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LOCAL EVENTS

2019 BEST OF THE CITY RESULTS

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COFFEE CULTURE

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25 years of voting for the Best of the City BEST OF THE CITY HAS KEPT UP WITH THE TIMES

he results of the annual Best of the City Awards are always a highlight of the year. It’s a chance to rediscover old favourites and become new regulars at others. It helps remind us why Greater Victoria is such a fantastic place to live – something we can take for granted at times. This year is especially special as we celebrate our 25th annual edition, a theme you’ll find throughout the following pages as we highlight Victoria’s culture. Seeing that translate into votes and giving residents a chance to throw their support behind the businesses, organizations and places they love Katherine really highlights the best our Engqvist region has to offer. Greater Victoria Editorial In all, more than 83,500 votes Hub bureau chief were cast across nearly 150 categories. Some of the most voted-on categories included the best attraction (Butchart Gardens, Royal BC Museum, Breakwater Ogden Point), the best place to shop for BBQs (Capital Iron, Costco, Canadian Tire), and the best new bookstore (Bolen Books, Munro’s Books, Russell Books) or used bookstore (Russell Books, Beacon Books, The Salvation Army Thrift Shore). In days gone by, people would manually

Interior plaza in Market Square in downtown Victoria. Don Denton /Black Press

write out their ballots to vote for their favourites, but that gave way to online voting some years ago. More recently we would allow residents to nominate their favourites for a short period of time before voting open. But this year residents were able to write in their favourites throughout the entire process. If you didn’t get a chance to vote, or nomi-

nate one or more of your favourites, there’s always next year so be sure to watch for the 26th edition next spring.

Campus Honda ranked as a top finalist as the Best Place to Buy a New Vehicle in Victoria

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Campus Honda

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Best of the City Summer 2019 • 3

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FEATURES INSIDE

Best of the City How to contact us: Black Press 818 Broughton St. Victoria, B.C. V8W 1E4 Phone: 250-381-3484 Email: publisher@vicnews.com Web: vicnews.com Group Publisher Penny Sakamoto Vic News Publisher Michelle Cabana Editor Katherine Engqvist Creative Director Lily Chan Production Cara Robbins Crea Zhang Heather Kohler Janice Marshall Contributing writers Nicole Crescenzi Christine van Reeuwyk Shalu Mehta Jen Blyth Contributing photographers Don Denton Lia Crowe Winners in the 25th 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 and ranked in order to determine first, second and third place. Black PressVancouver 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.

City of Gardens

Best of the City cover Krystal Hanson and Canoe take in the ocean views from the path along the cliffs next to Dallas Road, one of the many local areas available to enjoy the outdoor

Photo by Lia Crowe

through 23 Journey culture and history of First Nations

Education key to learning true history of traditional territory on which Victoria sits

25 things to do, eat, see and enjoy

at 13 Look Esquimalt now Highlights to check out in the Township this year

to 52 Everything see and do

Events Calendar Check out all the exciting events our town has to offer through the summer!

Coffee Culture Best of the City Summer 2019 â€˘ 5

Proud to again be Victoria’s first choice for legal services!

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25things to do,eat and enjoy 1

Art Gallery of Greater Victoria With almost 20,000 works of art, the Art Gallery of Greater Victoria has the largest public collection in B.C. It first opened in 1951 and exhibited art in the historic Victorian mansion next door that dates back to 1889. Now, the museum includes seven galleries that host prestigious exhibitions in a state-of-the-art space.

Breakwater Ogden Point

A popular walk near downtown Victoria, the Breakwater at Ogden Point is an easy excursion that offers up some beautiful views of the Juan de Fuca Strait. Take in the sights as you watch the many cruise ships sail by. You might even catch some seals hanging around if you’re lucky!

Hecklers

Tea at The Empress

Looking for a sophisticated afternoon? Try the world famous afternoon tea at the Fairmont Empress Resort. All of their menu items are created fresh daily using local ingredients from local suppliers and are served in the historic Lobby Lounge filled with live classical piano accompaniment. Indulge yourself with a classic Champagne tea experience.

Up for a night of good food and laughs? Hecklers Bar & Grill is the place for you. Take in some live comedy every Friday and Saturday night or head over during the week to catch up on sports. The chicken wings at Hecklers Bar & Grill are a must-try and a great way to end any day.

25 things to eat, see and enjoy in Victoria! Whether you’re interested in an adventure with family or a night out with friends, Victoria offers no end of fun, diverse activities for anyone. From museums and shopping to whale watching and outdoor excursions, visitors and residents are never bored. Here are 25 things to eat, see and enjoy in Victoria:

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Discovery Coffee Discovery Coffee hand-selects green beans from farmers all over the world and roasts them in-house, creating new, unique brews every day. Starting with a love of coffee and turning that into a passion for what it takes to make the best, one of Discovery Coffee’s seven locations is a great stop to fuel up with an ethical cup of joe.

Little Jumbo

Inspired by Jerry Thomas, the “father of American mixology” and Harry Johnson, “the father of professional bar-tending,” Little Jumbo emphasizes the craft of preparing food and drinks with fresh, local ingredients and a mix of continental and contemporary styles. If you’re interested in trying a unique cocktail paired with some good food, Little Jumbo is a must.

Bear Mountain Resort Golf, dine, relax and take in the views at The Westin Bear Mountain Golf Resort & Spa, located in a beautiful nature setting that is only a short drive from downtown Victoria. Spend some time at the spa or try out some incredible biking trails as you enjoy a local getaway.

Walk the Gardens The Butchart Gardens is a must-see oasis 100 years in the making. Step in and explore 55 acres of displays from the depths of a former quarry to the sweet scents of the rose garden. Butchart Gardens sees more than 1 million visitors every year and features 50 full-time gardeners, 26 greenhouses and 900 bedding plant varieties.

Eagle Wing Tours Head to Eagle Wing Tours for some of the best whale watching on the Island. Take a ride in a semi-covered or open boat and see the majestic creatures in their natural habitat. Be sure to dress warm, it can get cold out on the ocean!

13 Uptown Shopping Centre

Royal Theatre The Royal Theatre and concert hall is located in the heart of downtown. The theatre opened in 1913 and has even operated as a theatre at one point. It was designated a National Historic Site of Canada in 1987. Enjoy anything from Broadway Musicals to the Ballet and take in some culture while you’re in Victoria.

Located inside the beautiful Beacon Hill Park, the Beacon Hill Children’s Farm is a must-see for families visiting the area. It is nestled inside 200 acres of park land and is home to the park’s famous peacocks as well as fun animals like goats and donkeys.

Wildplay

If you’re more of a thrill-seeker, Wildplay is the place to go. Offering mother nature’s urban adrenaline rush, visitors can test their spirit with an adventure course high in the sky, take a zipline tour and jump from a platform 40 feet off the ground. It’s a fun family outing that’ll get everyone excited.

Bolen Books

A literary lover’s paradise. At almost 20,000 square feet, Bolen Books is the largest single-location independent bookstore in Western Canada. Search through over 30,000 titles by up-and-coming names as well as new authors. You’re sure to find your next great read at Bolen Books.

Esquimalt Farmers Market Launched in May, 2015, the Esquimalt Farmers Market is a must-visit. Dedicated to promoting healthy, local living, the market offers everything from organic food to products made by local artisans. Stop by on Thursdays from 4:30 to 7:30 p.m. at Memorial Park from May to September.

Beacon Drive In Ltd Voted Victoria’s Best Ice Cream for the last 23 years, the Beacon Drive-In is the perfect stop before or after exploring Beacon Hill Park. It has been open for 60 years and serves everything from breakfast to burgers and of course, soft serve ice cream.

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Get your shopping fix at Uptown, a shopping centre that is not only convenient to get to but is loaded with great stores in an artfully designed space. Shop, dine, and socialize at this easily accessible spot minutes from downtown.

Beacon Hill Children’s Farm

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THANK YOU VICTORIA FOR YOUR CONTINUED SUPPORT SINCE 1949

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Drive in restaurant

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Best place for ice Cream

C E L E B R AT I N G O U R

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25things to do, eat, see and enjoy 17 Jam Cafe

Food Trucks

In the mood for all-day breakfast or for a great lunch? Head to Jam Cafe for a fantastic meal. Located in downtown Victoria, this restaurant serves food inspired by recipes from the south like house made cornbread, buttermilk biscuits and fried chicken. It’s where comfort food meets the urban city.

Yoga

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Put a little zen in your day with everything from Vinyasa to Barre classes offered in Victoria. With a number of studios across the city, you’re sure to find the right space for your practice. It’s important to spend a little time for you in the day, and setting aside some time for yoga is the perfect way to do just that.

Satisfy your hunger with the yearlong food truck festival in the back courtyard of the Royal BC Museum. Some of Victoria’s tastiest grub on wheels is stationed from 11 a.m. until 6 p.m. Sunday to Thursday and from 11 a.m. until 7 p.m. on Fridays and Saturdays in June and August and from 11 a.m. until 7 p.m. daily in September.

YMCA-YWCA Looking to fit a workout into your schedule? The YMCA-YWCA of Vancouver Island has three locations in the Victoria area as well as a rich, 135-year history in the community. Whether you’re in downtown Victoria, Langford or View Royal, there’s always time for a workout at the YMCA-YWCA.

Esquimalt Ribfest

Royal BC Museum Spend some time at one of Canada’s leading museums and research centres and take in 550 million years of natural history and 9,000 years of human history in B.C. The Royal BC Museum offers incredible collections year-round as well as travelling exhibits that are sure to inspire.

Be sure to stop by Esquimalt Ribfest for a weekend of barbecue ribs, local entertainment, craft beer, cider, wine, family activities, local arts and vendors. All proceeds from the Ribfest outside operating costs also go towards local charities and school-sponsored activities for the community’s youth.

20 Commonwealth Pool Go for a swim at the pool at Saanich Commonwealth Place. The pool offers swimming lessons, fun swims, family swims, length swimming and more.

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Canoe Brewpub

Head to Canoe Brewpub for great waterfront views on the outdoor patio, handcrafted beer and fresh food. The rustic brick architecture and timber-framed building is the perfect place for any gathering.

Esquimalt Lagoon

Pack a picnic and head over to the Esquimalt Lagoon. This migratory bird sanctuary is the perfect place to unwind in the cool ocean breeze. For birders it’s a great place to sit with a pair of binoculars and with its breathtaking views, it’s a great spot for an evening stroll.

Thank You Victoria!

Victoria Downtown Y

Langford Westhills Y

View Royal Eagle Creek Y

851 Broughton Street Victoria, BC | V8W 1E5

1319 Westhills Drive Langford, BC | V9B 0S2

110 – 25 Helmcken Road View Royal, BC | V8Z 5G5

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Best of the City Summer 2019 • 9

Healthy People, Strong Communities.

CONGRATULATIONS FROM LUV-A-RUG To All Nominees & Winners of Greater Victoria’s Best of The City Awards

Luv-A-Rug Promises You’ll Fall In

LOVE With Your Rugs All Over Again Since 1996, Luv-A-Rug Services Inc. has been Vancouver Island’s most LOVED rug cleaning company – and one that’s quickly becoming known as having a big heart. While washing area rugs is at the core of what they do, they are also one of the only companies on Vancouver Island capable of restoring these pieces of “art you can walk on”. Their in-house Persian-trained weavers perform authentic hand repairs on all types of rugs from inexpensive machine made ones all the way to the most valuable handwoven priceless antiques. Luv-A-Rug has always strived to be the best-in-class when it comes to cleaning and restoring area rugs. Not content with providing the same level of results as everyone else in the industry, Luv-A-Rug has developed its own line of area rug cleaning equipment and tools which they currently sell to other cleaners around the world. This equipment along with a proprietary cleaning system developed by the owner Stephen “Dusty” Roberts has allowed Luv-A-Rug to become the first company in BC to be able to offer guaranteed pet odor removal without the use of harsh chemicals the rest of the industry uses. With the recent win of 3 BBB Torch Awards in 2018 and the 2019 Chamber of Commerce Best Business (1-10 Employees) of the Year, Luv-A-Rug has shown just how big it’s heart really is. Because of their mission to give back to the community, Luv-A-Rug was recognized in the media when it took it upon itself to clean the more than 400 rugs within School District 61’s elementary schools, a $90,000 project, at no cost. They also clean donated rugs for refugee families, Women In Need, and charitable thrift stores; restore horse blankets by donation to the BC Horse Council; wash dog beds by donation to the SPCA; clean K-Gr3 classroom rugs for free and offer half price cleaning to non-profit organizations.

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A view of the hundreds of classroom rugs Luv-A-Rug cleaned for SD61

Stephen “Dusty” Roberts, Team Leader at Luv-A-Rug, with just one of several hundred school classroom rugs Luv-A-Rug cleaned at no cost for SD61

It seems that with everything Luv-A-Rug has been doing for the city, it’s no wonder they’ve gotten Victorians to not only “Fall In Love With Their Rugs All Over Again” but also fall in love with Luv-A-Rug too. To get an INSTANT ESTIMATE on your rugs, call “Dusty” at 250-590-6210 – or even better, just use your mobile phone to text him your name & pictures of your rug at 778-533-7847 or go to www.luvarug.com

10 • Best of the City Summer 2019

FREE MOTH INSPECTION OF YOUR RUG

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Restorative Rug Washing ~ Authentic Hand Woven Rug Repair ~ Rug Appraisals We also clean Boat Tops & Sails, Sports Equipment, Stuffed Animals, Horse Blankets, Outdoor Furniture, Luxury Hand Bags Luv-A-Rug Services Inc. 445 Beta St, Victoria, BC 250-590-6210

Local sports teams have a celebrated history in Victoria WORLD CLASS ATHLETES WOW FANS

reater Victoria is home to a number of worldclass athletes. Whether you enjoy tossing a ball around, shooting a few pucks after work or cheering on your favourite players over a beer, Victoria has a team for you. The following are just a few of the teams that call Victoria home. Since their 2013 inception in the West Coast League (WCL), the Victoria HarbourCats have been celebrated on and off the field. In each of their first four seasons, the HarbourCats increased their win total, leading to a WCL record-setting 40-win campaign in 2016. That campaign earned the team a berth to playoffs, the first playoff berth for a Victoria baseball team since 1952, as the WCL North Division’s half pennant winners. In 2017, the HarbourCats won their second half division pennant, eventually coming within one win of a title. During the last five seasons (2014-2018), Victoria has led the WCL in attendance. The team’s 2018 attendance of nearly 62,600 even set a league record. Counting exhibition games, the HarbourCats saw more than 78,000 people attend games and have eclipsed the 300,000 mark for total attendance during their six years of play.

