ZOOM | NEW YEAR 2026

yours to keep!
the sunshine coast magazine new year 2026
issue 60 | zoomsunshinecoast.com

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inside
julie law
8
darlene caldwell music in the harbour
14
18
spa bliss
21
a taste of manila
22
ISSUE 60 . NEW YEAR 2026
viewfinder
24
diego's den
28
new year 2026 3

WISHING
EVERYONE
THE BEST OF THE
NEW YEAR
the sunshine coast magazine
issue 60 | new year 2026
PO Box 200
Garden Bay, BC VON 1S1
604.883.9279
zoomsunshinecoast.com
Editor & Graphic Designer
Contributing Writers
Copy Editor
Edmund Arceo
Natalie Findlay
Nancy Pincombe
Nancy Cuthbert
CONTEMPORARY ARTIST
GALLERY OPEN BY APPOINTMENT
Call 604.883.9472 | Text 604.989.6686 | Email info@motoko.ca
4590 Sinclair Bay Road, Garden Bay, Pender Harbour, BC
motoko.ca
thankful.
ZOOM is published locally and distributed FREE. You will find
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Authors of submitted material are solely responsible for their
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or photos submitted. Pages or photos in this magazine may
not be reproduced, stored, or transmitted in any form without
prior written permission of the publisher. ZOOM is printed in
British Columbia, using 100% recyclable paper. Submitted
materials are published at the sole discretion of the editor.
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from groups and private individuals. If you love ZOOM, please
thank our advertisers.
For advertising inquiries, please call 604.989.9277 or send an
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We at Spiderplus Graphics—designers and publishers
of ZOOM Magazine and Sunshine Coast Arts,
and providers of graphic design services to local
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supporters who make it possible for us to continue
doing what we love for our community.
SUNSHINE COAST
PEOPLE’S
CHOICE
2025
Winner!
spiderplus.com
This edition has been funded in part by the
Government of Canada
COVER IMAGE BY RICHARD LIU
4

where
reflection
and renewal
begins
SUNSHINE COAST
PEOPLE’S
CHOICE
2025
Winner!
Your Place On The Sunshine Coast
Indulge in the art of relaxation at Painted Boat Resort Spa and Marina,
an oceanfront sanctuary where nature and elegance meet. Feel at home
in our fully furnished contemporary villas. Restore your senses in our
award-winning Spa and tranquil Serenity Garden, then savour
the refined flavours of West Coast cuisine at the Lagoon Restaurant.
12849 Lagoon Road, Madeira Park, Pender Harbour, BC . 1.866.902.3955 . 604.883.2456 . paintedboat.com
new year 2026 5

notepad
Under
The
Owl's
Gaze
As the year turns and a new chapter quietly
unfolds, I think of the owl as a fitting symbol to
guide us forward. Across cultures and centuries,
owls have been revered as symbols of wisdom and
transformation – qualities that resonate deeply as a
new year begins.
Often associated with stillness and reflection, the
owl reminds us of the value of pausing before
moving ahead. Its wide and watchful eyes see clearly
in the dark, suggesting an ability to discern truth
even in uncertain or challenging times. As we reflect
on the year that has passed – its lessons, joys, and
missteps – the owl encourages us to move with care
and mindfulness rather than haste.
Owls are also powerful symbols of renewal. Creatures
of the night, they are most active when the world is
quiet, representing the unseen work of change that
happens as the world around is deep in slumber. Just
as the new year begins in the quiet of winter, renewal
often starts in moments of rest. Growth does not
always announce itself loudly.
As we step into the year ahead, may we do so under
the owl’s steady gaze – guided by wisdom, grounded
in reflection, and renewed with quiet confidence for
the journey to come. ·
PHOTOGRAPHY | RICHARD LIU
Edmund Arceo
edmund@zoomsunshinecoast.com
6

ART, CRAFTS, & GIFTS FROM AROUND HERE
One Flower One Leaf Gallery
proudly showcases over 30 local artists and
artisans. Artwork, paintings, photography, jewellery,
woodwork, pottery, Indigenous art, original design
t-shirts, books, wellness products, musical instruments,
and nautical gift items. Immerse yourself in creativity
on the waterfront in the heart of Gibsons Landing.
A great place to find art and handmade gifts crafted
by the best talent on the Sunshine Coast.
One Flower One Leaf Gallery
436 Marine Drive, Gibsons Landing . 604.886.0099
Visit our online store at onefloweroneleaf.com
Get your free copy of the
Sunshine Coast Arts Magazine
at select outlets on the
Sunshine Coast.
SUNSHINECOASTARTS.COM
Where art finds a home, inspiration follows. Heartfelt thanks to
all who support the arts. I wish you a New Year full of hope, light,
fresh discoveries, and meaningful moments.
cherylwheelerart.com
new year 2026 7

