Madrona Marketplace Update

Madrona Marketplace still expects to open for business April 1st. Over the next couple weeks you will see the exterior finishing completed as electrical, plumbing and concrete slabs are undertaken inside. Tenants are busy working on signage, ordering equipment and stock, as well as build out plans for each unit. Sounds like there is going to be some amazing retail and office interiors! Excitingly, Slice of Life Gallery and Gift store is the newest to join Madrona Marketplace leaving only one 700 sq ft space! Mark Whalen and Maarten Perera of Slice of Life will offer art supplies and interesting giftware in the dramatic art gallery space. The "coffee place" which has been called the "coffee place" now has a name; it will open up as Mad Rona"s Coffee Bar and offer everyone's favorite espresso drinks alongside excellent brewed coffee, pastries and treats. As we get closer to completion we will announce our grand opening and advise of any newcomers to Madrona Marketplace!

Happenings on the Island.

You may have visited the Island during the summer and caught a glimpse of where the new retail space “Madrona Marketplace” was going to be created (on North Road, where the T&T gas station used to be). Progress is happening quickly, the footings are in place, the framing of the East phase is nearly complete, and the trusses were delivered last week.

With the first phase 90% leased, here's a list of local businesses to look forward to at the new marketplace; Tree Frog Sports and Clothing, The Sounder, Architrave Design Build, Woodfire Pizza and Pasta, Blueapples Metaphysical and Wellness, a contemporary coffee house, as well as two private offices.

We’ll update you as progress is being made and retailers have been confirmed so that you know what the Island looks like and what you’ll be greeted with the next time you visit Gabriola.

(photo taken on Nov 18 2009)

Clients & Friendships

When you live on an island that centers on community, it seems only natural for clients to turn into lifelong friends. I’ve experienced this several times during my Real Estate career and I’m so thankful that this is one of the benefits.

One of my first sales was to a family from the United States, buying a vacation home on Gabriola. Over the years, they have become our extended family. My husband, kids and I just went down to visit them in California and had an amazing 10 day dream vacation.

I know that it sometimes can be difficult to mix friendships and business, but this was just a reminder to me that there is always a way to make things work and I’m so glad that we did as it’s a huge gift to have this family in our lives. (submitted by: Tina Lynch)

Gabriola Wine Festival!

To be honest, I really enjoy a glass of wine at the end of the day and I’m still training my taste buds to distinguish a good glass of wine. On Saturday, September 26 the Surf Lodge ( 885 Berry Point, Gabriola Island) is hosting the 6th Annual Wine Festival from 3:30-6pm. You’ll be treated to a selection of over 100 wines to taste, you’ll want to pick up your $30 ticket soon from the Village Liquor Store or Artworks. Submitted by: Tina LYNCH

Got Your Number.

If you’re new to the Island, changed your name or your number, or if you started a business you’ll want to make sure that you fill out a business or residential application from the http://gabrioladirectory.com/application/ . Applications, artwork and payment are by October 31 2009. The Gabriola Island Community Directory is the most commonly used phone book on the Island for looking up friends, businesses and services so you don’t want to miss out, we may be looking you up to go for a coffee !

Gabriola B&B Association Hosts Open House

Gabriola is a destination for many tourists whether it be to enjoy the kayaking around the gulf islands sea shore, scuba diving, a wonderful golf course, walking trails, our summer time markets, the island winery, & a visit to some of the many artisans that make Gabriola there home…

If you would like to stay overnight on Gabriola Island and explore the island in greater depth, there are many Bed and Breakfast establishments located either on the waterfront or near the ocean.

You are invited this Sunday, 3 May 2009 - to tour the 12 bed and breakfasts that comprise the Gabriola Bed and Breakfast Association from noon to 3:00. Maps and brochures available at Art Works and Beaches Convenience Store. The B&B associations website can also be found online at: http://www.gabriola-accommodation.com/accommodation.com/ , where there is photos, write ups and links to the B&B's personal webpages.

*Be sure to stop by Jupiter Ranch on the tour, who are also featuring an art sale of works by two very talented ladies on the island, Sylvie Milman & Tammy Hudgeon.

A perfect 10… Coast Realty Group (Gabriola Village) Ltd. celebrates a 10 year milestone.

