BEST PLACE TO TAKE A TOURIST BEST PLACE FOR AFTERNOON TEA BEST PLACE TO WALK YOUR DOG BEST PLACE TO MEET A MATE BEST FREE FUN BEST PLACE TO WORSHIP BEST MUSEUM BEST ADVENTURE TOURISM BEST PLACE TO SPOT A CELEBRITY LOCAL CELEBRITY YOU’D LIKE TO INVITE TO DINNER BEST PLACE TO SPOT A GHOST BEST URBAN HIKING TRAIL BEST LOCAL RADIO PERSONALITY BEST LOCAL TV PERSONALITY BEST SHOP FOR VITAMINS & NUTRITION BEST BOOKSTORE BEST USED BOOKSTORE BEST FLOWER SHOP BEST GARDEN SHOP BEST THRIFTY SHOP BEST CONSIGNMENT SHOP BEST NEW CAR DEALERSHIP BEST USED CAR DEALERSHIP BEST FOR MOTORCYCLES/SCOOTER BEST FOR BOAT/MARINE BEST FOR RV BEST FOR EYEWEAR BEST BICYCLE SHOP BEST FOR YOUR PETS BEST FOR APPLIANCES BEST FOR HARDWARE (INDEPENDENT) BEST FOR HARDWARE (CHAIN) BEST KITCHEN SHOP BEST SHOE STORE (INDEPENDENT) BEST FASHION BOUTIQUE BEST FARMERS MARKET BEST FOR WINDOW COVERINGS BEST FOR FLOORING BEST FOR LIGHTING BEST FURNITURE STORE (INDEPENDENT) BEST FURNITURE STORE (CHAIN) BEST MATTRESS STORE BEST PAINT STORE BEST FOR POOL/SPA BEST FOR BARBECUES BEST FOR MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS BEST FOR JEWELLERY BEST NEW RESTAURANT BEST OLD SCHOOL DINER BEST FOR A FIRST DATE BEST FOR SEAFOOD BEST FOR STEAK BEST CHINESE BEST GREEK BEST ITALIAN BEST JAPANESE BEST MEXICAN BEST VIETNAMESE BEST INDIAN BEST THAI BEST FOR BREAKFAST BEST VEGETARIAN/VEGAN BEST “ALL YOU CAN EAT” BEST BUSINESS LUNCH BEST FOR YOUR SWEET TOOTH BEST COFFEE/LATTE/CAPPUCCINO (INDEPENDENT) BEST ICE CREAM BEST WINGS BEST FISH & CHIPS BEST BURGER BEST PIZZA BEST PATIO BAR BEST SPORTS BAR BEST FOR A MARTINI BEST PUB BEST FOR SCOTCH BEST GROCERY STORE BEST BULK FOOD STORE BEST FOR MEAT BEST FOR SEAFOOD BEST FOR PRODUCE BEST ORGANIC GROCER BEST BAKERY BEST SPECIALTY DELI BEST LOCAL BREWERY/WINERY BEST WINE STORE BEST FOR MAKING YOUR OWN WINE BEST U BREW BEST HOTEL BEST BARBERSHOP BEST SPA BEST MANICURE/PEDICURE BEST HAIR SALON BEST SHOE REPAIR BEST PHARMACY BEST FOR PHOTO FINISHING BEST PLACE FOR PICTURE FRAMING BEST CUSTOM HOME BUILDER BEST CONDO DEVELOPMENT BEST RETIREMENT RESIDENCE BEST TATTOO/PIERCING PARLOUR BEST TIRE STORE BEST AUTOMOTIVE SERVICE (CHAIN) BEST AUTOMOTIVE SERVICE (INDEPENDENT) BEST PLACE TO IMPROVE YOUR SMILE BEST PUBLIC WASHROOM BEST PET CLINIC BEST WEIGHT LOSS CENTRE BEST BANK/FINANCIAL INSTITUTION BEST FOR INSURANCE BEST STORAGE BEST MOVING FAVOURITE LOCAL SPORTS TEAM BEST YOGA STUDIO BEST REC CENTRE BEST GYM/FITNESS STUDIO BEST 18-HOLE GOLF COURSE BEST GOLF

AS VOTED BY OUR READERS

BEST PLACE TO WORSHIP BEST MUSEUM BEST ADVENTURE LOCAL CELEBRITY YOU’D LIKE TO INVITE TO DINNER

BEST LOCAL RADIO PERSONALITY BEST LOCAL TV BEST BOOKSTORE BEST USED BOOKSTORE

BEST THRIFTY SHOP BEST CONSIGNMENT SHOP BEST NEW CAR BEST FOR MOTORCYCLES/SCOOTER BEST FOR BOAT/BEST BICYCLE SHOP BEST FOR YOUR PETS BEST FOR

BEST FOR HARDWARE (CHAIN) BEST KITCHEN BEST FASHION BOUTIQUE BEST FARMERS MARKET

BEST FOR LIGHTING BEST FURNITURE STORE BEST MATTRESS STORE BEST PAINT STORE

BEST FOR MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS BEST FOR JEWELLERYBEST FOR A FIRST DATE BEST FOR SEAFOOD

BEST JAPANESE BEST MEXICANBEST VEGETARIAN/VEGAN BEST “ALL YOU

BEST COFFEE/LATTE/CAPPUCCINO

CityVICTORIA NEWS

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Thank You

Victoria!Proud to be your Auto Service Specialists!

Meet The Langford Team

3993 Cedar Hill RoadNigeL Magee

Bofthe

801 Royal Oak DriveToM HuNTer

2959 Douglas StreetDaN robbiNs

ofthe

1519 Admirals RoadscoTT basTieN

Meet The cedar Hill Team

Meet The royal oak Team

Meet The Douglas street Team

Meet The View royal Team

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250.727.6561

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250.381.5055

Service Manager, Cedar Hill

Service Manager, Royal Oak

Service Manager, Douglas Street

Service Manager, View Royal

Boftheeam

CVIC

Beofthe

Westshore Town CentreNoeL o’LearyService Manager, Langford

L

250.474.2291

CVIC

Beoftheeam

Westshore Town Centre

Best of the City Summ

er 2014 • 3

661 Burnside Rd EastPh: 250-475-3800

www.blanshardstreetwinery.com

661 Burnside Rd East

Blanshard St WineryWINE MAKING

FOR WINE LOVERS

RECENTLY AWARDED BEST WINEMAKING STORE IN ALL OF CANADA

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEKSelect Member of RJ Spagnols Academy

Make any Premium Batchof Cellar Classic Wine for Only

Limit 2 per household, for new customers only. Must be 19 or older. Valid for on-site wine only. Corks, shrink caps, and labels included. Bottles and tax not included. Upgrades available. 100% Guarantee

locally owned and family operated. We will match any competitors price, coupon or discount.

Call 250 475 3800 for complete details. Expires August 31, 2014.

$99.95Reg. $195.00 Value

Makes 30 x 750ml bottlesVisit the link below for all available products:

http://www.rjscra� winemaking.com/products/brand/Cellar-Classic

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“I just wanted to write a quick note to thank you and your sta� for the excellent services you provided in regard to this recent move. Packing and unpacking were superb and your people were friendly and very accom-modating at all stages. � e time and e� ort you took with art pieces and similar objects, to ensure their safe disposition, especially pleased us. Unlike the many other moves we have endured with other ‘so-called’ big name movers, yours was hands-down the best.”

When A to B Moving owner Gerry Ganczar tells clients “You Will Be Moved By Our Service,” it’s a promise he takes seriously, and it shows.“In the moving industry, you need to have deep roots in the community, or you won’t go anywhere,” Gerry explains. “I’ve always had the philosophy that I would treat people the way I wanted to be treated – your move isn’t worth my reputation.”

Providing exceptional moving services since 1996, the local company – fully licensed and insured – o� ers both local and long-distance move services, in addition to moving box rentals and sales.In fact, as a member of Great Canadian Van Lines, A to B Moving’s connection with more than 45 moving agents across Canada and 350 moving agents across the US allows them to provide moving services across Vancouver Island, Canada, the United States and overseas.Key to their success, including their recent Best of the City nomination as one of the top movers in Greater Victoria, has been their professional, expe-rienced long-term sta� . “� ey honestly do care,” Gerry notes.A member of the Canadian Association of Movers, BBB-accredited with an A+ rating and a community partner of the Better Business Bureau of Van-couver Island’s Torch Awards, A to B Moving’s commitment

to quality customer service has earned the company numerous awards. In addition to being honoured multiple times with Great Canadian Van Lines’ Outstanding Agent Award and Most Valuable Agent Award, most recently long-time sta� member Bill Wilson earned the 2013 Driver of the Year Award. It’s telling that more than half of A to B Moving’s business comes from word-of-mouth advertising – no surprise given they are described by clients as “incredibly friendly, helpfuland very careful,” and “themost professional moverswe have ever had.” As one client noted in nominat-ing Gerry and A to B Moving for a recent service award: “He deserves our appreciation for his high standard ofperformance excellence, his rarely seen sense of integrity, consumer-oriented values,his honest ethics, and his kind, comforting manner.”To request information or a

Across town or coast to coast, let A to B move you BEST of the CITY FINALIST BUSINESS PROFILE: A to B Moving

ADVERTISING FEATURE

878 View� eld Road,Victoria, BC V9A 4V1Tel: 250-216-0276Fx: 250-414-0178TF: 1-855-899-6683 (move)

www.atobmoving.com

2014

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20th

CityVICTORIA NEWS

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quote for your coming move, call A to B Moving at 250-216-0276or visit www.atobmoving.com for more details.

Just like Bob and Norma’s own family, Saunders Subaru will be there for each generation of your family.

Whether young, young at heart, or in between, Subaru o� ers a full model line up to meet every age and driving experience.

With the all new designed Sporty WRX and BRZ line up, Subaru gives any driver an exhilarating experience and the new look will make everyone turn theirs head at a bus stop.

With each changing season or growing family, Saunders Subaru will take the time to match you with a model that suits your needs in the city, at work, the outdoors, skiing, kayaking or just a combination of them all.

With Subaru’s Symmetrical all wheel drive system and being a “Top Safety Pick” by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety, across the entire product line, it is reassuring to know your family will be safe.

Drop in to see and experience the new generation of Subaru. We have the largest stock of new and used Subaru’s on the island, “the co� ee’s always on, your pet is welcome and you’ll enjoy a free car wash for the life of your vehicle!”

Stop in at Saunders Subaru and feel the excitement again. Even if you aren’t buying a Red Sports Car.

L-R: Luke, Edie, Ruth, Dave, Meagan, Madison, Bob and Norma

Our Family is here for Your Family

250-474-2211www.saunders.subarudealer.ca

SAUNDERS SUBARU1784 Island Highway, Colwood

Best of the City Summ

er 2014 • 5

A few words from our editor: KEVIN LAIRD

It’s all about the spirit.Not only does Best of the City

show off Greater Victoria’s best, but it showcases our region’s community spirit.

With that thought in mind, Black Press editors assigned

reporters the task of exploring the region’s community spirit and what makes it tick.

They found people like Brad Skerrett and Roy Brooke, who moved here about two years ago, and have already fallen in

love with the city.“Victoria is a strong and vibrant

community, one that I feel very connected to,” says Brooke.

“We have moved all over the world and it is really nice to now call this tightly knit community home.”

It’s a sentiment echoed by Skerrett.“The people are so friendly and really take

advantage of our gifted locale in the world.”We found some great kids, who have

already discovered that you must give back to a community what you take out.

“If nobody had community spirit ... nothing would get done. It would be kind of sad,” says Peyton Gust, winner of the United

Way’s Youth Now Award for an individual volunteer aged 11 to 14.

Members of the Royal Canadian Navy based at CFB Esquimalt have a reputation for their spirit.

A person need not go far to � nd a sailor engaged in volunteer activities outside the realm of the Canadian Armed Forces, whether it’s coaching a community team, serving as a volunteer � re� ghter or being active on their strata council or municipal committee.

We talked to many business owners about what they’re doing to improve the community which we call home.

They support everything from fundraisers for charities to sponsoring youth sports teams.

But we’ve left the real de� nition of community spirit to you, our readers, who worked diligently to come up with the Best of the City survey results. Many of you pored over the survey, identifying some of the very best things that Victoria and the Capital Region have to offer. The results of that survey can be found on pages 23 to 30.

We hope you enjoy this 20th edition of Best of the City, as much as we enjoyed compiling it and putting it together for you.

Happy reading.

That’s the spirit!GREATER VICTORIA HAS SENSE OF COMMUNITY THAT CAN’T BE BEAT

Best of the City

Winners in the 20th annual Victoria News Best of the City supplement were chosen by Capital Region readers over the course of one month. Their votes were then tabulated by our promotions department and ranked in order to determine first, second and third place.Black Press-Vancouver Island has sole copyright over any written material or images in this publication.In the event of an error occurring in any advertisement, the liability of Black Press shall not exceed the charge of space actually occupied by the item in question.

How to contact us:Black Press818 Broughton St.Victoria, B.C.V8W 1E4Phone: 250-381-3484Email:editor@vicnews.comWeb: vicnews.com

Editorial DirectorKevin Laird

Production ManagerJanice Marshall

Group PublisherPenny Sakamoto

Director of SalesOliver Sommer

Circulation DirectorBruce Hogarth

A person need not go far to � nd a sailor

They support everything from fundraisers

community spirit to you, our readers, who worked diligently to come up with the Best

Capital Region have to offer. The results of that survey can be found on pages 23 to 30.

compiling it and putting it together for you.

They support everything from fundraisers

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THE SHELBOURNE PLAZAShelbourne at Cedar Hill X Road

Cards & Gifts Sports & BikesGrocery & Bakery

Lizzy Lee & MeFairway Market Cards & Gifts Sports & Bikes

Grocery & Bakery City Nails Cards & Gifts Sports & BikesGrocery & Bakery Oregano’s Pizza

and BistroCards & Gifts Sports & BikesGrocery & Bakery Wild Birds

UnlimitedCobs Bakery M&M Meat Shops

HeartPharmacy

Cards & Gifts Sports & BikesGrocery & Bakery

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TD CanadaTrust

A&WRestaurant Cards & Gifts Sports & Bikes

Grocery & BakeryBooster JuiceCards & Gifts Sports & Bikes

Grocery & BakeryMac’s Cycle

Centre Cards & Gifts Sports & BikesGrocery & Bakery

Little Thai PlaceCards & Gifts Sports & Bikes

Grocery & Bakery Merit TravelCards & Gifts Sports & BikesGrocery & Bakery Peninsula Runners Cards & Gifts Sports & Bikes

Grocery & Bakery Squeaky’sLaundromatStarbucksScotiabank

Liquor Distribution Br.Cards & Gifts Sports & Bikes

Grocery & BakeryInk & Toner Medic

“COME VISIT US AT SHELBOURNE PLAZA. AFTER ALL, WE’RE FRIENDS AND NEIGHBOURS!”

deep in the of the Shelbourne Valley

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Crowds on both water and land line up for the Victoria Symphony Splash. Thousands gather in the Inner Harbour for the musical extravaganza.LANGFORD I 850 Langford Parkway, Victoria, BC I 250 478-6680

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2014

YEAR

20th

CityVICTORIA NEWS

Bestofthe

Voted

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My Victoria

Brad Skerrett, General manager, Bard & Banker

1. Length of residency in Greater Victoria: Two years

2. Hometown:  Originally Burlington Ont., but most of my adult years in Whistler (2002-2012).

3. Favourite restaurant: Too many that are perfect for different occasions to pick just one. My tops would include Spinnakers, Tapa Bar, Fiamo and, of course, the Bard & Banker. 

4. Perfect day in Victoria: Coffee and a walk along the Gorge with my family; Sarah (wife) and Grace (one month old daughter), and our trusty dog Rudy, followed by a mountain bike rip at Mount Work.  Finished with a barbecue and a few local brews. Early to bed.

5. Best place to watch sun-set/sunrise: The top of Mount Doug (Pkols), I actually enjoyed the sunrise here a few times lately since our new daughter likes to get us up really early.

6. I’m lucky to live here be-cause: The people are so friendly and really take advantage of our gifted locale in the world. There is a vibrant restaurant scene, which is what I love.   And the opportunity to get outside; into a forest or onto the coast in a matter of minutes.

We know it’s great here – these Victorians tell us why

roy Brooke, Sustainability consultant

1. Length of residency in Greater Victoria: Two-and-a-half years

2. Hometown: Victoria (South Jubilee) 

3. Favourite restaurant: There are so many places to choose from!  Mutsuki-An in Cadboro Bay is great and so is Ca Va in Fernwood. Above all, though, we find any excuse we can to go to Nourish Garden Bistro at the Pacific Horticulture Centre … the setting and food are both terrific.

4. Perfect day in Victoria: Perfect days here usually start with coffee at Discovery Coffee (aka “Disco”) in Oak Bay and then invari-ably involve something outdoors such as a family trip for brunch at the Horticulture Centre followed by a hike somewhere, a long bike ride around Oak Bay and along the coast, or just exploring tidal pools at Willows or McNeil Beach with our three-year old son.

6. I’m lucky to live here because: Above all, Victoria is a strong and vibrant community, one that I feel very connected to. We have moved all over the world and it

is really nice to now call this tightly knit community home. Every day I bump into people I know and I just love that Victoria is compact enough to allow this without ever feeling claustrophobic. I also love the access to nature and how great this makes the city for raising our child. Also, amazing beaches are just a short walk away and we rarely need to go

Victoria is a strong and vibrant

community, one that I feel very connected to.

>>anywhere by car. 

7. Favourite activity on a casual Saturday (hike, cycling, coffee shop, etc): Casual Sat-urdays usually start with a visit to Discovery Coffee or Demitasse, and then involve bicycles, family, friends, playdates with children and beaches.

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Best Garden Shop!

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250-597-2526

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK - 8:00 AM - 6:00 PM

Marigold Nurseries

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Greater Victoria’s top 10

Behind the scenes

The Capital Region is an outdoor lover’s paradise, especially in summer when the days are long and even the rain takes a vacation. Check out some of the region’s lesser outdoor getaways to escape the sun-loving crowds.

1. Moss Rock Park (Victoria). Nestled between residential properties, this rocky public park overlooks picturesque Fair� eld in all its

undisturbed post-war glory. The backdrop of the Olympic mountains across the Strait of Juan de Fuca makes for an epic picnic or afternoon reading spot.

TO GET THERE: Head to Masters Road off Fair� eld Road and follow the signs. Parking is tight so best to leave the car nearby and make the � ve-minute hike by foot.

2. Bear Hill Regional Park (Saanich).The summit of Bear Hill offers panoramic views of Mount Baker, the nearby Gulf

Islands and the San Juan Islands. The Garry oak tree microclimate offers shade for native plants like camas, sea blush and chocolate lilies. Much more isolated than a jaunt up Pkols (Mount Doug).

3. Rockcrest Park (Esquimalt). This one hectare park is the smallest natural area in Esquimalt. Wild� owers such as camas and shooting star

appear each spring nestled among Douglas � r trees and in a small Garry oak meadow. The panoramic views offer a reason to stay for the afternoon.

TO GET THERE: Rockcrest is accessible by foot from Rockcrest Place or Highrock Avenue.

Greater Victoria’s top 10

Hidden Gems

8. Francis/King Regional Park (Saanich). Stroll

up to 11 kilometres under ancient Douglas � rs as you make your way to the beautiful cedar boardwalk along Elsie King trail. This self-guided interpretive trail with frequent rest areas is fully accessible for people with limited mobility as well.

4. Mystic Vale (Saanich). This 11-acre bog and coniferous woodland on the University of Victoria campus is frozen in time. The Coast

Salish peoples used the fertile area for harvesting plants, hunting and � shing for thousands of years.

TO GET THERE: Enter off Cedar Hill Cross Road near the southeast UVic entrance.

5. Entrance Park (Oak Bay Avenue and Foul Bay Road). This tiny parkette offers surprising reprieve from the busy

nearby traf� c. Take a few minutes to smell the roses from a hidden bench en route to Oak Bay’s many boutique storefront shops.

6.Queen Alexandra Cove (Saanich). Another hidden

gem behind Queen Alexandra Children’s Hospital, this untouched paradise would have you believing you’re on Denman Island, not minutes from downtown. It’s a perfect summer spot to avoid the busy beach crowds at Thetis Lake or Willows Beach.

9. Hollydene Beach (Saanich). This hidden beach has possibly the softest sand in the Capital Region, and it’s only

a � ve-minute walk from Gordon Head Road. You don’t � nd more clear sea water in this idyllic setting. Bring some snacks and drinking water, as there’s not much else around.

7.Galloping Goose Regional Trail and E&N Rail

Trail (Victoria, Saanich, Westshore). Not so hidden perhaps, but there are dozens of side trips available along this well-used cycling path. So dust off or rent a bike and start exploring this incredible region.

10.Cole Island (off Esquimalt Harbour). This small island is viewable from Parson’s Bridge in

View Royal and accessible only by boat. The former Royal Navy munitions depot used to house 17 structures as old as 1860, but the buildings have been beaten by the West Coast winters. The ghost island makes for a perfect sea kayak adventure.

EXPECT THE UNEXPECTED FROMwww.grahamkiavictoria.com 250-360-11112014 K900 msrp $49,995 less $1500 factory discount. 2014 Cadenza msrp $37,895 less $4800 factory discount, plus $1485 freight & pre-delivery inspection tax & license extra. D10696

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They say tradition & heritage are what make a luxury sedan, but is that truly the case? Remove the wool that has been pulled over your eyes and discover a world of luxury that is very real. Introducing the all-new face of luxury, the K900, our � rst rear-wheel-drive luxury sedan. One that includes meticulously crafted exteriors that are impossible to ignore. And spacious, world-class interiors that are exceptional at every turn. With available features like wood trim accents and buttery-soft premium nappa leather. It’s everything you’d expect in a premium offering and more. And you can have it all in two luxury vehicles from Kia. So take another look and challenge the luxury you know. The alll-new K900 and the Kia Cadenza, Road & Travel Magazine’s 2014 International Car of the Year. For more information, visit LuxuryLiberated.ca2014 International Car of the Year. For more information, visit LuxuryLiberated.caLuxuryLiberated.ca

Breathing new life into luxury. Starting from $48,495

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Thank you Victoria for making us number 1 BEST of the CITY FINALIST BUSINESS PROFILE: Sizzling Tandoor

ADVERTISING FEATURE

DOWNTOWN • 637 Johnson Street • 250-388-5450upTOWN • 123–3600 uptown Boulevard • 778-265-7775 www.sizzlingtandoor.ca FREE 1 HOuR pARKING HHHHH

Best Indian Food

Sizzling Tandoor owners Gurinder and Narpinder Bawa welcome guests to both locations.

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Gurinder and Narpinder Bawa were honoured to be named “Best of the City” for Indian food again.

We would like to thank the patrons of Victoria, locals and tourists. Your vote helped us win first place, three years in a row.,

Together, with qualified cooks and wait staff, the Bawas have capitalized on Narpinder’s passion for cooking to create a pair of restaurants that have created quite a local following in just four short years.

Serving fragrant and flavourful North Indian cuisine, Sizzling Tandoor has proven popular with the lunch crowd who appreciate the fresh, delicious ingredients crafted into their favourite Indian dishes. Daytime diners can choose from the regular menu or the hearty, quick and affordable Indian buffet, featuring such favourites as Bhatura platters, butter chicken, beef curry, dal

makhani, pakoras, rice, naan bread and salad.

While both the menu and buffet are popular choices at lunch, guests are also welcome to order food to take out to enjoy outside or back at the office.

In the evening, the Sizzling Tandoor’s friendly, efficient staff welcome an appreciative dinner clientele who enjoy a more intimate atmosphere and a full menu, including Narpinder’s celebrated butter chicken poutine. “People say it’s the best in town,” Gurinder notes.

Other customer favourites include the filled naan, appetizers like samosas, mussels and pakoras and a delicious array of entrees such as Chicken Tikka, Tandoori Fish, Lamb Kebab and Tandoori Prawns. For those looking for something a little different, sample something new, like chicken strips and Marsala Fries or Butter Chicken Poutine.

An excellent choice for those watching the gluten in their diet, more than 90 per cent of the menu items are gluten-free for celiacs,

Gurinder notes, pointing as well to their numerous vegan and vegetarian selections prepared completely free of contact with meat, including utensils. “Our customers can have confidence when they dine with us,” Gurinder says.

Those new to Indian cuisine might enjoy the mildly flavoured butter chicken or the various Tandoori dishes, cooked in a traditional clay Tandoor oven, as the spice level can be tailored to the individual. Those preferring something a little spicier might enjoy a Vindaloo, or for something completely different, a mango coconut curry. Accompanied with light and fluffy Basmati rice. Try delicious naan bread in a variety of flavours – try a flavourful garlic naan or a rosemary naan for a yummy change – and it’s no wonder why Victorians are once again honouring Sizzling Tandoor as one of the Best in the City.

We are impressing customers from both locations with incredible North Indian cuisine.

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Greater Victoria’s top 10

Behind the scenes

The Capital Region is an outdoor lover’s paradise, especially in summer when the days are long and even the rain takes a vacation. Check out some of the region’s lesser outdoor getaways to escape the sun-loving crowds.

1. Moss Rock Park (Victoria). Nestled between residential properties, this rocky public park overlooks picturesque Fair� eld in all its

undisturbed post-war glory. The backdrop of the Olympic mountains across the Strait of Juan de Fuca makes for an epic picnic or afternoon reading spot.

TO GET THERE: Head to Masters Road off Fair� eld Road and follow the signs. Parking is tight so best to leave the car nearby and make the � ve-minute hike by foot.

2. Bear Hill Regional Park (Saanich).The summit of Bear Hill offers panoramic views of Mount Baker, the nearby Gulf

Islands and the San Juan Islands. The Garry oak tree microclimate offers shade for native plants like camas, sea blush and chocolate lilies. Much more isolated than a jaunt up Pkols (Mount Doug).

3. Rockcrest Park (Esquimalt). This one hectare park is the smallest natural area in Esquimalt. Wild� owers such as camas and shooting star

appear each spring nestled among Douglas � r trees and in a small Garry oak meadow. The panoramic views offer a reason to stay for the afternoon.

