Editorial – One Year and Counting!
Where has the year gone? This issue marks our first full year of North Saanich Currents, and we thank all of you, readers, authors, friends, critics, and neighbours for your support and advice. As corny as it sounds, we literally could not do this without you.
This issue was meant to be a little bit celebratory, but we just lost one of our founding partners, Sheila Bailin, whom we miss more than words can describe. She was incredibly dedicated to the community of North Saanich, and most importantly, to its people. We like to remember Sheila like this, so full of life, energy, opinions, and love.
We start our thanks giving edition with heartfelt thanks to our co-founder, Sheila, by commemorating her inspiring life. We will turn on comments on the article so that you can share your love for Sheila with her family and community.
We know that Sheila would have been out there urging the community to vote in the local and provincial elections. Why Vote has useful information about voting and why voting matters. So please exercise this valuable democratic right and encourage friends and neighbours to vote.
We all know someone who actively (over)uses AI and those who worry about its impact on the environment and privacy. But did you know that an ethically responsible version of AI has been developed right here in North Saanich? Read all about it in RAIIMBY – Responsible Artificial Intelligence In My Back Yard. Sticking with technology, we also bring to you the importance of Purple Air monitors in the district.
Next up, you will find information about a new annual fund for a UVic student to work with North Saanich Currrents for one term. The Sheila Bailin Community Impact Fund is open to students from all disciplines and at any level of study at UVic. In this issue, you will also find an opportunity to contribute to a fund to support the work of the Saanich Peninsula Hospital and Health Foundation, as well as to the newly registered charity – Big to the Rescue – which continues to do the amazing work of helping our feathered and furry friends.
We round off the issue with some recipes to celebrate the harvest season and a cartoon that will make you laugh, and perhaps cry a little!
Sheila wanted us to get this Fall 2026 issue of North Saanich Currents published, so here it is. Sheila – we hope that you are as proud of it as we are.
Yours truly, the NSC Team
by Meenal Shrivastava
North Saanich Currents has lost one of our founding co-editors and I have lost a dear friend who was always there for wise counsel with unreserved warmth for the past two decades.
by Jillian Buriak
The headlines regarding artificial intelligence over the past 4 years were initially exciting, but now are increasingly alarming.
by Jillian Buriak
Turn on the tap and drink from it. But what about the air we breathe?
by Meenal Shrivastava & Jillian Buriak
Sheila’s lifelong work on community issues focused on women and youth.
by Tabatha Golat
The Saanich Peninsula Hospital & Healthcare Foundation has launched a Diamond Earring Raffle, with proceeds supporting equipment needs at Saanich Peninsula Hospital.
by Jayson Biggs
Big to the Rescue has had a big few months! We’ve recently achieved Canadian registered charity status.
by Meenal Shrivastava
Fall is harvesting season in the Pacific Northwest. We are very fortunate in North Saanich to have a long growing season.
by Gerry Karagianis
So thankful to live in North Saanich. Cheers!
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