FOCUS
life
light
through
the lens of
julie law
WORDS | NANCY PINCOMBE
As is so often true, you just can't make this
stuff up. A cluster of windswept trees clinging
to rock, the moody, striated colours of a
sunset, the whorls and strips in tree bark,
a single flower. And whether the frame is
wide enough to take in surprising shapes of
stacked mounds of cloud far on the horizon,
or so narrow that we see the very tiny details
of petals, all around us nature is providing
the most delightful arrangements and
compositions. Julie Law has a keen eye for
capturing this with her camera and bringing it
to our attention.
In her words, “What gives me the most thrill is to notice
a glimpse of beauty that most people would not notice.”
Self-taught, Julie learns from doing and experimenting.
She has been taking photos since she was a child, but
the arrival of digital photography was the game changer,
giving her the ability to really take chances and grow as
an artist:
“No longer being limited by what I could afford to have
developed and printed was hugely liberating.”
Following her instincts and whims rather than rules,
Julie loves to roam with her camera. Like all of us, she
frequently encounters spectacular sunsets, but while she
is as susceptible to a showy display as anyone, Julie likes
to remind us, and herself, that beauty and harmony are
everywhere.
“Sunsets are very beautiful and I love to photograph
sunsets. But what is really exciting for me is to see beauty
that is much less obvious, beauty that is hidden within the
ordinary, everyday, or even the mundane.”
Long walks become free and meditative sojourns with
her camera. Julie seldom sets out with a subject in mind
but photographs whatever is at hand. The viewer senses
a quiet clarity, however. Some of her photos give the
impression that she is sensing a resonance in a particular
branch, a certain cactus, a pole, a statue, a single flower
. . . as if the subject itself is calling out for notice. In the
end, it's art. And like all lasting artistic creations there are
as many interpretations as there are viewers, as Julie
emphasizes:
“What’s so wonderful about photography is that the
photos speak for themselves. And one photo will become
as many as the number of people who view it. Every single
interpretation will be unique to the individual.” ·
8

the sunshine coast magazine
new year 2026 9

10
FOCUS

the sunshine coast magazine
VISIT JULIELAW.CA TO VIEW MORE OF JULIE LAW'S PHOTOGRAPHY
new year 2026 11

STAYCATION?
How about a . . .
604.841.5805 . www.moondance.travel
57O7 COWRIE STREET, SECHELT . (6O4) 885-6436
Instagram: @moorestockoutfitters
12

Presented by
THE COAST RECITAL SOCIETY
Piano Fest
A wonderful
gift idea for
your music
loving friends
Friday, Feb 27, 2026
KEVIN CHEN
The art of lost wax casting in gold and silver
Custom designs and some repairs accepted
Gem, gold, and silver recycling
By appointment only
earthlycreaturedesigns@gmail.com
www.earthlycreature.com
Saturday, Feb 28, 2026
CHARLES RICHARD-HAMELIN
Soleil
duo
Sunday, Mar 1, 2026
JANINA FIALKOWSKA
2:00 PM | Raven’s Cry Theatre, Sechelt, BC
Post-concert chats ~ 4:00 PM
Festival pass: $100; students $25
Single tickets: $35 per concert; students $10
coastrecitalsociety.ca | 604.885.0991
For tickets email: office@coastrecitalsociety.org
Beautiful Music
in Gibsons
Flemming & Sombrowski
Law Office
Stacey Buchhorn
Real Estate
FOR ANY OCCASION
Piano and vocals duo, wide appealing repertoire of love songs, jazz standards and pop.
Find Soleil Duo on Facebook or inquire: pincomben@gmail.com, 604.741.7476.
new year 2026 13

