Mc Morran Park

Revitalization of a Saanich Neighbourhood - New Businesses boost Cordova Bay

SAANICH -- A seaside community in Saanich is buzzing with excitement. In the past couple of years, Cordova Bay watched its local businesses struggle during tough economic times. But with the reopening of an historic neighbourhood restaurant, and a new grocery store in the plaza, people who live in the area say they'll support local like never before.

Once the iconic McMorran's restaurant, the new Beach House is ready for business. Kate Phoenix bought the property in October 2010 and started renovations last July. Nearly a year later, the restaurant is ready to open to the public. Patrons have eagerly awaited the reopening. The Beach House is just one of the businesses breathing new life into the Cordova Bay area. After months without a community grocery store, True Value opened in the spring, encouraging neighbours to buy local goods from their local store. Neighbours say it's just what the area needed. It's a revitalization of the neighbourhood plaza, encouraging a community within a community.

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Crisis of Faith

SAANICH - Children play happily at Cordova Bay Preschool, but little do they know the future of their school is uncertain.
Cordova Bay Preschool leases space from St. David by the Sea Anglican Church. But this morning the Anglican Diocese of British Columbia, covering Vancouver Island and the Gulf Islands, announced a dramatic shift in mission, structure and culture.

Two few people in the pews has forced the disestablishment - or closure - of 19 churches including St. David by the Sea.

Finding a new place for the preschool could be as difficult as it was for this Church-in-crisis to make these recommendations. With 19 churches closed, some of the real estate can be sold for millions of dollars.

Dollars that the Diocese says can be spent creating 5 hub churches in the capital region and supporting the remaining congregations.

The Diocesan Transformation Team says the reconfiguration is necessary for the church to survive and thrive in changing and challenging times.

In all, up to 2000 parishioners will be affected by the mass-streamlining. From Crofton to Saanich,South Pender to Oak Bay, few communities will be untouched by the decision. A full list of churches slated for disestablishment is online at

What to do with Hartland Rock?

SAANICH - The capital region's environment committee is stuck between a rock and a hard place - literally.

Directors are trying to decide whether to make a million dollars from the sale of surplus rock at Hartland Landfill or honour a promise made 15 years ago.

Cordova Bay, Victoria

Aug 2007, Cam and I down on the sand bar at low tide. Tons of wild life, animal and mortal!