The Pacific Football Club is a division of the brand new Canadian Premier League and has brought professional men’s soccer to Greater Victoria. Based out of Westhills Stadium, the team is playing its inaugural season in 2019 and is lighting up the field in purple and blue, taking on its opponents. The home opener in April saw a sold-out crowd and the team’s first win as it made Canadian soccer history. The games are for all ages with a family zone, food trucks and a beer garden. A member of the Western Conference in the Western Hockey League (WHL), the Victoria Royals began to play during the 2011-2012 season after the league announced the relocation of the Chilliwack Bruins to Greater Victoria. It marked the return of the WHL to Vancouver Island 17 years after the departure of the Victoria Cougars to Prince George in 1994. The Royals won their first game in franchise history on Sept. 24, 2011, in front of a sold-out crowd in the Save-On-Foods Memorial Centre. The team went on to win the B.C. Division during the 2015-2016 season. The Victoria Shamrocks, based out of The Q Centre, are looking for their 10th Mann Cup Championship in

2019. The team got its start in 1950 and has been a force in the local community for almost 70 years with one of the most impressive legacies in Greater Victoria. The club has nine Mann Cup Canadian Senior ‘A’ championship victories, won in 1955, 1957, 1979, 1983, 1997, 1999, 2003, 2005, and 2015. But that’s not all. The club also has claimed 20 provincial championships, 19 league championships, and has been home to countless league scoring champions as well as league playoff MVPs. A number of big names are back in the roster for the 2019 season, which kicked off at home on May 24. Evolving over the years with a number of different names, the Westshore Rebels football team officially made its move to Westhills Stadium in 2011. The team, which is part of the Canadian Junior Football League and plays in the B.C. Football Conference, has awardwinning coaches and players. The Westshore Rebels have also been recognized for their sportsmanship and involvement in the community and are committed to the development of amateur football and community development across Vancouver Island.

THANK YOU VICTORIA ...for allowing Dodd’s Furniture Voted to give you our BEST Best for over 40 years! City of the

VICTORIA NEWS

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Best of the City Summer 2019 • 11

“WE WON’T BE UNDERSOLD!”

“Thank you, Victoria” for voting us Best Place to Buy a Mattress Voted

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VICTORIA’S BEST SELECTION

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Look at Esquimalt now! CHECK OUT THE TOWNSHIP THIS YEAR

he Township of Esquimalt is a land of history and character with something for everyone to see. The shoreline area boasts a modest population of 18,000 people, but it’s rapidly growing with new buildings and businesses opening regularly. Two recent additions covered by Black Press include the addition of Esquimalt’s first coffee roastery, The Esquimalt Roasting Company, and a new and well-received Indian restaurant, Spice Valley. Innovative new infrastructural projects are making their way to Esquimalt, including an upcoming, 12-storey mass-timber project which will be the first on the Island. Additionally, Esquimalt will be hosting the new wastewater treatment plant, for which the township received a $17 million amenity fund. Council is currently deciding the best ways to spend that funding, but so far top contenders include upgrades

to Saxe Point Park and Bullen Park, the installation of a Japanese Tea House in the Esquimalt-Gorge area, and the construction of an emergency coordination centre. In the meantime, present-day favourites include the Splash Pad at the Esquimalt Adventure Park, which reopened for the season in May for the second time since it was constructed. Additionally, the Esquimalt Farmer’s Market will be operating again this summer every Thursday, after winning the Farmer’s Market of the Year award for the second year in a row. Markets run from 4:30 p.m. to 7:30

p.m. at Memorial Park at 1200 Esquimalt Rd. Looking for some more outdoor events? Check out the Memorial Park Music Fest, which will be running every Tuesday from 6 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. on Tuesday nights from June 18 to 30. Last but not least, you better save up your appetite for the upcoming Ribfest at Bullen Park. Some of the best barbecuers of the country will be featured at a weekend long event, with meals paired with live music and local ciders and brews. This year it Ribfest will run from Sept. 6 to 8. nicole.crescenzi@vicnews.com

Thank you from

Thank You for voting for Saanich Parks and Recreation. We’re finalists in the following categories:

Best Golf Course Cedar Hill Golf Course

Best Swimming Pool Saanich Commonwealth Place

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saanich.ca/recreation

www.bolenbooks.com

books@bolen.bc.ca • (250) 595-4232

instagram.com/bolenbooks • facebook.com/bolenbooks

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I belong here, celebrating community.

14 â€˘ Best of the City Summer 2019

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Thank you

for your support, Victoria! 1720 cook st. 250-384-8181

220 bay st. 250-595-1225

New landmarks in Victoria BRIDGES, BUILDINGS AND MORE HAVE POPPED UP ACROSS VICTORIA IN THE PAST YEAR

he City of Victoria’s skyline is undergoing significant changes; cranes pepper the downtown core and new developments are sprouting up every month. There are dozens of residential units being built and many more awaiting approval, but other large landmarks have also appeared in the past year. The most recognizable addition to the city is the new Johnson Street Bridge, which officially opened on March 31, 2018. By June 8, 2018 the last remnants of the old bridge were carried away, and on Aug. 28, 2018 the final portion of the new bridge opened to pedestrians. Since then, surrounding plazas on either side of the bridge have been built, and the surrounding area continues to transform as the expansion

of the David Foster Walkway and renovations for the neighbouring Reeson Park continue. Let’s not forget the adjoining bike lanes, which are opening shortly along Wharf and Humboldt streets, with the most recent addition to the bike network opening along Fort Street in May 2018. More bike lanes are slated to open in 2019 along Vancouver Street, Harbour Road and the HillsideQuadra area. Additionally, this year the sxʷeŋxʷəŋ təŋəxʷ James Bay Library Branch is celebrating its first anniversary since opening on May 26, 2018. Since opening, over 199,000 items have been checked out. The library celebrated its anniversary with the installation of a new art piece by Victoria’s artist-in-residence, Luke Ramsey. Ramsey was also a participant in the city-wide

effort to bring colour to the city in the form of murals. Murals have appeared throughout Victoria, with a heavy concentration on the industrial Rock Bay area, which was featured in the city’s “Concrete Canvas” initiative in April 2018. The project saw artists from across Canada and the world bring their craft to 16 walls near the bridge on Bay Street. That bridge, formally known as the Point Ellice Bridge, is now under construction to accommodate infrastructural updates. Construction on the bridge began on May 21 and is slated for completion in October. What’s your favourite addition to the city? Send us a Tweet @VictoriaNews. nicole.crescenzi@vicnews.com

We’re Open for Business! Congratulations to all the nominees and winners!

Open Monday to Friday from 8:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. 1 Centennial Square, Victoria 250.361.0629 | bizhub@victoria.ca | www.victoria.ca/bizhub victoria.ca/bizhub

Best of the City Summer 2019 • 15

The Business Hub at City Hall is your first point of contact if you are an entrepreneur, investor or anyone looking to do business in Victoria. We will help you access information and connect you to the right resources to get your business open quicker. Connect with our Business Ambassador today!

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25 FUN facts about Victoria

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Victoria has been named the most romantic Canadian city according to Amazon Canada purchases.

There are about 1,600 lamp posts across the city that hold hanging flower baskets every summer.

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MAGIC SHOWS

Every Tuesday Night!

There are three resident pods of orca whales, totalling 76 whales, that hang out in Victoria’s waters.

Victoria’s Chinatown is the oldest in Canada.

The world’s tallest free-standing totem pole is in Beacon Hill Park. There are two universities in the area, Royal Roads University and University of Victoria.

The average age of people in Victoria is 41.9 years.

The City of Victoria has four sister cities: Napier, New Zealand; Suzhou, China; Morioka, Japan and Khabarovsk, Russia.

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As the provincial capital, the British Columbia Parliament Buildings have about 3,300 energy efficient lights shining when the sun goes down.

Trounce Alley nestled in downtown Victoria contains authentic gaslights that are over 125 years old.

The Fairmont Empress serves half a million cups of tea annually.

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Women may also feel more comfortable in Victoria, as it was rated the third-best place to be a woman in Canada in 2019 by the Canadian Centre for Policy Alternatives.

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The population of Greater Victoria grew by about 1.3 per cent from 2017 to 2018. According to new estimates, 396,523 people lived in the Greater Victoria area in 2018.

VICTORIA NE WS

VICTORIA NEWS

Many of the municipalities in Greater Victoria have their own fairs like Oak Bay’s Tea Party, Esquimalt’s Buccaneers Days and the Luxton Fair.

The Art Gallery of Greater Victoria is home to the most comprehensive collection of Asian art in Canada.

Over one million visitors come to the Butchart Gardens, a National Historic Site of Canada, per year.

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of the the

Victoria boasts some of the mildest temperatures in Canada and is a unique place where you can see both the ocean and mountains at the same time. It’s a great city to explore by foot or bicycle and has an incredible history. Here are some facts about the province’s capital and area:

Victoria is known as the City of Gardens. Take a walk around and enjoy the beautiful flowers on display!

Japanese Village Best 11

The Capital Regional District is made up of 13 different municipalities and three electoral areas.

Victoria is home to Canada’s western naval base, CFB Esquimalt. December and January in Victoria see some of the lowest average temperatures with a high of 8 C. July and August see some of the highest with an average high of 20 C.

Fan Tan Alley inside Chinatown is the narrowest street in Canada. Over 3.5 million overnight visitors come to Victoria every year.

Victoria boasts an average of 2,193 hours of sunshine yearly and an eight month frost-free season.

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Best of the City Summer 2019 • 17

Victoria is very bike-friendly, with hundreds of kilometres of cycle paths, bike lanes and routes, including the Galloping Goose Regional Trail which will take you through multiple Greater Victoria municipalities.

Victoria has been named among the top 10 friendliest cities in the world by Conde Nast Traveler.

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Thank you everyone for the support,

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Coffee Culture in Victoria TOPPING THE LIST OF THE MANY THINGS VICTORIA HAS TO OFFER IS COFFEE

hether you’re looking for something to-go or want to find a great, local shop to meet a friend or read a book, Victoria is a coffee-lovers paradise. With seven locations in Victoria including one truck, Discovery Coffee is a great place to refuel. The local coffee company hand selects green beans from farmers all over the world and roasts them in-house in Victoria. The beans are roasted in small batches and paired with specific brew methods, giving customers a unique brew every day. Yonni’s Doughnuts, made from scratch every morning in James Bay, are the perfect pairing with a cup of discovery coffee. Another great, local, family-run coffee roastery is Caffe Fantastico with three locations in the city. The Caffe Fantastico family has travelled the world, visiting unique areas to find the best beans. They build relationships with growers and factor environmental sustainability of the operation and labour conditions at farms into which beans make their way back to Victoria. Caffe Fantastico is a great place where community meets coffee. Habit Coffee is another local coffeehouse that aims to make coffee better — in terms of the product and every step coffee takes to get to the consumer. Working closely with roasters Bows & Arrows Coffee, Habit Coffee sources the best beans from around the world, making trips to the communities and regions that produce the beans. Bows & Arrows roasts the beans in a studio that allows roasters to monitor every batch carefully. With well-trained baristas who

don’t take shortcuts and a culture of optimism, exploration and community, you’re sure to get a good cup of coffee at Habit Coffee. Coffee culture is more than just grabbing a cup of coffee for a caffeine fix. It’s a lifestyle that

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Music in the Park, Strawberry Festival back for families to enjoy THE SOUNDS OF SWEET MUSIC AND THE TASTE OF SWEET BERRIES RETURN TO SAANICH THIS SUMMER

The District of Saanich celebrates its diverse culture with a number of family friendly events throughout the summer. Spending Tuesday nights in Saanich has become a popular pastime for people within and outside Greater Victoria’s largest municipality. Music in the Park, presented by Saanich Parks and Recreation, returns for its 12th season on July 2, when Rock of Ages brings their repertoire of ’60s to ’80s classic rock to the grounds of Goward House, 2495 Arbutus Rd.

Families are invited to bring a blanket and picnic dinner to enjoy the free festivities that run Tuesdays from 6 to 8 p.m. in parks throughout Saanich during July and August. And more and more families are taking Saanich up on the invitation. Music in the Park 2019 Schedule: Tuesdays, 6 – 8 p.m. July 2 - Rock of Ages Goward House, 2495 Arbutus Rd. July 9 - Younger Than Yesterday Majestic Park, 4380 Majestic Dr. July 16 - Bobby Dazzler Beckwith Park, 857 Beckwith Ave. July 23 - Groove Kitchen Brydon Park, End of Viewmont Ave. July 30 - Late Shift Hyacinth Park, 700 Marigold Rd. Aug. 6 - Freeze Frame Rutledge Park, Inverness & Cloverdale Aug. 13 - Shades of Grey Rutledge Park, Inverness & Cloverdale

Crowds take in the show during Music in the Park last year in Rutledge Park. (Saanich News file photo)

Aug. 20 - Arf the Dog Rudd Park, 3259 Irma St.

Another popular, family-friendly event is the annual Strawberry Festival, taking place July 7 from 11 a.m. until 3 p.m. at Beaver Lake Park. This popular event promises an afternoon of hanging out at the beach, listening to music, bouncing on inflatables and eating ice cream by the buckets. In past years, organizers have served up more than 500 kilograms of ice cream and 300 kg of strawberries, which an army of volunteers wearing red T-shirts and aprons scoop and sloosh into thousands of little buckets. A cohort of celebrities, often local politicians, then hand them out to the hungry masses. But don’t wait to get in line, this treat is expected to sell out. The Strawberry Festival began as a celebration of Saanich’s agricultural history. From these roots, it has blossomed into a festival that draws not just local residents, but out-of-towners. Part of the event’s appeal lies in the diversity of activities. One area of the park offers music, ice cream and beach access, while another hosts inflatable bounce equipment and a number of arts and crafts stations. Various community organizations will also be on hand to provide information and games.

Aria Lam, 5, and her Raymond Lam were among the 8,000 or so who attended the Saanich Strawberry Festival Sunday in 2017. Organizers expect a similar figure in 2019. Black Press File.

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Landmarks provide journey through culture and history of First Nations EDUCATION KEY TO LEARNING TRUE HISTORY OF TRADITIONAL TERRITORY ON WHICH VICTORIA SITS *This article was written by a nonIndigenous writer For settlers and visitors on the land that we now call Victoria, taking in Indigenous landmarks and culture is an important key to understanding the history of the land – but it must be tied to learning about the traditional and unceded territory on which Greater Victoria now sits. The southern tip of Vancouver Island – including Victoria and Langford, the San Juan and Gulf Islands – are the traditional territories of the Lekwungen peoples – the Songhees, Esquimalt and WSÁNEĆ Nations. Linda Calla, corporate services and special project coordinator for Indigenous Tourism BC, says there are ways to explore Indigenous culture with respect and care, such as looking for events or attractions that have partnerships and consultations with local First Nations. Education is also vital for non-Indigenous tourists. “Since reconciliation has become big in B.C. and across Canada, people still don’t understand a lot of the history of Indigenous people here,” Calla said, herself a member of the Squamish Nation, located in the Lower Mainland. “They don’t realize that whole communities were displaced – they were literally told they had to pick up and move from one location to another, even though they had probably lived in that location for 10,000 years. It’s extremely important for non-Indigenous people to understand the history of Indigenous communities.” Calla also encourages visitors to ask questions, but respect the fact that some may not be answered. “It might be something we don’t share outside our community members because it’s sacred or spiritual part of the culture,” she explained.

