by Paula Kully –
CHANGING IT UP
Building on a Strong Foundation
There have been a few changes for the Saanich Peninsula Community Foundation. The organization recently acquired charitable status while Vice President Tim Maloney has stepped into the role of President. Tim has worked in the nonprofit sector for 35 years. The 20-year-old Foundation manages a permanent community endowment fund that grows through public support and provides funding to local non-profit charitable organizations.
10 Acres Restaurant and Café at the Pier Hotel
If you have been down to Beacon Wharf lately, you may have noticed that the new 10 Acres at the Pier in the former Haro’s Restaurant location has opened. The soft opening is providing an opportunity for the team to train and get used to the new space that has been completely redecorated with a fresh, modern open décor.
Don’t Stop the Music
After many years in the community, Peninsula Academy of Music Arts has closed its doors, but there’s a new venture to fill the musical void. Keynote Academy, owned and operated by Heather and Cory Hastings, is providing a wide range of online classes for the whole family and for all levels of learners. For details visit www.keynoteacademy.ca
KEEPING IT NATURAL
Beauty …
Will + Wheel Hair Lounge is a new eco-friendly and cruelty-free salon in Sidney at 9774 Third Street in Sidney next to Lolly Gobble. The salon opens on August 4 for bookings.
… And the Beast
We love our pets on the Peninsula and now there is a new store in Sidney for pet parents to shop. Pet Connections on Beacon Avenue specializes in raw food produced from mainly Canadian suppliers. Owner Leslie Kennedy started “Pet Connection” magazine over 12 years ago. The magazine, like the store, focuses on natural health for your pet.
Building for the Future
School Zone
ȽÁU, WELṈEW̱ Tribal School is building a new addition. The project will expand the elementary and secondary schools, and replace the gymnasium with a full-size gym. The addition will provide a total of 2,871 square meters of new space and is expected to be complete by November 2021.
The Long and Winding Road
After years of waiting, the District of Central Saanich is finally seeing the start of construction on a new overpass at Keating Cross Road. The Ministry of Transportation has advised that initial engineering work is being conducted during July and August, which may cause traffic delays – a small price to pay for long-term safety. The plan includes a new flyover overpass from the Pat Bay Highway northbound to Keating Cross Road westbound, eliminating the need for drivers to turn left across traffic, as well as a southbound on-ramp to Victoria.
HAVE YOU HEARD?
Something to Smile About
Congratulations are in order for Sidney Centre Family Dentistry located at #215 – 9764 Fifth Street. The family-owned and operated clinic celebrates 20 years of doing business in Sidney while serving the residents of the Saanich Peninsula.
Fix it, Don’t Fling it
Repair Café North Saanich hasn’t been able to open in conjunction with the North Saanich Market. But the good news is they have been included in this year’s North Saanich Flavour Trails. Repair Café is a neighbourhood initiative that promotes repair as an alternative to tossing things out. Bring your electronics, clothing, household appliances, broken ceramics, bikes, furniture, etc. to 10990 West Saanich Road on July 31, August 14 and August 23 from 1 to 3 p.m. Physical distancing rules and safety protocols will be in place.
VIRTUAL REALITY
Meet Me at the Market
Everyone is a bit sad that the Sidney Street Market isn’t running this year due to the pandemic; summer just isn’t the same without the sights and sounds of this popular Sidney event. However, you can still support some of your favourite vendors as the Market has gone virtual. Check it out at www.sidneystreetmarket.com.
And the Race is on!
Another local event that is working its way around COVID is the Sidney by the Sea Run / Walk. Racers record their own distance and time and complete their distance between September 20 and October 18. By registering you will support two charities – Saanich Peninsula Hospital & Healthcare Foundation and the Shaw Centre for the Salish Sea! You can register for the 5k, 8k or 10k walk/run at:
https://raceroster.com.