FEATURE
WORDS | NANCY PINCOMBE
14

the sunshine coast magazine
aving the right mug is absurdly important. Everyone's preference
is different. The weight, volume, thickness, colour, handle . . . it all
matters. You probably have a cupboard full of mugs, but there's
one that you reach for every time, especially for that first cup in the
morning. Darlene Caldwell, pottery artist and owner of Dancing Tree
Gallery, knows this very well:
HDARLENE
“I think my mugs are my favourite as I can do different sizes and
shapes as everyone has different preferences. I get a lot of people
saying they have their coffee in them every morning. I can also
spend time painting them and making them one of a kind.”
CALDWELL
POTTERY
When you enter Dancing Tree Gallery in Powell River you will walk into a
delightful and diverse display of local art including painting, woodwork, and
Darlene's own pottery. The bright space features countless shelves and nooks
for 3D work, and the clean white walls are perfect for showing off colourful
paintings. There is a lot to see, including crafts, greeting cards, and gift ideas,
and there is always something new.
For instance, the single-blossom vases: so many of us have flourishing flower
gardens and often there's a single bloom ready or one that gets cut too short.
Pop it into a perfect tiny vase and instantly see the dignity and perfection of
a single bloom.
Darlene's glazes and finishes are both earthy and fun. It's one of the more
exciting parts of the process, she explains, “the chemistry of glazes is
unpredictable; there are always surprises in each load as you layer one glaze
over another.”
Darlene is self-taught and has been doing pottery as a hobby for more than
30 years. She's made a business of it for the last 12. Making contemporary,
functional pieces using techniques that haven't changed much since
civilization began is something that continues to intrigue her.
“The best part is taking a mundane piece of clay and making it into something
you will use every day.” ·
OTHER ARTISTS CURRENTLY ON DISPLAY AT DANCING TREE GALLERY, 120-4801 JOYCE AVENUE
(CROSSROADS VILLAGE), POWELL RIVER, ARE: MEGAN HILDEBRAND, SAN RAUBENHIEMER, HELENA
PEDERSEN, PAM HOW, LISA HAU, AND BOB BRACKENBURY.
new year 2026 15

MUSIC
THE COAST RECITAL SOCIETY INVITES YOU
TO HEAR THREE OF THE FINEST CANADIAN
CLASSICAL MUSICIANS OF OUR TIME ON
FEBRUARY 27, 28 AND MARCH 1, 2026.
16
Sechelt is home to one of the best classical concert presenters in the
country - the Coast Recital Society. Later this winter, the CRS presents
a brand new venture called Piano Fest - an exciting opportunity to hear
three of the world’s finest pianists in a weekend festival format.
Headlining the festival is the phenomenal Calgary pianist Kevin Chen,
who recently took second prize in the Chopin International Piano
Competition in Warsaw - considered the Olympics of the music world.
Only the world’s finest musicians compete in this competition. To be
among the winners is to become an instant international musical star.
Kevin joins Charles Richard-Hamelin, a former Chopin competition winner,
whose recordings have won a slew of awards, and Janina Fialkowska, one of
the most celebrated international pianists of the past century.
All three matinee concerts, performed on the Society’s lovingly maintained
9-foot Steinway, take place at the Raven’s Cry Theatre in Sechelt. There will
also be outreach programming and post-concert chats with the artists.
“This is a dream come true for me,” says the CRS’s Artistic Director, Denise Ball.
“All three of these artists are personal favourites."
"Janina Fialkowska is a national cultural treasure who became a protege of
Arthur Rubenstein, the legendary pianist who launched her career in the mid-
70s. She plays with a lyricism that is simply exquisite.
Charles Richard-Hamelin is a true poet of the keyboard. He’s absolutely
masterful and brings rare depth and musicality to everything he plays.
And what can be said about Kevin Chen other than ‘Wow!’ He’s still a teenager,
but when I heard his performances at the recent Chopin Competition, I was
simply knocked sideways.”
Ball adds that the weekend offers audiences a rare gathering of the greats,
a chance to experience three generations of outstanding pianists in a single
weekend.
“A festival of this sort rarely happens outside the musical capitals of the world.
I’m delighted to be able to share these amazing artists with music lovers living
on the Sunshine Coast and beyond. It’s even drawing piano enthusiasts from
outside the province.”
Their programs range from Beethoven to Scriabin with a heavy emphasis on
Chopin, the composer whose music requires both a dazzling technique and
deeply lyrical musicianship.
A Piano Fest pass which includes tickets to all three concerts is available for
$100; students $25. Single tickets for individual concerts can be purchased for
$35 each; students $10. To purchase, email office@coastrecitalsociety.org. ·
VISIT COASTRECITALSOCIETY.CA FOR MORE INFORMATION.
CHARLES RICHARD-HAMELIN BY JULIEN FAUGERE
JANINA FIALKOWSKA BY A/B
KEVIN CHEN BY YOEL LEVY

