Discover Oak Bay - June 9, 2023

Tapas on Oak has now survived its first 9 months and would like to thank each and every customer who has tried our little restaurant. It has not been an easy time to enter the restaurant industry but as a recent addition to the Oak Bay culinary community we

hope to continue to be able to provide our tasty global tapas experience and we appreciate the support.

The plan is to change our offering slightly each month with so many fabulous small plates we can consider. We hope that locals and visitors can relax

Where the locals gather - Windsor Café

and enjoy our fine wines and our jazz-infused ‘positive red’ atmosphere.

The Victoria born owner Dan Massey personally oversaw the creation of the menu, which is based on his travels and a love for fine food, shared plates and great wines. He has a fabulous

Whether you’re in a rush for a quick coffee or cold drink or looking for an upscale bistro dining experience, our local café has something just for you – and we welcome everyone who arrives riding a bike or walking beside a dog.

Looking for a glass of pinot gris and a chance to share a mushroom bruschetta? Or sandwiches and beer? Windsor Café has local beers on tap, as well as a superb selection of wine and cider.

Enjoy a luxurious baked pastry, a gourmet drink, or a seasonal lunch menu feature in our fully licensed establishment and take a stroll down to the waterfront on a summer day. On a winter day, escape the weather with one of our warm fair-trade and organic coffees.

Our Tudor-style building features three indoor dining rooms, and two outdoor garden patios with a view of Oak Bay’s stunning Windsor Park, the best gathering spot in our community.

With the scintillating atmosphere we have created in our two-level heritage building, our café has become a destination for the entire region.

You can spend your time admiring the local and vibrant art adorning our walls while the

sounds of soft jazz echo slowly in the background, welcoming you home.

STEPS AWAY FROM THE OAK BAY MARINA

Nestled in the heart of Oak Bay, Windsor Café is just steps from the gorgeous Oak Bay Marina on scenic Beach Drive. Our location is ideal for everyone who prefers to ride a bicycle. It’s also a great area for walking your dog – and because our front patio is dog friendly, your four-legged friends will be welcomed here.

No matter the season, the oceanfront provides an idyllic setting for your Oak Bay café dining experience and a great neighborhood for bike riding and dog walking.

Come and visit us today to see just what the Windsor Café has to offer.

HOURS: Tuesday to Friday

8:30 am – 5 pm Saturday & Sunday 9 am – 5 pm Sorry, we don’t take reservations. windsorcafevictoria.ca

team including James Halliday, Trinity Turnbull, Jason Lee and Mahsa Farghadani, all of whom have been with him since day one.

BOOK NOW for Even t s P ar ties Bir thday s Call to reser ve your table 25 0 - 59 0 - 8 8 8 1 | Tapasonoak.com

3 to 7 course lunch or dinner. Reservations are recommended and are GLOB A L TA PA S / BIG W INE S 20 0 6 Oak B ay Ave V ic toria (near Foul B ay Rd ) Come visit Oak Bay’s newes t res taur ant Locally Owned and Oper ated Check our new website for hour s of oper ation

arrange a TIMES COLONIST | timescolonist.com C5 FRIDAY, JUNE 9, 2023 ADVERTISING FEATURE Fully lic ense d cafe wi th t wo patios & mul tiple dining rooms Fre sh F ood Made To Order, Organic fair trade c offe e and plent y of FREE s tre e t park ing. 2 5 4 0 W INDSOR RD ., O A K B AY | W INDSOR C A F E VIC T ORIA C A | C LOS E D MOND AY

New pharmacy regulations: Prescriptions for minor ailments, contraceptions and renewals

Fort Royal Pharmacy, with their professional staff, quick and efficient service, they strive to provide the best customer service to all their clients. They are ready to renew a prescription, make changes to an existing one, provide an emergency supply of medication, and to check the medications you are taking to make sure they're the best ones for you. Whatever your medications needs, they are here to make the process easier and smoother for you.

WHAT CAN THEIR PHARMACIST DO FOR YOU?

Some of the things their pharmacist can help you with include:

• Provide an emergency supply of medication

• Provide vaccines, such as COVID-19, flu, shingles, pneumonia, HPV, tetanus, and more

• Renew a prescription for up to 2 years

• Review your medications to make sure they’re the best ones for you

• Advise and make changes to your existing prescriptions that may not be working best for you

• Help you quit smoking and provide access to free smoking cessation products

• Provide you with emergency contraception

• Advise on over-the-counter medications and how they can impact your health

WHAT ABOUT PRESCRIBING FOR MINOR AILMENTS AND CONTRACEPTION?

Starting June 1, 2023, pharmacists in BC will have the authority to make a diagnosis and prescribe medications specified in Schedule I of the Drug Schedules Regulation, for minor ailments and contraception. These minor ailments include uncomplicated urinary tract infections (UTIs), cold sores, acne, pink eye, allergies, rashes, acid reflux, asthma, and more. Come and talk to any of our pharmacists to get more information.

