2011-11_skytalk

Page 1

NOVEMBER 2011

skytalkonline.com

It’s farewell to YVR After 80 Days

community:

Halloween festivities at YVR page

4

airport:

Ground Run-up Enclosure page rises

5

airshows:

Eighty days have quickly come and gone for Jaeger Mah, the Port Alberni native who has called YVR and Sea Island his home since August 17 as part of Live@ YVR. Over his more than eight weeks living at YVR and sleeping at The Fairmont Vancouver Airport Hotel, Jaeger has told countless stories about Canada’s second busiest airport through liveatyvr.ca , Twitter and Facebook. Popular stories include when Jaeger followed YVR’s overnight cleaning crew, took a tour of the South Terminal Building, helped with a runway light check and participated in YVR’s School Tour Program. After being voted onto YVR’s Sea Island home by the public, Jaeger left for the first time in 80 days on Friday, November 4 after he was presented with an honorary Green Coat by Vancouver Airport Authority and its team of dedicated volunteers.

YVR Green Coat volunteer Bob Washington presents Jaeger Mah with an honourary Green Coat during his last of 80 days living at the airport and sharing its stories with the world via liveatyvr.ca.

Stay tuned to liveatyvr.ca to re-live Jaeger’s stories and continue to explore the unique, compelling and little-known stories of YVR and its 23,600 employees.

Grey Cup fever and festivities take off at YVR

Jaeger Mah, who has been living full-time at YVR as part of the Live@YVR program, steps into a car to leave his Sea Island home for the first time in 80 days.

Virgin Atlantic launches new flights between Vancouver and London

The Goodwood aviation experience page

10

aviation news:

World’s first commercial spaceport page

15

restaurants:

Neighbourhood guide

20

page

The countdown is on in Vancouver for the 2011 Grey Cup festivities. With the Grey Cup Festival starting November 24, culminating with the 99th annual Grey Cup Championship Game on Sunday, November 27, Vancouverites and football fans will be treated to four days of celebration and events. And at YVR it is no exception. With Grey Cup banners layered over the backdrop of YVR’s West-Coast styled terminals, it is clear to airport visitors and passengers that Vancouver is a host city. This year, the airport’s tenants stepped up their enthusiasm and brought the Grey Cup spirit to their areas of the terminal.

WestJet has transformed its checkin area into a virtual football field with goal posts on both ends of its 5-metre by 12-metre field. WestJet also partnered with Vancouver Airport Authority on November 4 and brought the Grey Cup to YVR. In-terminal entertainment and special visitors like the BC Lions Felions cheerleaders and Earl the Grey Cup mascot kept people snapping photos and smiling. Grey Cup volunteers dressed in distinctive uniforms welcomed visitors and ensured they received the assistance they needed to get to their destination. See Grey Cup fever page

3

www.aviationworld.net

Shop Online or see our full line of Gift Ideas in-store. * YVR is the international aeronautical designation for Vancouver International Airport.

Virgin Atlantic has announced the launch of a new route between Vancouver and London Heathrow. The new route will begin in May 2012 and will operate four times a week throughout the summer period until the end of October. The announcement is good news for Vancouverites wanting to book travel to London in the peak summer time in 2012, when the city will be hosting the Summer Olympics and Paralympic Games. “We have been working for years to bring this world-class carrier to Vancouver, so we are delighted to welcome Virgin Atlantic Airways to YVR starting in May,” said Larry Berg, Vancouver Airport Authority president and CEO. “What this means for British Columbia, and the Metro Vancouver area in particular, is more jobs and increased tourism revenue. It also adds much needed capacity to Europe in the busy summer season.” It is estimated that Virgin Atlantic

flights to Vancouver will contribute approximately $54-million in the first year, based on the number of additional travellers to Vancouver per year and the average price of a sixnight visit to Vancouver including spending money. “The North American market has always been at the core of our business,” said Steve Ridgway, Virgin Atlantic’s chief executive. “Our success here has been due to our investment in product innovation and our willingness to respond to customer demand. With almost 20,000 people flying from the U.K. to Canada each month in the peak season, the U.K. is the largest overseas market for passengers to British Columbia.” Service to Vancouver will be operated by Airbus A340-300 aircraft, and flights will be on sale from December 1, 2011. For further information or to book travel, please contact virgin-atlantic.com or call 1-800-862-8621.

QGOLFCLUB.CA 604.277.1101



www.skytalkonline.com

|

NOVEMBER

|

2011

SKYTALK

• 3

Community Corner

Your Airport & Sea Island Community Newspaper NOVEMBER 2011 Vol. 18 | No. 11 Website:

Airport Authority supports Richmond Centre for Disability

www.skytalkonline.com SkyTalk is owned and published monthly by Westco Marketing Ltd., for the travelling public and the more than 26,000

Grey Cup feverfrom pg 1

people who make up the airport community at Vancouver

International Airport. No portion of this publication may be

reproduced in whole or part

without the written permission of the publisher.

RICHMOND OFFICE:

Suite 306 - 5400 Airport Road South Richmond, BC V7B 1B4 Tel: 604-736-6754

Fax: 604-736-6750

Email: jstewart@westerndriver.com SkyTalk is distributed through dedicated racks in Vancouver

International Airport’s Domestic and International Terminals and Aiport

South, plus Sea Island businesses on

Grant McConachie Way, Miller Road

and Russ Baker Way. The publication is also distributed at Richmond hotels and to the Richmond community through Richmond City Hall,

Sue Ross, Vancouver Airport Authority, presents a cheque for $5,000 to Vince Miele, Richmond Centre for Disability chair and Frances Clarke, Richmond Centre for Disability secretary. Vancouver Airport Authority proudly presented a cheque for $5,000 to the Richmond Centre for Disability (RCD) at its Western Round Up-themed gala fundraiser last month. As the Gold Nugget sponsor, the Airport Authority celebrated the contributions made by RCD to the local community. Close to 200 guests entered the gala saloon at the Executive Airport Plaza Richmond, with RCD’s Dina McInnes performing the Master of Ceremonies duties. The gala raised $15,000 through a silent auction, raffle, 50/50 ticket program

Flu shots on the Fly

Richmond Chamber of Commerce

and Richmond Public Library. Each issue can be accessed online each

month at www.skytalkonline.com. P u b l is h er :

Patrick Stewart 604.644.9067 Email: pstewart@westerndriver.com A ssociat e P u b l is h er :

Joan Stewart 604.736.6754 Email: jstewart@westerndriver.com A d vert isin g S a l es M ana g er :

Dave Rogers 604.657.8945 Email: yvrskytalk@gmail.com C on t rib u t in g W ri t ers :

Peter Kutney, Andrew McCredie C reat ive / P ro d u c t ion :

Jim Martin P h o to g rap h y:

Jim Jorgenson, Tariq Jamil Y V R E d i toria l Liaison :

Communications Department ASSOCIATION OF AIRPORT PUBLICATIONS P.O. Agreement #1676261

Printed on Recycled Stock using vegetable based inks Please recycle this product.

www.skytalkonline.com

Flu season is just around the corner, and Vancouver Airport Medical Clinic—located on Level 1 of the Domestic Terminal Building, across from 7-Eleven—is offering the annual influenza vaccination shot to airport employees, visitors and travellers. This year’s flu shot includes the H1N1 virus strain, in addition to selected influenza A and B strains. For further information on seasonal influenza and the vaccine, visit the Public Health Agency of Canada website: phac-aspc.gc.ca/influenza/indexeng.php. Healthy people aged 2 to 64 in B.C. can get the influenza vaccine for $20. People with a high risk of serious illness from the flu, those able to transmit or spread it to others at a high risk of serious illness from the flu, and others who provide essential community services may be able to receive a free immunization. Vancouver Airport Medical Clinic is open Monday to Friday from 8am – 5pm, Saturday from 9am – 2pm and closed on Sundays and holidays. For more information and to book an appointment, call Vancouver Airport Medial Clinic at 604-207-6900.

and donations. All funds will be used to support services for people with disabilities, including information and referral services, skills development, peer support and employment initiatives. RCD focuses on promoting self-determination, capacity building and networking in order to bring equal and more diverse opportunities to support people with disabilities. For more information about RCD, visit rcdrichmond.org.

If you are travelling during the Grey Cup, YVR has several spots for drinking, dining and cheering on your favorite team, both before and after security. Before Security: • White Spot, Domestic Terminal, Level 3. • Koho Restaurant & Bar, International Terminal, Level 3 • Jetside Bar at the Fairmont Vancouver Airport, International Terminal, Level 3 • Stanley’s Happy Landing Lounge, Domestic Terminal, Level 2 • Big Board, International Terminal Food Court, Level 3. After Security: • Palomino Bar, Gate A3 • Milestone’s Restaurant, Gate D53 • Voyages Bar; Gate E85 • Pacific Gill, Gate E82 • Monk’s Grill, Gate C45

And be sure to check out these mouthwatering Grey Cup specials on November 27: • A Lean Beef Burger with fries and a pint of Canadian for $14.99 at Pacific Grill • A Legendary Burger with fries and Caesar salad at White Spot with a Nat Bailey Pale Ale for $17.99 • A Milestones beef burger and fries with a pint of Canadian for $19.99 at Milestones and Palomino Bar. If you’re a fan of the Grey Cup, pick up your favorite Grey Cup licensed merchandise like a retro helmet hat for $49.99 or Grey Cup City Scene T-shirt for $24.99 at YVR’s Grey Cup merchandise retail carts located in Domestic departures, before security and Gate A1, after security.


4 •

|

SKYTALK

NOVEMBER

2011

|

www.skytalkonline.com

Halloween festivities at YVR As children were preparing to take to the streets and trick-or-treat, some spooky sights appeared at Vancouver International Airport on October 31, when Vancouver Airport Authority hosted its Annual Halloween Pumpkin Carving and Costume Contest. The public event was well attended by passengers and airport community members, who came out to cheer on their friends and coworkers. Spectators enjoyed lunch specials as part of the festivities, while Live@YVR resident Jaeger Mah

Community Corner

kept everyone’s energy level high as Master of Ceremonies. Contestants in the pumpkin-carving contest showed off their abilities by submitting pre-carved pumpkins to be judged. The contest is competitive and the number of entries has grown each year. This year, 65 pumpkins were submitted, with designs ranging from owls to monsters—even Jaeger Mah found his face on a pumpkin. First-, second- and third-place prizes were handed out in both the carving and

Live@YVR resident Jaeger Mah (far right) served as Master of Ceremonies at YVR’s Annual Halloween Pumpkin Carving and Costume Contest.

Kim Halowski , Vancouver Airport Authority marketing & tenant relations representative, retail & passenger services, presents a costumed Jack Sparrow with his first-place award of an Apple iPad 2.

costume contest. The coveted prize of an Apple iPad 2 was awarded to the firstplace winners, while second and third place received $200 and $100 YVR Bucks, respectively. Michael Valeroso from BCIT Aerospace won the top prize in the pumpkin carving contest for his Frankenstein pumpkin, which included realistic-looking dripping blood and exposed brains. Second place was awarded to Crystal Yamamoto from Securiguard for her carving of a Tiger, and third place went to the Marquise Facilities Team for its pump-

kin rendition of the iPhone classic game, Angry Birds. The costume contest was just as competitive with 60 creative entries, but it was Pirates of the Caribbean’s Captain

Jack Sparrow who stole the show and was awarded first place, while second place went to Scorpion from Mortal Combat and third place to the Good Witch from The Wizard of Oz.

Christmas elves already sighted at YVR

Warehouse for Lease 7,588 Square feet

Vancouver Airport Authority employees pack Christmas cheer for Quest Food Exchange.

4840 Miller Road, Richmond, BC

Net Lease Rate: $

10.00

per sf per annum

n 24’

ceilings n 3 phase 120/208 Volt 400 Amp Power Available n 12 Dock Loading Doors n 3 Grade Loading Doors n 6 Grade Loading Doors with Airside Access n Depth 129’ | Length 235’ For more information, please contact:

Wayne Duzita . . . wduzita@hreit.ca Lisa Kaisers . . . . . lkaisers@hreit.ca

IAT Management LP VA N C O U V E R

Tel: 604.249.5120 Fax: 604.249.5101 Suite 2000 – 5000 Miller Rd. Richmond, BC

C A L G A RY

EDMONTON

S A S K AT O O N

WINNIPEG

The holiday-giving spirit hit Vancouver Airport Authority staff in October following a call for help from Quest Food Exchange. With Christmas fast approaching, Quest reached out to YVR for help in building 500 Christmas hampers to give families the opportunity to celebrate the holiday season together with a hearty turkey dinner at a greatly reduced cost. Airport Authority employees responded to the call with great enthusiasm and a heavy dose of competitiveness. Armed with a reusable YVR shopping bag and a list of requested items, they took to the grocery stores and the food items started piling high. Hamper items such as soups, crackers, canned vegetables, potatoes, juice and gravy were included to make a turkey dinner to remember. Come hamper-packing day, the operational spirit shone through and employees were up for the challenge. With great planning and collaboration, 60 employees manned the production line to pack 160 hampers in just 40 minutes, an impressive showing of dedication to the task. “I am so proud of our employees and what they have achieved,” said Anne Murray, Vancouver Airport Authority’s vice president of community and environmental affairs. “This was an entirely voluntary challenge and our employees have embraced it with enthusiasm and passion for helping the community.” As employees teamed up to pack hampers, Murray announced the Airport Authority would match employee donations, resulting in even more hampers for Quest’s clients. This month, YVR’s volunteer

Green Coats and concessionaires will also answer the call. YVR’s Christmas tree sponsorship funds will be donated to Quest to cover the cost of turkeys for the hampers. In addition, Green Coats and staff of HMS Host, Hudson Group, Fairmont Vancouver Airport Hotel, Paradies Shops, BG Urban Café, LS Travel Retail, ICE Currency, Fortune Way Group, Absolute Spa and CDS Priority Baggage will be shopping for hamper items with a goal of an additional 300 hampers. With this kind of community spirit in action, YVR expects to exceed its goal of 500 hampers. Watch for holiday activity in the East Concourse on December 1 from 1pm to 3pm, when the hamper boxes will be piled high in readiness to send out to Quest for distribution. YVR’s Singing Santa will be there to help and available for photographs. In 2011, Vancouver Airport Authority partnered with Quest Food Exchange as its official transportation sponsor to help reduce hunger with dignity, while reducing airport waste. To date, the YVR community has donated more than $120,000 cash and $130,000 worth of food, thereby diverting more than 2,100 kilograms of waste from the landfill. Quest Food Exchange collects and distributes overstocked, mislabelled or near-expiry products that would otherwise go to waste and diverts that food to people who need it. Operating three low-cost grocery stores, Quest offers food to nearly 400 social service agencies and their clients for a fraction of the retail cost. For more information, visit questoutreach.org.


www.skytalkonline.com

|

NOVEMBER

2011

Ground Run-up Enclosure rises

|

SKYTALK

• 5

Community Corner

YVR’s Ground Run-up Enclosure (GRE) is coming together quickly. Head over to the outdoor viewing platform next to the South Terminal Building for the best views of all the action—there is plenty of steel, concrete, trucks and planes to keep anyone entertained. YVR’s GRE will minimize noise in surrounding communities from aircraft engine run-ups. Construction completion is slated for December 2011. For more information, visit yvr.ca.