Exhibits at the Royal BC Museum The past is deeply woven into the present. Exhibits at the Royal BC Museum give visitors insight into traditions that span thousands of years and the impact of colonialism on B.C.’s First Nations people. Dive deep into the history of the region’s First Nations people and learn about the 34 languages linked to distinct B.C. territories for thousands of years in the Royal BC Museum’s Our Living Languages exhibit. The interactive, auditory and visual exhibit takes visitors on a ‘tour’ through the traditional territories of B.C. and the history of their mother tongues – of which entire communities are working tirelessly to document and revive. The museum also includes a First Peoples Gallery with an awe-inspiring Totem Hall featuring carvings from Kwakwaka’wakw, Heiltsuk, Nuxalk, Gitxsan, Haida and Nuu-chah-nulth communities. Crest poles, house posts, masks, regalia and modern works by other B.C. First Nations create an all-encompassing, breathtaking cultural experience . Thunderbird Park Thunderbird Park, although an artificial re-creation, is a stunning representation of Indigenous art along one of the most scenic routes through downtown Victoria. In 1941, a display of totem poles from the Royal BC Museum was set up on a grassy patch near the B.C. Legislature building at the corner of Belleville

and Douglas Streets. Eventually, to preserve their integrity, the original poles were moved inside the museum and replaced by replicas, carved mainly by Kwakwaka’wakw master carver, Mungo Martin and others under his direction, including Henry Hunt and his son’s Tony and Richard. Recently, two of the replica poles were removed for safety reasons, but dozens still proudly stand, including Haida poles, Gitxsan poles and a Kwakwaka’wakw Honouring pole and Heralding pole. Visitors can also see the 1981 studio where the replica poles were produced, as well as Wawadit’la The Mungo Martin House – a Northwest Coast-style house constructed back in 1941. Beacon Hill Park Beacon Hill Park is a renowned Victoria landmark, with otherworldly Douglas firs, deciduous groves and Garry oak meadows dusted with periwinkle Camus flowers and butter-hued golden paintbrushes – not to mention duck ponds and a free petting zoo, complete with bouncing baby goats. But Beacon Hill Park has far more significance than most know. It was once the site of a prehistoric village – remains of village refuse were found at defensive locations along the waterfront and burial grounds have painted a story with origins that are mostly, completely unknown. It is known however, that in the mid-19th century, members of the Songhees and Esquimalt First Nation

inhabited and gathered edible Camus bulbs in the area that many tourists and settlers enjoy today. Much of the history and original landscape of Beacon Hill Park was permanently altered or destroyed by early settlers. Beacon Hill Park is a popular go-to for all who spend time in Victoria, but not all learn the park’s real history. Learn more at beaconhillparkhistory.org. University of Victoria Walking Tour The beautiful University of Victoria campus is a sight of it its own – but it also includes magnificent pieces of Indigenous artwork, and is best explored via the school’s self-guided walking tour. Stroll through the First People’s House – a cultural, social and academic centre for Indigenous students – and find rotating art collections. UVic asks that all who enter the centre do so with respect for the ancestors, original caretakers of the land, and one another. View the ‘Eagle on the Decayed Pole and the Raven Soaring’ replica poles near the McClaurin Building, head to the engineering building for a view of the cedar and latex paint Welcome Figure and check out the mixed-media Ceremonial Furniture in the mezzanine. The art is endless and takes you from one end of campus to another. Contact Legacy Art Galleries at (250) 721-6562 for more information about the walking tour.

Best of the City Summer 2019 • 23

2019 Victoria Indigenous Cultural Festival Every year comes a unique and special opportunity to connect with and learn about the deep cultural histories of B.C.’s First Nations people. Celebrate National Indigenous Peoples Day weekend at the Royal BC Museum in downtown Victoria with the Esquimalt and Songhees First Nation. Music, dance, food and art abound at this free event – with artisans and First Nations performers from across B.C. and Canada sharing their cultures with the public. Visitors to the Royal BC Museum Plaza between June 21-23 will witness smudge ceremonies, storytelling, drum-making and cedar-weaving demonstrations, traditional dancers, singers and more. “How you keep a culture alive is by passing knowledge and skills down to younger people,” said Calla. “We want to help preserve culture. And tourism is an amazing way to assist communities in preserving their culture.” For more information visit indigenousbc.com.

Songhees Chief Ron Sam welcomes a crew of First Nations members and City of Victoria officials in the canoe crossing to kick of the 2018 Victoria Indigenous Cultural Festival. (Nicole Crescenzi/VICTORIA NEWS)

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Victoria is home to one of the best mid-sized downtowns in North America The Downtown Victoria Business Association (DVBA) represents almost 1,500 distinct businesses within our downtown core. Our recently released First Annual Report on Downtown provides a snapshot of the trends that shape downtown Victoria and includes the aggregated results of our annual DVBA member survey. Here are some of the results: 73 per cent of our members rated downtown Victoria with a B grade or better as a place for business 63 per cent of our members state their business was the same or better in the last year We have a near record low retail vacancy rate of 4.1 per cent We have 1,700 rental and condo units under construction with just under 800 of them expected to be completed in 2019 Downtown Victoria is vibrant and alive – our First Annual Report on Downtown confirms this. That is not to say there are not challenges. However, when we compare our downtown to other mid-sized downtowns in North America and examine how their small businesses are performing, we are the envy of many.

The Downtown Victoria Business Association is delighted to acknowledge all the winners in this year’s Best of the City edition. We know that small business is the secret sauce of downtown and our regional economy. We celebrate the tireless efforts of small business owners, entrepreneurs, and their employees in creating the rich cultural, economic, and social backbone of Victoria. I invite you to come downtown, spend a day or an evening here. Stroll the Inner Harbour, visit the shops and boutiques on Lower Johnson, Government, or Fort streets. Grab lunch or dinner in one of our world-renowned establishments. Enjoy a cocktail in one of our lively lounges. Attend any one of our over 100 annual festivals held throughout the year. If you have not been downtown for a few years, I urge you to come explore all that we have to offer. I know you will like what you see. You will also be supporting local businesses who are a vital part of our community. To view the full report go to dvba.ca/ report.

Jeff Bray, executive director, Downtown Victoria Business Association

SITKA LAW GROUP

Thank you, Victoria,

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We appreciate the feedback that our clients have provided us… “The office was so friendly we got a chance to meet with other partners and staff despite their busy day. It would appear they foster a team approach and do things a bit differently than other law firms! If you are reading this - just reach out and you’ll know what I’m talking about.”

“We love Sitka! They were so helpful and insightful when starting our business from the ground up. We’d highly recommend to anyone!” “I had a wonderful experience working with this firm. They were knowledgeable, available, experienced and very pleasant. They truly went above and beyond! I would recommend them to anyone!”

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Best of the City Summer 2019 • 25

“I cannot express my gratitude enough for everyone at this firm, you are all some of the most considerate, intelligent, and hardworking individuals I have come across. I’m so pleased with the time and energy our lawyer took in not only knowing the legal matter, but the client as well, I knew I was being heard every step of the way. Thank you, for taking such complicated concepts and explaining them with ease, for the knowledgeable advice, and for everything else in between.”

“Super helpful and knowledgeable, knew exactly what I needed and made the process easy and painless. They went out of their way to help me. Thank you!”

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of the

VICTORIA NEWS

2 0 1 9

ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT BEST ART GALLERY

1 Art Gallery of Greater Victoria 2 The Robert Bateman Centre 3 West End Gallery

BEST ATTRACTION

1 Butchart Gardens 2 Royal BC Museum 3 Breakwater Ogden Point

BEST FAMILY ENTERTAINMENT 1 Beacon Hill Petting Zoo 2 Royal BC Museum 3 Saanich Fair

BEST FESTIVAL

1 Pet A Palooza 2 - TIE - Esquimalt Ribfest / Great Canadian Beer Festival 3 Saanich Fairgrounds

BEST LIVE THEATER GROUP

BEST MOVIE THEATER 1 IMAX 2 Silver City, Tillicum 3 Capitol 6 Theatres

BEST MUSEUM

1 Royal BC Museum 2 The Robert Bateman Centre

1 Flying Squirrel 2 Beacon Hill Park 3 Mr. Tubbs Ice Cream Parlor

EATING & DRINKING BEST BAKERY

1 Dutch Bakery & Diner 2 Crust Bakery 3 COBS Bread Bakery

BEST BED & BREAKFAST

1 Point No Point Resort 2 Spinnakers Gastro Brewpub & GuestHouses 3 Abbeymoore Manor Bed & Breakfast Inn

BEST BEER SELECTION

1 Phillips Brewing & Malting 2 The Drake 3 Spinnakers Gastro Brewpub & GuestHouses

BEST BREAKFAST 1 Jam Cafe 2 Floyd’s Diner 3 Blue Fox Cafe

BEST BUSINESS LUNCH

1 Glo Restaurant + Lounge 2 Cactus Club Cafe 3 10 Acres Commons

BEST CATERING

1 Truffles Catering 2 Sizzling Tandoor 3 Toque Catering

Y E A R

BEST CHICKEN WINGS

1 The Tartan Toque 2 Hecklers Bar & Grill 3 1550’s Pub Style Restaurant

BEST CHINESE RESTAURANT 1 J & J Wonton Noodle House 2 Don Mee 3 Lum’s Chinese Restaurant

BEST COCKTAILS

1 Little Jumbo Restaurant and Bar 2 Veneto Kitchen + Bar 3 Clive’s Classic Lounge

BEST COFFEEHOUSE

1 Discovery Coffee 2 TIE- Caffe Fantastico / Habit Coffee 3 Murchie’s Tea & Coffee

BEST DELI

1 Red Barn Market 2 Italian Food Imports 3 Fig Mediterranean Deli

BEST DESSERTS

1 Dutch Bakery & Diner 2 Crust Bakery 3 Beacon Drive In Ltd

BEST FAMILY RESTAURANT 1 Bin 4 Burger Lounge 2 My Chosen Cafe 3 Red Robin

Best of the City Summer 2019 • 27

1 Belfry Theatre 2 Royal & McPherson 3 Victoria Operatic Society

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2 0 1 9

BEST FARMER’S MARKET

BEST LOCAL BREWERY

BEST THAI RESTAURANT

BEST FISH & CHIPS

BEST MEXICAN RESTAURANT

BEST VEGETARIAN RESTAURANT

BEST FOOD TRUCK

BEST MICRO BREW PUB

BEST VIETNAMESE RESTAURANT

1 Esquimalt Farmers Market 2 The Root Cellar Village Green Grocer 3 Moss Street Market 1 Red Fish Blue Fish 2 Barb’s Fish and Chips 3 Fish on Fifth 1 Tacofino 2 Deadbeetz 3 Taco Justice Food Truck

BEST FOR FIRST DATE

1 Glo Restaurant + Lounge 2 Pagliacci’s 3 Stage Wine Bar

BEST GREEK RESTAURANT

1 Ithaka Greek Restaurant 2 Il Greco on the Gorge 3 Maria’s Souvlaki Greek Restaurant

BEST HAMBURGER

1 Bin 4 Burger Lounge 2 Big Wheel Burger 3 The Pink Bicycle

BEST HAPPY HOUR

1 Glo Restaurant + Lounge 2 10 Acres Commons 3 The Collective Wine Bar & Kitchen

BEST ICE CREAM

1 Beacon Drive In Ltd 2 Cold Comfort 3 Parachute Ice Cream

BEST INDIAN RESTAURANT

1 Sizzling Tandoor Restaurant 2 Varsha Indian Kitchen 3 Turmeric Indian Cuisine

BEST ITALIAN RESTAURANT 1 Il Terrazzo 2 Pagliacci’s 3 Pizzeria Prima Strada

BEST JAPANESE RESTAURANT

BEST KID-FRIENDLY RESTAURANT 1 Red Robin 2 Whitespot 3 My Chosen Cafe

1 Cafe Mexico 2 Tacofino 3 La Taquisa

1 Spinnakers Gastro Brewpub & GuestHouses 2 TIE – CANOE Brewpub / Moon Under Water

BEST OUTDOOR PATIO

1 CANOE Brewpub 2 TIE – Glo Restaurant + Lounge / Fireside Grill 3 THE LOCAL

BEST PIZZA

1 Pizzeria Prima Strada 2 Delicious Pizza & Pasta 3 Romeo’s

BEST PUB

1 Irish Times Pub 2 Bard & Banker 3 Spinnakers Gastro Brewpub & Guest Houses

BEST SEAFOOD RESTAURANT

1 Pagliacci’s 2 Nautical Nellies Steak & Seafood House 3 Fishhook

BEST STEAKHOUSE

1 The Keg 2 Brasserie L’Ecole 3 MR MIKES Steakhouse

BEST SUB/SANDWICH

1 Red Barn Market 2 Italian Food Imports 3 Roast Meat & Sandwich Shop

BEST SUNDAY BRUNCH

1 TIE – Jam Cafe / Fireside Grill 2 Marina Restaurant 3 The Village Restaurant

BEST SUSHI

1 Fujiya Foods 2 Ebizo Japanese Restaurant Ltd 3 Sen Zushi

BEST TAPAS

1 Tapa Bar 2 Bodega 3 Stage Wine Bar

Y E A R

1 Sabhai Thai Restaurant 2 Baan Thai Wok & Bar 3 Little Thai Place

1 Be Love 2 Rebar 3 Sizzling Tandoor Restaurant 1 Pho Vy Restaurant 2 Green Leaf Bistro 3 Le Petit Saigon

BEST WINE BAR

1 Stage Wine Bar 2 TIE – The Collective Wine Bar & Kitchen / Vis-a-Vis

BEST WINE SELECTION 1 Everything Wine 2 Cascadia Liquor 3 Vessel Liquor

HEALTH & FITNESS

BEST ACUPUNCTURIST 1 Stillpoint 2 Jing Healing

BEST CHIROPRACTOR

1 Jack Chin Victoria 2 Dr. Sean Payne 3 West Shore Wellness

BEST SKIN CARE CLINIC

1 MD ESTHETICS 2 Cosmedica Laser Centre 3 Rosenthal Clinic

BEST DAY SPA

1 Emerald Day Spa 2 Sante Spa-Bear Mountain Resort 3 Sapphire Day Spa

BEST DENTIST

1 Urban Smiles 2 Royal Oak Dental Clinic 3 Academy Dental

BEST EYE CLINIC

1 Purely Optometry 2 Maycock Eyecare 3 Mayfair Optometric Clinic

BEST PHARMACY

1 Heart Pharmacy 2 Pharmasave 3 London Drugs

Best of the City Summer 2019 • 29

1 The Japanese Village Restaurant 2 Nubo Japanese Tapas 3 Shizen Japanese Restaurant Inc

1 Phillips Brewing & Malting 2 Hoyne Brewing Company 3 Sea Cider

2019 RESULTS LEISURE

BEST ADVENTURE TOURISM 1 Wild Play 2 Horne Lake Caves 3 Adrenaline Zip

BEST ISLAND ATTRACTION 1 Butchart Gardens 2 Cathedral Grove 3 Mount Washington

BEST PLACE FOR AFTERNOON TEA 1 The Empress 2 Murchies 3 White Heather

BEST PLACE TO MEET A MATE 1 Ogden Point Break Water 2 Online Dating 3 Willows Beach

