by Paula Kully –
News, changes, updates, launches? Email news@seasideamagazin@seaside.
WINNING COMBINATIONS
Picture Perfect
There is something about the Saanich Peninsula that attracts amazing photographers. That talent was brought to light recently when the Victoria Camera Club won the Lions Gate Celebration of Nature photographic competition. The competition is only open to camera clubs, not individuals, with each club entering eight images by eight different members. The club came in first place with Steve Smith from Sidney garnering the highest scoring image and the First Best in Show with “Grizzly Cubs Playfighting.” Evan Guengerich of Saanich had the Third Best in Show with “Epic Struggle.”
Still Flying High
Despite the pandemic, the Victoria Airport Authority is still accumulating awards and recognition. VAA has been the recipient of awards such as the EcoStar award for Ecological Stewardship and the prestigious Airports Council International Award for Airport Service Quality to name only a few. Recently, VAA was recognized as one of B.C.’s top employers for 2020. The airline industry is one of the hardest hit by the pandemic, so this accolade helps to boost morale.
MOVING ON
Hooked on Nanaimo
Larry and Andi Hook have operated Hook & Hook Designs, their award-winning interior design and custom millwork business in Sidney, since 2016. However, they recently confirmed that they have made the decision to move their family and the business to Naniamo in April. Sadly, the Peninsula’s loss is Nanaimo’s gain. We wish them all the best in their new life!
A Healthy Change
Denny Warner, long-time Executive Director of the Saanich Peninsula Chamber of Commerce, has left the Chamber to move on to a new position in the healthcare industry as the Community Relations/Marketing Manager with Sidney All Care Residence. Denny has worked for the Chamber since March 2014. She began as an event planner and bookkeeper but was appointed Executive Director in August 2014. Since that time Denny has made a significant impact on the organization and the communities she works for. We wish her all the best in her new career.
HAPPY ANNIVERSARY
Two for Two
Congratulations to Lisa and Martin Pedersen as they celebrate their second anniversary as co-owners of Ecotopia Naturals in Sidney. Ecotopia is committed to sourcing quality, comfortable, fair trade and ethically made clothing and accessories. Considering they have been operating one of those two years during a pandemic, we take our hats off to this couple for being so resilient with a new business venture.
Missed This
There have been several milestone anniversaries celebrated on the Peninsula recently and I am sorry to say that I missed one. The Sidney by the Sea Rotary Club celebrated its 25th anniversary in November of 2020. So, better late than never, let’s say “happy anniversary!” The Rotary Club does so much in our community – there simply isn’t space to list it all. But, the club members often volunteer to support local events and continuously fundraise for their many worthwhile programs.
TRADING SPACES
Baby, it’s Warm Outside
The Farmer’s Daughter now has a covered and heated patio! This fantastic little cheese shop and wine bar in the Garden Court on Beacon Avenue carries a wide array of cheeses you simply cannot find anywhere else and their wine and cheese flight pairings are always exciting and unique. The outdoor patio has a very European ambience, which can now be enjoyed year-round with the addition of heaters. Well done Jessica and Tom!
Room With a Brew
Victoria Distillers, along the Sidney Waterfront, has expanded its production facility by renovating the former lounge and meeting space. It is no doubt the added space is needed to keep up with the high demand for their craft spirits including the now-famous Empress 1908 blue gin and new The Strait & Narrow Pacific Coast Cocktails. The retail store is still open to the public and tasting tours will return once the public health regulations allow for it.