Bloodmobile to visit YVR

Noise information seminars Vancouver International Airport is committed to noise management practices and the need to balance safe, convenient, 24-hour air travel with enjoyable urban living. As a part of this commitment to its neighbouring communities, Vancouver Airport Authority hosts noise information seminars, available to the public to learn about noise management at YVR. On various Saturdays throughout the year, seminars are held at the airport and include a presentation about noise management practices at YVR, demonstrations of the Aircraft Noise & Monitoring System (ANOMS), and a bus tour of the airfield.

Canadian Blood Services is once again encouraging airport employees and travellers to get on board and save lives when it deploys a donor clinic to YVR on Friday, November 18. The bloodmobile is a mobile donor clinic on wheels with four comfortable donation beds and screening rooms, making it easy to donate blood. The Bloodmobile will be parked on the curb outside of the International Terminal on Level 2, from 8:30am to 2:45pm. Airport employees wishing to donate are encouraged to book an appointment in advance, by calling 1 888 2 DONATE or by booking online at donatenow.blood.ca. Be sure to mention you want to book an

appointment at the YVR Bloodmobile on November 18. The blood donation process takes about one hour. Participants register with a piece of identification, have their blood tested for iron levels using a fingertip sample and answer a series of questions to determine eligibility before donating. After the donation has been collected, participants relax with a snack in the mobile clinic’s refreshment area. Canadian Blood Services Bloodmobile travels around the Metro Vancouver area and collects up to 8,000 donations every year. For more information, visit blood.ca

Why Stay In A Hotel Room When You Can Have Your Own Suite? Take more of your life with you when you stay with

Canada’a Can#1 Extended-stay A

Extende

902.420.1333 | www.premi

BA adds Bronze tier for frequent flyers British Airways is re-launching its Executive Club for frequent fliers with a brand new Bronze card tier. Currently, Executive Club members start as Blue cardholders and can qualify for a Silver card after collecting 600 tier points, including four British Airways flights and move up to a Gold card after achieving 1,500 tier points, including four British Airways flights. The Bronze tier will bridge the gap between Blue and Silver tiers. The new Bronze card will be awarded to members who achieve 300 tier points or 25 single flights—half the number needed to achieve Silver card status. Blue cardholders, who have already collected 300 tier points or more, can expect to receive their new Bronze card from November 16. Customers can join British Airways’ Executive Club for free. They then earn Avios, the airline’s new currency for frequent fliers, according to how often they fly, how far and the type of ticket held. All Executive Club customers will now be able to collect as many tier points as

The ANOMS system receives noise data from 20 fixed noise monitoring terminals located throughout the community, as well as radar flight track information. This allows YVR to measure the contribution of aircraft noise in the community and to track aircraft operations for compliance procedures The next seminar is scheduled to be held on November 26, 2011. Registration is mandatory no later than one week prior to the seminar and space is limited. For more information on the seminars, including how to register, visit YVR’s website at yvr.ca.

New project.

902.420 ww

New people. New city. New routine There is a lot to think about when you are on the move...

Canada’a #1 Provider of Extended-stay Accommodations

that’s why we are thinking about what you need. Premiere Executive Suites is Canada’s number one provider of luxury, extended stay executive suites. We provide more of the amenities you’re used to at home so that you can maintain a more normal and comfortable routine until you get back home. they can in any one membership year, rather than start again when they’ve reached the next tier level. A new brand identity has also been developed for the Club to create a greater sense of membership for members, including a new look for customers’ cards. The redesign is intended to broaden the Executive Club’s appeal, attract new members and give a stronger brand identity.

You can’t stay home and chase opportunities, but you can conquer new challenges from familiar surroundings. Premiere Executive Suites is Canada’s #1 provider of luxury, extended-stay accommodations. Our designer suites offer fully appointed kitchens and living rooms with a bevy of additional amenities. All for less cost than most hotel rooms, you work hard. You deserve to rest easy.

902.420.1333 | 1.866.844.1333 www.premieresuites.com

Downtown Vancouver | Yaletown | Burnaby | Richmond | Abbotsford | Langley | Coquitlam | Chilliwack And from coast to coast FOR RATES AND DETAILS

CALL

604.569.0543

WWW.PREMIERESUITES.COM

You can’t stay home and chase opportunity. But you can conquer from familiar surroundings. Premier Executive Suites is Canada’s


YVR Golf for Kids 6

Come join the airport community this September and hit the links for a friendly S K Y your T A L K event information N O V E M B Eto R2 011 | w w w . s k y t a l k o n l i n e . cgame o mof golf to raise money for some very •Email jstewart@westerndriver.com special children. This year, YVR Golf for Kids is celethe last 19 years, the event has donated more brating its 20th Anniversary with its annual than $3-million to Canuck Place Children’s golf tournament and gala dinner event on Abbotsford International September 15. Hospice and other children’s charities. The Airshow The tournament will be played at continued support from the Vancouver the beautiful Quilchena Golf & Country Abbotsford International Airport, Canucks organization and businesses within Club in Richmond, with the dinner, aucthe airport and local communities truly tions and evening events being held at Abbotsford, BC the River Rock Resort and Casino in exemplifies the unique spirit and commitment The Abbotsford Airshow will welcome the Richmond. that makes this fundraising event so long-awaited F-22 demo team for what will YVR Golf for Kids brings together the worthwhile and rewarding. For more details, be its first appearance in Western Canada. For airport and surrounding communities in a unique effort to raise funds for children’s visit yvrgolfforkids.com. more information and to order tickets, visit

|

August 12-14, 2011 YVR Golf for Kids lends support to Skate with Santa

abbotsfordairshow.com.

August 12, 19 & 26, 2011

October 19-21, 2011 Canadian Council for Aviation &

YVR Take-Off Fridays

Aerospace Annual Forum & AGM

Vancouver International Airport

Radisson Hotel, 288 Portage Avenue,

Every Friday in August; family-style

Winnipeg, MB

entertainment, live DJs, visits by local

CCAA’s 20th annual Forum & AGM continues

mascots, lunch specials and airside

to be one of the foremost events in Canadian

vehicle demonstrations visible from the

aviation and aerospace. The goals of

Public Observation Area. Fun celebration

the CCAA Forum are to provide industry

throughout the main terminal—before and

professionals with the opportunity to

after security from 9am to 3pm. Event details

examine current trends and best practices,

at yvr.ca.

and for CCAA to consult with industry on its

August 20, 2011

projects and priorities. In addition, popular social events such as the Welcome Reception and the Awards Night & Gala Evening

World 11th Annual ElizabethAviation Specht (left) and Greg Halsey-Brandt (right) of the Richmond Christmas Fund are presented with a $5,000 cheque by YVR are occasions for delegates to socialize Golf for Kids chair Cheryl Hendrickson and co-founder Customer Appreciation Day Wayne Duzita. in a relaxed and informal atmosphere.

Baker Way, on the be overstatable toBCcreate some really specialformshad YVR 105-6080 Golf for KidsRuss has donated $5,000Richmond, Registration must becommunity returned cannot to CCAA ed,” said Specht. “It’s an inspiring 20-year Christmas memories and we want to from its September 15 fundraiser to support A must-attend event for aviation buffs, where by September 16, 2011 to confirm a place at legacy and one we’re proud the Richmond thank YVR Golf for Kids for making the Richmond Fund’s with products you Christmas can check out Skate the latest in store, the 2011 Forum. For more Fund information, visit Christmas can share in.” that possible.” Santa annual event. at substantial discounts. Noon to 4pm. In addition to distributing grocery YVR Golf For Kids has been supportSkate many with Santa is held each December avaerocouncil.ca. lunch, outside vouchers to more than 2,000 low-income ing local under children’s charities since 1991. at MinoruDon’t Arenasmiss and isthe openfree to allBBQ families Richmond residents each holiday season, The annual event, which includes a golf with children under 12 who Visit register with the flight path. aviationworld.net. the Richmond Christmas Fund provides tournament, gala dinner and silent auction, the Richmond Christmas Fund. nearly 1,000 children with toys, games, is organized by members of the airport “The kids love [the event],” said BC Aviation Council Silver Wings and books. community and, over the past two decades, Elizabeth Specht, executive director Awards Banquet Family registration begins in late has raised more than $3-million for orgaof Volunteer Richmond Information Future Travel Experience 2011 November, withVisit a complete list of nizations like Canuck Place Services. “They get to skate alongside MoreChildren’s details closer to the date. dates and times available at volunteerHospice.Drive, Santa, take with him and 1601 even Bayshore Thephotos Westin Bayshore, bcaviationcouncil.org. richmond.ca. “The impact YVR Golf for Kids has receive a gift bag at the end. We’re

October 27, 2011

September 7-9, 2011

Vancouver, BC

This unique global forum for travel industry

stakeholdersEvents will focus on the end-to-end Upcoming

November 8-10, 2011

travel process from the passenger point of

Flight Instructor Refresher

view, from the moment of booking through

Course—Aeroplane and

to the collection of baggage at the arrival

Helicopter

destination, and will assess how every aspect

Main Terminal Boardroom, Boundary Bay

of the passenger experience on the ground

Airport, Delta, BC

can be improved. Hosted by Vancouver

Course Fee: $560

Airport Authority. For more details, visit

Professional Development of your

futuretravelexperience.com.

Instructional Techniques as an Aviation

September 15, 2011 YVR Golf for Kids 20th

Government of Canada begins action to cut backlog for family reunification

Around at Events

Summit Softball Slam Grandparent Super Visa that will be valid Each year, Citizenship and Immigration for up to 10 years and will allow an Canada (CIC) receives applications for applicant to remain in Canada for up to sponsorship of nearly 38,000 parents and 24 months at a time without the need for grandparents. With more than 165,000 parrenewal of their status. The Parent and ents and grandparents who have applied Grandparent Super Visa will come into to become permanent residents of Canada effect on December 1, 2011, and CIC currently waiting for a final decision, the will be able to issue the visas, on average, Government of Canada has taken action to within eight weeks of the application. This cut the backlog and wait times. means that instead of waiting for eight “Wait times for Family Class sponsoryears, a parent or a grandparent can come ship applications for parents and grandto Canada within eight weeks. Parent and parents now exceed seven years, and Grandparent Super Visa applicants will be without taking action, those times will Poco Titans team,that winners of ‘A’ Division at this to year’s Hope for Kids Softball required obtain private Canadian healthcontinue to softball grow, and is unacceptSlam. care insurance for their stay in Canada. able,” said Citizenship, Immigration and Consultation Canadians on one the Multiculturalism build a daycare in with Lam Kaen, Thailand, The 4th annualMinister Hope forJason Kids Kenney. Softball redesign of affected the parents andtsunami. grandparents “Action mustheld be taken to cut the backlog, of the areas by the Slam event, last month at the King reunification program to in ensure is since susreduce waitintimes, and ensure the The daycare was built 2006 itand Georgethe Park Richmond, raisedthatmore tainable, avoids large backlogs and is sensiparents and grandparents program is susthen, the charity has held annual events to than $11,000 for the charity. tive fiscal constraints. tainable long run.”charity began as raisetomoney to aid needy children in the The over Hopethefor Kids A temporary pause—now in effect—of Phaseof Ithe of massive the government’s Action Richmond community. a result 2004 tsunami that up to 24 months on softball the acceptance of Plan for Faster Family Reunification will This year’s annual event, held occurred off the coast of Thailand and new sponsorship applications for parents include the following. under the auspices of Summit Customs surrounding countries in the Indian Ocean. and grandparents. The pause in An increase byanmore than 60ofper cent Brokers, included participation byreceiving members Rubina Wong, employee Summit applications put in place to prevent the number of sponsored parents and of the airportwas community and the support Customs Brokers, was vacationing in the build-upand of an unmanageable number grandparents Canada will admit next year, of sponsors volunteers, with whom the Thailand when the tsunami hit and unfortuof newwould applications thea consultafrom 25,000 event not have during been such success. nately nearly did not15,500 survive.inA 2010 group to of Wong’s tion For processmore and further reduce the current in 2012—the highestand levelfriends in nearly two information, visit family, co-workers banded backlog of parent and grandparent applidecades. hopeforkids.ca. together to create the non-profit group to cants. A new multiple-entry Parent and

Instructor and Renewal of your Flight Instructor Rating. Course Manager: Bob Leroux, Class 1 Flight Instructor, Pilot Examiner

Email your event information to jstewart@westerndriver.com and former Inspector with Transport Canada. Anniversary Golf Tournament & Gala Dinner Event

November 13-15 Golf: QGolf Club, 3551 Granville Avenue,

Air Transport Association of Richmond, BC Canada 2011 AGM & Tradeshow Gala Dinner Event: River Rock Resort and

Fairmont Queen Elizabeth Hotel, 900 Rene Casino, 8811 River Road, Richmond, BC Levesque Blvd. W, Montreal, QC The YVR Golf for Kids annual golf and dinner Details to be announced. Visit atac.ca. auction brings together the airport and surrounding communities in a unique effort November 18 to raise funds for children’s charities. Over

Canadian Bloodmobile

For more information, visit navpath.com or call toll free 1-855-NAVPATH.

December 4

Rogers Santa Clause Parade

November 13-15, 2011

Participation by Vancouver Airport Authority. Air Transport Association of Starts at 1pm. Parade begins at West Georgia Canada 2011 AGM & Tradeshow Street andQueen Broughton, travels east900 along West Fairmont Elizabeth Hotel, Rene Levesquenorth Blvd. on W, Burrard Montreal, QC Georgia, and finishes at Details to be announced. Visit atac.ca. Burrard and Cordova.

International Arrivals Level 2 8:30am to 2:45pm (see editorial on page 5)

January 27-28, 2012

November 29-December 2

PAMEA 2012 Aircraft

Children’s Christmas Tree Decorating

Maintenance Symposium & Trade

YVR East Concourse

December 1, 2011 Christmas Hamper Drop-off for Quest Food Exchange

Show BCIT Aerospace Technology Campus, 3800 Cessna Drive, Richmond, BC Free parking for exhibitors and delegates in

YVR East Concourse

the student parking lot at BCIT.