BEST PLACE TO WALK YOUR DOG 1 Dallas Road 2 Beacon Hill Park 3 Esquimalt Lagoon

BEST STAYCATION/ISLAND RESORT

1 Tigh-Na-Mara 2 Kingfisher Oceanside Resort & Spa 3 Wickaninnish Inn Tofino

BEST URBAN HIKING TRAIL 1 Thetis Lake 2 Mount Doug 3 East Sooke Park

BEST WHALE WATCHING

1 Prince of Whales 2 Eagle Wing 3 Earth Ocean Adventures

REAL ESTATE & DEVELOPMENT

BEST NEW COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT

1 Campbell Construction Ltd 2 TIE – Villamar Construction / The Travino

BEST NEW CONDO DEVELOPMENT 1 Belmont Residences 2 Vivid at the Yates

BEST NEW MUTLI RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPEMENT

30 • Best of the City Summer 2019

1 Royal Bay-Gablecraft Homes 2 Villamar 3 Westhills

SERVICES

BEST ACCOUNTING FIRM 1 Canwest Accounting 2 Grant Thornton LLP 3 Hutcheson & Co

BEST AUTO SERVICE / REPAIR CHAIN 1 Big O Tires 2 Kal Tire 3 Mr. Lube

BEST AUTO SERVICE / REPAIR INDEPENDENT 1 Searles Auto Repair 2 Jas Toora Automotive & Transmission 3 Tires Unlimited

BEST BARBERSHOP

1 Brothers Barbershop 2 Status Barber Shop 3 Victory Barbers & Brand

BEST BOOKKEEPING / TAX SERVICE 1 Padgett Business Services 2 Liberty Tax Service 3 Reliable Tax Services

2019 RESULTS LEISURE

BEST ADVENTURE TOURISM 1 Wild Play 2 Horne Lake Caves 3 Adrenaline Zip

BEST ISLAND ATTRACTION 1 Butchart Gardens 2 Cathedral Grove 3 Mount Washington

BEST PLACE FOR AFTERNOON TEA 1 The Empress 2 Murchies 3 White Heather

BEST PLACE TO MEET A MATE 1 Ogden Point Break Water 2 Online Dating 3 Willows Beach

BEST PLACE TO WALK YOUR DOG 1 Dallas Road 2 Beacon Hill Park 3 Esquimalt Lagoon

BEST STAYCATION/ISLAND RESORT

1 Tigh-Na-Mara 2 Kingfisher Oceanside Resort & Spa 3 Wickaninnish Inn Tofino

BEST URBAN HIKING TRAIL 1 Thetis Lake 2 Mount Doug 3 East Sooke Park

BEST WHALE WATCHING

1 Prince of Whales 2 Eagle Wing 3 Earth Ocean Adventures

REAL ESTATE & DEVELOPMENT

BEST NEW COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT

1 Campbell Construction Ltd 2 TIE – Villamar Construction / The Travino

BEST NEW CONDO DEVELOPMENT 1 Belmont Residences 2 Vivid at the Yates

BEST NEW MUTLI RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPEMENT 1 Royal Bay-Gablecraft Homes 2 Villamar 3 Westhills

Voted

Best City

of the

VICTORIA NE WS

SERVICES

BEST ACCOUNTING FIRM 1 Canwest Accounting 2 Grant Thornton LLP 3 Hutcheson & Co

BEST AUTO SERVICE / REPAIR CHAIN 1 Big O Tires 2 Kal Tire 3 Mr. Lube

BEST AUTO SERVICE / REPAIR INDEPENDENT 1 Searles Auto Repair 2 Jas Toora Automotive & Transmission 3 Tires Unlimited

BEST BARBERSHOP

1 Brothers Barbershop 2 Status Barber Shop 3 Victory Barbers & Brand

BEST BOOKKEEPING / TAX SERVICE 1 Padgett Business Services 2 Liberty Tax Service 3 Reliable Tax Services

2 0 1 9

25th

Y E A R

BEST FOR CARPET/UPHOLSTERY CLEANING

BEST LAW FIRM

BEST PEST CONTROL

BEST HAIR SALON

BEST MOVING / STORAGE

BEST PET BOARDING / GROOMING / DAYCARE

BEST HOTEL

BEST MUSICAL INSTRUMENT STORE

BEST PET STORE

BEST HOUSE CLEANING SERVICE

BEST NAIL SALON

BEST PLUMBER

1 Luv-A-Rug Services Inc. 2 Sunny Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning 3 Citrus O 1 Fish Hair Salon 2 Hunt & Gather Hair Company 3 Chatters 1 Oak Bay Beach Hotel 2 Delta Ocean Pointe 3 Fairmont Empress Hotel 1 Molly Maid 2 Mary Poppins Cleaning 3 2 Burley Men Moving Ltd.

BEST INSURANCE PROVIDER

1 HUB International 2 Megson FitzPatrick Insurance Services 3 BCAA

BEST JEWELER

1 Barclay’s Fine Jewellers 2 Paul Mara Jewellers 3 LUGARO - Downtown Victoria

1 League and Williams Lawyers 2 Sitka Law Group 3 Beacon Law Centre 1 2 Burley Men Moving Ltd. 2 Adams Storage 3 Sweenie Moving 1 Long & McQuade Musical Instruments 2 Tom Lee Music 3 Tempo Trend Music 1 Shimmer Body and Nail Spa 2 TIE – Brun Body Bar / Emerald Day Spa

BEST NEW HOME BUILDER 1 LIDA Homes Inc. Custom Home Builders & Renovation Experts 2 Villamar Construction Ltd 3 Abstract Developments

BEST OIL CHANGE

1 Victoria Pest Control 2 Garden City Pest Control 3 Old Island Pest Control

1 Whisker’s Urban Ranch Pet DayCamp 2 Nirvana Pet Resort 3 The Doggy Lounge 1 Pets West 2 Bosley’s by Pet Valu 3 PetSmart 1 Bridgeman Plumbing & Heating Ltd 2 TIE – True Home Plumbing & Gas / Miles Plumbing and Heating 3 Wade Roberts Plumbing

BEST RETIREMENT HOME

1 Amica On The Gorge 2 TIE – The Cridge Centre for the Family / The Wellesley 3 Ross Place Retirement Residence

1 Great Canadian Oil Change 2 Mr. Lube 3 Jiffy Lube

Voted

Best City

of the

VICTORIA NEWS

th 25

Y E A R Best of the City Summer 2019 • 31

30 • Best of the City Summer 2019

2 0 1 9

Voted

Best City

of the

VICTORIA NE WS

2 0 1 9

25th

Y E A R

BEST FOR CARPET/UPHOLSTERY CLEANING

BEST LAW FIRM

BEST PEST CONTROL

BEST HAIR SALON

BEST MOVING / STORAGE

BEST PET BOARDING / GROOMING / DAYCARE

BEST HOTEL

BEST MUSICAL INSTRUMENT STORE

BEST PET STORE

BEST HOUSE CLEANING SERVICE

BEST NAIL SALON

BEST PLUMBER

BEST INSURANCE PROVIDER

1 HUB International 2 Megson FitzPatrick Insurance Services 3 BCAA

BEST JEWELER

1 Barclay’s Fine Jewellers 2 Paul Mara Jewellers 3 LUGARO - Downtown Victoria

BEST NEW HOME BUILDER 1 LIDA Homes Inc. Custom Home Builders & Renovation Experts 2 Villamar Construction Ltd 3 Abstract Developments

BEST OIL CHANGE

1 Victoria Pest Control 2 Garden City Pest Control 3 Old Island Pest Control 1 Whiskers Resort & Pet Spa 2 Nirvana Pet Resort 3 The Doggy Lounge 1 Pets West 2 Bosley’s by Pet Valu 3 PetSmart

1 Bridgeman Plumbing & Heating Ltd 2 TIE – True Home Plumbing & Gas / Miles Plumbing and Heating 3 Wade Roberts Plumbing

BEST RETIREMENT HOME

1 Amica On The Gorge 2 TIE – The Cridge Centre for the Family / The Wellesley 3 Ross Place Retirement Residence

1 Great Canadian Oil Change 2 Mr. Lube 3 Jiffy Lube

Voted

Best City

of the

VICTORIA NEWS

2 0 1 9

th 25

Y E A R Best of the City Summer 2019 • 31

2019 RESULTS LEISURE

BEST ADVENTURE TOURISM 1 Wild Play 2 Horne Lake Caves 3 Adrenaline Zip

BEST ISLAND ATTRACTION 1 Butchart Gardens 2 Cathedral Grove 3 Mount Washington

BEST PLACE FOR AFTERNOON TEA 1 The Empress 2 Murchies 3 White Heather

BEST PLACE TO MEET A MATE 1 Ogden Point Break Water 2 Online Dating 3 Willows Beach

BEST PLACE TO WALK YOUR DOG 1 Dallas Road 2 Beacon Hill Park 3 Esquimalt Lagoon

BEST STAYCATION/ISLAND RESORT

1 Tigh-Na-Mara 2 Kingfisher Oceanside Resort & Spa 3 Wickaninnish Inn Tofino

BEST URBAN HIKING TRAIL 1 Thetis Lake 2 Mount Doug 3 East Sooke Park

BEST WHALE WATCHING

1 Prince of Whales 2 Eagle Wing 3 Earth Ocean Adventures

REAL ESTATE & DEVELOPMENT

BEST NEW COMMERCIAL DEVELOPMENT

1 Campbell Construction Ltd 2 TIE – Villamar Construction / The Travino

BEST NEW CONDO DEVELOPMENT 1 Belmont Residences 2 Vivid at the Yates

BEST NEW MUTLI RESIDENTIAL DEVELOPEMENT 1 Royal Bay-Gablecraft Homes 2 Villamar 3 Westhills

Voted

Best City

of the

VICTORIA NE WS

SERVICES

BEST ACCOUNTING FIRM 1 Canwest Accounting 2 Grant Thornton LLP 3 Hutcheson & Co

BEST AUTO SERVICE / REPAIR CHAIN 1 Big O Tires 2 Kal Tire 3 Mr. Lube

BEST AUTO SERVICE / REPAIR INDEPENDENT 1 Searles Auto Repair 2 Jas Toora Automotive & Transmission 3 Tires Unlimited

BEST BARBERSHOP

1 Brothers Barbershop 2 Status Barber Shop 3 Victory Barbers & Brand

BEST BOOKKEEPING / TAX SERVICE 1 Padgett Business Services 2 Liberty Tax Service 3 Reliable Tax Services

2 0 1 9

25th

Y E A R

BEST FOR CARPET/UPHOLSTERY CLEANING

BEST LAW FIRM

BEST PEST CONTROL

BEST HAIR SALON

BEST MOVING / STORAGE

BEST PET BOARDING / GROOMING / DAYCARE

BEST HOTEL

BEST MUSICAL INSTRUMENT STORE

BEST PET STORE

BEST HOUSE CLEANING SERVICE

BEST NAIL SALON

BEST PLUMBER

BEST INSURANCE PROVIDER

1 HUB International 2 Megson FitzPatrick Insurance Services 3 BCAA

BEST JEWELER

1 Barclay’s Fine Jewellers 2 Paul Mara Jewellers 3 LUGARO - Downtown Victoria

BEST NEW HOME BUILDER 1 LIDA Homes Inc. Custom Home Builders & Renovation Experts 2 Villamar Construction Ltd 3 Abstract Developments

BEST OIL CHANGE

1 Victoria Pest Control 2 Garden City Pest Control 3 Old Island Pest Control

BEST RETIREMENT HOME

1 Amica On The Gorge 2 TIE – The Cridge Centre for the Family / The Wellesley 3 Ross Place Retirement Residence

1 Great Canadian Oil Change 2 Mr. Lube 3 Jiffy Lube

Voted

Best City

of the

VICTORIA NEWS

th 25

Y E A R Best of the City Summer 2019 • 31

30 • Best of the City Summer 2019

2 0 1 9

Romance Biography History Horror Atlas

VICTORIA NEWS

Fiction

2 0 1 9

th 25

Y E A R

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32 â€¢ Best of the City Summer 2019

VICTORI A NEW S

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734 Fort St. | 250-361-4447 | www.RussellBooks.com |

S IA NEW VICTOR

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Check out our Vintage Room at 738 Fort Street

Best City

of the

20 11

Western Non-Fiction

58 Years of business & still growing! Locally owned & operated.

of the

Voted

YEAR

Science-Fiction

Voted

20 13

Biography ferenceAtlas Novels History

Best 1 City 2014

Fiction

2016

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20th

Voted

Best City

of the

VICTORIA NE WS

2 0 1 9

BEST RV SALES AND SERVICE

BEST CHILDREN’S CLOTHING STORE

BEST GARDEN STORE/NURSERY

BEST TATTOO STUDIO

BEST CONSIGNMENT STORE

BEST GROCERY STORE

BEST TIRE SHOP

BEST CRAFT STORE

BEST HEALTH FOOD STORE

BEST TRAVEL AGENT

BEST EYEGLASS STORE

BEST HOME APPLIANCE STORE

BEST U-BREW / U-WINE

BEST FLOORING / CARPET STORE

BEST HOME ELECTRONICS STORE

BEST VETERINARIAN

BEST FLORIST

BEST HOME FURNISHING STORE

SHOPPING

BEST FOAM STORE

1 Arbutus RV 2 Galaxy RV 3 Peden RV Superstore

1 Urge Tattoo 2 Painted Lotus Studios 3 Universal Tattoo 1 Kal Tire 2 Costco Wholesale 3 Big O Tires 1 Flight Centre 2 Expedia Cruise Victoria 3 Marlin Travel 1 Flying Fish Winery 2 Black Tie Wines 3 The Wine Maker

