Boulevard Magazine - Dec 2015 / Jan 2016 Issue

DECEMBER I JANUARY 2015/16 DECEMBER 2015 I JANUARY 2016

VICTORIA LIFE AT ITS FINEST

DresseD to kill

Slay the season with fierce holiday fashion

ON BOARD

For a super yacht Christmas

Home is oN tHe laNai

An oasis in the heart of the city

MAKE IT AND TAKE IT DIY gifts from the kitchen

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CONTENTS

Issue 11, Volume XXV

DEC2015 JAN2016

30

79

55 47

88 FEATURES

Holiday Floral design by Vanessa Watters, owner of Verbena Floral Design Inc. www.verbenafloraldesign.ca Gold candle holders and candles, throw cushion, blanket and faux fur stockings are all from Bespoke Design on Oak Bay Avenue. Shelly wears clothing from Bagheera Boutique and Adam wears clothing and boots from Citizen Clothing. Photo by Gary McKinstry.

30 HOME IS ON THE LANAI

79 make it and take it

An at-home oasis that’s as

DIY gifts from

good as a getaway

the kitchen

By Jaiya Anka

By Cinda Chavich

47 DRESSED TO KILL

88 PARTY ON

Slay the season

Planning a five-star

in sizzling fashion

holiday event

By Lia Crowe

By Susan Lundy

55 ON BOARD

A super yacht

Christmas

8

By Angela Cowan

COLUMNS 61 HAWTHORN

Fair Trade

By Tom Hawthorn

102

16

32

118

61 112

40

DEPARTMENTS 10 OUR CONTRIBUTORS

32 INSPIRED PEOPLE

102 TRAVEL NEAR

Mike Rohl

Winter warm-up:

14 EDITOR’S LETTER

By Korina Miller

mini spa vacations

By Susan Lundy

Sharing our wealth

40 Talking with tess

112 FRONT ROW

16

INSPIRED STYLE

Ivo Zanatta

The Gift, Jon and Roy,

Patrick Tier

By Tess van Straaten

and much more

By Lia Crowe

94 TRAVEL FAR

By Robert Moyes

18

inspired design

Flights of fancy:

118 SECRETS & LIVES

Cabin fever

monarchs in Mexico

Leader of the pack:

By Sarah Reid

By Carolyn Heiman

new VS CEO

Kathryn Laurin

By Susan Lundy

20 INSPIRED EVENTS

By Susan Lundy

9

Our CONTRIBUTORS

Jaiya Anka WRITER: Home is ON the lanai page 30

Cinda Chavich

ANGELA COWAN

WRITER: Make it and take it

WRITER: super yacht christmas page 55

page 79

“In touring the home, I could feel how comfortable the couple is in their new space and how happy they are that they decided to push the boundaries of design.”

Jaiya is an art history graduate, who specializes in the study of textiles and their use in art, clothing and interiors. She enjoys writing about the arts, design and culture.

the water, and it was so exciting to be given a tour of the Zenith and see the inner workings of such a beautiful yacht." Angela is a freelance writer, poet and acupuncturist, and regular contributor to Boulevard.

LIA CROWE

DON DENTON

Cathie Ferguson

CREAtive

PHOTOGRAPHER: super yacht christmas

PHOTOGRAPHER: dressed to kill page 47

page 55

With my new role in Creative at Boulevard, I went on almost every photo shoot and dang, it was fun! Most inspiring were the people behind the stories: their willingness to engage, welcome our crew into their homes, start the engines and dust off their tuxedos. Because glamour and luxury only go so far: people who really, truly engage, light my fire!

Group Publisher Penny Sakamoto Editor Susan Lundy Creative Lia Crowe DESIGN Lily Chan Lorianne Koch Advertising Mario Gedicke Pat Brindle ASSOCIATE GROUP Oliver Sommer PUBLISHER Advertising Director Mario Gedicke 250.891.5627

10

"As an island girl, I love being on

“Passionate chefs and bartenders who create their own housemade condiments are a special breed and I learned some of their secrets — even visited a local herbalist to find some unusual ingredients for her recipes.”

Cinda is a longtime food and travel journalist, Boulevard's food columnist and author of the new Waste Not, Want Not Cookbook.

“Standing on the back of a super yacht idling in the middle of Victoria's Inner Harbour, while watching the sun set and the provincial legislature building exterior lights turned on, was a magical experience.” Don is the Photo Supervisor for Black Press.

He has photographed numerous high-profile events, including the Olympics and a Royal wedding.

Circulation & Miki Speirs distribution 250.480.3277 Contributing Jaiya Anka, Cinda Chavich, Writers Angela Cowan, Lia Crowe, Tom Hawthorn, Carolyn Heiman, Korina Miller, Robert Moyes, Sarah Reid, Tess van Straaten Contributing Lia Crowe, Don Denton, Photographers Cathie Ferguson, Arnold Lim, Ted Moyes

“Driving along the winding rural road that leads to Rudi Koniczek's picturesque property felt like stepping back in time. .. a feeling that matches the collection of amazing vintage cars we were lucky enough to experience.”

Cathie is a freelance commercial and lifestyle photographer in Victoria who finds inspiration in people she photographs.

Advertise Boulevard Magazine is Victoria’s leading lifestyle magazine, celebrating 25 years of publishing in Greater Victoria.

To advertise or to learn more about advertising opportunities please send us an email at info@blvdmag.ca Mailing Address: 818 Broughton Street, Victoria, BC, V8W 1E4 Tel: 250.381.3484 Fax: 250.386.2624 info@blvdmag.ca blvdmag.ca

Victoria Boulevard ® is a registered trademark of Black Press Group Ltd. All rights reserved. No part of this magazine may be reproduced without the publisher’s written permission. Ideas and opinions expressed in this publication do not necessarily reflect the views of Black Press Group Ltd. or its affiliates; no official endorsement should be inferred. The publisher does not assume any responsibility for the contents, both implied or assumed, of any advertisement in this publication. Printed in Canada.

Canada Publications Mail Product Sales Agreement #42109519.

Let us get you where you want to be.

The Elbers Financial Group Adrian Elbers, CFA, Portfolio Manager, Investment Advisor Eric Elbers, CIM, FCSI, PhD, Portfolio Manager, Associate Investment Advisor 250 361-2283 (Victoria) • 1 800 561-5864 www.cibcwg.com/Elbers-Financial-Group Advisor Managed Program Composite Performance Returns (Annualized as at September 30, 2015)

1 Year

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Since Inception

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CIBC Wood Gundy is a division of CIBC World Markets Inc., a subsidiary of CIBC and a Member of the Canadian Investor Protection Fund and Investment Industry Regulatory Organization of Canada. If you are currently a CIBC Wood Gundy client, please contact your Investment Advisor. Past performance may not be repeated and is not indicative of future results. Performance returns are gross of AMA investment management fees, and other expenses, if any. Each individual account’s performance returns will be reduced by these fees and expenses. The indicated rates of return are the historical annual compounded total returns. Inception date for the Elbers’ Balanced Income and Growth portfolio is December 2008. The Blended Benchmark is 35% S&P/TSX + 15% MSCI C$ World + 40% Dex Univ Bond + 10% Dex 91day T-bill. This information, including any opinion, is based on various sources believed to be reliable, but its accuracy cannot be guaranteed and is subject to change. All investments carry a certain degree of risk. It is important to review objectives, risk tolerance, liquidity needs, tax consequences and any other considerations before choosing an AMA strategy.

Our CONTRIBUTORS

Tom Hawthorn

Carolyn Heiman

Arnold Lim

WRITER: fair trade

WRITER: Flights of fancy

PHOTOGRAPHER: inspired people: Mike Rohl

page 61

page 94

page 24

“Josh del Sol bent over a row of five cups of coffee, spooning a bit of the piping hot liquid onto his tongue with a loud slurp. He repeated the act, later describing the specific flavours of each bean.

At Level Ground Trading, they take their coffee as seriously as they do a search for social justice.”

Tom is a longtime newspaper and magazine writer here in Victoria.

“Exceptional holidays are often formulated from unplanned experiences or events that surpass expectations. That was especially true for my side trip to see the monarch butterflies, booked at the last minute during a short getaway to Mexico’s interior.” Carolyn is a longtime Boulevard writer.

Gary McKinstry

Korina Miller

Robert Moyes

PHOTOGRAPHER: Home is on the lanai

WRITER: inspired people: Mike Rohl

WRITER: FRONT ROW

page 30

“The cover was a real joy to shoot.

The entire team from the set design, Lia's creative help, the models and homeowners were all fabulous.

Everyone worked seamlessly and so efficiently that it was simply a fun shoot from start to finish.”

Gary McKinstry is a commercial photographer and promotional filmmaker, who has worked for Boulevard for over 25 years.

page 112

page 24

"While seeing Esquimalt's English Inn turned into a Tennessee hotel was slightly surreal, the energy of the film crew and Mike Rohl's appreciation of Victoria was inspiring." Korina has covered arts and culture for the past 15 years for Lonely Planet and BBC.

“Inspired by cozy winter nights, this Sarah month's Design Reid Matters curates CREATOR: handcrafted pieces CABIN FEVER and locally sourced indulgences guaranteed to warm page 18 your holiday home.”

Sarah is a designer, creative director and maker living in Victoria, BC.

12

"I always love working with and documenting passionate artists and makers, and Mike Rohl is no exception. Watching experienced professionals like him bringing his craft to Victoria is proof positive we live in one of the creative capitals of Canada." Arnold is a longtime photojournalist and videographer.

“Front Row covers a range of exciting cultural events, from a rollicking play adapted from Jack Hodgins’ first book to a unique Christmas concert evoking the spirit of a 17th century composer.” A born and bred Victoria native, Robert is a longtime freelancer and editor, whose main focus these days is being an arts journalist.

Tess van Straaten WRITER, MAGNIFICENT MARBLE page 40

“There's something about touring a marble and granite showroom that makes you just want to touch every sleek slab.

Ivo’s right — it’s impossible to pick just one favourite!”

A fourth-generation Victoria native, Tess is an awardwinning journalist and television personality.

EDITOR’S LETTER

Sharing our wealth, now and all year By susan lundy

photo by arnold lim

community by offering assistance like helping with school enrollment, ESL training, finding employment, etc. To donate, visit fairfieldrefugeesponsorship. com.

There are numerous worthy charities out there, but the point is, we need to share our wealth, and what better time than right now?

There are others in the community who aim to do this all year round. For example, Stacey Toews and Laurie Klassen are co-owners of Level Ground Trading, a local coffee company that is helping make a difference in many lives.

(See story by Tom Hawthorn on page 61).

Of course, gifts are always top of mind this season, so food writer Cinda Chavich has explored some do-it-yourself tasty treats, perfect for placing under the tree or presenting tos seasonal party hosts (page 79). Speaking of parties, join me as I attempt to plan a five-star, stressfree event (page 88). Or take a peek at two spectacular interiors (a super yacht, page 55, and our cover home, page 30) either of which would make amazing backdrops for gatherings of any sort.

As always, interesting people are a big part of Boulevard and in this issue we look behind the scenes of a TV movie set with director Mike Rohl (page 24); discover the wonder of Vancouver Island marble with Ivo Zanatta (page 40); plus meet the soon-to-be CEO of the Victoria Symphony, Kathryn Laurin (page 118), and the styleforward Patrick Tier (page 16).

Looking for travel ideas? See the monarch butterflies in Mexico (page 94) or set off on a winter spa vacation (page 102). This issue of Boulevard also has gift ideas, fashion finds and myriad events to check out.

But most important this season — and all year round — is to remember that as we lay out our lavish spreads and seek the perfect gifts for our friends and families, others are struggling to find food, shelter and clothing. Those of us who are blessed to have these basics and so much more can indeed share our good fortune. Let’s give from our hearts — even (for some) if it’s just crayons and a coloured piece of paper. photo by lia crowe

T

he first time my younger daughter came face to face with a homeless man and was old enough to understand what it meant, we were walking back to our hotel from a family restaurant in Vancouver.

After she stopped and gazed at him for a moment, she directed us all to give him our little boxes of leftovers. Then, as we started to walk away, she paused again, and handed him even more prized possessions — the crayons and paper place mat she’d coloured at the restaurant. I’m sure he couldn’t help but appreciate the gesture as it was a true gift from the heart.

Thankfully, in this consumer-crazed season, we get frequent reminders to do good deeds and — in this time of festivity — to remember that others aren’t so fortunate. The most enduring, visible reminder is the Salvation Army’s bell-jingling kettle campaign, which, in its 124th year last Christmas, raised $22 million to help provide direct, hands-on service to 1.6 million impoverished people in Canada.

In Victoria, the Mustard Seed’s food bank feeds 7,000 people a month, and there are numerous ways to donate to it (check the website). Our Place, an inner city community centre helping Victoria’s most vulnerable people (the working poor, impoverished seniors, the disabled, mentally ill and homeless), dishes up 1,200 meals per day and offers a place for people to shower, pick up free clothing and access other services. The society also runs transitional housing units and a shelter. Donations are always gratefully accepted. And World Vision offers a whole catalogue for “ethical gift-giving,” helping people in Canada and overseas (see page 21).

This winter, there is a whole new area in which we can help.

How many of us haven’t been moved by the plight of refugees fleeing Syria? One local woman, Julie Angus (author of Olive Odyssey and featured in Boulevard, July 2014), is part of a group sponsoring a Syrian refugee family in Victoria. That family is Angus’ aunt, uncle and three cousins, whom she visited in Syria on a trip that ultimately inspired her book. The group has launched a charity gift giving campaign, whereby people donate money for specific purchases and receive a card for the recipient (think “give a goat” but with school supplies and groceries).

When the family arrives, the group will help it integrate into the

Those of us who are blessed to have these basics and so much more can indeed share our good fortune.

14

Boulevard editor Susan Lundy is former journalist and twotime recipient of the prestigious Jack Webster Award. Her stories have appeared in numerous publications, and she is the author of Heritage Apples: A New Sensation (Touchwood Editions, 2013).

Francis Jewellers Buy it or have us make it from your old gold and diamonds.

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inspiredSTYLE WITH PATRICK TIER By lia crowe Clothes/ Grooming Uniform: “I’m going to sound like Seinfeld — a pair of jeans, white T-shirt and a pair of Nikes.” Denim brand and cut: Edwin Sen cut or Denham razor cut.

Current go-to Item: Denham chore jacket in black. Best new purchase: Nike, black, tone on tone hypervenom mid. Coveting: IWC Portuguese Chronograph Watch. Day bag: Patagonia travel tote.

Accessory you spend the most money on: Nike shoes. Favourite work tool: Black, metal, multi-tool pen.

Sunglasses: Randolph “Concorde” mirrored sunglasses.

Scent: Ulrich Lang - Aperture.

Necessary indulgence: Manicures. Who cuts your hair: Brittany at Shampoo Hair Bar. Favourite skincare products: “There’s an incredible product line coming into the shop called Grown Alchemist.”

16

Style Inspiration/ Life Iconic Celebrity: Early Paul Newman.

“He carried himself beautifully through his entire life. The way he respected himself, his work, and other people.” Favourite artist: John Baldessari. Film: Blade Runner by Ridley Scott. Favourite blog: Nowness or The Grit of It. Art Book: Coastal

by Curtis Pelletier.

Favourite Local Restaurant: The Village. Favourite Wine: “I like a good Rosé, my go-to is Baillie-Grohman Blanc de Noirs.” Music on current rotation: DJ duo, Flight Facilities.

Favourite Flower: Bonsai tree. Favourite City to Visit: Paris or New York.

Favourite App: Instagram. Hotel: The Parker in Palm Springs. Favourite place in the whole world: “Anywhere with my family.”