SUNSHINE COAST
GRAPHIC TEES
wishing
you a new year
filled with light
WE ALSO OFFER
CUSTOM CORPORATE T-SHIRTS,
HOODIES, & CAPS
Artist’s Studio - 8289 Redrooffs Rd, Halfmoon Bay
604.328.7655 | sk@sandykayart.com | sandykayart.com
local artisan shop & gallery
Available exclusively at
One Flower One Leaf Gallery
436 Marine Drive, Gibsons Landing
604.886.0099
Shop online at onefloweroneleaf.com
est.
2007
Every piece at Fresh from the Coast is designed
and crafted on the Sunshine Coast.
5498 Trail Avenue, Sechelt, BC | 604.741.0760
new year 2026 17

MUSIC
MUSIC IN THE HARBOUR
THE PENDER HARBOUR MUSIC SOCIETY HAS
HELPED SHAPE THE MUSICAL HEARTBEAT OF
THE SUNSHINE COAST, BRINGING EXCEPTIONAL
ARTISTS TO THE STAGE AND CREATING A
WELCOMING HOME FOR LOCAL MUSICIANS.
Let there be music! And that is exactly what has been happening at
the historic performance venue of the Pender Harbour Music Society.
After a slow post-covid reawakening, audiences are coming back, and
the last four concerts have been sellouts!
In February gifted classical musicians Kai Gleusteen and Catherine
Ordronneau will present two different concerts. Mi’kmaltic Magic in
March features Mi'kmaq/Celtic fiddler and singer Morgan Toney with
fellow Cape Bretoner Keith Mullins. In April it’s harpist Janelle Nadeau.
Capping off the season in May, come and celebrate Blak, a Musical Journey
with Krystle Dos Santos and her crew. Check out PenderHarbourMusic.ca for
tickets and more.
Over the last 40 years, the Music Society has renovated, expanded, and
improved the Performance Centre. The Society presents a steady stream of
international stars of the music world, playing happily in an intimate Madeira
Park venue that seats 115. The goal is to present musical activities which
reflect the musical and cultural diversity of the Pender Harbour area.
An annual Concert Series of 12 to 14 performances features outstanding
professional live music, covering such genres as classical, jazz, folk, new
world, bluegrass, Celtic, and soul.
The Monthly Coffeehouse features local musicians in a terrific venue,
with new artists testing their performance chops and often experienced
professionals also having a fun time while jamming with and mentoring the
younger musicians. A magical experience.
Children and youth are our future audiences and members, so every year
the Music Society presents musical workshops for local schoolchildren.
This year they are combining this program with their wish to have greater
collaboration with the shishalh Nation. Both Morgan Toney and Krystal
Dos Santos have agreed to stay over for Monday Workshops, with morning
sessions at the Pender Performance Centre for local schoolchildren and
afternoon sessions at the shishalh Community Centre for shishalh children
and elementary students in shishalh/Sechelt schools.
Come, enjoy, and please consider becoming a member and joining this 140-
plus group of volunteers, members, and directors. Funding agencies love to
see healthy membership support.
Speaking of support . . . would you consider being a concert sponsor or
program donor? Any amount is a huge help, and the Music Society would
like to encourage you to visit PenderHarbourMusic.ca/donations.
Most importantly, come out and celebrate the music and community! ·
18
WORDS | SUBMITTED BY PHMS
CATCH THE PHMS CONCERT SERIES AND MONTHLY COFFEHOUSE AT 12956 MADEIRA PARK ROAD,
MADEIRA PARK. FOR MORE INFORMATION, VISIT PENDERHARBOURMUSIC.CA.