1 Vic West Pet Hospital 2 McKenzie Veterinary Services 3 Juan De Fuca Veterinary Clinic

BEST BICYCLE SHOP

1 Russ Hay’s The Bicycle Shop 2 North Park Bike Shop 3 Trek Bicycle Store

BEST BOAT / MARINE STORE 1 SG Power 2 Trotac Marine 3 Sherwood Marine Centre

BEST BOOKSTORE NEW 1 Bolen Books 2 Munro’s Books 3 Russell Books

BEST BOOKSTORE USED

BEST BRIDAL / FORMAL WEAR 1 Shades of White Bridal 2 Blush Bridal 3 Luz Bridal Boutique

BEST BUTCHER

1 Glenwood Meats 2 Red Barn Market 3 Carnivore Meats & More

1 Good Things Oak Bay 2 Baja Rosi’s Consignment 3 Sailor Jack Consignment

1 Michaels 2 Cloth Castle 3 Knotty by Nature Fibre Arts 1 Maycock Eyecare 2 Costco Wholesale 3 Goo Goo Goggles Optical 1 Hourigans Flooring 2 United Floors 3 Fuzzy Wuzzy Carpets 1 Brown’s The Florist 2 Poppies Floral Art 3 Thrifty Foods 1 The Foam Zone 2 Go Rest 3 The Foam Shop Victoria

BEST FOR BBQ’S 1 Capital Iron 2 Costco 3 Canadian Tire

BEST FOR PRODUCE STORE 1 Root Cellar 2 Thrifty Foods 3 Red Barn Market

BEST FOR VITAMIN’S/SUPPLEMENTS 1 The Vitamin Shop 2 Lifestyle Markets 3 Health Essentials, Tillicum

BEST FURNITURE STORE CHAIN 1 The Brick 2 Leon’s Furniture 3 Scan tDesigns Furniture

BEST FURNITURE STORE INDEPENDENT 1 Dodd’s Furniture & Mattress 2 Max Furniture 3 Sager’s Home Living

Y E A R

1 GardenWorks - Saanich 2 Elk Lake Garden Centre Ltd. 3 Russell Nursery 1 Thrifty’s 2 Country Grocer 3 Save-On-Foods

1 Lifestyle Markets 2 The Vitamin Shop 3 Whole Foods Market

1 Trail Appliance 2 Coast Appliances 3 Lansdowne Appliance Gallery

1 Best Buy 2 London Drugs 3 TIE – Atlas Audio / Visions Electronics 1 HomeSense 2 TIE– Bed Bath & Beyond / Chintz & Company

BEST HOME IMPROVEMENT STORE CHAIN 1 The Home Depot 2 Home Hardware 3 Lowe’s

BEST HOME IMPROVEMENT STORE INDEPENDENT

1 Castle Home Centre 2 Lumberworld 3 Habitat For Humanity Victoria ReStore Uptown

BEST KITCHEN STORE 1 Capital Iron 2 Cook Culture 3 Penna and Company

BEST LIGHTING STORE

1 McLaren’s 2 Pine Lighting 3 Illuminations Lighting Solutions

BEST LIQUOR STORE 1 Cascadia Liquor 2 BC Liquor Stores 3 Vessel Liquor

BEST MALL / SHOPPING CENTER 1 Mayfair Shopping Centre 2 Hillside Shopping Centre 3 Uptown Mall

Best of the City Summer 2019 • 33

1 Russell Books 2 Beacon Bookse 3 The Salvation Army Thrift Store

1 Sailor Jack Consignment 2 Momease Baby Boutique 3 The Children’s Place

25th

Vic West Pet Hospital 778.265.4500 526 Esquimalt Rd. Victoria B.C. V9A 3L4

Thank you Victoria!

For over 59 years we have served the community as a family owned and operated business. We are the leaders in LED lighting, offering the largest

34 â€˘ Best of the City Summer 2019

Wellness exams and immunizations Medical treatments In house laboratory diagnostics Dentistry Surgery Digital Xray Cryotherapy

CLINIC LOCATED AT

526 Esquimalt Road, Victoria, B.C Tel: 778-265-4500

CLINIC HOURS 8:00 AM - 7:00 PM Monday - Friday 10:00 AM - 4:00 PM Saturday | Closed Sunday

Vancouver Island with showrooms in both Victoria and Nanaimo.

For voting us

E WINN

Voted

Best City

of the

VICTORIA NEWS

for the past 10 years.

VICTORIA 3400 DOUGLAS ST 250.475.2561

TIM

Services include:

We have the largest selection and inventory of lighting on

TEN

Accepting new patients Cats and Dogs Walk ins welcome Open Monday through Saturday

selection in Western Canada.

2 0 1 9

th 25

Y E A R

NANAIMO 2520 BOWEN ROAD 250.758.0138

www.mclarenlighting.com

mclarenlighting.com

Voted

Best City

of the

VICTORIA NEWS

2 0 1 9

BEST MATTRESS STORE

1 Ashley Homestore 2 Sleep Country 3 Dodd’s Furniture & Mattress

BEST MEN’S CLOTHING STORE 1 Outlooks for Men Victoria 2 DG Bremner, Sidney, BC 3 Complex Clothing

BEST MOTORCYCLES OR SCOOTERS 1 Action Motorcycle’s 2 SG Power 3 Harley Davidson

BEST OUTDOOR OUTFITTERS 1 MEC Victoria 2 Robinson’s Outdoor Store 3 Island Outfitters

BEST PAINT STORE 1 Cloverdale Paint 2 The Home Depot 3 Pacific Paint Inc

BEST PLACE TO PURCHASE A NEW VEHICLE 1 Jim Pattison Toyota Victoria 2 Campus Honda 3 Pacific Mazda

BEST PLACE TO PURCHASE A PRE-OWNED VEHICLE 1 Galaxy Motors 2 Jim Pattison Toyota Victoria 3 Howie’s Car Corral

BEST POOL / SPA STORE

1 Capital Iron 2 Vintage Hot Tubs Pool, Patio, and Billiards 3 Twillight Hot Tubs & Home Leisure Centre

BEST SEAFOOD STORE 1 Finest At Sea 2 Thrifty Foods 3 Oak Bay Seafood

BEST SHOE STORE

1 Walk In Comfort 2 TIE – The Cobbler / Heart and Sole Shoes 3 Designer Shoe Warehouse, Victoria

BEST SPORTING GOODS STORE 1 Capital Iron 2 Kirby’s 3 Island Outfitters

BEST THRIFT STORE

1 Win (Women in Need) 2 Salvation Army Old island Highway 3 Value Village, Store Street, Victoria BC

BEST TOY STORE

1 Mastermind Toys 2 Buddies Toy Store 3 Toys”R”Us

BEST WINDOW COVERINGS

1 Ruffell & Brown Window Fashions 2 Saffron Window Fashions & Drapery 3 Budget Blinds & Window Coverings

Y E A R

BEST WOMEN’S CLOTHING STORE 1 Just for you Fashions Ltd 2 Aritzia 3 Flavour

SPORTS & RECREATION BEST GOLF COURSE

1 Bear Mountain Golf 2 Olympic View Golf Course 3 Cedar Hill Golf Course

BEST HEALTH & FITNESS CLUB

1 YMCA-YWCA 2 Fierce Studio Jiu Jitsu and Yoga Therapy 3 Studio 4 Athletics

BEST MARTIAL ARTS

1 Van Isle Brazilian Jiu Jitsu 2 Fierce Studio Jiu Jitsu and Yoga Therapy 3 Zuma Martial Arts

BEST SWIMMING POOL OR WATERPARK 1 Commonwealth Pool 2 Esquimalt Recreation Centre 3 Oak Bay Recreation Centre

BEST YOGA STUDIO

1 MokSana Yoga Center 2 FierceHeart Yoga 3 Studio Vancouver Island YMCA/YWCA

BEST WINE SHOP

1 Everything Wine 2 Vessel Liquor 3 BC Liquor Store, Fort & Foul Bay

Thank you to everyone for voting and for your continued support

Quality Dental Hygiene Care With a Smile

✔ Do you have an upcoming wedding, reunion, graduation, or getaway? ✔ Air polishing is the #1 recommended treatment for braces. ✔ Do you have embarrassing stains? The most e ective and e cient way to remove surface stains and plaque.

Give Focus on Dental Hygiene a call or drop by to see about availability - your teeth areas unique as you are.

#6 - 1701 Douglas St. • (778) 433-6639

141 Menzies St. Victoria 250.590.1931 www.focusondh.com

Best of the City Summer 2019 • 35

Air Polishing brighten your teeth for that special occasion or just because

VOTED BEST NEW CONDO DEVELOPMENT!

36 • Best of the City Summer 2019

Greater Victoria’s Original BEST OF THE CITY in Real Estate & Development

BELMONTRESIDENCES.COM Winner Announced June 20, 2019

ADVERTISING FEATURE

BUSINESS PROFILE: J&J Wonton Noodle House

BESTof the CITY FINALIST

J&J WONTON NOODLE HOUSE Downtown restaurant mainstay expands its menu options

“We’ve had a gluten-free menu for almost four years now,” she says, noting that they were one of the first Chinese restaurants in Victoria to add these specially prepared and cooked food choices. “I would say today probably 20 to 30 per cent of our menu is gluten-free items,” Jasmine says. “People tell me they haven’t been able to eat Chinese food for 20 years and they’re so happy they’ve found us.”

Voted Voted

Best 1 1 City City

of of the the

VICTORIA NEWS NEWS VICTORIA

Reputations mean a lot in the restaurant business, and the people at J&J Wonton Noodle House on Fort Street in Victoria take theirs very seriously. The friendly and prompt meal service are a big part of that equation, but the great selection of tasty and flavourful authentic Chinese food is what keeps people coming back and made them the 2018 winner for Best Chinese Food as selected by voters in the Best of the City.

While that change has brought back some diners and introduced a number of new customers to J&J’s, other favourite items bring people down.

With dozens of items on their four separate menus, including numerous seafood options – not to mention special combos for one available for solo diners or busy workers on a time crunch – there’s something for everyone’s tastes here.

The barbecued duck is one of those items. Available in various forms: in noodle soup, in halved form as a side (lunch) or main (dinner) order, or combined with rice, it often sells out early due to its popularity, Jasmine says.

Restaurant manager Jasmine Sun points out that J&J’s has not only maintained its quality food and personable service over its 23 years downtown, it has adjusted its offerings with the changing demands of customers.

The smiling face of owner Michael Xue, the restaurant’s original head chef who bought the business six years ago, is ever present in the kitchen with his hard-working staff. He invites anyone to come down and try the food and say hi. There’s always something special being cooked up.

Tues-Sat, lunch from 11-2 & dinner from 4:30-8:30

1012 Fort St. • 250-383-0680

2 2 0 0 1 1 8 9

th 2245th

YY EE AA RR

Phone orders can be made for pickup, find their menu online at jjnoodlehouse.ca

Thanks Everyone!

250.598.8555 | marinarestaurant.com | 1327 Beach Drive at the Oak Bay Marina

Best of the City Summer 2019 • 37

We’re proud to be nominated again this year, and would like to thank everyone who made it possible, our producers, farmers, growers and fishermen, our staff and most important of all, you, our customers.

30% OFF Shorts • Capris • Jeans 40% OFF Books • Media 50% OFF Kidswear • Toys JUNE 21st Greater Victoria Locations 855 Shawnigan-Mill Bay Road BC V0R 2P2

7181 West Saanich Road Brentwood, BC V8M 1P7

1551 Cedar Hill X Victoria, BC V8P 2P3

990 Hillside Ave Victoria, BC V8T 2A1

525 Johnson Street Victoria, BC V8W 1M2

102-3934 Quadra Street Victoria BC V8X 1J6

305 Island Highway View Royal, BC V9B 1G9

777 Goldstream Ave Langford, BC V9B 2X4

The Shelbourne Plaza Deep in the

of o Shelbourne Valley - Shelbourne at Cedar hill X road

TD Canada Trust

A&W Restaurant

38 • Best of the City Summer 2019

Wild Birds Unlimited

“Come visit us at Shelbourne Plaza. After all, we’re friends and neighbours!”

Oregano’s Pizza Cards & Gifts and Bistro

Frontrunners

City Nails

Mac’s Cycle Centre

Heart Pharmacy

Fairway Market

Ink & Toner Medic

Liquor Distribution Br.

Booster Juice

Scotiabank

Cobs Bakery

Merit Travel

STARBUCKS

M&M Food Market

Little Thai Place

Squeaky’s Laundromat

City of gardens GLORIOUS BLOOMS, SOOTHING WATER FEATURES AND WONDROUS WALKWAYS AWAIT VISITORS AT VICTORIA’S BEAUTIFUL GARDENS. The Butchart Gardens  When Robert and Jennie Butchart came to live at Tod Inlet on Vancouver Island they named their home “Benvenuto” — Italian for “Welcome.” Starting with sweet pea seeds and a rose bush, Jennie began a lifelong project to create a garden. With great vision, she transformed a barren limestone quarry, beginning what is now the Sunken Garden at the world famous The Butchart Gardens, located a short drive from Victoria on the Saanich Peninsula. Today, more than 100 years later, the breathtaking gardens stretch across 22 hectares of the 53-hectare estate and are visited by close to a million people each year. Open year-round, The Butchart Gardens are pure magic no matter what the season. Extend your visit in the award-winning Dining Room Restaurant, partake in Afternoon Tea, enjoy the summer’s Saturday Fireworks and Night Illuminations and return during the holiday season for the month-long seasonal light-up.

 Beacon Hill Park The crown jewel of Victoria’s city parks, Beacon Hill could take a full day to explore. With its formal history reaching back to 1882, when the Province of British Columbia granted 75 hectares to the City of Victoria to be held in trust, the park encompasses a vast array of landscapes, including native plant habitats, manicured gardens and playing fields, historic buildings, structures and monuments. Designated a municipal heritage site in 2009, Beacon Hill Park offers something for all ages, including playgrounds, a water park, children’s zoo and duck ponds for the little ones; as well as a putting green, bandshell (featuring summer concerts), accessible walking paths through formal gardens and many scenic spots to spread out a picnic blanket and savour some of Victoria’s delicious culinary treats.

Continued on page 41

Springless Mini Trampoline

Kenrico Lifetime Ion Shower Head

Triangle Healing offers an amazing range of well-researched products that enhance well-being!

250-370-1818 | 770 Spruce Ave., Victoria | www.trianglehealing.com

New Designer Series Blender

The Real Champion of Juicers

Everything you could want in a juicer - can handle wheatgrass, pasta and baby foods... all without destructive heat.

cleanse • replenish • revitalize

Best of the City Summer 2019 • 39

Blendtec® Blender

Super-grateful, Victoria, for voting us in again!