We are excited to celebrate Coast Realty Group (Gabriola Village) Ltd. 10th year anniversary on 1 May 2009. A company based on “People. Above All,” the company has grown over the years to include 13 Realtors® & our 2 amazing support staff.

As the Realtors in the office are fortunate to live and work in this community, there is a strong sense of pride and recognition of the Quality of Life that Gabriola offers. Coast Realty has very much enjoyed the opportunity to serving the island, and has been active in the community, from it’s annual Easter Egg Hunt, youth softball, to sponsorships which help put on events such as the Dancing Man Festival, Concert on the Green, Home & Garden and so much more….

Having worked for this dynamic company for the past 10 years, we feel very fortunate to have met and had the opportunity to work with some amazingly talented people both in the office & the new neighbors who have allowed us the opportunity to help them relocate.

Roots Show

Be prepared to be dazzled as you enter the ROOTS show, hosted at Artworks in the Village, there are still three days left to treat your eyes to this community art event.

This years theme really challenged the artists... We were very impressed with the creativity that was invoked by this show and the ages and diversity of the participants.

If you have a chance to go, have a look at Melinda Wilde's painting as it tells a very interesting story about family in a beautiful way. Another piece that I found intriguing is Donna Zakreski's quilt, she has a very artistic approach to quilting. Of course, I need to mention the family members who also have their pieces in the show, Randi's "14 carrots" incorporates her love of quilting into an amazing fiber art piece, and Bianca, my 6 year old niece for her brilliant painting entitled Hungry, after her neighborhood rabbit - who gave grief to her garden! (Congratulations B. on the sale of your very first piece- with her family roots I'm sure it's the first of many more to come...)

There is also a silent auction which has numerous items; from the beautiful driftwood coffee table, to tempting jewellery, island services & so much more, it's a great place to stock up on gifts for friends and family, while supporting the Gabriola Arts Council.

This Community has "Roots"

The Gabriola Arts Council has come up with another theme for this years Community Art Show. This year they have chosen "Roots" and I can see that the community is gearing up for the fun filled event. Those wanting to participate this year will need to fill out a registration form (available by email from gabriolaartscoucil@shaw.ca) and have their art piece ready for Monday, April 21 by 4pm.

You'll see a range of artistic interpretations of the theme, mediums, sizes, and ages of the artists. It's pretty fulfilling for anyone to have an art piece hanging up in a Gallery and this is your chance. In the past, I have participated in the heart, star & off-the-beach shows. I've always come away from the shows amazed by the diverse art pieces that are created on the Island.

The"Roots" community art show opens with a reception at Artworks on 23 April 2009 at 7:00 - 9:00 pm, and the show runs through until 3 May.

Golf Anyone???

Fortunate to have grown up on Gabriola, one of my recreational past times was Golf. The Gabriola golf course offers a very challenging nine hole course. If it is not enough to have to deal with the twist & turns of the fairways, rolling hills (or slightly steeper), the quiet country road that runs along side & has the occasional moving target of a vehicle, then the long fairways definitely add an element excitement!

The picturesque course is set overlooking & encompassing the views of Hogan Lake, which doubles as a water feature… The log constructed clubhouse offers the perfect vantage point to enjoy watching the golfers tee off their games, as well as putt in at the end, it’s also a nice place for a social setting whether it be just having come in from a game, or just enjoying this spectacular picturesque setting. The licensed lounge can accommodate seating up to 60 with room to dance, and the clubhouse has the ability to cater events. For more information on the Gabriola’s Golf Clubs Events check it out online at http://www.gabriolagolf.com .

Golf Anyone???

Home Inspectors to be licensed in BC

In January, the BC government announced that as of the 31 March 2009, home inspectors will need to be licensed. BC is the first province in Canada to license home inspectors to better protect buyers & ensure qualified inspections.

Currently, a home inspector training is voluntary thus leading to different levels of training and qualifications.

After consultation from consumers and the industry the province opted for licensing under the Business Practices & Consumer Protection Authority (BPCPA) – this will help home buyers on Gabriola and throughout BC, to ensure that the person doing the inspection has the qualifications to make a professional assessment. It will also offer home inspectors the backing of a professional organization to help ensure that the home inspector follows their standards of practices & codes of ethics.

