Discover Oak Bay by Times Colonist

TIMES COLONIST | timescolonist.com

TUESDAY, MARCH 10, 2020

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Discover OAK BAY Bloomin’ Beautiful Springtime!

STOP BY THE FLOWER SHOP ON OAK BAY AVENUE, AND BE SURE TO SAY HI TO CHARLIE!

Beaches • Boutique Shops • Galleries Food & Wine • Accommodations

o nice to see the spring flowers at this time of year — tulips, daffodils, pussy willow — spring brings a pop of colour. Spring is also a time for gardens and planting. You will find a great selection of plants at the Oak Bay flower shop. The selection is always changing, and you can find plants for both your home and garden in an impressive range of sizes. Indoor plants include succulents, small tropicals, hanging plants and large plants like the very popular Fiddle Leaf Fig. Outdoor garden plants make great gifts and can be enjoyed inside and then transplanted outside. The Oak Bay Flower Shop has an inspiring collection of fresh, healthy plants. The flower shop is excited about their new soil product line. Mark Dickerson of “Garden Gems” is a local company who offers a superior selection of potting mixes. Mark has worked in the horticultural field for the past 15 years and has developed some great organic specialty products, including an excellent blend for arid loving plants and an

outstanding seed starting mix. Their newest product, Vitalizer, helps bring life to potted plants. Potted plants are often kept in sterile/dead soil with no beneficial microbes and very few natural nutrients. Adding microbes helps fight off pathogens so that your plants are healthier and live longer. Microbes thrive in a soil that is rich in organic nutrients. Vitalizer renews dead soil with those microbes. It also adds nutrients, without the aid of fertilizer, all from natural sources like worm castings, fish compost and leaf mulch. Treat yourself, your garden, your home and your plants to something extra special this spring — stop by the Flower Shop on Oak Bay Avenue. And be sure to say hi to Charlie! They offer every customer the freshest flowers, best value and great service, and send Flowers World Wide and offer same day delivery in Greater Victoria. The Oak Bay Flower Shop is located at 102-2187 Oak Bay Avenue in Victoria. Phone: 250-595-2421. oakbayflowershop.com

What makes GNS Middle School great?

e could tell you about all the things that make the Middle School at Glenlyon Norfolk School great. Small class size. Committed and talented teachers. Strong academics. The International Baccalaureate Middle Years Program. Extensive co-curricular options. Individualized education. Inquiry-based teaching. But we thought it would be better if you heard from the students themselves. So we asked some of them: “What’s your favourite thing about Middle School at GNS?” After a moment of thoughtful hesitation they started talking, and boy, did they have lots to say. Caring staff. The cookies. Loads of co-curriculars. The community. Awesome subjects. Everyone’s really nice. But one phrase

was repeated most of all: “There is something here for everyone!” At GNS, we are firm believers in placing our students right at the centre of their learning. We know, support and challenge every student as an individual, and understand that our community grows stronger through this practice. Our Middle School offers a safe, nurturing and wholly positive environment where students can enjoy what they do and have fun learning, knowing that this sense of enjoyment is just what helps to make us a special part of the GNS community. To hear all of what our Middle Schoolers had to say, or to find out more about Glenlyon Norfolk School, visit: mygns.ca/what-makes-ourmiddle-school-great.

Oak Bay in 48 hours Everything you need to see in this charming coastal destination esidents of Vancouver Island have likely frequented Victoria’s lively Downtown and all its famous sights and amenities. For travellers seeking new experiences on the South Island, Oak Bay awaits. This enchanting community can be found just 10 minutes from the Inner Harbour. You’ll be instantly charmed by the picturesque views of the Salish Sea and its natural splendour. Charming islets, ecological preserves just off the coast and quintessentially rugged shorelines and beaches are in no short supply here. Beyond epic West Coast scenery, visitors will also fall in love with the old-world neighbourhoods, including Estevan Village and the main village located on Oak Bay Avenue. Cafés, bakeries, restaurants, boutiques, galleries and gift shops are intermingled throughout the district which is easily explored by car, bike rental or on foot.

Find Your Accommodation The luxurious Oak Bay Beach Hotel offers decadent spa treatments and an outdoor mineral pool with front row ocean views, making it a coveted spot to stay in Victoria.