1pm to 3pm (see editorial on cover)

For more information, visit pamea.com.

charities. Over the last 19 years, YVR Golf for Kids has donated more than $3-million to Canuck Place Children’s Hospice and other children’s charities in British Columbia. The continued support from the Vancouver Canucks organization and businesses within the airport and local communities truly exemplifies the unique spirit and commitment to this premier event. Come tee-up at Quilchena Golf and Country Club and enjoy some friendly competition. To learn more about YVR Golf for Kids and how you can participate in this year’s events, visit yvrgolfforkids.com.

38.00 CDN R/T

$


www.skytalkonline.com

Transat eliminates 143 positions across Canada In a bid to restore its profitability and save $10-million a year, Montreal-based Transat A.T. Inc. eliminated 143 non-union positions across Canada last month, including 115 layoffs. The non-union positions included vice presidents, senior directors, supervisors and administrative personnel. No flight attendants were let go. Approximately 60 per cent of the lost jobs, or 80 positions, were in Quebec. Half the jobs were at the corporate headquarters of Transat and the other half from Transat Canada Group, which includes Air Transat, Transat Distribution Canada and Transat Tours Canada. According to Transat spokesperson Debbie Cabana, Transat A.T. is also preparing a corporate restructuring that will be announced later this fall to simplify its decision making, reduce operating costs and to respond more nimbly to changes in the market. Transat reported a third-quarter loss of $2.9-million compared to a profit of $20.9-million a year earlier. Several top officials including chief operating officer Nelson Gentiletti and Transat Tours Canada president Michael DiLollo have left Transat. Air Transat CEO Jean-Marc Eustache will take a more active management role as president of Transat Canada.

|

NOVEMBER

here for

you!

2012 MAZDA 3 GS LUXURY PACKAGE

Vancouver Airport Chaplaincy

$

0 DOWN 0 SECURITY

Please visit us on International Arrivals Level 1, or contact us by phone: (604) 303-3010 or email: ldaggett@shaw.ca www.yvrchaplain.com SKYTALK

SKYTALK

• 7

SIGNATURE MAZDA EXCLUSIVE

we’re

18 •

|

2011

299/mo.

Loaded with Leather, Heated Seats, Power Group, Rain Sensing Wipers, Dusk Sensing Headlights, DSC, TSC and much more. VERY LIMITED SUPPLY • COME IN OR CALL TODAY 604-278-3185 2 STORES: On-Line and in the Richmond AutoMall www.signaturemazda.com

|

AUGUST

INFORMATION TECHNOLOGY SOLUTIONS

2011

|

www.skytalkonline.com

24/7 SERVICE CALL 1 877 97 HARBOUR (42726)

M S

Allen Graham, president Transat Canada. Cabana said Transat is not planning on more cuts to its 6,500 employees in Canada, Britain and France “over the short term.” A holiday travel specialist, Transat operates mainly in Canada and Europe, as well as in the Caribbean, Mexico and the Mediterranean Basin. The company is also active in air transportation, destination services and distribution.

National Research Council aims to help aircraft manufacturers reduce noise

Computer and Network Support Proactive

Backup & Disaster Recovery Protect Your Business

Hosted Phone Systems Save Big On Your Bills

Office In A Box Saving You Space And Money

Our Services are designed to dramatically reduce or eliminate computer problems in your business while maximizing your network's speed, performance, and stability, without the expense of a full time IT Staff.

SAVE $50.00 on your next COMPUTER SERVICE

WWW.SAFE-HARBOUR.CA

For use toward your next service call. Offer applies to the labour charge only. Limit one coupon per customer. No cash value. May not be redeemed for other services.

f t C

i n h t a a

M

NEW WAREHOUSE CLEARANCE CENTRE

National Research Council of Canada’s nine-metre by nine-metre wind tunnel. The National Research Council of Canada (NRC), which is celebrating its 60th anniversary this year, has commissioned a wind tunnel to help aircraft manufacturers measure the noise levels generated by aircraft landing gear. Unique in Canada, this facility will help airline manufacturers meet internationally accepted and ever more stringent noise standards. In the next 10 years, regulations will aim to reduce noise generated by commercial aircraft by 32 decibels relative to the current standard. In Ottawa, one of the eight wind tunnels operated by NRC Aerospace has been outfitted with an acoustic liner and precision noise measurement technology. This tunnel can house landing gear and simulate the wind conditions during deployment and on approach, generating wind speeds up to 150 knots. NRC aerodynamics experts take landing gear apart and reassemble it part by part, measuring the noise generated by wind flowing around each component as well as that caused by components interacting. The idea is to guide manufacturers in the design of specific components to reduce their sound impact. The body behind the research is the Green Aviation R&D Network (GARDN), a federally established business-led network of Centres of Excellence. Bombardier Aerospace, Bell Helicopter, Pratt & Whitney Canada and

CMC Electronics are among the industry partners collaborating with NRC and nine universities to help manufacturers produce greener aircraft. Regulations, targets and limits are set by the International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) and NASA’s Environmental Responsibility Aviation (ERA) program. Until recently, the industry had focused on measuring and reducing the noise generated by engines alone. Turbofan-powered airliners and business jets are becoming progressively quieter through higher bypass ratios, acoustic materials and nacelle design techniques, in order to meet increasingly stringent noise reduction targets. Yet little known is the fact that the airframe also generates significant noise because of air flow turbulence around the landing gear, wheel wells, flaps and slats. NRC Aerospace has tested a full-scale Bombardier Learjet 60 landing gear, combining many permutations. “We looked at the gear struts and axles individually, but also the interaction between such components,” said NRC aeroacoustics researcher Jerry Syms. “The drag strut/main strut combination, gear doors, brake lines, wheel wells and other components generate enough noise on their own to merit attention.” Aircraft equipment manufacturers can now call on NRC Aerospace for this type of acoustic assessment.

Enter your Email to Win a FREE 55” TV Vancouver: 1618 SE Marine Drive Corner Knight Street Bridge

(604) 507-8324

Surrey: #64-7789 134th Street

(604) 507-8324

Check out

www.openbox.ca


8 •

SKYTALK

|

NOVEMBER

2011

|

www.skytalkonline.com

Reflections on B.C. aviation entrepreneurs By Jack Schofield Back in 1946, when I was learning to fly at the BC Aero Club located at YVR, I recall looking out of the clubhouse window one day and viewing the arrival of a rather bedraggled looking Tiger Moth biplane. Normally painted yellow, this Moth was streaked with white stuff. The pilot was wearing a helmet with goggles, which wasn’t too common in those days. It was clear that he had good reason for requiring the protection as the front cockpit of his biplane was full of DDT, and a lot of it was covering his face. When the prop came to a standstill and the pilot got out of the rear cockpit, one could see that he was covered in the insecticide powder and his face was white from the flour-like substance. In those days, no one was aware of the danger of eating or inhaling DDT and it was being liberally sprayed on all the crops in the Fraser Valley. On that day, walking toward me was a recently returned Spitfire pilot from the Battle of Britain, who was now gaining fame for doing all that lethal crop dusting—Art Seller was his name, and he hailed from up the Valley at Langley. The next time I heard of Seller, he had discarded the old Moth and modified a couple of snappy-looking Stearman biplanes for his crop dusting forays. As Seller’s business grew, he purchased two Grumman Avengers that had been put up for sale by the Royal Canadian Navy in Victoria. The Avenger was a big carrierbased, single engine torpedo bomber that

had been used by the US Navy during the Pacific War. The Avenger had a huge torpedo bay that Seller modified to contain his infamous DDT. He could switch from spraying crops to fighting fires with these powerful airplanes, and they soon became famous—along with Seller and his company, Skyway Air Services. A couple of the pilots who flew for Seller later became famous when they formed a spin-off company to Skyway Air Services called Conair Aviation. These aviation pioneers then developed Art Seller’s little business into a world leader in aerial application work, receiving fire-fighting contracts from all over Canada and the world. As the company expanded, the Avengers were sold and replaced by large multi-engine aircraft for fire fighting, and modifications were made to several Second World War bombers to create these fire-fighting water bombers. Further success led to the construction of an aircraft maintenance and manufacturing centre in three large hangars outside of Vancouver in the City of Abbotsford airport. Today, in addition to their worldwide fire control services, Conair performs maintenance services on aircraft flown by many of the world’s major airlines. Art Seller and his Tiger Moth are gone now, as is the use of DDT, but the entrepreneurial spirit Seller engendered during those early days lives on in the B.C. aviation industry.

Aviation Hisory

Art Seller with his fleet of Avengers purchased from the Royal Canadian Navy. Photo: courtesy Skyway archives.

SIGNATURE MAZDA EXCLUSIVE 2012 MAZDA 3 GS LUXURY PACKAGE

Skyway Air Services modified the torpedo bay of two Grumman Avenger aircraft and used them for aerial spraying.

$

0 DOWN 0 SECURITY

299/mo. Canada Post moves to YVR

Loaded with Leather, Heated Seats, Power Group, Rain Sensing Wipers, Dusk Sensing Headlights, DSC, TSC and much more. VERY LIMITED SUPPLY • COME IN OR CALL TODAY 604-278-3185 2 STORES: On-Line and in the Richmond AutoMall www.signaturemazda.com

Richmond and YVR will be recipients of a major new investment as Canada Post begins construction this fall on a new processing facility. Canada Post secured the long-term lease for 17 hectares of land, strategically

Available January 26/2012

Order your autographed copy hot off the press 180 beautifully illustrated pages in full colour. Softcover. Email your name and mailing address to:

coastdog2@shaw.ca We will contact you when your copy comes off the press.

Fling Wing Pilot

tells the definitive story of British Columbia’s key role in the development of the commercial helicopter. Early histories of Okanagan and VIH, the advent of heli-logging coupled with adventures from forty year veteran fling wing pilot, Peter Barratt, the guy who ‘put the fly in fly-fishing’ and launched a new name in the industry – West Coast Helicopters.

Email Jack Schofield at: coastdog2@shaw.ca

Coast Dog Press

located next to the province’s key air transport hub. Construction on the new processing facility is scheduled to begin this fall, with the facility expected to be fully operational in 2014. Canada Post is investing $200-million in the new multi-purpose processing facility and related equipment for the plant, which will process letters, parcels, packets and advertising mail under one roof. According to Canada Post, building a processing facility at YVR is a strategic decision that will improve Canada Post’s access to vital transportation links and allow Canada Post to continue to grow its eCommerce business, process the mail faster, improve its delivery logistics and provide better customer service. Vancouver is responsible for postal delivery in British Columbia and the Yukon, and accounts for 10 per cent of

national mail volumes. Vancouver is particularly important to Canada Post’s operations because the city is a gateway to Asia-Pacific and a critical component of the company’s western operations. With its international role, the new Vancouver processing facility will house a Canada Border Services Agency operation to better serve western Canadians. The new postal facility will be built to Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design (LEED) standards and will take up as small an ecological footprint as possible. Once completed, Canada Post employees from downtown Vancouver and the Vancouver Parcel Deliver Centre in Richmond will move to the new airport location. Canada Post anticipates that it will continue to operate at the Georgia Street West facility until 2015.

we’re

herefor you! Vancouver Airport Chaplaincy

a Quiet Place... ... for quiet reflection, prayer, meditation ... to relax, listen to music, eat your lunch, read a book. a Safe Place...

Please visit us on International Arrivals Level 1, or contact us by phone: (604) 303-3010 or email: ldaggett@shaw.ca • www.yvrchaplain.com


www.skytalkonline.com

|

NOVEMBER

2011

|

Enjoy afternoon tea at Chinese airline places order The Fairmont Vancouver for CRJ900 NextGen aircraft Airport Hotel By Joan Stewart Starting this month, one of England’s most beloved traditions—the taking of Afternoon Tea—will be offered at The Fairmont Vancouver Airport Hotel. Afternoon Tea will be served in the relaxing atmosphere of Fairmont’s Jetside Bar and Globe@YVR, which boasts soundproof floor-to-ceiling windows that offer wonderful views of departing aircraft. Legend has it that the English ritual of Afternoon Tea was started in the mid-1800s by the Duchess of Bedford. At that time, there were only two meals served each day—a mid-morning, breakfast-like meal and an increasingly late dinner-like meal, so it was a very long time between meals. The story goes that the Duchess complained about a “sinking feeling” in the late afternoon, which led her to begin inviting friends to join her for assorted snacks and tea around 4pm to fill the gap between breakfast and dinner. The idea of an afternoon tea gathering spread across high society and became a favourite past-time of ladies of leisure. Food at tea included such things as thin crust-less sandwiches, shrimp or fish pâté, toasted breads with jams, and regional pastries such as scones and crumpets. In Canada, Afternoon Tea has been a time-honoured tradition at the renowned tea lobby of The Fairmont Empress for more than a century, where it has been served to royalty, celebrities and dignitaries alike. Starting November 12, travellers through YVR will now have a chance to enjoy the Afternoon Tea experience. “I was inspired by the rich history

Freshly baked scones, Devonshire cream, assorted sandwiches and select pastries provide the perfect accompaniment to the Fairmont’s exclusively blended teas. of Fairmont Afternoon Tea to create a traditional experience in a non-traditional setting,” said Chef Geoff Carkner. Afternoon Tea at The Fairmont Vancouver Airport Hotel will include exclusively blended Fairmont teas, petit sandwiches, tasty pastries, freshly baked scones and strawberries with Devonshire cream at $36 per person. A special Junior tea (ages 5 to 12) at $18 per child includes scones, sandwiches and dessert selections such as a vanilla cream puff, lemon tarts and a chocolatedipped airplane cookie. Call 604-248-3281 to reserve your spot and enjoy one of the finest of English traditions.

A Chinese airline, which has requested to remain unidentified at the present time, has signed an agreement to purchase six Bombardier CRJ900 NextGen aircraft. The transaction, which is the first for CRJ900 aircraft in China, includes options on an additional five CRJ900 NextGen aircraft. Based on the list price for the CRJ900 NextGen aircraft, the contract for the six aircraft is valued at approximately $264-million US. Should the additional five CRJ900 aircraft be purchased, the value of the contract would increase to $491-million US. “Since the introduction of the original Canadair Regional Jet in 1992, Bombardier’s CRJ Series aircraft have become the best-selling regional aircraft program in history and we look forward to welcoming more operators in China,” said Guy C. Hachey, president and CEO, Bombardier Aerospace. “Bombardier Aerospace is uniquely positioned as the only aircraft manufacturer with three distinct and optimized aircraft families in the 60- to 149-seat market segment. We are well positioned to grow our commercial aircraft business in China.” More than 80 Bombardier-produced aircraft, including CRJ Series and Q-Series commercial aircraft, as well as Learjet, Challenger and Global business jets are currently operating in China. Bombardier predicts that over the next 20 years, China’s fleet of commercial aircraft will grow as it becomes the world’s second largest market for new aircraft deliveries, following closely behind the United States. Worldwide, CRJ Series aircraft are in

SKYTALK

Aviation News

In addition to low emission and noise levels, Bombardier’s CRJ900 NextGen jet is noted for its impressive fuel efficiency, consuming less than four litres of fuel per passenger over 100 kilometres. service with more than 60 airlines and have logged more than 31-million flight hours and 26-million take-off and landing cycles.