The BPCPA will protect the buyer’s interest by:
· Assessing the qualifications of & requiring mandatory licenses for home inspectors.
· Receiving & responding to complaints from consumers.
· Monitoring compliance through inspection & enforcement, with penalties.

In order to find out if a home inspector is licensed ask a home inspector to show you a current license issued by the BPCPA. Or check the website at: www.bpcpa.ca to verify that your home inspector is licensed.

Additional information on the licensing of Home Inspectors is available online at the Business Practices & Consumers Protection Authority Website at: www.bpcpa.ca .

Madrona Marketplace - New Retail Development

Intrascape Developments is pleased to offer an opportunity to lease retail premises in the village of Gabriola Island at Madrona Marketplace - East. This will be Gabriola Island's newest retail development at 520 North Road. Madrona Marketplace - East (Phase 2) will include six units ranging from 1000 sqft to 2600 sqft, with potential of combining units for custom sizes and will be available for occupancy in the Fall of 2009. Phase 1 will be located on the property's east end at the juncture between North & South Road. Phase two of Madrona Marketplace will feature an additional 21,500 square feet of retail space ranging from 1000 square feet to 6,000 square feet in 12 units. Madrona Marketplace East & West will stand as the centerpiece of the North & South Road confluence, evolving as Gabriola Island's newly defined vibrant ton center.

Set in a phenomenal location, will stand this contemporary, West Coast development that will provide a special opportunity for a select group of retailers to serve the needs of a growing local population, tourists, visitors and workers alike in a stunning development. In return Gabriola will benefit from increased services and a dynamic, exciting and professional retail acumen. Madrona Marketplace will feature West Coast architecture using natural materials and colors, aside pedestrian friendly covered walkways, arbours and a center courtyard that will serve as a point of gathering, shopping and community pride.

When completed, Madrona Marketplace East & West will be home to more than 33,000 square feet of unique retail space. For additional information on this exciting retail opportunity contact Chris Hock of Intrascape Developments at #250.739.0330.

New Shiatsu Studio on Gabriola

A new Shiatsu Studio has opened on Gabriola... I was very excited to receive a gift certificate to a full hour of relaxation - what a treat!

By gentle manipulation and pressure of certain acu-points and stretching, Olirach was able to re-establish a smooth flow of energy - so much so that I drifted off in a light sleep. The techniques used by Olirach are based on Chinese medicine and tailors the treatment to the unique individual needs of the client.

There website at http://www.olirach.com/ has lots of additional information including a free upcoming workshop on Introduction to Mind & Body Well-Being: tools for living. As well as information on how to book their Valentine's Day February special: where during February only they are offering 'Buy one Shiatsu get one Free' specially for couples.

Discover the benefits of a relaxing, rejuvenating Shiatsu Massage. Submitted by: Randi Lynch.

The Silver Lining

In the midst of a sunny Sunday afternoon feathers flutter as a flock of 29 homing pigeons leave their loft with wings that dance across the sky, replicating the silver lining of a cloud.

After witnessing this event several times with the kids in the car, I wanted to take a closer look, so I headed out with the kids and some friends to visit Kelly Waugh & Laura Marino at Island Ceremonial White Dove Releases (www.islanddoves.com) at 1970 South Road, Gabriola. This is home to 130 beautiful birds that are well cared for and fed. The owners make a special feed for the birds by combining hard red wheat, peas, popcorn, safflower, milo, flax seed and barley. A tour around the property gives more insight, there are the white racer homing pigeons (a descendent of the rock dove) which can be taken to special events and released, getting home in incredible timing and creating a spectacular memory at weddings, memorials & special celebrations. The beautiful and alluring Indian fan tail pigeons, which can make a fantastic sight in the white heart shaped display case. The Birmingham rollers were fun to watch, the just seemed to fall from the sky spinning backward somersaults with amazing control and then in an instant they were back to regular flight. They also have Donek pigeons (a greek diving, spinning bird) and Oriental Rollers from Persia and Asia minor.