Patrick Tier gains a new perspective

T

his past fall, Patrick Tier took a leap of faith and moved his tightly curated menswear and lifestyle shop, Citizen Clothing, out from behind the tweed curtain of Oak Bay and into the heart of downtown.

He’s a serial wearer of black, white and denim; he’s also an introvert that’s always up for a thoughtful chat, and the more time you spend with him the more you’re treated to his clever but weighty sayings — his unique thoughts on life, henceforth affectionately called Patrick-isms.

“You’ve got two eyes, two ears and only one mouth,” he says, giving me Patrick-ism example number one, when I asked for his best life lesson since 40. “You do yourself a big favour if you live in proportion: watch a little more, listen a little more.”

Asked what sparked the big move, Patrick says, “I saw a re-genesis in downtown and the urban community of Victoria, which I wanted to be a part of.

So I put my money where my mouth was.”

You can now find Citizen on lower Johnson Street, and Patrick describes the shop’s aesthetic as “the third wardrobe, a bridge between ultra casual street-wear and tailored suiting.”

Outside of work he’s passionate about community: “It comes in a lot of just strange and fantastic ways. It’s not structured, labeled, boxed or forced. It’s fluid. Personally, I am a pretty family-driven guy.”

Asked what quality he hopes to pass down to his young daughter, he says, “Fairness. I hope she’s fair, because I’m pretty fair. And kindness — she’s already got that nailed. She’s taught me a few nuggets on kindness.”

To end on a Patrick-ism, one that stayed with me well after the interview, Patrick says, “Life is a marathon not a sprint. There’s a long game to just about everything.”

With a quarter century working in menswear, it’s clear that Patrick isn’t sprinting to any finish line or rushing to any next step.

Rather he’s showing up every day and working hard, while staying well clear of the hamster wheel by being open to potential and taking risks with his eyes and ears wide open.

“Good style is confidence.

If somebody is confident then what can you say?

You’re good with you, so you’re not worried about me.”

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inspiredDESIGN

 Add warmth and texture to your space with a stunning, hand-knotted Ardebil rug. $4,999 // Available at Babak’s Oriental Carpets

 Go green with a gorgeous, handmade holiday wreath. $55+ // Made to order at Thorn And Thistle

 Get comfy with a classic club chair, upholstered in luxe vintage leather. $2,298 // Available at Muse & Merchant

 Warm up with the Cambie blanket.

Flawlessly combining function and style, it is the perfect cozy indulgence — for yourself, or that special someone on your holiday list. $139 // Available at Picot

f ever cabin some seasonal accents to warm your home  By Sarah Reid

18

 Get rustic with beautiful geometric woodwork — handmade here in Victoria. $225+ // Available at ArrowAndWander.com

 For warm seasonal ambiance, set the mood with a Frasier Fir candle ($53 // Available at Chintz & Company)

or for a more subtle fragrance, you'll love Woodlot's original scent, boasting hints of cedarwood and eucalyptus.

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inspiredEVENTS

Music director Maestra Tania Miller conducts the Victoria Symphony, which celebrates 75 years this season.

75 years of joyful live music

The Victoria Symphony is 75 years old this season and it’s pulling out all the stops for a celebration of its past, present and future, including a 75th Anniversary Legacy Tour to eastern Canada.

Created in 1941, the Victoria Symphony Society has provided Victoria with live classical music on a regular basis and taken responsibility for financing and administering the orchestra. The first concert of the new society, led by Melvin Knudsen, occurred in the spring of 1942.

By 1951, eight concerts were presented with a budget of $30,000, compared to the first year’s two concerts at a cost of $1,000, explains VS press material. The society received early backing from the Canada Council, and so with growing support from both public and private sectors, the orchestra broadened its scope and continued to grow.

Today — with the addition of family and pops concerts in the 1970s as well as being the performance orchestra for Dance Victoria and Pacific Opera Victoria — the VS presents over 100 20

performances annually, including educational concerts, classical music, pops, opera and more.

One of the flagship events of the VS season is the annual Victoria Symphony Splash, which is held from a floating barge in Victoria’s Inner Harbour. Created to celebrate the Symphony’s 50th anniversary, Splash has grown to be one of the largest outdoor symphony events in North America.

The symphony’s 75th celebration opened September 21 with special guests the Naden Band. In the early 1940s, just over half of the members of the Victoria Symphony were also members of the Naden Band, giving a historical touch to the season’s opening event.

Upcoming highlights of the 75th Anniversary season include: • International superstar cellist Yo-Yo Ma joins the VS in December for a once-in-a-lifetime performance.

• Yannick Nézet-Séguin returns to conduct in Victoria.

Principal guest conductor in the early 2000s, Nézet-Séguin’s career has taken him across Europe and to conducting the Metropolitan Opera in New York. He is currently the

music director of the Philadelphia Orchestra and Rotterdam Philharmonic Orchestra.

• Continuing to celebrate community, musicians of the Greater Victoria Youth Orchestra take the stage with the VS and renowned pianist and local favourite Lorraine Min in January.

• The acclaimed Angela Cheng takes on all five Beethoven Piano Concertos in three days in March. This Beethoven Festival will showcase her amazing talent as well as celebrate the genius of Beethoven.

• Early April sees the triumphant return of the VS from its 75th Anniversary Legacy Tour through Quebec City, Toronto, Ottawa and Vancouver.

• The 75th season culminates in one of the most recognized pieces of classical music: Beethoven’s Ninth Symphony. For this, the VS will be joined by two favourite collaborators, the Victoria Choral Society and Victoria Philharmonic Choir to celebrate the joy of live music.

MORE BOULEVARD BUZZ For music lovers: • Presented by the Victoria Jazz Society, five-time Grammy Award winners Blind Boys of Alabama return to Victoria after an eight year absence for a spectacular holiday show, on Tuesday, December 15 at UVic Farquhar Auditorium. Opening act is Maureen Washington, a powerhouse vocalist who consistently charms audiences at the TD Victoria International JazzFest.

• Sidney Classical Orchestra will be performing a Cornucopia of Concertos on Sunday, January 17, conducted by Stephen Brown and featuring violinist Nancy DiNovo — who is a favourite of the audience and orchestra alike. The concert will be held at St. Elizabeth’s Catholic Church, 10030 Third Street in Sidney. For more information or to reserve tickets, please call 250-480-1133.

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For lovers of humanity: World Vision has some ideas for “ethical gift-giving” this Christmas (find them all at catalogue.worldvision.ca/collections/ all-gifts). Included are two gifts that benefit people close to home: $25 purchases a gift to the Canadian Assistance Fund, aimed at helping the more than one million Canadian children who live in poverty. A gift of $30 to Feed a Hungry Family in Canada will help provide food for those in need.

For Christmas lovers: • Christmas in Old Town at the Royal BC Museum kicks off in December, featuring a towering Christmas tree, wood cobbled streets laced with festive garlands and shops decked in seasonal finery. Father Christmas visits and hangs around for photos from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m., December 4-6, 11-13 and 18-12.

• Also at the museum: Helmcken House Old-Fashioned Christmas. Step through the doors of the oldest house in BC that’s still on its original site, and experience what Christmas would have been like in Victoria over 100 years ago. Decorations, music and first-hand accounts will take you back to Christmas past. This year, you can also visit St. Ann’s Schoolhouse, where volunteers from the Society of Friends of St. Ann’s Academy will be on hand to share the history and accomplishments of the Sisters.

December 20 to January 4, from noon to 4 p.m.

The holidays may come and go but performance is always in season. Visit Jaguar Victoria during the “Unwrap a Jaguar” Sales Event for special offers on Jaguar xF, xJ, and F-TyPE models. offers end January 4th.

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Holiday ENTERTAINING

Craigdarroch Castle dresses in festive finery for the holiday season.

• A Christmas Carol at Craigdarroch Castle: Jason Stevens’ one-man adaptation of this classic runs December 3-5, 9-12, 16-18 and 22-23. Tickets are $20 or $15 for members and include a tour of the castle. Stevens’ tour-de-force performance has received rave reviews, and is a tribute to the one-man performances staged by Dickens himself during his sold-out tours of Europe and North America.

• Stevens also stars in the “new this December” Carigdarroch Castle presentation of “My First Christmas Dinner in Victoria, 1860” by D.W. Higgins — A Staged Reading. The story paints the forlorn picture of a destitute family, struggling to survive in Victoria after their gold claims went bust. But a small act of kindness and a romantic love forever change this family’s fortune The performance will be prefaced by a brief talk by historian Kate Humble, who will provide historical context for mid-19th century Victoria and the Dickensian tradition of good, old-fashioned storytelling. Performances run Dec. 27-30 at 6 pm.

22

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inspiredPEOPLE

TV director MIke Rohl on the set of The Bridge, filmed in Victoria.

MIKE ROHL on superheroes, the supernatural and filming in super VictoriA

by KORINA MILLER Photos by ARNOLD LIM

M

ike Rohl is not one to shy away from superheroes and demons. As a TV director who likes to stretch himself across diverse projects, he actually seeks them out.

Drawn into film by the work of Martin Scorsese and David Lynch, Rohl’s big break into directing came in 1998 with First Wave, a TV series on Syfy. Since then, he’s become one of Canada’s busiest TV directors with over 40 different shows under his belt. His latest project, The Bridge, has brought him and his crew to Victoria.

24

Rohl moved to Vancouver in 1989 after finishing film school in his native Calgary. He’d reached a crossroads: he could head out east or take a left to the coast. The film industry was just beginning to burgeon in Vancouver, but Rohl took a chance. He’s been based on the west coast ever since.

Over the years, Rohl has been drawn to a broad spectrum of projects, with genres ranging from space to historical romance, crime and science fiction. Some of his best-known

productions include Reign, Beauty and the Beast, The Chris Isaac Show, Smallville and Supernatural.

“What I’ve noticed in my career is that what I look for in a project changes from year to year,” Rohl says. “These days, I look for projects that have lots of dramatic quality; projects that are well written and have something that I can dig into with the actors. I’m going to steal from Roman Polanski here, but I want to elicit as much emotion from the audience as possible.”

“It makes shooting here feel like being on a big backlot — lots of choices, unique architecture, the forest, the ocean.”

To achieve this, Rohl doesn’t entirely subscribe to the process of either technical directing — where the focus is on camera shots and effects — or acting directing, where the focus rests on the script and the actors.

“I’m kind of a blend of both. In TV you need to be aware of the technical side. You have to adapt to so many different scenarios. For example, Smallville was a superhero show that required a lot of technical knowledge in order to create a featurelike scope, but you also had to understand the nuances of the characters from a human point of view and with a human edge — an honest and real human component. You had to use both sides of your brain.”

Despite his many accolades, Rohl knows which work he most wants to be remembered for. In its 11th season, awardwinning Supernatural is North America’s longest running science fiction television show and one of Rohl’s biggest successes. Its popularity has spun off into fan conventions and fanfiction.

“Supernatural has definitely gotten me the biggest consistent fan appreciation. There is a dedicated and wonderful fan group,” he says.

Equally rewarding was his work on Smallville, which followed the young superman character, Clark Kent, dealing with everyday teenage problems alongside coming to grips with his super powers.

“Smallville was very special. It was feature television, which is as close to a big action film as a television show can get. It was the precursor to Green Arrow, Super Girl — it led the way for so many other shows. It was the first of its kind.”

Filmed in Oak Bay and Esquimalt, Rohl’s current project is worlds away from superheroes and science fiction. The Bridge is a two-part adaptation of Karen Kingsbury’s book of the same title.

“In a nutshell, it’s a Christmas romance about two people who discover each other, but also who they are and who they’re supposed to be, through each other,” Rohl says. “That’s why they fall in love. It kind of like a fairy tale.”

The original story takes place in a small southern town called Franklin, Tennessee. When an appropriate film location didn’t surface around Vancouver, Rohl turned to the island.

“Victoria was in close proximity and has wonderful looks. I felt

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Mike Rohl says the experience of filming in Victoria has been a highly positive one.

 Equipment and people working on the set of the two-part adaptation of The Bridge.

we could achieve what was intended in the book by coming here.”

The experience of filming in Victoria has been positive, he adds.

“It’s a jurisdiction that hasn’t been used a lot for the most part, so people who live here are very welcoming. They’re into film companies,” Rohl says, adding, “There’s a great inventory of locations and looks and all in close proximity. It makes shooting here feel like being on a big backlot — lots of choices, unique architecture, the forest, the ocean — a lot of stuff in a small area.”

“In our budget area, we tend to shoot outside Vancouver — in Langley or Cloverdale. Compared to those places, Victoria has the upper hand. It may cost us extra but the trade off with 26

quality of locations and the people that live here and work in the industry, make it worthwhile.”

Rohl believes Victoria could attract a growing number of film crews.

“If there is local interest in creating a bit of a production hub in Victoria, I think that it has a great chance of continuing to support film making. If someone were to create an infrastructure for us — a small studio and some equipment — I think it could do well. Victoria offers some locations and certain looks that are rare in Vancouver. It would be great for Victoria. It’s great for economic diversity.”

Rohl has already begun work on his next two projects:

Mike Rohl and others on the set of The Bridge.

one, a mystery fantasy called Crossing Lethe, and the other a 70s drama about a family of private detectives. His passion for directing means he’s always trying new genres and testing new waters.

“I love the ability to tell a story as honestly as possible and being in a position to translate a script into what an audience views. It’s an important and high responsibility. I get to reflect on myself and there’s the satisfaction of seeing 28

something completed that I oversaw. It’s the kind of career where you’re constantly improving but continue learning more about who you are. You’re constantly being tested in new scenarios.”

It seems like a bit of the superhero qualities have rubbed off on Rohl because with each new production, he keeps coming out on top.

The Bridge airs on Hallmark Channel, beginning December 6.

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COVER STORY

All the comforts of the indoors have been brought outdoors.

Pool by Bayside Pools; outdoor furniture from Dig This; Napoleon fireplace from Capital Iron.

30

Home is on the lanai A Getaway oasis in the heart of the city

by Jaiya Anka Photos by GARY MCKINSTRY 31

Hourigan’s Flooring provided the “Lauzon White Oak Urban Loft” flooring in the dining room, kitchen and central hallway.

W

hat if you could stay at home in order to feel like you’ve gotten away from it all? One Victoria couple has created such a place.

Together with 360 Degree Construction, they’ve carefully woven a home that combines the necessities of the everyday with all of the trimmings of the great escape.

What began as an ambitious renovation, evolved into a virtual new-build where the couple was able to create exactly the kind of home they were envisioning — a place where family and friends could gather, inside and out, all year round.

32

In 2013, the owners felt as though they needed a change.

They decided to sell the home in which they had raised their family — their children had all moved on, and the home no longer suited their needs. Never ones to shy away from a challenge, they opted for a “project,” one that would allow them to create a different kind of home, together.

With the help of Garry Hermann (the owner of 360 Degree Construction), they looked at several properties over six months and finally settled on a bungalow that had only two previous owners.

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Kitchen countertops are “Caesarstone Bianco Drift” by Colonial Countertops; cabinetry is custom built by Innovative Kitchens and Baths; and lighting fixtures are from Mclaren Lighting.

But it looked as though it belonged in a 1960s time capsule (think wallpaper, intricate iron railings and a transistor radio in a bathroom to go with the pink bathtub).

What set this property apart from the others was its location on a quieter street close to the university and a golf course, and the size of the lot itself (11,618 square feet). Even before the renovated home was created on it, the property provided a unique type of sanctuary with its very own grove of Garry Oak trees and a resident family of ducks.