We love being your neighbourhood bike shop.

s! Come see us for all your e-bike need

curated selection

broad range of well researched & hand-picked natural health products

keto-friendly foods

low carb food and snack options to suit your healthy lifestyle

barefoot shoes

largest selection of barefoot footwear on the Island

North Park Bike Shop 1833 Cook Street || Victoria, BC

(250) 386-2453

www.myhealthessentials.ca 101-300 gorge rd. w, victoria, bc | 250-590-5524

THANK YOU VICTORIA! FOR VOTING US BEST WINE STORE 11 YEARS IN A ROW!

http://www.everythingwine.ca/

DID YOU KNOW ?

WE DELIVER!

FREE

U SP EN D $2 00 FR EE DE LIV ERY W HE N YO Y JO EN D AN E LIN ON SH OP

WINE TASTINGS EVERYDAY FROM 2-6PM

40 â€¢ Best of the City Summer 2019

VISIT US SOON FOR:

ABLE WINES FROM VERY AFFORD - INCREDIBLE SELECTION OF D VINTAGE WINES ANY DAY TO PREMIUM AN TO HELP PERTS WHO WOULD LOVE - HIGHLY TRAINED WINE EX L CIA LE OF SOMETHING SPE YOU FIND THAT NEXT BOTT ERNATIONAL WINES - OVER 4000 LOCAL AND INT ED WAITING TO BE DISCOVER HASE 12 BOTTLES OR MORE - SAVE 5% WHEN YOU PURC BETTER - GOVERNMENT PRICES OR LANGFORD Unit 131-2401 Millstream Rd. (Located in Millstream Village, Near Costco)

HOURS: Mon - Sat: 10am-9pm Sun: 11am-7pm

CONTACT: 250-474-3959

EverythingWineInc

EWineBC

http://www.everythingwine.ca/

City of gardens  Abkhazi

Garden

Enjoy afternoon tea and take a tour with one of Abkhazi Garden’s volunteer guides for some incredible tales, beautiful surroundings and stunning greenery from around the world. Plant lovers, history buffs and anyone who loves nature will enjoy the guided walk through the gardens as they learn all about the plants, the land, the house and the couple who created this amazing garden. The entrance to Abkhazi Garden is via an ornate black gate, which only hints at the beauty that lies beyond. Parking is on the street. Call for seasonal hours; located at 1964 Fairfield Road. Admission to the garden is by donation.

 Victoria

Gardens

Butterfly

The temperature inside the Victoria Butterfly Gardens is a comfy 26 degrees Celsius, the perfect climate for the 70 species of butterflies that flitter through the facility. From the rainforest-dwelling Menelaus blue morpho butterfly to the lacewing butterfly from the Philippines and the giant atlas moth from South East Asia, the spacious, tropically-planted indoor venue is filled with exotic colour and delicate winged beauty. The Victoria Butterfly Gardens, located in Brentwood Bay, is also home to iguanas, flamingos, free-flying tropical birds and poison dart frogs. There are ponds filled with koi fish, 200 species of tropical plants (including a carnivorous plant!) and warm air rich with the scent of the tropics. Ticket admission includes access to the insectarium, where leafcutter ants and other insects and invertebrates are safely observed from behind glass.

Funeral Arrangements Made in the Comfort of Your Home • Traditional Burial • Obituaries • Locally Owned

Call 24/7: 778.440.8500 #5 - 831 Devonshire Road, Victoria www.earthsoption.com earthsoption.com

Thank you for voting us one of Victoria’s Best Hotels for 2019

Learn more about our Endless Summer Rate at

WWW.OAKBAYBEACHHOTEL.COM

Best of the City Summer 2019 • 41

• Low Cost Cremation • Green Burial • Pre-Planning Arrangements

T H A N K YO U, V I C T O RI A , F O R YO U R CO N T I N U O U S S U P P O R T T H RO U G H O U T T H E Y E A R S !

1 2 0 1 9

TESTIMONIAL

“Great eat service! Everyone was really r helpful and friendly. No pressur essure at all and they listened to what we wanted.”

3050 Douglas Street, Victoria, BC | (250) 386-3516 | JPToyotaVictoria.com

No bars, no springs, no sagging. the comfort Sleeper™ is in a category by itself. It’s not only a gorgeous piece of furniture. Solid platforms provide even support for the full-length, high-density foam or gel mattress. and, the patented mechanism opens and closes almost effortlessly. No other sleeper is as comfortable, because no other sleeper compares. available in 13 styles in Fabric or Leather.

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2019

42 • Best of the City Summer 2019

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BEST HOME FURNITURE STORE: INDEPENDANT

Complimentary Design serviCe 1802 Government Street www.sagers.ca 250.386.3841 | SaGerS.ca mon-Sat 9:30-5:30

Guest can enjoy the Veneto Bar Ristorante featuring northern Italian inspired cuisine and a ‘highly elevated cocktail list’ along with 1,100 unique bottles of wine. (Submitted by Kirsten Kost)

Danilo Danzo, owner of Hotel Rialto, was the first to begin gentrifying the corner of downtown on Pandora and Douglas when he purchased the old Hotel Douglas to restore it to its former glory. (Submitted by Kirsten Kost)

Hotel Rialto, a slice of northern Italy on the west coast THE PERFECT PLACE FOR VISITORS WANTING AN AUTHENTIC VICTORIA EXPERIENCE Kendra Crighton

mmigrating to Canada from northern Italy, Danilo Danzo wanted nothing more than a comfy bed to sleep in. Choosing to stay at Hotel Douglas, he was enthralled by the grandness of the place. Sitting in his room he thought to himself ‘one day, can you imagine if I could own this hotel?’ Fast forward to a little over a decade ago, after creating a successful property management business, Danzo was able to fulfill that dream and purchased the hotel. Saddened by the state of what was once a beautiful place to stay that had turned into a “hotel that people would pay by the hour,” says Kirsten Kost, vice president of sales and marketing for Mairet Hotels, Danzo was the first to

begin gentrifying that corner of downtown and renaming it to Hotel Rialto and restoring it to the original grandness. “That got the ball rolling and all the other developments started around it,” she says. Now, the hotel boasts an Italian flare remnant of Danzo’s Italian roots, with 56 rooms in the heart of Victoria. Close to Canada’s oldest Chinatown, endless bars, restaurants and local boutique shopping scattered around the hotel, guests are greeted by a complimentary cheese plate at check-in. “We’ve heard and seen that people want an authentic experience not just the typical Victoria you might see in a postcard,” says Kost. “That sense of home and the boutique nature of our hotel — it’s not a cookie cutter.” Upon entering Hotel Rialto, located at 653 Pan-

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dora Ave., guests are greeted by a complimentary cheese plate at check-in and then ushered into beautiful rooms that include free coffee, tea and wireless internet. Guest can enjoy the Veneto Bar Ristorante featuring northern Italian inspired cuisine and a ‘highly elevated cocktail list’ along with 1,100 unique bottles of wine. Offering a ‘Go Green’ program where guests can choose to decline room service completely which decreases a room’s hydro use by 37 per cent, waste management by 50 per cent, gas by three per cent and water and sewage by 11 per cent. As an incentive, guests will receive a $10 credit to be used at the Veneto Bar Ristorante. For more information on the hotel visit www.hotelrialto.ca.

Thank you VICTORIA Voted

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Oak Bay Village Night Market popular city wide MORE THAN 100 LOCAL VENDORS FEATURED Kevin Menz ak Bay’s Village Night Market is officially underway for the season. The markets showcase vendors selling fresh and local produce, baked and canned goods, sauces, condiments and sweets, as well as a variety of wares, including wood-turned bowls, greeting cards, glass art, jewelry and soaps. Wine, beer, cider and spirits are also featured, as is live music and entertainment. More than 100 local vendors take part in the events. All artisan items in the market are made by the seller, giving market patrons the opportunity to connect with the maker. The markets, which run from 4 to 8 p.m., are held on the second Wednesdays of the summer months — June, July, August and September — on Oak Bay Avenue, between Monterey and Wilmot Place.

Hundreds flocked to the first Oak Bay Night Market of the year, June 12, on Oak Bay Avenue. (Travis Paterson/News Staff)

It’s no secret Romeo’s has been serving Victoria’s Best Pizza for over 46 years! We would like to thank all our customers for supporting us over the last 24 years, proud to be in company of the Best of the City! Traditional Greek Cuisine Dine in or carry out • Licensed Patio Open 7 days a week for lunch and dinner Discover Flavour! 9812 2nd st, Sidney • 250 656 9944

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Long days and giving back mark Gordy Dodd’s 42 years in business GORDY DODD EARNS CHAMBER’S LIFETIME ACHIEVEMENT AWARD

ordy Dodd’s 42-year career started with 16-hour days in the original Dodd’s Furniture showroom. It was 1977, 10 years after he arrived in Canada from India. As an independent furniture retailer, Dodd had to travel to the mainland to pick up furniture. He couldn’t afford the benefit of shipping trucks dropping off bulk orders, nor did he and his wife Ravinder have anywhere to store the furniture. There was no room for an office and they turned what would have been a janitor closet into a makeshift nursery with a crib so the kids, their son Love and their daughter Aman, could nap. “I’d be on the morning ferry to the mainland to pick up furniture,” Dodd said. “My wife was looking after customers. I’d come back and if she had sold anything, I had to deliver it myself. That’s the type of life I had, 14 to 16 hours a day.” Last month Dodd was honoured by the Chamber of Commerce with the Governors’ Lifetime Achievement Award at the annual Business Awards Gala. Dodd was recognized in particular for his philanthropist and community efforts in addition to his dedication as a business owner who now employs 70 people at three stores

on the Island. “I’ve had other awards, and this one is even more special,” Dodd said. “They told me they appreciate the community work I do, and I appreciate that. They also told me they liked that I was entertaining and that was a different way to sell.” From the beginning Dodd was driven to be successful as a new Canadian. In 1982, the Vic Trader store on Finlayson went under and Dodd took the opportunity to leave Quadra Village and move into the space. It was a 12,000 square-foot, single-storey building and it was too big for Dodd’s business. He asked the landlord for half the store space and the landlord told Dodd to find a subtenant. So Dodd began lobbying other businesses to move in. His search gained momentum when he started calling around to mainland businesses that had considered expanding to Greater Victoria. “I found a carpet [retailer] from Richmond. They took half of it but after three years they went bankrupt,” Dodd said. By then it was 1985 and Dodd was able to take over the entire space. Then in 1990, the landlord offered Dodd the chance to buy the building. By 1997, however, the

“We wanted to make something that our children will remember, so they would know that I had done something”

Gordy Dodd receiving the The Governors’ Lifetime Achievement Award at the Chamber of Commerce awards on May 16. Dodd was recognized for his outstanding leadership in the community and business accomplishments over the decades. (Chamber of Commerce photo)

building was in bad shape. “It was actually an old bowling alley, I’m sure there are still a few people around who will remember that,” Dodd said. “It was leaking, and we needed repairs. We decided to demolish the building.” While the current two-storey building on Finlayson was being built Dodd moved into an interim location on Douglas a block south of Finlayson by Spruce Avenue. The current Finlayson building was finished in 2000. Dodd’s has become a family business with Love and Aman running the operations. “We wanted to make something

that our children will remember, so they would know that I had done something,” Dodd said. “These are the kinds of things we learned from the old country culture.”

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Cruise terminal welcomes eight million plus A newlywed marked a milestone as the eight millionth visitor to the Victoria Cruise Ship Terminal at Ogden Point earlier this spring. Meghan Lorenzon and her spouse Brent Petkus arrived on the Norwegian Joy, welcomed by Lekwungen Dancers at Pier A South. Lorenzon, of Florida, was celebrated during a short ceremony before being whisked away for a tour of the city. “Each million-passenger milestone is a significant moment for any port of call, and we’re excited to welcome our eight millionth passenger this early in our 2019 season,” said Lindsay Gaunt, director, cruise development for the Greater Victoria Harbour Authority. “We’ve worked with our local partners to ensure that the passenger and their spouse are able to choose from a selection of experiences to enjoy the best of the city during their visit.” As Canada’s busiest cruise port of call, the Victoria Cruise Ship Terminal at Ogden Point will welcome more than 260 calls and 700,000 passengers throughout the 2019 season. The full cruise schedule is available at gvha.ca.

The Norwegian Joy, sister ship to the Norwegian Bliss and celebrating her inaugural season in Victoria, is 333 metres long and carries 3,883 passengers. Features of the ship include the Norwegian Joy Speedway, a twolevel go-kart race track; outdoor laser tag; Galaxy Pavilion VR and 4D theatre; mini golf, and an aqua park. This year, Victoria also saw the largest ship to visit the pier, the Ovation of the Seas, on May 12, though Gaunt said it was a close call whether the ship could arrive or not. The GVHA had planned on building an extended dolphin pier at Pier B to accommodate the size of the ship, but

in December a key piece of steel for the project tumbled off a cargo ship and into the ocean. “So, we’re circling back and will have that in for the 2020 season, and in the meantime, the Ovation will dock at Pier

A South,” Gaunt said. The harbour authority expects the terminal will welcome its 10 millionth passenger by 2021. -With files from Christine van Reeuwyk

Cruise Ship Schedule DATE

FROM

ETA

CARNIVAL LEGEND OVATION OF THE SEAS CELEBRITY SOLSTICE REGATTA NORWEGIAN JOY EURODAM RUBY PRINCESS QUEEN ELIZABETH OOSTERDAM STAR PRINCESS NORWEGIAN BLISS AMSTERDAM AZAMARA QUEST CARNIVAL LEGEND GRAND PRINCESS OVATION OF THE SEAS CELEBRITY SOLSTICE NORWEGIAN JOY EURODAM RUBY PRINCESS OOSTERDAM STAR PRINCESS NORWEGIAN BLISS AMSTERDAM REGATTA CARNIVAL LEGEND OVATION OF THE SEAS MAASDAM CELEBRITY SOLSTICE SEVEN SEAS MARINER NORWEGIAN JOY EURODAM RUBY PRINCESS GRAND PRINCESS OOSTERDAM STAR PRINCESS NORWEGIAN BLISS AMSTERDAM REGATTA CARNIVAL LEGEND DISNEY WONDER OVATION OF THE SEAS CELEBRITY SOLSTICE NORWEGIAN JOY EURODAM RUBY PRINCESS OOSTERDAM STAR PRINCESS NORWEGIAN BLISS CRYSTAL SYMPHONY CARNIVAL LEGEND GRAND PRINCESS SEVEN SEAS MARINER OVATION OF THE SEAS REGATTA CELEBRITY SOLSTICE