TO GET THERE: Rockcrest is accessible by foot from Rockcrest Place or Highrock Avenue.

Greater Victoria’s top 10

Hidden Gems

8. Francis/King Regional Park (Saanich). Stroll

up to 11 kilometres under ancient Douglas � rs as you make your way to the beautiful cedar boardwalk along Elsie King trail. This self-guided interpretive trail with frequent rest areas is fully accessible for people with limited mobility as well.

4. Mystic Vale (Saanich). This 11-acre bog and coniferous woodland on the University of Victoria campus is frozen in time. The Coast

Salish peoples used the fertile area for harvesting plants, hunting and � shing for thousands of years.

TO GET THERE: Enter off Cedar Hill Cross Road near the southeast UVic entrance.

5. Entrance Park (Oak Bay Avenue and Foul Bay Road). This tiny parkette offers surprising reprieve from the busy

nearby traf� c. Take a few minutes to smell the roses from a hidden bench en route to Oak Bay’s many boutique storefront shops.

6.Queen Alexandra Cove (Saanich). Another hidden

gem behind Queen Alexandra Children’s Hospital, this untouched paradise would have you believing you’re on Denman Island, not minutes from downtown. It’s a perfect summer spot to avoid the busy beach crowds at Thetis Lake or Willows Beach.

9. Hollydene Beach (Saanich). This hidden beach has possibly the softest sand in the Capital Region, and it’s only

a � ve-minute walk from Gordon Head Road. You don’t � nd more clear sea water in this idyllic setting. Bring some snacks and drinking water, as there’s not much else around.

7.Galloping Goose Regional Trail and E&N Rail

Trail (Victoria, Saanich, Westshore). Not so hidden perhaps, but there are dozens of side trips available along this well-used cycling path. So dust off or rent a bike and start exploring this incredible region.

10.Cole Island (off Esquimalt Harbour). This small island is viewable from Parson’s Bridge in

View Royal and accessible only by boat. The former Royal Navy munitions depot used to house 17 structures as old as 1860, but the buildings have been beaten by the West Coast winters. The ghost island makes for a perfect sea kayak adventure.

10 •

Best

of th

e City

Sum

mer

2014

Giving back with Gust-oIt takes a community to

raise a child, but sometimes it’s the kids who put the spirit back into community.

“If nobody had community spirit … nothing would get done. It would be kind of sad,” says Peyton Gust, winner of the United Way’s Youth Now Award for an individual volunteer aged 11 to 14.

The 11-year-old was

nominated by Boys and Girls Club Services of Greater Victoria leader Krista Hagstrom, where she volunteers.

But the United Way award isn’t the first thing the Millstream elementary student recalls as a fond memento of her work in building community.

Her first is a Christmas card made for her by a

group of young moms. Baby footprints make up a tree on the front, with little stickers as decorations. Inside they thank Gust for her work on a diaper drive last winter.

“I still have it. It’s so sweet,” she says with smile.

Gust worked with gusto to collect and sanitize baby toys to go along with the diapers, and made an event of it. She MC’d a Boys and Girls fundraising talent show, reads to the little ones and makes food for the breakfast program, filling little bellies as they go off to learn.

Gust helps at lunch and recess as well, and holds down the fort in the office sometimes. Just prior to the end of the school year, she introduced incoming

Kindergartners with a school tour.

“I think the world needs some spirit, something good,” Gust says. “I try to represent the Boys and Girls (Club) and teach the little kids what they should be (like) when they get older.”

Willows elementary student Lily Cave builds community spirit with her now famous voice. She enters Grade 3 this fall as a pro at leading sport-enthusiasts in singing O Canada and The Star-Spangled Banner in venues

such as Save-On-Foods Memorial Centre, Westhills Stadium and Royal Athletic Park, not to mention a hop across the water for a Rogers Arena gig for the Vancouver Canucks. She represented her community well when she sang both the Canadian and U.S. national anthems before a November game in front of more than 18,000 hockey fans.

She has also sung for multi-award winning music producer David Foster, after raising $1,000 for the David Foster Foundation.

Great kids

I think the world needs some spirit,

something good.

>>Peyton Gust, 11, won the United Way’s Youth Now Award for her exceptional volunteer work.

Singer Lily Cave is only in Grade 3, but she’s already making a name for herself having sung at various sporting events.

ofthe

Beseset P

lacF U

As a busy mom and running my own business as a counsellor at “Insight to Action Counselling Services”, I need to have a reliable vehicle and also access to a loaner vehicle when work is being done to my car.

My family has purchased two vehicles from Galaxy Motors. One for myself and one for my husband after he was in an accident that wrote off his previous car.

I have found the staff to be professional and friendly and also ef� cient. They have a great service center that provides thorough explanations of the work being done and future work that may be necessary. The staff is not pushy on the sales side OR in the service department.

I also appreciated that there was an insurance person there when we purchased so that we didn’t have to run around town.”

‘‘

BYEAH BABY!YEAH BABY!YEAH BABY!YEAH BABY!YEAH BABY!YEAH BABY!YEAH BABY!YEAH BABY!YEAH BABY!YEAH BABY!YEAH BABY!YEAH BABY!YEAH BABY!YEAH BABY!YEAH BABY!YEAH BABY!YEAH BABY!YEAH BABY!YEAH BABY!YEAH BABY!YEAH BABY!YEAH BABY!YEAH BABY!YEAH BABY!YEAH BABY!YEAH BABY!YEAH BABY!YEAH BABY!YEAH BABY!YEAH BABY!YEAH BABY!YEAH BABY!YEAH BABY!YEAH BABY!YEAH BABY!YEAH BABY!YEAH BABY!YEAH BABY!YEAH BABY!YEAH BABY!YEAH BABY!YEAH BABY!YEAH BABY!YEAH BABY!YEAH BABY!YEAH BABY!YEAH BABY!YEAH BABY!YEAH BABY!YEAH BABY!YEAH BABY!

Julie M. SweeneyProfessional Counsellor | Insight Into Action Counselling Services

CityyytytVICTVICTVIC ORTORT IA NEWSNEWSNEW

Bestttofthe

VotedVotedVoted

1

ace For Usedede VeVeV hiclesese #1 AGAIN!#1 AGAIN!#1 AGAIN!#1 AGAIN!#1 AGAIN!#1 AGAIN!#1 AGAIN!#1 AGAIN!#1 AGAIN!#1 AGAIN!#1 AGAIN!#1 AGAIN!#1 AGAIN!#1 AGAIN!#1 AGAIN!#1 AGAIN!#1 AGAIN!#1 AGAIN!#1 AGAIN!#1 AGAIN!#1 AGAIN!#1 AGAIN!#1 AGAIN!#1 AGAIN!#1 AGAIN!#1 AGAIN!#1 AGAIN!#1 AGAIN!#1 AGAIN!#1 AGAIN!#1 AGAIN!#1 AGAIN!#1 AGAIN!#1 AGAIN!#1 AGAIN!#1 AGAIN!#1 AGAIN!#1 AGAIN!#1 AGAIN!#1 AGAIN!#1 AGAIN!#1 AGAIN!#1 AGAIN!#1 AGAIN!#1 AGAIN!#1 AGAIN!#1 AGAIN!#1 AGAIN!#1 AGAIN!#1 AGAIN!#1 AGAIN!#1 AGAIN!#1 AGAIN!#1 AGAIN!#1 AGAIN!#1 AGAIN!#1 AGAIN!#1 AGAIN!#1 AGAIN!#1 AGAIN!#1 AGAIN!#1 AGAIN!#1 AGAIN!#1 AGAIN!#1 AGAIN!#1 AGAIN!#1 AGAIN!#1 AGAIN!#1 AGAIN!#1 AGAIN!#1 AGAIN!#1 AGAIN!

Jody EppDirector of Business Development

Titus Infrastructure Services

250-478-7603

I was happy to deal with Galaxy Motors because they are a locally owned and operated company as well as an active participant

in the local community. They had a great selection of vehicles and were able to professionally and courteously manage my needs. From the sales staff and � nancing team to the service department, Galaxy Motors met all my expectations. My deal had a number of complexities and I was very impressed by their ability to make the deal come together without a hitch. I would certainly recommend Galaxy Motors to any of my friends and family.

‘‘COLWOOD 250-478-7603 • 1772 Island Hwy. COLWOOD 250-478-7603 • 1772 Island Hwy.

www.galaxymotors.netOPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK • SAVE TIME, APPLY ONLINE

2014

YEAR

20thRead what customers

are saying about Galaxy Motors

FINAL PRODUCTION

LASER OUTPUT @ None

Promo 840-00008 7/3/2013 Wave2CDARxROPs—#37-Chandra Market: Victoria NewsTRIM: CD: CB: CW: SEP:LIVE: CM: BCM: CE: Printer: BLEED: AD: OPS: CP: CREATED AT: AG: IHP: PB: COLOR:

100%

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4C

N/A N/A N/A Periscope N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A N/A Kathleen Murphy

PRO

Apple Macintosh, Application/Version: InDesign 8.0.1Layout CP: N/A Date: N/AMech CP: Kim Coombe Date: 05/06/2013Mech Release CP: Kim Coombe Date: 03/28/2013Final Board CP: Kim Coombe Date: 04/15/2013Final Release CP: Kim Coombe Date: 04/18/2013

Cyan, Magenta, Yellow, Black

Welcome to the only Pharmacy with a Target attached. Your pharmacist offers friendly advice and personalized solutions to give you and your family peace of mind so you can take care of your prescriptions, health needs – and your shopping list

Hi, my name is Chandra Erant. I’m pleased to be the new pharmacist and owner of your local Target Pharmacy.

My clinical interests are diabetes, cardiovascular health and respiratory health. I speak English, Hindi, Telugu, Kannada and Tamil. When I am not at work, I enjoy travelling and cooking.

Tillicum Centre3170 Tillicum RoadVictoria, BC, V9A 6T2P: 250-220-0361 F: 250-386-7237

© 2013 Target Brands, Inc. Target and the Bullseye Design are registered trademarks of Target Brands, Inc.

S:3.8125”

S:7

.5”

T:4.3125”

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”

B:4.3125”

B:8

”

870-00046_CDAROPWave2_Chandra-4.3125x8 1 6/25/13 10:47 AM

• Open 9-9 Mon.-Fri. and 9-6 Sat. & Sun• Free prescription deliveries

With its convenient location in the heart of the city, a commitment to quality products and customer service, Cook Street Castle Build-ing Centre has earned a place in the collective hearts of residents and do-it-yourselfers alike.

Honoured as one of the Best of the City, staff and ownership are thrilled to be recognized for the hard work undertaken to create a building supply store they are proud of. “Thank you Victoria for your support over the years and for rewarding us with this distinguished achievement”.

While many locals who have visited the Cook Street store still think of it as Do-it Centre, the store rebranded as Cook Street Castle in 2009. What didn’t change was the ownership which has remained the same for over 25 years. “For those

who don’t know about Castle” says co-owner Vicki Hagel, “it is a Canadian not for profit buying group, supporting independents from coast to coast, that we have been members of since 1993. As a co-operative we pool our buying power to achieve better costing that allows us competitive pricing in the market place. While the group negotiates with vendors across the country each member has the free-dom to support local supply chan-nels when that serves them better. Cook Street Castle has many rela-tionships with Island vendors such as Aquila Cedar, Cinnabar farms, South Island Concrete and Coast Distributors. We are proud of our partnership with local companies.”

Located in the heart of Victoria, this unique location is a full city block long, and features a drive-thru covered lumberyard and park-ing facility. Inside the store there are multiple mezzanines that stock

housewares, furniture and garden supplies. The main level has fully stocked plumbing, electrical, hard-ware and paint departments. Many brand-name items such as Para paint, Sikkens stain, Moen, Irwin and Richelieu make up the prod-uct selection needed for home im-provement and renovation projects.

It is the store’s staff however that Frank and Vicki Hagel are most proud of. Their longtime manager Brent Cowling, together with Keijo and Maria, lead a group of people dedicated to sharing their knowledge and experience with Victoria. Recently added to the mix is Brain Kochems, a paint product expert the Hagels refer to as an “Icon” in this town. “The location is lively and fun to shop in” Vicki says, “if you haven’t been in, we hope you come and take advantage of what we have to offer. And for those who have supported us and voted for us, we truly THANK YOU Victoria!”

Competitive prices and great selection equal success for Cook Street Castle

BEST of the CITY FINALIST BUSINESS PROFILE: Castle Building CentresADVERTISING FEATURE

2014

YEAR

20th

CityVICTORIA NEWS

Bestofthe

Voted 3

Best Hardware/Independent

1720 Cook Street, Victoria250.384.8181

Hours: Mon-Fri 8 am - 5:30 pm, Sat 9 am - 5:30 pm, Sun 10 am - 5 pm

®

Above: back row left to right Brian Kochems, Maria Lee, Keijo Rannankari, Frank Hagel, Vicki Hagel and Brent Cowling. Front row left to right Jay Davis, Michele Cryderman, Ashely Erskine, Jordan Soles and Colby Venn.

250-383-8332 • 1127 Haultain St.

www.haultainfi shandchips.comwww.haultainfi shandchips.comwww.haultainfi shandchips.comwww.haultainfi shandchips.com

Eat In– or –

Take Out

Serving Victoria and Friends the Bounty of the Sea Since 1924

Giving back with Gust-oIt takes a community to

raise a child, but sometimes it’s the kids who put the spirit back into community.

“If nobody had community spirit … nothing would get done. It would be kind of sad,” says Peyton Gust, winner of the United Way’s Youth Now Award for an individual volunteer aged 11 to 14.

The 11-year-old was

nominated by Boys and Girls Club Services of Greater Victoria leader Krista Hagstrom, where she volunteers.

But the United Way award isn’t the first thing the Millstream elementary student recalls as a fond memento of her work in building community.

Her first is a Christmas card made for her by a

group of young moms. Baby footprints make up a tree on the front, with little stickers as decorations. Inside they thank Gust for her work on a diaper drive last winter.

“I still have it. It’s so sweet,” she says with smile.

Gust worked with gusto to collect and sanitize baby toys to go along with the diapers, and made an event of it. She MC’d a Boys and Girls fundraising talent show, reads to the little ones and makes food for the breakfast program, filling little bellies as they go off to learn.

Gust helps at lunch and recess as well, and holds down the fort in the office sometimes. Just prior to the end of the school year, she introduced incoming

Kindergartners with a school tour.

“I think the world needs some spirit, something good,” Gust says. “I try to represent the Boys and Girls (Club) and teach the little kids what they should be (like) when they get older.”

Willows elementary student Lily Cave builds community spirit with her now famous voice. She enters Grade 3 this fall as a pro at leading sport-enthusiasts in singing O Canada and The Star-Spangled Banner in venues

such as Save-On-Foods Memorial Centre, Westhills Stadium and Royal Athletic Park, not to mention a hop across the water for a Rogers Arena gig for the Vancouver Canucks. She represented her community well when she sang both the Canadian and U.S. national anthems before a November game in front of more than 18,000 hockey fans.

She has also sung for multi-award winning music producer David Foster, after raising $1,000 for the David Foster Foundation.

Great kids

I think the world needs some spirit,

something good.

>>Peyton Gust, 11, won the United Way’s Youth Now Award for her exceptional volunteer work.

Singer Lily Cave is only in Grade 3, but she’s already making a name for herself having sung at various sporting events.

ofthe

Beseset P

lacF U

As a busy mom and running my own business as a counsellor at “Insight to Action Counselling Services”, I need to have a reliable vehicle and also access to a loaner vehicle when work is being done to my car.

My family has purchased two vehicles from Galaxy Motors. One for myself and one for my husband after he was in an accident that wrote off his previous car.

I have found the staff to be professional and friendly and also ef� cient. They have a great service center that provides thorough explanations of the work being done and future work that may be necessary. The staff is not pushy on the sales side OR in the service department.

I also appreciated that there was an insurance person there when we purchased so that we didn’t have to run around town.”

‘‘

BYEAH BABY!YEAH BABY!YEAH BABY!YEAH BABY!YEAH BABY!YEAH BABY!YEAH BABY!YEAH BABY!YEAH BABY!YEAH BABY!YEAH BABY!YEAH BABY!YEAH BABY!YEAH BABY!YEAH BABY!YEAH BABY!YEAH BABY!YEAH BABY!YEAH BABY!YEAH BABY!YEAH BABY!YEAH BABY!YEAH BABY!YEAH BABY!YEAH BABY!YEAH BABY!YEAH BABY!YEAH BABY!YEAH BABY!YEAH BABY!YEAH BABY!YEAH BABY!YEAH BABY!YEAH BABY!YEAH BABY!YEAH BABY!YEAH BABY!YEAH BABY!YEAH BABY!YEAH BABY!YEAH BABY!YEAH BABY!YEAH BABY!YEAH BABY!YEAH BABY!YEAH BABY!YEAH BABY!YEAH BABY!YEAH BABY!YEAH BABY!YEAH BABY!

Julie M. SweeneyProfessional Counsellor | Insight Into Action Counselling Services

CityyytytVICTVICTVIC ORTORT IA NEWSNEWSNEW

Bestttofthe

VotedVotedVoted

1

ace For Usedede VeVeV hiclesese #1 AGAIN!#1 AGAIN!#1 AGAIN!#1 AGAIN!#1 AGAIN!#1 AGAIN!#1 AGAIN!#1 AGAIN!#1 AGAIN!#1 AGAIN!#1 AGAIN!#1 AGAIN!#1 AGAIN!#1 AGAIN!#1 AGAIN!#1 AGAIN!#1 AGAIN!#1 AGAIN!#1 AGAIN!#1 AGAIN!#1 AGAIN!#1 AGAIN!#1 AGAIN!#1 AGAIN!#1 AGAIN!#1 AGAIN!#1 AGAIN!#1 AGAIN!#1 AGAIN!#1 AGAIN!#1 AGAIN!#1 AGAIN!#1 AGAIN!#1 AGAIN!#1 AGAIN!#1 AGAIN!#1 AGAIN!#1 AGAIN!#1 AGAIN!#1 AGAIN!#1 AGAIN!#1 AGAIN!#1 AGAIN!#1 AGAIN!#1 AGAIN!#1 AGAIN!#1 AGAIN!#1 AGAIN!#1 AGAIN!#1 AGAIN!#1 AGAIN!#1 AGAIN!#1 AGAIN!#1 AGAIN!#1 AGAIN!#1 AGAIN!#1 AGAIN!#1 AGAIN!#1 AGAIN!#1 AGAIN!#1 AGAIN!#1 AGAIN!#1 AGAIN!#1 AGAIN!#1 AGAIN!#1 AGAIN!#1 AGAIN!#1 AGAIN!#1 AGAIN!#1 AGAIN!#1 AGAIN!#1 AGAIN!

Jody EppDirector of Business Development

Titus Infrastructure Services

250-478-7603

I was happy to deal with Galaxy Motors because they are a locally owned and operated company as well as an active participant

in the local community. They had a great selection of vehicles and were able to professionally and courteously manage my needs. From the sales staff and � nancing team to the service department, Galaxy Motors met all my expectations. My deal had a number of complexities and I was very impressed by their ability to make the deal come together without a hitch. I would certainly recommend Galaxy Motors to any of my friends and family.

‘‘COLWOOD 250-478-7603 • 1772 Island Hwy. COLWOOD 250-478-7603 • 1772 Island Hwy.

www.galaxymotors.netOPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK • SAVE TIME, APPLY ONLINE

2014

YEAR

20thRead what customers

are saying about Galaxy Motors

12 •

Best

of th

e City

Sum

mer

2014

You’ll rarely see a parade, community function or event without Marty the Marmot showing his face. The Victoria sports icon is on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram, making him hugely popular.

Even when the season’s over, Marty’s out making � ve appearances a week.

“We’ve always looked at Marty as being one of our best marketing tools, but also to be relevant in the summer months,” says Darren Parker, senior vice-president of sales and marketing for the Victoria Royals. “He’s as much a member of our franchise as our players. … He’s gonna be around when these young adults who are on our team graduate and go on to different aspects of their lives.

“We take this community stuff quite seriously. We’ve got a platform here at the rink that allows us to do some serious community stuff. … We embrace that.”

Marty the Marmot

As someone who sees thousands of people show their spirit in the hockey arena, how big of a role does sports play in generating community spirit in Victoria?

Q&A – Straight from Marty’s mouth

Marty: I think sports gives our community something to rally around. The support for all of our sports teams in Victoria, including the Royals, is great. The teams, especially the Royals and I, also support a great many charitable causes, which also help to bring our community together for a cause!

You’re involved in many activities outside the rink representing the Royals and the city. How do you see yourself generating that spirit?

M: I have a number of causes that are important to me personally and I take pride in how our community sticks together. It takes a community with a caring heart to help when the call goes out. I see myself as simply another caring member of our community that can help spread the word, and putting a smile on a face that might not be smiling at the moment never hurts.

Do people rally behind mascots in general? M: I feel like we can have an impact and help our

community to rally together. But at the end of the day, I personally feel like it’s the cause or the team that are being supported. At the end of the day, us mascots are fans and supporters, too. But with all the different causes that I support, the response I get is always humbling.

What other ways do you see sports rallying community spirit in Greater Victoria?

M: Sports is something that so many people identify with and have grown up with. It’s something that’s bigger than us and unites us. Whether it’s soccer, baseball, football, or, of course, hockey, sports and the fans are such a rich and rewarding source of community spirit.

Mascot epitomizes community connection

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EYE EXAMSAT GREAT RATES

Our Customers Tell UsWE ARE THE BEST IN THE CITY!

If the time is right to design and build your dream home – likely the most signi� cant pur-chase you’ll ever make – � nding the right builder is crucial.

Not only skilled and knowl-edgeable in their industry, they must also be able to help you de� ne your vision, guide you through the myriad details to be decided, and ultimately help make that dream a reality.

With all this in mind, it’s no surprise Victorians have named Villamar Construction one of the Best in the City for 2014.

“Whether we’re building one of the � nest high-end custom homes in the city, renovating a kitchen or bathroom or providing our profes-sional design expertise, we strive to provide unmatched quality, service and value,” explains owner Dan Schuetze. “To help us achieve our goals – and yours – we have built a team of talented cra� smen, professionals and tradespeople with quality skills, but most im-portantly, quality character.”

A second-generation home builder, Dan grew up in the indus-try, gaining training and experi-ence in all facets of home build-ing before launching Villamar Construction in 2006.

“I really enjoy building beauti-ful homes that people enjoy living in,” Dan re� ects, noting that it’s the relationships built with sta� , trades and clients that have made the company successful. “People enjoy working with us and the experience of making their vision come to life.”

Today, Villamar delivers quality residential homes and commer-cial construction, with clients appreciating their attention to detail, quality workmanship, high standards and community service, including contributing to projects helping at-risk children around the world. � ey have undertaken training in specialty areas such as Built Green and continue to learn as new programs and initiatives are developed. “It’s important to us, but it’s also important to our

clients,” Dan explains.Writes one client:

“A good construction company makes all the di� erence – all of the crew have worked hard and we highly recom-mend their work-manship and their ability to bring a great presence to anyone’s construction projects. � ey met our deadline and worked within our budgets.”

Another who has worked with Villamar on many projects over the years commends their professionalism: “I would recommend them for any project with con� dence – the work willbe done to the utmost qualityand in timely manner.”

Music to the ears of anyone about to embark on a majorrenovation or new home!

To learn more about howVillamar Construction can help

Create your dream home with Villamar Construction BEST of the CITY FINALIST BUSINESS PROFILE: Villamar Construction

ADVERTISING FEATURE

6825A Veyaness Rd. Victoria B.C V8M 2A7Of� ce: 778.351.4088 • www.villamar.ca

2014

YEAR

20th

CityVICTORIA NEWS

Bestofthe

Voted

Custom Home Builder

create your dream home, call 778-351-4088 or visit online at www.villamarconstruction.com

Best of the City Summ

er 2014 • 13

You’ll rarely see a parade, community function or event without Marty the Marmot showing his face. The Victoria sports icon is on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram, making him hugely popular.

Even when the season’s over, Marty’s out making � ve appearances a week.

“We’ve always looked at Marty as being one of our best marketing tools, but also to be relevant in the summer months,” says Darren Parker, senior vice-president of sales and marketing for the Victoria Royals. “He’s as much a member of our franchise as our players. … He’s gonna be around when these young adults who are on our team graduate and go on to different aspects of their lives.

“We take this community stuff quite seriously. We’ve got a platform here at the rink that allows us to do some serious community stuff. … We embrace that.”

Marty the Marmot

As someone who sees thousands of people show their spirit in the hockey arena, how big of a role does sports play in generating community spirit in Victoria?

Q&A – Straight from Marty’s mouth

Marty: I think sports gives our community something to rally around. The support for all of our sports teams in Victoria, including the Royals, is great. The teams, especially the Royals and I, also support a great many charitable causes, which also help to bring our community together for a cause!

You’re involved in many activities outside the rink representing the Royals and the city. How do you see yourself generating that spirit?

M: I have a number of causes that are important to me personally and I take pride in how our community sticks together. It takes a community with a caring heart to help when the call goes out. I see myself as simply another caring member of our community that can help spread the word, and putting a smile on a face that might not be smiling at the moment never hurts.

Do people rally behind mascots in general? M: I feel like we can have an impact and help our

community to rally together. But at the end of the day, I personally feel like it’s the cause or the team that are being supported. At the end of the day, us mascots are fans and supporters, too. But with all the different causes that I support, the response I get is always humbling.

What other ways do you see sports rallying community spirit in Greater Victoria?

M: Sports is something that so many people identify with and have grown up with. It’s something that’s bigger than us and unites us. Whether it’s soccer, baseball, football, or, of course, hockey, sports and the fans are such a rich and rewarding source of community spirit.

Mascot epitomizes community connection

Hillside Shopping Centre • 15-1644 Hillside Avenue250-592-8282

info@hillsidedentalcentre.com

hillsidedentalcentre.com

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK

Thank you Victoria, for sharing your beautiful smiles with us!