In addition to airline operations, more than 30 customers operate corporate variants of CRJ Series aircraft.

Tuesday, November 15th I 9am – 4pm International Terminal, Departures Level 3 (UNDERNEATH THE FAIRMONT VANCOUVER AIRPORT)

JUST IN TIME FOR THE HOLIDAYS.

GIFTS

SPA PRODUCTS

YVR Merchants are clearing out their warehouses. Find the perfect holiday gifts at reduced prices. Come early for

TOYS

WATCHES & CLOCKS

APPAREL

OLYMPIC BANNERS & MORE.

best selection.

The Fairmont Vancouver Airport Hotel’s Jetside Bar with its roaring fire and wonderful views provides the perfect oasis for the Afternoon Tea experience at YVR.

• 9


10 •

SKYTALK

|

NOVEMBER

2011

|

www.skytalkonline.com

The Goodwood aviation experience

Airbus Concept Cabin-the aircraft’s biopolymer membrane would allow for panoramic cabin views. es found in today’s commercial aircraft. With an eye on a more sustainable By Mike Tate • Photos: Mike Tate & Associates. Instead, it incorporates individual zones world, Airbus provided a glimpse of the with vitalizing, interaction and smart-tech future at this year’s Paris Air Show, demareas so passengers can hold business onstrating its new Concept Cabin. meetings, play games or just relax while Conceived as a new flying experience enjoying the world beneath them-viewing inspired by nature, the Concept Cabin the world through the cabin’s bionic strucdoesn’t replicate traditional cabin class-

‘Freddie,’ the Earl of March, chats to one of the Spitfire Prototype Re-Constructors at The Goodwood Air Display. This is part II of the 2011 Goodwood experience. Part1—Goodwood Festival of Speed—ran in last month’s issue of SkyTalk. The magnificent Goodwood Estate in England that belongs to The Earl of March is home to horses and horsepower, and internationally known for its annual motorsport and aviation extravaganza— Goodwood Revival. The estate’s storied past also includes the dark days of World War Two, when it housed the Royal Air Force base of Westhampnett, which was home to both Vickers Supermarine Spitfire and Hawker Hurricane squadrons between 1939 and 1945. The Spitfire aircraft celebrates its 75th anniversary this year and during this year’s Goodwood Revival a record number of more than a dozen Spitfires ‘scrambled’ into the air to pay homage to their erst-

ture coated with a biopolymer membrane that eliminates the need for windows. Organically-grown seats will sense passengers’ needs and adapt for the perfect fit, while furnishings in the cabin will clean and repair themselves as the result of advantages like dirt-repellent coatings and self-healing covers.

Fairey Swordfish—Lima-Sierra 326; it was one of these aircraft that stopped the German battle cruiser Bismark.

while home. The culminating display of flight would have been emotionally stirring to those who remembered the Spitfire’s gallant stand against the might of the German Luftwaffe during The Battle of Britain, but the static ground display was equally stirring and a feast to the eyes. History was in abundance at every glance. The 1945-built Boeing B-17G Flying Fortress, Sally B. The ground display enclosure had direct access to one of the active runways and so it was holder that achieved 655 kilometres per a natural and perfect setting for viewhour in 1931. This was the very early preing the Goodwood Revival criteria of curser to the iconic Spitfire, which was also “excellence.” designed by Mitchell. Reginald Mitchell’s Schneider trophyA wonderful recreation of the Spitfire winning S6B float plane was the key prototype K5054, first flown by The Vickers exhibit. This was a world speed record chief test pilot Captain J. ‘Mutt’ Summers

COLUMBIA FIAT The new little Italy. “Blue &FIaT Me” has arrived! 11 Interior Colours

Starting at $99 /Bi-Weekly

0% Finance Options

49

A/C SERVICE PERFORMANCE TEST $ plus fees & taxes

FREE

INCLUDES FUEL CONSUMPTION INSPECTION Fuel-efficient and fun to drive FOR ALL MAKES AND MODELS

95

Open 7 days a week Mon – Thur 9am-9pm, Fri & Sat 9am-6pm, Sun 12-4pm

Columbia Fiat 1.877.742.4031 WE SPEAK TAGALOG, HINDI, CANTONESE, MANDARIN, TAIWANESE, SPANISH, POLISH, RUSSIAN AND JAPANESE

Royal Air Force de Havilland Dove.

the Tiger Moth in 1952, the de Havilland Chipmunk, was also on display along with the three-seater high-wing monoplane so well-favoured by many longdistance record-breakers in the 1930s, the de Havilland Puss Moth. Representing the U.S. Air Force was a wonderfully restored Boeing B 17 Flying Fortress. The American civilian aircraft on parade included a Waco UPF-7 open air trainer, a Beech Staggerwing bi-plane and a two-seater Porterfield CP50, which was once the most favoured aircraft trainer used by aero clubs. Russian and German aircraft were also in attendance, with a Yakovlev Yak C-11 and a Messerschmitt ME109f, respectively. The aircraft that I most enjoyed seeing for the first time was the Royal Fleet Air Arm Fairey Swordfish, complete with under-slung torpedo. In 1941, a squadron comprised of this type of aircraft finally stopped the German battle cruiser Bismarck in its tracks by damaging her rudder beyond repair and sending her sailing in circles until the Royal Navy’s assembled warships sank her in the Icelandic straits. Revenge no doubt for the loss of life as a result of the Bismarck’s sinking of the Royal Navy’s battle cruiser, H.M.S. Hood. C U S T O M S B R O K All E RinSall, Goodwood’s A N D Cground O N Sdisplay U LTA N was worthy of a day on its own and in the highly unlikely event that one became HEAD OFFICE / AIRPORT bored, a D.H. Tiger a Boeing Tel: (604) 278-3551 • Fax: (604Moth, 278-3291 Stearman and a de 1-800-663-4080 Havilland Dove pasB.C., Continental USA: Toll-Free senger aircraft were available for air tours. PACIFIC HIgHwAy Once again (BORDER) the annual Goodwood Tel: (604) 538-8414 • its Fax: (604)of538-8148 Revival, with display historic aircraft in the perfect setting of Lord March’s Offices in Dawson Creek • Kelowna • Osoyoos • Penticton • Vernon • Prince george estate, demonstrated why it is one of the whitehorse • Northwest Territories. most magnificent events to attend. www.summitcb.com Mark your calendars and book your flights to attend next year’s event, SERviNg ThE AviATiON iNDUSTRy September 14-16, 2012.

on March 5, 1936 was also on display and received its fair share of attention. A de Havilland Tiger Moth, the 1930s Royal Air Force (RAF) basic trainer, was on display, along with the closed-cabin high wing, Leopard Moth, which first flew in 1933. The aircraft that replaced nd

14 Exterior Colours

53

respond to the future needs of and their planet. Celebrating four decades of Airbus is already looking forw air transport might look for pa 2050 and beyond.

1931 Schneider Trophy Winner Supermarine S6B with Spitfire Prototype re-construction behind.

Plus Fees & Taxes

Come in and check out the new Fiat 500. Custom orders available. MPG

Around & About Events

This technology, which is part of Airbus’ vision of aviation in 2050, follows the 2010 unveiling of the Airbus Concept Plane that featured technologies to reduce fuel burn, emissions, waste and noise-highlighting the many features that could

Artist’s impression of an x-ray of an aircraft of the future.

Starting from $110 Bi-Weekly

5 Models

Artist’s impression of how the aircraft of 2050 will look on the outside at night courtesy Airbus.

CDs • DVDs • Records • Poste The Cool Music Store

12240 2 Ave. @ Bayview, Steveston Village 604-204-0044 www.beatmerchant.com

Summit Customs Broker CustOms & Trade Consultants BrOkers

Snowbird Retirement Seminar at YVR Speaker: Ed Rodriguez, Investment Advisor, TD Waterhouse Private Investment Advice. Place: QGolf Club, 3551 Granville Rd, Richmond, BC Time: Thursday, November 24th, 6 p.m. to 8 p.m. R.S.V.P Limited Seating: Call us (604) 482.2533 or via e-mail: ed.rodriguez@td.com Join us to explore how to fund early retirement, enhance your income and minimize your taxes. The focus of the program is to show you how to compress your retirement timeline and to provide you with a better lifestyle, with more freedom, control, and flexibility. TD Waterhouse Canada Inc. - Member of the Canadian Investor Protection Fund. ®/The TD logo and other trade-marks are the property of the Toronto-Dominion Bank or a wholly-owned subsidiary, in Canada and/or other countries. This seminar is suitable for investors with a minimum $250,000.


www.skytalkonline.com

|

NOVEMBER

Alaska Airlines launches biofuel-powered commercial service in the U.S. Starting this month, Alaska Airlines and its sister carrier, Horizon Air, will fly 75 commercial passenger flights powered by biofuel in the United States. The biofuel-powered flights will use a 20 per cent blend of sustainable biofuel made from used cooking oil that meets rigorous international safety and sustainability standards. “The 75 flights that Alaska Airlines and Horizon Air will fly over the next few weeks reflect our longstanding commitment to environmental responsibility and our belief that sustainable biofuels are key to aviation’s future,” said Bill Ayer, Alaska Air Group chairman. “Commercial airplanes are equipped and ready for biofuels. They will enable us to fly cleaner, foster job

growth in a new industry, and can insulate airlines from the volatile price swings of conventional fuel to help make air travel more economical. What we need is an adequate, affordable and sustainable supply. To the biofuels industry, we say: If you build it, we will buy it.” Aviation industry leaders agree that biofuels represent a critical element in cutting aviation’s carbon footprint. Alaska Air Group’s fleet of Boeing 737s and Bombardier Q400s are one of the youngest and most fuel-efficient among domestic airlines. Air Group has also led the industry with a variety of environmental projects to fly greener—from pioneering satellite-based navigation procedures to onboard recycling.

World’s Largest Bed & Breakfast Small Rooms, Small Prices

WINTER RATES:

$39.95 TO $52.95 $785 A MONTH INCLUDES

• Health Club, Jacuzzi

2011

|

SKYTALK

• 11

Aviation News

Alaska Air Group estimates the 20 per cent certified biofuel blend it is using for flights will reduce greenhouse gas emissions by an estimated 10 per cent, or 134 metric tons, the equivalent of taking 26 cars off the road for a year. If the company powered all of its flights with a 20 per cent biofuel blend for one year, the annual emis-

sions savings would represent the equivalent of taking nearly 64,000 cars off the road or providing electricity to 28,000 homes. The fuel was supplied by SkyNRG, an aviation biofuels broker, and made by Dynamic Fuels, a producer of next-generation renewable, synthetic fuels made from used cooking oil.


12 •

SKYTALK

|

NOVEMBER

2011

|

www.skytalkonline.com

Readers send their bucket lists of geographical wonders Last month, SkyTalk featured a top-10 bucket list of geographical wonders and asked readers to send in their own lists of places they would most like to visit. The following are some of the submissions. Thanks go to Geraldine Svisdahl, Kylie Varga, Larry Yap and Louise Gosselin for sending their picks.

Polar bears in Churchill, Manitoba, Canada Located on the shore of Hudson Bay in Manitoba, Canada, Churchill is most famous for the many polar bears that travel toward the shore from inland in the autumn. Tourists can safely view the polar bears from specially modified buses known as tundra buggies. October and early November are the most feasible times to see polar bears, thousands of which wait on the vast peninsula until the water freezes on Hudson Bay so that they can return to hunt the ringed seals, their primary food source. There are also opportunities to see polar bears in the non-winter months, with tours via boat visiting the coastal areas, where polar bears can be found both on land and swimming in the sea.

Icebergs off the coast of New Foundland, Canada Approximately 40,000 medium to large icebergs annually calve from Greenland glaciers, and depending on wind, and air and water temperature, between 400 and 800 of these go as far south as St. John’s, Newfoundland. Icebergs are most commonly seen in the waters off Newfoundland from March until July. Despite their size,

the icebergs of Newfoundland move an average of 17 kilometres a day. A fascinating micro ecosystem of plankton, fishes and birds thrives in the freshwater of melting icebergs. Jiuzhaigou National Park, Sichuan Province, China

Jiuzhaigou National Park is a nature reserve located in northern Sichuan province of China and is one of the country’s most visited sites. Jiuzhaigou (Valley of Nine Villages) is named after the nine ancient Tibetan villages located within the park. Famous for its picturesque almost surreal crystal clear lakes, multi-tier waterfalls and stunning mountain views, Jiuzhaigou is home to two of China’s most treasured endangered species; the Giant Panda and the Sichuan Golden Snub-Nose Monkey. Most visitors stay at one of the 20,000 hotel rooms located in the town of Jiuzhaigou and visit the park by day utilizing the park’s tour buses. These provide an efficient way to see the park as passengers can hop off, take a picture and jump back on. The non-traditional route is to stay

within the park at a Tibetan Village and hike the 30 kilometres through the park. Cliffs of Moher, Ireland The Cliffs of Moher ranks as one of the most popular tourist attractions in Ireland. These magnificent cliffs rise 120 metres above the Atlantic Ocean at Hag’s Head and reach their maximum height of 214 metres just north of O’Brien’s Tower

Puerto Princesa Subterranean River, Palawan, Philippines

some eight kilometres away. There are many animals living on the cliffs, most of which are an estimated 30,000 birds, representing more than 20 species. These include Atlantic Puffins, which live in large colonies at isolated parts of the cliffs. As of July 2009, the Cliffs were named one of 28 global finalists in the New Seven Wonders of Nature—the seven winners to be announced later this month. Cave of Crystals, Mexico The Giant Crystal cave was discovered in 2000 by miners excavating a new tunnel for a mining company located in Naica, Chihuahua, Mexico. Naica lies on an ancient fault with an underground magma chamber. The magma heated the ground water and it became saturated with minerals, including large quantities of gypsum. The hollow space of the cave was filled with this mineral-rich hot water and remained filled for about 500,000 years, which allowed the perfectly faceted crystals to form and grow to immense crystalline blocks. The caves are accessible today because the mining company’s pumping operations keep them clear of water. If the pumping were stopped, the caves would again be submerged. The crystals deteriorate in air, so visual docu-

ment of the crystals is taking place before they deteriorate further. Puerto Princesa Subterranean River, Palawan, Philippines The Puerto Princesa Subterranean River National Park, located about 50 kilometres north of the city center of Puerto Princesa, Palawan, Philippines, is one of the 28 finalists for the New Seven Wonders of Nature competition. The park has a limestone karst mountain landscape with an 8.2-kilometre navigable underground river that winds through a cave before flowing directly into the South China Sea. Visitors can cruise down the river in canoe. The cave includes major formations of stalactites and stalagmites and several large chambers. Until the 2007 discovery of an underground river in Mexico’s Yucatan Peninsula,the Puerto Princesa Subterranean River was reputed to be the world’s longest underground river. Fly out of YVR to get to one of these

Look for next month’s feature on the winners of the New Seven Wonders of Nature.