“What made this project really work were the people — the team,” recalls Hermann. “There was a continual dialogue with the clients who weren’t afraid to push the design elements. And there was a real simpatico with the design and construction team; these people are topnotch and that makes all the difference.”

Along with changing addresses, the owners decided to change their style, trading in their more traditional sensibility to embrace a modern and streamlined aesthetic.

“We wanted something simple,” says the owner with a smile.

“Sure, a renovation is a big project and the house is not a small house, but really it was about creating a home that contained everything that we would want and need. ” Plans were drafted — at the hand of 360 Degree Construction and Will Peereboom of Victoria Design Group — and construction began in the spring of 2014. The couple moved in 10 months later.

“We started with a blank canvas. We really thought about what was important (or essential) to us.”

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For our photo shoot: floral design by Vanessa Watters of Verbena Floral Design Inc.; home accessories from Bespoke Design; women’s wear from Bagheera Boutique and menswear from Citizen Clothing. Models are Adam Nagasaki and Shelly McCaffrey.

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S o u t h I t a l y, Puglia, Salento.

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The cozy, 323-squarefoot family room includes a sofa from Luxe and windows by Westeck Windows and Doors.

“We started with a blank canvas,” the owner remembers. “We really thought about what was important (or essential) to us.”

The design mandate called for a “complete” environment, one that married the ideas of a home in the city with those of a vacation property. This tone is set from the moment you approach the front walkway. Created in collaboration with Demitasse Landscaping, the landscaping design works in concert with, and provides texture for, the home: large, floating concrete-blocklike steps are accentuated by a series of plants and are accompanied by the gentle sounds of a nearby water feature. You have the sense that you’re in for something out of the ordinary.

And once you step through the front door, the home just opens up.

“We moved walls around, widened and lengthened the original staircase and pushed up the ceiling height of the original home,” recalls the owner. “We wanted the home to feel expansive.”

The addition of skylights and plenty of windows throughout the space and a soft, neutral palette augment a feeling of both openness and tranquility.

Hermann notes that the project was a collaborative, organic process where the design could play out primarily over the main level, where the couple does most of their living. The layout optimizes a central plan and the opening of sightlines to reveal the couple’s thoughtfully curated art collection.

The owners collaborated with Sandy Nygaard on the interior design elements, from the choice of the lighting fixtures to the colour palette. To cultivate this feeling of a sanctuary, a neutral natural palette unifies the entire space. Soft greens and mushroom tones complement the home’s natural light and bring the outdoors in.

To one side of the main hallway, a master bedroom now takes the place of the house’s original

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living room. The bedroom has its own spa-like en suite, which is bathed in an abundance of southern light and adorned with two Buddha statues.

On the other side of the main hallway, an enlarged guest bedroom, a powder room and a home office built for two complete the floor plan of the original house.

And then the big reveal happens — the “Great Room” emerges. The former back wall of the house was removed and an open living space of 872 square feet was added, complete with 14-foot-high ceilings. The addition accommodates the dining room, a family room and a kitchen, all designed with relaxed living in mind.

Nygaard also designed a large island made from flat cut alder, stained in espresso, which takes centre stage in a workspace that interacts with the interior, but overlooks the spacious backyard.

And stepping through the back door, you enter what is considered the heart of this home.

“This lanai is where we do most of our living,” says the owner. “We ate dinner out here every night for our first six months here. In fact, this is where we had our vacation!”

This nearly 400-square foot deck has been covered by a roof, which holds two skylights and oversees two couches by the outdoor gas fireplace, a harvest table and a gas BBQ. The swimming pool, a hammock and a pool house complete with a change room, lie just beyond. The backyard has also been transformed with the help of Kathryn and Melissa of Demitasse Landscaping who the owner recognizes as “just awesome to work with!”

Stairway railings and glass were custom built by Excalibor Glass and Aluminum, while the nosings and risers were provided

by Innovative Kitchens and Bath.

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Among the special touches in this bathroom are light fixtures by Mclaren Lighting, plumbing fixtures by Victoria Specialty Hardware, and a countertop in “Caesarstone Frosty Carrina” from Colonial Countertops.

While you might feel as though you’ve been transported to a world away, the home is consistent with the context of neighbourhood.

“The idea for the front porch is from a magazine article I kept,” enthuses the owner.

Just as the team wanted to push the design elements of this new home to realize greater heights, the owners wanted to start with the entranceway: “We started by wanting to expand the porch to see what was possible. And, well, we just love it!”

38

Supplier List: Contractor/Builder: 360 Degree Construction; Victoria Design Group provided design and drawing services for the building permit application and updated drawings for site-driven changes.

Interior Designers: Nygaard Interior Design Exterior/Interior Painting: Garden City Painting — Paul Walters Cabinetry: Innovative Kitchens — Dallas King Counters: Colonial Countertops Flooring: Hourigans — Joel Roper Appliances: Coast Appliances Plumbing fixtures: Victoria Specialty Hardware — Alisha Kelly Lighting: Mclaren Lighting Fireplaces: 3 FP and 1 BBQ, Capital Iron — Jon Hurley

Original art by Nanaimo artist Grant Leier graces the walls.

LOCALLY HANDCRAFTED DESIGNER KITCHENS

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39

TALKING WITH TESS

“Vancouver Island marble is some of the most beautiful marble in the world and it’s not found anywhere else.”

MAGNIFICENT MARBLE Harnessing nature’s beauty, one countertop at a time Text by Tess van Straaten Photos by Don Denton

40

F

or Matrix Marble & STONE’s Ivo Zanatta, each massive slab of stone in his family’s iconic Duncan factory and showroom is a work of art.

“They’re pieces of nature, they’re works of art and they’re very special,” says Zanatta, who’s been at the helm of the family business for 16 years. “Nature creates all these patterns — it’s not a designer in New York or Paris — and each one is unique.”

Matrix Marble & Stone was started by Zanatta’s father, Dennis, in 1980. Moving to Canada from his native Italy, Dennis Zanatta had a vision to bring his artisan craft to Vancouver Island. Thirty-five years later, Matrix carries the largest selection of marble and stone on Vancouver Island and is a major supplier of specialized building products.

“My father and my mother brought natural stone to Vancouver Island and they were the first to do this kind of work here,” Zanatta says. “They also brought grapes to Vancouver Island and had the first vineyard, bringing wine-making [here] as well. So when you think about it, my parents brought more investment to the Cowichan Valley than any other industry.”

Zanatta says his parents wanted to bring the things they loved to their new home and their intention was to show what

Vancouver Island could produce. Yet, despite their passion for the island and their love of natural stone — which they imported from all over the world — the Zanattas had no idea just how popular local marble would become.

“Vancouver Island marble is some of the most beautiful marble in the world and it’s not found anywhere else,” Zanatta explains. “It’s the only white marble quarried in Canada and it’s typical of the geological formation of Vancouver Island, which makes it unique.”

First Nations have known about the island’s special black, white and grey marbles for centuries, and early settlers on the island used it to make grave markers.

When black marble was discovered near Cowichan Lake in 1990, Dennis Zanatta made arrangements to start quarrying it.

Six years later, the Zanatta family scouted a source for white and grey marble near Tahsis and the rest is history.

Vancouver Island is now one of the main sources for white, grey and black marble in western North America and while kitchen counters and marble bathrooms are Matrix’s bread and butter — they do a countertop a day — the Duncan company has also been commissioned to undertake many unique projects, both at home and abroad.

“We’ve done some incredible projects over the years,” Zanatta

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“Nature creates all these patterns — it’s not a designer in New York or Paris — and each one is unique.”

Ivo Zanatta in the Matrix Marble & Stone warehouse, located in Duncan.

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says. “Last year we did Canada House — the embassy in London, England — creating huge custom tiles out of Vancouver Island white marble. We’ve also done many sculptures, including one at the Victoria Police headquarters.”

Specialized, computercontrolled equipment at Matrix’s fabrication facility means they can carve almost any shape from blocks of stone.

But even after decades of experience in the family business and honing his craft in Italy, Toronto and Vancouver, Ivo Zanatta says working with natural material is always tricky. “[It’s a] challenge because what you’re doing is trying to take something that’s not perfect and make it look perfect,” Zanatta says. “You’re trying to take the best out of something and the beauty out of something that has imperfections.”

For Zanatta, who learned the art of fine stonework from his father and still takes pride in being a hands-on boss who “works the tools” to this day, took over the family business in 1999. Continuing his father’s legacy was a natural progression.

“When you grow up in something and you’ve been immersed in something since the beginning it’s not intimidating at all,” explains Zanatta.

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Zanatta says his biggest challenge came a decade later, with the recession. It had a huge impact on the business because all the work on high-end homes dried up.

“That market has virtually disappeared and we’re still recovering from that,” Zanatta says. “After the recession, price became more of a concern than quality, so now people are building high-end homes and importing materials from China. The price might be lower, but the quality isn’t there.”

Zanatta’s hoping environmental concerns, and a resurgence in buying local, will help. The company has also diversified with a popular line of LEED® qualified marble pavers, which add a touch of luxury while being eco-friendly.

For Zanatta, whose home uses all Vancouver Island marble and natural, islandsourced materials, it’s hard to pick a favourite from the more than 100 different types and colours of stone Matrix carries from around the globe.

“My favourite marble changes all the time,” Zanatta says. “One of the great things about the natural stone industry is that new quarries open all the time and new stones are being discovered every day that are incredibly beautiful. Nature is always going to bring us something new to love.”

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FASHION

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With the coldest, darkest days approaching, Boulevard heats things up with fierce fashion that’s perfect for all your winter events.

Ward off the chill in the season’s most luxurious pieces because ‘tis the season to gather and celebrate, and ‘tis the season to dazzle.

By LIA CROWE PHOTOS BY CATHIE FERGUSON

ROGUE AGENT Jacket ($310), leggings ($190), camisole ($85) and sheer over-skirt ($165) all by Joseph Ribkoff and available at Barbara’s Boutique; gold cuff by Alexis Bittar ($295) at Violette Boutique; “Zon” boot by Coclico ($585) at Footloose Shoes.

47

Agent Provocateur Coat by Mallia ($995) and blouse by Marc Cain ($320), both available at W&J Wilson; gold cuff by Alexis Bittar ($295) at Violette Boutique.

Black Widow Leather jacket by Laurèl ($1,600) and sequined dress by Michael Kors ($455), both available at Hughes Clothing; high heal ankle boot by Coclico ($435) at Footloose Shoes; leather gloves by Ralph Lauren ($60) at W&J Wilson.

Quartermaster Wool coat by Part Two ($499), stretch jersey dress by Velvet by Graham & Spencer ($230) and shoes by MJUS ($198), all available at Bagheera Boutique; gold plate necklace by Marc by Marc Jacobs ($198) at Violette Boutique.

Fashion Assassin Custom, full length dress by Bridget Savard Designs. Necklace by Alexis Bittar ($195) at Violette Boutique.

Scottish Royale Dress ($760) and gloves ($175) by Sarah Pacini and available at Hughes Clothing; necklace by Alexis Bittar ($375) at Violette Boutique; shoes by Chie Mihara ($425) at Footloose Shoes.

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Great selection of coats at Baden Baden, please come and visit.

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On board for a

SUPER YACHT CHRISTMAS Text by ANGELA COWAN Photos by Don Denton

Dress from Hughes Clothing. Live, decorated tree from Browns the Florist.

55

Winter boating is common out here on the west coast, according to Captain Aaron Steenbhom of the super yacht Zenith.

56

A

s the first days of December dawn in Victoria, the city takes on a decidedly festive air.

Government Street is lined with twinkling lights, carol singers in 19th-century garb wander the downtown core spreading cheer, and people everywhere seem to walk with an extra spring in their steps and a smile on their lips.

And it's that warm holiday spirit that keeps the 41-metre “super yacht” Zenith coming back each winter, despite the allure of balmier weather south of the border.

“That's the best part about being here,” says Captain Aaron Steenbhom of the holiday season in Victoria. Hailing from Australia, where he says Christmas isn't nearly as big of an affair as it is in North America, Steenbhom and his family take full advantage of Victoria's slate of events, as they and the rest of the crew turn the Zenith into a Christmas wonderland, tree and all.

“To me it's no different than a house,” adds Steenbhom.

Though, to be fair, most houses come with a slightly smaller price tag.

A sleek and spotless catamaran, the Zenith was launched in late 2012 after a pause in construction. The original owner initiated its construction from scratch several years earlier, but he passed away six months before it was finished, and left it to his widow and children.

With a final price tag of approximately $41 million, it's clear upon touring the boat that no expense was spared.

American Rock Maple lines the walls, trimmed with a richly hued Queensland Maple, and an impossibly thin marble flooring over lightweight panels gives the interior a luxuriant aesthetic without sacrificing the vessel’s speed. Larger-thanaverage windows combine with exquisite handmade Israeli light fixtures designed to evoke a deep-sea feel, and creating a soft yet abundant light throughout. And plush carpet runs the length of the halls and stairwells, while the roomy galley is floorto-ceiling pristine stainless steel.

The Zenith shines with a freshly polished feel, yet it's still inviting.

Red accents in an oversized vase or a couch cushion add a warm touch, as does the thickly textured burgundy and cream dining chairs. It's easy to imagine curling up in front of the trimmed Christmas tree with a steaming cup of hot cocoa, gazing out over the harbour at the lighted Parliament buildings.

In past years, crew members have stayed on board to celebrate Christmas day, including Steenbhom, his wife Nicolette, and their four-year-old son, who's quite happy to welcome guests to the Zenith.

“For him, this is just normal. He calls it his boat,” says Steenbhom with a laugh. “He'll tell the owner to come visit him on his boat.”

The festivities have even included a Christmas lunch, and an

No expense was spared in building the $41 million super yacht Zenith.

“[We] do a lot of winter boating, and it's really nice, especially in the dead of winter, surprisingly.”

The galley is floor-to-ceiling chrome, and the site of much festive cooking during the Christmas season.

57

The lavish dining area of the super yacht Zenith.

overflowing table of all the traditional, carb-laden North American dishes.

“Australians aren't big on Christmas dinner,” he says. “We do more of a lunch, but we had everything: stuffed turkey, ham, mashed potatoes. There was a lot of cooking.”

Spending Christmas day itself on the water is a bit unusual, says the captain, especially if the boat stays in colder waters for the season. Most super yacht owners opt for sipping a cocktail under a Caribbean sun at this time of year. But winter boating is common out here on the west coast.

“We're very fortunate we do get mild winters,” says Mark Dickinson, president of Van Isle Marina in Sidney. “We have that benefit that nobody else in Canada has.”

And while many local boaters may not spend Christmas on the water, Dickinson says, many of his friends do take to the seas for New Year's Eve celebrations.

“They'll enjoy three or four days out on the boat, and it doesn't really matter what the weather is like,” he says. “My wife and I do a lot of winter boating, and it's really nice, especially in the dead of winter, surprisingly. The windy times are in the fall and the spring.”

With such a mild climate, there aren't many extras on the todo lists to get the boats ready for the colder months, either, with one possible exception.

“You'd maybe add an extra bottle of scotch,” laughs Dickinson. “That's what I'd do!”

Back on the Zenith, Steenbhom notes that while the yacht may get dressed up for the season with lights, mistletoe and poinsettias, nothing can quite compare with the show that Victoria puts on every year.

Steenbhom and his wife bundle up their young son for the annual Island Farms Santa Light Parade, the enormous

Christmas tree light-up — and free hot chocolate — at the Parliament buildings, and they venture into the Royal BC Museum when Father Christmas makes his yearly appearance.