2014

YEAR

20th

CityVICTORIA NEWS

Bestofthe

Voted

1725 Quadra Street, Victoria

www.northparkbikeshop.com

Sales & ServicesParts & Accessories

250.386.2453

Best Bicycle Shop!Thanks Victoria, for voting us

BEST B

ICY

CL

E S

HO

P

2014

YEAR

20th

CityVICTORIA NEWS

Bestofthe

Voted

3

14 •

Best

of th

e City

Sum

mer

2014

14 •

Best

of th

e City

Sum

mer

2014

Victoria Coun. Charlayne Thornton-Joe always shows her true colours on Canada Day.

goready,set,

On July 19, Vancouver Island’s largest visual art event celebrates its 27th year – TD Art Gallery Paint-In, also known to locals as the Moss Street Paint-In. The Paint-in is a community outreach initiative of the Art Gallery of Greater Victoria featuring 180 invited professionals and emerging artists from Victoria and surrounding areas. Artists take their studios to the street to display and produce their work on Moss Street between Fort Street and Dallas Road. 250-384-4171; aggv.ca

WORKS OF ART

TRUE CANADIANA

Passion for art

Celebrate the nation’s 147th birthday July 1 with fireworks, music, food and much more along Victoria’s Inner Harbour.

The Canada Day Kid’s Zone returns to Belleville Street with plenty of interactive family activities. Chil-dren’s entertainer Charlotte Diamond will take centre stage.

The ever-popular Living Flag will return to the B.C. legislature lawn and 1,500 red and white T-shirts will be available to participants.

Main Stage highlights on July 1 will transform the legislature lawns into a one-of-a-kind concert. Head-lining this year will be Victoria-based, three-piece folk rock and reggae band, Jon and Roy, performing their highly anticipated new album, By My Side.

A strong mix of local and cultural acts will be show-cased on the Main Stage, including Victoria’s joyful indie newcomers, Towers and Trees, and Kikeyambay, a B.C.-based musical that combines musicians and dancers as a modern and dynamic Afro-fusion electric band.

Throughout the day, the Main Stage will feature a variety of Victoria artists and multicultural performers, including Masala, Compaigni V’ni Dansi’s ‘Louis Riel Métis Dancers’, Cookeilidh and the Sunshine Fitness Club.

A Flavour of Canada will return with an interna-tional food village and sponsor activity tents on Bel-leville Street, while Ship Point will play host to ex-panded family-oriented performances on the Ska Fest Stage. VictoriaCanadaDay.ca

Wish Canada happy birthday

212 - 815 Cloverdale Avenue next to Michael’s

250-380-1881

Szechuan Chilli FishBeijing Roast DuckSzechuan Hot PotSeats up to 120 People Over 50 items

including Dim Sum, Salad & Soft Ice Cream

Buffet All Day11:00 AM - 9:00 PMDinner Menu also availableSeafood Buffet Fri. - Sun. & Holidays

212 - 815 Cloverdale AvenueRaymond’s Restaurant

2011

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Voted

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2012

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18th

CityVICTORIA NEWS

Bestofthe

Voted

1 Thanks Victoria!

Victoria’s Best & LargestChinese Food Buffet

2013

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Bestofthe

Voted

2014

YEAR

20th

CityVICTORIA NEWS

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1

254 Island Highway Victoria • (250) 704-1000 • thewinemaker@shaw.ca

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CityVICTORIA NEWS

Bestofthe

Voted 1

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Victoria Coun. Charlayne Thornton-Joe always shows her true colours on Canada Day.

goready,set,

On July 19, Vancouver Island’s largest visual art event celebrates its 27th year – TD Art Gallery Paint-In, also known to locals as the Moss Street Paint-In. The Paint-in is a community outreach initiative of the Art Gallery of Greater Victoria featuring 180 invited professionals and emerging artists from Victoria and surrounding areas. Artists take their studios to the street to display and produce their work on Moss Street between Fort Street and Dallas Road. 250-384-4171; aggv.ca

WORKS OF ART

TRUE CANADIANA

Passion for art

Celebrate the nation’s 147th birthday July 1 with fireworks, music, food and much more along Victoria’s Inner Harbour.

The Canada Day Kid’s Zone returns to Belleville Street with plenty of interactive family activities. Chil-dren’s entertainer Charlotte Diamond will take centre stage.

The ever-popular Living Flag will return to the B.C. legislature lawn and 1,500 red and white T-shirts will be available to participants.

Main Stage highlights on July 1 will transform the legislature lawns into a one-of-a-kind concert. Head-lining this year will be Victoria-based, three-piece folk rock and reggae band, Jon and Roy, performing their highly anticipated new album, By My Side.

A strong mix of local and cultural acts will be show-cased on the Main Stage, including Victoria’s joyful indie newcomers, Towers and Trees, and Kikeyambay, a B.C.-based musical that combines musicians and dancers as a modern and dynamic Afro-fusion electric band.

Throughout the day, the Main Stage will feature a variety of Victoria artists and multicultural performers, including Masala, Compaigni V’ni Dansi’s ‘Louis Riel Métis Dancers’, Cookeilidh and the Sunshine Fitness Club.

A Flavour of Canada will return with an interna-tional food village and sponsor activity tents on Bel-leville Street, while Ship Point will play host to ex-panded family-oriented performances on the Ska Fest Stage. VictoriaCanadaDay.ca

Wish Canada happy birthday

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goready,set,

FINE TRADITION

COLLECTOR CAR FESTIVAL

For art loversThe Sooke Fine Arts

Show provides the opportunity for the finest artists from Vancouver Island and BC’s coastal islands to showcase and sell their work. The 11-day art show and sale draws more than 8,000 art lovers from Canada, the U.S. and abroad. The show, coming into its 28th year, is Vancouver Island’s longest-running, juried fine art show and the Island’s premier summer arts event. The Sooke Fine Arts Show runs from July 25 to Aug. 4, and takes place at SEAPARC arena at 2168 Phillips Road in Sooke. For more information on the show and events, go to sookefinearts.com.

The annual car-themed street party returns to Oak Bay Aug. 10. The Oak Bay Collector Car Festival (formerly Blethering Place) fills Oak Bay Avenue with about 300 vintage

and special interest vehicles. Prizes are awarded for crowd-pleasing cars including ladies choice; policeman’s choice; furthest travelled, for the car with the longest commute to the show; and best survivor, for an unrestored car nearest to its original condition.

Not-yet-finished cars and the shiny and spotless begin arriving on the Avenue at 8 a.m. and hang around until about 4 p.m. To accommodate growing participation, cars will extend farther down Oak Bay Avenue than in previ-ous years.

Entertainment takes place throughout the day as the Avenue comes alive with festivities. Festival favourites Johnny Vallis and Virtual Elvis will serenade the crowd at intervals throughout the day. 

Once you’ve had your fill of cars, take a side trip as more than 30 artists gather for the annual Bowker Creek Brush-up on the green space along Bowker Creek on Hampshire Rd between Oak Bay Avenue and Cranmore Road. The Brush-up runs Aug. 10 from 11 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Vintage vehicles take over Oak Bay Avenue

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2014

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CityVICTORIA NEWS

Bestofthe

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Eighteen years ago, Howie Mace knew he wanted to build a business based on his person-al beliefs of honesty, integrity and customer service.Today, nearly two decades later, he and his like-minded sta� have done that and more. Regularly recognized as one of the best places in Greater Vic-toria to buy a pre-owned car, Howie’s Car Corral has built a well-deserved reputation that puts the customer � rst, recog-nition that the best business relationships are long-standing and easily advertised: not only do customers return to Howie’s when in the market for their next car, but they also tell their friends and families about their experience.Simply put, “our goal is to pro-vide customers with a quality product at a fair price. It’s about putting the customer � rst and priding ourselves on our cus-tomer service,” Howie explains.It’s no surprise that in addition to many Best of the City nomi-

nations over the years, Howie’s Car Corral is also a recipient of multiple Better Business Bu-reau Vancouver Island’s Torch Awards – including its most re-cent for Trustworthiness – and is a BBB-accredited business with an A+ designation.Sta� – most long-time employ-ees who have been with the Corral for many years – believe in Howie’s philosophy of low-pressure, informed sales. “� ey believe in customer service, they enjoy working here and it shows. We make it very easy. We recognize that purchasing a vehicle is probably the second biggest thing most people will buy, a� er their home, so we’re here to help them � nd the right vehicle,” Howie says.All Howie’s newer vehicles have been inspected and documen-tation is provided for potential buyers to view. For those in need of a budget-friendly ride, you’ll also � nd small selection of value-priced trade-ins.Believing in the one-stop-

shopping approach, customers also enjoy the opportunity to secure � nancing on-site – usu-ally with same-day approval, on approved credit, even for those who have yet to establish a credit rating or who have had credit challenges in the past. Following the purchase, customers are also encouraged to take advantage of Howie’s service department, where two technicians service all makes and models with a combined 65 years of experience.Open 8:30 a.m. to 8 p.m.Monday to � ursday, until 6 p.m. Friday and Saturday and from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Sunday. Stop by Howie’s Car Corraltoday at 1658 Island Hwy to � nd your next great vehicle.“It’s not just about making the sale,” Howie notes. “We want to build relationships with customers.”Learn more atwww.car-corral.com

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2014

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CityVICTORIA NEWS

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The Navy 10K run is one of the many community events CFB Esquimalt personnel participate in every year.

Our navy

They do it all over the world, but also here. If

something happens, we are ready to serve.

>>

Members of the Royal Canadian Navy based at CFB Esquimalt have a reputation for their spirit.

It’s more than what you might first think: the efficiency in marine military exercises, the effectiveness in multi-national missions and all that operational stuff.

A person need not go far to find a sailor engaged in volunteer activi-ties outside the realm of the Cana-dian Armed Forces, whether it’s coaching a community team, serving as a volunteer firefighter or being active on their strata council or a munici-pal committee.

“I think you have to look at the DNA of people in uniform,” says Capt. Luc Cassivi, base commander of CFB Esquimalt. “The base sup-ports all of those activities, but fundamentally, people are about service. That’s why they joined in the first place, and as they embrace what this service is about, they are going out and being a part of their com-munity.”

While the increased technology of today’s ships requires a high degree of technical knowledge, much of what sailors learn in basic training involves developing the skill set to respond to natural disasters or crisis situations.

“They do it all over the world, but also here,” Cassivi says. “If something happens, we are ready to serve.”

When Canadian navy ships are overseas, perhaps tying up at a for-eign port for supplies, inquiries are often made ahead of time whether any local organizations or institu-tions need help on the ground.

“Our sailors provide sweat equity in other parts of the world, build schools and shelters, work at soup kitchens,” Cassivi says. “But they are always serving Canada first.”

Estimates put the number of volun-teer hours by naval personnel and civil-ian base employees at about 400,000 per year. The com-mander suspects that

is only a partial number, since some people don’t report those things.

The base’s annual workplace giv-ing campaign, which supports local organizations such as the United Way, contributes around $600,000 annually. Those numbers make it one of the largest single-employer donors in the Capital Region.

“Our people like to make a dif-ference, not necessarily being in the front leading, but contributing in their own way,” says Cassivi, a 31-year military veteran.

“The wonderful thing about be-ing a leader in the CAF is every day you’re amazed by the wonderful initiative and drive people have, and their desire to make the world a better place.

“I couldn’t be prouder.”

Community spirit & global compassion

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2014

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20th

CityVICTORIA NEWS

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If you get your hair done at Victoria’s designHouse salon, you’ll not only get a look you love, but you’ll also help save the world’s oceans.

Husband and wife team Kurtis Brown and Chantelle Pasychny are the owners of designHouse, based at Victoria Public Market at the Hudson. In the two years since opening, they’ve gained a steady stream of loyal customers based on hair design and an uncompromising commitment to protecting the environment.

“Kurtis had a vision of combining the health world with the beauty world,” says Pasychny, 28, between customers at the busy salon. “We believe in beauty from the inside out, not just the surface beauty that a lot of other hair salons focus on sometimes.”

For Victoria’s eco-conscious clientele, it’s a perfect fit.

The pair’s Earth-first perspective on the beauty industry began when Brown was injured while serving in the Royal Canadian Navy.

“Kurtis hurt his back and was sent to acupuncture without ever having tried it,” says Pasychny. “He was blown away. He hadn’t even considered it as a possible treatment.”

In fact, the effectiveness of the holistic cure was so life-changing that Brown decided to leave his 13-year career in the military to train as an

acupuncturist. At the same time, Pasychny, who has worked as a hair stylist since high school, was creating a business plan for her own salon. The combination of Brown’s philosophy and Pasychny’s ability was a natural fit.

“We have an on-call acupuncturist, massage therapy, reflexology – anything that brings wellness into the beauty industry. We just had our two-year anniversary and it’s been nice to see how the people in the community have attached to our concept.”

designHouse was the first salon on Vancouver Island to team up with Green Circle Salons – a Toronto-based company that works with salons across Canada to reduce the industry’s notorious environmental impact. They encourage recycling, safe disposal of toxic colour tubes, and even collect thousands of kilograms of discarded hair to help clean up the world’s oceans.

“(All of our used hair) is turned into hair booms that are used to soak up West Coast oil

spills,” Pasychny says proudly.The couple’s environmental efforts were

recognized last year when they won Davines’ Eco Salon Design of the World Award, a worldwide competition that rewards salon owners who strive for environmental preservation.

Check out designHouse online at designhousesalon.com

Chantelle Pasychny, co-owner of designHouse salon in downtown Victoria

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Business owners put Earth firstEco-entrepreneurs

All of our hair is turned into hair booms that

are used to soak up West Coast oil spills.

>>

Visit http://y2u.be/EwQOD_Ir2vQ to see how effective hair is at sopping up oil spills.

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2014

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20th

CityVICTORIA NEWS

Bestofthe

Voted 1

Nestled in the natural West Coast setting of Bear Mountain and inspired by the local landscape, it’s no wonder Sante Spa has proven one of Greater Victoria’s favourite escapes.Located at the Westin Bear Mountain, the full-servicespa draws upon the elements of nature to inspire, nurture and empower clients’ wellbeing.O� ering a wide array of spa treatments designed to harness the therapeutic bene� ts of locally cultivated ingredients such as coastal sea kelp, northern clay and lavender, the opportunity for rejuvenation and renewalare virtually endless, including signature treatments created by and exclusive to Sante Spa Victoria, such as the Quartz Crystal Facial. “It really is unique to the local environment. Wefocus on encouraging and empowering our clients from this spectacular location set amongst the trees

at Bear Mountain,” explains the spa’s Amanda Preece. “It really allows people to connect with their natural environment, and restore mind, body and spirit.”� e recipient of multiple service and sustainabilityawards, in addition to being named one North America’s top three destination spas in the World Spa Awards, Sante Spa has also earned the Spa QualityCerti� cation – one of only several spas currentlyrecognized internationally. Welcoming a mix of regular local clients and hotelvisitors, guests are welcomed into a wonderfullyrelaxing environment, including a “living wall” that brings the outside in with a vertical planter � lled with air-purifying plants, and a mineral pool perfect for a rejuvenating soak. “Everyone on the team is committed to providing the best guest experience possible,” Amanda notes, pointing to the knowledgeable, experienced practitioners and the spa concierge who can also help guests customize their personal spa experience.“We really want people to feel a part of what we do.

We really are working together on the same goals – relaxation and rejuvenation.”Summer is a good time to experience one of Sante Spa’s wellness packages, incorporating wellness activities with spa treatments. � e Goldstream Hiker’s Reprieve, for example, features a two-hour guided hike, lunch and time to revitalize in the � erapeutic Mineral Pool followed by either an Elements Mountain Massage or Customized Facial. With Yoga + Spa, enjoy a customized private hour-long yoga session followed by time for personal retreat, a mineral pool soak and a Deep Flow Massage, followed by your choice of spa cuisine.Welcoming guests Sunday to Wednesday from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m. and � ursday to Saturday from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m., visit Sante Spa on Bear Mountain at 1999 Country Club Way. For more information or to book your spa experience, call Sante Spa at 250-391-3920 or learn more at www.santespavictoria.com

1999 Country Club Way | Victoria, BC V9B 6R3 | P. 250.391.3920

Relax and rejuvenate with Sante Spa Victoria

Best of the City Summ

er 2014 • 19

If you get your hair done at Victoria’s designHouse salon, you’ll not only get a look you love, but you’ll also help save the world’s oceans.

Husband and wife team Kurtis Brown and Chantelle Pasychny are the owners of designHouse, based at Victoria Public Market at the Hudson. In the two years since opening, they’ve gained a steady stream of loyal customers based on hair design and an uncompromising commitment to protecting the environment.

“Kurtis had a vision of combining the health world with the beauty world,” says Pasychny, 28, between customers at the busy salon. “We believe in beauty from the inside out, not just the surface beauty that a lot of other hair salons focus on sometimes.”

For Victoria’s eco-conscious clientele, it’s a perfect fit.

The pair’s Earth-first perspective on the beauty industry began when Brown was injured while serving in the Royal Canadian Navy.

“Kurtis hurt his back and was sent to acupuncture without ever having tried it,” says Pasychny. “He was blown away. He hadn’t even considered it as a possible treatment.”

In fact, the effectiveness of the holistic cure was so life-changing that Brown decided to leave his 13-year career in the military to train as an

acupuncturist. At the same time, Pasychny, who has worked as a hair stylist since high school, was creating a business plan for her own salon. The combination of Brown’s philosophy and Pasychny’s ability was a natural fit.

“We have an on-call acupuncturist, massage therapy, reflexology – anything that brings wellness into the beauty industry. We just had our two-year anniversary and it’s been nice to see how the people in the community have attached to our concept.”

designHouse was the first salon on Vancouver Island to team up with Green Circle Salons – a Toronto-based company that works with salons across Canada to reduce the industry’s notorious environmental impact. They encourage recycling, safe disposal of toxic colour tubes, and even collect thousands of kilograms of discarded hair to help clean up the world’s oceans.

“(All of our used hair) is turned into hair booms that are used to soak up West Coast oil

spills,” Pasychny says proudly.The couple’s environmental efforts were

recognized last year when they won Davines’ Eco Salon Design of the World Award, a worldwide competition that rewards salon owners who strive for environmental preservation.

Check out designHouse online at designhousesalon.com

Chantelle Pasychny, co-owner of designHouse salon in downtown Victoria

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Business owners put Earth firstEco-entrepreneurs

All of our hair is turned into hair booms that

are used to soak up West Coast oil spills.

>>

Visit http://y2u.be/EwQOD_Ir2vQ to see how effective hair is at sopping up oil spills.

Campus Honda 506 Finlayson Street, Victoria, BC V8T 5C8250-388-6921 • www.CampusHonda.com

DL 27136

9.2 city/6.6 hwy/8.1 combined L/100 km. Fuel consumption for comparison purposes only and may vary with usage and accessories. See Dealer for latest EnerGuide results published by Natural Resources Canada (when available). Multi-angle rearview camera with guidelines intended to provide assistance to the driver. Always exercise appropriate care while reversing. Real Time AWD™ (Intelligent Control System™) available on LX and EX models and comes standard on EX-L and Touring models. Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System™ with bilingual Voice Recognition and steering wheel controls comes standard on Touring models only. Compatible with select smartphones. Your wireless carrier’s rate plans apply. Only use texting feature when conditions allow you to do so safely.

Easy fold-down 60/40 split rear seatback • Legendary fuel economy • Available Real Time AWD™ (Intelligent Control System™) • Intelligent Multi-Information Display (i-MID) • Multi-angle rearview camera with guidelines • Available voice-activated Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System™ • SMS Texting • Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink™ with audio streaming • USB audio interface • Advanced safety The All-New CR-V. Yeah, it does that.

9.2 city/6.6 hwy/8.1 combined L/100 km. Fuel consumption for comparison purposes only and may vary with usage and accessories. See Dealer for latest EnerGuide results published by Natural Resources Canada (when available). Multi-angle rearview camera with guidelines intended to provide assistance to the driver. Always exercise appropriate care while reversing. Real Time AWD™ (Intelligent Control System™) available on LX and EX models and comes standard on EX-L and Touring models. Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System™ with bilingual Voice Recognition and steering wheel controls comes standard on Touring models only. Compatible with select smartphones. Your wireless carrier’s rate plans apply. Only use texting feature when conditions allow you to do so safely.

Easy fold-down 60/40 split rear seatback • Legendary fuel economy • Available Real Time AWD™ (Intelligent Control System™) • Intelligent Multi-Information Display (i-MID) • Multi-angle rearview camera with guidelines • Available voice-activated Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System™ • SMS Texting • Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink™ with audio streaming • USB audio interface • Advanced safety The All-New CR-V. Yeah, it does that.

2014 CRV EX

9.2 city/6.6 hwy/8.1 combined L/100 km. Fuel consumption for comparison purposes only and may vary with usage and accessories. See Dealer for latest EnerGuide results published by Natural Resources Canada (when available). Multi-angle rearview camera with guidelines intended to provide assistance to the driver. Always exercise appropriate care while reversing. Real Time AWD™ (Intelligent Control System™) available on LX and EX models and comes standard on EX-L and Touring models. Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System™ with bilingual Voice Recognition and steering wheel controls comes standard on Touring models only. Compatible with select smartphones. Your wireless carrier’s rate plans apply. Only use texting feature when conditions allow you to do so safely.Easy fold-down 60/40 split rear seatback • Legendary fuel economy • Available Real Time AWD™ (Intelligent Control System™) • Intelligent Multi-Information Display (i-MID) • Multi-angle rearview camera with guidelines • Available voice-activated Honda Satellite-Linked Navigation System™ • SMS Texting • Bluetooth® HandsFreeLink™ with audio streaming • USB audio interface • Advanced safety The All-New CR-V. Yeah, it does that. Expires July 31, 2014.

Thanks Victoria,We think you’re THE BEST!

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20 •

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travel and play against teams from around B.C. Now that I am in a position to give back to my community and help others raise money and awareness for different causes, there is nothing I like doing more.”

Many Victoria-bred

sports personalities also give back on a larger scale. 

Hesjedal recently started the Ryders Cycling Society of Canada, which helps cre-ate and sustain opportuni-ties for young people from all over the country to ride bicycles. And Saanich-raised

NBA player Steve Nash and his family started the Steve Nash Foundation in 2001, which is dedicated to assist-ing underserved children in their health, personal devel-opment and education. Both foundations have headquar-ters located in Victoria.

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San Jose Shark Matt Irwin, #52, is a Victoria native who says there’s nothing better than being in a position to give back to the community.

From fundraisers to difference makersA breeding ground and

training hub for many pro-fessional athletes, Greater Victoria lays claim to having many pro athletes who are still dedicated to their home-town, even many years after moving elsewhere to play.

Whether it be donations to local causes, appearing at events, or starting their own foundations, many pro sports stars keep Victoria close to their hearts. 

The likes of triathlete Simon Whitfield, Dallas Stars siblings Jordie and Jamie Benn and world-class cyclist Ryder Hesjedal have become household names, but these athletes continue to maintain their Victoria connections, support local causes and contribute to the overall community spirit here. Why?

“As an athlete, giving back to the community that raised you and continues to support you is one of the most important and gratifying parts of my job,”

explained Matt Irwin, NHL defenceman for the San Jose Sharks, and a Brentwood Bay native.

“It’s very satisfying to be able to reach out to my com-munity and help in any way I can,” Irwin said.

The 26-year-old grew up playing hockey with the Peninsula Eagles and later went on to play Junior B with the Saanich Braves. He then played three full seasons with the Nanaimo Clippers before attending the University of Massachu-setts. Irwin’s connections to Victoria still run deep, with his family still located in Brentwood.

“When I was growing up in Central Saanich, my family and I depended a lot on fundraisers to help support myself and my teammates to travel for hockey tournaments all over the province. Without the generosity of others, there is a good chance we wouldn’t have had the opportunity to

Athletes give back to hometown

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Best of the City Summ

er 2014 • 21

travel and play against teams from around B.C. Now that I am in a position to give back to my community and help others raise money and awareness for different causes, there is nothing I like doing more.”

Many Victoria-bred

sports personalities also give back on a larger scale. 

Hesjedal recently started the Ryders Cycling Society of Canada, which helps cre-ate and sustain opportuni-ties for young people from all over the country to ride bicycles. And Saanich-raised

NBA player Steve Nash and his family started the Steve Nash Foundation in 2001, which is dedicated to assist-ing underserved children in their health, personal devel-opment and education. Both foundations have headquar-ters located in Victoria.

21 •

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San Jose Shark Matt Irwin, #52, is a Victoria native who says there’s nothing better than being in a position to give back to the community.

From fundraisers to difference makersA breeding ground and

training hub for many pro-fessional athletes, Greater Victoria lays claim to having many pro athletes who are still dedicated to their home-town, even many years after moving elsewhere to play.

Whether it be donations to local causes, appearing at events, or starting their own foundations, many pro sports stars keep Victoria close to their hearts. 

The likes of triathlete Simon Whitfield, Dallas Stars siblings Jordie and Jamie Benn and world-class cyclist Ryder Hesjedal have become household names, but these athletes continue to maintain their Victoria connections, support local causes and contribute to the overall community spirit here. Why?

“As an athlete, giving back to the community that raised you and continues to support you is one of the most important and gratifying parts of my job,”

explained Matt Irwin, NHL defenceman for the San Jose Sharks, and a Brentwood Bay native.

“It’s very satisfying to be able to reach out to my com-munity and help in any way I can,” Irwin said.

The 26-year-old grew up playing hockey with the Peninsula Eagles and later went on to play Junior B with the Saanich Braves. He then played three full seasons with the Nanaimo Clippers before attending the University of Massachu-setts. Irwin’s connections to Victoria still run deep, with his family still located in Brentwood.

“When I was growing up in Central Saanich, my family and I depended a lot on fundraisers to help support myself and my teammates to travel for hockey tournaments all over the province. Without the generosity of others, there is a good chance we wouldn’t have had the opportunity to

Athletes give back to hometown

Thank You

Victoria!

Beacon HillChildren’s FarmDelighting visitors for the past 29 years!Come on down for a visit with our friendly farm animals.Hang out with our beloved goats in the petting areaand be sure to catch our famous goat stampede!