We learned quite a bit & have been busy since, my daughter was allowed to take an egg home so she's busy since making a nest and putting one of her stuffies on to see if it will hatch, Kelly of course knows it isn't possible but being mom I need to play along. Sumbitted by: Tina Lynch

Gabriola Island Rentals…

Gabriola Island, has nearly a 0% vacancy rate, rentals are hard to come by, when it comes to year round rentals… However, in the past few months there has been an increase in the rentals currently available on the island - which is good news to tenants seeking rental accommodations on the island.

In comparison to Nanaimo, the rental rates on the island seem to offer far more for tenants, in the size of properties, potential for gardens, the wide variety of styles of homes, and the rental rates. For tenants seeking accommodations the best place to search for available homes is in the classified section of the Sounder, the Rental tab on www.coastrealty.com , the bulletin boards around the island, as well as local islanders (who may know of some).

An example of a rental that is currently available on the island is… South end character home (wood floors & slate tile) of 3 bedrooms/2 bathrooms. A detached studio ideal for artists, and detached garage. Walking distance to the beach & Degnen Bay. Fenced in garden area with raised beds. (No pets/no smokers), references required $1,000/mo.

For home owners, there are property management agencies available to hand the rental aspects of the property, should you not want to handle it on your own. Brenda Gilroy of Coast Realty offers property management services for Gabriola, and can be contacted through the Nanaimo office at #250-758-7653. The typical tenants for the island may include; young families, daily commuters to Nanaimo, Boat Building School students, & Timber Frame School students, Retirees, and trades people, to give some examples.

In regards to short term rentals, of less than 30 days, also known as Vacation rentals, these are permitted on Gabriola but only if a temporary use permit is obtained. The temporary use permit involves an application to the Islands Trust with a fair amount of information required and an $800.00 application fee. There is no guarantees that a permit will be granted. The islands trust also does due diligence in looking through the area of how many are already in existence, if there are concerns of any neighbors, septic, water capabilities, and so much more. Because of the time line for going through the full application process, one would not be able to make this a condition of purchase, so you would be purchasing a property with no guarantees of receiving the permit. Mostly the vacation rentals tend to be centered around waterfront properties & or properties with relatively easy beach accesses, although the companies sometimes take on other homes that fit additional criteria.

Gabriola Dance Classes - For Children & Adults

Gabriola has a new Dance instructor who is offering a variety of courses catering to both children & adults. The classes start this Saturday at the Agi Hall and this Saturdays classes are free! There is a variety of different classes listed below, including Pilates for teens & adults...

Adult classes on Sat. & Thursday.
Kids’ classes are on Saturdays and include a dress-up or storytelling session at the end for younger children. In class recitals on last day. Young children should wear comfortable clothing. Girls over 5 should wear tights, leotard and ballet slippers if possible. Boys should wear black shorts and white shirt and slippers.

Parent and Tot- You are welcome to accompany your 2 ½ to 4 year old to this class. In this class Children play with music as they learn simple choreography and explore their own creations. Emphasis is on creativity, music appreciation and listening skills. An in class recital will be held on the last day. Saturday 9:15-9:45 $40.00

Creative Dance for pre-schoolers. In this class girls and boys will wiggle like spaghetti and leap like a dolphin while learning the fundamentals of dance technique. For even more fun, each class will conclude with dress-up or storytelling. An in class recital will be held on the last day. Saturday 11:30-12:30 $60

Kinderdance- Specially designed for your kindergartener, this class introduces the young dancer to their first real steps. Time will be spent both at the Barre and in the Centre. The dancer will begin to learn the artistic vocabulary associated with dance while they create their own choreography. For even more fun, each class will conclude with dress-up or storytelling. An in class recital will be held on the last day. Saturday 12:45-2 $65.00

Creative Dance-6-9years old- In this class, children will begin to explore the world of dance on a deeper level with the focus on fun! Barre and Centre work will focus on alignment and body awareness. Some basic anatomy will be taught as well. For even more fun, each class will conclude with dress-up or storytelling. An in class recital will be held on the last day. Saturday 2:15-3:30 $65

Creative Dance –10-12 years old- Dancers in this class will be taught at the Barre, in the Centre and across the floor with a focus on strong technique. An emphasis on artistry will be fostered through fun creative choreography, lyrical dance and storytelling. An in class recital will be held on the last day. Saturday 3:45-5 $65

