by Natalie Bobrowich –
RADIO SIDNEY’S BILL COLLINS WINS NATIONAL AWARD
Congratulations are in order for Bill Collins, Station Manager of Radio Sidney, for recently receiving the prestigious Game Changer Award from the National Campus and Community Radio Association (NCRA). Collins was recognized for his exceptional leadership and focus on inclusivity and highlighting under-represented voices in Sidney and the Saanich Peninsula – work to be proud of indeed. Tune into Radio Sidney’s award winning programming through www.radiosidney.ca.
FIREFIGHTERS POSE WITH PETS
A group of animal-loving Peninsula firefighters have been posing with their pets for a 2025 calendar photoshoot to benefit Balfour’s Friends, an organization that supports low-income pet owners with financial aid for veterinary bills. The calendar was shot on location at Island View Beach by photographer Tracey Scott on June 22. Models included the firefighters and their dogs, cats, miniature horses, and even a rooster! The Firefighters and Friends 2025 Calendar will be available for purchase at www.balfoursfriends.com in the fall.
FASHION SCENE UPDATE
As of July 31, Sidney’s Baden-Baden Boutique will have transferred its building and business to another Sidney fashion favourite, W&J Wilson. Owner Barbara Hubbard has expressed gratitude to her customers and “tremendous and loyal staff” for their support over the years. Although she has been in the business for 40 years, Barbara is not ready to retire yet! She will continue to share her love of fashion in Sidney through her other store, Barbara’s Boutique.
Long-time Sidney fixture Cottons and Blues is celebrating 45 years of business in the community. “We are grateful to be part of Sidney’s vibrant businesses,” says owner Anna Savage. “Thank you to each and every one of our customers. We look forward to serving you for another 45 years!”
Meanwhile, Spruce Clothing + Lifestyle in Brentwood Bay will relocate to a new oceanfront location at 828 Verdier Avenue, opening in early August. Owner Andria Paulo sees the move as “a refreshing opportunity” to offer a vacation-like shopping experience with a unique collection of local and handmade products. Follow @spruce.clothing on Instagram for opening details.
SAANICH PENINSULA HOSPITAL 50/50 FUNDRAISER
Saanich Peninsula Hospital & Healthcare Foundation has launched a 50/50 fundraiser in continued celebration of the hospital’s 50th anniversary. Proceeds from the raffle will be used to supply and enhance much-needed equipment for the Saanich Peninsula Hospital’s Emergency Department, Operating Room, and Acute Care Unit. Tickets are available now online at www.sphf.ca. The lucky winner will be announced on August 29.
CYCLING FOR CHANGE
A group of local cyclists has joined together for monthly bike rides to campaign for safe bike lanes or multi-use pathways in Central Saanich. Group members hope to demonstrate enthusiasm for cycling to the Mayor and Council and to normalize bikes on Central Saanich roads. Those that would like to support this public advocacy
can connect with Capital Bike through Joel Satre at
joel.satre@capitalbike.ca or visit @CSaan by Bike on Facebook
*Event Note: The Canada Food Day Event scheduled to take place at Heritage Acres on August 3 has regretfully been cancelled.
