Words June Murray Dagnall
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Warm Bowls, Warm Hearts
The fourth annual SOUPer Bowl fundraiser has been announced, with 100% of proceeds going to the Saanich Peninsula Lions Food Bank! Enjoy delicious soups, dinner buns, desserts, coffee/tea, and live Celtic-inspired music from the Island B’ys, plus a silent auction. This sold-out event is limited to 50 spots, so register early by sending your $50 fee to Michelle at paulandmichelleb@gmail.com. If you are unable to attend you can still support this wonderful fundraiser by purchasing a bowl. Come together to help our community and surpass last year’s $4,500 raised!
Local First Nations and VAA Unite
The four W̱SÁNEĆ First Nations – BOḰEĆEN (Pauquachin), W̱JOȽEȽP (Tsartlip), SȾÁUTW̱ (Tsawout), and W̱SÍ,ḴEM (Tseycum) – and the Victoria Airport Authority (VAA), operators of Victoria International Airport (YYJ), have signed a Friendship Agreement to establish a long-term, collaborative relationship grounded in respect, cooperation, and partnership.
The Agreement recognizes the W̱SÁNEĆ Nations’ Aboriginal and Treaty rights, reflects their historic connection to the airport lands, and sets a framework for ongoing dialogue, collaboration on airport operations and future development, and shared initiatives in areas such as culture, environmental stewardship, and economic opportunities. VAA will provide annual contributions to support education, training, scholarships, internships, and business development for W̱SÁNEĆ members, ensuring their voices are included in decisions affecting their territory and future generations.
Vancity Grant Expands Access to Hands-On STEM Education
The Friends of the Dominion Astrophysical Observatory has been awarded a grant from Vancity Savings to help remove financial barriers that limit student access to hands-on STEM learning. The funding comes from Vancity’s Greater Victoria Savings and Credit Union Legacy Fund, which supports charitable organizations across the Capital Regional District. This grant will support a new bursary program offering free STEM programming to eligible public schools in School Districts 61, 62, and 63.
Priority will be given to schools serving families with limited financial resources, Indigenous students, and girls, helping ensure more students can engage in meaningful and inspiring STEM experiences.
A Fond Farewell
After over three decades of bringing joy to the community, Buddies Toys will be closing its doors on April 4, 2026. The shop’s owner looks forward to new directions and a well-deserved break from the demands of retail; however, she is truly grateful for the support of the Sidney community, loyal customers and a dedicated team. Looking back on the friendships and moments shared over the years has been truly special and she says thank you to everyone!
Work Here, Play Here and Grab Your Perk Pass
The Sidney Business Improvement Area (Sidney BIA) is thrilled to bring back the Work in Sidney Perk Pass, a program designed to show appreciation to new and current employees for their contributions to our thriving community.
The Perk Pass encourages participants to explore, indulge in and enjoy exclusive offers from Sidney’s local businesses. Each pass, valued at $200, includes eight unique perks and is completely free for eligible employees to experience the best of Sidney while supporting local business.
Shop and Stay Local with Exciting New Arrivals
From fresh retail spots to new places to stay, Sidney continues to grow and welcome locals and visitors alike.
Sherwin-Williams Paint Store has opened at 2310 Beacon Avenue.
Seaside Cannabis is set to open at 2306 Beacon Avenue.
TownePlace Suites by Marriott Victoria Airport Sidney is set to open in March 2026.
Eat, Celebrate, Give
Beacon Community Services proudly presents Beacon Bits, a new community fundraiser celebrating global cuisine while supporting local food security programs. On March 26, at the Victoria Scottish Community Centre, guests can sample dishes from chefs, caterers and food trucks across Greater Victoria, enjoy a live DJ, live auction, and be emceed by CHEK News anchor Paul Haysom.
Proceeds support Beacon’s year-round programs, including Mobile Meals, youth shelters and childcare services. Tickets are on sale now at www.beaconcs.ca. Join them for an evening of culture, community and compassion!
Quilts for the Valiant
On February 24, Quilts for the Valiant representatives presented handmade quilts to four widows of veterans who live at Legion Manor Victoria in Central Saanich. Quilts for the Valiant is committed to recognizing veterans and spouses of the Canadian Armed Forces and their spouses, for their service to our country.
Legion Manor Victoria is a multi-tiered Retirement Community dedicated to offering comfortable, quality accommodation for independent veterans and seniors, 55 years of age and older.
Local Artist in Search of Space
Jess Glover of Mystic Mandala is looking for a space to open a new business on the Peninsula.
Art Soul Studio will be a warm, community-focused art studio and artisan shop offering a thoughtfully curated mix of cozy art workshops, creative events of all kinds and drop-in stone and ceramics painting.
The Studio will offer a creative outlet that is community driven, putting a focus on local artisan wares and art retail such as paints and craft supplies.
Art Soul Studio is poised to become a vibrant creative hub and cherished social gather spot on the Saanich Peninsula, but Jess is still looking for a home for it. If you know of any retail spaces available locally that may fit the bill, reach out to Jess via www.facebook.com/sidneymysticmandala.
