Amazing Places

Welcome to the final podcast of 2022. We had originally intended this episode to be an upbeat look ahead, talking about the One Word “resolution” you can use that might help in planning and inspiring you, our dear listeners. It still is, but we're also going to share true confessions and deep thoughts on a year of podcasting for Michele. Some people make it look easy. For some people, it is easy. Sometimes tech works smoothly. Sometimes tech fails disastrously. Sometimes equipment fails. Sometimes equipment breaks. Some glitches can be edited out. Sometimes no amount of (amateur) editing will take out the distracting noises. Sometimes you don't realise - until editing - how much wind there is until you find it has drowned out the conversation. It really helps to have wonderful people in your life, both as guests, and as support people, to assist when stuff happens. Google is a big help in figuring out workarounds. This final episode of the year has been a case in point. Zoom failed us 3 different times. Tried some workarounds, but couldn't get it to work. Our lovely guest, Erica Palmer, patiently waited each time, and then kindly agreed to meet in person to record.Great! We picked our outdoor location, but when we walked over to where the “best” spot was, a group of boys were playing basketball. No problem. We moved to Plan B and the second-best spot, but then Erika pointed out the passing traffic. Our super-awesome mics are also super-sensitive, and tend to pick up all those noises, so we moved to Plan C. We sat down and got set up. Then it started to rain. Ever-flexible, we went and stood in a covered area that seemed to be mostly out of the wind (spoiler alert: listening afterwards proved otherwise). As we were micing up, Erika's mic clip broke. We improvised a repair, and started recording. We finished recording, and as she picked up the equipment, Michele found that one end of an audio connector had broken off, and the other end was barely hanging on. That is likely why Michele's audio is so low, and combined with the improvised repair on Erika's mic not being perfect, we've got a great podcast episode, with sub-par audio. On the positive side, it must have been a good, focused conversation, as at the time, we didn't realise that there was a dog barking loudly at one point! lol However, the wind also blew in at the same time, so that part of our conversation was completely unintelligible and later had to be edited out. However, as we packed up and were leaving, a rainbow appeared in the sky to the north, and as we watched, a second rainbow appeared! Even when technology and equipment fail us, Mother Nature comes through for us, showing some love. So with our rose-coloured glasses firmly in place, and despite the technical challenges, we hope you'll listen as Erika explains the fun of choosing a word to guide you for the coming year. Since she is the one who first inspired Michele to try it, it seemed only fitting that we have her on to talk about it! And she shares how she puts her chosen word into practice each year. It's a process that can be as fun or serious as you choose. For Erika, she gives a lot of thought into how she will use her One Word, and how she can apply it across most facets of her life. For Michele, it's a contemplative and reflective process. The One Word idea is to find the word that will give you motivation for 365 days, or, since there are no rules, it can be whatever you need it to be. Let Erika guide you, as she drops some ideas to get started. As for the One Word for this podcast for the coming year, we still don't know what it will be. Perhaps it should be perseverance?! LOL Stay tuned! Finally, all our best from the Amazing Places Podcast team for an absolutely amazing year ahead for all of you. Thank you for listening.

According to Wikipedia, Tao is “the natural order of the universe, whose character one's intuition must discern to realise the potential for individual wisdom… Its name…came from Chinese, where it signifies the way, path, route, road, or sometimes more loosely doctrine, principle, or holistic belief'. Sometimes we choose the path, and sometimes our path is chosen for us. For those with a disability, one's path can veer drastically from what we had planned. Listen along as Michele talks to Kevin Munn, Peer Support Coordinator, at the Victoria Disability Resource Centre. He touches on the Peer Support Groups offered at VDRC, and the LEAD (Lived Experiences Around Disability) programme which is starting soon and looking for volunteers! Kevin also gives shout-outs to local non-profits, the Rainbow Kitchen and the Military Family Resource Centre. We also chat about his personal path that led him to the Centre, and how he went from accessing the services, to now working there and helping others. He has forged a path of kindness that we'd all do well to follow.

One year ago this week, on November 15th 2021, Dean Murdock recorded an episode with Michele Sealey, introducing her as the new (temporary) Host of the Amazing Places Podcast. As Dean had decided to run for Mayor of Saanich he wanted to step back, and asked Michele to fill in for the coming year. Well, it has been quite a year since that day! The main event has, of course, been Dean's successful bid for the Mayoralty. So on the anniversary of that podcast, they sat down once again to chat. This true passing-of-the-torch episode looks at what has been amazing in his first 10 days as Saanich Mayor Dean Murdock. For the record, the traditional 1 year anniversary gift is paper, as Dean said. However, that's slightly difficult for an audio format, but as a compromise, have a piece of cake or a slice of pie to celebrate with us! Thanks for listening!

In this episode we're having a quick chat with Alix Link, at Mahon Brook in Saanich. Alix is the Manager of Urban Forestry, Natural Areas, and Community Stewardship for the District of Saanich. We're here for Saanich's annual Tree Appreciation Day. The first Saanich Tree Appreciation Day was held in November of 1995. In 2019, the Municipality committed to increasing the number of trees in the District, through a number of different tree planting initiatives. Nowadays, these initiatives also deliver on the strategic goals of urban forest enhancement, climate action, and environmental leadership. We're here planting to restore and enhance a former Garry Oak Restoration Project (GORP) site. At this year's event, 40 trees were planted, including: Garry oaks, Big Leaf maples, Trembling aspens, Black Hawthorne, and Serviceberry. Earlier during the week, 45 trees were planted by local school children for Tree Appreciation Week. Also included this year were 100 native shrubs. The main goals for Tree Appreciation Day are to: Promote community well-being and engage citizens in the protection and stewardship of our urban forest Encourage not just physical health, but also mental health and connection with with each other and with the land To enhance the biodiversity and promote pollinating species within parks Showcase the valuable work that Saanich Parks staff do every day with regard to stewardship, along with community volunteers who assist in parks stewardship Thanks to staff and volunteers alike for the work done to enhance our natural spaces, as well as increase/improve our Natural Intelligence.

