– by Lara Gladych –
AWARDS
Top Beans
Fresh Cup Roastery Café made an impressive showing at the North American Golden Bean Competition, where out of over 400 entries from 100 different roasting companies, their Peruvian Organic won a silver medal in its category. Their Peruvian roast has been served at Fresh Cup for 15 years, and is a main ingredient in their popular Sombrilla Blend. They invite you to come in and try a cup next time you’re in the neighbourhood! Fresh Cup is located at 1931 Mt. Newton X Road, in Saanichton.
EVENTS
Fall Harvest
On November 27th and 28th, Rancho Vignola New Crop Nuts and Dried Fruit will be holding their annual Harvest Event at the Mary Winspear Centre. A family-owned and operated business from Armstrong, B.C., they will have their products on display and will be offering free samples and live food demos. They offer a variety of product packaging sizes, including cases, and a variety of gift packs for Christmas gift-giving ideas. You can also enter to win a gift basket! Hours for the event are Friday, 9 a.m. to 7 p.m., and 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. Saturday. To learn more about Rancho Vignola, visit www.ranchovignola.com.
Glimpse of Christmas
With Christmas just around the corner, Haven Spa, at the Sidney Pier Hotel, is hosting Holidays at Haven, on Friday, November 6th. The event runs from 7 to 9 p.m. and tickets are $30, which includes a $25 retail credit. You can get a first look at their holiday sets and stocking stuffers, while enjoying 20% off all retail. There will be hair and makeup demonstrations, giveaways, door prizes and refreshments. Limited space. Tickets are available at the Spa, and you can contact them by phone at 250-655-9797.
Paint On!
Further to the great success of their Cottage Paint sessions, The Old Attic has set up a permanent Cottage Paint painting area for customers, adjacent to their shop! Spots are booked for $20 per person/day, and you bring your own pieces to paint. They will help you select appropriate paint and finishes, which you purchase, and then they’ll set you up and give you instruction on how to get started and get on your way! Coffee, tea and additional encouragement and suggestions are free throughout the day. For more information, visit www.TheOldAttic.ca or call them directly at 778-426-1660. You’ll find them at 7925 East Saanich Road in Saanichton.
NEWS
Renovations
North Saanich Council has approved the partial reconstruction of Municipal Hall, and has allocated $2,508,000 to do so. The current building suffers from structural issues, and is also in need of seismic upgrading to ensure the safety of staff and visitors in the event of an earthquake. The project will proceed in several stages so that disruption to service can be kept to a minimum. You can read much more about the project on the municipality website, www.northsaanich.ca.
New Faces
Haven Spa & Salon is running under new management. Spa Manager Cindy Brown joined the team in October. Welcome, Cindy!
International Festival
The Stonehouse Pub will be hosting an International Festival starting this month. November’s theme is Italian! Go check out the authentic experience including the checked table cloths and wine on the table. Each month will be a new theme; call 778-351-1133 for reservations!
Fresh Spaces
Sidney’s Pitt & Hobbs has recently expanded both their retail space and product lineup. A favourite for greeting cards and giftware, they’ve added British and Scottish imports, shabby chic linens, new card lines, and Royal Albert’s new Dot and Miranda Kerr designs. Visit the store at 2408 Beacon, or take a look at their selection online at www.pittandhobbs.com. Call 250-656-3088.
