Words June Murray Gagnall
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A New Name Reflecting a Clear Purpose
VandeRuyt Wealth Management Group is proud to announce that it will become Confident Wealth Advisory Group this October. The new name reflects what the team has always sought to provide clients: confidence in their financial future and confidence in having a trusted team by their side. As the practice has grown, the team recognized that their role extends beyond managing investments to helping clients navigate retirement, major life transitions, legacy planning and important financial decisions. Although the name is changing, clients can expect the same personalized advice, trusted relationships and commitment to helping them achieve their goals. The rebrand marks an exciting new chapter while honouring the values that have guided the firm from the beginning.
A Little Crib Making a Big Difference
Some of the smallest patients at Saanich Peninsula Hospital now have a safer, more comfortable place to recover, thanks to the O’Brien Wealth Management team at CIBC Wood Gundy. Their generous support helped fund a specialized Stryker Cub Crib for children under five years old, providing a secure, child-sized space before and after surgery and during transport.
For this Sidney-based team, giving back is personal as many members of their team live, work and raise their families on the Saanich Peninsula and have experienced the hospital’s care firsthand. It’s a wonderful example of investing in healthcare close to home with the youngest members of our community.
Putting Waste Heat to Work
The Capital Regional District (CRD) and Peninsula Recreation Commission (PRC) are excited to announce the Heat Recovery Project at Panorama Recreation Centre. This system is designed using industry leading and proven technology, to recover heat that would be sent as waste to the atmosphere and use it in other systems requiring heat within the Recreation Centre. Once complete, this project will play a significant role in reducing Panorama Recreation’s greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions and will directly support the CRD’s climate action goals. This project is being supported by grants from both FortisBC and BC Hydro.
Rolling Her Way to Team Canada!
North Saanich teen Pearl Stewart discovered roller derby in 2022, and quickly fell in love with the sport. Since then, she has worked tirelessly to build her skills, determination and confidence on the track. Now, all that hard work has paid off! Pearl recently competed against talented young athletes from across Canada for a coveted spot on Junior Team Canada Roller Derby. Pearl is thrilled that she has been selected to represent her country.
From Beach House Memories to a New Story
Lifeways Gallery has opened its doors in Cordova Bay, in the much-loved former Beach House space. This new gallery celebrates and supports local and area Indigenous artistry, showcasing distinctive works and the stories behind them. Each piece reflects deep cultural heritage, traditional knowledge and generations of artistic skill, offering visitors an opportunity to discover, learn and connect through art. 5109 Cordova Bay Road. Open Wednesday to Sunday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.
New Direct Transit Service Between Sidney & YYJ
BC Transit’s new Route 72A is now in effect and will provide direct service between Sidney and Victoria International Airport (YYJ) with no transfer required. Details include:
• Early-morning and late-night service;
• Convenient for employees, residents and visitors; and
• Routes 87 and 88 will continue to serve YYJ during the day.
www.bctransit.com
Keep History Alive!
Want to get hands-on with history? Heritage Acres BC is looking for new volunteers to help preserve and share Vancouver Island’s fascinating past. From heritage buildings and vintage tractors to steam engines and stories from generations gone by, this living history park offers plenty of ways to get involved. With many longtime volunteers aging out, fresh faces are needed to keep this community treasure thriving for years to come. Lend a hand, meet great people and help bring history to life!
www.heritageacresbc.com
Radio Sidney Gets a Boost from Town Council
Radio Sidney is one step closer to becoming a licensed low-power FM station, with unanimous support from Sidney Town Council and its application now submitted to the CRTC. The proposed 92.7 FM station would provide a trusted local voice and an important emergency communication tool for the community. While the licensing process is expected to take 18 to 24 months, Radio Sidney is already online with locally produced programming and podcasts.
Fill the Crate, Lend a Paw!
This October, Merridale Cidery & Distillery, located in Cobble Hill, is turning an apple crate into a crate of kindness! As part of Harvest for Hounds, visitors are invited to donate pet food, treats, toys, supplies and comfort items to support animals in the care of the BC SPCA Cowichan Valley. Drop off a donation while enjoying the beauty of harvest season. Explore the orchard, sip hot apple cider and enjoy a relaxing fall day at the farm. Bring a little kindness, help fill the crate and make a big difference for animals in need!
Paper Chain Turning a New Page
A beloved Victoria destination for thoughtfully selected cards and gifts, Paper Chain is embarking on an exciting new chapter under new ownership. Located in The Shops at Mattick’s Farm in Cordova Bay and founded by Shirley Henly, the store will continue its tradition of finding the perfect card while expanding its gift selection to showcase exceptional Canadian makers and businesses. There will be a special focus on women-owned, LGBTQIA+ and Indigenous creators. The new owner, a longtime Victoria resident and former Paper Chain customer, is passionate about honouring the shop’s rich history while bringing fresh ideas and purpose to its future.