Teen Ballates-This fun class is a combination of the core strengthening techniques of mat pilates and the artistry of ballet technique. Participants will develop a strong body and keen technical skills that will benefit them in any other dance form or sport. Contemporary and classical music will be used for centre choreography. Musical suggestions are welcome for the creative dance section which wraps up the class. Sunday afternoon at The Gathering Place 247-8020 for info

Pilates- Mara is a BCRPA certified pilates instructor. The beauty of Plates is that exercises are adaptable to suit seniors with medical concerns as well as to suit the most fit of atheletes. In this class, participants will learn the basics of Beginner Mat Pilates including correct breathing, pelvic, spinal, shoulder stabilization and how to strengthen the core and back muscles. The benefits of this practice include firm abdominals, realignment of posture, stronger back, increased strength & flexibility and the alleviation of aches and pains. Please bring a towel or mat. Saturday and/or Thursday 5-6 $70 for one class a week. Save 20% on your 2nd adult class, 30% on your 3rd class and 40% on your 4th class. Teens also welcome to register. Drop in’s welcome -$13

Adult Ballet – Don’t worry-it’s not scary! These lighthearted classes help the beginner and advanced dance student to explore the art of dance in a safe and challenging environment. Mara will guide you through a traditional floor warm up, ballet barre, centre and stretch emphasizing correct placement and encouraging flexibility, while building strength, coordination and musicality. While the execution of skills is the outwardly appearance of dance, a truly skilled dancer understands that dance is an art form. Mara infuses this philosophy into her classes so that dancers gain an understanding and appreciation of their relationships to dance. Saturday 10-11:30 and Thursday 7-8:30 $80 for one class a week. Save 20% on your 2nd adult class, 30% on your 3rd class and 40% on your 4th class. Teens also welcome to register. Drop in’s welcome-$15.

BIOGRAPHY: Miss Mara grew up in Montreal where she began to dance 30 years ago. After training in the Danish Ballet technique and teaching ballet for the City of Montreal she moved to Bowen Ialsnd where she has been a dancer, choreographer and ballet teacher for 10 years. Her view of ballet as an art form resonates with honesty and passion. Now living on Gabriola, she promises to create ballet and pilates programs for children, teens, adults and seniors that encourage the development of strong technique, body awareness, poise, and grace. It is her hope that students will be given opportunities to perform in community based events and eventually hold their own full scale productions. Dance is a joyful, kinetic experience that encourages skill building, focus, creative thought and an appreciation for one’s self and the arts. Mara’s classes are designed to provide an enriched dance experience in a supportive and safe environment, while also ensuring dancers of every age develop a love and appreciation for dance that lasts a lifetime.


Mara Brenner 250-247-8538

Checking the neighborhood fridge.

It’s the perfect place, just a short two minute walk down a quiet street the kids run to see if there are any fresh veggies growing in Dennis’s road side stand on Thompson Road. If you’re interested in the 100 mile diet, look in your own neighborhood to see what might be available. Dennis supplies many happy customers with kale, strawberries, raspberries, cucumber, zucchini and fresh greens, just to mention a few. I’m always delighted to see a fresh bouquet of Dahlia’s from the stand sitting on my table, for about $4.00 it’s definitely worth the warmth they bring into a home or the smile on a friend’s face.

The other neighborhood fridge, is literally everyone in the neighborhoods, it’s great when you run out of your essential grocery items to knock on a door and arrange a trade for that much needed milk for your morning pancakes, rather than driving in your car to go to the grocery store. We enjoy when this happens and when our friends and neighbors end up making good neighbor cookies, a compilation of eggs from one neighbor, flour from another and chocolate chips from the family at the end of the street, the trade off for this is usually a few freshly baked cookies & time talking to the people that surround you.

New Years Resolutions - Health & Fitness

Well it’s the New Year, and the first day of the resolutions that were made from last nights celebrations! Towards the top of my list (a rather lengthy one) for 2009 again, comes a personal fitness goal.