Ketchikan Tracey Arm Inside Passa Ketchikan Icy Point Ketchikan Ketchikan Sitka Ketchikan Skagway Ketchikan Sitka Ketchikan Ketchikan Sitka Tracey Arm Inside Passa Skagway Ketchikan Ketchikan Ketchikan Skagway Ketchikan Skagway Ketchikan Ketchikan Tracey Arm San Francisc Inside Passa Prince Ruper Icy Point Ketchikan Ketchikan Tracey Arm Ketchikan Skagway Ketchikan Sitka Ketchikan Ketchikan Sitka Tracey Arm Inside Passa Skagway Ketchikan Ketchikan Ketchikan Skagway Ketchikan Prince Ruper Ketchikan Ketchikan Wrangell Tracey Arm Sitka Inside Passa

19:30 9:00 17:30 9:00 12:00 18:00 19:00 10:00 18:00 19:00 20:30 13:00 8:00 19:30 7:00 9:00 17:30 16:00 18:00 19:00 18:00 19:00 20:30 18:00 9:00 19:30 9:00 14:00 17:30 8:00 12:00 18:00 19:00 7:00 18:00 19:00 20:30 18:00 13:00 19:30 10:00 9:00 17:30 16:00 18:00 19:00 18:00 19:00 20:30 8:00 19:30 7:00 13:00 9:00 13:00 17:30

ETD

23:59 18:00 23:59 18:00 22:00 23:30 23:59 18:00 23:30 23:59 23:59 23:00 23:00 23:59 14:00 18:00 23:59 23:59 23:30 23:59 23:30 23:59 23:59 23:30 23:59 23:59 18:00 23:00 23:59 18:00 22:00 23:30 23:59 14:00 23:30 23:59 23:59 23:30 23:59 23:59 18:15 18:00 23:59 23:59 23:30 23:59 23:30 23:59 23:59 22:00 23:59 14:00 23:59 18:00 23:59 23:59

#PASS

Seattle 2,124 Seattle 4,180 Seattle 2,850 Vancouver 684 Seattle 3,883 Seattle 2,104 Seattle 3,080 Vancouver 2,081 Seattle 1,916 Seattle 2,590 Seattle 4,250 Seattle 1,380 Vancouver 694 Seattle 2,124 San Francisc 2,606 Seattle 4,180 Seattle 2,850 Seattle 3,883 Seattle 2,104 Seattle 3,080 Seattle 1,916 Seattle 2,590 Seattle 4,250 Seattle 1,380 Sitka 684 Seattle 2,124 Seattle 4,180 Seattle 1,258 Seattle 2,850 Vancouver 700 Seattle 3,883 Seattle 2,104 Seattle 3,080 San Francisc 2,606 Seattle 1,916 Seattle 2,590 Seattle 4,250 Seattle 1,380 Seattle 684 Seattle 2,124 Vancouver 2,400 Seattle 4,180 Seattle 2,850 Seattle 3,883 Seattle 2,104 Seattle 3,080 Seattle 1,916 Seattle 2,590 Seattle 4,250 Vancouver 922 Seattle 2,124 San Francisc 2,606 Vancouver 700 Seattle 4,180 Seattle 684 Seattle 2,850

To view or print a full schedule, go to victoriacruise.ca/page/cruise-schedule

CRUISE LINE

Carnival Cruise Lines Royal Caribbean Intl Celebrity Cruise Line Oceania Cruises Norwegian Cruise Lin Holland America Line Princess Cruise Lines Cunard Line Holland America Line Princess Cruise Lines Norwegian Cruise Lin Holland America Line Azamara Carnival Cruise Lines Princess Cruise Lines Royal Caribbean Intl Celebrity Cruise Line Norwegian Cruise Lin Holland America Line Princess Cruise Lines Holland America Line Princess Cruise Lines Norwegian Cruise Lin Holland America Line Oceania Cruises Carnival Cruise Lines Royal Caribbean Intl Holland America Line Celebrity Cruise Line Regent Seven Seas Norwegian Cruise Lin Holland America Line Princess Cruise Lines Princess Cruise Lines Holland America Line Princess Cruise Lines Norwegian Cruise Lin Holland America Line Oceania Cruises Carnival Cruise Lines Disney Cruise Line Royal Caribbean Intl Celebrity Cruise Line Norwegian Cruise Lin Holland America Line Princess Cruise Lines Holland America Line Princess Cruise Lines Norwegian Cruise Lin Crystal Cruises Carnival Cruise Lines Princess Cruise Lines Regent Seven Seas Royal Caribbean Intl Oceania Cruises Celebrity Cruise Line

LGTH

963 ‘ 1141 ‘ 1041 ‘ 594 ‘ 1094 ‘ 935 ‘ 947 ‘ 964 ‘ 936 ‘ 950 ‘ 1069.2 ‘ 780 ‘ 592 ‘ 963 ‘ 951 ‘ 1141 ‘ 1041 ‘ 1094 ‘ 935 ‘ 947 ‘ 936 ‘ 950 ‘ 1069.2 ‘ 780 ‘ 594 ‘ 963 ‘ 1141 ‘ 719 ‘ 1041 ‘ 709 ‘ 1094 ‘ 935 ‘ 947 ‘ 951 ‘ 936 ‘ 950 ‘ 1069.2 ‘ 780 ‘ 594 ‘ 963 ‘ 964 ‘ 1141 ‘ 1041 ‘ 1094 ‘ 935 ‘ 947 ‘ 936 ‘ 950 ‘ 1069.2 ‘ 778 ‘ 963 ‘ 951 ‘ 709 ‘ 1141 ‘ 594 ‘ 1041 ‘

DATE

Jul 26 Fri Jul 26 Fri Jul 26 Fri Jul 27 Sat Jul 27 Sat Jul 27 Sat Jul 28 Sun Jul 29 Mon Jul 29 Mon Aug 01 Thu Aug 01 Thu Aug 02 Fri Aug 02 Fri Aug 02 Fri Aug 02 Fri Aug 03 Sat Aug 03 Sat Aug 03 Sat Aug 05 Mon Aug 05 Mon Aug 08 Thu Aug 08 Thu Aug 09 Fri Aug 09 Fri Aug 09 Fri Aug 09 Fri Aug 10 Sat Aug 10 Sat Aug 10 Sat Aug 11 Sun Aug 12 Mon Aug 12 Mon Aug 15 Thu Aug 15 Thu Aug 16 Fri Aug 16 Fri Aug 16 Fri Aug 17 Sat Aug 17 Sat Aug 17 Sat Aug 19 Mon Aug 19 Mon Aug 19 Mon Aug 22 Thu Aug 22 Thu Aug 22 Thu Aug 23 Fri Aug 23 Fri Aug 23 Fri Aug 24 Sat Aug 24 Sat Aug 24 Sat Aug 25 Sun Aug 26 Mon Aug 26 Mon Aug 29 Thu

VESSEL

NORWEGIAN JOY EURODAM RUBY PRINCESS OOSTERDAM STAR PRINCESS NORWEGIAN BLISS AMSTERDAM AZAMARA QUEST CARNIVAL LEGEND OVATION OF THE SEAS CELEBRITY SOLSTICE GRAND PRINCESS NORWEGIAN JOY EURODAM RUBY PRINCESS OOSTERDAM STAR PRINCESS NORWEGIAN BLISS REGATTA CARNIVAL LEGEND OVATION OF THE SEAS CELEBRITY SOLSTICE CRYSTAL SYMPHONY NORWEGIAN JOY EURODAM RUBY PRINCESS OOSTERDAM STAR PRINCESS NORWEGIAN BLISS AMSTERDAM GRAND PRINCESS CARNIVAL LEGEND OVATION OF THE SEAS CELEBRITY SOLSTICE NORWEGIAN JOY EURODAM RUBY PRINCESS OOSTERDAM STAR PRINCESS NORWEGIAN BLISS CRYSTAL SYMPHONY REGATTA CARNIVAL LEGEND GRAND PRINCESS OVATION OF THE SEAS CELEBRITY SOLSTICE NORWEGIAN JOY EURODAM RUBY PRINCESS OOSTERDAM STAR PRINCESS NORWEGIAN BLISS AMSTERDAM REGATTA CARNIVAL LEGEND OVATION OF THE SEAS

Arrival and Departure dates and times are subject to change without notice.

FROM

ETA

Icy Point Ketchikan Ketchikan Ketchikan Skagway Ketchikan Sitka Ketchikan Ketchikan Tracey Arm Inside Passa Ketchikan Skagway Ketchikan Ketchikan Ketchikan Skagway Ketchikan Prince Ruper Ketchikan Tracey Arm Inside Passa Prince Ruper Icy Point Ketchikan Ketchikan Ketchikan Skagway Ketchikan Sitka Tracey Arm Ketchikan Tracey Arm Inside Passa Skagway Ketchikan Ketchikan Ketchikan Skagway Ketchikan Prince Ruper Prince Ruper Ketchikan Tracey Arm Tracey Arm Inside Passa Icy Point Ketchikan Ketchikan Ketchikan Skagway Ketchikan Sitka Ketchikan Ketchikan Tracey Arm

12:00 18:00 19:00 18:00 19:00 20:30 13:00 8:00 19:30 9:00 17:30 7:00 16:00 18:00 19:00 18:00 19:00 20:30 9:00 19:30 9:00 17:30 8:00 12:00 18:00 19:00 18:00 19:00 20:30 13:00 7:00 19:30 9:00 17:30 16:00 18:00 19:00 18:00 19:00 20:30 8:00 8:00 19:30 7:00 9:00 17:30 12:00 18:00 19:00 18:00 19:00 20:30 13:00 13:00 19:30 9:00

ETD

22:00 23:30 23:59 23:30 23:59 23:59 23:00 23:00 23:59 18:00 23:59 14:00 23:59 23:30 23:59 23:30 23:59 23:59 23:59 23:59 18:00 23:59 18:30 22:00 23:30 23:59 23:30 23:59 23:59 23:00 14:00 23:59 18:00 23:59 23:59 23:30 23:59 23:30 23:59 23:59 22:00 23:00 23:59 14:00 18:00 23:59 22:00 23:30 23:59 23:30 23:59 23:59 23:00 23:59 23:59 18:00

#PASS

Seattle 3,883 Seattle 2,104 Seattle 3,080 Seattle 1,916 Seattle 2,590 Seattle 4,250 Seattle 1,380 Vancouver 694 Seattle 2,124 Seattle 4,180 Seattle 2,850 San Francisc 2,606 Seattle 3,883 Seattle 2,104 Seattle 3,080 Seattle 1,916 Seattle 2,590 Seattle 4,250 Vancouver 684 Seattle 2,124 Seattle 4,180 Seattle 2,850 Vancouver 922 Seattle 3,883 Seattle 2,104 Seattle 3,080 Seattle 1,916 Seattle 2,590 Seattle 4,250 Seattle 1,380 San Francisc 2,606 Seattle 2,124 Seattle 4,180 Seattle 2,850 Seattle 3,883 Seattle 2,104 Seattle 3,080 Seattle 1,916 Seattle 2,590 Seattle 4,250 Vancouver 922 Seattle 684 Seattle 2,124 San Francisc 2,606 Seattle 4,180 Seattle 2,850 Seattle 3,883 Seattle 2,104 Seattle 3,080 Seattle 1,916 Seattle 2,590 Seattle 4,250 Seattle 1,380 Seattle 684 Seattle 2,124 Seattle 4,180

CRUISE LINE

Norwegian Cruise Lin Holland America Line Princess Cruise Lines Holland America Line Princess Cruise Lines Norwegian Cruise Lin Holland America Line Azamara Carnival Cruise Lines Royal Caribbean Intl Celebrity Cruise Line Princess Cruise Lines Norwegian Cruise Lin Holland America Line Princess Cruise Lines Holland America Line Princess Cruise Lines Norwegian Cruise Lin Oceania Cruises Carnival Cruise Lines Royal Caribbean Intl Celebrity Cruise Line Crystal Cruises Norwegian Cruise Lin Holland America Line Princess Cruise Lines Holland America Line Princess Cruise Lines Norwegian Cruise Lin Holland America Line Princess Cruise Lines Carnival Cruise Lines Royal Caribbean Intl Celebrity Cruise Line Norwegian Cruise Lin Holland America Line Princess Cruise Lines Holland America Line Princess Cruise Lines Norwegian Cruise Lin Crystal Cruises Oceania Cruises Carnival Cruise Lines Princess Cruise Lines Royal Caribbean Intl Celebrity Cruise Line Norwegian Cruise Lin Holland America Line Princess Cruise Lines Holland America Line Princess Cruise Lines Norwegian Cruise Lin Holland America Line Oceania Cruises Carnival Cruise Lines Royal Caribbean Intl

LGTH

1094 ‘ 935 ‘ 947 ‘ 936 ‘ 950 ‘ 1069.2 ‘ 780 ‘ 592 ‘ 963 ‘ 1141 ‘ 1041 ‘ 951 ‘ 1094 ‘ 935 ‘ 947 ‘ 936 ‘ 950 ‘ 1069.2 ‘ 594 ‘ 963 ‘ 1141 ‘ 1041 ‘ 778 ‘ 1094 ‘ 935 ‘ 947 ‘ 936 ‘ 950 ‘ 1069.2 ‘ 780 ‘ 951 ‘ 963 ‘ 1141 ‘ 1041 ‘ 1094 ‘ 935 ‘ 947 ‘ 936 ‘ 950 ‘ 1069.2 ‘ 778 ‘ 594 ‘ 963 ‘ 951 ‘ 1141 ‘ 1041 ‘ 1094 ‘ 935 ‘ 947 ‘ 936 ‘ 950 ‘ 1069.2 ‘ 780 ‘ 594 ‘ 963 ‘ 1141 ‘

Best of the City Summer 2019 • 49

Jun 24 Mon Jun 27 Thu Jun 27 Thu Jun 28 Fri Jun 28 Fri Jun 28 Fri Jun 28 Fri Jun 29 Sat Jun 29 Sat Jun 29 Sat Jun 29 Sat Jun 30 Sun Jul 01 Mon Jul 01 Mon Jul 03 Wed Jul 04 Thu Jul 04 Thu Jul 05 Fri Jul 05 Fri Jul 05 Fri Jul 06 Sat Jul 06 Sat Jul 06 Sat Jul 07 Sun Jul 08 Mon Jul 08 Mon Jul 11 Thu Jul 11 Thu Jul 11 Thu Jul 12 Fri Jul 12 Fri Jul 12 Fri Jul 12 Fri Jul 13 Sat Jul 13 Sat Jul 13 Sat Jul 13 Sat Jul 14 Sun Jul 15 Mon Jul 15 Mon Jul 16 Tue Jul 18 Thu Jul 18 Thu Jul 19 Fri Jul 19 Fri Jul 19 Fri Jul 20 Sat Jul 20 Sat Jul 20 Sat Jul 22 Mon Jul 22 Mon Jul 23 Tue Jul 23 Tue Jul 25 Thu Jul 25 Thu Jul 25 Thu

VESSEL

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Best of the City Summer 2019 • 51

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FRIDAY NIGHTS ON THE BREAKWATER BARGE Fridays to Sept. 27 Food trucks, live music, craft beer and cider, from 5 to 9pm on the floating barge at Ogden Point! Family friendly; no dogs. Info: gvha.ca/events

entertainment and more, at the corner of Fairfield and Moss streets, 10am to 2pm. Info: mossstreetmarket.com

BEACH FOOD FRIDAYS & SATURDAYS To Sept. 7 Head to the Colwood waterfront for a beach-front dinner from some of the region’s favourite food trucks, noon to 7pm; music from 5 to 7pm. Info: colwood.ca

VICTORIA HARBOURCATS June through August Cheer our West Coast League baseball team, featuring some of today’s top college players. Royal Athletic Park. Info: harbourcats.com

JAMES BAY MARKET Saturdays, through Sept. 28 Locally grown and produced goods, arts, crafts, entertainment and more, 9am to 3pm at Superior and Menzies streets. Info: jamesbaymarket.com

THE VICTORIA HIGHLANDERS June & July The Highlanders FC takes to the pitch at Royal Athletic Park, competing in the USL League. For a full schedule, ticket details and more information, visit highlandersfc.ca.