Jiuzhaigou National Park, Sichuan Province, China

Cliffs of Moher, Ireland

Cave of Crystals, Mexico

Travel Talk


www.skytalkonline.com

Düsseldorf Travel Talk provides one of the world’s best Christmas markets

One of the intricately constructed Christmas pyramids at Düsseldorf’s Christmas Market. From November 17 through December 23, the Old Town area of the German city of Düsseldorf becomes the site of one of the most successful concepts in Christmas markets. Instead of one large market, visitors find seven separate Christmas themes and attractions while strolling through the beautiful historic city centre during the holiday shopping season. The formula for the Düsseldorf’s historic Christmas Market, since it was introduced several years ago, has been attracting thousands of international visitors each holiday season. The innovative experience takes visitors through seven separate Christmas villages, each featuring a different theme, design, vendors and attractions. Themes include: An Angel’s Market, with angels and thousands of lights turning the area into a sea of light; a village of artisans working on wroughtiron, glassblowing and candlemaking; and booths that are replicas of Düsseldorf’s historic town houses. In addition, this year there will be an extensive program of family entertainment in a heated tent, an ice rink for free skating and many culinary treats for adults and children. Düsseldorf’s luxury shopping avenue Königsallee—one of Europe’s premiere high-end shopping boulevards—will be ablaze with holiday cheer, thanks to thousands of lights and decorations in the giant chestnut trees that line this elegant street. While Düsseldorf has long been a major shopping destination, visitors during the holiday season can add overnight stays for extended shopping and sightseeing. Special hotel packages are available through the city’s tourism website visitduesseldorf.de. The Düsseldorf Christmas Market is open from 11am to 8pm, Sundays to Thursdays; and 11am to 9pm, Fridays and Saturdays. For more information on Düsseldorf’s Christmas Market, visit duesseldorf-weihnachtsmarkt.de.

Checked baggage calculator eliminates guesswork

Have you ever gotten to the airport and realized it will cost more than you thought to check your baggage? You may have booked your flight and received the best fare possible, but if the cost to check your baggage has not been taken into account you may no longer have received the best deal. With that in mind, a new interactive, online baggage calculator that takes the guesswork out of airline checked baggage allowance and fee information for travellers is now available. From scuba equipment and oversized luggage to golf clubs and guitars, iflybags provides travellers with instant access to the most up-to-date airline checked baggage allowances and fees. Calculations are provided based on the specific traveller, number and weight of planned checked bags/items and airlineitinerary specific information. The user simply enters basic itinerary and bag details and the website instantly calculates baggage allowance and fees. The website will also evaluate, optimized and present the best combination o checked bags for multiple travellers on a single itinerary, taking into account traveller frequent flyer status. For example, if one traveller in a family of four has frequent flyer status and benefits from reduced checked baggage fees, iflybags will recommend that traveller check more bags than the others to save money. From Air Canada, American Airlines, Southwest Airlines to Cathay Pacific and Air France and more, iflybags accesses baggage data from more than 300 of the world’s airlines, with new carriers being added all the time. To ensure travellers have access to the most up-to-date baggage allowance and fee information, iflybags updated its site every hour. For more information, visit iflybags.com.

|

NOVEMBER

2011

|

SKYTALK

• 13


1952 Cessna l-19 bird dog – In 1950, the United States Air Force, Army and Marines began using the military variant of the 170, the Model 305, designated the L-19 and later O-1 Bird Dog by the military. It was used as a forward T A L and K reconnaissance airNOV YVr • S KairY control craft. The name Bird Dog was a result of a contest held

1480

|

of aircraft were built up from components by Leavens created in the late 1960s by US aircraft designer Jim Brothers in Toronto with total series production finishBede and introduced to the market primarily in “kit” ing at 224 in 1958. form by the now-defunct Bede Aircraft Corporation in In September 2010 there were 77 Canucks registhe early 1970s. Canada. Etered M in B Canada E R 2 with 0 1Transport 1 | w w .ws wk ywt. as lkkyot naThe ea . small, c o |mstreamlined w ll ikno en. lc ihas onm A U Gfuselage UST BD-5 bede 5 … a small, single-seat homebuilt aircraft holding its semi-reclined pilot under a large canopy,

The Seventies: Continued Expansion Major expansion of airport facilities continued in the 1970s, with new airline hangars and maintenance buildings built to serve the Boeing 747 wide-bodied jets, and an new Air Traffic Control Centre building constructed in the south area of the airport. Completion of the four-lane Arthur Laing Bridge in 1975 linked the airport direct with Granville Street. The Eighties: Deregulation In 1980, an expenditure of some $37-million was spent on major upgrades to the main terminal facilities and parking areas were doubled to accommodate up to 2,500, with shuttle bus service to and from the terminal added. In 1988, Canadian Airlines was deregulated and 45 per cent of Air Canada’s shares were sold to the public. The Nineties: Privatization of Airports

port agreement—Open Skies—provides increased flight options for travellers and greater efficiencies for air carriers.

YVR Air Traffic Control Tower.

21st Century: Pacific Gateway The start of the 21st Century saw many new additions and improvements to the airport including a two-phase, $420-million expansion of the International Terminal, and expansion of related airport infrastructure to provide more capacity of international check-in, preboard screening, Canada Customs, U.S. preclearance and baggage systems. In September 2006, an expanded air trans-

|

13

The Airbus A380 visits Vancouver. On November 29, 2006, the 555-seat Airbus A380 made its only North American stop at YVR, part of a series of four certification flights for the aircraft. On May 8, 2007, Vancouver Airport Authority opened Gate C-38, a $17-million regional commuter facility serving 30-plus destinations throughout B.C.

1993 International Terminal Building pre-load. On July 1, 1992, the not-for-profit Vancouver Airport Authority assumed control of the operation and management of YVR under the terms of a 60-year lease. In 1996, major expansions saw the completion and official openings of a new Air Traffic Control Tower in May, a new International Terminal Building in June and new north parallel runway in November.

with the engine installed in a compartment in the middle of the fuselage, and a propeller or jet engine in the BD-5J variant, mounted immediately to the rear of the cockpit. The combination of fighter-like 2 0looks 1 1 and relatively low S Kcost Y TledAtoL the K BD-5 • selling Continued on page 15 In August 2009, the Canada Line automated light rail system connecting Vancouver to Richmond and YVR opened 15 weeks ahead of its original schedule and well in advance of the 2010 Winter Olympics.

The Link Building connects the Domestic and International terminals, while increasing YVR’s passenger, gate and ticketing capacity. Photo: Michael Sherman.

Kids pose at the Haida Gwaii sculpture with two of the mascots from the 2010 Winter Olympics. In February 2010, YVR played a key role in hosting the 2010 Olympic and Paralympic Winter Games, providing the critical first impression and final memory of Vancouver. The airport experienced its busiest day on March 1, 2010, when 37,000 passengers departed and some 77,000 pieces of luggage handled. Going Forward YVR served 16.8-million passengers in 2010, facilitated 293,877 takeoffs and landings and handled more than 228,000 tonnes of cargo, a far cry from the approximately 3,200 air traffic passenger statistics in 1931. YVR was named in the top three North American airports for the last four years in the annual Skytrax World Airport Survey, placing first in 2011 and 2010, second in 2008 and third in 2009. Going forward, the Airport Authority has developed a Land Use and Master Plan to 2027, when 33-million passengers are expected through YVR. The Master Plan includes information about forecasts, planning approach used, stakeholder feedback received and the Airport Authority’s recommendations to accommodate projected volumes through the planning horizon.

In 2008, the three-year construction of the Link Building connecting the Domestic and International terminals was completed.

Canada Line YVR Station.

Aerial photo shows present-day expansion of YVR.

Murray Latta Progressive Machine inc.

Congratulations to YVR on its 80th Anniversary

(In business since 1918)

Serving YVR’s Industrial Equipment needs for more than 30 years Mechanical Field installation: • Machinery installed, moved or dismantled • Installation of Passenger Loading Bridges at YVR • Installation of Baggage Handling and Screening systems at YVR Machine and Fabrication shop: • Specializing in custom machinery design and manufacture • Overhaul, repair and rebuild of all types of machinery 8717 – 132nd Street, Surrey, BC V3W 4P1 Tel: 604.599.9598 | Fax: 604.599.9592 www.mlpmachine.com


www.skytalkonline.com

|

NOVEMBER

2011

|

SKYTALK

• 15

Sir Richard Branson opens world’s first commercial spaceport Last month, more than 800 guests looked skyward at Virgin Galactic’s commercial space vehicles as they soared through the skies of southern New Mexico during the dedication ceremonies of Virgin Galactic’s new home at Spaceport America. The flight of WhiteKnightTwo and SpaceShipTwo was the highlight of a spectacular ceremony, which featured announcements of new scientific and educational customers for the world’s first commercial space line. “Today is another history-making day for Virgin Galactic,” said Sir Richard Branson, chairman Virgin Group. “We are here with a group of incredible people who are helping us lead the way in creating one of the most important new industrial sectors of the 21st century. We’ve never wavered in our commitment to the monumental task of pioneering safe, affordable and clean access to space, or to demonstrate that we mean business at each step along the way.” Branson and his children, Sam and Holly, who will be the first commercial passengers on SpaceShipTwo, officially named the world’s first purpose-built spaceline terminal as the Virgin Galactic Gateway to Space. The Virgin Galactic Gateway to Space, a combined terminal and hangar facility, will support up to two WhiteKnightTwo and five SpaceShipTwo vehicles. In addition, The Gateway will house all of the company’s astronaut preparation and celebration facilities, a mission control center, and a friends and family area. There is also space committed to public access via the planned New Mexico Spaceport Authority’s Visitor Experience. New Mexico Governor Susana

In Memoriam

Martinez participated in the dedication ceremony with U.S. Congressman Steve Pearce, representing New Mexico’s 2nd District. Virgin Galactic CEO and president George Whitesides said the company continues to make excellent and unequalled progress. “Flight testing by prime contractor Scaled Composites is progressing very well, with 30 SpaceShipTwo flights and 75 WhiteKnightTwo flights to date,” said Whitesides. “We are also recruiting aggressively and assembling a highly talented and accomplished workforce focused on safe commercial operations led by vice president of operations Mike Moses, who will run our efforts at the spaceport.” In addition, the company is taking steps to expand its mission beyond commercial space tourism. The company announced last week that it had been awarded a contract under NASA’s Flight Opportunity Program for research flights to a potential value of $4.5m. During the ceremony, it was announced that new flight reservations have been made by research and education institutions to support research initiatives and inspire students. Purdue University, Space Florida, the Challenger Center for Space Science Education and Southwest Research Institute were recognized as the most recent participants in this new growth area for Virgin Galactic. A total of more than 450 future astronauts worldwide have signed on to join Virgin Galactic for a voyage into space. Tickets cost $200,000 and deposits start from $20,000. Virgin Galactic has accredited space agents worldwide, who have been specially selected and trained to handle all aspects of the spaceflight reservation. To book your space voyage, contact Andrew Mortimer-Lamb in Vancouver at 604-617-6480.

SpaceShip Two (central fuselage) and its mothership, White Knight Two, were centre stage at Virgin Galactic Gateway to Space in New Mexico last month.

In typical Branson style, the unveiling ceremony concluded with Sir Richard and his children rappelling from the front of the striking new building to a champagne splash. Photos: Mark Greenberg, courtesy Virgin Galactic.

Are You Flying?

WESTERNDRIVER.COM

R/C Planes & Helicopters

FORTIN: Luc - Beloved husband of Dagne (nee Rayson), father of 16-month-old Katelyn and loving son of Karl and Lucette Glackmeyer, of Montreal, died suddenly on October 27, 2011. Luc’s career as a pilot took him worldwide; an enthusiastic outdoorsman, he loved to explore off-road, camp, downhill ski, and mountain bike. Luc was happiest in the mountains, working on his 4Runner, or preparing a gourmet meal for family and friends, and planning the next adventure. Luc’s true passion was his family and his devotion to Dagne and Katelyn. A Celebration of Life was held for Luc on Thursday, November 3, 2011 at the Seymour Golf Club: 3723 Mt. Seymour Parkway, North Vancouver. The Fortin family has set up a trust fund for Katelyn. Donations can be made to: The Dagne and Katelyn Trust Fund at TD Canada Trust, Bank 004, Transit 9400, Account No. 6432293. For information email: inmemoryofluc@shaw.ca.

Grand NEW! Turbo Motors • Low Amp Draw • High Power Blue Sky Motors • Extra Power • Reliable with Performance Tipple • Fast Charge Li/Po Batteries Mini Servo Motors • Lightweight • Economical ESCs • Quick Response

Available at these stores:

RC Pit Stop 902-6339 200th St., Langley, BC 604-530-5490 www.rcpitstop.com One Stop Hobbies 33228 S Fraser Way, Abbotsford, BC 604-852-6497 www.onestophobbies.com Burnaby Hobbies 5209 Rumble St, Burnaby, BC 604-437-8217 BC Shaver & Hobbies 742 Fort St, Victoria, BC 250-383-0051 www.bcshaver.com Magic Box Hobbies 2105 West 37th Ave, Vancouver, BC 604-264-1746 AVF Hobbies 1620 Dundas St. East, London, ON 519-451-1833 www.avfrc.com

For more info call Dave • EMAX HOBBY 604.272-3677

The Premiu m

Place to B

uy

Your Next V or Sell eh • Pre-Owne icle d • Classics • Trucks • Cars


16 •

SKYTALK

|

NOVEMBER

2011

|

www.skytalkonline.com

Protect yourself before heading south

Money Matters

By Peter Kutney The strong loonie and a continuing housing crisis in the United States have many more Canadians heading south to the U.S. this winter. But in the rush to cash in on deals south of the border, it’s easy for newly-minted snowbirds to skip over a number of important financial issues. Don’t be one of them. Update your passport. The first step snowbirds should take is to clarify their residency status in the United States since this will determine how the U.S. government will welcome and tax them. Regardless of the length of your stay, this is the first year that you’ll need a valid Canadian passport to cross the border. Some countries require that your passport be valid for an additional six months beyond your date of entry. But

U.S. Customs and Border Protection has recently waived this stipulation providing your passport doesn’t expire until after you complete your stay in the U S. Clarify your status. If you are staying more than a few weeks, you will need to bring documentation to show U.S. border officials where you will be staying and for how long. The Canadian Snowbird association suggests carrying copies of the following documents: assessment notice from tax return, bank and investment account statements, house deed or lease agreement and a travel insurance policy with a termination date. The rules governing residency are complicated, so if your stay will be measured in months rather than weeks or it involves buying property, be sure to talk to a law-

…because your pet deserves a vacation, too!