But perhaps one of the biggest treats of the season is when the Zenith anchors at Butchart Gardens' private dock, and they take in the magic of the Twelve Days of Christmas displays, made up of thousands of lights brought to life with traditional carol singers and a four-piece, tuxedo-clad brass band that give a twist to everything from “Frosty the Snowman” to “Feliz Navidad.”

And after all the sights have been seen and all the hot chocolate finished, that peculiar hush of Christmas morning will steal over the Zenith, broken only by the occasional slap of water on the hull, to where filled stockings and beribboned gifts await beneath a glowing tree, despite the lack of a chimney for the big man to slide down.

Although it's a world away from the average experience, the yacht is home, says Steenbhom. And Mr. Claus can find his way into every home.

Quick Facts The Zenith:

is fully staffed with a crew of seven has had the same permanent crew since its launch in 2012 • has an annual operating budget of $1 million, much of which goes into the local economies where it docks • sleeps 10, excluding crew • has two fully equipped galleys, a formal dining room and en suites in each guest room • is for sale, although not while in Canadian or American waters — contact the Cambridge Yacht Group for more information: cambridgeyg.com • •

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HAWTHORN

Level Ground Trading co-founders Stacey Toews and Laurie Klaassen at their Brentwood Bay home and farm.

FAIR TRADE victoria Coffee company wants to change the world Text by TOM HAWTHORN Photos by LIA CROWE

61

Josh del Sol, roastmaster and QC specialist, serves up a cup of java at Level Ground Trading’s Saanichton location.

A

faucet releases a splashing flow of cold water. Beans roasted to a beautiful black-brown colour tumble with a soft click into a grinder, before its whirring blades chop and grind the material into fine grounds. A kettle's whistle announces the water has come

to a bubbling boil. With a gurgle it is poured atop the grounds, the room filling with the aromatic delight of fresh coffee.

This morning reverie is a daily routine for many. In one generation, coffee has gone from an ordinary grocery store purchase to a more expensive (but more delicious) luxury gleaned from among a bewildering array of choices. Light roast, dark roast, French roast, decaf. Colombia, Sumatra, Ethiopia, Peru. Brand A, Brand B, Brand X. With all those decisions to make, the most important verdict of all is too easy to overlook.

Where does your money go? Who benefits from your purchase? What if your desire for a tasty-butinexpensive cup of joe makes the world a worse place?

Some thoughtful local entrepreneurs and their hardworking staff are dedicated to making the planet a better, fairer place through coffee. They seek to be a link in a chain stretching from small farms in the southern highlands of Tanzania to a spotless roasting facility in Saanichton and, perhaps, to the French press sitting on your kitchen counter.

The facility on Keating Cross Road is home to Level Ground Trading, an 18-year-old, for-profit company that imports coffee, tea, rice, dried fruit, vanilla and spices. Their signs of success work back through a chain — a satisfied consumer in Canada, happy employees in Saanichton, and — especially — fairly compensated farmers in the Third World.

“We're in business,” pronounces co-owner Stacey Toews, “to get rid of poverty.”

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250 595 5639

Level Ground is dedicated to fair trade. They deal directly with farmers, avoiding the industry's middlemen, sometimes known as coyotes. By avoiding brokers, the hope is more money will wind up in the hands of people who work the hardest, the farmers in the fields.

“We shake the hands of the people who pick the coffee,” Toews said.

Some of those workers wind up on the packages of the company's products. The organic coffee from Tanzania features a photograph of a seamstress named Agnes, who works at a bean-washing station at Luswisi in the Mbazi district of the East African nation. (With the money paid for giving permission for use of her photo, she bought a new sewing machine.)

In a display of transparency, Level Ground posts online all transactions for buying green coffee. In June, 300 sacks (holding nearly 40,000 pounds of beans) were bought at $2.40 US per pound.

The $95,240 US was then distributed with 53 per cent going to farmers, a third to the local co-operative, and another 13 per cent in premiums, helping fund healthcare for about 675 people in the households involved in the project.

The company started in 1997 with the ambition of improving through trade the lives of disadvantaged producers working farms smaller than five hectares (12 acres). Working with Hugo Ciro, a Colombian, the company bought a half-container of beans from his homeland. (Even today, Ciro “is the guy who does the fair trade,” Toews said, “and I'm the guy who talks about it.”) The green beans were roasted after-hours at a Victoria roaster with small batches prepared between midnight and 5 a.m. each day.

The roasted coffee from Colombia was sold to their first customer, Ten Thousand Villages, a non-profit program of the Mennonite Central Committee of Canada in which fair-trade crafts and products are sold in retail outlets. Level Ground

“We believe there is a sustainable way of eradicating poverty.”

Over 30 Years Of Making

HOMe renOvatiOn DreaMs a realitY!

began to grow — moving out of Ciro's garage and into a small warehouse not far from its current site. They also bought a roaster of their own, capable of handling one-quarter of a 70-kilogram (about 154 pounds) sack of beans at a time. Soon, coffee beans were being also bought from farmers in Bolivia.

Since fluctuations in the international price for coffee were unpredictable and possibly harmful for the farmers, Level Ground began to buy the fruit from the trees shading the coffee plants, ensuring the growers a stable source of income.

In the early days, Toews and his business and life partner Laurie Klassen worked out of a Volkswagen van they had equipped to receive internet, as there was no space for both of them and Hugo to work.

Toews has thick forearms with ropey muscles, like you might expect on a farmer, which he is as well. The couple live on a hobby farm in Brentwood Bay with their four children, where they put into practice a philosophy of a closed-loop, sustainable food system. They keep a milk cow whose diet keeps the lawn short while fertilizing it. More recently, the family got rid of electric incubators, relying on the chickens to hatch the eggs they laid.

Their company has now gone 11 years without sending material to the landfill. Their facility is organic-certified and boasts zero waste. Employees are paid to ride bicycles to work, or to carpool. After years of collecting coffee packaging for recycling (some were stitched into packages for tote bags), the company now uses a compostable material. Good for the bottom line and good for the planet.

Overseas, farmers are amenable to adopting sustainable practices when confident their income is secure. In 18 years of business, now expanded to include spice growers in Sri Lanka and farmers of heirloom rice in the Philippines, the company has yet to end a trading relationship.

This is a time of year when many reflect on their blessings and on their lives. At the Toews and Klassen farm, as at their business, they seek to change the world in a grand way through the accumulated benefits of small gestures.

“We believe there is a sustainable way of eradicating poverty,” Toews said.

By leveraging consumer habits in the developed world, growers in the developing world can be lifted out of hardship.

That's a lot to get out of a morning cup of coffee.

R E N O VAT I O N S ESTABLISHED 1980

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www.macreno.ca 250.412.8012 | 825 Viewfield Road, Victoria, BC

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VICTORIA’S FINEST REAL ESTATE

LU X U R Y A T YOU R DOO R S T E P

Contemporary Design

Luxury Waterfront

Bayview One

608 Norris Road, Victoria, BC $1,595,000 | MLS 352855

8355 Lochside Drive, Victoria, BC $4,950,000 | MLS 351157

610-100 Saghalie Road, Victoria, BC Price Reduced – $899,000 | MLS 356111

Launch your kayaks at the nearby beach & revel in the serene surroundings. Ocean & mountain views are framed from the numerous windows in this stunning contemporary build offering 4 bedrooms and a grand master suite.

High caliber finishings; detached private studio space & 2 car garage. A private parcel with a 2000+sq ft wrap around patio.

6000 sq ft Oceanfront home on 2.2 acres; offering 400 feet of low bank Saanich Peninsula waterfront. The unique design throughout allows full panoramic views. Luxury is paramount throughout the home; demonstrating the calibre of the home’s overall complete renovation. Pool, spa, steam, fitness room & outdoor sport court complete this lifestyle oasis.

Open concept condo in the Bayview One. Engineered hardwood flooring, granite back splash, countertops & SS appliances. 2 Master suites each with 5-pce baths. Spacious main living area; high ceilings, and floor to ceiling windows capture the south-west views.

Spectacular 180° views of the inner harbour from the expansive balcony!

Private Acreage, Modern Design

Beautiful Waterfront

Stunning Home & Views

305 Matterhorn Drive, Victoria, BC $1,895,000 | MLS 356716

2250 Dolphin Road, North Saanich, BC Price Reduced – $898,000 | MLS 357521

695 Cains Way, Victoria, BC $2,200,000 | MLS 356825

Full renovation; 4800 sq ft. Luxury master wing and ensuite; walk over the interior bridge to the modern kitchen, living/dining space. The lower level opens to a great room, 2 bedrooms and gym/media room. A detached 1000 sq ft, 2 bedroom suite offers revenue potential. Located only 15 min. from downtown. Rare privacy, stunning views!

Stunning views optimized throughout this home. Meticulous woodwork and custom built-ins. Master thoughtfully staged on the main. Walk-out lower level with family room, 2 bedrooms & full bath. A self-contained studio suite with separate patio access. Private & bright detached art studio with 220 amp and water; surrounded in mature gardens.

Privileged ocean and Olympic mountain views.

Brilliant contemporary, open design. A showpiece kitchen; with stainless steel appliances, Canadian walnut cabinets, spacious central island, and dramatic black honed granite countertops. Master suite features 30 foot ceilings.

2 private suites and a detached studio. This private oasis is only 30 minutes from Victoria.

©2015 Engel & Völkers. All rights reserved.

Each brokerage is independently owned and operated.

735 Humboldt Street, Victoria BC, Canada V8W 1B1

The local real estate agent with the international network: vi.evcanada.com Scott Piercy Personal Real Estate Corporation 250-686-7789 scott.piercy@evcanada.com www.luxurybchomes.com vi.evcanada.com

Custom Luxury Home

Ocean View Condo

275° Ocean Views

75 Norquay Road, Victoria, BC $879,000 | MLS 357610

507-365 Waterfront Crescent, Victoria, BC Price Reduced – $635,000 | MLS 356157

1096 Quatsino Drive, North Saanich, BC $1,599,000 | MLS 355633

Custom built, 2012 luxury, ocean view home.

Modern design; statement dual-sided stone fireplace, 21’ vaulted ceiling & suspended walkway. Open chef’s kitchen features SS appliances, coffered ceilings, & large quartz island. Main floor master offers a 6-piece bath.

Upstairs provides 2 beds, 2 baths, & 2 covered balconies. Spacious media room with separate entrance offers Bachelor suite potential.

1,368 square foot corner suite in the coveted Selkirk Waterfront Community. Room to grow, the condo offers 2 bedrooms and additional office; Master boasts a large walkin and 5 piece ensuite. Hardwood flooring, 10 foot ceilings, oak cabinetry, granite countertops, and stainless steel appliances.

South-East facing balcony invites city and stunning ocean vistas.

275 degrees of ocean vistas from Brentwood Bay through to Salt Spring Island. This spectacular 4 bedroom home offers deck or patio space from every room! Vaulted ceiling, floor to ceiling windows and skylights invite a bright exposure. Open concept; kitchen, dining and living space all share the expansive 60+ foot deck. 3 car garage, carport and workshop.

Waterfront Acreage

Spacious Bear Mountain Home

275 Acres!

483 Dunmora Court, Central Saanich, BC $2,300,000 | MLS 354280

975 Ironwood Court, Victoria, BC $799,000 | MLS 347609

Lot 143 Trans Canada Hwy, Victoria, BC $1,799,000 | MLS 344853

Endless possibilities; 2.5 Waterfront sun drenched acres on the coveted south-west side of the Saanich Peninsula. Construct your custom dream home in this private location in the prestigious Dunmora Estates. An existing 50 foot deep water dock is situated oceanfront and deep water moorage is provided. Nearby to the Victoria International Airport & BC Ferries.

Tasteful interior designs throughout. The kitchen offers a large center island, quartz countertops, and adjacent deck space with privacy awarded by the stunning Arbutus trees.

Master on the main; upstairs 3 bedrooms and den. A large entertainment area is offered on the lower level; and a self-contained legal 2 bedroom suite.

Unparalleled West Coast beauty. Stunning mountain and ocean views on this world class 275 acre property. Panoramic views from the Saanich Peninsula, to the glimmering lights of downtown Victoria. Many access roads throughout the property, flat topography, and around two pristine lakes. Just outside of Victoria makes this parcel idyllic and full of potential!

©2015 Engel & Völkers. All rights reserved.

Each brokerage is independently owned and operated.

735 Humboldt Street, Victoria BC, Canada V8W 1B1

The local real estate agent with the international network: vi.evcanada.com James LeBlanc Personal Real Estate Corporation 250-812-7212 james.leblanc@evcanada.com www.luxurybchomes.com vi.evcanada.com

®

binab group LD

LD

SO

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2159 Spirit Ridge 357824

960,000

$

2299 Compass Pointe Pl. (lot only) $ 346639 825,000

2203 Spirit Ridge Drive $ 914,000 357595 G IN M ON COSO

1162 Aspen Road $1,400,000 348659 11195 C H a l e t roa d

call for details

1781 C e da r H i l l C ro s s roa d

Muse Winery $

Award-Winning Oak Bay Home

984 Seapearl Place $ 1,245,000 352881

356674 2,800,000

$

357254 7 37 55 7, 020504 $

775,000

2235 Epworth Street $ 675,000 357470

3 - 88 Dallas Road $ 500,000 354375

224 Edward Street $ 354929 500,000

1906 Stelly’s Cross Road $ 750,000 354391

4-910 Maltwood 357365

216 Michigan Street $ 356672 895,000

I TA LY

FRANCE

LONDON

C A L I F OR N IA

GERMANY

N E W YO R K

South Elevation

590,000

$

HONG KONG

F LOR I DA

MONTREAL

TORONTO

C A L G A RY

V IC TOR IA

1286 Fairfield Road Victoria, BC

The Value of Experience

39 Maquinna Street | $2,950,000

Sylvia Therrien Personal Real Estate Corporation

2802 Arbutus Road | $2,890,000

SE Waterfront | Quality Construction

Award Winning Executive Home in Wedgewood Estates

4069 Haro Road | $2,850,000

935 Royal Terrace | $1,795,000 incl. GST

1470 Rockland Avenue | $2,795,000

224 Superior Street | $1,995,000

1 Acre Waterfront | Foreshore | Walk-on Waterfront

Abbeymoore Manor B&B

Rockland | Brand New Construction

Albion Manor B&B

Sylvia@SylviaTherrien.ca • LuxuryWaterfront.ca • SylviaTherrien.ca 250.385.2033 • Cell: 250.888.6621 • Toll-free: 1.888.886.1286

WLISA WILLIAMS 10 MIle poINt

SAANICHtoN

10 MIle poINt

4015 loCkeHAveN dR.

1339 Hovey Rd.

4041 pAlMetto pl.

$2,398,000 INCl. gSt

$998,000

$2,998,000

goRgeouS new 4 bed/5 bth home w/ocean views! Beautifully finished w/hi-ceilings, custom woodwork, 20’ stone FP, deluxe kitchen w/butler’s pantry, luxurious master w/ocean view balcony & FP, media rm, 3-car garage....sunny & quiet 1.2 acre property steps from beach access!

BeAutIfully sunny, level and totally private 3.53 acre property at the end of a quiet culde-sac close to parks, trails and amenities in popular Central Saanich! Unique ‘Santa Fe’ inspired home plus 1917 sqft barn, paddocks, pond, & pasture too!

SpeCtACulAR new 5 bedroom luxury home on a totally private 1 acre property with ocean views! Gorgeous finishing inside & out plus garage parking for 5-6 vehicles & steps to beach, parks & trails... and minutes to Cadboro Bay Village!

gleN lAke

SAANICH

vIeW RoyAl

1035 loCH gleN pl.