Our episode this week comes to you from Quadra at Rock in Saanich, at a road safety rally organised by Sustainawave owner and local road safety advocate, Philip Marciniak. This rally was arranged after a vehicle ran a red light and struck a woman crossing in the crosswalk here - the second pedestrian-struck-in-a-crosswalk incident in the past week. The group gathered was conducting an exercise in civic critical mass, constantly cycling the walk button, escorting pedestrians and cyclists across the street. Philip is part of a group of road safety advocates that held a rally last year after the death of a 16 year old boy, hit in a marked crosswalk on Cedar Hill Cross Rd. At that time, the group called on Saanich to make some quick-build improvements at problem locations. After a cyclist was struck and injured at almost the same spot some months later, the Municipality installed some temporary traffic calming infrastructure. “There is support for improvement on road safety, it just feels like in Saanich it kind of falls short on actual action and budgeting and implementation … We're hoping to see action now.” It's amazing to see what grassroots community groups can accomplish. As Margaret Mead said, “Never underestimate the power of a small group of committed people to change the world. In fact, it is the only thing that ever has.” If you find it difficult/distracting to hear parts of this episode, that is unfortunately indicative of just how noisy traffic is in our communities, outside of a vehicle. Thanks for joining us in our roadside experience.

In this episode, we asked local government candidates what is amazing in their respective municipalities. For background, we did an open call - some candidates chose to post their amazing nominations, whilst others agreed to come on the podcast. The idea was to have some fun, while encouraging elements of harmony and positivity to the election. We thought it would be easy to find time to record, but candidates are in heavy demand, and we couldn't connect with everyone. However, we hope you enjoy what these candidates have to offer, as there are secrets shared here!

"An emotional day, but also a day of hope." Every year on the last Sunday of September, police and peace officers from agencies across the province, gather to honour the 129 peace officers who have died in the line of duty in the province of British Columbia. Sgt Noelle Wilson, from Vancouver Police Dept, is the Chair of the BC Law Enforcement Memorial Organising Committee, and joins us to explain the background of this annual event. This Sunday the 25th of September, the Memorial starts with a static display of vehicles from various agencies, lined up in front of the Empress on Government St. At 1240pm, a procession of pipe bands and marchers will parade under BC and Canadian flags, held up by firetrucks. The marchers, who hail from BC, across Canada, and even the US, will continue to "The Bastion" for the formal ceremony. The Bastion is a provincial monument, dedicated to those officers who lost their lives in active service to the citizens of BC. It sits in the Garden of Honour at the BC Legislature, and bears the names of all 129 fallen. Click here to learn more about its history. At 1pm/1300hrs, there is a small service for the families of the fallen, at The Bastion, which the public is welcome to attend.

Jess Gibbard is changing the world around her, by helping others. As a trans woman, she's taking the lessons she's learned about her voice, and turning them into lessons for others facing a similar situation. Jess launched TransVoiceCoach.com to help others change/train their voice to better suit their new selves. She gives us a peek into the science behind our voices, and a training demonstration. She's going back to school for additional speech training, and hopes to one day build her business to the point that she can help anyone dissatisfied with how they sound, to change their voice. The day before we spoke, Jess was busy launching both a TikTok channel, and a GoFundMe. She's got a lot going on, in addition to her multi-faceted YouTube channel, being a student, building guitar pedals, and her music. Oh yes, and there's her Instagram and Facebook. We try to keep up with the amazing whirlwind that is Jess, and we invite you to listen along. Please note, Michele is still getting the hang of podcasting recording, so the tail end of the show is clipped, but it still all makes sense. We hope. ;)

This week I am very honoured to have my friend Solomon join me. He became a Canadian citizen in a citizenship ceremony on the day we recorded. His pure joy and happiness touched me, a Canadian by birth. We met for tea shortly after the ceremony was done. He had stopped on the way at the Dutch Bakery to pick up some of his favourite treats for a celebration. He didn't stop grinning the entire time we talked! Although he has lived here for 6 years, it was like he was looking around our community with new eyes, and a feeling he described as now truly ‘belonging'. His euphoria was almost tangible. One of Solomon's favourite places is downtown Victoria. He likes to walk around and take in the sights, the architecture, and the people. The busy-ness of this small city reminds him of where he came from. So after a couple of hours, we went for lunch on a shaded patio, and enjoyed Japanese-Korean food. It perfectly underscored Canada - an amazing mix of cultures, people, and food. Rather fitting for the occasion. As he works in the health sector, his commitment to Canada, and determination to contribute to Canada, is much-needed. I hope you'll join me in welcoming one of Canada's newest citizens, Solomon. IIRC website Discover Canada - written Discover Canada - audio

Hearing “Gaming Branch” may cause different reactions in some, but for non-profits across the province, it can mean the difference in what programmes and services they are able to offer. Ryan Painter, Executive Director of Charityworks.ca, is here to explain what the Community Gaming Grant Programme (dispersed by the British Columbia Gaming Policy and Enforcement Branch) is all about, as well as what charities, organisations, and activities can qualify for funding. Last year, the Gaming Branch handed out $140M in BC to deserving groups! If you want to learn how your group can apply for funds, listen in! Resources: Charityworks Community Gaming Grants Programme