CIRCLE DRIVE BEACON HILL PARK

Funded By Your Donations OPEN DAILY 10 AM - 5 PM

GOAT STAMPEDES 10:10 AM & 5:10 PM631 Courtney (one block north of Empress Hotel) • 250.384.bugs (2847)

victoriabugzoo.ca

22 •

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2014

Gorge Rd. West

Gorge Rd. W.

Tilli

cum

Rd.

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Tilli

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Gorge Rd. W.

101-300 Gorge Road West (Next to Il Greco Restaurant)

250.590.5524 • myhealthessentials.ca

For updates on upcoming seminars and in-store specials, follow us on Facebook.

Prices in effect until July 31st, 2014

Victori

a’s

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GUARANTEED

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101-300 Gorge Road West

500ml$3799

Nutra CollagenNutra Collagen helps to maintain healthy cartilage, bones, skin and connective tissues. Made of endogenous collagen. Use Nutra Collagen for a progressive and sustained regeneration of connective tissues. 15ml of Nutra Collagen contains: 5000 mg of Hydrolysed Collagen

CuraMin 60s $2999 CuraMed 60s $3699

CuraMed 750Safe, studied, effective.• Superior support for a healthy inflammation response• Supports liver, brain, heart, and immune health• Protects cells from oxidative stress and free radicals

120 tabs. $4799

Bone Strength Take CareProvides key nutrients like Vitamin D3, which helps in the absorption of calcium, and Vitamin K, which helps in the maintenance of bones. May reduce the risk of osteoporosis when combined with sufficient Vitamin D, a healthy diet and regular exercise.

600g$3899

Vital Whey®

A delicious, 100% natural nutritional protein perfect for adults and children as well as athletes looking for the perfect pre and post-workout supplement. Vital Whey® is the finest biologically-active, non-denatured native whey protein.

C20Uses an especially fragrant variety of coconuts unique to the inland soils of Thailand, yielding a more delightful taste. All C2O coconut water is packed fresh to ensure every can has our signature flavour and the quality that makes C2O so popular among coconut water lovers.

2 FOR $424 FOR $42

454g $12 3lb FOR $34

Hemp HeartsHemp foods are:• A complete, plant-based protein that contain all 10 essential amino acids• Full of omega 3 & 6 • Rich in Omega-6 GLA, helps with skin & hair health, hormone balancing, inflammation, cholesterol maintenance, & overall heart health.

2nd Harvest MatchaDoMatcha™ 2nd Harvest is harvested in August instead of spring. Ideal for blended Matcha beverages, such as delicious Matcha lattes or refreshing Matcha smoothies. (Makes approx. 75 servings.)

80g $2999

FREE BOOK WITH PURCHASE

MAGsmart Magnesium Supplement• Stops muscle cramping• Controls restless legs and twitchy eyelids• Lowers high blood pressure• Stops pain of fibromyalgia and migraines• Aids restful sleep

400g $299960 softgels

$1997

Herring GoldContains fast-absorption omega-3 phospholipids, omega-3 DHA, EPA, choline, and astaxanthin that comes exclusively from spring-spawning Norwegian herring roe that is sustainably harvested and certified to conserve the marine habitat.784g

$5887

Enerex Phyto Protein A super clean blend of certified organic & raw vegan proteins, providing the natural energy of 22 grams of complete protein per serving, including all essential amino acids. Available in four flavours – Natural, Vanilla, and Raspberry Banana.

PVL MCT Oil • Great for high energy • Provides thermogenic energy for low carb diets • Preserves muscle tissue• 6x more pure MCTs than coconut oil • Provides twice the energy of carbs

1000ml $2999

L-Carnitine Helps the body release stored body fat and transport it into the muscles to be burned as energy. Increases energy and improves performance. 500mg of L-Carnitine per softgel. Provides antioxidant protection. Supports cardiovascular health. 60 caps. $1999

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15% OFF ENTIRE LINE

Sisu Happy Canada from Sisu celebrate with an extra 15% off the entire line!

Botanica Coconut Oil• Picked fresh and cold pressed to provide the best possible flavour and nutritional profile• Certified Organic and Fair Trade• Gluten Free, Hexane Free, non-GMO

445ml $1499

We’re open late 7 days a week! Mon-Fri, 9:30 am - 8:30 pmSat, 9:30 am - 8 pm • Sun, 10 am - 8 pm

Wild Meats - Natural Foods - Natural Body Care - Supplements - Vita-Mix - Vibram Fivefingers

Leisure and Entertainment

Best Place To Take A Tourist 1. The Butchart Gardens 2. Inner Harbour 3. Royal BC Museum

Best Place For Afternoon Tea1. The Fairmont Empress 2. Murchie’s3. The White Heather Tea Room

Best Place To Walk Your Dog 1. Dallas Road2. Thetis Lake Regional Park 3. Beacon Hill Park

Best Place To Meet A Mate 1. University of Victoria2. Starbucks3. Thrifty Foods

Best Free Fun1. Beacon Hill Park 2. Inner Harbour 3. Dallas Road

Best Place To Worship1. Christ Church Cathedral 2. St. Andrew’s Cathedral 3. Nature/Outside

Best Museum1. Royal BC Museum 2. Maritime Museum of BC 3. Art Gallery of Greater Victoria

Best Adventure Tourism1. Prince of Whales2. WildPlay Element Parks 3. Adrenaline

Best Place To Spot A Celebrity1. The Fairmont Empress 2. Government Street 3. Inner Harbour

Local Celebrity You’d Like To Invite To Dinner1. Ed Bain 2. T-Bone the Barber 3. David Foster

Victoria’s Inner Harbour with the Fairmont Empress in the background.

CONGRATULATIONS!

2014

YEAR

20th

CityVICTORIA NEWS

Bestofthe

Voted

� e Best of the City 2014 Results

AS VOTED BY THE READERS OF VICTORIA NEWS, OAK BAY NEWS, SAANICH NEWS AND GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE, MAY 2014

Best of the City Summ

er 2014 • 23

ORDER ON LINE @www.AliBabaPizza.com

MayfairShopping Centre

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2014 Best of the City 2014

YEAR

20th

CityVICTORIA NEWS

Bestofthe

Voted

3

Leisure and Entertainment

Best Place To Take A Tourist 1. The Butchart Gardens 2. Inner Harbour 3. Royal BC Museum

Best Place For Afternoon Tea1. The Fairmont Empress 2. Murchie’s3. The White Heather Tea Room

Best Place To Walk Your Dog 1. Dallas Road2. Thetis Lake Regional Park 3. Beacon Hill Park

Best Place To Meet A Mate 1. University of Victoria2. Starbucks3. Thrifty Foods

Best Free Fun1. Beacon Hill Park 2. Inner Harbour 3. Dallas Road

Best Place To Worship1. Christ Church Cathedral 2. St. Andrew’s Cathedral 3. Nature/Outside

Best Museum1. Royal BC Museum 2. Maritime Museum of BC 3. Art Gallery of Greater Victoria

Best Adventure Tourism1. Prince of Whales2. WildPlay Element Parks 3. Adrenaline

Best Place To Spot A Celebrity1. The Fairmont Empress 2. Government Street 3. Inner Harbour

Local Celebrity You’d Like To Invite To Dinner1. Ed Bain 2. T-Bone the Barber 3. David Foster

Victoria’s Inner Harbour with the Fairmont Empress in the background.

CONGRATULATIONS!

2014

YEAR

20th

CityVICTORIA NEWS

Bestofthe

Voted

� e Best of the City 2014 Results

AS VOTED BY THE READERS OF VICTORIA NEWS, OAK BAY NEWS, SAANICH NEWS AND GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE, MAY 2014

Victoria’s Choicefor fi ne

Chinese Cuisine

Thank You Victoria for Choosing

1321 Quadra St. at Johnson, Downtown VictoriaTel: (250) 385-4405 Fax: (250) 385-1392Visit us online at www.mings.ca

2014

YEAR

20th

CityVICTORIA NEWS

Bestofthe

Voted

1

B

EST CHINESE FOO

D

24 •

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2014

BC’s Largest Wine Stores

And nominating us as the “Best of the City” wine store!

• Over 3,000 wines available in-store & online

• Free daily tastings from 2-6pm

• Over 300 premium & collector wines in our Vintage Room

• Free delivery in BC on orders over $200

5% offAny 12 bottles all the time – mixed

cases included

And nominating us as the

Everything Wine Thanks You for Your Votes!

18th

CityVICTORIA NEWS

Bestofthe

Voted

1

0326 Everything Wine - Monday Mag - Best of the City 2013 Nomination As - Black and White 9.75in W x 6.25in H - 02 Final Press Ready PDF

Designed by Gary Leung 2013 604 267 2113

2014

YEAR

20th

CityVICTORIA NEW

SBestofthe

Voted 1

Shopping

Best Shop For Vitamins & Nutrition1. The Vitamin Shop 2. Popeye’s 3. Lifestyles Market

Best Bookstore1. Bolen Books2. Munro’s Books3. Chapters

Best Used Bookstore 1. Russell Books2. Chronicles of Crime3. Penelope’s

Best Flower Shop 1. Brown’s The Florist2. Thrifty Foods3. Rook and Rose

Best Garden Shop 1. GardenWorks2. Marigold Nursery3. Dig This

Best Thrift Shop 1. Value Village2. The Salvation Army3. Victoria Women In Need

Community Cooperative

Best Consignment Shop 1. My Sister’s Closet2. Baja Rosi’s Consignment Cabana3. The Patch

Best New Car Dealership 1. BMW Victoria2. Metro Lexus Toyota3. Pacific Mazda

Best Used Car Dealership1. Galaxy Motors 2. Howies Car Corral 3. Metro Lexus Toyota

Best For Motorcycles/Scooters1. Action

Motorcycles2. SG Power 3. Steve Drane

Harley-Davidson

Best For Boat/Marine1. SG Power2. Sherwood Marine3. West Marine

Best For RV1. Arbutus RV 2. Peden R.V. Superstore3. Triangle RV Centre

Best For Eyewear1. Goo Goo Goggles 2. Maycock Optical 3. Optiks

International

Best Place To Spot A Ghost1. Ross Bay Cemetery2. Bastion Square 3. Craigdarroch Castle

Best Urban Hiking Trail1. Mount Douglas Park2. The Galloping Goose Trail3. Goldstream/Mt. Finlayson

Best Local Radio Personality1. Ed Bain 2. Robin Farrell 3. Dylan Willows

Best Local TV Personality1. Ed Bain 2. Gordie Tupper 3. Astrid Braun Schmidt

AS VOTED BY THE READERS OF VICTORIA NEWS, OAK BAY NEWS, SAANICH NEWS AND GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE, MAY 2014

� e Best of the City 2014 Results

2014

YEAR

20th

CityVICTORIA NEWS

Bestofthe

Voted

Local Radio and TV Personality Ed Bain

Best Bicycle Shop1. Oak Bay Bicycles 2. Russ Hays The Bicycle Shop3. North Park BIkes

Best For Your Pets 1. Bosley’s Pet Food Plus2. Petcetera3. Petsmart

Best For Appliances 1. Sears2. Trail Appliances3. Future Shop

Best For Hardware (Independent) 1. Capital Iron2. Slegg Lumber3. Castle Building Centres

Best For Hardware (Chain) 1. The Home Depot2. Rona3. Home Hardware

Best Kitchen Shop 1. Capital Iron2. Cook Culture3. Penna & Co.

Kitchen & Giftware

Best Independent Shoe Store 1. The Cobbler2. Footloose3. She She Shoes

Best Fashion Boutique 1. Still Life For Him & For Her2. Mango’s Boutique

& Accessories 3. Spank3. True Boutique

Best Farmers Market 1. Moss Street

Community Market2. Red Barn Market3. The Root Cellar Village

Green Grocer

Best For Window Coverings 1. Ruffell & Brown

Window Fashions2. Island Window3. The Home Depot

Niko, a fi ve-year-old Mexican rescue dog;

Still Life For Him & For Her

Best For Window Coverings

Best For Flooring 1. The Home Depot2. Island Flooring3. End Of The Roll

Best For Lighting 1. Mclaren Lighting2. Pine Lighting3. Illuminations Lighting Solutions

Best Furniture Store (Independent)1. Dodd’s Furniture & Mattress 2. Max Furniture 3. Sager’s Home Living

Best Furniture Store (Chain)1. The Brick 2. Sears 3. Urban Barn

Best Mattress Store 1. Sleep Country 2. Dodd’s Furniture & Mattress 3. The Brick

Best Paint Store 1. Cloverdale Paint 2. Pacific Paint/Benjamin Moore 3. The Home Depot

Best For Pool/Spa1. Capital Iron 2. Borton’s Spas & Pools Ltd. 3. Vintage Hot Tubs

Best For Barbeques1. Capital Iron 2. The Home Depot3. Canadian Tire

Best For Musical Instruments1. Long & McQuade2. Larsen Music 3. Tom Lee Music

Best For Jewellery1. Violette’s2. Peoples3. Birks

Best of the City Summ

er 2014 • 25

A Fresh Tradition

250-477-6513 • 3829 Cadboro Bay Rd. • www.peppers-foods.com • Mon-Fri 8am-9pm • Sat-Sun 8am-7:30pm

Pepper’s Foods has been serving Victoria as a full service, independent grocery store for over 50 years. We are committed to continuing the same traditions begun in 1962: the freshest, highest quality products at the lowest possible prices. Local is always our first choice. Our independent nature allows us to listen to our customers and give them what they want.

A truly independent store, visit Pepper’s Foods for all your local shopping needs.

Celebrating Over 50 Years of Good Food

Shopping

Best Shop For Vitamins & Nutrition1. The Vitamin Shop 2. Popeye’s 3. Lifestyles Market

Best Bookstore1. Bolen Books2. Munro’s Books3. Chapters

Best Used Bookstore 1. Russell Books2. Chronicles of Crime3. Penelope’s

Best Flower Shop 1. Brown’s The Florist2. Thrifty Foods3. Rook and Rose

Best Garden Shop 1. GardenWorks2. Marigold Nursery3. Dig This

Best Thrift Shop 1. Value Village2. The Salvation Army3. Victoria Women In Need

Community Cooperative

Best Consignment Shop 1. My Sister’s Closet2. Baja Rosi’s Consignment Cabana3. The Patch

Best New Car Dealership 1. BMW Victoria2. Metro Lexus Toyota3. Pacific Mazda

Best Used Car Dealership1. Galaxy Motors 2. Howies Car Corral 3. Metro Lexus Toyota

Best For Motorcycles/Scooters1. Action

Motorcycles2. SG Power 3. Steve Drane

Harley-Davidson

Best For Boat/Marine1. SG Power2. Sherwood Marine3. West Marine

Best For RV1. Arbutus RV 2. Peden R.V. Superstore3. Triangle RV Centre

Best For Eyewear1. Goo Goo Goggles 2. Maycock Optical 3. Optiks

International

Best Place To Spot A Ghost1. Ross Bay Cemetery2. Bastion Square 3. Craigdarroch Castle

Best Urban Hiking Trail1. Mount Douglas Park2. The Galloping Goose Trail3. Goldstream/Mt. Finlayson

Best Local Radio Personality1. Ed Bain 2. Robin Farrell 3. Dylan Willows

Best Local TV Personality1. Ed Bain 2. Gordie Tupper 3. Astrid Braun Schmidt

AS VOTED BY THE READERS OF VICTORIA NEWS, OAK BAY NEWS, SAANICH NEWS AND GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE, MAY 2014

� e Best of the City 2014 Results

2014

YEAR

20th

CityVICTORIA NEWS

Bestofthe

Voted

Local Radio and TV Personality Ed Bain

Best Bicycle Shop1. Oak Bay Bicycles 2. Russ Hays The Bicycle Shop3. North Park BIkes

Best For Your Pets 1. Bosley’s Pet Food Plus2. Petcetera3. Petsmart

Best For Appliances 1. Sears2. Trail Appliances3. Future Shop

Best For Hardware (Independent) 1. Capital Iron2. Slegg Lumber3. Castle Building Centres

Best For Hardware (Chain) 1. The Home Depot2. Rona3. Home Hardware

Best Kitchen Shop 1. Capital Iron2. Cook Culture3. Penna & Co.

Kitchen & Giftware

Best Independent Shoe Store 1. The Cobbler2. Footloose3. She She Shoes

Best Fashion Boutique 1. Still Life For Him & For Her2. Mango’s Boutique

& Accessories 3. Spank3. True Boutique

Best Farmers Market 1. Moss Street

Community Market2. Red Barn Market3. The Root Cellar Village

Green Grocer

Best For Window Coverings 1. Ruffell & Brown

Window Fashions2. Island Window3. The Home Depot

Niko, a fi ve-year-old Mexican rescue dog;

Still Life For Him & For Her

Best For Window Coverings

Best For Flooring 1. The Home Depot2. Island Flooring3. End Of The Roll

Best For Lighting 1. Mclaren Lighting2. Pine Lighting3. Illuminations Lighting Solutions

Best Furniture Store (Independent)1. Dodd’s Furniture & Mattress 2. Max Furniture 3. Sager’s Home Living

Best Furniture Store (Chain)1. The Brick 2. Sears 3. Urban Barn

Best Mattress Store 1. Sleep Country 2. Dodd’s Furniture & Mattress 3. The Brick

Best Paint Store 1. Cloverdale Paint 2. Pacific Paint/Benjamin Moore 3. The Home Depot

Best For Pool/Spa1. Capital Iron 2. Borton’s Spas & Pools Ltd. 3. Vintage Hot Tubs

Best For Barbeques1. Capital Iron 2. The Home Depot3. Canadian Tire

Best For Musical Instruments1. Long & McQuade2. Larsen Music 3. Tom Lee Music

Best For Jewellery1. Violette’s2. Peoples3. Birks

26 •

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Best of the City Summ

er 2014 • 27

Restaurants/Food & Drink

Best New Restaurant1. Bin 4 Burger Lounge 2. Be Love3. Little Jumbo

Best Old School Diner1. Floyd’s Diner2. John’s Place Restaurant 3. Spoons Diner

Best For First Date1. The Keg Steakhouse & Bar 2. Nautical Nellies 3. Fireside Grill

Best Seafood 1. Nautical Nellies 2. Red Fish Blue Fish3. Pescatores Seafood & Grill

Best For Steak 1. The Keg Steakhouse & Bar2. Brasserie L’école 3. Nautical Nellies

Best Chinese 1. Ming’s2. Don Mees3. J & J Wonton Noodle House

Best Greek 1. Opa Souvlaki2. Eugene’s3. Il Greco

Best Italian 1. Il Terrazzo2. Pagliacci’s3. Zambri’s

Best Japanese 1. The Japanese Village Restaurant2. Azuma Sushi3. Ebizo Japanese Restaurant

Best Mexican 1. Café Mexico2. Hernande’z Cocina3. La Taquisa

Best Vietnamese 1. Pho Vy2. Green Leaf Bistro3. Saigon Night

Best Indian 1. Sizzling Tandoor2. Kuku Take Out & Delivery3. Sabri Indian Cuisine

Best Thai 1. Little Thai Place 2. Baan Thai 3. Sabhai Thai

Best For Breakfast1. Jam Café 2. John’s Place Restaurant3. Blue Fox Cafe

Best Vegetarian/Vegan1. Rebar 2. The Lotus Pond 3. Be Love

Best “All You Can Eat”1. Raymond’s Restaurant 2. Purple Garden 3. Sizzling Tandoor

Best Burger 1. Bin 4 Burger Lounge2. The Pink Bicycle3. Big Wheel Burger

Best Pizza 1. Pizzeria Prima Strada2. Romeo’s3. Ali Baba Pizza

Best Patio Bar 1. Canoe2. The Local Kitchen3. Sabri Indian Cuisine

Best Sports Bar 1. Shark Club2. The Podium Sports Grill3. The Sticky Wicket Pub

Best For A Martini 1. Clive’s Classic Lounge 2. Veneto Tapa Lounge3. The Bengal Lounge

Best Pub 1. Bard & Banker Scottish Pub2. Irish Times 3. Darcy’s Pub

Best For Scotch1. Bard & Banker Scottish Pub2. Clive’s Classic Lounge3. Argyle Attic

Food Service

Best Grocery Store1. Thrifty Foods 2. The Market Stores 3. The Root Cellar Village Green

Grocer

Best Bulk Food Store1. Bulk Barn 2. Costco 3. For Good Measure

Best For Meat1. Glenwood Meats 2. Thrifty Foods 3. Red Barn Market

Best For Seafood1. Thrifty Foods 2. Finest At Sea3. The Market Stores Best Business Lunch

1. Cactus Club Café2. Moxie’s Classic Grill 3. Bin 4 Burger Lounge

Best For Your Sweet Tooth1. The Dutch Bakery 2. Rogers’ Chocolates 3. Ooh La La Cupcakes

Best Coffee/Latte/Cappuccino(Independent)1. Habit 2. Caffé Fantastico 3. Discovery Coffee

Best Ice Cream 1. Beacon Drive-In2. Marble Slab Creamery3. Qoola Frozen Yogurt Bar

Best Wings 1. The Tartan Toque 2. Shark Club3. 1550’s Pub Style Restaurant

Best Fish & Chips 1. Red Fish Blue Fish2. Barb’s Fish & Chips3. Haultain Fish & Chips

AS VOTED BY THE READERS OF VICTORIA NEWS, OAK BAY NEWS, SAANICH NEWS AND GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE, MAY 2014

� e Best of the City 2014 Results

2014

YEAR

20th

CityVICTORIA NEWS

Bestofthe

Voted

Best for Seafood

Best Flower Shop

THANK YOU VICTORIA!

Best for Produce

Best for Meat

Your Destination for Better Food > Customer Care 250.544.1234 > thriftyfoods.com

Best Grocery Store

Best Place to meet a Mate We look forward to serving you. For years to come!

2014

YEAR

20th

CityVICTORIA NEWS

Bestofthe

Voted

1

2014

YEAR

20th

CityVICTORIA NEWS

Bestofthe

Voted

1

2014

YEAR

20th

CityVICTORIA NEWS

Bestofthe

Voted

2

2014

YEAR

20th

CityVICTORIA NEWS

Bestofthe

Voted

2

2014

YEAR

20th

CityVICTORIA NEWS

Bestofthe

Voted

32014

YEAR

20th

CityVICTORIA NEWS

Bestofthe

Voted

3

26 •

Best

of th

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Best of the City Summ

er 2014 • 27

Restaurants/Food & Drink

Best New Restaurant1. Bin 4 Burger Lounge 2. Be Love3. Little Jumbo

Best Old School Diner1. Floyd’s Diner2. John’s Place Restaurant 3. Spoons Diner

Best For First Date1. The Keg Steakhouse & Bar 2. Nautical Nellies 3. Fireside Grill

Best Seafood 1. Nautical Nellies 2. Red Fish Blue Fish3. Pescatores Seafood & Grill

Best For Steak 1. The Keg Steakhouse & Bar2. Brasserie L’école 3. Nautical Nellies

Best Chinese 1. Ming’s2. Don Mees3. J & J Wonton Noodle House

Best Greek 1. Opa Souvlaki2. Eugene’s3. Il Greco

Best Italian 1. Il Terrazzo2. Pagliacci’s3. Zambri’s

Best Japanese 1. The Japanese Village Restaurant2. Azuma Sushi3. Ebizo Japanese Restaurant

Best Mexican 1. Café Mexico2. Hernande’z Cocina3. La Taquisa

Best Vietnamese 1. Pho Vy2. Green Leaf Bistro3. Saigon Night

Best Indian 1. Sizzling Tandoor2. Kuku Take Out & Delivery3. Sabri Indian Cuisine

Best Thai 1. Little Thai Place 2. Baan Thai 3. Sabhai Thai

Best For Breakfast1. Jam Café 2. John’s Place Restaurant3. Blue Fox Cafe

Best Vegetarian/Vegan1. Rebar 2. The Lotus Pond 3. Be Love

Best “All You Can Eat”1. Raymond’s Restaurant 2. Purple Garden 3. Sizzling Tandoor

Best Burger 1. Bin 4 Burger Lounge2. The Pink Bicycle3. Big Wheel Burger

Best Pizza 1. Pizzeria Prima Strada2. Romeo’s3. Ali Baba Pizza

Best Patio Bar 1. Canoe2. The Local Kitchen3. Sabri Indian Cuisine

Best Sports Bar 1. Shark Club2. The Podium Sports Grill3. The Sticky Wicket Pub

Best For A Martini 1. Clive’s Classic Lounge 2. Veneto Tapa Lounge3. The Bengal Lounge

Best Pub 1. Bard & Banker Scottish Pub2. Irish Times 3. Darcy’s Pub

Best For Scotch1. Bard & Banker Scottish Pub2. Clive’s Classic Lounge3. Argyle Attic

Food Service

Best Grocery Store1. Thrifty Foods 2. The Market Stores 3. The Root Cellar Village Green

Grocer

Best Bulk Food Store1. Bulk Barn 2. Costco 3. For Good Measure

Best For Meat1. Glenwood Meats 2. Thrifty Foods 3. Red Barn Market

Best For Seafood1. Thrifty Foods 2. Finest At Sea3. The Market Stores Best Business Lunch

1. Cactus Club Café2. Moxie’s Classic Grill 3. Bin 4 Burger Lounge

Best For Your Sweet Tooth1. The Dutch Bakery 2. Rogers’ Chocolates 3. Ooh La La Cupcakes

Best Coffee/Latte/Cappuccino(Independent)1. Habit 2. Caffé Fantastico 3. Discovery Coffee

Best Ice Cream 1. Beacon Drive-In2. Marble Slab Creamery3. Qoola Frozen Yogurt Bar

Best Wings 1. The Tartan Toque 2. Shark Club3. 1550’s Pub Style Restaurant

Best Fish & Chips 1. Red Fish Blue Fish2. Barb’s Fish & Chips3. Haultain Fish & Chips

AS VOTED BY THE READERS OF VICTORIA NEWS, OAK BAY NEWS, SAANICH NEWS AND GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE, MAY 2014

� e Best of the City 2014 Results

2014

YEAR

20th

CityVICTORIA NEWS

Bestofthe

Voted

Best for Seafood

Best Flower Shop

THANK YOU VICTORIA!