The equally enchanting Oak Bay Guest House is just a stone’s throw from the beach and provides guests with a taste of English finery. What to Do Take in the scenery with marine tours, enjoy the abundance of parks and greenspace, or rent an electric bike and traverse the 8+ miles of coastline. Art lovers will enjoy the many galleries and gift shops found along Oak Bay Avenue with a variety of mediums and exhibitions. In the spring, the area comes alive with cherry blossoms and opportunities to take in sunny afternoons on Willows Beach. In the summer, free live music, art programs and festivals, including Arts Alive and the Oak Bay Tea Party, attract people of all ages. Where to Eat and Drink Get ready to nosh at the award-winning Oak Bay Marina Restaurant, and the French inspired Vis a Vis. Find breakfast favourites at the Village Eatery and Ruth + Dean’s. Ottavio Café is recommended for scrumptious Italian pastries. Hide + Seek and Demitasse also offer a great cup of coffee. Finally, enjoy a pint on the patio (almost year-round) at the much-loved Penny Farthing Pub.

Welcome Spring with a fresh cut

FLOWER ARRANGEMENT 0011798317 Order & deliver some happiness to someone special today.

OAK SHOP Create yourBAY own bouquetFLOWER from our selection of single stem flowers. Oak Bay Feature 4 x 40 CMYK, , oakbayflowershop.com 102 - 2187 Oak Bay Ave

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Phone: 250-595-2421

What Makes Our Middle School Great? 0011798224 We asked some of our students: What’s your favourite thing about Middle School at GNS? Caring staff. GLENLYON NORFOLK The cookies. Loads of co-curriculars. The community. Awesome subjects. There isSCHOOL something here for everyone! Find out more: https://www.mygns.ca/what-makes-our-middle-school-great Oak Bay Feature www.mygns.ca 10 x 28 250.370.6801 | Victoria, BC Glenlyon Norfolk School

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Toll Free: 1-800-667-2421

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TUESDAY, MARCH 10, 2020

Discover OAK BAY EXPERIENCE WHY ELECTRIC ASSIST BIKES ARE

t’s not about speed or as little effort as possible. It’s about inclusion and participation. It’s about equality and sharing. Electric-assist bikes are nothing short of amazing. Imagine technology that would allow a non-golfer to play shot for shot with a semi-pro. Or being a 50-minute 10km runner and going out with your super-fit friend to put in a 35-minute 10km run. Doesn’t exist for any activity, except cycling Oak Bay Bicycles has introduced more people to e-bikes than anyone on the Island. Their demo on demand program is unique in North America. That’s right. Nobody else offers this, so it’s a big deal. If you're interested in experiencing all the benefits of an e-bike, Oak Bay Bikes will bring a bike to you, show you how it works and pick it up afterwards, all at no cost and no obligation. See what all of the hype is about. No

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Beaches • Boutique Shops • Galleries Food & Wine • Accommodations

Nothing Short of Amazing

amount of talking, listening or reading compares to trying it for yourself. Book online or call the shop today. Power up, charge down! Electric mountain bikes are here, growing in popularity, and despite some access concerns, continue to get better and more enjoyable to ride. Their small motors help you ride farther and can make challenging climbs less daunting. If you are curious about e-mountain bikes, join Oak Bay Bikes’ 2020 season-kick off at Bear Mountain on Friday, March 20, from 12 noon to 5 p.m. Norco, Trek and Santa Cruz will bring the latest technology and The Cycling Co. will be hosting e-mountain bike specific skills clinics. We believe bikes are changing the world. But don't take our word for it, experience an e-bike for yourself. More info online: oakbaybikes.com

This hidden gem is a family favourite outdoor treasure

OAK BAY

GOLF HENDERSON RECREATION

The fairway is open! Henderson Park Par 3 Golf Course opens Saturday, March 14th with a special rate for March of $5.25 for a round of golf (equipment available for rent at an DGGLWLRQDO FRVW 1HVWOHG LQ D EHDXWLIXO WUHH ȵDQNHG setting, the course provides a challenge to beginners and more expervienced golfers alike. There are lessons for all ages through the season on Wednesdays and Saturdays. Registration opens April 1st for full day and half day summer camps.

0011804179 OAK BAY RECREATION CENTRE Oak Bay Feature 5 x 196 OAK BAY CMYK, , 2291 Cedar Hill X Road | 250-370-7200 | www.oakbay.ca/parks-recreation

SPRING

here’s something about Victoria in the spring time — the smell of hydrangeas in bloom, daffodils bursting with sunshine and the pink blossoms blooming on the trees lining the streets. Nestled in a beautiful tree-lined setting, Henderson Park Par 3 Golf Course is truly a hidden gem in Victoria. The course provides a challenge for both beginners and experienced golfers and is ideal for practicing your short game. Enjoy special rates like Happy Hour Monday to Friday from 3 to 5 p.m., and Ladies Morning Fridays from 9 a.m. to 12 noon for only $5.25 a round.