What's amazing in the world of a Member of Parliament? Her riding; the people, the places, and the events that are happening in Victoria, Oak Bay, and part of Saanich. MP Laurel Collins joins us to talk about what she enjoys/has enjoyed doing this summer. We hope you are inspired to get outside or get involved, and enjoy what's on offer! Here are some of the events, places, and organisations that we discuss: Beacon Hill Park Moss Street Market James Bay Market Victoria Literacy Connection FernFest VicWestFest Jazz Fest Ska Fest Rendezvous Victoria City of Victoria events James Bay New Horizons Irving Park Oak Bay Parks Saanich Parks Leadership Victoria East Sooke Park CRD Parks

What did you do for your summer holiday last year? Meaghan McDonald of Salt Legacy, spent 8 weeks with a team, working to clean 300kms of remote and "pristine" beaches on the West Coast of BC. Cleaning up 210 tons of garbage and waste to be exact. Almost half of the 210 tons was fishing ropes and nets. Approximately 60% of the total items recovered were able to be recycled. That's what Salt Legacy is all about - recycling as upcycling. Meaghan had a goal of building strong connections between individuals and the ocean, in order to raise awareness and educate on alternative practices towards upcycling. Her vision started with re-using discarded boat sails, to turn them into backpacks. The upcycled sailcloth vision has now expanded to include fanny packs (yes, they're in fashion again), duffel bags, and coming soon - surfboard/paddleboard packs! Oh wait, then there's the additional pillars of outreach and education that she's added to her ocean vision. Not too bad at all for a girl from the landlocked province of Alberta. If you know anything about her, it wouldn't surprise you that on that life-changing "holiday", Meaghan spent 2 hours cutting out a fishing net from logs, because it was in good shape and she wanted to incorporate it into her products. So along with 80' of usable rope, she packed it all in her luggage and paid overweight to the airline, to bring it home for upcycling at Salt Legacy. She not only employs local artisans to handmake each piece, but also has a unique way to inform buyers of the legacy of each unique item. It seems Salt Legacy is building quite an amazing legacy - Meaghan is an amazing person, with an amazing product, so we hope you'll give this a listen.

Taking a deep dive - or a beginner's dive if you prefer - into local scuba diving sites, is PADI Master Instructor and Course Director, Larry Wedgewood. Born and raised in Greater Victoria, little did he know that his first class years ago, at Frank White's in downtown Victoria, would change the course of his life. He has traveled and dived all over the world, owned his own dive business in Thailand, and now splits his time between Saanich and Edmonton. Larry describes the highlights of a few local dive sites, as well as answering the question, where is Graham's Wall? His passion and affinity for the sport shine through, as he describes the feelings and experiences way below the ocean surface. Oh yes, and the PG-rated sharks. When he talked of always returning to Vancouver Island, due to the cold-water diving being “amazing”, we knew he was the right guest for a podcast named Amazing Places. Did you know that there are underwater “beaches”? As to where Larry is going to dive next, you'll have to listen for his answer. Hint: you're welcome Mayor Gaby Wickstrom! ;) Larry has photos, blog articles, and a link to his YouTube channel on his website. Also, Pacific Water Sports is the local-adjacent (Duncan) dive shop that we discuss. While he hasn't got me in scuba gear yet, my curiosity was definitely piqued, so stay tuned for what happens later this year. Once again, apologies if you find the background noise distracting - can you tell we were on the patio of a local cafe? It really was quiet when we started. *sigh*

We're very happy to welcome the Honourable Lana Popham, Minister of Agriculture and Food, to this week's episode! If you've learned anything by now, you'll know that since Michele became the Podcast Lead on Amazing Places, she doesn't really “do” politics, even with a government minister on the show. Instead, she wants to talk about what is growing in Lana's garden this Spring! Lana's roots (pun fully intended) stretch back to growing up on Quadra Island, where growing food, raising animals, and harvesting from the sea was a way of life. She continued this closeness to the land when she co-founded and operated Barking Dog Vineyard, the first certified organic vineyard on Vancouver Island. She has been an amazing advocate for food producers and food security for many years. So we were curious about her own garden and what her gardening secrets and tips might be; and Lana generously shared her trowel and errors with us. Good news - the horseradish is surviving! So grab a piece of paper and pen for taking notes, and listen along as we talk green thumbs and clean fingernails.

There's been a lot of talk in the news lately regarding noise, and specifically about gas-powered garden and landscaping equipment. The District of Oak Bay Council recently voted to phase out the residential use of all gas-powered gardening tools, over the next 3 years. The whir of lawnmowers, leaf blowers, and grass trimmers are just one type of noise pollution that we face. This episode we have Dr Teale Phelps Bondaroff to talk about how noise affects people and the environment, how it impacts our ability to form community, as well as show the detrimental effects on our communities. The connections that we form from having conversations in a quiet area, are the bedrock of community building, as these quieter opportunities foster engagement with each other. Teale shares examples of how quieter communities are more connected, healthier, and smarter (!) communities. He also answers the question, "Are boomboxes legal in the CRD?". This is Meegan Read's closet set-up that I reference - and think of - when contemplating how to record a quieter podcast!

A few weeks back, Langford's Mayor, Stew Young, sat down with us to talk about a specific park. As these podcasts do, the discussion wound around to other subjects. This episode brings you all the rest of the conversation - some reminiscing about the Langford of old, and the actions and visions shaping Langford of the future. The City has bold plans for housing, education - secondary and post, environment, traffic, jobs, and economy, which the Mayor describes as a full-service, sustainable, and self-sustained community and full-circle lifestyle.