Best for Produce

Best for Meat

Your Destination for Better Food > Customer Care 250.544.1234 > thriftyfoods.com

Best Grocery Store

Best Place to meet a Mate We look forward to serving you. For years to come!

2014

YEAR

20th

CityVICTORIA NEWS

Bestofthe

Voted

1

2014

YEAR

20th

CityVICTORIA NEWS

Bestofthe

Voted

1

2014

YEAR

20th

CityVICTORIA NEWS

Bestofthe

Voted

2

2014

YEAR

20th

CityVICTORIA NEWS

Bestofthe

Voted

2

2014

YEAR

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CityVICTORIA NEWS

Bestofthe

Voted

32014

YEAR

20th

CityVICTORIA NEWS

Bestofthe

Voted

3

28 •

Best

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2014

www.2BurleyMen.comLOCAL & LONG DISTANCE • PIANO MOVING • JUNK REMOVALLOCAL & LONG DISTANCE • PIANO MOVING • JUNK REMOVAL

Nanaimo250-753-6633Parksville/Qualicum250-951-0010Victoria250-686-6507

Thank youVictoria fornominatingus for BestMovers!!

2014

YEAR

20th

CityVICTORIA NEWS

Bestofthe

Voted

1

Best For Produce 1. The Root Cellar Village Green

Grocer2. Red Barn Market3. Thrifty Foods

Best Organic Grocer 1. The Root Cellar

Village Green Grocer2. Red Barn Market3. Lifestyles Market3. Planet Organic

Best Bakery 1. COBS Bread2. The Dutch Bakery3. Foi Epi

Best Specialty Deli 1. Italian Food Imports 2. Red Barn Market 3. The Root Cellar Village Green

Grocer

Best Local Brewery/Winery1. Phillips 2. Hoyne Brewing Company 3. Spinnakers Gastro Brewpub

Best Wine Store1. Everything Wine 2. Cascadia 3. BC Liquor Stores

Best For Making Your Own Wine1. The Winemaker 2. Blanshard St. Winery3. Cook Street Village Wineworks

Best U Brew 1. Bedford Brewing Company2. West Coast Brew Shop3. Stellar Wines

Service

Best Hotel 1. The Fairmont Empress2. Delta Victoria Ocean Pointe

Resort & Spa3. Hotel Grand Pacific

Best Barbershop 1. Status Barbershop2. Victory Barber Shop3. Jimmy’s Barbershop

Best Spa 1. Academy Spa2. Willow Stream Spa at The

Fairmont Empress3. Santé Spa

Best Manicure/Pedicure 1. Deco De Mode2. Willow Stream Spa at The

Fairmont Empress3. Santé Spa

Best Hair Salon 1. Lab Hair Salon 2. Shampoo3. Fish Hair Salon

Best Shoe Repair 1. Stevenson’s Shoe Clinic2. Oak Bay Cobbler3. Arcadia Shoe Repair

Best Pharmacy 1. London Drugs2. Shoppers Drug Mart3. Pharmasave

Best For Photo Finishing 1. London Drugs2. Walmart3. Costco

AS VOTED BY THE READERS OF VICTORIA NEWS, OAK BAY NEWS, SAANICH NEWS AND GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE, MAY 2014

� e Best of the City 2014 Results

2014

YEAR

20th

CityVICTORIA NEWS

Bestofthe

Voted

Best Place For Picture Framing 1. Michaels2. Island Blue3. Opus Framing & Art Supplies3. Blacks

Best Custom Home Builder 1. Abstract Developments2. Villamar Construction3. Citta3. M Knight

Best Tattoo/Piercing Parlour 1. Urge Tattoos2. Government St Tattoos3. Universal Tattoo

Best Tire Store 1. Kal Tire 2. Canadian Tire 3. Big O Tires

Best Automotive Service (Chain)1. Canadian Tire 2. Midas 3. Budget Brake and Muffler

Best Automotive Service (Independent)1. Searles Auto Repair 2. Trackside Auto Service Ltd. 3. Galaxy Motors

Best Place To Improve Your Smile1. Academy Dental 2. Mayfair Dental3. Hillside Centre

Best Public Washroom 1. The Bay Centre2. Hillside Mall3. Cactus Club

Best Pet Clinic 1. Hillside Veterinary Hospital2. McKenzie Veterinary Services3. Juan de Fuca Veterinary Clinic

Best Condo Development 1. Dockside Green2. Union3. Bayview3. Uptown

Best Retirement Residence 1. Berwick Retirement Communities2. The Wellesley3. Amica Somerset

Best of the City Summ

er 2014 • 29

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Parks 250.475.5522 | Cedar Hill Golf 250.475.7150 | Cedar Hill 250.475.7121 | Gordon Head 250.475.7100 | GR Pearkes 250.475.5400 | Commonwealth Place 250.475.7600

We’re on top of the world!Thank you Greater Victoria, for nominating us for Best of the City

• Best Urban Hiking Trail (Mt. Doug)

• Best Swimming Pool (Saanich Commonwealth Place)

• Best Recreation Centre (Saanich Commonwealth Place)

Your valued opinion drives our commitment higher to help you be a healthier, happier you!

2014

YEAR

20th

CityVICTORIA NEWS

Bestofthe

Voted

1

2014

YEAR

20th

CityVICTORIA NEWS

Bestofthe

Voted

2

2014

YEAR

20th

CityVICTORIA NEWS

Bestofthe

Voted

1

Saanich Parks & Recreation

Best For Produce 1. The Root Cellar Village Green

Grocer2. Red Barn Market3. Thrifty Foods

Best Organic Grocer 1. The Root Cellar

Village Green Grocer2. Red Barn Market3. Lifestyles Market3. Planet Organic

Best Bakery 1. COBS Bread2. The Dutch Bakery3. Foi Epi

Best Specialty Deli 1. Italian Food Imports 2. Red Barn Market 3. The Root Cellar Village Green

Grocer

Best Local Brewery/Winery1. Phillips 2. Hoyne Brewing Company 3. Spinnakers Gastro Brewpub

Best Wine Store1. Everything Wine 2. Cascadia 3. BC Liquor Stores

Best For Making Your Own Wine1. The Winemaker 2. Blanshard St. Winery3. Cook Street Village Wineworks

Best U Brew 1. Bedford Brewing Company2. West Coast Brew Shop3. Stellar Wines

Service

Best Hotel 1. The Fairmont Empress2. Delta Victoria Ocean Pointe

Resort & Spa3. Hotel Grand Pacific

Best Barbershop 1. Status Barbershop2. Victory Barber Shop3. Jimmy’s Barbershop

Best Spa 1. Academy Spa2. Willow Stream Spa at The

Fairmont Empress3. Santé Spa

Best Manicure/Pedicure 1. Deco De Mode2. Willow Stream Spa at The

Fairmont Empress3. Santé Spa

Best Hair Salon 1. Lab Hair Salon 2. Shampoo3. Fish Hair Salon

Best Shoe Repair 1. Stevenson’s Shoe Clinic2. Oak Bay Cobbler3. Arcadia Shoe Repair

Best Pharmacy 1. London Drugs2. Shoppers Drug Mart3. Pharmasave

Best For Photo Finishing 1. London Drugs2. Walmart3. Costco

AS VOTED BY THE READERS OF VICTORIA NEWS, OAK BAY NEWS, SAANICH NEWS AND GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE, MAY 2014

� e Best of the City 2014 Results

2014

YEAR

20th

CityVICTORIA NEWS

Bestofthe

Voted

Best Place For Picture Framing 1. Michaels2. Island Blue3. Opus Framing & Art Supplies3. Blacks

Best Custom Home Builder 1. Abstract Developments2. Villamar Construction3. Citta3. M Knight

Best Tattoo/Piercing Parlour 1. Urge Tattoos2. Government St Tattoos3. Universal Tattoo

Best Tire Store 1. Kal Tire 2. Canadian Tire 3. Big O Tires

Best Automotive Service (Chain)1. Canadian Tire 2. Midas 3. Budget Brake and Muffler

Best Automotive Service (Independent)1. Searles Auto Repair 2. Trackside Auto Service Ltd. 3. Galaxy Motors

Best Place To Improve Your Smile1. Academy Dental 2. Mayfair Dental3. Hillside Centre

Best Public Washroom 1. The Bay Centre2. Hillside Mall3. Cactus Club

Best Pet Clinic 1. Hillside Veterinary Hospital2. McKenzie Veterinary Services3. Juan de Fuca Veterinary Clinic

Best Condo Development 1. Dockside Green2. Union3. Bayview3. Uptown

Best Retirement Residence 1. Berwick Retirement Communities2. The Wellesley3. Amica Somerset

30 •

Best

of th

e City

Sum

mer

2014

BigheartedVictoria A-Z

A Archie Courtnall - Namesake of the Archie Courtnall Emergency

Mental Health Centre, boosted by the Courtnall family including NHL stars Russ and Geoff.

B Bob Skene -Volunteers his time with numerous organizations including

Royal Roads University, the Victoria Airport Authority and the Greater Victoria Hospital Society.

C Jamie Cassels - The UVic president is active in many community organizations

including the Continuing Legal Education Society, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Canada and the United Way.

D Dean Norris- Jones - As Reynolds High school vice-principal, he leads

students in community spirit. Defeating thyroid cancer more than 10 years ago, he sparked a steamroller that saw students raise more than $100,000 for the Canadian Cancer Society Tour de Rock last year alone.

E Jeneece Edroff - The now teenage Edroff started a penny drive to help Variety,

The Children’s Charity at age seven. By the time she was 14 she had raised more than $1 million.

F David Foster - The David Foster Foundation provides � nancial support to

Canadian families with children undergoing life-saving organ transplants. Over the past 25 years the foundation has helped more than 700 families and provided millions

of dollars in direct support.

G Rebecca Grant - The UVic professor and author has been involved with

the United Way since 2002, has chaired the Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce, the University Club board and volunteers with Ballet Victoria.

H Fiona Hyslop -Spent six years on the board of the Victoria Foundation, has

been chair of the board of the NEED Crisis line and a board member of Paci� c Opera Victoria and  the Victoria Business and Professional Women’s Club.

I Intercultural Association of Greater Victoria - ICA offers services for immigrant

and refugee newcomers, provides outreach and education through arts and community development workshops on anti-racism, diversity awareness and human rights.

J Jawl brothers - Jawl Industries was formed in 1964 by brothers, Robert,

Karnel, Sohan and Mohan Jawl. The family has supported numerous community projects including the creation of Cecilia Cove Park and the donation of Lochside Park to the city of Saanich.

K Keith Dagg - Dagg is a huge booster of Victoria and made a name for

himself as a volunteer quick to lend his name and support to a variety of causes. Dagg helped bring the successful 2005 and 2013 World Men’s Curling Championships to town.

L Ron Lou-Poy - An active member of the community, he is a proponent of the

McPherson Foundation, Victoria Police Board, Victoria Chinese community, and the Royal British Columbia Museum. He was made a member of the Order of Canada in 2003.

M Mel Cooper - His community leadership for events such as the

Victoria Commonwealth Games contributed to his receiving both the Order of Canada and the Order of British Columbia.

N Naz Rayani - A champion of philanthropy and a community leader

who helped bring the Partnership Walk to Victoria to increase public awareness about global poverty and to help raise funds to support

Third World economic development programs by the Aga Khan Foundation Canada.

O Rev. Tom Oshiro - Oshiro is a staunch supporter of business,

directed camp ministries and built a retreat centre. He was awarded Citizen of the Year for Victoria in 2002 and a Leadership Victoria Lifetime Achievement Award in 2010.

P Power to Be - Power To Be Adventure Therapy inspires youth and families in need

of support to discover their limitless abilities through nature-based programs.

Q Queen Alexandra Centre for children - Now the Children’s

Health Foundation of Vancouver Island, it raises funds for facilities, services and urgently needed medical equipment to support the health and well-being of children and youth on Vancouver Island and the Gulf Islands.

R Rudi Hoenson - Through the Rudi and Sylvia Hoenson Foundation, he

has donated more than $3 million to charity. His generosity has bene� tted the Victoria Hospital Foundation, the Saanich Peninsula Hospital, B.C. Children’s Hospital and his fellow veterans at the Lodge at Broadmead.

S Sandra Richardson - The Victoria Foundation CEO has a distinguished career as

a fundraising professional. She was invited to enter the Sovereign Order of St. John of Jerusalem and is recipient of the Royal Roads University Community Leadership Award, UVic Distinguished Alumni Award and Rotary Community Leadership Award.

T Ted Hughes - The former deputy attorney general has acted as chair for

various hospital boards and health-care organizations. He actively advocates for the Victoria homeless, acting previously with the mayor

of Victoria as co-chair of the Greater Victoria Coalition to End Homelessness.

U United Way - United Way is a collective of individuals and

organizations working to build community. With its partners, volunteers, donors, business and government it improves the social conditions and well-being of individuals, families and neighbourhoods.

V Victoria Hospice - Nurses, counsellors, spiritual caregivers, physicians and

more than 300 trained volunteers provide comfort for patients and support for families, rather than a cure for progressive and life-limiting illness. It offers bereavement support to families for up to a year following a death.

W Women in Need - The Victoria Women In Need Community

Cooperative supports women in their journey between crisis and wellness. Revenue from its three Resale shops, along with � nancial donations, covers the cost of running the nonpro� t and funding empowerment programs for women.

X Xtra-ordinary - From running races and cycling treks, tax preparation,

driving, answering phones, giving blood, organizing events, gardening to rescuing animals, Greater Victoria residents know how to go the extra mile helping more than 300 local registered non pro� t organizations.

Y YMCA - The YMCA-YWCA of Greater Victoria has a rich 135 year history in our

community. With a focus on youth development, healthy living and social responsibility, it nurtures the potential of kids and teens, improves the community’s health and provides opportunities to give back.

Z Zane Zarzour - This Chief, Division of Orthopaedic Surgery: Vancouver Island

Health Authority - South Island and clinical lecturer at UBC and UVic also supports minor hockey and grew a ‘stache for Movember. Plus he’s got three Zs in his name – winner!

with children undergoing life-saving organ transplants. Over the past 25 years the foundation has helped more than 700 families and provided millions

Brooke Harris, Avril Matthews and Jeremy Pott are brave enough to take a pie in the face for a fundraiser. Below, read what other Victorians are doing.

A+

517 Kelvin Rd • SearlesAuto.ca

Don’t TrustYour Vehicleto JustAnyone.Anyone.

250.475.2000

Thank YouVictoria!2

014

YEAR

20th

CityVICTORIA NEWS

Bestofthe

Voted

1

517 Kelvin Rd • SearlesAuto.ca

Best Weight Loss Centre 1. Weight Watchers2. Curves3. Dr. Bernstein Diet & Health

Clinics

Best Bank/Financial Institution1. Coast Capital Savings 2. TD Canada Trust 3. RBC Royal Bank

Best For Insurance1. Coast Capital Savings 2. Megson FitzPatrick3. Hub Barton International

Best Storage1. Adams Storage 2. U-Haul 3. U-Pak

Best Moving1. 2 Burley Men 2. U-Haul 3. 2 Small Men3. A-B Moving

Recreation

Favorite Local Sports Team1. Victoria Royals 2. Victoria Rebels2. Victoria HarbourCats3. Victoria Highlanders

Best Yoga Studio 1. Moksha Yoga Victoria2. Bikram Yoga3. Hudson Yoga

Best Rec Centre 1. Recreation Oak Bay2. Saanich Commonwealth Place3. Juan de Fuca Recreation Centre

Best Gym/Fitness Studio 1. Studio 4 Athletics2. YMCA-YWCA of Greater Victoria3. Merge Combat & Fitness

AS VOTED BY THE READERS OF VICTORIA NEWS, OAK BAY NEWS, SAANICH NEWS AND GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE, MAY 2014

� e Best of the City 2014 Results

Best 18-Hole Golf Course1. The Course at Cordova Bay 2. Bear Mountain3. Olympic View Golf Club

Best Golf Course1. Bear Mountain 2. The Ridge Course at Cordova Bay3. Uplands Golf Club

Best Swimming Pool 1. Saanich Commonwealth Place2. Recreation Oak Bay3. Crystal Pool & Fitness Centre

Best For Martial Arts 1. Merge Combat & Fitness2. Zuma3. Fierce Studio

2014

YEAR

20th

CityVICTORIA NEWS

Bestofthe

Voted

Best of the City Summ

er 2014 • 31

BigheartedVictoria A-Z

A Archie Courtnall - Namesake of the Archie Courtnall Emergency

Mental Health Centre, boosted by the Courtnall family including NHL stars Russ and Geoff.

B Bob Skene -Volunteers his time with numerous organizations including

Royal Roads University, the Victoria Airport Authority and the Greater Victoria Hospital Society.

C Jamie Cassels - The UVic president is active in many community organizations

including the Continuing Legal Education Society, Big Brothers Big Sisters of Canada and the United Way.

D Dean Norris- Jones - As Reynolds High school vice-principal, he leads

students in community spirit. Defeating thyroid cancer more than 10 years ago, he sparked a steamroller that saw students raise more than $100,000 for the Canadian Cancer Society Tour de Rock last year alone.

E Jeneece Edroff - The now teenage Edroff started a penny drive to help Variety,

The Children’s Charity at age seven. By the time she was 14 she had raised more than $1 million.

F David Foster - The David Foster Foundation provides � nancial support to

Canadian families with children undergoing life-saving organ transplants. Over the past 25 years the foundation has helped more than 700 families and provided millions

of dollars in direct support.

G Rebecca Grant - The UVic professor and author has been involved with

the United Way since 2002, has chaired the Greater Victoria Chamber of Commerce, the University Club board and volunteers with Ballet Victoria.

H Fiona Hyslop -Spent six years on the board of the Victoria Foundation, has

been chair of the board of the NEED Crisis line and a board member of Paci� c Opera Victoria and  the Victoria Business and Professional Women’s Club.

I Intercultural Association of Greater Victoria - ICA offers services for immigrant

and refugee newcomers, provides outreach and education through arts and community development workshops on anti-racism, diversity awareness and human rights.

J Jawl brothers - Jawl Industries was formed in 1964 by brothers, Robert,

Karnel, Sohan and Mohan Jawl. The family has supported numerous community projects including the creation of Cecilia Cove Park and the donation of Lochside Park to the city of Saanich.

K Keith Dagg - Dagg is a huge booster of Victoria and made a name for

himself as a volunteer quick to lend his name and support to a variety of causes. Dagg helped bring the successful 2005 and 2013 World Men’s Curling Championships to town.

L Ron Lou-Poy - An active member of the community, he is a proponent of the

McPherson Foundation, Victoria Police Board, Victoria Chinese community, and the Royal British Columbia Museum. He was made a member of the Order of Canada in 2003.

M Mel Cooper - His community leadership for events such as the

Victoria Commonwealth Games contributed to his receiving both the Order of Canada and the Order of British Columbia.

N Naz Rayani - A champion of philanthropy and a community leader

who helped bring the Partnership Walk to Victoria to increase public awareness about global poverty and to help raise funds to support

Third World economic development programs by the Aga Khan Foundation Canada.

O Rev. Tom Oshiro - Oshiro is a staunch supporter of business,

directed camp ministries and built a retreat centre. He was awarded Citizen of the Year for Victoria in 2002 and a Leadership Victoria Lifetime Achievement Award in 2010.

P Power to Be - Power To Be Adventure Therapy inspires youth and families in need

of support to discover their limitless abilities through nature-based programs.

Q Queen Alexandra Centre for children - Now the Children’s

Health Foundation of Vancouver Island, it raises funds for facilities, services and urgently needed medical equipment to support the health and well-being of children and youth on Vancouver Island and the Gulf Islands.

R Rudi Hoenson - Through the Rudi and Sylvia Hoenson Foundation, he

has donated more than $3 million to charity. His generosity has bene� tted the Victoria Hospital Foundation, the Saanich Peninsula Hospital, B.C. Children’s Hospital and his fellow veterans at the Lodge at Broadmead.

S Sandra Richardson - The Victoria Foundation CEO has a distinguished career as

a fundraising professional. She was invited to enter the Sovereign Order of St. John of Jerusalem and is recipient of the Royal Roads University Community Leadership Award, UVic Distinguished Alumni Award and Rotary Community Leadership Award.

T Ted Hughes - The former deputy attorney general has acted as chair for

various hospital boards and health-care organizations. He actively advocates for the Victoria homeless, acting previously with the mayor

of Victoria as co-chair of the Greater Victoria Coalition to End Homelessness.

U United Way - United Way is a collective of individuals and

organizations working to build community. With its partners, volunteers, donors, business and government it improves the social conditions and well-being of individuals, families and neighbourhoods.

V Victoria Hospice - Nurses, counsellors, spiritual caregivers, physicians and

more than 300 trained volunteers provide comfort for patients and support for families, rather than a cure for progressive and life-limiting illness. It offers bereavement support to families for up to a year following a death.

W Women in Need - The Victoria Women In Need Community

Cooperative supports women in their journey between crisis and wellness. Revenue from its three Resale shops, along with � nancial donations, covers the cost of running the nonpro� t and funding empowerment programs for women.

X Xtra-ordinary - From running races and cycling treks, tax preparation,

driving, answering phones, giving blood, organizing events, gardening to rescuing animals, Greater Victoria residents know how to go the extra mile helping more than 300 local registered non pro� t organizations.

Y YMCA - The YMCA-YWCA of Greater Victoria has a rich 135 year history in our

community. With a focus on youth development, healthy living and social responsibility, it nurtures the potential of kids and teens, improves the community’s health and provides opportunities to give back.

Z Zane Zarzour - This Chief, Division of Orthopaedic Surgery: Vancouver Island

Health Authority - South Island and clinical lecturer at UBC and UVic also supports minor hockey and grew a ‘stache for Movember. Plus he’s got three Zs in his name – winner!

with children undergoing life-saving organ transplants. Over the past 25 years the foundation has helped more than 700 families and provided millions

Brooke Harris, Avril Matthews and Jeremy Pott are brave enough to take a pie in the face for a fundraiser. Below, read what other Victorians are doing.

A+

Best Weight Loss Centre 1. Weight Watchers2. Curves3. Dr. Bernstein Diet & Health

Clinics

Best Bank/Financial Institution1. Coast Capital Savings 2. TD Canada Trust 3. RBC Royal Bank

Best For Insurance1. Coast Capital Savings 2. Megson FitzPatrick3. Hub Barton International

Best Storage1. Adams Storage 2. U-Haul 3. U-Pak

Best Moving1. 2 Burley Men 2. U-Haul 3. 2 Small Men3. A-B Moving

Recreation

Favorite Local Sports Team1. Victoria Royals 2. Victoria Rebels2. Victoria HarbourCats3. Victoria Highlanders

Best Yoga Studio 1. Moksha Yoga Victoria2. Bikram Yoga3. Hudson Yoga

Best Rec Centre 1. Recreation Oak Bay2. Saanich Commonwealth Place3. Juan de Fuca Recreation Centre

Best Gym/Fitness Studio 1. Studio 4 Athletics2. YMCA-YWCA of Greater Victoria3. Merge Combat & Fitness

AS VOTED BY THE READERS OF VICTORIA NEWS, OAK BAY NEWS, SAANICH NEWS AND GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE, MAY 2014

� e Best of the City 2014 Results

Best 18-Hole Golf Course1. The Course at Cordova Bay 2. Bear Mountain3. Olympic View Golf Club

Best Golf Course1. Bear Mountain 2. The Ridge Course at Cordova Bay3. Uplands Golf Club

Best Swimming Pool 1. Saanich Commonwealth Place2. Recreation Oak Bay3. Crystal Pool & Fitness Centre

Best For Martial Arts 1. Merge Combat & Fitness2. Zuma3. Fierce Studio

2014

YEAR

20th

CityVICTORIA NEWS

Bestofthe

Voted

32 •

Best

of th

e City

Sum

mer

2014

It’s been a busy year for Victory Barber & Brand owner Matthew Conrad.

Recently named Canadian Men’s Hairdresser of the Year and Schwarzkopf Professional’s global ambassador for men’s grooming, Matthew has had the opportunity to share Victory’s message, skills and successes, teaching and learn-ing from others around the world as he travels the globe sharing his passion for his trade. Thrilled to share those experiences, Matthew and his team of talented barbers have been called upon as Details Magazine’s go-to men’s groom-ing experts. And, like tattoo artists share their expertise with others in the field, in this spirit Victory has launched a guest artist series, where some of the world’s best barbers and men’s stylists share their talents with the Victory fam-ily. “It’s very supportive. They work in our shop, side by side; we learn from them and they learn from us,” Matthew explains.

Located downtown at the Atrium Building, Victory is at its essence a men’s-only heritage barbershop, paying hom-age to the attitudes and attributes of generations-old barber-ing traditions while still being very much current for today. Visitors are struck at once by the masculine appeal of the place, with its painstakingly restored vintage barber chairs, the weathered wood floors, chalkboard signs, and grooming products crafted with men only in mind.

Today enjoying his third Best of the City nomination in as many years since their 2011 opening, “we didn’t know it at the time, but we were starting this revolution in men’s grooming. It really has made Victoria this little launching pad for new market barbering.”

Matthew also continues to develop Victory’s own line of traditional shaving products and tools. The success of their Old Faithful Moustache Wax & Beard Balm and the critical success of the Sparrows Beard Oil has prompted the development of three new products to be launched this year. Classic Shaving Cream, Gentlemen’s Post Shave and Prohibition Pomade are being manufactured in Canada with a focus on naturally grown and locally sourced ingredients..

In contrast to Victory’s heritage feel is the very 21st century spread of its message – Facebook, Twitter and Insta-gram postings have shared far and wide Matthew’s passion for indulging tradi-tional, masculine men’s grooming, from the perfect haircut to popular services like straight razor shaving. This innova-tive nature of creating international suc-cess and recognition from right here on Vancouver Island isn’t lost on Matthew.

“It’s made doing something at a world-class level in Victo-ria possible; we are every bit as good as anywhere else on earth,” he says.

Yet at the heart of Victory’s success is its strong understanding of “who we are and what we are trying to do, and not wavering from that,” he reflects. Quite simply, as they say in the shop, “Keep it Handsome!”