A family of four can golf for $10.25 on Fridays, from 5 p.m. until close, and Sunday from 9 a.m. to 12 noon. Lessons for all ages are offered on Wednesdays and Saturdays, and registration for full and half-day summer camps for kids begin on Wednesday, April 1. Come to Henderson Park Par 3 Golf Course for a round — located at 2291 Cedar Hill X Rd. Phone: 250-370-7200. The course opens for the season on Saturday, Mar. 14. Enjoy the special rate of $5.25 for all rounds anytime the course is open for the rest of the month. Remember, no reservations are needed. Drop in today! recreation.oakbay.ca

0011798219 OAK BAY BICYCLE SHOP Oak Bay Feature 5 x 50 CMYK, ,

April 1—June 21 Registration closes March 18th, 2020 The League LQFOXGHV WHQ VHOI RɝFLDWed games, a game on the same night of each week. Start times 6:30pm. Pick a day that works best for you to play: Monday-Friday. A Free Year End Tournament – June 19-21, with a free pizza lunch on 6DWXUGD\ IRU DOO SOD\HUV 8PSLUHV DUH VXSSOLHG IRU VHPL ȴQDO DQG ȴQDO games of tournament.

Call 250-370-7114 for more information.

A FAMILY ENJOYS OAK BAY’S HENDERSON GOLF COURSE. A FAMILY OF FOUR CAN GOLF FOR $10.25 ON FRIDAYS, FROM 5 P.M. UNTIL CLOSE, AND SUNDAY FROM 9 A.M. TO 12 NOON. — KEVIN LIGHT PHOTO

850/team

to Registe

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TIMES COLONIST | timescolonist.com

TUESDAY, MARCH 10, 2020

Discover OAK BAY

Beaches • Boutique Shops • Galleries Food & Wine • Accommodations

The Old Farm Market now in Oak Bay

Supplying fresh, high quality fruits and vegetables to the community he Old Farm Market, home of local produce, now has two great locations — in Duncan, and now the new Victoria store located at 2585 Cadboro Bay Rd. Their focus is their fresh quality and generous variety of produce at low prices. And their friendly staff deliver great customer service.

The new Victoria location has a full service delicatessen where they build custom sandwiches and offer items including salads, meats, cheeses and rotisserie chickens prepared daily. They also offer a convenient and diverse assortment of grocery items, bread, dairy, meat pies and prepared foods. How they started Mike Langtry, the son of a Cowichan Valley strawberry farmer, founded the

Old Farm Market in 1988. His dream was to have fresh fruits and vegetables available year-round for all the local communities to enjoy. Thirty years later, The Old Farm Market has become an integral part of the community. Lorne Campbell bought The Old Farm Market in July 2017. His vision is to carry on the tradition of providing the Cowichan Valley with the lowest

priced local produce — all in an inviting, farm market atmosphere. When it comes to locally grown fresh berries, fruits and vegetables, The Old Farm Market can’t be beat. Their new location on Cadboro Bay Road in Victoria delivers all the variety and goodness of the Duncan market to the Victoria community. 2585 Cadboro Bay Rd. theoldfarmmarket.ca

Spring refresh with Annie Sloan Paint BY DEBORAH BAKER, FIVE FIELDS

pring refresh is on everyone’s mind at this time of year. That’s why Five Fields is excited to announce the addition of Annie Sloan paint to our shop. Annie Sloan paint is a natural addition to the decor, accessories and giftware we already carry. We love the transformative nature of the paint. If you fall in love with our new linen pillows or our classic Palermo dinnerware, you might be inspired to revamp a cocktail table or dining chairs with a fresh lick of Annie Sloan paint. One of the inspired features of the paint is that it can go over plastic, wood, laminate, concrete, and even dye fabric. The

makeover miracles in one can of paint are endless. Garden furniture is a wonderful first makeover. That faded green plastic chair or planter doesn’t need to head to the land fill. A simple coat of paint brings it back to life. You can experiment with colour — try a bright Provence blue or a pale pink Antoinette — just clean and paint, and your garden furniture will look beautiful and will last for a long time. My favourite makeover is the wonders this paint can do to a kitchen or bathroom. It will transform your cabinets, walls and even floors. In the photo, the French linen cabinets are paired with a rich Napoleonic blue wall

and copper accessories. To achieve the cabinets, they were washed, painted with two coats with a large flat brush with bold strokes in all directions, given a light sand to remove any imperfections, and then waxed twice to ensure a strong durable finish. It’s a beautiful look, regardless of whether your cabinets are wood or laminate. With no priming, the transformation is satisfyingly immediate. We welcome Sloan Rangers to explore the world of Annie Sloan at Five Fields, located at 2070 Cadboro Bay Rd., and online at: fivefieldsdesign.com If you have completed a project, we would love to see it! Tag us on Instagram @fivefieldsdecor.