This week we welcome Cora Hallsworth, Senior Associate with One Earth, and Lead on One Planet Saanich. She joins us to talk about the One Planet Student Challenge. One Planet BC helps communities across the province understand sustainability priorities – and take action. Speaking of action, you need to take action too, to get in on this Challenge, as it ends May 20th! The Student Challenge is an invitation to any Middle or Secondary School student in the Capital Region area, to submit in video or illustration format, showing ways to bring One Planet Living ideas into our communities and personal lives. One Planet Living is about creating a world where everyone, everywhere lives happy, healthy lives within the limits of the planet, while also leaving space for nature. Sounds like a wonderful way to live, and something we would all want to ascribe to! Cora shares some jaw-dropping stats on our local situation with regard to sustainability, waste, and the potential we have to change at our household level. She gives you some ideas of how creative you can be in your Challenge submissions. Listen to learn more about the challenge, how to enter, what the judges will be looking for in the entries, and lots more info on this amazing organisation! Remember: May 20th deadline.

This week's episode started as a conversation at the memorial service for the late Langford Fire Chief Al LeQuesne (Ret'd). Langford Mayor Stew Young mentioned a new park being named in the Chief's honour, in consideration of his 44 years of service to the community. As someone who worked next to the Chief for a few of those years, I was happy to hear about the park, and wanted to learn more, and even happier to learn that what makes the park unique will be the fully-accessible features and equipment. It will be a revamp of the former Cressida Park, which has seen better days. The City will update it to a modern park, with more amenities than before, and it will become the standard for all new and revamped parks in Langford. The Mayor proudly notes that on southern Vancouver Island, Langford creates more parks than other jurisdictions - and has been doing that for over 15 years. With 21% of the city in parks and green spaces, they boast 2300 acres in 300 parks! In addition to the Fire Chief Al LeQuesne Memorial Park (opening in September), the 130 acre Jordie Lunn Bike Park will celebrate the Grand Opening on May 10th. It will also be the host site in July for the Red Bull World Championship Qualifier for the Red Bull UCI Pump Track World Championship in Chile - the only Canadian stop on the Qualifier circuit! Coming up, there will also be a dedication ceremony for the new Flying Firemen Park on Skirt Mountain, in honour of the 2 waterbomber pilots who died in a crash there in 1967. Our full conversation illustrated that Langford has bold plans not just for their Parks and Recreation opportunities, but also housing, education - secondary and post, environment, traffic, jobs, and economy. Too much for this episode, so stay tuned for a future episode where the rest of the conversation will show the full-service, self-sustained community and full-circle lifestyle that Langford aims for. The term “From Dogpatch to Desirable” is the teaser that we'll leave you with.

Introducing Week on Wednesday with Amazing Places. Sometimes there's interesting events happening in the region that we're interested in, but aren't able to turn into a podcast, or a representative isn't available. So we thought we'd round up a few each week and let you know some highlights. Emergency Preparedness Week until May 7th Federal, provincial, regional, and many municipal governments have information and activities for Emergency Preparedness Week. You can find preparedness tips, YouTube videos, prizes, classes/info sessions, etc. Some are through your local fire department or Emergency Programme. For individual municipalities, contact your local government. Hills To Shore Artists Tour May 7th & 8th The Hills to Shore Artists Tour has been happening for over 15 years. Open to artists in the Gordon Head, Cadboro Bay, and Mt Tolmie areas, they're very excited to be back for 2022! Featuring artists: Janet Anderson, Clare Attwell, Andrea England, Sheryl Fisher, Kari Frazer, Ginny Glover, Judi Macleod, Jenny Miller, Carol Sherwood, Sandhu Singh, and Marcela Strasdas. Mother's Day Concert May 8th 2-4pm If you've never attended the Mother's Day concert at Playfair Park in Saanich, this year would be a great time to do so! Featuring the renowned Reynolds High School Orchestra, playing against a backdrop of beautiful rhododendrons. It's a Spring tradition for many. Bring your lawn chair and enjoy the free open air concert. Jordie Lunn Bike Park Grand Opening May 10th Straight from Langford Mayor Stew Young himself, he let us know about the Grand Opening for the Jordie Lunn Bike Park. The Park is a free, one-of-a-kind recreational cycling space that caters to cyclists of all ages and abilities. Located off Irwin Rd in Langford. Curb Appeal until May 14th A community art event in the Gorge/Tillicum/Burnside neighbourhood, the Gorge Tillicum Community Association are inviting area residents to display something creative in your yard or window, on the theme “Spring Fantasy” One Planet Student Challenge Deadline for submissions: May 20th The City of Victoria and the Municipality of Saanich have teamed up with OneEarth, to host One Planet Student Challenge. Students in Grades 6-12 in Greater Victoria are invited to enter submissions - either video or illustration - to explore the question: How can we bring One Planet Living ideas into our communities and personal lives? Stay tuned for details on next week's podcast on Friday!

Museums are not dusty relics of the past - they are us; reflecting our history, showcasing what we value, helping us understand and appreciate the past. They give us a sense of our place in the world, and help us learn lessons of those who have gone before. International Museum Day is coming up on May 18th, so this episode we have archivist Sonia Nicholson from the Saanich Pioneer Society & Log Cabin Museum. The Society has been around since the late 1860s, with the Saanich Pioneer Museum built in 1933. Although located in what is now Central Saanich, the Municipality was actually Ward 6 of Saanich. So while Ward 6 seceded from Saanich in 1950, the Society name continued, as that was their history. Listen as Sonia talks about some of the challenges that small museums and archives face, especially when they are stand-alone not-for-profits. We also discuss what is coming up with the Saanich Pioneer Society as they prepare to re-open from the pandemic, the power of museums, what you can do to get involved (it's also National Volunteer Week!), and we touch on how the spark was lit for Sonia to write a book involving local history! Links for what we discuss: Saanich Pioneer Society Twitter: @SaanichPioneerS Instagram: @saanichpioneersociety Facebook: Saanich Pioneer Society @SaanichPioneerSoc International Council of Museums Twitter: @IcomOfficiel Instagram: @icomofficiel Facebook: International Council of Museums - ICOM @IcomOfficiel International Council of Museums - Canada Twitter: @ICOMCanada Facebook: ICOM Canada @ICOMCanada #IMD2022 #InternationalMuseumsDay #InternationalMuseumDay