On Gabriola it’s great, in that there are many options available… A couple of the ones that I have explored an found as great options are;

Lesley Standerwicks classes & programs ranging from cross conditioning to her 8 week fat loss program. Lesley is an excellent instructor full of enthusiasm and has a Bachelor in Human Kinetics as well a being ACE certified, as a personal trainer. Programs start in the third week of January. Phone #250-619-9341 or email: standerwickpt@gmail.com , she also offers Personal Fitness training to help achieve your personal goals.

The Gym at Twin Beaches – open from Monday through Saturday the Gym offers a great mixture of equipment including; cardio, strength training, as well as balance. I’m looking forward in getting back to the gym, not only for the great equipment and space but the social atmosphere provided there! They also offer a variety of classes or workshops. Phone #250-247-8070.

There are many options including several Yoga, Creative Dance, Tai-Chi, & sporting options, and walking groups, trails, etc. Hopefully I’ll be seeing you at some of these in 2009!

A great place for Animal Lovers

Gabriola seems to draw quite a number of people with a love of animals. It's noticeable by the number of organizations you'll find here that are devoted to helping and rescuing our two & four legged friends or our winged companions.

Gabriola Rescue of Wildlife Society provides care for injured or orphaned wildlife, to find more about them or join them as a volunteer visit http://www.growls.ca/about.php .

Big Heart Rescue recently raised over $4000.00 at the Skol pub in one night, this organization is dedicated to helping animals in BC that are in need, to find out about adopting or fostering one of their rescues please visit http://www.bigheartrescue.com/aboutus.htm .

If you like cats, Gabriola Cats Alive rescues abandoned cats. If you've lost an animal, the first place to check is Gabriola Pet Find the number to reach them at is 250.247.8654.

In addition to the many organizations, the island also has an amazing vetrinary clinic, run by owners Thomas Uhlig & Patricia Leather, Twin Cedars, #250-247-9185. The island is lucky to have their services as they offer exceptional care of our favorite four legged friends!

December 1st - Countdown to the Holidays...

Living on Gabriola, known as the Island of the Arts there is never any shortage of great local gift giving ideas... With the holiday season approaching so quickly, here are a few more of our favorites...

Music CD’s – the Kerplunks http://www.thekerplunks.com/
Kerplunks: If you have kids on your list then the kerplunks CD is a great gift… The Kerplunks play fun and educational kids' music focusing on all the different musical instruments. Toot your horn and strum that bass, The Kerplunks really get you groovin'. The Kerplunks were recently Canadian Folk Music “Children’s Album of the Year”. You can visit their website online to hear a sampling of the cheerful and upbeat music of Dinah D and Tina Jones.


Jewellery @ Artworks
On display & sale currently at Artworks you’ll find a spectacular jewellery shoe featuring some of the islands most popular artists including; Paprika, Moonshine Studio, Yuma Designs, Kate Woods, Lindsey Godfrey & Maureen O’Connor. The stunning creations are sure to light up the face of your loved ones on Christmas morning!


Merrell Shoes @ Colleen’s located at: 580 North Road
Since the island is so full of places to explore a good pair of walking shoes are always appreciated… “MERRELL is dedicated to the outdoor journey of discovery -the search for self-knowledge, meaning, friendship, and fulfillment that links the world's people who enjoy the outdoors. Whether born on the mountain or raised in the city, enjoyment of the outdoor is independent of age, income, occupation or culture.” On the island where we love our time outdoors this may be the perfect gift of comfort & Colleen’s has lots of styles to choose from, in addition to her family fashions & home furnishings…


A Gift of Relaxation Registered Massage Therapist: 250-247-7667
How about an hour or a half hour massage from one of our islands registered massage therapist, Tammy Birch. Melt away your stress. Feel the tension just slip away as you experience a blissfully luxurious session…


Gabriola Elementary School Craft Fair December 6 @ Gabriola Elementary
This is an exciting opportunity featuring a variety of island artists so you can do your shopping all in one place! In addition to the craft fair the famous cookie walk is a great way to support school activities, while avoiding the Christmas baking – but be early the cookies disappear quickly & the doors open at 10:00 am. There is also the very popular silent auction table with all sorts of some of the best the island has to offer, and because the money is going to such a worthy cause, you can feel good about your Christmas shopping!

Happy Holiday Shopping!