Your local community based pharmacy, is here to assist you when you need it

WHAT ABOUT PRESCRIPTION RENEWALS?

In BC, pharmacists have been able to renew prescriptions, alter dosages and dispense substitute drugs to enhance patient outcomes. Today, pharmacists can now do this for a wider range of medications and renew most prescriptions for up to two years from the original prescription date if the prescription has not expired. Generally, this means a patient has been on their medication for at least six months with no changes. For example, diabetes, thyroid issues, and high blood pressure (hypertension). Prescriptions for cancer chemotherapy agents cannot be changed or renewed by a pharmacist. Come into any of their locations and talk to their pharmacist for more information. Serving the community of Greater Victoria for over 10-years, Fort Royal Pharmacy have 3 locations to serve you. They provide Free Delivery, Free Medication Reviews, Free Blister Packaging and many other services at all their locations. FortRoyalPharmacy.ca

Top Reasons to Join the Middle School at GNS

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Discover the dynamic Middle School at Glenlyon Norfolk School, where students in Grades 6 to 8 develop academically, socially and personally, and where the staff empowers them to grow into confident, independent learners. Here are some of the top reasons to consider joining our Middle School.

COMPREHENSIVE

CURRICULUM: GNS is pleased to offer the International Baccalaureate Middle Years Programme, a rich academic curriculum designed to shape our students into reflective, critical thinkers as well as confident, capable global citizens who are well-prepared to move on with confidence to their high school years. It provides students with the opportunity to engage with depth and passion in a program that builds and consolidates foundational skills and further develops advancedlevel thinking such as how to evaluate, how to apply analytical skills, and how to solve real-life problems with creativity.

HOLISTIC DEVELOPMENT: GNS believes in nurturing well-rounded individuals. Alongside academics, Middle School students have access to a diverse range of co-curricular activities. This is the perfect age for students to try new things! Our students are encouraged to take on new challenges and, at times, to move a little out of their comfort zones, secure in the knowledge that they are supported by their teachers and peers.

SUPPORTIVE COMMUNITY:

Joining GNS means becoming part of a supportive and inclusive community. The school places a strong emphasis on building positive relationships between students, teachers and parents. Middle School students at GNS experience a nurturing environment where they can make lifelong friendships, engage in community service initiatives, and receive support from a network of peers and mentors.

To learn more about the endless opportunities available for personal and academic growth for your child in our Middle School, visit: mygns. ca/middle-school

LIFE IS TOO SHORT TO WEAR BORING CLOTHES The Old Farm Market

What an amazing Spring it’s been! Summer is just around the corner, and that’s our favourite time of year. We’ve already seen beautiful Saanichton strawberries come into our stores and the Local Produce is not slowing down. In our last update, we shared how The Old Farm Market launched an exciting line of products that are made in house or locally made for us. Old Farm Market Original has become our Seal of Quality and a promise that you’ll love the product. We originally launched with a line of 8 dips, and quickly expanded to more than 20 OFM Original dips and sauces! In addition to our line of dips, we have also introduced a premium line of Canadian cheddar cheese, as well as crunchy and smooth peanut butters made for us in Sidney! More OFM Original products will be coming in regularly, so keep your eye out for that black label!

In typical Old Farm Market

style, we have even more new and exciting things to share! You can now order your groceries for delivery on Skip the Dishes! We are working hard at providing a complete offering, including fresh produce, deli, and grocery items, and are continually improving this service. We also have launched our SUMMER CENTER across from our Sandwich bar, serving Ice Cream Cones, Ice Cream Sandwiches, Smoothies, and more! But that’s not all… stay tuned for an EXPANDED flyer that will have nearly double the number of items as before, including meat and bakery items, as well as expanded offerings in our grocery department to make this even more of a one-stop-shop destination.

Come down and say hi! Our management team loves talking to our customers and hearing what they love about Old Farm and what they want to see added.

Lorna and her Bodacious Boutique team are thrilled with their larger location on Oak Bay Avenue with ample room and FREE PARKING. Originally from Vancouver, Bodacious now boasts the title of Best Selection of Curated Plus-Size Fashions on the Island! Featuring Canadian brands such as Joseph Ribkoff, Sympli, Ayrtight and their own in-house line. They also bring in the best selection of fun and funky styles from around the world including Orientique, Parsley & Sage, Grizas and Alembika.

Are you looking for something more? Bodacious can help! Beautiful linens, silks, organic cottons... What lights you up? Create your own style with ease and have fun while doing it. We’re here to help! Plus-Size fashions that celebrate your curves. Quote from a happy customer, “ I love shopping here. The staff are super friendly and helpful. I have bought some beautiful outfits here and plan to again very soon.”