This week we're trying something different. As you might have noticed, we sometimes like to try new things. We like to stretch our wings a little. But we get it, change might not be your thing. That's okay. Sometimes we need time to adjust. So if you aren't into this week's style of podcast, that's okay. Come back next week, when we promise, we'll return to our usual broadcasting format. ;) Today is Earth Day. Instead of talking about whatever, we decided to let the earth, and nature, do the talking. By collecting audio clips over the last week or two, we've compiled a little listening journey through some local nature spots. If you notice, though, even when deep in the woods, or in the middle of a park or beach, the sounds of humans crash through the reverie. Someone is jackhammering next to a park, someone is building something, and then there's often the constant drone of vehicles. This isn't a rant against any of those. It is cause, however, for wondering how can we escape the noise and hustle and bustle, when it's all around us? We have Dark Sky parks (not enough of them!), is there a way to have Quiet parks? Just some thoughts to consider. So sit back and relax, and take a listen to some sounds of earth and nature. WARNING: the first 3 clips are loud, so we suggest that you turn down your volume initially and adjust accordingly. Wednesday's windstorm blowing through the trees on the top of Mt Tolmie During this week's storm, the wind was louder than the waves at Island View Beach Little birds in trees and hedges in a Saanich neighbourhood Crows taking a bath in Bowker Creek in Oak Bay! That's the splashing and flapping sounds you hear In the forest next to a quiet part of Graham Creek in Centennial Park in Saanichton, and some quiet birds A bubbling section of the Bowker Creek tributary, in Cedar Hill Park A burbling section of the same creek with a variety of birds in the background A woodpecker and other birds in the copse in Cedar Hill Park, off Ocean View Rd Waves and birds on the beach at Cadboro Bay Birds in a forest at Saanichton Birds in a tree in Gyro Park Ducks in a pond and birds in the hedgerow, next to Gyro Park Waves and birds and a jackhammer at Caddy Bay Beach Rain falling on a shed, and on a window frame leaning nearby, Saanich Birds and creek at Cedar Hill Park, next to the ball diamond Finally, what could be more appropriate than making sounds on the EARTH DRUMS? Located at Cedar Hill Park, the 3 large “box drums”, by artist and carver Carey Newman, are intended to be played with the hand, and create reverberations below human hearing that resonate into the ground, making music of, and for, the earth. Happy Earth Day.

For 159 years, neither wars nor pandemics have stopped the venerable Victoria Highland Games from happening each year. We're fortunate to have Carl Jensen, the former Athletic Director of the Games, and current Central Saanich Councillor, give us an overview of what to expect next month. The Victoria Highland Games and Celtic Festival is a premier event that takes place Saturday May 21st and Sunday May 22nd at Topaz Park in Victoria. There are so many events that weekend - and a special parade and preview event the weekend before - so you'll want to take a listen and block out those dates on your calendar! In true Scottish fashion, the Games and Festival will take place rain or shine. A born storyteller, let Carl entertain you with his personal story of serendipity - thanks Peninsula News Review - and an overview of the Scottish athletic events taking place that holiday weekend. As he mentions, you can participate as well: click here for general details, and click here for how you can participate as an athlete. You don't have to be Scottish to attend, to participate, or to enjoy - as Carl says, everybody can be Scottish for the weekend!

This week we sat down with Heather Gartshore, Councillor with the District of North Saanich to talk about accessibility on the Saanich Peninsula, and what sparked the new Saanich Peninsula Accessibility Advisory Committee. Previous to the pandemic, there had been an annual Access Awareness Day held in Sidney. Last year, Councillor Terri O'Keeffe from the Town of Sidney, reached out to others on ways to move forward. The group that formed, Councillor O'Keeffe, Councillor Gartshore, Councillor Gord Newton from the Municipality of Central Saanich, North Saanich resident Charlene Froom, Central Saanich resident Dave Willows, and Jennifer Van Es from Beacon Community Services, met informally. Recognising that people with disabilities experience barriers that limit their participation in our communities, and that their needs are not always understood by local governments, the group hammered out a framework on how to work together to improve conditions for people on the Peninsula. In October of last year, the three Councillors involved, took a Notice of Motion forward to their respective Councils. All three Councils supported the initiative, staff reports were prepared, Terms of Reference were written, and staff reported back in March of this year, with applications now open for this tri-municipal advisory committee. The focus for SPAAC will be on improving livability, accessibility, and inclusion; with the purpose of providing comments and recommendations on policies, infrastructure, programmes, services, built environments, and outdoor spaces. As Heather points out, it's about ongoing awareness of people with disabilities in our communities, and “changing the culture”. The provincial Accessible BC Act was brought in, June 2021. This new Act establishes a legal framework to identify, remove, and prevent barriers for people with disabilities. (plain language version) Heather notes that although the regulatory piece of legislation is not yet in place, it appears the regulations will require municipalities to do this work, so then the 3 Peninsula local governments are actually ahead of the curve. This, combined with the co-operation between 3 government bodies, is pretty amazing in itself! The Advisory Committee citizen representative positions are open to those living with a disability or supporting someone with a disability. The deadline is April 9th, at 4pm. Applications can be found on the individual municipal websites. We met on a gloriously sunny day, on a gravel patio at a busy local cafe in North Saanich near the airport - hence the background noise from happy customers, birds, planes, crunchy footfalls on gravel, etc. It didn't seem noisy to us at the time, but apparently our super-mics picked up everything. We hope it doesn't distract you too much, but you can check out Fickle Fig for yourself! Thanks for listening.

