Since 2006, a group of residents in Central Saanich have been on a mission to create a village feel for the community of Saanichton with local residents and businesses undertaking a number of local initiatives to enhance the look and feel of the village. The most impactful project to date has been rooted in a close relationship with well-known local First Nations artist Doug LaFortune, his wife Kathy and son Bear with what has come to be known as the ‘Welcoming Totem’ project.
The Saanichton Village Association is pleased to announce the addition of the second Welcoming Totem in a series of 5 Totems planned for the roadways leading to the Saanichton Village. “We wanted residents and visitors to be more aware of their community and the core as they entered the village”, notes Jan Carroll President of the Saanichton Village Association
The first Totem in the series was erected last Spring on East Saanich Rd., north of the Wallace Drive and showcases a Heron as the focal point. The second Totem will be unveiled Saturday April 6th at 2:00 p.m. The chosen location for the second Totem will be on East Saanich Rd. a few yards south of the Veyaness – East Saanich Road intersection. “The Saanichton Village is more than just the core retail areas, and our idea was to create a sense of inclusion by placing these majestic westcoast symbols in a way that embraced more of the local area”, noted Carroll.
Each Totem in the series showcases a different symbol. “They all have their role in the First Nations culture, with each representing an important core value for our people”, notes carver Doug LaFortune, “My son Bear and I are excited to be able to work together on the Totem project and share the stories with the community”.
The Totem project has received some significant donations from the Municipality of Central Saanich, local residents and businesses with just over $12,000 being raised towards the total project goal of $18,000.00. “We are over half way there thanks to Katherine Nutt, Spelt Enterprises, Seafirst Insurance and District of Central Saanich, and we hope to have others from the local community come forward with donations to help us complete this important project”, notes Carroll.
Donations to the Welcoming Totem project can be made by contacting the SVA through our website: www.saanichtonvillage.com.
SVA Vision statement: “Envisioned by the residents of the community, the Saanichton Village Association is committed to showcasing local tourism, farm gate and retail opportunities, while enhancing the beauty of the area through the establishment of a neighbourly village where residents can walk, cycle and gather in a healthy and welcoming environment.”
SVA Contact: Jan Carroll President – 250-544-0636