20 49

Suites $ starting from: Classic Cat

$

Classic Dog

• Dog Boarding • Cat boarding • Daycare 7am-10pm • One hour of daily walks included • Certified pet first aid/CPR staff • Open 7 days a week

Located at the Vancouver International Airport

604.238.PETS (7387) • www.jetpetresort.com

yer familiar with cross-border tax planning, warns Douglas Gray, author of The Canadian Snowbird Guide. Watch out for taxes. As a rule of thumb, providing you spend no more than four months in the U.S., in any calendar year, U.S. taxes likely won’t be an immediate concern. But there are exceptions. To see where the IRS draws the line, take all of the days you spent in the U.S. during the current year, add one-third of the days you were there in the previous year, plus one-sixth of the days spent in the U.S. during the year before that. If that number equals 183 or more, you may have to pay some U.S. taxes. One way around all this is to file IRS Form 8840 to apply for a “closer connection” exemption. This allows you to declare that you have a primary tax and residency connection to Canada, indicated by items such as a home, driver’s license and bank accounts here in Canada. As a non-resident alien, you can still expect to be taxed on any income you earn in the U.S. If you’re renting out your hideaway in the off-season, for instance, you’ll be expected to settle up with the IRS, including withholding taxes on your rental income and, in certain circumstances, U.S. estate taxes. The good news is that you’ll usually

be protected from double taxation through Canada’s foreign tax credit. Update your will. You should have a valid will in place before leaving the country. While there’s no need to draw up a second one in the U.S.—even if you do own property there—be sure your Canadian will is up to date, referencing any out-of-country assets and how you would like them to be disposed. Older snowbirds in particular should also ensure that a trusted family member has power of attorney (POA) to handle their affairs. There are two types of documents to consider: medical powers of attorney, which appoint someone else to make decisions about medical care if you can’t speak for yourself; and those that focus on other areas like real estate or investments. Generally, you’ll want to have both in place. Unfortunately, POAs drawn up in Canada may not be valid in some U.S. states so it’s important to have one drawn up by a lawyer in the jurisdiction in which you’re vacationing, Gray warns. Hedge the currency. Make sure your money—at least the day-to-day accounts— is balanced proportionately between U.S. and Canadian investments, roughly in line with the amount of time spent in each

country. While you’re in the U.S., you’ll draw from your U.S. investments and from your Canadian accounts when in Canada. This way, you won’t have to worry so much about the Canadian dollar pulling back from its current “par” value. Get some medical insurance. Be sure to take stock of any health coverage you may already have either through a workplace/ pension provider or your provincial health care system, and then buy additional insurance to cover any potential shortfalls. The cost of out-of-country medical insurance depends on several factors including your age and health, the duration of the trip and the extent of the coverage and deductible amount. If you have an existing medical condition, purchase your insurance as soon as possible after booking the trip. Waiting longer than a week or two might mean you can’t get coverage for any emergencies arising from the condition. Peter Kutney is a financial planner with Investment Planning Counsel in Vancouver. He can be reached at 604-438-1603 or at pkutney@telus.net.

Retirement in Paradise: Research the tax implications By Ed Rodriguez Jr. It is another rainy morning in November and in Vancouver most people have had to turn on the heat as the mercury drops below 10 degrees centigrade—although the mercury would have to drop much more for most Canadians to be reminded that winter is around the corner. As we approach December the telltale signs of winter frost, changing colours on the foliage and shorter days are becoming visible across Canada. Over the past few months, I have had the privilege of talking to a lot of Canadian snowbirds who venture to a warmer location in the winter, some in RVs and others to their second homes. The common misconceptions shared by many of them are the rewards associated with the purchase of cheap property in the U.S. While the purchase of a U.S. vacation or rental property has become very

appealing, due to the combination of the mortgage crisis and the stronger dollar, Canadians should consider the complex personal income and estate tax implications that can be triggered by such event. According to James Sherb, Western Canada director at the Canadian Snowbird Association, the main challenge for Canadian snowbirds in the U.S. are new taxes that sun-belt states are considering levying on Canadians. The rule of “Let the buyer beware,” or caveat emptor, comes to mind and translates into buyers doing their homework before acting upon any deal that is too good to be true. Given the lack of consensus to deliver a credible plan that addresses most of the issues plaguing the U.S. economy, Canadians should exercise caution before purchasing any U.S. real estate.

For Canadian snowbirds considering retirement abroad, alternative areas to the U.S. include jurisdictions across Latin America. At the top of my list are Costa Rica, Belize and Uruguay. All of these countries provide first-class public services at affordable prices, combined with the comforts to which Canadians are accustomed and, in many cases, at lower tax rates. Hasta la vista amigos. Ed (Eduardo) Rodríguez Jr. is an investment advisor with TD Waterhouse. He can be reached at 604.482.2533 or email Ed.rodriguez@td.com.

The problem with clutches

Car Maintenance

By Bernie Pawlik

Summit Customs Brokers Customs & Trade Consultants Brokers

C U S T O M S B R O K E R S A N D C O N S U LTA N T S HEAD OFFICE / AIRPORT Tel: (604) 278-3551 • Fax: (604 278-3291 B.C., Continental USA: Toll-Free 1-800-663-4080 Pacific Highway (Border) Tel: (604) 538-8414 • Fax: (604) 538-8148 Offices in Dawson Creek • Kelowna • Osoyoos • Penticton • Vernon • Prince George Whitehorse • Northwest Territories.

www.summitcb.com S er v i n g the A v i at i on Industr y

“Are you sure that the clutch is my problem? The last time I had one wear out there was an awful smell in my car.” These comments, from the owner of a 1997 VW GTI with a broken clutch, caused me to reflect on the different ways in which clutches fail. The clutch is the connection between the engine and the manual transmission. A clutch’s main components are the disc, pressure plate and flywheel—the disc is sandwiched between the pressure plate and flywheel. The most common component to wear out on the clutch is the disc, which is primarily composed of a friction material similar to that found on brake pads. Over time, as this material wears, the clutch slips when engaged, resulting in a horrible smell in the vehicle. Additionally, when the car is revved and the transmission is put into gear and the clutch released, the vehicle may barely move. Other problems that occur with the clutches include the cracking of the pressure plate and breakage of the disc, which causes the clutch to jam. These concerns

often occur suddenly, resulting in the clutch not being able to release the engine from the transmission. Other problem areas are oil leaks onto the clutch disc, which can cause slippage and a broken clutch cable or hydraulic cylinder leak. Broken cables are usually the least expensive clutch repair, since all parts are located externally. However, only a few cars use cables. Hydraulic cylinders are also located externally in most cases and are frequently less expensive to repair than a complete clutch repair. Proper driving habits will aid in the care of your clutch. Here are some tips: 1. When not shifting gears, keep your foot off the clutch pedal. 2. Do not hold your vehicle on a hill with

the clutch. 3. Make all gearshifts and clutch engagements quickly and smoothly. If you follow these driving habits, the only maintenance service your clutch will require is to flush the clutch fluid every two to three years—if our vehicle is so equipped. Bernie Pawlik is the owner of Pawlik Automotive on Southwest Marine Drive. He can be contacted at 604-327-7112.


10 •

www.skytalkonline.com SKYTALK

|

AUGUST

2011

|

|

www.skytalkonline.com

NOVEMBER

2011

|

SKYTALK

• 17


18 •

SKYTALK

|

NOVEMBER

2011

|

www.skytalkonline.com

Classified

CONSUMER | COMMERCIAL

Tel: 604 736-6754 •  Fax: 604 736-6750 E-mail: jstewart@westerndriver.com

49,000 Readers Every Month | $17.50 Per Col Inch EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITIES B & B ACCOMMODATION

AVIATION TRAINING

Line Service/Refueler Million Air is currently seeking a customer focused, responsible, and enthusiastic individual to join our team in Line services. Location: Richmond, BC

START YOUR FUTURE WITH SERVISAIR!

PRESENTLY HIRING FOR AIRLINE RAMP AGENTS

Status: Full-Time (after 3 months probation)

GREAT EMPLOYEE REFERRAL PROGRAM EARN UP TO $1000.00

Responsibilities: s Ensure positive experiences for all Million Air partners & clients

Ability to work in adverse weather conditions Shift work, 24 hour operation Offloading and Loading baggage and cargo Operate ground support equipment Training program provided

s Ensure work area is maintained to Million Air’s standards s Clearly and accurately report any information pertaining to aircraft fuelings

If you describe yourself as a team player, enthusiastic, possess a high level of integrity and the willingness to make a significant contribution, we invite you to apply for this career opportunity. Please FAX your résumé to Million Air 604-273-6629

EMAIL YOUR RESUME TO: yvr.hr@am.servisair.com You must be a Canadian citizen or landed immigrant-IM1000 or Permanent Resident. Hold a valid Class 5 BC Drivers License and have your own means of reliable transportation

Comfortable accommodation, with special discounts for airline personnel. Five minutes from airport, in Richmond. Free pick-up to and from airport. Phone Penny or Ross (604) 273-1198 E-mail: chestnuttree@shaw.ca

HEALTH & BEAUTY

W&Q Beauty Center

Accelerated Aviation Training

Unit 130 – 5980 Miller Road YVR International Airport (Just 50 m. S. of “Sea Island Centre” on Canada Line. SkyTrain service is FREE between main terminal & Sea Island Centre)

Tel. 604-279-0179 • www.AcceleratedAviation.com

Select two items below from only $49.80:

SERVICES - PROFESSIONAL

• W/Q Facial • Manicure • Foot Massage • Eyelash Perm

Michael J. Culhane BSc BA LLB ATPL Barrister & Solicitor info@culhane.ca 604.279.0179

• Back Massage • Face Waxing • Eyebrow Tinting • Pedicure

(all services are non-sexual)

Full Body Massage Only $38

604-321-8296

Open everyday 9:30am-9pm 8148 Cambie Street at Marine Drive Station

(Only 10 mins. from YVR Station, 15 mins. from Waterfront Station)

WEBSITE

FOR RENT - OFFICE SPACE

westerndriver.com

Office Space Available

AUTOMOBILES FOR SALE

At YVR’s most desired location – Landmark Aviation

SIGNATURE MAZDA EXCLUSIVE 2012 MAZDA 3 GS LUXURY PACKAGE 0 DOWN 0 SECURITY

Bed & Breakfast

EXCELLENT BENEFITS PACKAGE · FULL HEALTH · TRAVEL PERKS · UNIFORM · PARKING

s Work effectively as a team with your Managers & Co-Workers.

Chestnut Tree

Prime, executive office space available at Landmark Aviation located on the beautiful south-side of Canada’s finest airport - YVR. Offered at very competitive rates, with breathtaking views & an on-site business centre – a first-class presidents lounge & boardroom facility with 24/7 security.

$

299/mo.

Loaded with Leather, Heated Seats, Power Group, Rain Sensing Wipers, Dusk Sensing Headlights, DSC, TSC and much more. VERY LIMITED SUPPLY • COME IN OR CALL TODAY 604-278-3185 2 STORES: On-Line and in the Richmond AutoMall www.signaturemazda.com

Many different office sizes and rent/term options. Enquiries, please contact Scott at sharrold@landmarkaviation.com 604.818.9904 or jwang@landmarkaviation.com 604.279.9922


www.skytalkonline.com

Name that Aircraft

Send the correct name of this aircraft (make and model) and you could win a

Golf for Two (Green Fees) at QGolf Club, Richmond. Send your answer by: Email jstewart@westerndriver.com; Fax (604) 736-6750; Mail 306-5400 Airport Road South, Richmond, BC V7B 1B4.

A draw will be made from all correct entries received by November 30, 2011. The winner’s name will be published in the December edition of SkyTalk and at www.skytalkonline.

Peg Strandt Answer: Bell 222

Last month’s winner:

The Bell 222 is a twin-engined light helicopter built by Bell Helicopter. It incorporated a number of advanced features including dual hydraulic and electrical systems, stub wings housing the retractable landing gear, and a Noda Matic vibration reduction system.

VACATION PROPERTY for rent

MEXICO VACATION PROPERTY FOR RENT

Rent a family vacation home by the beach in the picturesque fishing village of Sayulita, Mexico. Located just 45 minutes north of the Puerto Vallarta airport, Sayulita’s blend of beaches, shops, restaurants & activities makes it the perfect destination for a Mexican Vacation. The home has 3 bedrooms with private bathrooms and sleeps up to 8 people. Great for a family or group of friends. The house is in a complex with other vacation homes and has a shared pool and beachfront courtyard. You can rent the whole house or individual rooms. ••• Rental rates are as follows: High Season (Nov.1 to May 31) Entire House: Daily $150; Weekly $875; Monthly $3,000 Individual Rooms: Daily $75; Weekly $450; Monthly $1,500 ••• Low Season (Jun.1 to Oct. 31) Entire House: Daily $100; Weekly $525; Monthly $1,500 Individual Rooms: $50; Weekly $275; Monthly $750

For further details, photos and reservations, please contact Richard (250) 924-8479; richardgraham@shaw.ca

|

NOVEMBER

2011

ACROSS

Trees of the genus Ulmus Detection by means of radio waves 10 Ancient France 14 Got 15 French novelist _____ Zola (1840-1902) 16 Ploy 17 A bell morel mushroom 19 Pale grey 20 Health Maintenance Organization 21 Ice surface 22 Medium-sized hairy moths 24 The beginnings of a plant 25 Urge 26 Kidney-shaped nut 29 An emetic 30 Eurasian primrose 31 Group of bass singers 32 Indoleacetic acid 35 Aluminum (abbrev.) 36 Organic constituent of soil 37 Chilled 38 Garland 39 Apparels 40 Home 41 A very hot pepper 43 A sweet dark purple plum 44 In perfect circumstances 46 A genus of crab 47 A man who is supported by a woman to provide sex 48 Strike with one’s foot 49 Utilize 52 Muslim prayer leader 53 Aeronautical test facility (2 words) 56 Clog shoes 57 Lament 58 Sweetened diluted fruit drinks 59 Angers 60 A wooden pin 61 Drill 1 Engrave 2 Weaving machine 3 Single-channel 4 Propel oneself over snow on narrow pieces of metal 5 A subsequent examination 6 Improve or change 7 Dagger 8 High mountain 9 State of being actual 10 Italian brandy 11 Favorable 12 Doorkeeper 13 An island in the Philippines 18 Move stealthily 23 Spore sacs 24 Thin wedge 25 Battle between the successors of Alexander the Great 26 Bituminous solid fuel

AUTOS FOR SALE 2008 Lexus ES 350 Premium, Navigation pkg, backup camera, Tungsten Pearl/ Black leather, only 83,396 k’s, STK#P1274, $27,972 2008 Lexus RX 350 Touring,

Navigation, 4WD, luxury SUV, Breakwater Blue Metallic/ Black leather, only 28,336k’s, STK#P1276, $38,883

2008 Lexus LS460 Technology, V8, Auto, Smoky Granite Mica/Light Grey Leather, Navigation, only 26,561k’s, Stk/ P1277, $48,753.