Our lucky 13th episode of Season 2 takes us to Oak Bay. At the confluence of school district land and municipal land, lies a section of daylighted and restored Bowker Creek. It's here that we met Sidney Hurst, proud builder of the 600th Little Free Library in the Greater Victoria Placemaking Network. While talking about the 600th little library - named "Bowker Creek Books" - was our initial reason for reaching out to her, it was refreshing to sit down with a such a knowledgeable, eager, and community-minded young person. To say that Sidney is passionate about books and literacy is a bit of an understatement - she's been writing a book review blog since she was 10yrs old! We haven't heard of many 10 year old bloggers, and especially about books. She also has a goodreads page. By the time she reached 15, she apparently didn't have enough of books, so she made her first little library in her front yard. She has diverse tastes in reading, so while her favourites may change, her go-to book is "The Lie Tree" by Frances Hardinge. As part of the BC Grade 12 curriculum, students are required to have a Capstone Project. It's an opportunity for students to demonstrate their cumulative learning in a particular topic they're interested in, and Sidney wanted something that reflected literacy and sustainability. She followed those interests and decided on a little library close to her school, Oak Bay High. After researching and learning the process involved, she worked with her school principal to install one in a tranquil spot next to Bowker Creek, between Oak Bay High, Oak Bay Recreation, and Oak Bay Public Works Yard. Tranquil yet busy, with connecting pathways and nearby sports: playing fields, tennis bubble, basketball court, skate park, running track, and rec centre! A Grade 12 student at Oak Bay High, Sidney is also taking UVIC classes, and volunteering in the community, with additional interests in literacy, sustainability, PoliSci, and law. Despite her interest in politics, she's not interested in running for political office herself at this time; “Never say never”. She is however, involved federally by volunteering, and encouraging young people to get involved in politics and the political system. What else is ahead for this bright young teen? She's looking forward to more placemaking that engages the community and the school. If you can't get enough of books, we highly recommend you check out Sidney's Instagram for books beautifully presented and descriptively reviewed. (Apologies for the uneven audio in a couple of places - we're still working on perfecting the lavalier mic.)

We've changed it up this week! Haven't we all spent enough time inside? We sure have, so we decided to go outside and explore an amazing place. Come along as we wander through Centennial Park in Saanichton. Established in 1958, this park covers 18.42 hectares/45.5 acres is a green jewel in the heart of Central Saanich. An accessible park with something for everyone, it has everything from sports to forest to picnics to hiking to relaxing and contemplating life. Speculate with us as to what lies in the deep tree root hole. Hmmm…? Meet the cute Bernadoodle, Kipper, who even has his own Instagram account (@kipperthebernedoodle). Pick up some Alpaca wool from Sea Dog Farm, go for a swing, or relax to the sounds of Graham Creek. We spent almost 2 hours just wandering, and hope that you'll be inspired to get outside in any weather and go wander. Please let us know what you think - do you have a special wander that you'd like to share? Would you like us to come on a wander with you, and you can tell us what makes your wander an amazing place? Check out our social media accounts for photos and videos.

LFLs: Community Hubs and Coral Reefs When is a Little Free Library like a coral reef? When Teale Phelps Bondaroff explains the role that libraries play in our local neighbourhoods, as they form hubs that attract the community. Teale is on the Board of the Greater Victoria Placemaking Network, is a Principal with The Idea Tree Consulting, and the current Lead on the Pocket Places Project. Started in 2017, the Project has overseen the mapping, building, promoting, and stocking of little libraries in our area. He sees LFLs as a form of placemaking and “placemaking is softening the hard edges of a city”. So much more than books, these pocket places of community have expanded to include puzzles, games, toys, seeds, poetry centres, bulletin boards, art supplies, mini art galleries, and plants! Factoid: To date, the Project has stocked 57,059 books to little libraries throughout the Capital Region, with 30,000 of those being delivered by bike trailer! Did you know that there's even a Bingo Card that you can play as you visit these creative and whimsical book boxes? Join us as we talk about that and no-risk blind dating, learn where the “Swiss Army knife” of little libraries is located, and which streets have 5 - count ‘em FIVE - libraries on them! If you're inspired to know more, or want to get involved in a little library in your neighbourhood, find info here. To further explore Happy City, the book that Teale references, check out @HappyCitiesTeam on Twitter and @happy.cities on Instagram. To pick up a copy, please consider supporting our local booksellers: Munro's Books, Bolen Books, Russell Books, and if you're listening in the Lower Mainland: Massy Books. Thanks for listening!

What's New In North Quadra? Is this week's episode about the North Quadra Community Association, or about Beckwith Park? Both figure prominently as we talk to the new NQCA President, Trevor Barry. He joins us to talk about what's new and what's happening in their area. Speaking of new, Michele gets reminded that the new term for the Saanich Public Works Yard, is now the Saanich Operations Centre, as we touch on what's possibly changing at that location. We talk about leadership, and how to encourage that within a community association - supporting people in their strengths. Trevor also lets us in on what's coming up for their group and the whole community, and why you should mark May 15th in your calendar! He also gives a shout-out to the Oaklands Community Association, taking an idea out of their neighbourhood ideas playbook. Find out more. Contact Trevor: President @ NorthQuadra . ca

So we're turning the tables and we're flipping the script on the original Amazing Places Podcast host this week. After a few months of shows on her own, Michele has invited Dean Murdock back to the podcast. This time he's here as the spokesperson for Better Mobility Saanich. This community-based group advocates for improving mobility in Saanich, to have it a more mobility-friendly place for all - from children to seniors, and through all modes of travel. We touch on CBC comedy, and the possibility of doing a parenting humour podcast. Plus, Dean has a surprise announcement up his sleeve, so stay tuned as we get the scoop on what he's up to!