Victory keeps it handsome, one man at a time BEST of the CITY FINALIST BUSINESS PROFILE: Victory Barber and Brand

ADVERTISING FEATURE

From left: Crystal Currie, Joshua Sparrow, Gabe Waite, Doug Macniell, Paul Huxtable and Aahmes Deshutter at Matthew Conrad’s men’s only heritage-style barbershop.

www.victorybarbers.com

Victory Barber and Brand1315 Blanshard St. at Yates in the Atrium • 250.381.1522

2014

YEAR

20th

CityVICTORIA NEWS

Bestofthe

Voted

Best Barbershop

The sun is out, the weekend is here and the only question left to answer is: which way to the beach? With so many options for beautiful beaches in Victoria, it’s worth a little planning before you pack the picnic to get the most out of a day at the beach.

“With beaches from Clover Point to Island View to world-renowned China Beach, visitors and locals alike enjoy Greater Victoria’s natural scenery and unique experiences,” says Paul Nursey, president and CEO of Tourism Victoria.

Tourism Victoria’s top coastal stops for a day at the beach? It all depends on what you’re looking for. If it’s a party – family-friendly parties, that is – the team over at the information hub will likely send you and the kids to Cadboro-Gyro Park at Cadboro Bay in Saanich. The beach is a classic stop for its size, sand, park amenities – and fabled presence

of the Cadborosaurus. Despite checking in with our local cryptozoologist on the beat over the years, we cannot confirm the presence of a sea creature, but we can vouch for how easy it is to pass the entire day at Gyro, with plenty of opportunities to refuel with Cadboro Bay Village next door. For a beach bum in search of a little more seclusion, we suggest venturing further down Cadboro Bay Road to various public accesses past Ten Mile Point.

Is the warmer water of a lake more

of a draw? Tourism Victoria suggests View Royal’s Thetis Lake as their top in-land beach destination. While the beach area does tend to get fairly busy on a hot day, there are plenty of shoreline hideouts around the pathway that usually offer a little more privacy.

The overall winner according to Tourism Victoria? Oak Bay’s Willows Beach. Even if Willows didn’t come along with lush park space and the Kiwanis Tea Room, we would agree. It’s just a beautiful place to be.

Tourism Victoria says Oak Bay’s Willows Beach is the most popular beach among visitors and locals in the summertime.

33 •

Best

of th

e City

Sum

mer

2014

Sand and suntans

Life’s a beach

Saanich’s Cadboro Bay Beach is always packed with people when the sun is shining.

Dine inside or on our heated patio

126 DOUGLAS STREETDrive In Restaurant

B

e

a

c

o

n

Serving up smiles since 1958

B

e

a

c

o

n

Serving up smiles since 1958

250.385.7521WWW.BEACONDRIVEIN.CA Check us out on:

20

12

YEAR

18th

CityVICTORIA NEWS

Bestofthe

Voted

1

2013

YEAR

19th

CityVICTORIA NEWS

Bestofthe

Voted

1

2014

YEAR

20th

CityVICTORIA NEWS

Bestofthe

Voted

1

open year round

Juan de FucaVeterinary Clinic

Where compassionate care meets state-of-the-art medicine

250-478-0422117-2244 Sooke Road, Victoria, BC. V9B 1X1

Best of the City Summ

er 2014 • 33

The sun is out, the weekend is here and the only question left to answer is: which way to the beach? With so many options for beautiful beaches in Victoria, it’s worth a little planning before you pack the picnic to get the most out of a day at the beach.

“With beaches from Clover Point to Island View to world-renowned China Beach, visitors and locals alike enjoy Greater Victoria’s natural scenery and unique experiences,” says Paul Nursey, president and CEO of Tourism Victoria.

Tourism Victoria’s top coastal stops for a day at the beach? It all depends on what you’re looking for. If it’s a party – family-friendly parties, that is – the team over at the information hub will likely send you and the kids to Cadboro-Gyro Park at Cadboro Bay in Saanich. The beach is a classic stop for its size, sand, park amenities – and fabled presence

of the Cadborosaurus. Despite checking in with our local cryptozoologist on the beat over the years, we cannot confirm the presence of a sea creature, but we can vouch for how easy it is to pass the entire day at Gyro, with plenty of opportunities to refuel with Cadboro Bay Village next door. For a beach bum in search of a little more seclusion, we suggest venturing further down Cadboro Bay Road to various public accesses past Ten Mile Point.

Is the warmer water of a lake more

of a draw? Tourism Victoria suggests View Royal’s Thetis Lake as their top in-land beach destination. While the beach area does tend to get fairly busy on a hot day, there are plenty of shoreline hideouts around the pathway that usually offer a little more privacy.

The overall winner according to Tourism Victoria? Oak Bay’s Willows Beach. Even if Willows didn’t come along with lush park space and the Kiwanis Tea Room, we would agree. It’s just a beautiful place to be.

Tourism Victoria says Oak Bay’s Willows Beach is the most popular beach among visitors and locals in the summertime.

33 •

Best

of th

e City

Sum

mer

2014

Sand and suntans

Life’s a beach

Saanich’s Cadboro Bay Beach is always packed with people when the sun is shining.

VICTORIA3400 DOUGLAS ST250.475.2561mclarenlighting.com

2014

YEAR

20th

CityVICTORIA NEWS

Bestofthe

Voted

1

For over 50 years we have served the community as a family owned and operated

business.

We have the largest selection and inventory of lighting on Vancouver Island with showrooms in

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for the past 5 years running inVictoria's & Nanaimo's

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34 •

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10 •

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There’s fun for kids of all ages at Oak Bay’s annual Tea Party celebrations. The family-fun event takes centre stage in June.

Email ilterrazzo@shaw.ca Website: itlerrazoo.com

555 Johnson Street, Victoria250-361-0028

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R I S T O R A N T E

2014

YEAR

20th

CityVICTORIA NEWS

Bestofthe

Voted

1

When Leslie Belzberg visited Victoria last fall, she didn’t hit up the usual tourist traps. While she did check out our beautiful beaches and cliffsides, she also wanted to see Oak Bay Avenue, some residential neigh-bourhoods and a trailer park.

Belzberg, senior vice-president of scripted production for Shine Amer-ica, the studio that produces Grace-point, says Greater Victoria wound up being a great location to film the 10-part mini-series for FOX.

“(Lead actor) David Tennant’s availability between February and May, and the show was a summer show, meant we needed to find a temperate climate,” she says. “Given the time of year we could shoot, we were looking for something that didn’t have a winter, so it limited the number of places we could have gone. Nobody bought my vote for Hawaii.”

The Hawaiian Islands’ loss was certainly Vancouver Island’s gain.

“We needed to find all the things that exist inside the Gracepoint story,” Belzberg says.

Over the course of the four-month shoot, scenes for Gracepoint were filmed in Sidney, Saanich,

Fernwood, along Dallas Road and at Esquimalt Lagoon, too.

“We were shooting Victoria for the Pacific Northwest, so when peo-ple watch I think they’ll recognize their neighbourhoods,” Belzberg says. “We used what was very much

a part of the towns and areas that we shot in; it made feel somewhat more indigenous to what we needed for selling our town.”

Kathleen Gilbert, film commis-sioner for the Vancouver Island South Film and Media Commission,

says Gracepoint didn’t film at a lot of Greater Victoria’s more popular filming locations (like Hatley Castle at Royal Roads University, Bastion Square and Chinatown), but it’s a positive that our region has such a variety of locations to offer film and TV productions.

“I’d like to say how grateful we are they chose us,” Gilbert says. “We’re looking forward to providing them with the opportunity to come and do season two here.”

Gracepoint tells the story of the investigation into a boy’s murder in a small California town. The show is set to air on FOX in the fall.

35 •

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Oak Bay Avenue, among other Greater Victoria sites, was transformed into Gracepoint, a fictional town at the centre of a new TV show of the same name.

Greater Victoria on the small screenLights, camera, action

Where they shootThe most popular filming locations in Greater Victoria:

• Royal Roads University• Craigdarroch Castle• Chinatown• Bastion Square• Fisgard Lighthouse• Inner Harbour• B.C. Legislature• Fairmont Empress hotel

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Best of the City Summ

er 2014 • 35

Downtown Auto Centre

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UP TO

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19th

CityVICTORIA NEWS

Bestofthe

Voted

B

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Big O Tires Victoria is the largest Victoria BC wheel and tire retailer on Vancouver Island and the largest volume Big O franchise dealer in Canada, with over 7000 sq.ft. of building and a supporting wholesale warehouse.

With over 18 years at our location in Downtown Victoria, we know our market. Our team will provide the BEST product for the BEST price. At Big O Tires Victoria, we pride ourselves on providing top notch Victoria BC auto repair service.

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UP TO

Downtown Auto Centre250.384.7477 • 1319 QUADRAwww.bigotiresvictoria.com

BETWEEN YATES & JOHNSON

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CityVICTORIA NEWS

Bestofthe

Voted

B

EST TIRE STORE

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When Leslie Belzberg visited Victoria last fall, she didn’t hit up the usual tourist traps. While she did check out our beautiful beaches and cliffsides, she also wanted to see Oak Bay Avenue, some residential neigh-bourhoods and a trailer park.

Belzberg, senior vice-president of scripted production for Shine Amer-ica, the studio that produces Grace-point, says Greater Victoria wound up being a great location to film the 10-part mini-series for FOX.

“(Lead actor) David Tennant’s availability between February and May, and the show was a summer show, meant we needed to find a temperate climate,” she says. “Given the time of year we could shoot, we were looking for something that didn’t have a winter, so it limited the number of places we could have gone. Nobody bought my vote for Hawaii.”

The Hawaiian Islands’ loss was certainly Vancouver Island’s gain.

“We needed to find all the things that exist inside the Gracepoint story,” Belzberg says.

Over the course of the four-month shoot, scenes for Gracepoint were filmed in Sidney, Saanich,

Fernwood, along Dallas Road and at Esquimalt Lagoon, too.

“We were shooting Victoria for the Pacific Northwest, so when peo-ple watch I think they’ll recognize their neighbourhoods,” Belzberg says. “We used what was very much

a part of the towns and areas that we shot in; it made feel somewhat more indigenous to what we needed for selling our town.”

Kathleen Gilbert, film commis-sioner for the Vancouver Island South Film and Media Commission,

says Gracepoint didn’t film at a lot of Greater Victoria’s more popular filming locations (like Hatley Castle at Royal Roads University, Bastion Square and Chinatown), but it’s a positive that our region has such a variety of locations to offer film and TV productions.

“I’d like to say how grateful we are they chose us,” Gilbert says. “We’re looking forward to providing them with the opportunity to come and do season two here.”

Gracepoint tells the story of the investigation into a boy’s murder in a small California town. The show is set to air on FOX in the fall.

35 •

Best

of th

e City

Sum

mer

2014

Oak Bay Avenue, among other Greater Victoria sites, was transformed into Gracepoint, a fictional town at the centre of a new TV show of the same name.

Greater Victoria on the small screenLights, camera, action

Where they shootThe most popular filming locations in Greater Victoria:

• Royal Roads University• Craigdarroch Castle• Chinatown• Bastion Square• Fisgard Lighthouse• Inner Harbour• B.C. Legislature• Fairmont Empress hotel

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2014

YEAR

20th

CityVICTORIA NEWS

Bestofthe

Voted

1

36 •

Best

of th

e City

Sum

mer

2014

SeaFirst Insurance Brokers has the Greater Victoria area covered! With offices in the Westshore, Oak Bay, Brentwood, Saanichton, Sidney, and the Islands, we are where you are. Specializing in individualized service for your Personal and Commercial Insurance needs: drop by today to see what we can do for you!

Brentwood Bay 250-652-1141 Saanichton 250-652-5157Sidney 250-656-9886 Westshore 250-478-9110Oak Bay 250-592-5544 Salt Spring 250-537-5527Pender Island 250-629-3789

www.seafirstinsurance.com

Best of the City Summ

er 2014 • 37

Sixty-five-year-old Tomiko Ludwig says participating in hot yoga helps keep her feeling healthy.

37 •

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Senior picture of healthWhen 65-year-old Tomiko

Ludwig was considering moving to Victoria three years ago, she needed to know one thing about the city before packing her bags.

“There had to be hot yoga,” says Ludwig, drenched in morning sunlight inside the lobby of her favourite yoga studio, Hudson Yoga on Douglas Street. “To me, yoga is hot yoga. When I finish 90 minutes of hot yoga, I feel that I’ve done a day’s worth of exercise. It gives me great health.”

Hot yoga, a.k.a. Bikram yoga, is an offshoot of traditional yoga that is practised in a room heated to about 40 degrees Celsius. Classes usually run 90 minutes, and consist of a series of 26 individual postures.

Ludwig has always been committed to an active lifestyle. When she moved from Japan to Vancouver in 1971 (around the same time that Bikram yoga was steadily gaining popularity in the west) she dedicated a portion of each day to maintaining her physical fitness.

“Do you know what the Grouse Grind is?” asks Ludwig with a beaming smile. “You go up and

down Grouse Mountain. Usually people take two hours to do it, but I used to do it in 50 minutes.”

Ludwig believes that hot yoga is the perfect exercise for seniors. For years, regular tennis matches and golf were part of the weekly routine, but these days a touch of arthritis has made those sports a little less enjoyable. For her, hot yoga has no downside, no drawbacks.

“Sometimes, when I wake up in the morning I feel tired, but by the time I finish doing yoga I feel great!”

Ludwig is loved by all at Hudson Yoga. The staff adore her and say she is a an irreplaceable part

of morning classes.“We love her so much,” says

Danielle Chevalier at the Hudson Yoga front desk. “She’s a breath of fresh air.”

“She comes every day,” says Lisette Shortt, a Hudson instructor. “She’s a beacon of positive energy.”

Along with hot yoga and constant exercise, Ludwig fills her days with games like mah-jong and bridge, and this summer she says she’s taking up another physical hobby.

“I’m going to be in the dragon boat races!”

Elder exercise

When I finish 90 minutes of hot yoga I feel

that I’ve done a day’s worth of exercise. It gives me great health.

>>

What makes this WBU Hummingbird Feeder The Best In The City?

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The Staff and Management of Burnside Home Hardware are wonderfully happy for the showing of affection from our terrific customers. We appreciate all the love and support you have given us. We will do our very best to continue to show you we care. We are proud to be a locally owned Canadian company and strive to show our community support, thank you for showing yours!

Front row: Allan, Terry, James, Rita, Gordon Back Row: Daniella, Ken, Laurie, Dave, Josh, Frank, Ken, Jamie, Bill, Robert

50 Burnside Rd W, Victoria, • 250. 382.4663

2014

YEAR

20th

CityVICTORIA NEWS

Bestofthe

Voted

38 •

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of th

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2014

Creativity, customer care key to Urge Studios success BEST of the CITY FINALIST BUSINESS PROFILE: Urge Studios

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Visit Urge Studios at:1026 Cook Street or online at: www.urgetattoos.comor call: (250) 380 2989

to book your appointment.

Since creating its fi rst one-of-a-kind tattoo 20 years ago, Urge Studios has earned a well-deserved reputation as one of the Best in the City for its distinctive works of art, backed by an emphasis on quality workmanship and customer care.

Founded in 1995 by a group of friends who had served together in the Canadian army, Urge continues

to honour that military tradition today. At

the same time, owner Sparky Adamson has

welcomed the massive shift that

has taken body art into the mainstream – a

clientele that in the ‘90s featured primarily soldiers and rockers, today

includes everyone from athletes to professionals to grandparents.

“All of our early clients have now had kids who grew up with the idea of tattooing, and I think because it has become more mainstream, people have realized it’s safe when it’s done in the right environment and can be a unique, artistic expression of themselves without a negative stigma to it,” Sparky says, pointing to one recent client who came in with her daughter to get tattoos for her 90th birthday.

“Often it’s something they’ve wanted to do for a long time.”

Sparky, who started under the original owners shortly after opening, recognizes the importance of choosing the right artists and hand-picks every employee. “The whole focus at the store is on the artwork and the client, so it’s important to fi nd artists who believe in that philosophy. We emphasize service and we strongly believe in doing that little bit extra for the client,” Sparky explains.

For those new to tattooing, “our staff recognize it can be intimidating.

“We’re trying to do the best artwork we can here and that’s paramount, and being successful comes from that.”

In addition to tattooing and piercing, a growing area has also been in using laser technology to remove old tattoos, or facilitate covering an old tattoo with something new. Black ink can be the most diffi cult to cover for someone looking for a change, but since it’s easily removed with the laser, it can be an effective solution.

Believing in giving back to the community, Urge has participated in events such as the motorcycle run in support of injured riders and each Nov. 11, offers poppy tattoos, with proceeds supporting local Legions. “Supporting the veterans makes me feel good,” Sparky explains. “A number of our guys have served in Bosnia, Somalia and Afghanistan and if we can help in some small way, I want to do that.”

As a career choice, “I feel like I’ve won the lottery,” he refl ects. “I

get to do something I enjoy, with people I like and I live in Victoria. It doesn’t get any better than that!”

2014

YEAR

20th

CityVICTORIA NEWS

Bestofthe

Voted

1

1230 Esquimalt Rd., Victoria • 778.432.4112We accept dental insurance assignment.

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Best of the City Summ

er 2014 • 39

Victoria-based artist Marianne Nicolson painted this mural on the side of Esquimalt Municipal Hall.

39 •

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2014

First Nations artwork gives voice to aboriginals

At five years old, Marianne Nicolson began to paint.

Growing up in Kingcome Inlet, a small island fishing village adjacent to Port Hardy, Nicolson began a 40-year journey that would take her from a town of approximately 1,000 people, to Vancouver and eventually Victoria, where she has carved a niche as one of the most well-respected artists on the West Coast.

“I think Victoria has a tremendously rich history and in some ways we have not really brought that history to the foreground, so I am waiting for that to happen,” Nicolson said. “That is one of the reasons I love living here.”

Even in a city known for its artists, the 45-year-old multi-faceted creator is known for her larger-than-life artwork including a 35-foot installation for the Canadian Embassy in Jordan, a 38x28- foot painting on the side of a cliff in Kingcome Inlet, full set design for an op-era in the York Theater on the mainland, 23-foot high glass totems for the Vancou-ver Airport, and a monumental mural on the side of Esquimalt municipal hall.

Despite working in a variety of me-

diums and the intrinsic beauty of the pieces she creates, she says her vision delves deeper than just the visual surface, and is just as proud of the multi-layered storytelling woven into every piece she creates.

“My art is very contemporary but always drawn back to our tradition. … The work is more or less First Nations issues and histories,” she said. “I use my art as a platform for social activism … to give a voice to what is happening for First Nations people in Canada and talk about Indigenous people and what is happening to them in the world.”

With a masters in fine arts and a masters and PhD in linguistics and an-thropology, it’s no surprise her artwork is as rich in colours, textures and visual stimulation as it is a platform to tell the tales she is most passionate about.

“I like to use my work as bridge … it means a tremendous amount to me to communicate those ideas,” she contin-ued. “In that way I feel like I am really contributing to making our experience as Indigenous and non Indigenous a better experience in this land.”

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More than just a dealership.From the Metro Lexus Toyota Family

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2009

YEAR

15th

CityVICTORIA NEWS

Bestofthe

Voted

1

2011

YEAR

17th

CityVICTORIA NEWS

Bestofthe

Voted

1

2012

YEAR

18th

CityVICTORIA NEWS

Bestofthe

Voted

1

2013

YEAR

19th

CityVICTORIA NEWS

Bestofthe

Voted

1

Thank youVictoriafor yearsof faithfulbusiness!

From the Metro Lexus Toyota FamilyFrom the Metro Lexus Toyota FamilyFrom the Metro Lexus Toyota Family

2014

YEAR

20th

CityVICTORIA NEWS

Bestofthe

Voted

BE

ST N

EW CAR DEALERSH

IP

40 •

Best

of th

e City

Sum

mer

2014

Carolyn Herriot, owner of Seeds of Victoria, says Victorians are fortunate to have such a great supply of organic food.

41 •

Best

of th

e City

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mer

2014

Our downtown streets are lined with restaurants with an increasing amount of local offerings and on grocery store shelves, a selection of produce born from island soil. But what is it about Victoria that breeds a love for such food, glorious food? And what is it about the West Coast that has us more than ever committed to producing some such delights?

“It’s pretty obvious when you think about our climate,” says Carolyn Herriot, author owner of Seeds of Victoria, organic seed producer and supplier of local organic produce. “We have the mild, temperate climate and the rest of Canada isn’t as fortunate as we are. You can grow food year round here. It’s a lifestyle thing. A lot of people think about coming to live on the Island and for them it’s about getting away from the crowd. Quality of life is important to Islanders and

you can’t talk about quality of life without talking about delicious, fresh organic food as a part of that equation.”

Herriot spends much of her time engaged in talks relating to food security, a mission in which she is well-supported here in Victoria.

“All up and down the Island, the restaurants are the educators,” she says. “When you go into a restaurant you try something on the menu that you’ve never had before then you’re introduced to some new food ideas.”

The more choices we have for local seasonal food, the better off we’re going to be into the future, Herriot says. It all plays into what she calls the new gastro-economy: the idea of building on Victoria’s already burgeoning artisan food industry – built on regional food, wine, cider, bread, mushrooms, cheeses and the like – to secure our place on the map as a gastronomic destination. Sounds like a delicious plan.

We sure love our food

Locavores, foodies and gourmands – oh my!

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Fort & Foul Bay #103-1990 Fort St. 250.592.7373 Hours: 11:00am - 8:00pm • Monday - Saturday

if it doesn’t say eugene’s it’s just

not the same.

GREEK RESTAURANT & SNACK BARSince 1979

LAMBSOUVLAKIIS BACK!

2011

YEAR

17th

CityVICTORIA NEWS

Bestofthe

Voted

1

Eugene’s Tzatziki, Homous & Pita bread only available at these LOCAL places:• Fairway Canwest Mall • Fairway Gorge • Fairway Quadra • Fairway Oak Bay • Fairway Shelbourne • Fairway McKenzie • Fairway Sidney

• Fairway Brentwood • Red Barn Market West Saanich Rd. • Red Barn Market Matticks Farm • Red Barn Market Vanalman

• Red Barn Market Latoria Walk • Peninsula Co-op• Market on Yates • Market on Millstream• UVic • Food Forum Oak Bay• Sysco Foods • Peppers Foods• The Local General Store

The Family and staff at Eugene’s would like to thank all the people that voted for making us

one of the best Greek restaurant in Victoria.

“Take Eugene’s Camping/Boating or a BBQ with friends and family...our Tzatziki & Homous are a tasty treat that goes with anything

or pick up our pita bread and make your own souvlaki.”

Best of the City Summ

er 2014 • 41

Carolyn Herriot, owner of Seeds of Victoria, says Victorians are fortunate to have such a great supply of organic food.

41 •

Best

of th

e City

Sum

mer

2014

Our downtown streets are lined with restaurants with an increasing amount of local offerings and on grocery store shelves, a selection of produce born from island soil. But what is it about Victoria that breeds a love for such food, glorious food? And what is it about the West Coast that has us more than ever committed to producing some such delights?

“It’s pretty obvious when you think about our climate,” says Carolyn Herriot, author owner of Seeds of Victoria, organic seed producer and supplier of local organic produce. “We have the mild, temperate climate and the rest of Canada isn’t as fortunate as we are. You can grow food year round here. It’s a lifestyle thing. A lot of people think about coming to live on the Island and for them it’s about getting away from the crowd. Quality of life is important to Islanders and

you can’t talk about quality of life without talking about delicious, fresh organic food as a part of that equation.”

Herriot spends much of her time engaged in talks relating to food security, a mission in which she is well-supported here in Victoria.

“All up and down the Island, the restaurants are the educators,” she says. “When you go into a restaurant you try something on the menu that you’ve never had before then you’re introduced to some new food ideas.”

The more choices we have for local seasonal food, the better off we’re going to be into the future, Herriot says. It all plays into what she calls the new gastro-economy: the idea of building on Victoria’s already burgeoning artisan food industry – built on regional food, wine, cider, bread, mushrooms, cheeses and the like – to secure our place on the map as a gastronomic destination. Sounds like a delicious plan.

We sure love our food

Locavores, foodies and gourmands – oh my!

Thank-you Victoriafor choosingRecreation Oak Bay!Recreation Oak Bay was chosenby you in these categories:ìBest Recreation CentreìBest Swimming Pool

Recreation Oak Bay Annual Passes:

250-595-7946recreation.oakbay.ca

ADULT ANNUAL PASS$380 ($34/month)19 years & over

YOUTH ANNUAL PASS$169 ($16/month)6-18 years

2014

YEAR

20th

CityVICTORIA NEWS

Bestofthe

Voted

1

Best

Recreation Centre

Cutera Genesis Plus Laser isthe most effective treatment

for fungal nails, warts and musculoskeletal problems.

Dr. Gregg Congdon and Dr. Bill MirchoffDoctors of Podiatric Medicine350 - 1641 Hillside Ave 250-592-0224www.drgreggcongdon.comor www.ftdocvictoria.comCovered by most Extended Health Plans

Victoria Podiatric Laser Clinic

42 •

Best

of th

e City

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2014

Cultural diversity in Greater Victoria is growing and Steven Lorenzo Baileys couldn’t be happier.

The community development coordinator at the intercultural association of Greater Victoria helps new immigrants integrate into the city and said growing multiculturalism should not only be a source of pride, but cause for celebration.

“It adds to and enriches the community that we have here,” Baileys said. When I go to different organizations and community centres and business, we are seeing the faces of newcomers, or descendants of, that are part of the fabric of our community.”

Baileys, who has worked at the ICA for more than nine years, points to the celebration of Chinese New Year, once practiced almost exclusively within the Chinese community, as a shining example of the benefits of cultural exploration.

“It shows how much into the mainstream different cultures are integrated into society,” Baileys said. “I see a tremendous desire and goodwill on the part of Victorians hands down, on how it can reach out to, and build those cultural connections.”

Several smaller pockets of cultural diversity from

the Greek and Portuguese to the growing Korean and African communities continue to grow among many others and

Pulcherie Mboussi, founder of the Victoria African and Caribbean Cultural Society and AfriCa Fest said continued growth is on the horizon.