604-273-5533 WWW.OPENROADLEXUS.COM

5666 Minoru Blvd., Richmond, BC

SKYTALK

• 19

CrossWord

1 5

DOWN

|

27 Shaft on which a wheel rotates 28 Penstock 29 Metrical units 31 Muscular build 33 As well 34 City in Yemen 36 Consecrated 37 Deep prolonged unconsciousness 39 A liquid measure equal to 4 or 5 ounces 40 Japanese poetry style 42 Leafless East Indian vine 43 Finger or toe 44 A semitic deity 45 Anagram of “Mired” 46 Gnat 48 Had firsthand knowledge 49 Take apart or take back

50 Fortune teller 51 Consequence 54 International Labour Organization 55 Apprehend. Answers - October 2011

AIRPORT SERVICE

we’re

here for

you!

Vancouver Airport Chaplaincy a Quiet Place... ...for quiet reflection, prayer, meditation ...to relax, listen to music, eat your lunch, read a book. a Safe Place...

Please visit us on International Arrivals Level 1, or contact us by phone: (604) 303-3010 or email: ldaggett@shaw.ca | www.yvrchaplain.com AUTOS FOR SALE 1967 JAGUAR MK 2

Probably the most original two-owner example to be found anywhere. Beautiful condition inside and outside. No rust, original everything, except paint and carpets. 110,000 miles (documented), ex-California (registration and plate), all service receipts available. Comes with original auto transmission and a reconditioned manual gearbox with all attachments should you want to convert. Serviced at the same Jaguar shop for the past 25 years. All receipts available. Class winner in many shows over the years. $19,850.00. Call 604.644.9067.


20 •

SKYTALK

|

NOVEMBER

2011

|

www.skytalkonline.com

Neighbourhood Restaurant Guide Breakfast | Lunch | Dinner

4

Try something different today for breakfast, lunch or dinner. The following restaurants are at or within five minutes from YVR, and most offer airport employee discounts. from the grill and desserts—Level 3 Departures. • Wok ‘N Roll: Chinese & Japanese cuisine – Level 3 Departures International (Before Security) • Hanami Japanese Restaurant: Dim Sum & Japanese cuisine-Level 3 Departures • Koho Restaurant & Bar: Casual diningLevel 3 Departures • Galiano Bakery & Café: Breakfast, sandwiches & pastries-Level 3 Departures • Burger King: Breakfast, burgers, salads -Level 2 Arrivals & Level 3 Departures • Flying Wedge Pizza: Pizza, salads & soups-Level 3 Departures • Fortune Wok: Asian cuisine – Level 3 Departures • Tim Hortons: Coffee, pastries, sandwiches, soup – Level 2 Arrivals • Toshi Teppanyaki: Japanese cuisine – Level 3 Departures

Airport South • Airside Café New Management, New Menu (opposite Million Air) 350-5400 Airport Road South, Richmond, BC airsidecafe@gmail.com YVR’s only restaurant with a view ofaircraft maintenance! BREAKFAST & LUNCH MON-FRI: 8am to 4pm Airside Breakfast $4.99 2 eggs, 2 sausages or ham or bacon Airside Lunch from $3.99 Soups * Salads * Burgers & Fries * Sandwiches * Daily Specials. • The Flying Beaver Bar & Grill 4760 Inglis Drive. Located on the water, inside Harbour Air Seaplanes Terminal, near Vancouver Airport South. Incredible location, great food, good service & good value. Open 7 days per week 11am to midnight, weekend breakfast from 9am. (604) 273-0278. • The Sideslip Café #100-5360 Airport Road South. Located at Esso Avitat. Open 6am-10:30am

1

for breakfast and until 3pm for lunch. Serving homemade soups, sandwiches & paninis & daily specials. Fresh baked pastries, organic tea & coffee. Also serving Espresso, Cappuccino, Latte, Chai Tea, Frappuccino, Iced Tea and Fruit Smoothies. Take out & catering. (604) 303 SLIP (7547) • Skyway Restaurant (YVR South Terminal) #118-4440 Cowley Crescent. Breakast, lunch. (604) 231-9822

NEW OWNERSHIP & MANAGEMENT

*20% off

All food orders when you show work ID

FOOD & DRINK

Christmas Gift Certificates are great Stocking Stuffers! $25 for $20 $50 for $40 $75 for $60

The Coffee WEll is now OPEN

CANADA LINE

5

OVER THE BRIDGE(S) 4 Mr. Pickwick’s Fish & Chips 8620 Granville Street, Vancouver Lunch, dinner, British pub foods & fresh seafood. 11am- 8:30pm. (604) 266-2340 2 Shark Club 10253 St. Edwards Drive, Richmond (next to Sandman Signature Hotel) As the day progresses so does the atmosphere at Shark Club. Come for a casual lunch, happy hour drinks or catch your favourite team on our big screens. When the weekend arrives enjoy a nice dinner and then hit the dance floor. 7 Days a week, 11am-2am. (604) 276-2609 5 The Suburban Well Food & Drink #108-5188 Westminster Highway (corner of Westminster & Tiffany) New management and ownership. Unique menu that includes fresh handmade burgers, salads and appetizers. Craft beers made by Phillips Brewery of Victoria. Present your work ID for 20% off. (604) 244-8500 • The Boathouse Restaurant 8331 River Road, Richmond Lunch, dinner. 11am-10pm. (604) 273-7014

Sincerely, The Suburban Well Team

5

www.thesuburbanwell.com

Look for us on Facebook under “The Suburban Well Food & Drink” #108-5188 Westminster Hwy, @Tiffany Road (Halfway between No.1 & 2 Road)

604.244.8500

*regular priced items only

World Famous Fish (Always Wild) & Chips LUNCH SPECIAL

$4.98

NEW : Cod Burger, Chips & Coleslaw...$7.98 DAILY: 1 piece Cod, Oyster & Chips w/tartar lemon dill sauce....$9.98 DAILY: New England-style Chowder

First establishment in Richmond offering ROLLING ROCK extra pale ale. You are invited to be part of this new beginning and we welcome you to come down as we are excited to meet our neighbours.

4

Weekdays 11am-2pm... 1 piece Cod & Chips, Coffee or Tea

Brand new ownership and management ready to offer you a great experience with our unique menu including fresh handmade burgers, salads and appetizers.

2

6

Sunday Brunch 10am

W

Call to Book your Christmas Party now!

1

CANADA LINE

MAIN TERMINALS Domestic (Before Security) • Starbucks: Coffee, pastries, sandwichesLevel 3 Departures • A&W: Breakfast served daily – Bacon ‘n Egger with real bacon and real eggs, hash browns, French Toast. Also, hamburgers, fries, beverages, including A&W’s famous root beer. Open 5am-10pm. Level 3 Departures. • Harvey’s: Breakfast, burgers -Level 3 Departures • Jugo Juice: Juice, smoothies, wraps & paninis – Level 3 Departures • Subway: Sandwiches, salads & wrapsLevel 3 Departures • Swiss Chalet: Rotisserie chicken-Level 2 Arrivals • Tim Hortons: Coffee, pastries, sandwiches, soups-Level 2 Arrivals & Level 3 Departures • Toshi Teppanyaki: Japanese cuisine – Level 3 Departures • White Spot: Burgers, fresh salads, pastas, rice bowls, stir-fries, entrées

3

Show your YVR ID & Get 10% Off*

Open daily 11am to 9pm 8620 Granville St @ 70th, Vancouver

604-266-2340 *Granville location only www.mrpickwicks.bc.ca

RICHMOND Hotel Restaurants • Best Western Abercorn Inn 9260 Bridgeport Road • Highlander Restaurant: Open for lunch & dinner, serving a variety of high-quality continental and world cuisine. Lunch 10:30am-2pm; dinner 5pm-9:30pm. (604) 270-7576. • Delta Vancouver Airport 1500 Cessna Drive 3 Pier 73 Restaurant: Located behind the hotel and suspended above the Fraser River in the heart of a 138-slip Marina. Great destination for casual lunch meetings, relaxed dinner gatherings, or evening drinks with friends. Kids Menu. Sunday to Thursday 11am-12am. Friday and Saturday 11am-1am (kitchen open until midnight). (604) 968-1178 1 The Fairmont Vancouver Airport (at YVR) –3111 Grant McConachie Jetside Bar: Level 3 International Departures – offers a selection of appetizers, snacks, and shared food. (604) 248.3281 Globe@YVR: Award-winning signature restaurant, open for breakfast, lunch, dinner, and featuring a special holiday menu. (604) 248-3281 • River Rock Casino Resort 8811 River Road The Buffet – breakfast 6:30am-10:30am, lunch 11am-2pm, dinner (604) 247-8573 The Buffet at River Rock – 7 mins. by Canada Line to all you can eat buffet, lunch, dinner, Sunday brunch or Breakfast $14.95. Newly renovated, The Buffet at River Rock highlights fresh local produce & offers culturally diverse & traditionally inspired dishes with complimentary selected beverages. (604) 247-8900 • Sandman Signature Hotel 10251 St Edwards Drive Denny’s – breakfast, lunch, dinner. (604) 276-2853 Chop Steak Fish Bar – casual dining. (604) 276-1180 • Sheraton Vancouver Airport Hotel 7551 Westminster Highway


|

www.skytalkonline.com

• Harold’s Bistro & Bar – breakfast, lunch, dinner. Full menu of contemporary cuisine, wide selection of award-winning B.C. wines, beers on tap and spirits. Open 6:30am-11pm. (604) 233-3969 • Vancouver Airport Marriott Hotel 7571 Westminster Highway The American Grille—American cuisine enhanced with regional flavours. Open for breakfast, lunch & dinner. Open 6am-10pm. (604) 232-2804 • The Westin Wall Centre, Vancouver Airport 3099 Corvette Way The Apron – minutes away from Vancouver International Airport & nestled on the banks of the Fraser River. For reservations, call (604) 238-2105. STEVESTON 6 Paesano’s 250-12240 2nd Avenue @ Bayview Steveston’s one and only Italian restaurant, celebrating 30 years of serving authentic Italian cuisine. Open daily at 11:30am. Reservations recommended. (604) 270-9252. • Steveston Seafood House 3951 Moncton Street Celebrating 32 years of fine dining and seafood specialties. Special winter 4-course menu. Dinner from 5:30pm.

(604) 271-5252 The Market at Papi’s 12251 #1 Road Next door to The Burger Bar, located behind Papi’s.Specializing in gourmet Mediterranean fresh food to go. Claudette Piacenza is the Market at Papi’s proprietor and operator. Her love and passion for Italian culture and foods are evident in the wide variety and selection of the ever-growing inventory in the market. Her passion for her endeavour is exemplified on a day-to-day basis to all of the markets regulars and newcomers. Drop by the market Monday through Saturday to see what is new, trendy and fresh. Hours of Operation: Monday to Saturday, 10am-6pm. (604) 277-7444. Yokohama Teppanyaki Sushi & Steakhouse 140-12251 No. 1 Road Authentic Japanese cuisine served at their Teppan Grill, where your dinner is cooked to perfection right before your eyes. Open Mon. to Fri. 10am to 10pm. Weekends 11am to 9:30pm. (604) 271-8896.

NOVEMBER

2011

|

SKYTALK

• 21

Next issue deadline for

Restaurant Feature is November 30, 2011. call 604.736.6754

6

Steveston’s One & Only Italian Restaurant A fine, upscale dining experience. Serving authentic Italian Cuisine since 1979.

$100 Gift Certificate for only $75

Know Your Wine

Open Daily for Lunch & Dinner Book your cozy, Christmas Party now!!

604-270-9252

250-12240 2nd Avenue @ Bayview St., In Steveston Village “By the Boardwalk” R e s e r v at i o n s R e c o m m e n d e d

Beaujolais Nouveau

w w w. pa e s a n o s . c a

WE’RE ALL ABOUT

2

MAKING CONNECTIONS

Airline and YVR employees always enjoy

10% off food at Shark Club Richmond.

SPORTS • BAR • GRILL

10331 St. Edwards Drive, Richmond. 604.276.2609 Next to the Sandman Signature Hotel and Resort Must show identification. Not valid towards daily features. Not valid with any other offer. Dine-in only. 9322_SC_YVR_Skytalk_Ad_6x4.indd 1

3

Beaujolais Nouveau (pronounced bõzhõ-’la nuvõ) is a light, fruity red burgundy wine made from the Gamay grape. Produced in the Beaujolais region of France, it is fermented for just a few weeks before being released for sale on the third Thursday of November. Heavy marketing of Beaujolais Nouveau Day occurs each year, with races to get the first bottles to different markets around the world. Beaujolais Nouveau is bottled only 6-8 weeks after it is harvested and the wine’s youth is reflected in its purple-pink colour. Beaujolais Nouveau owes its easy drinkability to a winemaking process called carbonic maceration, also called whole berry fermentation. This technique preserves the fresh, fruity quality of the wine, without extracting bitter tannins from the grape skins.

Flavours of strawberry and raspberry dominate along with a grapey appeal. The wine is recommended to be slightly chilled to 13 degrees centigrade. Beaujolais Nouveau is intended for immediate drinking and not for keeping. The wines show definite variation between vintages and are therefore eagerly anticipated as a first indicator of the quality of the year’s regional wine harvest. Close to 49-million litres of Beaujolais Nouveau are produced each year, making up nearly half of the region’s total wine production. About half of this is exported, with Germany and Japan the biggest markets, followed by the USA. Food Pairing: This wine works well with both light and dark meats. Due to its food-friendliness, this wine will also pair well with grilled or roasted meats, a variety of pastas, salads and cheeses.