3891 SAANICH Rd.

8 lIgHtHouSe lANe

$574,000

$2,398,000

$1,838,000 dAzzlINg lakefront paradise! Custom 6670 sqft home on a quiet and private cul-desac close to absolutely everything! Southfacing with beautiful finishing inside & out, 3-car garage, expansive terraces, lakeside gazebo and private boat dock!

SupeR little 2 bedrm plus den home w/tons of options! Totally renovated main lvl plus full unfinished basement ready for an income helper! Huge 387 sqft enclosed pool could be a fantastic shop or studio plus workshop & lots of parking!

goRgeouS south-facing waterfront home with 170’ ocean frontage & deep water moorage: 220’ of dock space plus lift boathouse!

Elegant, sunny, & open design w/luxurious custom finishing, incredible ocean & Olympic Mt. views & easy access to world-class boating & fishing destinations!

DELIVERING THE HIGHEST CALIBRE OF PROFESSIONALISM & DEDICATED CLIENT SERVICE . . . IF YOU HAVE CONSIDERED SELLING YOUR HOME CALL LISA TODAY! c: 250•514•1966 L I K E N O OT H E R sothebysrealty.ca

Lisa.williams@shaw.ca Independently Owned and Operated

www.LisaWilliams.ca

Breathtaking Views Gaze out at your captivating view and get lost in the vast horizon, where the sky and water meet.

beyond the extraordinary...

$3,300,000 2584 Esplanade Ave., Victoria

$2,195,000 2741 Dalhousie St., Victoria

$1,199,000 1240 Muirfield Pl., Victoria

We take great pride in using our expertise, resources, and global connections to perfectly unite extraordinary places with the extraordinary buyers who will cherish them as we do.

SOPHIA BRIGGS

250.418.5569 sbriggs@sothebysrealty.ca LOCAL EXPERTISE, GLOBAL CONNECTIONS

NANCY STRATTON

250.857.5482 nstratton@sothebysrealty.ca

strattonandbriggs.com

Sotheby’s International Realty Canada, Independently Owned and Operated. Not intended to solicit properties already under agreement. E.&O.E.: This information is from sources which we deem reliable, but must be verified by prospective Purchasers and may be subject to change or withdrawal. Not intended to solicit properties already under agreement

South facing waterfront Beautiful Olympic Mt. view and sandy beach.

2,868 sq.ft. 4 bedroom, new roof, updated kitchen and baths. $1,398,000

o

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easons Greetings

& warm wishes for a wonderful year in 2016 Sheltered SouthweSt facing waterfront. 3,900 sq.ft. 2007 built 4 bedroom home with a legal 1 bedroom suite, dock and boathouse. $1,675,000

from

PROUDLY SERVING VICTORIA FOR 30 YEARS PHONE 250.744.3301 • EMAIL lynne@lynnesager.com WEBSITE www.lynnesager.com Get the results that you desire. Call Lynne for professional representation, when you wish to sell your home.

Dallas Sells Victoria/Oak Bay

Personal real estate CorPoration

NORTH SAANICH HOME + COTTAGE!

MOUNT DOUG

Beautiful custom 2009 home, thoughtfully designed with great attention to detail & quality. Almost 4,000 sq. ft. with 4 bdrms, 6 baths, a gorgeous chef’s dream kitchen & a home theatre. Wood floors, gas fireplace, heat pump, remote control blinds & sound system. Plus 1 bdrm suite! $999,000

LIVE/WORK TOWNHOME

Live/work in Dragon Alley! Fabulous bright, urban townhome with private roof deck!

Main floor entry has versatile living or show room plus kitchen. Owners removed a 2nd bedroom to create a spacious open living area on the 2nd level. Award winning 12 unit complex. Beautiful garden space. $445,000

SO

LD

Beautifully finished 2 level, 4 bedroom, 3 bath home on 1.5 acre with separate 2 bdrm cottage & separate studio. New kitchen, new flooring, lighting, new spa-like ensuite, master on main. 2,438 sq.ft home, 1,612 sq. ft exquisitely finished cottage. Perfect for extended family or mortgage helper. $899,900

“My goal is to find your dream home and ensure that the decision you make stands as a wise investment over the long term.”

BRIGHT CORNER UNIT

Enjoy afternoon sun & gardening on your 457 sq.ft. private patio! Kitchen (with window over sink) renovated with new appliances in 2012, newer hardwood throughout, new light fixtures, designer colours. Roof re-done in 2014. Extremely well run bldg. Perfect for those who are downsizing! $328,500

JUBILEE REVENUE PROPERTY

Excellent will maintained legal duplex with 2 additional in-law suites. 1 block to Jubilee Hospital, Oak Bay Ave, and Fairfield. Three 2 bedroom units & one 1 bedroom unit.

Excellent investment property or live in 1 unit while the income from the other 3 units pays your mortgage! $849,888

COUNTRY IN THE CITY

Historic property with gorgeous gardens, heated greenhouse & wisteria framing front porch. New kitchen in 2013, new roof in 2010, huge dining room with fireplace and built-in cabinets. Cozy den with river rock fireplace. 4 bedrooms upstairs. Wonderful coach house currently rented. $899,800

Dallas Chapple RE/MAX Camosun • Tel: 250.744.3301 • Toll Free: 1.877.652.4880 www.dallaschapple.com • Email: dallas@dallaschapple.com 75

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SELLS V IC TORIA Perso n al R eal E state Co rpo ratio n

FOR SALE

“West Coast Malibu” $1,480,000 Quality Built 5 BD/4BA 3,320 SqFt Prestigious Marina Way Waterfront

s

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li st in g

EXQUISITE WATERFRONT LIVING

$459,000

LovELy LIvE/WoRk

Loft-style condo along storied Fort Street antique row, downtown Victoria. Welcome to The Jigsaw, a steel & concrete 6-unit building built in 2001. Nestled amongst one-of-akind shops, charming coffee houses and 4-star restaurants, this bright and spacious end unit enjoys a soaring 15’ ceiling, 2 bed, 2 bath, 2 cosy fireplaces...2 secure underground parking spaces!! Kitchen designed for the culinary bon vivant with gas stove and high-end appliances. Polished hardwood floors throughout.

$799,000

JEWEL IN FAIRFIELD

“Home is the Canvas on which you are free to Paint your wildest and most beautiful Dreams”

Hamley Street, one of the most beautiful in Victoria, canopied by majestic walnut trees. Elegant and spacious at 2000+ sq ft on 3 levels, this Zebra designed 2004 home will check all the boxes for your rightsizing wishes.Interior features include: big bold windows, brazilian cherry wood floors, wool carpets, dual fuel convection gas stove, heated floors & towel bars in the master bathroom, cosy gas fireplaces in both living and family room, storage spaces and custom closets.

Susanna Crofton RE/MAX Camosun-Oak Bay 250-370-7788 BCSelectHomes.ca

Sharen Warde & Larry SimS

250-592-4422 Camosun

service@WardeSims.com www.WardeSims.com 77

Shoal Harbour Estates A private enclave of 7 Luxurious North Saanich homes providing an incomparable lifestyle and exquisite finishings throughout. Each home is designed to take full advantage of your stunning surroundings. Shoal Harbour Estates offers a range of sizes, prices and specific features to make each home truly spectacular!

Enjoy the executive living surrounded by marinas, close proximity to the airport, ferries and Sidney’s famous Beacon Strip!

Starting at $999,000

+1 250.896.3859 eli@mavrikoscollective.com 2296 Cadboro Bay Road Victoria, BC, V8R 5G9 * #1 Realtor in Sales Pemberton Holmes 2014 * Multiple MLS Gold Award Winner

Contemporary Oceanfront Luxurious Oceanfront home situated alongside Shoal Harbour Estates!

An architecturally designed contemporary home boasting exquisite lines & vaulted ceilings throughout. Bamboo HW Flrs, 22’ high Vaulted ceiling in the Great Room, Exquisite Chef’s Kitchen w/Maple Cabinets & Quartz Counters are only a few of the finishings offered. Enjoy your walk-out private oceanfront and all the action from the surrounding Marinas! $1,898,000

Personal Real Estate Corporation

mavrikoscollective.com GLYNIS MACLEOD

250.661.7232 gmacleod@sothebysrealty.ca

Exceptional Service ... Outstanding Results

8140 Marcott Close, Victoria, BC

Exceptional Victoria Estate

$3,500,000

Rising above magical Mt. Newton Valley is this 6+ bedroom Chateau inspired 2010 masterpiece. Exquisite comfort for the discerning buyer with 11 rolling acres plus a cottage & barn.

Magnificent ocean & valley vistas. Handsomely cast from stone, stucco & wrought iron with copper accents.

Sotheby’s International Realty Canada, Independently Owned and Operated. E.&O.E.: This information is from sources which we deem reliable, but must be verified by prospective Purchasers and may be subject to change or withdrawal.

Tara Hearn BA, MA, Real Estate Professional

P: 250.477.1100 C: 250.588.2852 E: tara@tarahearn.com

www.tarahearn.com 78

FOOD & DRINK

MAKE IT TAKE IT DIY Go Gifts fourmet r Holiday the s

by CINDA CHAVICH Photos by DON DENTON

79

Chef Sam Chalmers of North 48 with the ingredients to create his Batch 48 hot sauces.

Christmas Tea Party

Top Notch Parties offers fully catered CUSTOMIZED TEA PARTIES at a location of your choice An afternoon tea party is a perfect way to celebrate many occasions, such as holiday gatherings, staff appreciation parties, bridal/baby showers and lovely get-togethers with your special ladies.

BABAK’S ORIENTAL CARPETS

250.896.5544

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THINK OUTSIDE THE BOX

BABAKSORIENTALCARPETS.COM (250) 480-7114 80

D

IY remains one of the hottest trends of the year, and when it comes to holiday gifts, nothing beats that jar or bottle of something you’ve made from scratch.

Whether it’s a bottle of your own secret hot sauce, a jar of antipasto to pass at impromptu parties, a custommade BBQ rub or a bitter infusion for your favourite cocktail connoisseur, there’s a gourmet gift for every occasion.

Yes, you can always make a batch of cookies, peanut brittle or truffles for holiday gifts, but you can also get creative with these contemporary concoctions from the kitchen.

I talked to some of the city’s chefs and mixologists about how to make some tasty treats that you can give away to friends and family this holiday season.

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Hot stuff

Chef Sam Chalmers makes everything from scratch at his popular “modern diner,” North 48, from the house-made “Cheese Whiz” spread, to the ground chuck and bacon burgers, and the spicy andouille sausages for his creative corn dogs.

But Chalmers is also famous for the hot sauces he makes to serve with his braised duck wings and other diner dishes. So famous, in fact, there’s now a line of Batch 48 hot sauces for sale ($6 and $9), all made and bottled at the restaurant.

Sammy’s Red Hot is his Buffalo style hot sauce, made with Fresno and Thai chilies. The fruity and hot Mango Serrano and green Jalapeno Sriracha sauces take it up a notch on the Scoville scale, while the Habanero Orange and The Wrath sauces are the hottest of the bunch.

Chalmers pickles fresh hot chili peppers in a brine of vinegar,

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Some of the ingredients in Batch 48 hot sauces.

Use promo code BLISS or go to aprilpoint.com/spa/package

salt and sugar, and then purees it all together in a high powered blender with a little xanthan gum (it’s optional but acts as an emulsifier to thicken the sauce and keep it from separating).

Here’s his basic recipe:

Cosy Cosy Cosytoes. toes. toes.

SAM'S HOT SAUCE

PREP 15 MIN BRINE TIME 48 HRS MAKES 12 CUPS (3 L)

This makes a thin, spicy “tabasco-style” hot sauce. Feel free to substitute any fresh chilies — but choose either all green or all red/orange varieties for the cleanest, brightest colour.

4 cups (1 l) white vinegar 6 cups (1.5 l) water It’s only natural.

A rainbow of ½ cup It’s onlyoutside. natural.Floor-gripping A rainbow of(125 ml) sugar colours It’s onlycolours natural. outside.

A rainbowFloor-gripping of ½ cup (125 ml) kosher salt colours outside.

Floor-gripping leather underneath.

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A rainbow of 2 pounds (1 kg) chili peppers, washed, stems removed leather underneath.

Cosy leather underneath.

Cosy colours outside.

Floor-gripping It’s AArainbow of toes inside.

Nothing It’sonly onlynatural. natural. rainbow of ½ tsp (2 ml) xanthan gum per liter of sauce toes inside. Nothing

The Boot Red. in Red. Thein Boot in Red. $99.95The TheBoot Boot in Red. $99.95 $99.95 Also Available Purple. $99.95 Also Available Also Purple.

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Nothing 100%wool pure toeswarms inside.the Nothing bring to a boil. Place the clean chilies in a large, stainless steel 100% pure warms soles like wool warmsthe the soles like wool wool pot or glass container and pour the hot brine over top. Set aside 100% pure Glerups 100% pure Glerups Glerups Glerups wool for 48 hours in the refrigerator to pickle. Then purée the chilies wool from from from from Glerups Glerups Denmark.

Denmark. and brine in a blender until smooth. Strain the sauce and return Denmark. from from Denmark. to the blender, adding ½ tsp of xanthan gum per liter of sauce Denmark.

Denmark. (this will help keep the sauce from separating.) Blend sauce

Available in Slipper and Shoe Also Purple.

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637637 Fort St.St. Fort Victoria, BCBC Victoria, 637 Fort St. 637 St. 637Fort Fort St. St. 637 Fort Phone 250-383-4040 Phone 250-383-4040 Victoria, BC

Victoria, BC Victoria, BC BC Victoria, Phone 250-383-4040 Phone 250-383-4040 Phone 250-383-4040 Phone 250-383-4040

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again, then fill small clean jars or bottles and label.

DIY Cocktail Bitters

If people on your gift list love cocktails, they’ll be thrilled to receive a bottle of homemade bitters.

11/6/15 11/6/15 7:32 7:32AM AM

11/6/15 11/6/15 7:32 7:32AM AM

Creating orange bitters.

Orange bitters are integral to many classic cocktail recipes, as they add a subtle orange note to the bourbon-based Old Fashioned, rye whiskey Manhattan, or gin and vermouth Martini.

At Little Jumbo, bartender Nate Caudle creates his own Burnt Orange Bitters, made by infusing brandy and smoky Scotch whiskey with charred orange peel, fresh oranges and bitter gentian root.

Caudle, known for his classic cocktails, says it’s the homemade ingredients — from fresh-pressed juices and syrups (he makes his own cola concentrate with a long list of aromatics and botanicals) to custom bitters and cordials — that add the “wow” factor to mixed drinks.

Any cocktail based on brown spirits gets a lift from a splash of this dark, citrusy bitter, he says. While making bitters from scratch can be complex — he usually brews his tinctures separately — this is an easy way to create a unique bitter that will impress any cocktail lover.

NATE'S BURNT ORANGE BITTERS PREP 15 MIN INFUSION TIME 10-14 DAYS MAKES 2¼ CUPS (600mL)

Bartender Nate Caudle says this citrusy bitter is important when making an Old Fashioned or Manhattan. He recommends looking for botanicals like gentian root and dried orange peel from local herbalists like Self Heal Herbs, where you can also buy small 100- to 150-ml dashing bottles. the zest of 4 oranges, removed in large strips with a vegetable peeler 4 orange slices, bruléed with 4 Tbsp (1/4 cup) demerara sugar 2 cups (500 ml) Marquis de Villard VSOP Brandy (or other brandy)

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½ cup (125 ml) smoky Scotch whiskey (McClellands’ Islay, Talisker, Laphroig, etc.)

