's Anglican Church, Saanichton, 2:30 p.m.

Dec. 10 – Oak Bay United Church, Oak Bay, 8 p.m. 250-544-4393, www.soundingsmusic.com

This year the 26-voice Soundings Vocal Ensemble celebrates 10 years of seasonal music-making with a concert of favourites from past years as well as music new to our audience, featuring songs both familiar and unfamiliar, from Medieval England and France to contemporary Europe and North America. As always, you can expect some surprises! All tickets $15, available at: Dig This, 777 Royal Oak Dr; Ivy's Books, 2188 Oak Bay Ave; James Bay Coffee and Books, 143 Menzies St; Larsen Music, 1833 Cook St; Long & McQuade

Music, 756 Hillside Ave and at the door.

December 5Companions of the Quaich

International Whisky Dinner & Tasting

Sidney Pier Hotel & Spa, 7 p.m. 250-658-1109, [email protected]

In the last 200 years distilleries were started up, mothballed, closed and re-opened again later. This event will feature three whiskies of ”Lost Distilleries” and a great Malt Impostor. Lawrence Graham, of Victoria Whisky Festival fame, will introduce the whiskies. An excellent three-course dinner and four whisky tastings: members $60, guests $70,

dinner only (designated drivers) $50.

December 8Peninsula Newcomers Club

Annual Christmas LuncheonBrentwood Bay Resort & Spa

849 Verdier Ave, Brentwood Bay, 11:30 a.m. www.peninsulanewcomers.ca

The Peninsula Newcomers Club welcomes women who are new to the area, providing them with many opportunities to meet new friends and participate in fun and interesting activities. You must be a member to attend; for more information on joining this fun club,

visit the website listed above.

December 107th Annual Saanichton Community Christmas

Fresh Cup Roastery Café, 1931 Mt. Newton X Rd.

Saanichton, 10 a.m. - 2 p.m. [email protected]

Sidney Lions Food Bank fundraiser featuring a Christmas Tree Trail, horse and carriage rides, pancake breakfast, coffee, baked goods,

hot cider, cocoa and live music.

December 10-11"A Christmas Inspired" Christmas Show & Sale

Muse Winery, 11195 Chalet Road, North Saanich, 11 a.m. - 5 p.m.

250-656-2552 www.musewinery.ca

This annual exhibition and sale features seven talented B.C. artists and strives to bring you an eclectic mix of mediums to tempt your eyes and bring you something for the special person on your holiday shopping list. Top it off with award-winning wines for your holiday entertaining and you've got the best of the season in one location!

Artists are in attendance for the show.

December 10-11Last Chance Christmas Craft Fair

Mary Winspear Centre, Sidney Dec. 10 - 10-5, Dec. 11 - 10-4

250-656-0275 www.marywinspear.ca

Presented by Tidewater Inspirations, the “Last Chance” Christmas Craft Fair hosts over 85 artisans and crafters displaying their unique handcrafted

wares. Admission $3 for a weekend pass.

December 11Festive "Winter Wonder" Crafts

(Drop-in Event – all ages)Elk/Beaver Lake Regional Park

(Saanich), 12-3 p.m. 250-478-3344, www.crd.bc.ca/parks

Drop by with family and friends to make fun and festive seasonal crafts and enjoy some hot spiced apple cider. Meet at the nature centre at

the main Beaver Lake parking lot.

December 11Santa Swim

Panorama Recreation Pool, North Saanich, 1-3 p.m. www.panoramarecreation.ca

Santa is making a splash this year! Bring the whole family for an action-packed swim and a special appearence by Scuba Santa. Normal drop-in rates apply – $13 family, $6.50

adult, $4.75 student, $3.50 child.

December 12Victoria Storytellers

Guild Evening1831 Fern Street, Victoria

(park on Begbie) Doors open 7:15 p.m., stories begin 7:30 p.m. 250-477-7044, www.victoriastorytellers.orgThe Victoria Storytellers Guild welcomes you

to hear and tell stories. Admission $5 adults, $3 students (includes tea and goodies).

December 17-18Via Choralis Messiah Concert

St. Elizabeth's Church, 10030 3rd St, Sidney Dec. 17 @ 7 p.m., Dec. 18 @ 2 p.m.

www.viachoralis.ca

Via Choralis Chamber Choir will be presenting Handel's Messiah, with orchestra and four special guest soloists. Tickets are $22 and $10 and can be purchased at Tanner's books and at the door.

December 29Trail Tales

(Guided Walk – all ages)Coles Bay Regional Park

(North Saanich), 10-11:30 a.m. 250-478-3344, [email protected]

www.crd.bc.ca/parks

Winter is the time for stories. Find out how Raven tricked the Crow, where our Island chickadees came from and much more with a CRD Regional Parks’ naturalist on this storyteller’s walk through the woods. Meet at the information kiosk in the parking lot off Inverness Road, off Ardmore Dr.

250-656-0275 • www.marywinspea r.ca

Robin Hood PantomimeDec. 21st - 23rd @ 7:30 pmDec. 27th - 29th @ 2 pmTickets $18 adults, $15 senior/student

Presented by the Peninsula Players, Robin Hood is a traditional pantomime designed to be enjoyed by all the family. This will be a fun-filled show for everyone!

Vancouver Welsh Men’s Choir

Dec. 18th @ 2 p.m.

