by Paula Kully –
News, changes, updates, launches? Email pjkully@gmail.com.
Awards & Accolades
Century Farm Family
Congratulation to Bryce and Jill Rashleigh of Saanichton Farm, who recently received a Century Farm and Ranch Award for their family’s contribution to farming. The B.C. government presents the award to farms, ranches and agricultural organizations that have been working in B.C. for 100 years. The Rashleigh family has been actively farming on Vancouver Island since 1912 and in Saanichton since 1936.
Above the Bar
Everson Law is proud to announce that a member of their team, Wendy Anne Claxton, Real Estate Paralegal, was recently presented the 2021 Linda Barnes Award by the Victoria Bar Association. The award recognizes proven excellence, professional courtesy and longstanding devotion in the service of the recipient’s employers. Congratulation Wendy!
Now That’s an Order!
On October 23, two members of Sidney’s St. Andrew’s Anglican Church were presented with the Order of British Columbia by the Anglican Diocese of B.C. at Christ Church Cathedral in Victoria. Len Howland and Tim Cribdon were among the 33 people who were recognized for their outstanding service to the church and community over a significant period of time. Congratulations and thanks to both for their service to the church and the community!
For the Kids
A Little Less Sparkle
For the third year in a row, the Peninsula Celebrations Society has decided not to hold the annual Sidney Sparkles Christmas Parade due to Covid pandemic numbers and concerns for citizens’ safety. But don’t despair, there are many other great events and activities happening on the Peninsula to celebrate the holiday season as well as local businesses going the extra mile to make everything “Merry and Bright.”
It’s Play Time
The District of Central Saanich has a new treehouse-inspired playground at Tanner Park located on 6245 Rodolph Road. The playground has an accessible pathway and is designed for kids ages two through 12. It includes a disk swing, slide and other ground-level play opportunities for users of all abilities. The great thing about this park is that the design was voted on and selected by Central Saanich youth – the kids who will be playing there.
Taking Off
Now on Tap
The much-anticipated Beacon Brewing has opened in the Oceana building on Third Street in Sidney. The small-batch brewery and tasting room offer pints and flights, local cider and soda, and locally produced snacks. And, here’s a new twist on collaboration: they welcome patrons to bring in takeout from any Sidney restaurants!
Keeping it Agile
Andrew and Vanessa Johnson, owners of Bicycle Pizza, have some exciting news to share. As of January 1, they will be the new owners of Beauregard Café and the new hosts of the shared kitchen. Their vision is to bring new life to the Saanich Peninsula, continue to grow the Bicycle Pizza brand, and be the new collaborative hub for local start-ups while supporting other retail businesses in our neighbourhood.
Going Global
After 21 months, Victoria Airport regains its “international” status. Transport Canada has given the go-ahead for international flights to resume beginning on November 30. Travellers will require proof-of-double-vaccination credentials and anyone flying must have been double-vaccinated at least two weeks before they travel.
Fond Farewell to Friends
Goodbye to the Farm
After 11 years, Laura Waters, owner of Snowdon House, has sold the farm at 1890 Mills Road in North Saanich. The lovely little store on-site closed on November 14, but there is good news! Laura will continue to sell her amazing products through her online store and will be attending select retail shows and markets. We wish Laura all the best!
Taking His Last Shot
The Peninsula Panthers are mourning the death of the team’s longtime photographer Gordon Lee, who sadly passed away on October 14, 2021. Gordon was a professional sports photographer who was also a fixture around local playing fields and rinks.
In the Spirit of Christmas
Secret Santa
Talk about community spirit! A long-time Saanich Peninsula resident and their family have initiated a Donor Match Challenge for the Saanich Peninsula Hospital & Healthcare Foundation’s “Picture Perfect” campaign to raise the necessary funds for a new X-ray machine. This devoted donor and family have committed to matching donations, dollar for dollar, up to $700,000! This will certainly make fundraising for this much-needed equipment easier. Who they are is a mystery.