1/4 cup (50 ml) dried orange peel 6 star anise heavy pinch of whole cloves 8-10 whole allspice berries 1/2 vanilla bean 1 Tbsp (15 ml) gentian root honey or agave syrup to taste (optional) Toast the orange zest over a gas flame or with a brulée torch until lightly charred. Top the orange slices with demerara sugar and brulée with the torch (or under the broiler) until bubbly and browned.

Place the zest and bruléed orange slices in a clean 1-L Mason jar. Pour in the brandy and whiskey, and then add the dry orange peel, star anise, cloves, allspice, vanilla and gentian root to the jar.

Seal the jar with a lid and let the mixture sit in a cool, dry place for at least 10 days (or for several weeks) for flavours to infuse.

Strain bitters through a coffee filter for clarity. Sweeten with a little honey or agave syrup if desired. Bottle bitters in six small 100-ml dashing bottles and use a few drops in classic cocktails.

Jewels in a jar

You’ll find chefs David Mincey and Paige Robinson in their Circle Canning kitchen throughout the harvest season, putting local fruits and vegetables up in delicious jams, salsas, pickles and sauces.

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You’ll also find them at several farm markets or teaching canning classes, and master canner Mincey says he’s always happy to share recipes and basic advice about preserving food in jars.

But it’s fun to get creative when making preserves for holiday gifts, he says.

“People like to bake, so I like to give a fruit tart filling — maybe a cranberry pecan jam that they can just spoon into prebaked tart shells or fold into a puff pastry turnover,” he says. “Make these fruit fillings exactly the way you’d make jam, then include a recipe with your gift.”

If you’re veering away from standard canning recipes, it’s always best to get a sample of your preserves tested at a local lab to insure the pH is below 4.6. Mincey says sugar and vinegar will safely preserve fruits and vegetables, though jars should be sealed and properly processed for 10 minutes in a boiling water bath to make them shelf stable at room temperature.

Always the chef, Mincey is happy to riff away on what to put in a jar — quince, vanilla and brandy conserve to brush over roast pork or a leek, apple and hazelnut conserve to combine with breadcrumbs for instant holiday stuffing. For martini lovers, make your own spiced olives with extras like sundried tomatoes and pickled onions, chilies and balsamic vinegar, or stuffed with blue cheese and roasted garlic, he says.

Any pickled local vegetable makes a colourful condiment. Here’s how:

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CIRCLE CANNING JARDINAIRE PREP 30 MIN COOK TIME 10 MINS PICKLING TIME 3 DAYS-2 WEEKS MAKES 5 CUPS BRINE Use this basic brine to pickle any vegetable (or combination of veggies) — try peeled carrots, green beans, cucumbers, asparagus, zucchini, peppers, peeled baby onions, even winter squash.

Fresh local vegetables for pickling (washed and peeled if necessary) Pickling spice (buy a commercial mix or make your own combo of mustard seed, coriander, allspice, ginger, cinnamon, cloves, peppercorns, bay leaf and celery seed) 4 cups (1L) white vinegar 1 cup (250 ml) water 1 Tbsp (15 ml) kosher salt 1 Tbsp (15 ml) chili paste (like sambal oelek) Wash vegetables (leave whole or chop).

In a clean canning jar, place a pinch of pickling spice, a whole dried chili (for spicier pickles), a bay leaf and/or garlic clove.

Then pack the vegetables into the jar as tight as possible (upright for carrot sticks, beans or asparagus, other vegetables may be chopped in bite-sized chunks or even minced for relish).

Bring the brine ingredients to a boil and pour over the vegetables in the jars. Let stand 10 minutes, and then pack in

Meat rub from David Mincey and Paige Robinson's Circle Canning.

more vegetables. Make sure everything is covered with brine and there is a little head space in the jar.

Seal the jars with two-part metal lids and refrigerate (for a fridge pickle) or, for gift giving, process the jars so they are

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stable at room temperature. Place jars in a single layer in a water bath canner, cover with boiling water and boil for 10 minutes.

Set jars on a folded dishtowel on the counter to cool.

In the fridge, pickles take about two weeks to fully develop flavour. If you can leave them in a water bath, the heat speeds this process up and they are ready in about three days, Mincey says. You can easily multiply the recipe to make more brine.

Dry rubs and baking mixes

The easiest thing to put in a jar for gift giving is something dry that needs no special preservation.

Think about spice mixtures for seasoning fish, barbecue rubs, or even baking mixes.

Anyone will thank you for a jar filled with the dry ingredients for your famous cranberry loaf or breakfast scones on Christmas morning. Just package it all in a pretty jar with instructions on what other ingredients (i.e. eggs or milk) need to be stirred into the batter before baking.

Artisan chocolate expert David Mincey makes a Chocolate Dry Rub with cocoa powder, juniper berries and paprika (all blitzed in a spice grinder) to rub on pork or chicken, and to crust strip loins or elk steaks for the grill.

Chef Chalmers is also famed for his BBQ rub (and sells it under the Batch 48 label). Or just try making a flavored salt with Vancouver Island Salt Co. sea salt and your favourite herbs and spices (think wasabi/nori salt or sweet maple sugar sea salt with cracked pepper).

Barbecue rubs classically include salt, sugar and spices — as long as there’s salt and sugar, your rub recipe can be tweaked to include any of your favourite herbs and flavourings. Here’s my go-to combination:

CINDA'S BASIC BBQ RUB PREP TIME 10 MINS MAKES ABOUT 1½ CUPS RUB

I use this rub for almost anything that goes on the grill, from pulled pork and ribs to BBQ chicken. Slather the meat with ballpark mustard, then pat on a heavy coating of this rub, and slow-smoke over charcoal (or in the oven) at 200-250˚F for several hours.

1 Tbsp (15 ml) salt ¼ cup (60 ml) white sugar 2 Tbsp (25 ml) each: brown sugar, ground cumin, ground ginger, chili powder, black pepper, garlic powder ¼ cup (50 ml) sweet Hungarian paprika 1 Tbsp (15 ml) dry mustard Combine ingredients well and store in a jar.

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s the holiday season flickered on the horizon, I thought, “Let’s have a party! And not just any old party — a real shindig.”

My husband and I have thrown parties before, and it doesn’t seem too complicated: invite guests, throw nibblies on the table, clean the bathrooms … but I wondered how difficult it might be to plan a real five star event.

So I decided to do a little research — create and plan a theoretical event, make a shopping list and even hit a store or two to find the necessary items.

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“A Child’s Gift” a group show November 2 thru December 31

Shopping happens to rank at the bottom of my list of favourite activities. However, I did happen upon a spread from The Shops at Matticks Farm in Boulevard’s holiday edition last year that said, “If you want shopping to be fabulous, visit our 15 vibrant and diverse mix of shops.” I’ve never considered putting “fabulous” and “shopping” in the same sentence, so I decided that’s where I’d test out the shopping part of my plan.

“Helpful” hints for the perfect party

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The internet offered lots of party planning advice — a dizzying 50 million hits to my “plan a Christmas party” search. These included helpful hints such as “18 (eighteen!) steps to planning the perfect Christmas party” and the Houseworks Holiday Planner (HHP), a week-by-week plan that promised to “break down de-cluttering, cleaning and Christmas organizing chores into small, weekly bites.” It offered a collection of checklists to help record and organize each set of home cleanup and holiday prep assignments, beginning on August 30 (August 30!).

I knew from experience that frenzied, curse-muttering cleaning for my party would start 12 hours prior to the door opening … so I quickly deleted the HHP. Scrolling down, I found the Stress Free Holiday Party Plan by writer Nicole Sforza. I liked the sound of that. I decided to consider each of Sforza’s steps (found at www.realsimple. com), make a shopping list, and then see how truly stress-free and simple it might be to plan a topnotch party.

• Step One: The Menu. The gas stove would have to freeze over before I actually prepared food for a party — my man’s place is in the kitchen — but I clicked the link to check out the menu. Once there, I discarded all five items because my guests don’t eat gluten (crab and chive puffs), dairy (hot ricotta dip), meat (maple-glazed ham) or processed sugar (mini gingerbread cupcakes). So much for step one.

• Step Two: The Cocktails. Here, the opposite problem occurred. They all sounded so good! Is it wrong to have six punches? I would need to buy gin, tequila, vodka, bourbon, cider, red wine and brandy. Plus wine for non-punch drinkers, plus beer for non-punch and non-wine drinkers.

Plus sodas for the non-drinking drinkers. I’d need to take the truck.

• Step Three: Manage the Mood. Turn off overhead lights and use “amber votive holders” (i.e. place candleholders on the shopping list). For music, mix “traditional holiday songs with favourite party tunes in a ratio of three to 10” (i.e. set aside a full day to make the holiday party mix; better yet, start on August 30).

• Step Four: Feng-Shui Your Place. Seriously?

No. • Step FIVE: Work Behind the Scenes Magic.

This includes renting a coatrack (!), preparing to soak dishes during the event and “clearing the air.” I believe this is literal, meaning open windows, and not metaphorical as in immediately accosting each guest with any outstanding issues.

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• Step Six: Wind it Down. A favourite for introverts like myself, this step suggests subtly signaling the party’s over by lowering the music and blowing out candles. (Apparently, turning off the lights and getting into pjs wouldn’t be considered “subtle.”)

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Planning the cocktails: step two of the perfect party.

• Step Seven: Create a Holiday Party Timeline. I knew it! Simple isn’t always simple. The link here offers a 10-step timeline that starts two weeks prior to the event — at which time the coatrack must be reserved — and runs up to five minutes prior when one must pop the crab and chive puffs into the oven.

• Step Eight: Don’t Let This Happen to You! This step provides a guide to holiday-party horror stories from the merely alarming — someone has spilled chutney on the sofa! — to the downright chilling — one of your guests is an axe murderer … wait, no, that’s not it. Party horror situations to avoid include a clogged sink (could lead to your house “reeking” of eggs), a fondue explosion (which actually sounds kind of fun), an overflowing toilet and a falling Christmas tree.

Making a list and checking it twice

Okay, onto the shopping at The Shops at Matticks Farm.

Bruce tagged along, since — polar opposite to me — shopping ranks at the top of his list of favourite activities.

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stand. It was a popular destination in the late 1950s and early 1960s.

Today it features a rolling golf course, several eateries, a spa, art gallery, health centre, mini golf course, make-your-own pottery studio, hair salon and a dozen or so shops.

Places like A Stable Way of Life, Country Gift Shoppe and Toying Around offer unique Cipes Rose at VQA Wine Shop — gift ideas, and sure a dry, sparkling wine that’s enough, in the process festive and current. of shopping for party items, I became highly distracted by a stunning leather jacket at Sunday’s Snowflakes.

While the party shopping trip started out as theoretic — with Bruce ducking into The Red Barn Market to assess local produce and other menu ingredients — I could soon tell my husband was itching for the real thing. And by the time we landed at VQA Wine Shop, I knew we were about to bring out the debit card.

In the wine store, John Pla helped us narrow down our choice of party wine from many to one, recommending Cipes Rose, a dry, sparkling wine from Summerhill Winery.

He said, “It’s festive, current and one of those ‘wow’ wines in BC.” (But I’d still need to visit a liquor store with the truck to make all those punches.)

We found flowers next door at Art Knapp Plantland, choosing red and white alstroemeria, and picked up dark green beeswax candles at The Ladybug Boutique, which also had those “manage the mood” amber votive holders.

However, we didn’t find a coatrack to rent.

Our day finished with lunch at Bill Matticks Restaurant, and we prudently resisted any further activities — Bruce didn’t play a round of golf and I didn’t go to Pure Day Spa. But we did start developing a guest list.

Happily, the party planning and shopping turned out to be fairly simple and stress-free — even if we didn’t start cleaning on August 30.

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“Once common on this continent, the number of monarchs has dropped by up to 90 per cent in the last two decades.�

FLIGHTS OF FANCY Monarch butterflies in Mexico

by Carolyn Heiman photos by TED MOYES

Riding horseback to the monarch sites at the Monarch Butterfly Biosphere Reserve in Mexico.

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U

npacking suitcases is typically the first order of the day following a vacation. But a return from central Mexico had me in front of a garden shop’s seed rack.

Here, I searched for milkweed seeds after an awe-inspiring visit to the one of the few over wintering places for monarch butterflies — famous for their remarkable travels of up to 3,000 miles between their northern and southern homes.

Yet distance is the least of their challenges. They are extremely finicky eaters and milkweed is the only plant eaten by caterpillar-stage monarchs. Global populations of the striking orange butterflies are in decline, mostly because the plant, often considered a weed, is being irradiated in North America.

Once common on this continent (although not so on Vancouver Island), the number of monarchs has dropped by up to 90 per cent in the last two decades from about one billion to an all-time low of 35 million last winter. Dire warnings such as this suggest the species is in jeopardy.

Help for the butterflies

Having witnessed the top branches of oyamel conifers completely hidden by monarch masses, and knowing the species is in jeopardy, I wanted to take personal action — hence the search for milkweed seeds. However, I subsequently learned from James Miskelly, a research associate with the Royal British Columbia Museum, that my seed shopping was misguided and would not likely result in an increase of monarchs here. As

Miskelly pointed out, milkweed isn’t native to the coast, and he’s against introducing non-native species that can have unintended consequences for the environment.

Moreover, monarchs are rare visitors to the Victoria area and those that do appear “are wildly off course.”

On the other hand, for those who live in the interior — say Kelowna or Kamloops — Miskelly says planting milkweed is a great idea. Furthermore, he’s all in favour of local gardeners learning to create welcoming environments for butterflies native to the coastal area, like the showy swallowtail sometimes mistakenly called a monarch. (Monarchs are orange and black; swallowtails, yellow and black.) Planting native plants — and not being too tidy with your gardening habits — can benefit butterflies, notes Miskelly, adding that eggs and chrysalides sometimes get thrown away during garden cleanups.

Talking to Miskelly set me straight on the odds of attracting monarchs to my Victoria backyard and heightened my appreciation for the experience I had in Mexico — a trip that arose from a spur-of-the-moment travel decision sparked by seeing advertisements about tours to the Mariposa Monarca Biosphere Reserve.

A rare opportunity

At the time, there were compelling reasons not to go. It was an 11-hour round trip during our short getaway to San Miguel de Allende. A rejuvenating holiday can easily deteriorate into an exhausting one if too much time is spent in vehicles, and we already had to drive four hours from the Lyon airport to San

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Miguel de Allende. Also, it wasn’t inexpensive, and several things would have to be struck off our “to-see” list in San Miguel if we devoted a day to the tour. On the other hand, we were near one of the rare places monarchs migrate for the winter, and at the optimum time to see them (roughly December through to March). Who knew when we might be back to the area, let alone at the perfect time?

So the next day we arose to an alarm for a very early departure to the Sierra Madre Mountains.

We weren’t disappointed. The ride through the Mexican countryside was interesting and the time passed easily, listening to the travel stories of others in our small group. Our driver and guide spoke great English and packed us all a tasty box lunch.

Once at the reserve, only one large tour bus and a few other vehicles had already arrived so we missed the crush of crowds.

(Although we did subsequently learn that the butterflies are more active later in the afternoon when it’s warm.)

The marshalling area for tourists has good informational signage plus a few services such as gift shops and kiosk-style eateries. Our boxed lunch sufficed for much of the day, but later our driver introduced us to a husband-and-wife team running a small eatery with an open kitchen in the marshalling area. This turned out to serve up some of our vacation’s best country-style Mexican food, featuring a mushroom soup made from wild mushrooms foraged that morning. The woman, who spoke little English, even indulged me with a lesson in making tortillas over a wood-burning stove. (Much harder than one thinks!)

We also purchased a luscious bucket of some of the best-tasting strawberries I’ve ever experienced.