If you haven't yet heard of Basil Langevin, Amazing Places is happy to introduce you. Basil has been leading an LGBT non-profit for seven years, and is an amazing advocate for safer streets and active transportation models. A multi-faceted individual, he does a lot of behind-the-scenes work in our community, from research on traffic safety, to pulling invasive species and planting native species. In conversation, Basil brings facts and strategies on ways to improve our municipality. Check his posts on Twitter at @BasilLangevin, and be sure to watch for his website - BasilLangevin.ca - debuting on Monday, February 28th! Join us for a chat about current issues in Saanich, that apply across the CRD, and learn more about this up-and-coming local resident. (The tree "giveaway" that I refer to is the annual Saanich Parks tree programme for National Tree Day. Learn more about taking care of your trees.)

An educator and facilitator at the University of Victoria, an online instructor at the University of BC, an associate faculty at Royal Roads University, a changemaker in the community, and a human rights and equity advocate in Canada, Dr Moussa Magassa brings his quiet wisdom to Amazing Places. He shares with us the concept of Ubuntu, and how it shapes his personal belief system. Humans and humanity are also at the core of how Moussa interacts with the world: ‘Celebration is because we have people to celebrate with'. In this month of February, designated as Black History Month, Moussa reminds us that Black history, recognition, and excellence is not only one month. Bringing light and enlightenment, his work as a change-maker includes all of us in our communities. We talk about going to space and making space; and for the 2nd week in a row, Mahatma Gandhi gets a shout-out!

What could be a more amazing place than an inclusive safe place? There will be safe places for more people locally, thanks to Eric Misener, a constable with the Saanich Police Dept. Police-initiated, but with fulsome community input, Eric spearheaded the Saanich Police Safe Place programme, which originated with Seattle Police Dept. The Saanich PD Safe Place programme aims to increase safety for marginalised members of our community, including the IBPOC, LGBTQ2S, and unhoused communities. Along with SPD colleagues, the group consulted with the Greater Victoria Police Diversity Advisory Committee, Victoria Pride Society and the Inter-Cultural Association of Greater Victoria. SPD Safe Place designations have already been made at most Saanich Municipality facilities, along with Saanich Fire, Saanich Recreation, and Saanich Emergency Programme. Listen in as Eric explains the programme, why it's important, and how your business or employer can get involved. He also shares some mental health insights and tells us about his “fish room”!

Amazing is right HERE! As the Founder, CEO, & Managing Editor of HERE Magazine, and the parent organisation, REP Here In Canada, Fiona Bramble is constantly in motion. Fortunately, we were able to have her sit down long enough to have a chat. While Fiona and HERE are based in Victoria, she connects people and communities across Canada. Both funny and touching, she shares stories about newcomers, immigrants, and refugees along the way. She has gathered a wide array of people and organisations around her to collaborate on some amazing events and programmes. From arts to job skills to health to literacy to technology, listen to how the HERE team employs an innovative approach in their outreach. We'll also reminisce about why we both get verklempt on the significance of a photo with BC Premier John Horgan. We hope that you'll enjoy learning more about this inclusive and diverse community, within our community.

In advance of a municipal election in the early 1900s, there was a scandal that hit Saanich. Saanich Archives Specialist, Kimberly Head, tells us the tale of Cowper's Caper - when Municipal Clerk Hector Cowper embezzled thousands from the Municipality of Saanich! Where did the money go, and was Hector the only thief involved? Who gave him glowing character references? Join us for local intrigue, mystery, and a look at how differently such scandals were handled back then. When you're done listening, check out the Saanich Archives at https://saanich.ca/archives

Colwood is calling. Here at Amazing Places, we heard the call, so we invited Colwood Councillor Gordie Logan to join us this week. We've got parks and politics on the table, and especially the jewel - Latoria Creek Park. Give us a listen; you'll learn how extensive the Colwood park network really is, what's planned for this summer, his personal apple fritter recommendation, park accessibility, and even the location of a hidden gem. That's right - he spills the tea on a Colwood secret! In true gremlin style, it appears one snuck in and snipped the last few minutes of this week's podcast. While we're missing Councillor Logan extolling the virtues of living in Colwood, and his welcome message to businesses to invest in Colwood, you can be sure we'll ask him back in the future. Oh, and there's the subject of a safe Galloping Goose crossing still to be discussed!

While we could have talked to seismologist John Cassidy for hours, we managed to pack a whole lot of information into 30 minutes. Join us as he takes us on a learning journey, covering the 3 types of local earthquakes, which municipality in the CRD is the geological newcomer, how to know that a tsunami has been generated, revealing just how close the Devil's Mountain Fault is to Victoria, giving us a whole lot of resources, and telling us the fascinating story behind an upcoming 322nd anniversary! https://earthquakescanada.nrcan.gc.ca/index-en.php https://www.oceannetworks.ca/innovation-centre/smart-ocean-systems/earthquake-early-warning https://www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/safety/emergency-management/preparedbc https://www.crd.bc.ca/prepare-yourself https://www.getprepared.gc.ca/index-en.aspx https://www.shakeoutbc.ca/

A small organisation with a big heart, Community Options for Children and Families works rather quietly in our region, supporting children, adults, and families. In true, "It takes a village" style, COCF Executive Director Kathleen Burton explains who supports them in supporting community. Learn about opportunities on how you can join in this village, as well as a wonderful fundraiser that local business Heirloom Linens is doing to support COCF. Please join us for our Season 2 opener, as we talk about volunteering, tie-dyeing, community, government, planting flowers, not-for-profits, and barbeques and picnics!