7/21/11 1:03 PM

Visit Pier 73 Restaurant With Lounge & Patio On the Water Beautiful Marina Views • Fresh local Cuisine and Monthly Specials • Live Music every Thursday evening

We offer all YVR Employees

15% Discount (Proof required, show your server) Have you booked your festive celebration yet? Join us for your company party, smaller luncheons or dinners! Contact us at 604-276-1954 or pier73reservations@deltahotels.com

5 Minutes from YVR Main Terminal Complimentary Parking For reservations, contact us at pier73reservations@deltahotels.com Free airport shuttle every 20 minutes from YVR to the Delta

At the Delta Vancouver Airport Hotel 3500 Cessna Drive, Richmond, BC V7B 1C7

604.276.1954

www.deltavancouverairport.com


22 •

SKYTALK

|

NOVEMBER

2011

|

www.skytalkonline.com

Auto Dealer Guide Autowest BMW 10780 Cambie Road, Richmond 604.273.2217 www.autowestbmw.com (see ad on page 3)

OPEN ROAD Lexus 5631 Parkwood Way, Richmond 604.273.5533 www.openroadlexus.com (see ad on page 22)

BUDGET CAR SALES 1404 SW Marine Drive, Vancouver 604.261.3343 www.budgetcarsales.ca (see ad on page 11)

Richmond Subaru 3511 No. 3 Road, Richmond 604.273.0333 (see ad on back cover)

COLUMBIA FIAT 5840 Minoru Blvd, Richmond 1.877.742.4031 (see ad on page 10)

CarTalk

BUDGET CAR SALES

RICHMOND SUBARU

AUTOWEST BMW COWELL AUTO GROUP

SIGNATURE MAZDA 13800 Smallwood Place, Richmond 604.278.3185 www.signaturemazda.com (see ad on page 5, 7 & 18)

OPEN ROAD LEXUS

COWELL AUTO GROUP 13611 Smallwood Place, Richmond 1.800.252.6352 www.cowellautogroup.com (see ad on page 2)

SIGNATURE MAZDA

New rebates to help B.C. drivers plug into clean energy

The Chevrolet Volt run on electric as well as gas. Starting next month, consumers will be able to access $17-million in funding that will help get them into clean energy vehicles and support the green-tech sector in British Columbia as part of the Canada Starts Here: The BC Jobs Plan. The point-of-sale incentive program, announced by Environment Minister Terry Lake and Energy and Mines Minister Rich Coleman, begins December 1 and will provide up to $5,000 off the sticker price for qualifying new battery electric, fuel cell electric, plug-

Car Talk

The Nissan Leaf electric car was named 2011 World Car of the Year. in hybrid electric and compressed natural gas vehicles. “The point-of-sale rebate program is key to attracting new clean energy vehicles to the B.C. market,” said Blair Qualey, CEO, New Car Dealers Association of B.C. “Manufacturers are eager to launch their new electric, plug-in hybrid electric and fuel cell cars in markets that demonstrate both high demand and with infrastructure in place [and] B.C. is now one of those markets.” The new funding includes more than $6-million for new charging stations and upgrades to hydrogen

fuelling stations at existing facilities, providing owners of clean energy vehicles with more charging and fuelling options. Homeowners who want to install dedicated charging stations in their homes for their clean energy vehicles will also get a rebate of up to $500 per qualifying station. Starting immediately, $2.5-million in BC SCRAPIT Society funding will expand the already successful non-profit group’s initiative to remove high-polluting

• • • • •

vehicles from B.C. roads. These incentives are accessed via the BC SCRAP-IT website at scrapit.ca. BC SCRAP-IT Society has removed more than 30,000 vehicles from B.C. roads, resulting in a reduction of more than 200,000 tonnes of greenhouse gases. The green, clean economy is estimated to be worth almost $5.2-trillion dollars globally. Growth suggests the sector to grow between $20.1- and $27.4-billion in 2020.

24 Hour Roadside Assistance for 2 years 2-Year / 40,000K powertrain coverage Comprehensive 131-point inspection Optional “Lexus Certified Pre-Owned” extended coverage Carproof Verified

2008 Lexus LS460 Technology, V8, Auto, Smoky Granite Mica/Light Grey Leather, Navigation, only 26,561k’s, Stk#P1277, $48,753

2008 Lexus RX350 Touring Pkg.,

Phone:

(604) 273-5533 | www.richmondlexus.com

NEW VEHICLES • PRE-OWNED VEHICLES • SPECIALS • SERVICE PARTS • AUTOBODY • REPAIR

2008 Lexus ES 350 Premium, Navigation pkg, back-up camera, Tungsten Pearl/Black leather, only 83,396 k’s, STK#P1274, $27,972

Navigation, Breakwater Blue Metallic/Black Leather, V6, only 28,336k’s, Stk#P1276,

$38,883

2008 Lexus RX 350 Touring, Navigation, 4WD, luxury SUV, Breakwater Blue Metallic/Black leather, only 28,336k’s, STK#P1276, $38,883

2008 Lexus ES 350

2009 Lexus IS 250 Premium,

1 owner, pristine, Tungsten Pearl/Black leather, V6, only 52,934k’s, STK#P1222,

Moonroof, Tungsten Pearl/Black leather, AWD, immaculate, only 30,933k’s, STK#P1273, $34,843

$26,972

604.273.5533 WWW.OPEN ROAD LEXUS.COM 5660 Minoru Blvd., Richmond, BC


|

www.skytalkonline.com

NOVEMBER

2011

Lincoln MKZ Hybrid

|

SKYTALK

• 23

Car Talk

Watch your fuel savings grow By Patrick Stewart

Driving to last month’s Pacific Forest Rally, held in the back roads of Merritt’s rolling hillsides, presented the perfect opportunity to put Lincoln’s fuel efficiency claim to the test. The rally is round five of the six-stage National Canadian Rally Championship held across Canada and attracts more than 30 rally teams mainly from Western Canada, who compete in dust, gravel and mud over 10 stages for top honours in their respective classes. The close to 600-kilometre-long Vancouver-Merritt return road trip provided a great opportunity to put Lincoln’s claim to the test that the MKZ Hybrid is “the most fuel-efficient luxury sedan in America”—4.6L /100 kilometres city driving and 5.4L/100 kilometres on the highway. The emphasis in Lincoln’s claim is on luxury as that is the main difference between the MKZ Hybrid and other competitors, including the less-expensive Ford Fusion Hybrid. Compared with the conventional Lincoln MKZ, the Hybrid version has a different power train that’s based on a 2.5-litre, four-cylinder gas engine that is designed for fuel economy rather than the additional power of the V-6. According to Derek Kuzak, Ford Motor Company’s product development group vice president, Lincoln’s aim is to give shoppers a choice—an eco-friendly luxury MKZ Hybrid, or a conventional model that provides power and luxury. The good news is that pricing is the same for both models. Following in the Ford Fusion Hybrid’s footsteps, Lincoln achieves its outstanding numbers through the use of the company’s second-generation hybrid technology—a 2.5-litre Atkinson-cycle 1.4 hybrid engine, which combines the best attributes of the gasoline engine and the electric batterydriven motor to deliver optimal performance and economy. The nickel-metal hydride battery pack enables the Lincoln MKZ Hybrid to drive for short periods of up to 75 kilometres per hour. The gas engine shuts down when there is enough juice in the batteries for low-speed, all-electric drive. Those same batteries allow the 40-horsepower electric motor to send added power to the 156-horsepower gas engine when extra

power is needed for passing on the hilly Coquihalla Highway and in other driving conditions. Behind the wheel, the front-wheeldrive sedan accelerates smoothly and handles well—more to the gentle side than sporty, but not soft like the stereotype Lincoln of old. There is a definite feel of the road and braking gives no hint of the blend of regenerative and conventional systems. This big sedan is very stable up to 140 kilometres, adequate for most driving conditions. Inside, the cabin is quiet with very little engine or wind noise. The transmission shifts effortlessly and it is a credit to Lincoln’s engineers that the transfer of power from gas to elective vehicle mode goes unnoticed. Plush, eco-friendly leather-clad heated and cooled front seats with 10-way control, voice-activated Sync system providing Bluetooth phone and MP3 connectivity plus a THX11 certified 14 speaker audio system and a useful reverse sensing system, all add to the calm, relaxing driving experience. The cluster of gauges surrounding the speedometer coach drivers to achieve optimum fuel economy and lower emissions by displaying growing leaves sprouting from branches to display driving efficiencies, and a glance at the SmartGauge with EconoGuide dash display allows drivers to reap the rewards of efficient driving and get a genuine feeling of contributing to the environment, while saving money on gas. Like a video game, glancing at the display becomes somewhat addictive as drivers are urged to let up on the accelerator in an effort to ‘grow’ more greenery. Lincoln claims that within one year, efficient drivers can expect to save nearly 757 litres of gas and reduce their carbon footprint by almost two tons of CO2 emissions. My Merritt trip used only 33 litres for the 600 kms driven, confirming Lincoln’s EPA rating of 5.4 L/100 kilometres and adding to the satisfaction of a great weekend, where local rally champion Pat Richard’s Squamish-based Rocket Rally using considerable more fuel brought home first-place overall championship honours for the home team. The Lincoln MKZ Hybrid reviewed here was supplied by the manufacturer. Gas was paid for by the reviewer.

Specifications : 2011 Lincoln MKZ Hybrid 5 – passenger Engine: 2.5L 14 HEV, 4-cyclinder Power Rating: Combined gasoline engine and electric motor provide 191 net horsepower Standard Price: $42,200.

We Lease Anything & Everything 604-270-2488

Small Imports... as Low as $295/mth SUVs... as Low as $395/mth

1956 Chevrolet Bel Air Nomad Sports Wagon Own a piece of automotive history with this beauty. Recent complete body-off rotisserie restoration. Rebuilt 454 cu. In. V8 engine with mild cam. Auto trans., period correct chrome extras, American Racing Torque Thrust mag wheels. Maroon/Ivory two-tone paint. A rare and much sought after American classic car from the fifties. Asking

$38,500

2008 Mercedes Benz ML550

2010 Chrysler Sebring Limited

This luxury SUV features power leather heated seating, moonroof, alloy wheels, keyless, Navigation and more. Only 66,230 kms. Stk#2812. Asking $43,995

This luxury sedan features power windows and door locks, leather heated power seating, moonroof, woodgrain trim, steering wheel controls, chrome wheels and more. 53,000kms. Stk #305. Asking $17,322

2010 Volkswagen Jetta

2010 Dodge Grand Caravan SE This sedan features power windows and door locks with keyless entry, air conditioning, CD player with AUX port, automatic with manual mode. 36,000kms. Stk#3015. Asking $18,895

This minivan features dual row Stow’N’Go seating, power options, CD player, keyless entry, alloy wheels and more. 31,000kms. No accidents. Local vehicle. Stk #299. Asking $21,495

International Students / New Immigrants WE HELP YOU GET THE CAR YOU NEED!

604-270-2488 | 3291 #2 Road, Richmond, BC TOLL FREE 1-888-322-2488


24 •

|

SKYTALK

NOVEMBER

2011

|

www.skytalkonline.com

Huge Year-End Clearance! T H E

2 0 11

Great Finance and Lease Rates

FO R E S T E R

Proud to have 2 more inches than a Honda CR-V. ™

More ground clearance is just one of our physical attributes.

2011 Forester 2.5X

STANDARD FEATURES: • 8.7 inches of ground clearance • Symmetrical full-time AWD • 170HP BOXER engine • 5-speed manual transmission with Hill Holder system • Heated front seats • Driver and front passenger front- and side-impact airbags • AC • Vehicle Dynamics Control system and Traction Control system • And more.

The only manufacturer with 2011 IIHS Top Safety Picks for all models.▲ ALG - Residual Value Award. Best mainstream brand♦

Lease rates

Payment/mo.

48 mos., as low as for 48 mos. ***

Well equipped plus AWD from

0.9% $298 $27,945 **

*

*Model shown is a 2011 Forester 2.5X 5MT (BJ1 XO) with MSRP of $27,945 including freight & PDI ($1,525), documentation fees ($395) and battery and tire tax ($30). License, taxes, insurance and registration extra. Lease offer valid on new 2011 Forester 2.5X 5MT (BJ1 XO) models. MSRP of $25,995. Payment of **$297.08 /mo. based on a 24,000 kilometre per year lease with excess charge of $0.10/km. ***0.9% lease rate for a 48 mo. term with $2,900.00 down. Total lease obligation is $14,259.84. The residual value at the end of term is $11,437.80. Freight & PDI ($1,525), documentation fees ($395), and Battery and Tire Tax ($30), are included in payment. Lease security deposit & PPSA included. License, insurance, registration & taxes, extra. Financing and leasing programs available through Toyota Credit Canada Inc. on approved credit. Dealers may sell for less. Dealer order/trade may be necessary. **/***Offers valid until Oct. 3, 2011. See your local Subaru dealer or www.western.subarudealer.ca for complete details. Honda CR-V is a trade-mark of Honda Motor Co., Ltd. which is not affiliated in any way with this advertisement. ▲Ratings of “Good” are the highest rating awarded for 40-mph frontal offset, 31-mph side-impact and 20-mph rear-impact crash tests conducted by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) (www.iihs.org). A “Good” rating obtained in all three crash tests plus a “Good” rating in new roof strength testing and the availability of Electronic Stability Control (ESC) (Vehicle Dynamics Control) achieves a 2011 Top Safety Pick. ◆Based on ALG’s 2011 Residual Value Award for any mainstream brand.

Ad # P10900_For_Inch_A

13 SEP 11

0916

100%

FILE NAME

TRIM

DA

COLOURS

P10900_For_Inch_A.indd

11.4375" x 10.428"

kl

C

CLIENT

BLEED

AD

PIC INFO

Subaru

NA

studio

high res (NSP adjusted)

DOCKET

LIVE

PR

FONTS

tb

Avenir Next, Hel Neue Pro, Times, Zapf Dingbats

PAGE

SEPS RUN

PTO SUB P10900 DESCRIPTION

FOLDS TO

Sept Ad – “Inches”

M

Y

K

APPROVED BY BIG

AD/CD

WRITER

PROD

PROOFREAD

CLIENT

OUTPUT

1 of 1

PDFX1a

3511 No. 3 Road, Richmond • 604.273.0333 www.richmondsubaru.com

PUB

NOTES

Vancouver Sun DDB CANADA

1600 – 777 HORNBY STREET, VANCOUVER, BC, CANADA V6Z 2T3

T 604 687 7911

F 604 640 4344


Turn static files into dynamic content formats.

Create a flipbook
Issuu converts static files into: digital portfolios, online yearbooks, online catalogs, digital photo albums and more. Sign up and create your flipbook.