These eateries and gift stores sprung up after the Mexican government created the Monarch Butterfly Biosphere Reserve and outlawed logging in the area. As compensation to the many poor farmers who had relied on the forest and its products for their livelihood, the government gave options to run small tourist services at the site. In addition to gift stores and food stalls, some have licenses for a limited number of horse rides

to the monarch sites, which are about a 30-minute walk away.

To hoof or hike?

Knowing that the locals made sacrifices to preserve these special places made it a simple choice to support their new endeavours, and given the option of hiking or riding, I chose to take a horse up the mountain.

Meanwhile, my husband walked the distance, something that permitted time to take photos at a number of beautiful mountain lookouts. Either travel option, it’s recommended to take appropriate footwear, especially closed-toed shoes.

As we wove along a wellmarked trail, we kept scanning the skies, unsuccessfully trying to spot butterflies. Finally, about 20 minutes later, a butterfly was spotted gently fluttering against a blue sky. Excitement abounded — but little did we know what was ahead.

By the time we came to a small clearing, we’d seen about a

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“Finally, about 20 minutes later, a butterfly was spotted gently fluttering against a blue sky. Excitement abounded — but little did we know what was ahead.”

dozen butterflies. As we dismounted before a cordoned-off area, it seemed for a moment we were going to be disappointed. Nothing was in the air. We looked high up at the conifers. Their tops were a strange orange rust colour and for a moment I thought pine beetle infested the trees.

Then a gentle wind moved a cloud along, opening the forest to the sun’s warm rays.

The orange mats came alive; thousands and thousands of magnificent monarchs, which had been clustered together to stay warm, unfurled their wings and rose up into the warm air. They lit on nearby bushes, fluttered before our eyes, and landed on brightly coloured T-shirts and hats. An awestruck silence settled over all of us. Just the click of camera shutters told that we were there.

When to go

Monarch clusters can be found in oyamel forests from late January through to March.

While tour companies know the areas where they can be found, there are no guarantees.

Our guide said he can go one day and find thousands and thousands. The next day they are gone.

More Details

Monarch butterfly tours are popular in southern Mexico and there are a number of operators to choose from. From San Miguel de Allende, small group tours, offered regularly through La Biblioteca, cost $110 USD.

Flights of fancy

The 2012 Canadian IMAX documentary Flight of the Butterflies takes viewers on the nearly 40-year journey of Canadian zoologist Dr. Fred Urquhart, who is credited with finding the overwintering sites and discovering that it takes multiple generations for monarchs to reach Canadian breeding grounds, 4,000 kilometres away from the handful of overwintering forests in Mexico.

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Experience Christmas in

Remember when holiday shopping brought a smile to your face and a bounce to your step? If so, check out Sidney as your “go-to” holiday hub. The annual Sidney merchants Open House will be held Friday, December 4th, 5pm to 8pm.

There will be FREE horse-drawn carriage rides (4pm to 8pm), traditional storybook Christmas carolers, beautiful shop windows, and just about the best customer service you could imagine. Without doubt, it will be a night to remember! Be sure to pick up a Passport to Christmas, collect 12 stamps from various merchants and be entered to win 1 of 3 grand prizes! For the little ones there will be a gingerbread house scavenger hunt with prizes from local stores.

All season long in Sidney you can enjoy a full line up of festive activities including, horse drawn carriage tours on Saturday and Sunday’s in December from noon to 4pm, as well as traditional carol singers each weekend from 1pm4pm. Enjoy a festive ride through downtown Sidney and take in the charming, holiday ambiance. Be sure to pick up a hot beverage and something to eat from one of Sidney’s lively coffee shops or restaurants before you depart.

Add to the holiday magic by attending one of the many holiday concerts at the Mary Winspear Centre or the Peninsula Players traditional pantomime, Jack and the Beanstalk. Plan to visit one or more of several Christmas craft shows and the popular Teddy Bear exhibit at the Sidney Historical Museum. The Mary Winspear Centre will once again feature the Festival of Trees display and a LEGO Christmas village display. The Community Arts Council showcases the Artisans Gift Gallery at Tulista Park

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TRAVEL NEAR

WINTER Mini spa vacations on Vancouver Island

by SUSAN LUNDY

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A wonderful Christmas tradition.

Perfect for the entire family!

Dec. 27, 28 & 29 2:00 pm

Featuring the Nutcracker score performed by the Victoria Symphony Royal Theatre - tickets on sale now www.balletvictoria.ca • 250-386-6121

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The Grotto Mineral pool is just one of several delights at Tigh Na Mara's Grotto Spa — one of several must-do destinations for a Vancouver island spa getaway trip.

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tudies that suggest people derive more happiness from planning a holiday than actually taking one obviously aren’t talking about spa vacations.

What better way in the cool winter months or nippy weeks of early spring to warm up the core than by sinking into scented steam or relaxing under the strong fingers of a massage therapist? Vancouver Island plays host to numerous award-winning spas, many with creative touches you can’t find anywhere else.

Here’s a look at a few of them:

Grotto-fication at Tigh Na Mara

Tucked amid a beachside forest in Parksville, Tigh Na Mara offers a mix of ocean view rooms, family-oriented cabins and upscale suites. And for anyone on a spa tour, it dishes up something entirely unique.

When my husband and I arrived early last March, I was battling the lingering cough of a cold that had flattened me for close to six weeks. So I was instantly thrilled to discover a Jacuzzi tub and fireplace in our spacious one-bedroom Spa Bungalow. (Tub, bottle of bubbly, crackling fireplace … my cold felt better already.)

Ranked among the top 100 spas in North America by Spas of America, Tigh Na Mara’s Grotto Spa offers facials, body wraps, body glows, massages, manicures and pedicures, many with a focus on West Coast natural ingredients.

Bruce isn’t a big spa fan, but he loves floating and splashing about in water, so we met at the Grotto Mineral Pool to enjoy the pool, whirlpool and “invigorating” cool-splash waterfall (which I avoided like a rainy downpour, but Bruce enjoyed immensely).

Designed to emulate a natural stone grotto, the 2,500-square-foot warm water pool features natural minerals and trace elements said to detoxify the body. There’s also a poolside lounging area and outdoor patio for summer visitors.

In addition to its expansive treatment menu, the spa offers several packages, including ones created for couples’ or girls’ getaways, and others for bridal parties and expectant mothers. I happily submitted to an aromatherapy relaxation massage, the comforting oils and thick scents soothing my cough-trashed body.

Tigh Na Mara’s Grotto Spa offers facials, body wraps, body glows, massages, manicures and pedicures, many with a focus on West Coast natural ingredients.

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Section of the Pacific Mist Hydropath at Kingfisher Spa and Resort.

But the really unique experience at Grotto Spa was yet to come as — wrapped in robes and donning little slipper sandals — Bruce and I met in an upstairs relaxation lounge (comfy, oversized chairs, platters of complimentary fruit, tea and water) to await our sitting at the Treetop Tapas & Grill, available only for robed spa guests.

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select the endless tapa menu, which dishes up a dizzying array of gourmet tasting plates. It was a remarkable feast and there was so much food, we couldn’t even get to the final few dishes of the first round. The menu includes a divine selection of meats and seafood, spa-inspired antioxidant cuisine and a range of desserts.

Between the spa, the pool and the tapas tasting — it is a truly brilliant place for a spa getaway.

Something Comfortable

Steam, jets and warm water at Kingfisher

“I could get used to this,” I thought as I soaked in my own personal tidal bath at Kingfisher Spa and Resort, located just a few minutes south of Courtenay on Vancouver Island.

The day’s stress had already ebbed away as I moved through the resort’s unique Pacific Mist Hydropath — a shorelinemimicking pathway of water and steam hydrotherapy stations.

By this time, my shoulder and neck muscles had been loosened

by Swiss water jets and tumbling waterfalls. I’d basked in eucalyptus steam; been heated up and cooled down. I’d sweated, floated and scrubbed myself in sea salt.

And now I was encased in a warm-water, womb-like tidal bath carved out of rock. Everything took place amid a seascape of sculpted stone, lush flora and beach wood. Life was good.

Set on the ocean’s edge on the eastern shore of Vancouver Island, Kingfisher Spa and Resort is dubbed a “mix of casual luxury.” Not surprisingly, nature is a big theme at the resort and recent re-branding has embraced the wild, west coast backdrop.

In addition to the Pacific Mist Hydropath — which the resort claims is unique in North America — the spa has over 20 treatment rooms and a diverse spa menu.

Accommodation ranges from the original ocean view and garden view rooms on the upper level of the property to the newer, more luxurious beachfront suites, located on the lower level. All of the rooms feature a deck or patio, and a room reservation allows access to the heated outdoor pool, sauna, hottub, steam cave and fitness room.

Great for a warm winter escape.

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A touch of wild at April Point

What a moment.

There I sat, lulled by the sun in a deckchair perched on the edge of Discovery Passage. My freshly clipped, buffed and painted nails glinted purple in the sun as they dried on the

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"Signature therapies harness the "power of the sea."

Seaside mineral baths at Oak bay Beach Hotel's Boathouse Spa promise to warm up the core, even in the middle of winter.

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armrests, and my feet were set in a pail of warm water. My caves tingled from a quick but comforting massage.

Suddenly, as I looked out across the water, I heard a telltale sound, and watched as a massive grey whale broke the water’s surface. Fellow guests at April Point Resort and Spa rushed to the edge of the water and we all watched the whale make its way down the passage.

I doubt there’s many places in the world where whales are part of the mani /pedi package — and it capped off a truly delightful experience.

I arrived at April Point via a free, 10-minute water taxi shuttle from Painter’s Lodge, near Campbell River — a three-hour drive from Victoria — and checked into a comfortable, one-bedroom “deluxe oceanview spa room.”

From here, I could feast my eyes upon the ocean as well as the aesthetically delightful spa, which is housed in a lovely, Japaneseinspired building, set in the centre of a tranquil pool. Crossing the bridge to the spa, one immediately feels tension dissipate.

I chose the elemental manicure and pedicure on the deck, which includes a leg and arm massage, but the spa offers a multitude of indoor treatments as well, including such gems as a rosemary-mint awakening body wrap and fusion plant pure-fume steam shower, plus packages and options for gentlemen as well.

Unfortunately, this isn’t a winter spa getaway as April Point shuts down for the cooler months. But it reopens on May 13, so at least one can book it in the winter and start dreaming.

Ocean immersion at Boathouse Spa

The ocean plays such a role in the experience of staying at Victoria’s Oak Bay Beach Hotel, it’s not surprising that it’s a big part of the Boathouse Spa experience too.

Here’s a spa vacation Victorians can enjoy without even leaving the city.

I arrived early to take in the seaside mineral baths and eucalyptus steam sauna, quickly realizing that the pools are an experience in themselves. Built right on the rocks, with views to the ocean and distant mountains, they seamlessly merge into the natural environment. Also, they’re soothing, relaxing and invigorating all at the same time. And adding to their charm is the ability to order light fare and drinks from the Boathouse Spa bar and food menu to enjoy right on the licensed deck.

I ordered sushi and Prosecco — a brilliant way to start a treatment.

Open daily, the spa also includes manicure and pedicure rooms, three individual massage rooms and one couples massage room. It’s open to visitors as well as hotel guests and has a menu that is as extensive as any I’ve seen, ranging from several styles of massage to skin care treatments such as an organic seaweed facial, and add-ons that include “sea-scalp therapy” and a “maple luscious lip” treatment.

Signature therapies harness the “power of the sea” (incorporating seaweed and glacial clay among other lotions and potions) and “balance from the land,” using such delights such as lavender olive oil and lavender mango body butter. There are also exfoliation and epilation menus and choice of body wraps.

Guests can order in-suite treatments — Pacific seaweed, acai mineral or lavender bubbles — in their bathtubs “to relieve aching muscles and sore joints, while promoting circulation and detoxification.”

After my soak in the outdoor mineral pools and venture into 109

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Old House Hotel and Spa is home to Oh Spa and set on the river in downtown Courtenay.

the succulent-smelling steam sauna, I was ushered into the separate building that houses the treatment rooms. Here, for 90 minutes, I succumbed to the joys of the “By the Sea” treatment, which incorporated various seaweed compounds and a vigorous sports-style massage.

After indulging in this treatment, described as “perfect for the negative effects of a busy lifestyle,” I left the spa ready to face the challenges of my life … at least after a good, long sleep.

Vichy heaven in courtenay

Oh Spa, indeed.

For my treatment at Oh Spa, which is tucked into a corner of Courtenay’s Old House Hotel and Spa, I decided to get out of my massage “box” and try something different.

Instead of succumbing to muscle-mushing fingertips, I relaxed, prone, under a warm, gentle shower of water, and submitted to pressure point massage in one of Oh Spa’s signature offerings — Vichy therapy. As an add-on, I was rubbed, brushed and polished with aromatic coconut “flavoured” cream that exfoliated, moisturized and the smoothed the skin via a sea salt body polish treatment.

In the Vichy therapy room, a steamy stream of water keeps you warm and moist as you lay on a massage table, and a soothing puddle forms underneath, creating a womb-like environment. The pressure point massage aims to stimulate 110

circulation and lymphatic flow, and the body polish salt helps draw out toxins.

But aside from all that — it feels heavenly.

Oh Spa has a number of unique features and a huge array of treatment options.

It took me forever to decide on the Vichy therapy, since the spa also offers four different types of facials (the “age corrective” was certainly tempting); pedicures and manicures that take place in massage chairs; massage that ranges from sport and relaxation to prenatal and RMT services. There are also hot stone treatments, reiki, reflexology, shiatsu, waxing and a hydrotherapy tub.

Because I made this a day trip, I didn’t have enough time to really enjoy all that the spa has to offer. On my next visit, I'll stay overnight at the hotel, which is conveniently located close to town and right alongside Courtenay’s scenic river walk.

And on this next visit, perhaps an anniversary celebration, I will book us one of the spa’s three couples’ packages — a decision I made after peeking into the couples’ treatment room.

This private space features a fireplace, comfy chairs in which to sample spa cuisine from the adjacent Locals Restaurant, a chromatherapy effervescent tub for two and side-by-side massage tables.

Oh Spa also offers a warm, outdoor pool and hot-tub area, overlooking the river, and several popular men’s treatments.

Sign me up for more.

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front row

Matthew Cluff and Andrea Bayne in Ballet Victoria's The Gift.

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PHOTO BY DEREK FORD

By robert moyes

THINKING OUTSIDE PANDORA’S BOX

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ever one to let tradition get in the way of creativity, Ballet Victoria artistic director Paul Destrooper took the music and some of the narrative from Tchaikovsky’s beloved Nutcracker and fused it with the Pandora myth … then shoehorned in lots of cheeky pop culture references. The result, The Gift, has itself become a bit of a tradition as it enters its fourth season with three performances at the Royal Theatre. The plot centres on a girl who opens a Christmas present she shouldn’t, thus releasing a dragon and other seemingly scary creatures into the world. “I play with the story every year, and bring in different characters,” explains Destrooper, who last December gave a cameo to superspy James Bond. This year, watch out for a herd of yellow “minions” inspired by the Despicable Me movies. Also featured are extensive computer projections and animations, many of them customized to backdrop the famed “character” dances in Act Two of Nutcracker. But despite all the wacky modernizations, this is still traditional ballet that is rigorously technical and danced en pointe. “And of course we have the Victoria Symphony because with live music there is more energy, it becomes a living, breathing partnership between the dancers and the music,” Destrooper adds. “And the show is very culturally and musically diverse — kids really relate to it.”

Performing December 27-29 at the Royal Theatre. For tickets, call 250-386-6121.