“I find Victoria open and welcoming to learn and understand the differences, they are not scared,” she said. “People have to understand multiculturalism, it gives value to people. If you are just close to your own culture, you are missing something.”

The Cameroon native, who

lived in Quebec City before moving to the Island three years ago to learn English, said there is still more work to be done and hopes to see the cultural diversity from many of the lesser celebrated communities and education surrounding them continue to grow.

“You cannot wear the same dress every day, you have to change. You cannot eat the same food every day you have to eat different food,” she said with a laugh. “You can’t eat pasta every day and not know what the origin is.”

Baileys, who originally hails from Italy, said the genuine connections being built between the different cultural backgrounds is encouraging and he to sees that growth continue to develop.

“If we took a look at the entire population, other than First Nations, we are all linked to immigration,” said Baileys. “We are just seeing all the connections that creates and in turn, a community that is more welcoming and caring and thrives on all levels.”

Pulcherie Mboussi, founder of the Victoria African and Caribbean Cultural Society.

43 •

Best

of th

e City

Sum

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2014

Diversity enriches Greater Victoria community

Cultural mix

If you are just close to your own

culture, you are missing something.

>>

...

www.capitaliron.net FREE PARKING1900 Store St. Victoria Sidney Centre, Sidney

975 Langford Pkwy. West Shore

Victoria’sFavourite Store for 80 Years!

for

Thank YOU for consistently voting Capital Iron the Best of the City! Visit us for the Island’s best selection of BBQs,

Hot Tubs, Patio Furniture, Housewares, Hardware and more!

Backyard

Magic!

2014

YEAR

20th

CityVICTORIA NEWS

Bestofthe

Voted

1

2014

YEAR

20th

CityVICTORIA NEWS

Bestofthe

Voted

1

Enjoy fresh, flavourful cuisine two ways at Japanese VillageMany Victorians are familiar with the Japanese Village Restaurant’s award-winning teppan dining – after all, who hasn’t marvelled at the chefs dazzling with their remarkable skills, right at the table?

But what diners may not know is that the Japanese Village also welcomes guests in their charming, traditionally decorated sushi bar and dining room – just one more reason why the iconic restaurant has again been voted one of Victoria’s best. Pull up a comfortable stool and watch the talented master sushi chefs create the delicacies right before your eyes, or relax at a quiet table to enjoy your meal.

734 Broughton St. I 250.382.5165 I www.japanesevillage.bc.ca

2014

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CityVICTORIA NEWS

Bestofthe

Voted 1

Open for lunch and dinner, additional selections here include a variety of individual and combination meals, including tempura, yakitori, lunch-time udon bowls and more. Can’t decide which kind of sushi and sashimi to try first? Ask the chef to prepare a special assorted sushi platter and discover a new favourite. Of course, if you’re in the mood for something hot and sizzling, venture into the Teppan Steakhouse. Teppan dining, or Teppanyaki – “the iron table” – was first introduced to North America in the 1960s, offering guests a front row seat as their dinner is cooked to perfection right before their eyes. Choose from filet mignon, chicken and seafood dishes, complemented by fresh-cut vegetables and fantastic secret recipe sauces, then enjoy the show as your personal chef dazzles and delights with his culinary sleight-of-hand. Have a birthday or special occasion coming up? Whether in the sushi dining room or the Teppan Steakhouse, special events are a Japanese Village specialty and the experienced staff will help ensure your celebration is memorable!

Locally owned and operated since 1975

“Excellence in service since 1956”

10299 McDonald Park Rd, Sidney, BC V8L 5X71 800-665-9942 • 250-656-1122

“Excellence in service since 1956”TRIANGLE RV Centre

Color Yourself Happy

� ank You Victoria…for voting us as “Best for RV”

Check out our Winnebago

travel trailers!

Best of the City Summ

er 2014 • 43

CALL 250.920.7877Professional Service 24 Hours A Daywww.swiftplumbing.com

Keeping your water hot!As your water heater ages it becomes less ef� cient andtakes longer to heat. We can help determine the age ofyour tank and what you may need to keep your Water Hot. Give us a call Today!

Our team can help you!Plumbing - Heating - Gas - Sewer - DrainageRepairs or Replacement throughout your home.

How Old is Your Water Heater?5th Annual Lyall Street Service

1480 Lyall St • 250.382.0015 • www.lyallstreetservice.com

Show & Shine

All proceeds to the ALS Society of Victoria(Lou Gehrig’s Disease)

presented by

Imports, Domestics, European & MotorcyclesWelcome. Come down and show off your ride!

Car Wash • BBQ • Cold Drinks~ B Y D O N AT I O N ~

Chevy Grillverado on-site

Lyall Street Service

SaturdayJuly 12th

10am to 3pmAll proceeds to the ALS Society of Victoria(Lou Gehrig’s Disease)

Welcome. Come down and show off your ride!

Car Wash • BBQ • Cold Drinks~ B Y D O N AT I O N ~

Chevy Grillverado on-site

Lyall Street Service

SaturdayJuly 12th

10am to 3pm

Chevy Grillverado on-site

Lyall Street Service

Saturday

Cultural diversity in Greater Victoria is growing and Steven Lorenzo Baileys couldn’t be happier.

The community development coordinator at the intercultural association of Greater Victoria helps new immigrants integrate into the city and said growing multiculturalism should not only be a source of pride, but cause for celebration.

“It adds to and enriches the community that we have here,” Baileys said. When I go to different organizations and community centres and business, we are seeing the faces of newcomers, or descendants of, that are part of the fabric of our community.”

Baileys, who has worked at the ICA for more than nine years, points to the celebration of Chinese New Year, once practiced almost exclusively within the Chinese community, as a shining example of the benefits of cultural exploration.

“It shows how much into the mainstream different cultures are integrated into society,” Baileys said. “I see a tremendous desire and goodwill on the part of Victorians hands down, on how it can reach out to, and build those cultural connections.”

Several smaller pockets of cultural diversity from

the Greek and Portuguese to the growing Korean and African communities continue to grow among many others and

Pulcherie Mboussi, founder of the Victoria African and Caribbean Cultural Society and AfriCa Fest said continued growth is on the horizon.

“I find Victoria open and welcoming to learn and understand the differences, they are not scared,” she said. “People have to understand multiculturalism, it gives value to people. If you are just close to your own culture, you are missing something.”

The Cameroon native, who

lived in Quebec City before moving to the Island three years ago to learn English, said there is still more work to be done and hopes to see the cultural diversity from many of the lesser celebrated communities and education surrounding them continue to grow.

“You cannot wear the same dress every day, you have to change. You cannot eat the same food every day you have to eat different food,” she said with a laugh. “You can’t eat pasta every day and not know what the origin is.”

Baileys, who originally hails from Italy, said the genuine connections being built between the different cultural backgrounds is encouraging and he to sees that growth continue to develop.

“If we took a look at the entire population, other than First Nations, we are all linked to immigration,” said Baileys. “We are just seeing all the connections that creates and in turn, a community that is more welcoming and caring and thrives on all levels.”

Pulcherie Mboussi, founder of the Victoria African and Caribbean Cultural Society.

43 •

Best

of th

e City

Sum

mer

2014

Diversity enriches Greater Victoria community

Cultural mix

If you are just close to your own

culture, you are missing something.

>>

44 •

Best

of th

e City

Sum

mer

2014

Four-time Olympian Simon Whit� eld swam, biked and ran the four corners of the world.

From his gold-medal turn in Sydney, Australia, to his silver medal performance in Beijing, China, to the countless cross-continent trips along the triathlon circuit – he has spent time in the best water, roads and running locales the world has to offer. Yet Whit� eld says Victoria, is among the best.

“The trail network is world class. … I moved to Victoria in 1997 and was absolutely blown away by this place, I couldn’t imagine living in any other place,” he said. “We have our issues but we give so much to each other and as an active community, as a caring community, Victoria should give itself a lot of credit.”

In a region known for countless outdoor opportunities, while there are almost too many great

places to mention, he does have his favourites – and among them, church.

“Between Elk Lake, Beacon Hill Park and Thetis Lake, I would call that church,” said Canada’s � rst Olympic gold medalist in the sport of Triathlon. “I am not a religious person, but we ended up there a lot on Sundays.”

He credits the Capital Regional District for raising the stock of outdoor recreation in the region, due in large part to the proliferation of trails, bike lanes, and biking routes.

45 •

Best

of th

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2014

Greater Victoria offers unparalleled rec options

Get outside!

The trail network has made it easier than ever to spend time outside and the recently retired triathlete, now spending much of his free time on the water with his stand-up paddle

board, and with his two daughters, said the amazing infrastructure has helped strip the unnecessary noise out of his life.

“I am really trying to disconnect and put

my phone down and be connected in the present not electronically,” he said. “I don’t see it as just fun, I see it as essential. … I am fortunate to live in Victoria it is a great place to live.”

Simon says...Here’s Whit� eld’s favourite spots in Greater Victoria to train for a triathlon:

RUN• Elk Lake, Thetis Lake, Royal Roads

BIKE• Highlands, Sidney Bluffs, East Sooke Park

SWIM• Crystal Pool, Thetis Lake, Durrance Lake

20 •

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Colourful flowers and fresh vegetables for sale at the Sidney Street Market. The market is held every Thursday throughout the summer.

Thank You Victoria!From All the Doctors and Staff at

Hillside Veterinary HospitalDr. Jennifer Chan, Dr. Sylvie Abrioux

Dr. Glynis Newman & Associates

Hillside Veterinary Hospital1700 Kings Rd., Victoria 250.598.4477 www.hillsidevethospital.com

• Complete Care For Your Pet• Full Hospital and Surgical Facility• Acupuncture• Chiropractic• Rehabilitation

2014

YEAR

20th

CityVICTORIA NEWS

Bestofthe

Voted

1

Hillside Veterinary Hospital

Open7 DaysA Week

Best of the City Summ

er 2014 • 45

Four-time Olympian Simon Whit� eld swam, biked and ran the four corners of the world.

From his gold-medal turn in Sydney, Australia, to his silver medal performance in Beijing, China, to the countless cross-continent trips along the triathlon circuit – he has spent time in the best water, roads and running locales the world has to offer. Yet Whit� eld says Victoria, is among the best.

“The trail network is world class. … I moved to Victoria in 1997 and was absolutely blown away by this place, I couldn’t imagine living in any other place,” he said. “We have our issues but we give so much to each other and as an active community, as a caring community, Victoria should give itself a lot of credit.”

In a region known for countless outdoor opportunities, while there are almost too many great

places to mention, he does have his favourites – and among them, church.

“Between Elk Lake, Beacon Hill Park and Thetis Lake, I would call that church,” said Canada’s � rst Olympic gold medalist in the sport of Triathlon. “I am not a religious person, but we ended up there a lot on Sundays.”

He credits the Capital Regional District for raising the stock of outdoor recreation in the region, due in large part to the proliferation of trails, bike lanes, and biking routes.

45 •

Best

of th

e City

Sum

mer

2014

Greater Victoria offers unparalleled rec options

Get outside!

The trail network has made it easier than ever to spend time outside and the recently retired triathlete, now spending much of his free time on the water with his stand-up paddle

board, and with his two daughters, said the amazing infrastructure has helped strip the unnecessary noise out of his life.

“I am really trying to disconnect and put

my phone down and be connected in the present not electronically,” he said. “I don’t see it as just fun, I see it as essential. … I am fortunate to live in Victoria it is a great place to live.”

Simon says...Here’s Whit� eld’s favourite spots in Greater Victoria to train for a triathlon:

RUN• Elk Lake, Thetis Lake, Royal Roads

BIKE• Highlands, Sidney Bluffs, East Sooke Park

SWIM• Crystal Pool, Thetis Lake, Durrance Lake

Best Spa

2014

YEAR

20th

CityVICTORIA NEWS

Bestofthe

Voted 1

FOLLOW US ONTWITTER

LIKE US ONFACEBOOK

FOLLOW US ONTWITTER

LIKE US ONFACEBOOK

redbarnmarket.ca

• 5550 West Saanich Road • Mattick’s Farm - 129-5325 Cordova Bay Road• 751 Vanalman Avenue • Latoria Walk - 611 Brookside Road

Thank YouVictoria & West Shore

For Your Votes!And nominating us “Best of the City”

for Best Farmers Market, Best Produce, Best Organic Produce,

Best Meat and Best Specialty Deli!

With summer just around the corner, BC grown fruits and veggies are starting to flood our stores and we want you to

know where they come from!

If the sign says “local” it’s from the Island

All Red Barn Markets have added a “Local This Week” boardin their produce departments. The board will showcase whatitems we are carrying and what farm they come from in the“From the Island” section as well as what we have from the

mainland in the “BC Grown” section.

Thank you for supporting local business in Victoria

“Local” Means “Local”at the Red Barn Market

2014

YEAR

20th

CityVICTORIA NEWS

Bestofthe

Voted

FAFAF CEBOOKACEBOOKA

redbarnmarket.ca

Victoria & West Shore

And nominating us “Best of the City”

Best Produce, Best Organic Produce,Best Meat and Best Specialty Deli!

With summer just around the corner, BC grown fruits and

“Local” Means “Local”at the Red Barn Market

46 •

Best

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2014

If you’re looking for the best place to have a dog, Greater Victoria has got the goods.

“It’s part of the lifestyle here,” says professional dog trainer Darcie Jennings. “People love to spend time with their dogs.”

They also love to spend cash. The love of dogs has Canadians spending more than $4-billion a year to pamper our pets with everything from spa days to designer coats.

But our wild West Coast home has ample opportunity for hiking the trails and even taking rover to the beach – that is what Jennings says makes the difference here.

“Victoria is a very compassionate city,” she says. That’s the reason many dog lovers here have more than just one canine companion.

“When you’re taking your dog to the park or on a hike or to the beach, you’re doing those things anyway, so it’s not a big deal to add three or four or even five more,” she says.

Greater Victoria also has a very active dog sport community with many different training choices.

“Dogs are more of a hobby for some people,” Jennings explains.

But the big draw for animal lovers here is our mild weather. “You’re able to go out with your dogs every day. It’s conducive to year round activities.”

While other parts of the country are indoors sheltering from below freezing temperatures, Victorians are out for a run, often with Fido in tow.

“Even in the summer mosquitos can be really bad,” says Jennings describing taking her dog for a run in an open field in Edmonton, only to be quickly swarmed by the biting pests.

On the island, it’s easy to get out and do things with your dog, even if you’re not running up Mount Finlayson.

“Here there are a huge plethora of dog-friendly businesses. In Sidney or in the Cook Street Village, you can take your dog to the coffee shop

and many stores you can take your dog inside,” Jennings says.

Our slightly older population treat dogs like their kids, dedicating extra time and energy toward their wellbeing.

“Lots of people here treat their dogs like surrogate kids, there are

same sex couples and those with busy careers, for them dogs are a great option because they can hire a dog walker or take them to a doggy daycare. … It makes it super easy to live a good lifestyle and it’s a good lifestyle for the dogs as well.

“Dogs here are spoiled.”

Communicanine owner Darcie Jennings spends as much quality time outdoors with her dogs as she can.

47 •

Best

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e City

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2014

LUCKY DOGSMan’s best friend-friendly

Lots of people here treat their dogs like surrogate kids.>>

Wall Colour:Province Blue2135-40Aura® Bath & SpaMatte

KITCHEN DESIGN Immersed in Province Blue 2135-40,this kitchen features one colour in different sheens to create a subtle but unique monochromatic look. TheIce™ Grey sinks coordinate beautifully withthe marble countertops and are paired withantique-styled faucets in a Polished Chromefinish. Vaulted ceilings in Baby’s Breath OC-62 bring light to this modern kitchen.

Ceiling Colour:Baby’s BreathOC-62WB Ceiling PaintFlat

kitchen southern charm

Visit BenjaminMoore.ca for inspiration or ask a store professional to learn more about our products.

PACIFIC PAINT & WALLPAPER INC.1031 HILLSIDE AVE, VICTORIA

Tel: (250) 381-5254

PACIFIC PAINT WEST2455 MILLSTREAM RD., LANGFORD

Tel: (250) 391-4770

PACIFIC PAINT CENTRE INC.2065B KEATING CROSS RD., SAANICHTON

Tel: (250) 652-4274

Time-tested recipes cra� ed with care from quality ingredients and served with a friendly smile. It’s a recipe for success that has served the Romeo’s family well for 40 years.

Just ask their loyal customers who have once again voted Romeo’s one of the Best in the City for theirdelicious pizza.

Romeo’s has been a labour of love for DimitriMavrikos and his two brothers, Steve and George. With a focus on delicious food, great service and a fun, casual atmosphere, they wanted to create a place that felt like home, and in the summer of 1974 Romeo’s Place opened its doors on Hillside Avenue, followed soon by a second location downtown.

Signature pizza and pasta developed from recipes and techniques passed down to the family soon earned Romeo’s a passionate local following, with their steaks, chicken, burgers, salads, and delicious Greek dishes also earning accolades. With delivery and takeout options added, Romeo’s quickly became a Victoria icon.

“More than anything, I think our success comes from the commitment we have to the product and to the

Romeo’s celebrates 40 years on the Island BEST of the CITY FINALIST BUSINESS PROFILE: Romeo’s

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Downtown 250-383-2121 Broadmead 250-744-1177Hillside 250-595-0212Langford 250-474-2121Duncan 250-746-9944

Romeo’s celebrates 40 years on the IslandRomeo’s celebrates 40 years on the Islandcommunity,” Dimitri re� ects, noting the support given over the years to invaluable local organizations likeSantas Anonymous, the Mustard Seed and United Way. “We really are a local, family-run business. Our kids were born here, our family and friends are here.”

Additional locations followed for the Mavrikos broth-ers, who adhered to their simple philosophy of delicious food and excellent service at reasonable prices. Today, with the help of their growing families and franchisees Nick and Chris Kamaretsos, the company is celebrating 40 years and � ve Island locations.

Returning downtown in 2012 to the corner of Blan-shard and Fisgard street, and recently relocating to a new location in the Broadmead Village shopping centre, customers’ response has exceeded expectations, Dimitri says. Renovations are under way for the Hillside and Langford locations, bringing the restaurants a fresh, modern feel, with Duncan renovations to follow. And there’s more on the horizon for Romeo’s, all thanks to the support the Island-grown restaurant has enjoyed over the last four decades.

2014

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20th

CityVICTORIA NEWS

Bestofthe

Voted

“We could have never achieved this milestone with-out our dedicated employees, our thousands of loyal custom-ers and our supportive friends and family” Dimitri says.

Best of the City Summ

er 2014 • 47

If you’re looking for the best place to have a dog, Greater Victoria has got the goods.

“It’s part of the lifestyle here,” says professional dog trainer Darcie Jennings. “People love to spend time with their dogs.”

They also love to spend cash. The love of dogs has Canadians spending more than $4-billion a year to pamper our pets with everything from spa days to designer coats.

But our wild West Coast home has ample opportunity for hiking the trails and even taking rover to the beach – that is what Jennings says makes the difference here.

“Victoria is a very compassionate city,” she says. That’s the reason many dog lovers here have more than just one canine companion.

“When you’re taking your dog to the park or on a hike or to the beach, you’re doing those things anyway, so it’s not a big deal to add three or four or even five more,” she says.

Greater Victoria also has a very active dog sport community with many different training choices.

“Dogs are more of a hobby for some people,” Jennings explains.

But the big draw for animal lovers here is our mild weather. “You’re able to go out with your dogs every day. It’s conducive to year round activities.”

While other parts of the country are indoors sheltering from below freezing temperatures, Victorians are out for a run, often with Fido in tow.

“Even in the summer mosquitos can be really bad,” says Jennings describing taking her dog for a run in an open field in Edmonton, only to be quickly swarmed by the biting pests.

On the island, it’s easy to get out and do things with your dog, even if you’re not running up Mount Finlayson.

“Here there are a huge plethora of dog-friendly businesses. In Sidney or in the Cook Street Village, you can take your dog to the coffee shop

and many stores you can take your dog inside,” Jennings says.

Our slightly older population treat dogs like their kids, dedicating extra time and energy toward their wellbeing.

“Lots of people here treat their dogs like surrogate kids, there are

same sex couples and those with busy careers, for them dogs are a great option because they can hire a dog walker or take them to a doggy daycare. … It makes it super easy to live a good lifestyle and it’s a good lifestyle for the dogs as well.

“Dogs here are spoiled.”

Communicanine owner Darcie Jennings spends as much quality time outdoors with her dogs as she can.

47 •

Best

of th

e City

Sum

mer

2014

LUCKY DOGSMan’s best friend-friendly

Lots of people here treat their dogs like surrogate kids.>>

Thank You Victoria

Reserve: 250-380-2260 | 1001 Wharf Street

AWARD WINNING WINE LIST200 + WINES

We our gu�ts.

hank you to all our patients for voting us best place to improve your smile.

250-384-1154 Open Weekends and Evenings,New Patients Welcome186 – 3147 Douglas Street, in Mayfair Mallwww.mayfairdental.ca

Of� ce Hours: Mon. 7:30 am – 4 pm, Tues. – Thurs. 7 am – 9 pm, Friday 7 am – 4 pm, Sat. 8 am – 4 pm

T• Caring about the person

behind the smile since 1984.

• We would love to showyou the difference that our professional service can make in your life.

2014

YEAR

20th

CityVICTORIA NEWS

Bestofthe

Voted

48 •

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Located on Fort St. between Cook and Vancouver, J&J Wonton Noodle House specialises in Cantonese and Szechuan food. Using as many local ingredients as possible could be a reason for them receiving the title Best of the City more than once! The staff is attentive and friendly and the glassed in kitchen area allows you to watch the chefs preparing your food. The ingredients are incredibly fresh and there are a many daily specials. There are often line-ups so you may want to avoid peak times or reserve. A good selection of Gluten-free and vegan-friendly options available. Bring the whole family.

J&J WONTONNOODLE HOUSE

THANK-YOU VICTORIA!

Tues-Sat, lunch from 11-2 & dinner from 4:30-8:30

1012 Fort St. • 250-383-0680

2014

YEAR

20th

CityVICTORIA NEWS

Bestofthe

Voted

Thank You Victoria for votingJ&J Wonton Noodle House as oneof your favourite restaurants!

For close to 40 years, Dodd’s Furniture & Mattress has been a fi xture on the Victoria furniture scene and in the community – spearheading such long-standing traditions as the Thanksgiving Dinner and supporting local organizations.

And while Canadian-made products have always had a prominent place on their showroom fl oor, today there’s even more emphasis on keeping it local, says store manager Love Dodd, son of company founder Gordy Dodd, who started Dodd’s back in 1977 with just 2,200 square feet at the corner of Quadra and King streets.

Gordy’s recipe for success – quality products at fair prices, backed by deep community involvement – led to the store’s expansion to a 35,000-sq.ft. purpose-built showroom supported by a 35,000-sq.ft. warehouse, a second store in Nanaimo and a prominent position as one of the Best in the City.

Today, a recovering economy has people looking to keep their purchases closer to home, a trend Dodd’s is thrilled to support, Love says.

From Simmons and Serta mattresses made in Vancouver to quality BC and Canadian-made sofas and solid wood bedroom sets, the choices available to those wanting to keep their dollars local are greater than they have ever been.

“People are more aware of where they want their dollar to go,” Love explains. “They’re also more aware of the superior quality of the products coming from Canada.”

“Supporting community was a founding principle at Dodd’s, so to be able to extend that more and more into the products we offer just makes sense to us.”

The Winnipeg-based Palliser line offers numerous sofa styles in both leather and fabric for a customized feel, while made-in-BC Mako bedroom sets in solid alder and pine have also proven very popular, ranging from traditional Mission styles to more modern designs with leather-upholstered headboard and

storage drawers. Also from BC, Elite upholstered sofas allow customers to choose from many designs and 200 fabrics to create a truly custom piece. Being local, Dodd’s can even offer two-week delivery on orders using in-stock fabric.

“And good news for those wanting to improve their indoor air quality, those Vancouver-made Serta and Simmons mattresses are also made with more sustainable, natural soy-based materials, rather than with off-gassing synthetics typical of some overseas-produced products,” Love points out.

What else is new at Dodd’s?The new gel memory foam mattress

are sought-after for their cooler, more adaptable sleeping surfaces while the stylish, space-saving iKidz line has something for toddlers through teens...even downsizing adults who may be looking for smaller furnishings in today’s more compact spaces!

Visit Dodd’s Furniture & Mattress at 715 Finlayson St. Call 250-388-6663 for more information or visit www.doddsfurniture.com.

Dodd’s Furniture o� ers shoppers more local selection BEST of the CITY FINALIST BUSINESS PROFILE: Dodd’s Furniture

ADVERTISING FEATURE

2014

YEAR

20th

CityVICTORIA NEWS

Bestofthe

Voted 1

Gordy Dodd opened Dodd’s Furniture with a 2,200-square-foot store. Today Dodd’s offers 35,000-squarefeet of quality furnishings in Victoria and another 25,000 square-feet in Nanaimo.

Best Furniture Store

715 Finlayson St., Victoria 250.388.6663

www.doddsfurniture.com Hours:

Mon, Tues, Sat 9-6Wed-Fri 9-9, Sun & Hol 12-5

Follow & Join us for the latest commercials, promotions & monthly � yer!

Best of the City Summ

er 2014 • 49

250-386-1212FAX: 250-386-1299

Free shipping withminimum $70 order.

Anywhere in Canada.

2014

YEAR

20th

CityVICTORIA NEWS

Bestofthe

Voted

49•

Best

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2014

A lone bike rider makes his way along the Galloping Goose trail in Saanich. The trail links with many other trails and parks throughout the Capital Region.

Know where the locals go to do some relaxing

Victoria secrets

When travelling, nothing feels better than hitting the local hot spots, places you might not other-wise find on a front desk hotel map.

For starters, grab brunch just a few minutes away from downtown Victoria at Cecilia Creek Eatery (123 Gorge Rd. East). The all-day break-fast menu sources as many local products and ingredients as pos-sible. Local businesses like Phillips Brewery, Glenwood Meats, Portofino Bakery, Melissa’s Biscotti and Island Eggs are just a few offerings.