festival
2026
52 nd SUNSHINE COAST
FESTIVAL OF THE
PERFORMING ARTS
APRIL 7 to 24, 2026
HIGHLIGHTS CONCERT - MAY 9, 2026
MID-WINTER
CHAMBER MUSIC WEEKEND
February 14 & 15, 2026
Kai Gleusteen
& Catherine Ordronneau
Be part of it! Download the Festival Syllabus from our website.
Registration opens in January 2026.
coastfestival.com
@scfpacoastfestival
March 29, 2026
Morgan Toney w/ Keith Mullins
Two Decades of Blues on the Sunshine Coast!
Pender Harbour
April 19, 2026
Janelle Nadeau
Y E A R S
Don't miss our 21 st Festival
June 5-7, 2026
Join us on March 28, 2026 for our Spring festival fundraiser with
The Paperboys. Tickets will be available on our website.
phblues.ca
May 24, 2026
Krystle Dos Santos
Tickets are $30 per concert, with special pricing for the 2-day
Mid-Winter Chamber Music Weekend. Tickets are available on our website
at penderharbourmusic.ca, at the Sechelt Visitor Centre, and at Harbour
Insurance in Madeira Park. All concerts begin at 2:00 pm at the School of Music,
12956 Madeira Park Road, Madeira Park.
Follow us on @penderharbourmusic @penderharbourmusicsociety
new year 2026 19

THANK YOU
FOR
SUPPORTING
OUR
LOCAL
CREATIVE
TALENTS
AND
BUSINESS
ENTREPRENEURS
Providing the Sunshine Coast
with a broad array of reliable
hearing services since 2007
. WALK-INS WELCOME
. COMPLIMENTARY CONSULTATIONS
AND SCREENING
"I’ve been going to Hear on the Coast since Terra opened.
Terra had provided excellent care in a former facility
and I was sure she would be superb in her new venture.
I was right. Outstanding experience." - Bill Good
CLINIC LOCATIONS:
5683 Cowrie Street, Sechelt
Pender Harbour Health Centre
5066 Francis Peninsula Road
Madeira Park
Office 604.885.0155
info@hearonthecoast.ca
www.hearonthecoast.ca
Terra Dannes, RHIP
Hearing Care Professional
15 Years Experience
Longtime Sunshine Coast Resident
THINK LOCAL. SHOP LOCAL.
Authentic. Fresh. Innovative.
1-280 Gower Point Road, Gibsons
(Ground Floor of the Pink House)
604.886.2562 . sushibarnagomi.com
20

WELLNESS
the sunshine coast magazine
Winter has a way of slowing things down. The days are
shorter, the air is cooler, and everything feels a little
quieter. It’s a season that naturally invites rest and
reflection. And take better care of ourselves. As the
new year begins, this slower rhythm gives us a chance
to recharge and find our balance again.
Spending time at a spa during this time of the year can
be especially comforting. Warm spaces help relax sore
muscles, improve circulation, and ease the tension
that builds up in daily life. Just as important are the
moments of calm that allows us to truly unwind. These small pauses
aren’t a luxury; they’re an important part of feeling well.
SPA
BLISS
AT PAINTED BOAT
The start of the year often comes with plans and resolutions, but
real renewal begins by slowing down. Massage, body treatments,
and quiet time help restore energy and create a sense of grounding
that carries into the months ahead. Winter wellness is about
listening to what your body needs.
Tucked in a quiet corner of Madeira Park,The Spa at Painted Boat
offers the perfect place to do just that. Surrounded by ocean air and
natural beauty, it’s an easy escape from everyday demands.
The Spa offers a thoughtfully curated menu of treatments focused
on rejuvenation and overall wellness. Whether you choose a deeply
relaxing massage, a revitalizing body treatment, or time spent in the
Serenity Garden, each experience is intended to melt away tension
and restore energy.
As the year gets underway, making time to rest can shape how the
months ahead feel. A visit to The Spa at Painted Boat is a simple way
to start the year feeling refreshed and ready for what lies next. ·
WORDS & IMAGES | SUBMITTED BY PAINTED BOAT
THE SPA AT PAINTED BOAT IS LOCATED AT 12849 LAGOON ROAD IN MADEIRA PARK.
VISIT PAINTEDBOAT.COM FOR MORE INFORMATION AND CALL 604.883.2456 TO BOOK
A TREATMENT.
new year 2026 21