“But despite all the wacky modernizations, this is still traditional ballet that is rigorously technical and danced en pointe."

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ISLAND OF MAGIC REALISM

Vancouver Island of 40 years ago is the setting for Spit Delaney’s Island, the first book by renowned local author Jack Hodgins.

An award-winning collection of short stories notable for vivid language and use of magic realism, it began and ended with a tale featuring Spit Delaney, an endearing rascal who runs the Old Number One steam locomotive at a pulp mill near Parksville.

When the mill modernizes to diesel and Delaney is phased out of a job, he eventually loses everything. His efforts to rebuild himself form the heart of the rollicking theatrical version of Island, which has been adapted for the stage by celebrated Victoria playwright and poet Charles Tidler. “I was a draft resister who ended up on Vancouver Island in 1969, so I totally overlapped with the world of Spit Delaney,” says Tidler, who has no trouble identifying with the larger-than-life scallywag whose humorous antics overlay a poignant core. “He’s like a comic version of Job, but there’s a real man inside the comedy,” notes Tidler. “And, sure, this is lighter fare, but its quirky charm should suit the Christmas season.” After

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Folk-pop band Jon and Roy are actually a trio featuring, from left, Louis Sadava, Jon Middleton, and Roy Vizer.

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He apprehensively sent the finished script off to Hodgins, and was relieved when the author had trouble figuring out who had written which parts. “Jack was pretty pleased with it,” chuckles Tidler.

Playing at 1923 Fernwood Road from December 1-19. For tickets, see Theatre Inconnu.

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by Victoria’s popular folk-pop trio Jon and Roy. But unlike all the standard Christmas performances that crop up during the month, this won’t feature reindeer bells or a solemn rendition of Silent Night. “There’s not much happening in the way of regular gigs during December,” says band co-founder Jon Middleton.

“So our approach is to select four bands as opening acts, each performing 20-minute sets before we come on as the headliners.”

This year’s openers include Kandle and the Krooks and the jazzily horn-driven Nick La Riviere Band. “We like a bit more acoustic instrumentation because it sounds great in Alix Goolden Hall,” adds Middleton. “But really, it’s just a chance to give exposure to some bands that we really like.” Formed 12 years ago when guitarist Middleton met percussionist Roy Vizer at UVic, they released their first CD in 2005 — and watched the title track, “Sittin’ Back,” add lots of ear-catching bounce to a popular American TV ad for VW. That early triumph was followed by five more CDs, three appearances at Rifflandia, and regular gigs all across country — including a just-finished tour opening for Australia’s Xavier Rudd. There’s something addictive about the

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music of Jon and Roy — catchy hooks, smart lyrics, a poppy buzz undergirded by a touch of reggae. They only play their hometown once or twice a year, and as Jon notes happily, “We always sell out.” Get those tickets early!

Performing December 12 at Alix Goolden Hall, 907 Pandora. Tickets on sale at Ditch Records.

MERRY CHRISTMAS FROM MICHAEL PRAETORIUS

A decade ago when famed countertenor Matthew White lived in Toronto, he fell in love with a unique Christmas concert that recreated the joyous feeling of a 17th-century Christmas service featuring the music of German composer Michael Praetorius. “It’s now become a tradition in Toronto, one that’s quite as popular as The Messiah,” says White. Currently based in Vancouver, where he’s artistic director of Early Music Vancouver, White wanted to start his own version of the event, and got on the phone to some of the best early music performers living in the Pacific Northwest. He also reached out to Montreal’s La Rose des Vents, considered the finest Baroque “wind band” in North America. The result, A Praetorius Christmas Vespers, is going on a four-city tour that includes Victoria (thanks to the involvement of this city’s Early Music Society of the Islands).

Praetorius was one of the greatest German composers of the era that transitions between late Renaissance and early Baroque, and White is a huge fan. “The music is extremely varied and ranges between large, sonically splendid passages and more intimate moments. It also offers a thrilling variety of tonal colour — I love it,” declares White. And because the audience will be encouraged to sing a few choruses from well-known hymns, 115

PHOTO BY Marco Borggreve

Yannick Nézet-Séguin will conduct Anton Bruckner’s brilliant Symphony No. 4 “Romantic” as part of the Victoria Symphony's 75th anniversary celebration.

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expect the communal feeling of a real Christmas congregation.

“People can participate a bit, but also hear lots of majestic musicmaking by virtuosic players,” White adds. “And the Cathedral will be a great setting for this event.”

PLUGGING INTO A SUPERCONDUCTOR

A native of Montreal, Yannick Nézet-Séguin first conducted the Victoria Symphony in 2001 when he was just beginning his career. He was principal guest conductor for several years, prior to going on to become a globe-spanning success who records for prestigious labels such as Deutsche Grammophon, and has conducted both the Berlin and Vienna Philharmonics, and presided over NYC’s Metropolitan Opera. In short, NézetSéguin is now a superstar — which makes his surprise return here as part of the symphony’s 75th anniversary celebrations very exciting indeed for devotees of orchestral music. And few people are more delighted than Christi Meyers, a violinist who started with the VS at the same time as Nézet-Séguin. “Yannick was just beginning to get noticed, and he already had real charisma on the podium,” remembers Meyers. “There was a joy and warmth to his music-making. And he wasn’t just conducting — you always felt he was sharing in the music-making, that he was right in there communing with the musicians.” NézetSéguin will conduct Anton Bruckner’s brilliant Symphony No. 4 “Romantic,” a bold orchestral work that he loves and has recorded. “A conductor like Yannick can take what’s in the score and lift it off the page, intensify the colours, and shape the music,” notes Meyers. “It will be great to have him back.”

Performing January 9 at the Royal Theatre. For tickets, call 250-386-6121.

Coming up

Performing at Christ Church Cathedral on December 19.

For tickets, call 250-386-6121.

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LAUGHTER ON TAP

When Langham Court went looking for a director for Stepping Out — the award-winning comedy about tap-dancing students taking weekly lessons in a dingy church hall in 1980s London — Heather-Elayne Day was the obvious choice. A respected choreographer and director, she has done over a dozen productions for Langham (and other arts groups) over the decades. And adding to that impressive résumé, Day was cast as one of the dancers when Langham first mounted Out 25 years ago. “This is very much a comedy, but there are poignant moments that draw you into the characters,” explains Day. “The eight dancers are all kind of lonely, and you get to know them during their brief social interactions. It’s a bit like The Full Monty.” According to Day, Out is a classic crowd pleaser, further warmed up with nostalgic 1980s references and period music. The play spans a year, and even though the dancers gradually develop some dancing skills — and a spirit of camaraderie — they are nonetheless very nervous when they discover that their “graduation” involves a group performance at a charity gala. Day cast the play way back in June, choosing actors with no tapping skills who were prepared to take lessons for several months, thus experiencing the same journey as the characters they portray. “I want the audience to be rooting for these characters … and then cheering for them when they ultimately succeed,” adds Day.

Performing January 13 to 30 at Langham Court.

For tickets, call 250-384-2142.

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SECRETS & LIVES

LEADER OF THE PACK Victoria Symphony welcomes new CEO

By SUSAN LUNDY PHOTO BY DON DENTON

Victoria's Kathryn Laurin takes over as CEO of the Victoria Symphony next spring. She’s seen here in the beautiful lobby of the Oak Bay Beach Hotel.

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lthough Kathryn Laurin knew at some level that her life’s two passions were complimentary, she was fascinated to read an article that highlighted the characteristics shared by leaders and musical conductors.

“Both engage with people to meet goals or outcomes,” says Laurin, the recently retired president of Camosun College who takes over as CEO of the Victoria Symphony next spring.

Laurin majored in conducting as a graduate student at Indiana University, but has since spent most of her career in academic leadership roles. She was captivated by the Harvard Business Review article, which described common characteristics shared by the two occupations.

A conductor, Laurin points out, engages with musicians and guides them to a shared musical vision. A leader does the same thing, but with employees.

Ultimately, she says, “Effective conductors and leaders are catalysts of a sort and value those within their organizations.

They aim to build trust and respect, be strong communicators, demonstrate knowledge and expertise and, most importantly, inspire those around them to contribute to exceptional outcomes.”

Laurin — who replaces retiring symphony CEO Mitchell Krieger in May — is thrilled with her new role, a position she believes uses all the skill sets she’s developed over the years.

“I view this next step as building on everything I’ve done in my career — academic, administrative and musical. This brings it all together in new and exciting ways.”

The symphony is equally delighted: “After an international search, we struck gold right here in Victoria,” said Harry Swain, president of the symphony board in a press release “Kathryn Laurin is superbly qualified to make the VS an even more central part of Victoria’s cultural life.”

While music has taken a backseat in Laurin’s world over the past few years, it has been a big part of her life. Growing up in Montreal, she started piano lessons at age six and performed duets with her father. As a teenager, she played in rock bands, and then learned to conduct at a music camp. Eventually, she became the young conductor of a church choir in Montreal.

“Music was pretty much an integral part of my childhood and adolescence and it was no surprise to anyone when I pursued a career in music.”

After obtaining a Bachelor of Music from McGill University, she completed her graduate degree in conducting at Indiana University and then studied conducting further in Germany.

“I think the most powerful lesson I have learned about leadership is that people are your strongest and most valuable asset.”

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driver based on their learning style and abilities.”

Whether excited to drive, afraid to learn or have a license but lost your confidence, Ingrid will help you become a successful driver.

Ingrid Weighton’s Driver Education Ltd. 250.388.6638 | drivingcoach.ca 119

A Christmas Carol

BY

Charles Dickens ADAPTED BY MICHAEL SHAMATA

“A superb production... sublime” GLOBE & MAIL

2015

TIC K ETS ON SALE NOW

250 385 6815 / belfr y.bc.ca 1291 Gladstone at Fernwood, Victoria

250.589.5810 AMY@AMYMCGEACHY.COM WWW.AMYMCGEACHY.COM

120

She started her academic career at the University of Guelph, and then moved to the University of Regina, where she worked as a professor of music and headed up a graduate program in conducting. She also worked as a freelance musician, and then served as the dean of fine arts and subsequently vice president of administration. She later moved to Mount Saint Vincent University in Halifax, working as president and vice chancellor, and finally — seven years ago — on to Camosun College in Victoria.

“I love Victoria and I love this community. After living in Saskatchewan for 21 years, most compelling is the climate and geography here. But I’ve also done some travelling and I have to think this is one of the most beautiful places in the world.”

Because music has taken a backseat amid her busy academic career, she says, “I am really looking forward to my work with the Victoria Symphony where I will be surrounded by exceptional musicians and immersed in high calibre music.”

As a frequent patron of the opera and the symphony in Victoria, she's impressed with the “incredibly high level of music making” here.

“The programming and concerts are first class and the orchestra is truly one of the cultural jewels of BC and of the country,” she says.

“I also see a board that is passionately committed to the success of the orchestra and a community that places high value on arts and culture.

That’s all very encouraging because it is a struggle for arts organizations to remain viable, sustainable and relevant in today’s competing environment with the incredible array of entertainment choices available.”

Laurin says her early days will be spent learning about the day-to-day operations of the organization and quickly identifying challenges and opportunities.

“I will do a lot of listening and asking questions. Building relationships with staff, the musicians, members of the board and donors/supporters will be key as well as continuing to build support within the community and with key influencers.”

Speaking from her and her husband’s vacation condo in Arizona, Laurin said she’d brought a little work with her down south, but mostly she planned to spend her leisure time golfing, hiking and socializing with friends.

“I am an avid golfer,” she says, laughing. “But my enthusiasm does exceed my ability.”

She also loves to cook, travel and play the piano. And she’s also a “car buff.”

“Life has taught me to seize each and every day, and live it to the fullest, to rise above challenges and to continue to passionately pursue your aspirations.”

Laurin will be doing all three as she takes on her new leadership role with the symphony this spring.

“I think the most powerful lesson I have learned about leadership is that people are your strongest and most valuable asset.”

“I will do a lot of listening and asking questions."

T o b a c c o n i s t

1116 GOVERNMENT STREET 250.382.4811 • OLDMORRIS.COM 121

OUTTAKE

Behind the scenes of fashion feature Dressed to Kill, Rudi Koniczek says, “What surprised me about being a part of a fashion shoot was the amount of time it takes and the amount of work that goes into it. I had no idea! I suppose that — just like restoring cars — doing a photo shoot well takes time: think twice and do once. Everyone was freezing cold, but the crew was so professional, they really captured the essence of excellence.” Rudi and his team of passionate, dedicated craftsmen are known worldwide for their specialty in restoring classic cars, particularly the Mercedes-Benz 300SL. 122

Rudi sits in a 1956 MercedesBenz 300SL Gullwing, completely restored

by Rudi & Company.

INTRODUCING VOLVO V60V60 CROSS COUNTRY INTRODUCINGTHETHE VOLVO CROSS COUNTRY GO EXPLORE INTRODUCING GO EXPLORE THE VOLVO V60 CROSS COUNTRY GO EXPLORE Geared for Adventure: An engaged driving experience, made for lovers of design, nature and adventure.

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2735 Douglas Victoria, BC Victoria, BC 2735 Street, Douglas Street, www.jpvolvoofvictoria.com | 250-382-6122

Dealer #10900. MSRP price of $44,100 does not include taxes and administration fees of $395. Predelivery inspection and freight charges are included. Offers are subject to change or cancellation without notice. Limited time offer provided through Volvo Cars of Canada, on approved credit only. Please see Jim Pattison Volvo of Victoria for complete details.

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Dealer #10900. MSRP price of $44,100 does not include taxes and administration fees of $395. Predelivery inspection and freight charges are included. Offers are subject to change or cancellation without notice. Limited time offer provided through Volvo Cars of Canada, on approved credit only. Please see Jim Pattison Volvo of Victoria for complete details.

Dealer #10900. MSRP price of $44,100 does not include taxes and administration fees of $395. Predelivery inspection and freight charges are included. Offers are subject to change or cancellation without notice. Limited time offer p Volvo Cars of Canada, on approved credit only. Please see Jim Pattison Volvo of Victoria for complete details.

PhotograPhed at craigdarroch castle BY garY McKiNstrY

Lexus Rx350: cReatuRe comfoRts and extRa safety featuRes Robert Rideout and his wife looked at a lot of options in their hunt for a new vehicle, but once they got behind the wheel of their 2015 Lexus RX350, they both knew their search was over.

“Once we test drove it, it was game, set, match,” says Rideout. “It’s just such a comfortable vehicle.”

Loaded with luxuriant standards like individually controlled air conditioning, a heads up display, and programmable settings for the front seats and steering wheel, the RX350 is a fully customizable ride designed to be a heavenly experience for both driver and passenger.

For their first Lexus, the couple opted for the additional Technology Package, adding in a few extra safety features and creature comforts.

“It was just a few more bells and whistles,” says Rideout.

“We’re thinking about starting a family soon, and that’s why we wanted the SUV crossover,” he adds.

“And with the added safety features, it was just a bit more appealing.”

Rideout, a recently graduated anesthesiologist on a year-long locum in Victoria, says their experience at the Jim Pattison Lexus dealership went far above and beyond.

“It was a combination of Derek [Sewagudde-Peden] and Marcel [Fisher] that helped us out,” he says. “Derek even gave us his own personal car to sample. It was pretty impressive.”

Six weeks in, the excitement of the purchase hasn’t worn off, and the RX350 is exceeding all their expectations.

“We’re very happy with it,” says Rideout.

2015 Lexus Rx350 nicely equipped from $62,670

Includes Freight, Delivery and Pre-Delivery Inspection.

the Pursuit of PerfectioN

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