ESQUIMALT FARMERS MARKET Thursdays to Sept. 19 Fresh produce, food products, beverages, local artisans and live music at this festive community gathering, 4:30 to 7:30pm at Memorial Park, 1212 Esquimalt Rd. Info: esquimaltmarket.com

PACIFIC FC Through October Vancouver Island’s Pacific Football Club marks its inaugural season with the Canadian Premier League, at Westhills Stadium through October. Info: pacificfc.canpl.ca

MOSS STREET MARKET Saturdays, May through October Locally grown produce, baked goods, crafts,

VICTORIA SKA & REGGAE FESTIVAL June 19 to 23 20th annual festival brings

MAGENTA KEYLINE AND CROP MARKS INDICATES 47" x 68" TRANSIT SHELTER/STREET LEVEL TRIM

Voted

Best City

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VICTORIA NEWS

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2 0 1 9

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2019 BEST BOOKKEEPING/ BEST TAX SERVICES

When you give to The Cridge Centre, you are supporting not just our 2000+ clients, but you are also growing a stronger community for yourself and your family. When our community is stronger, everyone is healthier and happier. When vulnerable people receive support and care, they become engaged citizens who contribute and participate – that means a stronger community for all of us. The Cridge Centre has been serving vulnerable populations in Victoria for 145 years – we know our community and we have a legacy of love and care that stretches through the centuries.

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52 • Best of the City Summer 2019

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GREATER VICTORIA SHAKESPEARE FESTIVAL July 4 to 27 Two Gentlemen of Verona (Wednesdays/Fridays/Saturdays), and Julius Caesar (Tuesdays/ Thursdays/Saturdays) at Camosun College, Lansdowne Campus. Aug. 1 to 3 Two Gentlemen of Verona at Saxe Point Park in Esquimalt. Info: vicshakespeare.com

a diverse lineup of the finest grooves and rhythms from around the globe, including Ky-Mani Marley, Less than Jake, Dub Pistols, The PieTasters and many more. Various venues. Info: victoriaskafest.ca INDIGENOUS FESTIVAL June 21 to 23 The Songhees and Esquimalt Nations celebrate National Indigenous Day weekend with music, dance, food and the arts at the Royal BC Museum courtyard. Each day starts with performances from the two local Host Nations followed by shows from Indigenous performers from across the province. Info: indigenousbc.com/victoria-indigenousfestival JAZZFEST June 21 to 30 Ten hot days of cool jazz, blues and world music from local, Canadian and internationally acclaimed musicians. Various venues. Info: jazzvictoria.ca/jazz-fest SIDNEY DAYS June 30 & July Parades, family activities, entertainment and more, all in downtown Sidney and along the waterfront. Info: peninsulacelebrations.ca VICTORIA PRIDE FESTIVAL June 30 to July 7 Enjoy community events through the week, culminating in the colourful Pride Parade and the Pride Festival in James Bay’s MacDonald Park. Info: victoriapridesociety.org

SAANICH STRAWBERRY FESTIVAL July 7 Enjoy strawberries and ice cream, plus a wide variety of family activities, including information displays, face-painting, program demonstrations, arts and craft stations and bouncy castles. 11am to 3pm. Bring a blanket and enjoy a day at the beach! Info: saanich.ca

Deuce Days will fill Victoria’s Inner Harbour with 1,367 spectacular pre-1952 vehicles July 21, including more than 650 ‘Deuces’ – the iconic 1932 Fords. GORGE CANADA DAY PICNIC July 1 Celebrate Canada Day along the Gorge Waterway with a pancake breakfast, family parade, stage entertainment, Gorge on Art, classic cars, kids’ activities, canoe rides, street hockey, Strawberry Tea, market and more, 8:30am to 4pm. Info: gorgecanadaday.ca

HAPPY CANADA DAY! July 1 Canada Day’s biggest birthday cake is served at Fort Rodd Hill and Fisgard Lighthouse National Historic Sites! Join the excitement from 10am to 5pm. Admission and piece of cake free. Info: pc.gc.ca/en/ lhn-nhs/bc/fortroddhill

CANADA DAY IN VICTORIA July 1 Celebrate Canadian heritage and achievements with an exciting line-up of live music and fun activities, including the Living Flag on the Legislature lawn. Info: canadadayvictoria.ca

DOWNTOWN VICTORIA BUSKERS FESTIVAL July 3 to 7 Free five-day, familyfriendly community festival showcasing quirky and unique street talent from around the world. Various venues. Info: downtownvictoria.ca

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NORTHWEST DEUCE DAYS July 18 to 21 Ninth historic gathering of pre-1952 vehicles. July 21: Victoria’s Iconic Inner Harbour will be filled with 1,367 spectacular collector vehicles, including 650 Deuces. Info: northwestdeuceday. com TD ART GALLERY PAINT-IN July 20 Annual artist showcase, hosted by the Art Gallery of Greater Victoria outside along Moss Street, from the Gallery to Dallas Road. Meet local artists, enjoy music, refreshments and more. Info: aggv.ca.

Victoria

Thank you

for your support in voting for us.

Canwest aCCounting

Local business, local staff, local focus. Providing bookkeeping and accounting services to Greater Victoria since 1991.

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OAK BAY VILLAGE NIGHT MARKET July 10, Aug. 14 & Sept. 11 Stroll the Avenue from 4 to 8pm and enjoy more than 100 local vendors featuring in-season local produce, artisan bread, street food, jewellery, toys, pottery, art cards, furniture and more! Info: visitoakbayvillage.ca

SOOKE FINE ARTS SHOW July 26 to Aug. 5 Annual regional exhibition of fine art showcasing original, West Coast art by artists on Vancouver Island and the surrounding coastal islands. In the SEAPARC Leisure Complex, 2168 Phillips Rd, Sooke. SYMPHONY SPLASH Aug. 4 A spectacle of music from the Victoria Symphony, performing from a barge in the Inner Harbour. Info: victoriasymphony.ca

Caring for your family One paw at a time

We are proud to be members of this growing community.

Thank you Victoria!

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extend your family time

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Best of the City Summer 2019 • 53

Caring for pets in the Westshore since 1981.

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What makes this WBU Hummingbird Feeder The Best In The City? It’s the new high perch for unobstructed view of the birds.

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Thank you Victoria, for voting us Best Steakhouse

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Come Join Us... Voted

Best City

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201 9

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25th

985 Whirlaway Crescent

Thank you

Victoria! GEOFFREY BEATTIE

Owner, Barclay’s Fine Jewellers For over 30 years Barclay’s Fine Jewellers

Voted

Best City

has been your community jeweller.

of the

As local owners we are proud to provide honesty, integrity

Thank you Victoria

VICTORIA NEWS

and expertise to our neighbours. We are grateful to our wonderful customers for their continued support.

2 0 1 9 106 - 2187 Oak Bay Avenue | 250-592-1100 barclaysjewellers.com

for your voting and support!

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My-Chosen Cafe | 4492 Happy Valley Rd, Victoria | (250) 474-2333 | www.mychosencafe.com .mychosencafe.com

Great Pub Food • Wide Selection of Liquor, Beer & Wine

Mouth-watering treats since 1956

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Bes

Home of the Island’s Best Guiness Pint Award r fo

Your Sweet Voted

Best City

of the

T th oo

54 • Best of the City Summer 2019

Liquor Shoppe 250 642-5932

VICTORIA NEWS

2 0 1 9

th 25

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Visit our Bakery & Diner at 718 Fort Street • 250.385.1012 www.thedutchbakery.com

Esquimalt events highlight ‘townships’ unique character FROM MARKETS TO MUSIC NIGHTS, TOWNSHIP EVENTS PROVIDE GATHERING PLACES Esquimalt is a community full of surprises. Only a wee bit west of downtown Victoria, the township offers visitors the chance to renew their spirit as they explore the ancient shoreline or walk along any of the community’s beautiful trails. Visitors are also invited to take in any of a host of community events to sample the hospitality of the community.

Just a few of the highlights: • Walking Tours may be the best

way to truly learn about Esquimalt and the municipality has made it easy to get out and learn about this fascinating community. They can provide a single 20-page booklet that outlines seven separate tours that range from the historic to the supernatural vistas of the township’s parks.

something for every musical taste.

• There are a multitude of parks and playgrounds for the little ones when visiting Esquimalt, but the Adventure Park is an experience like no other.

There are two separate playgrounds, a spray park, and a series of water features that will leave the kids (and adults) squealing with delight. Bring a picnic lunch and enjoy the landscaped gardens as the kids frolic at this incredible attraction.

Hydro IDid s Your your Water Heat er on 24billHoursgoaup, Day, AGAIN? Wasting Electricity?

• The Esquimalt Farmers’ Market is a place to meet the

community, make new friends and sample the best of a variety of food products and the work of an incredible array of local artisans. The market runs every Thursday throughout the summer.

• Grab the sunhats and blankets and surrender yourself to the beat. For seven Tuesdays in June and July, Esquimalt hosts the Memorial Park Music Fest. The mix of old standards and new performers ensure that the Fest will offer

Voted

Best City

of the

VICTORIA NEW S

25th

Y E A R

The Arts Festival showcases the township’s thriving art scene while Shakespeare buffs can take in the works of the Bard like they’ve never been seen before.

Now is the time to switch to propane natural to save WeNatural installgas highorefficiency For a more down to earth celebration, Esquimalt’s abill. gas appliances up tofurnaces, 75%RibonFest youroffers hydroand finger-lickin’ good mixture of great food, craft beverages, kidsheaters. activitankless water ties and entertainment. It may not be Shakespeare, but it is tasty.

Voted

Best City

Hydro Maximize IsDid Your your Water Heater on bill goaup, Your Air Conditioning 24 Hours Day, AGAIN? Wasting Electricity? The Energy Solution Experts of the

VICTORIA NEWS

with an air-conditioning unit that operates far more efficiently

2 25th Y 0 E 1 to switch A Now is the time to 9 R

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On behalf of the Adamopoulos family, we would like to thank everyone who voted for Ithaca “Best of the City”. We appreciate our customers ongoing support. We also would 2019 like to thank our amazing staff team.

Rebates up to $1000! Rebates up to $1700!

Best of the City Summer 2019 • 55

2 0 1 9

Esquimalt plays host to a wide variety of special events, sure to capture the interest of most visitors.

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56 • Best of the City Summer 2019

West Bay Mechanical On Display in our Showroom

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Got a business idea? CITY’S BUSINESS HUB IS THE PLACE TO GO Kendra Crighton Starting a business can be intimidating, but the Victoria Business Hub is there to guide people throughout the whole process. With the goal of making it easier to do business in Victoria, the Business Hub partners with various outlets in Victoria such as the Victoria Chamber of Commerce and the Victoria Business Association, to basically “hold your hand” through the process. Located in City Hall, the Business Hub is the first point of contact for business start-ups, re-locations, expansions, investors, property owners, leasing agents and others interested in creating prosperity in Victoria. According to Quinn Anglin, business ambassador, the hub has seen a 36 per cent increase in the amount of people using their services since they opened at the beginning of 2016. She says the aim is to create a vibrant downtown and to demystify the process of starting up a business in the city. “We’re a really welcoming and collaborative point of contact for businesses,” she says. “City hall can be quite intimidating and having the welcoming point of contact can be reassuring” In 2018 alone the Hub saw 492 inquiries, of which 313 related directly to new businesses. Anglin says some good examples of new businesses that have sought help from the Business Hub are

"I GOT THAT I MATTER"

Poke Fresh in Cook Street Village and the new Pacific FC merchandise store. Since the Business Hub opened they’ve hosted four information sessions a year focusing on different topics. The next one, coming up at the end of July, will be focused on immigrants, refugees and newcomers who Anglin says have different barriers such as language, accessing funds or even opening a bank account. Each session sees about 120 to 170 people attend, with the Mayor making opening remarks followed by an hour long presentation. Once the presentation has wrapped up, attendees are welcome to chat with each other at the various booths set up in the room. Anglin, a business owner herself, says the Hub wasn’t open when she opened her business but that would have been very helpful. “I would have loved to use the Hub if this was open,” she says. “I would have been super appreciative to have something like this.”

To contact the Business Hub call 250-361-0629 or email bizhub@victoria.ca.

“Specialists in Victoria since 1950”

SERVICE TO MEET YOUR NEEDS

When you shop, donate, or volunteer at WIN, you empower women in our community.Thank you!

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Best of the City Summer 2019 • 57

Creative Staff. Beautiful Designs. For all the occasions of life

NOVA RENOVATIONS LTD. Quality you can trust!

Thank you for voting us one of Victoria’s Best Hotels for 2019

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Strawberries are here! Since 1917

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Blueberries, boysenberries, blackberries, raspberries, loganberries & tayberries. We offer varieties of jams: Blackberry/jalapeño, blackberry/strawberry, tayberry, loganberry, strawberry/blackberry/tayberry and strawberry and strawberry/rhurbarb. Also syrups: Blackberry, strawberry and raspberryy.

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We care about all of the tires we sell. Let us help you get to know them.

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58 • Best of the City Summer 2019

Island Living at its BEST! Living atat its BEST! IslandIsland Living its BEST!

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COAST LIGHTING • lighting maintenance services • Planned lighting maintenance, indoor & outdoor • Planned lighting maintenance contracts • Group relamping programs • Re-ballasting • Retrofit programs, audits and proposals • Lease-To-Own upgrade programs • Fluorescent & neon sign maintenance and repair

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Best City

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VICTORIA NEWS

2 0 1 9

25th

Y E A R