$30 adults • $26 seniors/students • $10 children

A 100-man ensemble offering an entertaining repertoire of traditional Welsh hymns, spirituals, opera choruses, show tunes and much more, the choir tours extensively throughout British Columbia and internationally.

What’s Happening – December 2011


Just in time for the holiday season, soundings Vocal ensemble brings harmony to saanichton with the sweet sounds of voices singing familiar and some not-so-familiar music in their “on the 10th Year of christmas” concerts. Denis Donnelly began the ensemble 10 years ago when some of the singers in the Gettin’ Higher choir, which he co-directs, wanted to form a smaller performance group that could explore a more diverse repertoire. the ensemble now features 26 auditioned singers drawn from all over the region.

"several of our singers live in central saanich so we feel a close relationship with the Peninsula," Denis said recently. "I spent many of my growing up years in sidney and now live in Brentwood Bay, so it’s like a home-coming to have our concerts here each fall and spring." the ensemble is in good hands with their director: an accomplished musician and performer specializing on Irish Harp. Denis has already been presented with the Herbert Drost Award by the B.c. choral Federation for lifetime achievement in choral music!

“We have a lot of fun at our rehearsals and we bring that to our concerts,” Denis added. Many of the songs featured in the upcoming concerts are included on soundings’ just-released first cD titled Song for a Winter’s Night which some will remember as a Gordon Lightfoot song. Denis has re-arranged it along with other

seasonal favourites and added some medieval english and French christmas songs to the mix. All are sung unaccompanied, the better to hear the delicious harmonies.

the concerts are being held at st. Mary’s Anglican church on east saanich Road on December 4th at 2:30 p.m., and at oak Bay United church on December 10th at 8 p.m. check www.soundingsmusic.com for ticket information or the “What’s Happening” page at left. the cD will be available for sale at the concerts and at Larsen Music.

Let soundings bring harmony and joy to your world this christmas time!

"Soundings" Brings Harmony to Saanichton!by Arlene Antonik

Artisans Christmas Gift Gallery

Traditional and Contemporary Arts And Crafts

COMMUNITY ARTS COUNCIL

ART CENTRE at TULISTA PARK 9565 FIFTH AT WEILER AVE.

SIDNEY, BC

11-4 Wednesday to Sunday From Oct 29 until Dec 23

250-656-7400

We gratefully acknowledge the financial assistance of the Town of Sidney, the District of North Saanich, the Municipality of Central Saanich

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Zais Astrology – December 2011by Heather Zais ([email protected])

Aries (march 21 - april 19) Gracious compromise improves relations on more than one level. Emotional matters reach a turning point where they can be cleared up or moved past. Do what is necessary to get others onside. All involved will benefit in the end.

Taurus (april 20 - may 20) Feelings deepen and will influence the direction you want your life to take. Closure of certain matters allows you to move forward. Joint financial ties or investments are up for review or finalization. Take care of the paperwork.

Gemini (may 21 - june 20) Relationships are in focus – personal or business. Make decisions about the future – together or apart. One way or another it needs to be settled. Location is part of the issue. Calm communications get results on both sides.

Cancer (june 21 - july 22) Passionate feelings become power struggles. Don't hang onto a person or negative situation. Use that energy to advance your position or goals. You can have a lot more out of life as you have a larger destiny. Include travel.

Leo (july 23 - august 22) Romantic attachments occur in your day-to-day activities. Work or social venues are equally worthwhile sources. Just be your lovable, entertaining self to attract someone special or enhance an ongoing relationship. Keep calm.

Virgo (august 23 - september 22) You reach a transition point. Separate the past from the future and you will feel more comfortable with your situation. Take a closer look at home or property matters for you or others. Plan moves if they become necessary.

Libra (september 23 - october 22) You like to feel grounded and secure on your path. Your sign rules balance and this is important to you. Step away from people or situations that interfere with this. Don't carry the load by yourself. Make positive connections.

Scorpio (october 23 - november 21) Plan to attend important gatherings or functions. This will enhance your own position or status in relation to others. Your ideas or presentation are valued. You are seen as someone others can depend on when needed.

Sagittarius (november 22 - december 21) You enjoy centre stage as your confidence rises. A focus on finances will show where improvements can be made. Your ability to innovate works wonders on the bottom line. Personal or business connections help.

Capricorn (december 22 - january 19) Work around limitations and time constraints. Stay focused on your path and you gain more than expected. Others are drawn to your "businesslike" manner, as it makes things seem more stable. Time alone is worthwhile.

Aquarius (january 20 - february 18) Inner feelings intensify and you arrive at a relationship decision. Associates will have some influence on your choice. Consider how this affects status or position. It will be important to your long-term direction or ambitions.

Pisces (february 19 - march 20) You get credit that you deserve. This brings you more popularity as well. You mix business with pleasure successfully. Others want to work with you as they watch how you advance so easily. You are the winner you seem to be.


LAST WoRD

Well, a December issue filled with wonderful stories has left me with little room to say what I want to in this month's Last Word, namely: season's Greetings and Happy new Year to all our wonderful clients, contributors, readers, family and friends.

I count myself lucky: for the last three years I have been given the gift of being editor-in-chief of Seaside Times, a magazine that has undergone many changes to make it the publication you see today. Myself, sue, writers and photographers work very hard to give you a great issue every month: it's challenging, enlightening and sometimes downright crazy, and I love it.

thank you for giving me the best christmas gift, year after year, that I could ever ask for.

Happy Holidays and see you in 2012!

Allison Smith, Editor

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Seaside Times December 2011 Issue