Once fuelled up, cycle along the Galloping Goose Regional Trail or drive towards Langford for a short but demanding hike up Mt. Finlay-son. Seasoned locals take the back side of the mountain (Mount Work) to guarantee jellied thighs the fol-lowing day.

At the summit, watch tiny golfers on Bear Mountain’s award-winning course below and witness views across the Strait of Juan de Fuca and beyond.

After the much faster descent, it’s time for another meal break. Stay

local by hitting Bin 4 Burgers’ latest joint in Langford (716 Goldstream Ave.). The succulent burgers and seasonal flavours are the ideal pick-me-up after a great day of exercise.

When night falls, head to the best cocktail lounges in Victoria. T ry the old-fashioned at Clive’s Clas-sic Lounge (740 Burdett Ave.), the Thai basil-infused Big Bluff at Little Jumbo (506 Fort St.) or get your bourbon fix with The Predator at Veneto Tapa Lounge (1450 Douglas St.). Maybe avoid that last drink

order if on a first date.For dancing, age-appropriate bars

abound. For the youngsters, there’s Sugar Nightclub (858 Yates St.) or Touch Lounge (751 View St.); young professionals flow into Darcy’s and Upstairs Cabaret (Bastion Square) around 11 p.m., and the 40-plus crowd loves the quality cover bands on offer at Swan’s Brewpub (506 Pandora Ave.).

Late-night eats and a European vibe extend to 2 a.m. on weekend nights at The Mint (1414 Douglas St.).

Your community.Your stories.

vicnews.com

Autoplan • Private Auto • Home • Travel

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Inside Langford

Autoplan • Private Auto • Home • Travel

Sussex Insurance - Westshore

Tel: 250 -391-5584 I westshore@sussexinsurance.com860 Langford Parkway, Langford, BC

Inside LangfordAutoplan • Private Auto • Home • Travel

Sussex Insurance - Westshore

Tel: 250 -391-5584 I westshore@sussexinsurance.com860 Langford Parkway, Langford, BC

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• Chimney Restorations

• Brick • Architectural Block

• Glass Blocks • Walls

• Patios • Walkways

Friday, February 14, 2014

www.vicnews.com

On solid iceHockey training facility

pulls through tough years Page A3

NEWS: Swimming tempers symptoms of MS A5

ARTS: A journey from hardship to harmony A12

SPORTS: U.S. colleges draft Victoria ballplayers A14

NEWSGAZ E T T E

GOLDSTREAM

Charla Huber

News staff

Two weekends ago, a dozen parents

camped out for days on Sangster school

property for a chance to have their child

accepted into SD 62’s nature Kindergarten

program.Now amid its second year, nature K was

launched in 2012 as part of the answer on

how to reconnect kids with the outdoors,

and anecdotally at least, it seems to be

working. Sangster elementary teachers Adina

McIndoe and Michelle James say there

isn’t much difference between students

in the classroom, but take them into the

nearby forest at Royal Roads University

and it’s a different story.

“All the students have settled in and

it’s hard to tell who’s who,” McIndoe said.

“But, when we go out in the forest then

you can tell who was in nature Kindergar-

ten. My students who were in nature K are

interested in going outside and are very

comfortable there.”

The program has 22 coveted seats, split

evenly between boys and girls, and with

two set aside for First Nations students.

Parents who camp out are mainly compet-

ing for boys spots.

Parents expect their child will be at ease

in the woods and on the beach, and that

appears to be the case. The teachers note

that students with nature K under their

belt bring with them a new and somewhat

advanced vocabulary including, “scaven-

ger” and “predator.” At five or six years

old, they can identify and name plants and

trees.“They are the first to tell us all about dif-

ferent plants they find,” James said. “They

are very well-spoken when it comes to

nature and they have a lot of respect for

it.”The transition from K to Grade 1 can be

tough for any kid, but for students at Sang-

ster this year, it was a bit rougher due to

seismic upgrade construction.

McIndoe’s class was held in the library

and James’ class was in a temporary

classroom, but in December both teach-

ers moved their students into permanent

classrooms.“Grade 1 is always a transition for stu-

dents” said Sangster principal Maureen

Lauren, who was a Grade 1 teacher for 22

years. “At the beginning of the year we

have extra hands-on play time,” to help

with the transition.

Kindergarten is more about learning

through play and Grade 1, students learn

to read, write, add and subtract.

The outcomes of nature K are being

studied and compiled by professors and

graduate students from University of Vic-

toria and Camosun College, and part of the

work is looking at the transition to Grade 1.

Results are expected this fall, and Fran-

ces Krusekopf who spearheaded nature

K in the Sooke School District, expects

results in line with what Grade 1 teachers

are witnessing.

“There has been research in Europe for

children from forest preschools to normal

regular schools,” said Krusekopf, currently

the principal of Colwood elementary.

“Those studies have shown the children

(in Europe) transition as well if not better

than other students.”

For more on SD62’s nature K program,

see naturekindergarten.sd62.bc.ca.

charla@goldstreamgazette.com

Charla Huber/News staff

Sangster elementary Grade 1 teachers Michelle James and Adina McIndoe teach students from the inaugural year of nature

Kindergarten in SD 62. They say students who transition from nature-K or standard kindergarten to Grade 1 are about the

same in terms of play and interactions, until the class goes outside.

Classroomsindoors vs. outdoorsNature Kindergarten

program appears to

be paying off, say

Grade 1 teachers

“When we go out in the

forest then you can tell who was

in nature Kindergarten.”

– Adina McIndoe

Sangster elementary

Grade 1 teacher

Friday, February 14, 2014

www.vicnews.com

Educator honouredLeslie Lee wins national

recognition award Page A7

NEWS: Police chase catamaran thief /A5

ARTS: Songwriter turns hardship to harmony /A11

SPORTS: Mariners baseball trio college-bound /A13

OAK BAYNEWS

Christopher Sun

News staff

For almost four years, Mohinder

Doman didn’t know what was wrong

with her. It started in 1999 with what she

thought was indigestion and bouts

with a cold. The indigestion lingered

and she started feeling increasingly

fatigued. She visited numerous

doctors, each one telling her it was

nothing to worry about, attributing

her ailments to aging. She was in her

50’s at the time.

Tightness in her

chest, joint pains in her

shoulders and swollen

feet followed, but

repeated doctor visits

yielded nothing but pain

relief medication and a

recommendation to rest.

“There was one

particular day … I was at home and I

was just so ill,” Doman said. “I could

hardly move and there was no point

in going to see a doctor because I had

already been many times and they

always dismissed me.”

Doman’s health was in decline.

She had difficulty standing in the

shower and the steam affected her

breathing. She gained weight, was

constantly tired and turned down a

wedding invitation because she felt

too weak to leave home. She was also

bruising easily.

One day, a friend who was a nurse

made a surprise visit, shocked by her

physical condition, she took Doman

to see a doctor who diagnosed her

with congestive heart failure.

She learned through an angiogram

that she had multiple heart attacks.

“I thought this couldn’t be possible

because I was thinking, if you have (a

heart attack), you die,” Doman said.

“How could I have had a number of

them?”

■ ■ ■

Heart disease is the number one

killer of women, said Carolyn Thomas,

who hosts the annual Cardiac Cafe at

the University of Victoria.

A heart attack survivor herself,

Thomas leads a lecture, where she

shares her experience and knowledge

gained from the WomenHeart Science

and Leadership Symposium at the

Mayo Clinic. She said the

symptoms of heart disease

for women and men are

very different and it is

common for doctors to

misdiagnose women.

“Up to 40 per cent of

women experiencing a

heart attack don’t have

chest pains at all,” Thomas

said. “It’s quite different than what

we see in Hollywood movies, where a

person clutches their chest and falls

down.” Thomas was able to walk and

talk during her heart attack.

Thomas had her heart attack in 2008

when she was 58. She was out for a

walk when she experienced crushing

chest pain, but it was the pain on

the left side of her arm that made

her wonder if she was having a heart

attack. She didn’t think it was possible

as she was a distance runner and lived

a healthy, active lifestyle.

“I did go to emergency, because of

the arm pain,” Thomas said.

She was told by the emergency

room doctor that it was just acid

reflux. “I then thought this acid reflux

was brutal. How can people handle

this?”

Commonly misdiagnosed, heart disease

remains the No. 1 killer of women

TAKE HEART

Don Denton/News staff

Mohinder Doman, who is celebrating the 10th anniversary of her heart surgery, hugs

the heart-shaped pillow she was given after her surgery. Heart patients are given

the pillow to hold against their chest when they have to cough in order to minimize

movement of the chest area following surgery.

PLEASE SEE:

Lucky to be alive, Page A10

“I was

thinking, if you

have (a heart

attack), you die.”- Mohinder Doman

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Don Denton/News staff

Ten-year-old Jada Benwell, right, along with help from friends and family including, from left, six-year-old Summer

Bentham, eight-year-old Caleb Bentham and eight-year-old Quinn Benwell has been collecting socks, toques, gloves

and scarves to distribute to those less fortunate. Read the story on page seven.

Steven Heywood

News staff

It’s no secret North Saanich district council-

lors are split over the future of housing devel-

opment in their municipality and Mayor Alice

Finall and her supporters want to ensure the

size and scope of this change is not a secret to

the residents.

Council began the steps to change the Dis-

trict’s regional context statement bylaw on

Feb. 3. This process will increase the amount

of land within the munic-

ipality that will be open

to more housing develop-

ment at increased densi-

ties. It’s a move that the

opponents of the mayor

say has been a long time

coming. It has also been

the subject of the con-

troversial housing imple-

mentation plan started by

the municipality in 2012

to explore the need for

growth in the wake of increased development

pressure.“These plans (for housing) on our borders

with Sidney will be embraced,” says Council-

lor Ted Daly.He added that since Sidney has little new

land to build on, it’s up to North Saanich to

provide space in appropriate areas for more

housing.“We are being a complete, inclusive commu-

nity,” Daly said about this bylaw change.

Housing changes no secretTwo North Saanich

neighbourhoods to

receive letters on growth

Please see:

Plans for housing diversity, page 3

Ted Daly

Aviation career day at air museum

Devon MacKenzie

News staff

Students on the Saanich Peninsula will

have a chance to test their appetite for

careers in aviation this month thanks to

the B.C. Aviation Museum (BCAM).

The BCAM is hosting Aviation Career

Day, which is co-sponsored by them and

the Victoria International Airport, on Sat-

urday, Feb. 22 and students will be able to

attend the event for free.

“It’s focused on students in Grades 9 to

12 and it serves to join students up with

people in the aviation industry and show

the students what sort of options are out

there,” explained Dhyana Harrington, one

of the event’s co-ordinators.

Aviation Career Day will feature exhibi-

tors from the Victoria Airport Authority,

the Victoria Flying Club, the University of

Victoria, Transport Canada, the Depart-

ment of National Defence, Viking Air, the

B.C. Institute of Technology, Nav. Canada,

Westjet and more, Harrington said, adding

that career day at the BCAM is about more

than just jobs in commercial aviation.

“Career day shows students that there’s

a lot more to the aviation field than just

becoming a pilot or flight attendant,” she

explained.The 2014 Aviation Career Day is the third

event of its kind hosted by the BCAM.

Quality family timeFamily Day in Sidney drew

thousands in to play with Lego.

See our photos, page 3

Watch for breaking news at www.vicnews.com

C O M M U N I T Y N E W S M E D I ABlack Press Friday, February 14, 2014

PENINSULA R E V I E WNEWS

Local girls off to the Games

Lexi and Veda Smith are off

to the B.C. Winter Games in

Mission next week, page 11

Event showcases

career opportunities in

the aviation industry

Please see:

Career Day has grown, page 5

GrayRothnie

250 744 7034www.graymatters.ca

Connected to More®

Friday, February 14, 2014

Blind fightVision-impaired woman

advocates for skills training Page A3

COMMUNITY: Saanich offers disaster prep classes /A5

ARTS: Loss, love and life inspire Victoria singer /A12

SPORTS: Mariners baseball trio college-bound /A15

SAANICHNEWSWatch for breaking news at WWW.VICNEWS.COM

Distracted dangerousand

Christine van Reeuwyk

News staff

A pair of youth are likely still

talking about the day last week

they helped Saanich police Sgt.

John Price issue their moms a

ticket. On separate occasions, Price,

with the department’s Traffic

Safety Unit, caught two moms

not complying with B.C.’s dis-

tracted driving legislation while

their child was in the vehicle.

The officer had each kid read

the ticket aloud to their parent,

using the roadside stop as an

educational opportunity for all.

“Our message to everybody out

there is: hands-free means hands-

free. … It’s really telling when we’re

stationary and you watch as people

approach an intersection,” Price said.

“It is one of the leading causes of seri-

ous and fatal crashes.”

Police in Greater Victoria are crack-

ing down on the dangerous driving habit

with a month-long campaign targeting cell-

phone-use behind the wheel. In the first five

days of February, Saanich police issued 57

tickets for using an electronic device while driv-

ing. More than 100 tickets have been issued in

Saanich so far this month.

B.C. banned drivers from using electronic devices

in January 2010, but even four years later officers

are still hearing excuses.

“One of the common themes we’re getting from

people is they have their cellphone in hand on

speaker mode,” Price said. “You can’t have it in

your hand, that doesn’t count as hands-free.”

One person was hit with the $167 fine twice in

the first six days of the campaign.

Last week, officers from the Victoria Police

Department caught distracted drivers in a variety

of ways, including being in unmarked cars and

being passengers on B.C. Transit buses. Cops on

the bus would radio their counterparts on the road

if they saw drivers displaying behaviour consistent

with distracted driving.

“Being on the bus, you’re in a vehicle people

aren’t suspecting you to be in … and looking down

into a vehicle is much easier,” said Const. Kristin

Greffard with VicPD’s traffic unit. “It was great – in a

matter of two hours we had nine distracted drivers

(and) five seatbelt tickets.”

“We’re trying to be creative to let people know

we’re out there,” she said. “The transit thing was

new for us and it was relatively successful, so we

might look at that again in the future.”

Both departments plan to target distracted driv-

ers all month, citing an average 91 deaths on B.C.

roads each year attributed to distracted driving.

“Most motorists are doing the right thing …

but it’s a significant ongoing problem,” Price said.

“Somewhere along the line with the proliferation

of smartphones was a shift in mentality that we’re

supposed to be reachable 24-7.

“On a weekly basis we get calls from Joe Q motor-

ist reporting other motorists. So there’s an aware-

ness it’s unlawful, but more importantly there’s an

awareness that it’s a risk.”

reporter@saanichnews.com

Distracted dangerous

there is: hands-free means hands-

free. … It’s really telling when we’re

stationary and you watch as people

approach an intersection,” Price said.

“It is one of the leading causes of seri-

ous and fatal crashes.”

Police in Greater Victoria are crack-

ing down on the dangerous driving habit

with a month-long campaign targeting cell-

phone-use behind the wheel. In the first five

days of February, Saanich police issued 57

tickets for using an electronic device while driv-

ing. More than 100 tickets have been issued in

Saanich so far this month.

B.C. banned drivers from using electronic devices

in January 2010, but even four years later officers

are still hearing excuses.

Police crack down on drivers using cellphones

Photo by Sharon Tiffin/ News staff

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C O M M U N I T Y N E W S M E D I ABlack Press

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NEWSM I R R O R

Editorial Page 8

Entertainment Page 15

Sports/stats Page 21PHOTOGRAFFIA

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Page 16

SOOKE

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Hotel parking issues

brought before council

Pirjo RaitsSooke News Mirror

A special meeting on February

4 saw a couple of items brought

before District of Sooke council

in regard to the Prestige Hotel.

At issue were amendments, vari-

ances and shared easements for

the hotel.A Development Variance

Permit was authorized for the

height of the hotel. Mechanical

equipment and elevator shafts

were not included in the original

plans and height adjustments

had to be made and a variance

permit issued. Council autho-

rized the issuance of the DVP

as well as a Development Permit

Amendment for the design of

the public boat launch. The DPA

was issued to reflect the existing

design of the boat launch.

What council did not approve

was parking spaces for the hotel.

“One of the issues of great

concern to us is the issue of

parking,” said Mayor Wendal

Milne. “It is insufficient at best

and quite frankly council wants

to look at it.” He went on to say

he was not prepared to approve

the Development Variance Per-

mit.The variance would have

seen the hotel requiring only

95 spaces with another 25

spaces allotted for the public

boat launch. One of the issues

around parking is the necessity

for trucks and trailers to park

along West Coast Road when the

parking lot at the hotel is full.

Councillor Kevin Pearson felt

the hotel would have control

over the parking and by giv-

ing them access to parking on

District of Sooke property this

could be seen as disposition of

district assets.

“We need to put them (Pres-

tige Hotel) on notice that they

need parking,” Pearson said.

In looking over the Shared

Easement Agreement, Pearson

said some of the language in it

would guarantee Prestige the

use of the boat launch’s parking

spaces.Milne said he did not want to

see parking reflected in the ease-

ment document.

Council approved the Shared

Easement over the property

owned by the Prestige Hotel and

the District of Sooke but stipu-

lated that the easement shall not

grant any parking rights.

John Brohman spoke out

and said the hotel should be

restricted in how many rooms

they can book in relation to

parking spaces.

“I’ve never seen ‘no vacancy’

there yet,” he said.

“This is not about bashing

Prestige, shortcuts were taken

and we are trying to fix them

and protect the interests of the

taxpayers of Sooke,” said Milne.

Council recommended discus-

sions take place with Prestige to

work on the parking issues.

File photo

The Prestige Hotel

Fire destroys mobile home

Britt SantowskiSooke News Mirror

In the early morn-

ing hours of February

6, in the middle of the

Island’s cold snap, the

Otter Point Fire station

received a call about a

fire. At 12:43, they were

called to attend a fire at

7951 West Coast Road.

They were there within

10 minutes, by which

time the registered

manufactured home

was fully engulfed in

flames. John McCrea,

Captain, Otter Point

Volunteer Fire Depart-

ment said their main

concern was contain-

ing the fire. The burn-

ing building was by that

point unoccupied.

“There was noth-

ing left to go into, so

our first concern was

to protect the main

house,” he said.

Sooke Fire Rescue

Services also assisted

with the call. “The fire

was through the roof

when we arrived,” said

Chief Steve Sorensen,

noting the roof was col-

lapsing and no one was

going in. The occupant of the

manufactured home

was 16-year-old Calvin

Currie who, according

to his father Jeff Currie,

fell asleep with a space

heater on, to guard

against the extreme

cold that night.

Currie and his wife,

April Ingham, awoke in

the middle of the night

(they live in the main

house) to their son

Calvin telling them the

manufactured home

was on fire.A couple of more

minutes, and it could

have been too late, Jeff

said. His son Calvin lost

everything: his surf

board, snow gear, cloth-

ing, art work and more.

However, both Jeff and

April are deeply appre-

ciative that the losses

were all material. With

Calvin safe in their

home, they are count-

ing their blessings.

April Ingham photo

The charred remains, with the main house in the background. Except for some

melted gutters over the living room window, and some cracks in that window, the

main house escaped damage.

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www.vicnews.comVICTORIANEWS

Love transcendsCaring for family with

dementia a labour of love Page A3

NEWS: Chamber wooing civic election candidates /A3

ARTS: Songwriter turns hardship to harmony /A14

SPORTS: Mariners baseball trio college-bound /A16

Don Denton/News staff

Getting ready to ride

Mechanic Dylan Cunningham looks over a rear derailleur (gears) on a bicycle brought in for a tune-up at

Russ Hays, The Bicycle Shop. With the cold snap over and weather back to our usual mild temperatures,

many cyclists are getting their rides tuned up and cleaned in preparation for spring and summer riding.

Preparefor parkingshake-upCity of Victoria looks at ways

to increase revenue, limit the hit

to downtown parkers

Free parkades after 6 p.m., automatic first-hour

free parking and $1 on-street parking between 6 and

9 p.m. are a few changes that could be coming to

downtown Victoria.The city plans to vote on changes

to parking services in June, as part of

a review that began last summer. The

analysis was spurred by a decline in

city-owned parkade use, a perceived

lack of on-street parking availability

and Victoria’s general reliance on

$15.6 million in parking revenue,

among other issues.

“We do have five parkades – they’re

very convenient – and we want to

make it easier for drivers to use it,”

said Dwayne Kalynchuk, Victoria’s

engineering director. “Use of our off-

street parkades has declined, so we’re

trying to improve that infrastructure.”

As part of parkade improvements, staff

recommend moving monthly users to higher levels to

free up more convenient spaces for short-term use.

Parkades would also be free after 6 p.m. (currently

$2 for evening parking) and downtown on-street

parking would rise to $1 hourly between 6 and 9 p.m.

to entice drivers into parkades. Free Sunday and

holiday parking remains unaffected.

Ken Kelly, general manager with the Downtown

Business Victoria Association, has advocated for

automatic first-hour free parking for years. He said

the proposed changes could still use improvement,

but the recommendations are a good first step.

Daniel PalmerReporting

PLEASE SEE:

Downtown parking dilemma, Page A11

Family friendly sex ed a hot topic

Having that “birds and bees” talk

with the kids can be an awkward

undertaking for most parents.

Thankfully, Island Sexual Health

Society is offering a day of educa-

tional seminars tailored to families

at First Metropolitan United Church.

“The idea is basically to create

health literacy from a young age so

that children understand about their

bodies, how to take care of them-

selves and communicate,” said Jen-

nifer Gibson, co-ordinator of commu-

nity education services with Island

Sexual Health Society.

The society offers sex education

classes to more than 11,000 people

every year, but it’s not often those

programs are run out of a church, she

said. “You’re just building a conver-

sation for a healthy life, as opposed

to this old idea of sitting down to

have the talk around puberty. That’s

often too late.”

The sessions take place Feb. 27

between 4:30 and 7:15 p.m. Age-

appropriate sessions are planned for

children ages 3 to 5, ages 6 to 8, ages

9 to 12 and 13 to 16.

The cost is $12 per family for as

many sessions as required. Register

online at firstmetvictoria.com or by

calling the church at 250-388-5188.

Find more information at island

sexualhealth.org.dpalmer@vicnew

s.com

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blvdmag.ca OCTOBER 2013

local secrets

inside:

fresh haute dogs

All in the Family

RomAncing

the stove

with Pam Grant

ARtist

PAt mARtin BAtes

Playing with the light

PostcARDs home

Family relives war

history in Belgium

and France

oak Bay livinG

DECEMBER 2012/FEBRUaRy 2013

INS IDE › P Eo P l E › T Rav E l › Fo o D › R EC R E aT i o n › a RTs

DECEMBER 2012/FEBRUaRy 2013Tweed

Rooftop oasisJim KiRK's home

on the Avenue

All in the FamilygeneRAtions oF

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50 •

Best

of th

e City

Sum

mer

2014

50 •

Best

of th

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Sum

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2014

Experiences10 must-have Victoria

2.Hop across the border to charming Port

Angeles, Washington. In less than three hours the MV Coho ferry will have you touring Olympic National Park, strolling historic districts and tasting local fare.

3. Escape urban life just a short distance from

downtown in Goldstream Provincial Park’s 379 hectares, including hiking

trails, salmon streams and plenty of wildlife.

4. Spy on the commercial � shermen at

Fishermans Wharf in the Inner Harbour, and then head to the nearby seafood restaurants to taste their catch.

5.Head to Victoria’s Chinatown, the second largest in

British Columbia. Take a chance on foods you don’t

recognize, candies whose labels you can’t read and fresh, authentic Asian cuisine.

6.Learn about our province’s past, present and future

history at the Royal B.C. Museum. And don’t be surprised if you see a viking or two.

7.Snap a picture or two of the city’s best landmarks -

the B.C. legislature and the

Fairmont Empress, and while you are there take a stroll along the Inner Harbour – just watch out for the seagulls.

8.Time to smell the roses? Share in Jennie Butchart’s

love of gardening at the iconic Butchart Gardens in Central Saanich.

9.Weigh yourself down with shopping bags

from chain stores to small

mom and pop shops in downtown Victoria, the Bay Centre, Mayfair Mall Hillside shopping centre, and many, many more shopping boutiques.

Thing to do

1. Don your helmet, kick the tires and head out for a bicycle tour of Victoria’s urban parks, quiet

neighbourhoods and shorelines.

10. Quench your thirst at one of the more than 100 brew pubs and craft beer makers in the region. Just a warning: the beer’s so good you’ll need to � nd a safe ride home. Bottoms up!

Victoria’s Downtown Sushi Destination

615 Yates (at Broad Street)

250.382.8768www.azumasushi.caOpen Daily 11 am - Late

• Dine In • Take Out • Delivery • Dine In Victoria

Thank you for making us

Best in the City again!2014

YEAR

20th

CityVICTORIA NEWS

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RUSSELL BOOKSThanks Victoria for letting us know we stack up!

• 500,000 New and Used Books• Unique Cards and Calendars• We Buy Used Books

52 Years of business & still growing! Locally owned & operated.

734 Fort St. 361-4447www.russellbooks.com

Check out our Vintage Room at 738 Fort Street

Now with over 16,000 square feet!

2011

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Best of the City Summ

er 2014 • 51

When you love food, you love The Market Stores.Look for our � yer sp� ials every Wedn� day in the newspaper or online.

It just doesn’t get better than this.

LOCALLY OWN E D AN D OP ERATED

125-2401 C Millstream Road | 250.391.1110 8 am-11 pm903 Yates At Quadra | 250.381.6000 7 am-11 pm

www.themarketstores.com

The Market is all about diversity and quality. In fact, no matter what’s for breakfast, lunch or dinner chances are you’ll � nd the ingredients here.

Shoppers appreciate our local products, international ingredients and traditional brand favourites, at competitive prices, not to mention one of the largest gluten-free selections in the city.

We offer a vast array of fresh goods, including dairy, deli, grocery, bakery, meat, seafood, and � oral. Our many departments are

dedicated to freshness from our store to your table.

Add to that our array of organics and natural foods you have a neighbourhood grocery store that continues to inspire its customers with delicious possibilities.

Private investment portfolios for individuals, families and foundations, focusing on Income and Capital Growth.

Tel: 250.595.7955www.georgiancapital.ca

We measure our successby excellence of reputation