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Discover OAK BAY

Jump into June with a new E-Bike! Ever thought about getting an e-bike? If so, this is for you! Now thanks to BC’s new E-Bike rebate program, getting an E-bike is more affordable than ever. This new incentive launches June 1st and provides a rebate of up to $1400 based on your income. We know that buying an e-bike can feel daunting, with so much information available, so many metrics to be compared and finding the right bike for you can feel overwhelming. We find the absolute best way to ascertain which bike is perfect for you is quite simple... ride them. Now a quick round the block spin won’t be sufficient so we have created a couple options for you. We have our no cost, no obligation Demo on Demand program where we will bring the bike to you. You can

ride it where you live for up to three days and then pick it up when you are finished with it. If you want a bit more support before you try the Demo on Demand we have our in store demo days. Our in store demo day gives you the chance to ride with a guide. Leaving from Oak Bay Bikes our staff will take you on a 8.5 km toddle to help familiarize you with the bike. You will have the opportunity to ask the guide any questions you have. Our in-store Demo day’s run on June 8th and 24th and July 8th. Sign up can be found on oakbaybikes.com Still need another nudge- most of our E-bikes are going on sale for June! So here is your nudge to take advantage of one or all of these fantastic programs! Chat with us in store or at oakbaybikes.com!

Side Street Studio is celebrating 39 years of representing Local BC Artists and Makers and their West Coast inspired work!

Currently we have over 100 Artists represented in the store and since the opening in 1986 over 600 creators have showcased their work in the Studio. We have been in this location in the heart of Oak Bay on the Avenue for 23 years!!

leaves empty handed. Whether you are searching for a keepsake during your visit or looking for that special gift we really do have something for everyone.

It has been a year since we moved our store from Fort Street to our current location on Oak Bay Avenue. Moving the store was a big decision and not one we took lightly. We had been on Fort Street for 3 years at that point and felt a part of that community, both the Fort Street gang and the downtown businesses in general. But we needn’t have worried - Oak Bay has been AWESOME! Thank you for making us feel welcome and included in the neighborhood. Thank you to our customers who followed us from Fort Street (and even earlier from Fairfield) and to all the new customers who have become regulars and friends. Thank you to our fabulous neighbors - Bark,Bath and Beyond, Divine Gem, Jojo Hair Salon and Oak Bay Cobbler - you are all rockstars!!

We are excited to announce our first VIntage Fair of the season - happening on July 29 from 10am - 3pm, both outside

the store on our driveway and inside in our back studio, We have 9 different vintage vendors coming bringing everything from vintage clothes to toys, collectibles, housewares, pyrex, furniture and much more. Make sure to mark your calendars and save the date!!

Meanwhile in the store we are bursting with all kinds of fresh colours and treasures for the Summer season! We are stocked with new oilcloth patterns, cotton nightwear and silk robes, pretty new dresses, and light cotton tunics. We also now carry a fabulous line of teas based on Literary authors - William Shakespeare tea, Jane Austen tea and Beatrix Potter tea to name a few. Regular tea tastings happen on Saturday afternoons so you can sample before you buy.

Did you know that we have an Artist of the Month program in the store? Every month a different local Victoria artist gets to hang their work just inside our

door and we promote it and sell it for them. We know how hard it can be to get work shown and are happy to foster both emerging and established artists this way. Got something you are working on? Give us a call to discuss becoming one of our Artists of the Month and let’s get you out there!

Lastly - to all the folks who are shopping in small stores like ours - thank you. Small shops and local businesses are what make Victoria interesting and vibrant but we can’t do it without you. When you choose to buy local instead of from a big store or online you are supporting a whole network of makers, artists, craftspeople, and entrepreneurs who live right in your community. They appreciate you and so do we!

Lazy Susan’s is located at 2039 Oak Bay Ave. We are open Tuesday through Saturday 10 - 6pm Our phone number is 250-412-2115

We strive, both in-store and on our extensive website (sidestreetstudio.com), to offer a really wonderful range of unique designs and prices on handmade, West Coast inspired; Jewelry, Pottery, Wood Turnings, Glass Art, Small Works, Textiles, Sculptures, Gift Cards, Photography, Metalwork, Natural Soaps, Bath Salts, Candles and much more! We have thousands of 100% locally made items to choose from and rarely a customer

I travel Vancouver Island, the Gulf Islands and to Vancouver on a regular basis visiting our artists and their studios to pick up stock for the store. Building these personal relationships and hearing their stories of where their inspiration comes from is the key in creating connections between their work and our customers.

I took over this gem of a shop just over 5 years ago and I’m so proud to represent the work of so many talented local artists and makers. I’m also grateful for the amazing group of women who work beside me everyday and our wonderful supportive customers! Have a great summer and see you soon!