FLAVOURS
a taste of
manila
Anew and welcoming chapter has opened on the Sunshine
Coast dining scene with the arrival of DL Cuisina, a
restaurant in Sechelt serving well-loved homestyle
Filipino food. What began as a weekend-only pop-up at
the former Run with Soup location has grown into a fulltime
culinary home — one that blends familiar favourites
with heartfelt tradition.
Owned and lovingly run by Diana and Leonil, a Filipino
couple with a shared dream, DL Cuisina carries a story
shaped by distance, resilience, and home.
Years ago, Diana worked in Dubai, far from family and familiar
flavours. Like many Filipinos abroad, she found herself deeply
missing the dishes she grew up with. Rather than let homesickness
take over, she learned to cook them herself—recreating the tastes
of home as a way to stay connected to her roots.
After moving to Canada and settling on the Sunshine Coast, Diana
noticed something missing. Authentic Filipino food was hard to
find. That realization sparked an idea—one that has now become
DL Cuisina. The restaurant continues to offer the popular soups
locals already loved from Run with Soup, and has expanded the
menu to include classic Filipino dishes.
DL Cuisina has quickly become a place where Filipinos can enjoy
the comforting flavours they know so well, and where locals can
discover Filipino cuisine for the first time — rich, soulful, and deeply
satisfying. Each dish reflects the care and tradition behind Filipino
cooking, meant to be enjoyed slowly and shared generously.
A visit to DL Cuisina is more than just a meal. It’s an invitation
to experience a taste of Manila, right here in Sechelt — and a
chance to support a young entrepreneurial couple who turned
memory, culture, and courage into something meaningful for the
community.
Whether you’re reconnecting with familiar flavours or discovering
something new, DL Cuisina offers a seat at the table and a story
worth savouring. ·
FIND DL CUISINA AT 101-5688 COWRIE STREET IN SECHELT. CHECK OUT THEIR MENU
ONLINE AT DLCUISINA.COM.
WORDS & IMAGES | SUBMITTED BY DL CUISINA
22

POWELL RIVER/QATHET TO LANGDALE
SUNSHINE COAST
ART MAP
STUDIO & GALLERY
TOUR GUIDE
PICK ONE UP
Look for the flying Purple Banners
and visit the ‘arts at work’.
ART CRAWL
OCT 23-24-25, 2026
FRI-SAT-SUN . 10AM-5PM
GAMBIER ISLAND TO EARLS COVE
Join friends and take a
scenic coastal tour to
discover 185+ unique artist
studios, galleries, and
more. Enjoy events, demos,
and meet the artists.
Venues open throughout the year.
Check brochure or website for times
or ‘call ahead’ where indicated.
A TOWNSITE LANDMARK . . . REIMAGINED
Visit the renovated 1941 Powell River Stores building, now home to
many new local artisan shops with clothing, art, curiosities, hair salon,
eyebrow threading, fibre arts, knitting, bakery, green grocer, vinyl
records and used sports equipment, climbing gym, and more!
Your source for local fish & seafood on the Sunshine Coast
for more than 38 years. Happy to reserve your order, just give us a call.
We are serving fresh chowder daily.
Open 7 days a week . 10am–5pm
#103 - 5688 Cowrie Street, Sechelt . 604.885.7410
facebook.com/seafoodonthecoast
OPEN TO SERVE YOU
5831 Ash Avenue, Powell River, BC · townsitemarket.com
We’re just across from Townsite Brewing in the
Townsite District, a Canadian National Historic Site
new year 2026 23

viewfinder
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SEND YOUR TRAVEL PHOTOS VIA EMAIL TO VIEWFINDER@ZOOMSUNSHINECOAST.COM.
ENGLAND
FRANCE
NANCY MOORE, ANITA JANSEN,
BRIGIT COGROSSI, & JESSICA HUNTINGTON
ANTARCTICA
BRETT SIBORNE
GRANT & ILEANA MCBAIN AT
POOHSTICKS BRIDGE
DOMINICAN REPUBLIC
CECIL, ELLEN, HELEN, MARLENE, NOEMI, RIZA,
VIOLA, & ADJI IN PUNTA CANA
HEATHER SKYTTE
& GREG HILL
DESOLATION SOUND
MICHELLE SAARI
MOROCCO
AMANDA & TONY PULCHNY
JAPAN
24
ANNE & DAVID JEFFREY AT EMERALD LAKE
YUKON

GARDEN BAY, BC
ROMANIA
NANAIMO, BC
SHOHACHI & YUKARI
CAROLYN CLARKE & MATTHEW HOLTZ
CROATIA
GAIL DAVIES & SHAYNE DUNLOP
JOANNE MORTENSON & BOB MICHOR
TEXAS
BOSTON
LHOU & TING
ATMOSFERA
CATHERINE REYER
& WALTER ROSS
AUSTRIA
PRINCE EDWARD ISLAND
MICHELLE MACMORLAND
& HEATHER VINCE
GREECE
PETER MCGUIRE & HARRY HILL
DIANA TORRENS
new year 2026 25