Are you making a resolution that you want, or that you're "supposed" to want? Teacher, Saanich Councillor, and CRD Chair Colin Plant, joins us this week to talk about parks, hiking, favourite local brunch spot, physical fitness, mental wellness, and New Year's resolutions. At this time last year, Colin and his wife Catherine went for a hike, and agreed to make time for health and each other, every week. They have managed to keep that resolution all year long in 2021. Listen along for his insight into how he managed to do that, and how you might too in 2022!

As Christmas Eve falls on a Friday this year, we decided to change it up this week. We're publishing a day early, and this is not your usual Amazing Places podcast! Author and award-winning journalist Jean Paetkau has returned to bring us all a special treat: she's reading her holiday poem, "Twas A Snufflewort Christmas". We've positioned it as a bedtime story for children, but use it however you wish, whether before your afternoon nap, or to settle the little ones for a long winter's nap. Kerchiefs and caps optional. ;)

Did you know that your local school might be part of the School-Based Weather Station Network, victoriaweather.ca? Schools up and down Vancouver Island, as well as a few other buildings, have compact weather stations on their rooves! Ed Wiebe, from UVIC's School of Earth and Ocean Sciences, joins us on this episode, to give us the history of the project, the challenges during a pandemic, and fascinating weather info from cold fronts to a meteotsunami! While I've used the website for years to check weather in my neighbourhood, Ed provides much more context as to all the ways the collected data can be used. If you're a weather buff, you'll enjoy listening.

How did you spend the height of the pandemic? Step in to the world of the Snuffleworts, with award-winning journalist Jean Paetkau, who along with her 2 children, wrote a wonderful tale that adults and children can enjoy.

Episode 62 of Amazing Places! Are you prepared for natural and climate disasters? This week we're talking to local emergency preparedness expert, Ian Foss. Originally intended this episode to highlight his baking exploits during the pandemic, recent emergencies in BC have us focusing on how we can prepare for such emergencies. (And we still managed to fit in some baking!)

Episode 61 of Amazing Places! This week Michele Sealey, local writer and communications specialist, steps in front of the microphone for a special episode that's all about Amazing Places!

Episode 60 of Amazing Places! What even is a Woonerf?? You may have seen it at Oaklands Rise. Or maybe you've been impressed by them in European cities. John O'Brien & Robin Drader drop by the podcast to tell us about the sidewalk-free walking experience that is the Oaklands Rise Woonerf. https://www.im-creator.com/free/oaklandsrise/oaklandsrisewoonerf

Episode 59 of Amazing Places! The Cridge Centre for the Family has been a fixture in our community for 148 years. Adam Richards and Joanne Linka stop by the podcast to talk about the amazing services and people who support our community's most vulnerable. Adam Richards is the Cridge Centre CEO. Joanne Linka is the Manager, Communications and Fund Development. Check out the Cridge Centre services: https://cridge.org/

A special federal election episode of Amazing Places! Housing is a major issue in this election. Housing Analyst, Leo Spalteholz is on the podcast this week to tell us what each of the federal parties is promising and what it will mean for getting housing built in the Capital Region. Leo is a contributor to the blog househuntvictoria.ca

Episode 57 of Amazing Places! Will Saanich succeed in creating more housing in the community? Saanich Councillor Zac de Vries is back on the podcast this week to talk about Saanich's brand new Housing Strategy. We discuss some of the actions identified in the strategy and what it will take to have a meaningful impact. You can find Saanich's Housing Strategy here: https://www.saanich.ca/assets/Community/Documents/Planning/housing-strategy-web.pdf

Episode 56 of Amazing Places! We spend millions on highways, overpasses and fly-overs and end up with the same result - more traffic. Eric Doherty thinks that investing in Rapid Transit will move more people, more quickly, with fewer GHG emissions. Eric Doherty is the co-chair of Greater Victoria Acting Together's Climate Action Research Team Check out Greater Victoria Acting Together http://www.gvat.ca/

Episode 55 of Amazing Places! Neil Arason is back to talk about sustainable transportation. We discuss the environmental impacts of motor vehicles and our transportation system. Neil offers more sustainable solutions, including the 15-minute city and inter-city rail travel. Neil is a road safety expert and author of No Accident: Eliminating Injury and Death on Canadian Roads https://www.wlupress.wlu.ca/Books/N/No-Accident2

Episode 54 of Amazing Places! Creating places for people is a passion for my returning guest this week. Dr. Teale Phelps Bondaroff has his third turn on the podcast to talk about the growing number of Little Free Libraries and why we should put art on the roads.

*The content of this episode may be disturbing for some listeners* Episode 53 of Amazing Places! This week, Sher Wilson joins us to share the incredible story of her son Matthew's experience of transformation with the support of staff at the Wilkinson Correctional Centre in Greater Victoria. Sher's story is a powerful one that she hopes will raise awareness about the need for mental heath support in our correctional system. Read Sher's story in the Saanich News: https://www.saanichnews.com/news/mother-says-sons-life-turned-around-at-saanich-jail/

Episode 52 of Amazing Places! Nicole Chaland is the author of a recent report on solving homelessness in the Capital Region. We discuss the major findings and recommendations of the report and if it might really make a meaningful difference.