Jill Fitz Hirschbold

Shannon Oaks is independent, all-inclusive seniors living. It is a wonderful way for you to enjoy an all-inclusive lifestyle filled with social engagements, nutritious meals, daily exercise and new friendships. You would be surrounded by understanding peers and belong to a meaningful community. Some describe it as living on a cruise ship on land.

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Your own private suite can range from 500-800 square feet and it features large windows, a full bathroom, kitchenette and utilities. Every meal is an occasion prepared by professional chefs and personally served by our dining staff. Fresh baked goods, fruit and beverages are available throughout the day. Shannon Oaks offers you an array of daily activities including fitness classes, crafting, painting, card games, discussion groups and field trips. Bus trips are scheduled multiple times a week to include malls, libraries, concerts and more. There is also a hair salon available for all your beauty needs. Other amenities include a gym with equipment specialized for seniors and a spacious entertainment room that hosts weekly movie nights, dances, socials and a variety of local entertainers. You can pick and choose what you like. Take part in everything or just sit back and relax and enjoy the 24/7 customer service. Cleaning…. no more. For your convenience and peace of mind we provide weekly housekeeping, linen service and 24-hour emergency response. Your suite is left sparkling clean every week, while you can enjoy time with friends and family.

Step into a beautiful courtyard with a bubbling fountain and landscaped gardens to relax in. There really is something for everyone.

Living at Shannon Oaks you will feel like you are part of one big family. Call for a tour today.

Discover OAK BAY

Can allergies cause tinnitus and hearing loss?

Allergies, particularly during spring and summer, can cause hearing loss and tinnitus. Allergic rhinitis, or hay fever, leads to symptoms like itchy eyes, a runny nose, and sneezing. Histamine, released in response to pollen, is responsible for hay fever symptoms. Excessive mucus production can block the sinuses and Eustachian tube, hindering sound transmission and causing a feeling of ear fullness and slight hearing loss.

Tinnitus, characterized by ringing in the ears, can worsen in individuals with existing tinnitus when allergies are present. Three types of allergy-related hearing loss are:

1. Fullness: Excess fluid buildup creates pressure and a clogged sensation in the ear, reducing hearing capacity. Seek medical attention if accompanied by pain.

2. Tinnitus: Fluid buildup causes tinnitus alongside other allergy symptoms. Persistent tinnitus, with or without other symptoms, should be discussed with a hearing health professional.

3. Conductive Hearing Loss: Excess fluid or blockages impede sound transmission to the middle ear, resulting in hearing loss. It can occur suddenly or persist over time, usually resolving once allergy symptoms subside.

Allergens during allergy season can affect hearing aids, reducing their performance. Regular maintenance and cleaning are crucial for optimal functioning and longevity. Allergic reactions to hearing aids may occur due to trapped water, dry skin, or allergies to the materials. Consult a hearing health professional for alternative options if an allergic reaction is suspected.

For individuals concerned about hearing loss or tinnitus, HearingLife formerly NexGen Hearing offers free tests, consultations, and more at their clinics. To book an appointment at our Oak Bay Hearing clinic call 1-888-8705607 and our Fairfield Hearing clinic call 1-888-870-3228.

The Avenue Gallery has been welcoming art appreciators for over 20 years. The Dutch door is always open to passersby for their first peek into the world of art, as well as the seasoned and knowledgeable collector. This thoughtfully curated space provides a welcoming and relaxed environment for anyone looking for a unique addition to a collection, a special gift for weddings, retirements, birthdays or just because.

With this broad spectrum of clients in mind, The Avenue Gallery offers:

- Accessible entrance

- Open daily

- “On approval” artwork trial for up to 48 hours

- Superimposing of artwork into photos of clients’ spaces

- Flexible payment plans and lease-to-own options

- E-Commerce website

- Worldwide shipping

- Gift certificates

- Complimentary gift wrapping

For many of Victoria’s top interior designers, The Avenue Gallery adds the finishing touches to corporate and residential projects, enhancing any environment and respecting every budget. A key resource for all professionals in the industry, the gallery offers clients carefully

chosen works of art that express individuality and are tailored to their environment.

With an unsurpassed collection of paintings, sculpture, ceramics, glass and jewellery by over 60 Canadian artists, The Avenue Gallery is a veritable feast for the eyes. The gallery’s e-commerce website makes it easy to order your perfect artwork from home. Shop online anytime at theavenuegallery. com

The Avenue Gallery is open Monday – Saturday 10am-5pm, Sunday 12-4pm. 2184 Oak Bay Avenue, 250-598-2184.

TO ADVERTISE IN THE NEXT DISCOVER OAK BAY FEATURE

Contact: Paul Wiebe, Advertising Sales Representative 250-514-0437 • pwiebe@timescolonist.com