FLAVOURS
beyond the holidays
WORDS & IMAGES | NATALIE FINDLAY
TSPICED GINGER CAKE
makes 2 - 8” round cakes or 18 cupcakes
he holiday season might be over, but any time is good for gathering with
friends, colleagues, and family to share in the blessings of time spent
together.
As we catch up on each other’s lives, we inevitably want something delicious
to share. This spiced ginger cake makes for a tasty, warming treat that you
can enjoy as a snack in the afternoon or as a beautiful dessert after a meal.
It’s light in texture but full of flavour from the fresh ginger and spices.
3/4 c molasses
1/2 c applesauce
1/2 c sugar
1/4 c maple syrup
1/2 c neutral oil (like avocado)
1-1/2 c all-purpose flour
1 c buckwheat flour
1 Tbl ground cinnamon
1/2 tsp ground cloves
1 tsp ground ginger
3/4 tsp allspice
8 grates nutmeg
pinch salt
1 c water
2 tsp baking soda
2-1/2 Tbl grated ginger
2 eggs, room temperature
whisked
Heat oven to 350 degrees Fahrenheit. Butter and line the bottom and sides of your
cake pan with parchment paper or your cupcake tin with liners. In a medium bowl,
mix together the molasses, applesauce, sugar, maple syrup and oil. In another
bowl, sift together all-purpose and buckwheat flours, cinnamon, cloves, ground
ginger, allspice, nutmeg and salt. In a small saucepan (or tea kettle), bring 1 cup
water to a boil. Add the hot water to a small bowl along with the baking soda. Mix
the hot water into the molasses mixture, then stir in grated ginger (a microplane
is perfect for grating the ginger). Gradually whisk the dry ingredients (flour and
spice mixture) into the wet ingredients (molasses mixture). Add the eggs, and
continue mixing until everything is thoroughly combined. Pour the batter into
prepared cake pans, and bake about 35 minutes (about 20 minutes for cupcakes),
until top of cake springs back lightly when pressed or until a toothpick inserted
into centre comes out clean. Cool cake for at least 30 minutes. Run a knife around
edge of cake to loosen it from pan. Invert the cake onto a cooling rack, and peel off
parchment paper. Let cool completely before icing.
Note: buckwheat flour adds an earthiness to the cake, if you prefer you can use
straight all-purpose flour instead.
This cake is delicious on it’s own without icing. It is lovely and warming with a mug
of coffee or tea, or even a glass of port as an after-dinner treat. While it doesn’t
need icing, this cream cheese icing takes it from afternoon delight to centre of the
table divine.
CREAM CHEESE ICING
makes 2 1/2 cups
1 pkg (225g) cream cheese, room temperature
1/2 c butter, room temperature
3 c icing sugar, sifted
1 tsp vanilla extract
11/2 Tbl lemon juice
In a medium bowl, add cream cheese and butter. Using a hand mixer, whip butter
and cream cheese until combined and smooth. Gradually add icing sugar and
whip (starting on low so as to not have icing sugar fly everywhere) until fully
incorporated and smooth. Add the vanilla extract and lemon juice and whip again
until smooth.
26

CLOSED FOR THE SEASON BUT OPENING FOR LOVE
valentine’s
dinner
TWO NIGHTS ONLY
FEBRUARY 13 & 14 . 5 PM TO 9 PM
THREE-COURSE DINNER . $78 PER PERSON
Explore BC’s
Sunshine Coast
Reservations: 604.883.3000 . paintedboat.com
SunshineCoastCanada.com
JAPANESE
KITCHEN
Plan your trip online, get in touch with us by email
at info@sunshinecoastcanada.com, or stop by one
of our local Visitor Centres:
GIBSONS VISITOR CENTRE
494 South Fletcher Road, Gibsons, BC
604.866.2374
SECHELT VISITOR CENTRE
5790 Teredo Street, Sechelt, BC
604.885.1036
PENDER HARBOUR VISITOR INFO BOOTH
Open Seasonally
12991 Madeira Park Road, Madeira Park, BC
604.200.1930
QATHET VISITOR CENTRE
4760 Joyce Avenure, Powell River, BC
604.485.4701
AUTHENTIC JAPANESE FOOD . DINE-IN & TAKE-OUT
MONTHLY SPECIALS . LICENSED PREMISES . PARTY TRAYS
Harbour Spirit Centre, 12808 Madeira Park Road, Madeira Park
www.mamaskitchen.ca | 604.883.9190
new year 2026 27