NAPOLEONIC BLUE KITCHEN, PROVENCE, PARIS GREY, MAHOGANY LOOK TABLE TOP. PAINTS AVAILABLE AT FIVE FIELDS IN OAK BAY.

SEE YOU in OAK BAY! April 18 and 19 Oak Bay Artists’ Spring Studio Tour

June to September Summer Markets

Visit the twenty-first semi-annual Artists Studio Tour between noon and 4:30 each day. Many of Oak Bay’s established and emerging artists will use their homes and studios as backdrops to display original watercolours, acrylic and oil paintings, fibre, photography, woodcuts, glass and pottery creations. oakbay.ca

Visit Oak Bay Avenue between 4 and 8 p.m. on the second Wednesday of June, July, August and September when Oak Bay Village transforms into a European style market.

May 24 Oak Bay Half Marathon Organized by Frontrunners. Cheer on the runners or get active by running the half marathon or participating in the 10K and Kid’s 1K. The Oak Bay Half-Marathon, Relay, 10k & Kids 1k is one of BC’s most scenic running events. Starting at Windsor Park and winding its way through the heart of Oak Bay’s shopping district, the course loops out and back along the scenic Beach Drive. Still time to register: oakbayhalf.com

picnics, family dance and more. Take a guided bus or walking tour to see Oak Bay’s art installations, including the iconic painted pianos.

August 9 Bowker Creek Brush-Up

June 6 and 7 Oak Bay Tea Party

40+ artists set up creekside to paint and display their collections. If you see something you love, you can likely buy it there, too.

Carnival rides, air show, teacup races and a big parade. Something for everyone!

Oct 31 Trick-or-Treat on the Avenue

July 26 Oak Bay Collector Car Festival

Bring the kids to Oak Bay Village to trick-ortreat with the local merchants. Live music, jugglers, stilt walkers, magic and more.

Almost 300 exhibitor cars over five blocks. If you love your car, register on the same day and join the fun, or come down to view cars from all across North America.

August Oak Bay Arts & Culture Days Annual event. Free outdoor concerts, community

Nov 29 Oak Bay Light-up Festival The Avenue comes alive with street vendors, live bands and festivities, topped off by a visit from Santa during the official light-up of the Village.

Bring Spring Home with Five Fields Decor & Design

Now a proud new stockist of Anne Sloan Paint we can show you how to transform almost any surface indoors or outdoors!

Feel inspired to create a new spring look with linens, accessories and tableware!

0011803227 W&J WILSON OakBay Feature 3 x 94 CMYK, , FINE CLOTHIERS SINCE 1862

1221 Government St. 250.383.7177 Mon-Sat 10-5:30 Sun 11-4 1210 Newport Ave. 250.592.2821 Mon-Sat 10-5 10-5:30 2449 Beacon Ave. 778.426.4446 Mon-Sat 10-5

If you would like to showcase your business in this feature, contact: Paul Wiebe at: pwiebe@timescolonist.com or phone: 250-514-0437.

2070 Cadboro Bay Road across from Oak Bay High School www.fivefieldsdesign.com

wandjwilson.com

OPEN DAILY

Home of Local Produce 0011798206 8am-8pm PRODUCE RODUCE – DE DELIFARM – GROCERY THE OLD MARKET CADBORO BA GREEN ONIONS

FO OR 2FOR

FRESH CORN

OKANAGAN ICEBERG PINK LADY APPLES LETTUCE

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BLOOD ORANGES

LEMONS

Oak Bay Feature $ 49 $ 10 1 129 x 503 99 ¢ CMYK, , ROMAINE HEARTS LOCAL YUKON FOR

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3 PACK

$ 49

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LOCALLY OWNED & OPERATED!

2585 Cadboro Bay Rd. Oak Bay (across from Pure Vanilla Bakery)

www.theoldfarmmarket.ca

NUGGET POTATOES

$ 49

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Prices in effect Mar. 7 to 13, 2020