by Paula Kully
News, changes, updates, launches? Email pjkully@gmail.com.
For the History Buffs
Man’s Best Friend Does His Best
Sidney resident and successful author Grant Hayter-Menzies’ latest book to hit the shelves is titled Muggins: The Life and Afterlife of a Canadian Canine War Hero. The book is the first biography of Muggins, a famous white Spitz dog who wandered downtown Victoria during the Great War with two donation boxes tied to his back. He raised the equivalent of $240,000, gained international fame, earned eight medals and remains a
Red Cross mascot. Grant has pledged to donate all of his royalties to the BCSPCA and the Red Cross BC-Yukon.
http://grantmenzies.wix.com/author.
What do Iceland and Canada Have in Common?
After a summer of renovations, the beloved Sidney Museum has reopened to the public! Check out the updates and take in the temporary exhibit, “Connected Heritage,” which runs until December 27. The exhibit is presented in partnership with the Icelandic Canadian Club of BC and explores the connections between Canada and Iceland. Please don’t forget to make a donation when visiting the Museum.
Twice as Easy to be Tested
Not So Far Away
Local business owner, Normand Schafer of Far and Away Adventures, has transformed his travel office at 2407 Bevan Avenue into a COVID-19 test site for people who require Covid testing to travel or for work. Tests include Rapid Antigen for $78 and PCR tests for $159. For details: www.farandawayadventures.com/travel-the-world/covid-19-testing.
Flight Tests
The Victoria Airport also offers Covid testing through Connectus Global, an accredited lab facility with the College of Physicians and Surgeons of BC. The testing clinic is located next to the departure terminal at the Airport and provides PCR Testing for both National and International travel. Testing is available for same-day, 24 hours and 48 hours with varying fees. www.connectusglobal.com/victoria-airport-testing-facility.
Planning for the Future
On the Waterfront
A hot topic around Sidney these days is the future of Beacon Wharf. The Town of Sidney has been considering replacement options for the Wharf, which has an estimated 10 years left in its lifespan. If you want to have a say, the public survey is open until October 15 on the Town’s website (www.sidney.ca). You will also find a special edition Town Talk that provides information on possible replacement options.
On the Street
In response to the economic impacts of the pandemic on local business, the District of Central Saanich is undertaking a Community Economic Recovery Program. As part of the recovery efforts, a Task Force of community members from various sectors will be created to develop a Community Economic Recovery Plan. In addition, the District recently engaged Patrick Earl, a new Community Economic Recovery Coordinator, for a term of two years.
Accolades & Honours
Nominate a Frontline Worker
I think everyone can agree that throughout the pandemic, frontline workers have been our saving grace. Because of their courage and tireless effort, our lives have been made better. Now, the Sidney BIA is offering an opportunity to show your gratitude. Until January, the Sidney BIA will be giving away gift cards to front-line workers. Visit www.sidneybia.ca/nominate to nominate a Sidney employee who you’d like to honour.
On a Sad Note
Longtime Sidney resident and co-owner of Chef on the Run Alan Ripley passed away suddenly on August 23. Alan and his wife Julia immigrated to Canada from England in 1996 and opened Chef on the Run in Sidney. Alan will be greatly missed by his family, friends and the community.
Creative Corner
Calling All Artists!
Artsea Community Arts Council is currently accepting Expressions of Interest for the Sidney Seaside Sculpture Walk. ArtSea and the Town of Sidney have applied to the Canada Healthy Communities Initiative to create Safe and Vibrant Public Spaces. Should they be successful, the grant will enable the purchase of a new sculpture to be added to the Sculpture Walk. For details visit www.artsea.ca.
Christmas in October
Just a quick reminder that the Sidney Street Market at the Mary Winspear Centre runs Sundays until October 10! The Market has been hugely successful over the summer and is a welcome alternative to the popular Thursday night Market that was postponed due to the pandemic. This means you still have a couple of weeks to shop local for unique and original Christmas gifts.