diego’sden
THIS SECTION IS DEDICATED TO THE MEMORY OF DIEGO (2002-2014) AND MIGUEL (2015-2024), ZOOM’S BELOVED
CANINE FAMILY MEMBERS. READERS SHARE PHOTOS OF THEIR OWN PETS IN WHAT HAS BECOME OUR MOST POPULAR SECTION.
PLEASE SEND YOUR FAVOURITE PET PHOTOS VIA EMAIL TO DIEGO@ZOOMSUNSHINECOAST.COM.
CEDAR
by Mary Montague
REMY
by Claire Finlayson
MOE
by ZOOM
PENNY
by Kim Durie
JASPER
by ZOOM
ROSIE
by Georgina Anderson
SCOUT
by Edmund Arceo
MISTY
by ZOOM
Your Sunshine Coast Pet Headquarters
A local family business since 1989
Committed to support our
neighbourhood
@AllforPetsSechelt
#allforpets
Better Nutrition for Healthy, Happier Pets! | 101-5641 Cowrie Street, Sechelt | 604.885.8843 | www.allforpets.ca
28

ZEUS
DUCHESS
by Sarah Lowis
MOOSE
by Janice Williams
GOLDIE
by Tina
MAX
by ZOOM
GOMEZ
by ZOOM
GINGER
by ZOOM
CASPER
by Anita Smith
MURRAY
by Susie Johnson
MAPLE
by Diaya
SMUDGE
by Brenda Fransen
Dr. Eliza McCarthy, DVM . Full Service Veterinary Care in Pender Harbour . Wellness • Dentistry • Surgery • Laboratory • X-ray
604.883.2488
Unit 101 - 12890 Madeira Park Rd, Madeira Park, BC . Regular Hours: M, T, Th, F - 9am-5pm
Fax 604.883.2489 . mpvh@dccnet.com . madeiraparkvethospital.com
new year 2026 29

Dreamland Sleep Shop can help you get a great night's sleep and
wake up with that holiday morning feeling! We offer mattresses
made with natural, healthy, and clean materials, along with
trustworthy advice from our sleep specialists. Our wide selection
of mattresses from top Canadian brands like Pure Energy,
Nature's Rest, Chattam & Wells, Spring Air, Scott Living, Restonic,
TempurPedic, and others are available in stock on the Sunshine
Coast. Additionally, we offer luxurious bedding and linens,
lifestyle bases, bedroom furniture, locally made gifts, and more.
Over 90% of our products are made in Canada.
Our commitment to genuine care and quality products has
made us your Sunshine Coast People’s Choice #1 winner
for four consecutive years.
We have BC’s best prices, guaranteed!
Gibsons Park Plaza #110, 1100 Sunshine Coast Highway
604.886.0102 | dreamlandsleepshop.com
SUNSHINE COAST
PEOPLE’S
CHOICE
2025
Winner!
LOOK FORWARD TO A PAIN-FREE YEAR!
Ortho-Bionomy ®
As the body relaxes, tension leaves and
self-correcting reflexes emerge
Many seek Ortho-Bionomy to:
Relieve headaches, back, neck & joint pain
Alleviate frozen shoulder & carpal tunnel syndrome
Promote relaxation & prevention
Wishing You
The Gift of Health
This New Year
& Always!
Suncoast Body Works
SCOTT McQUITTY, ROBP(A)
Registered Advanced Ortho-Bionomy ®
Practitioner
Call or text: 604.741.3233
www.suncoastbodyworks.ca
It is a real privilege, honour and
joy to be working with you, in
support of your health, freedom
and happiness!
Sequoia Wellness Grove
8442 Redrooffs Road
Halfmoon Bay, BC
604.885.3150
denise@deniserochon.com
www.drdeniserochon.com
Dr. Denise Rochon
N.D., F.C.A.H., C.C.H.
Naturopathic Doctor .
YOUR HEALTH IS YOUR BLISS!
30

WISHING
EVERYONE
A NEW YEAR
FILLED WITH
GOODNESS
GIBSONS
Gibsons Plaza, Upper Gibsons
604.886.3487
WILSON CREEK
Wilson Creek Plaza, Hwy 101
604.885.6331
MADEIRA PARK
12887 Madeira Park Road
604.883.9100

Photography by Julie Law - julielaw.ca
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