Reader's Choice Awards

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SUNDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2018

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WINNERS’ EDITION INSIDE:

Winners, Finalists & Profiles from all 102 Categories

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SUNDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2018

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WINNERS & FINALISTS YOU VOTED, AND HERE’S WHAT YOU TOLD US!

AUTOMOTIVE AUTO DETAILING Stellar Finish Auto Detailing .......... WINNER Prestige Carwash & Auto Detailing ............................... FINALIST Didi Auto Group ............................ FINALIST

AUTO REPAIR John’s Auto Body & Paint .............. WINNER Big-O Tires .................................... FINALIST BCAA Auto Service Centre ............ FINALIST Speedy Auto Service ...................... FINALIST

OIL CHANGE Mr Lube ........................................ WINNER Big-O Tires .................................... FINALIST Great Canadian Oil Change ........... FINALIST

RV DEALER Arbutus RV & Marine Sales............ WINNER Big Boys Toys Parksville ................. FINALIST Galaxy RV Duncan......................... FINALIST Greg’s RV Place ............................. FINALIST

COMMUNITY ART GALLERY Art Gallery of Greater Victoria ....... WINNER Winchester Galleries Ltd (Oak Bay) ...FINALIST Alcheringa Gallery (Fort Street) ...... FINALIST

BC FERRIES ROUTE WITH THE BEST SCENERY Swartz Bay to Tsawwassen ............ WINNER Vancouver to Victoria .................... FINALIST Tsawwassen/Sidney ...................... FINALIST

BC PREMIER YOU MISS THE MOST Dave Barrett.................................. WINNER Mike Harcourt ............................... FINALIST W.A.C. Bennett ............................. FINALIST

BEACH Willows......................................... WINNER Island View Beach Regional Park ... FINALIST Witty’s Lagoon.............................. FINALIST

HARDEST WORKING MLA

TV WEATHER PERSON

BUTCHER

Carol James .................................. WINNER Lana Popham, MLA ....................... FINALIST John Horgan MLA Community Office .... FINALIST

Ed Bain ......................................... WINNER Dylan Willows ............................... FINALIST

Glenwood Meats........................... WINNER Fraser Orr Butcher ......................... FINALIST Berryman Farms ............................ FINALIST

ISLAND TOURIST ATTRACTION

YOUR FAVOURITE WAY TO GET OFF OF THE ISLAND

Butchart Gardens .......................... WINNER Royal BC Museum ......................... FINALIST Horne Lake Caves Provincial Park .... FINALIST

BC Ferries Connector ..................... WINNER Harbour Air ................................... FINALIST Black Ball Ferry ............................. FINALIST

OFF LEASH DOG PARK Dallas Road ................................... WINNER Elk/Beaver Lake............................. FINALIST Mount Douglas Park...................... FINALIST

PARK/PLAYGROUND Beacon Hill.................................... WINNER Cadboro-Gyro Park ....................... FINALIST East Sooke Regional Park .............. FINALIST

PICNIC SPOT Beacon Hill Park ............................ WINNER Saxe Point ..................................... FINALIST Island View Beach Regional Park ... FINALIST

ENTERTAINMENT MOVIE THEATER IMAX ............................................ WINNER Silver City ...................................... FINALIST Capitol 6 Theatres ......................... FINALIST

NIGHT CLUB Hermann’s Jazz Club ..................... WINNER Capital Ballroom ........................... FINALIST Upstairs Cabaret Ltd...................... FINALIST

OUTDOOR MUSIC VENUE

CHINESE FOOD J & J Wonton Noodle House .......... WINNER Don Mee....................................... FINALIST Halibut house ................................ FINALIST

COFFEE SHOP Discovery Coffee ........................... WINNER Caffe Fantastico ............................ FINALIST Serious Coffee Douglas Street ........ FINALIST

FERMENT ON PREMISE Unsworth Vineyards ...................... WINNER The Wine Maker ............................ FINALIST

FINE DINING Fireside Grill .................................. WINNER Il Covo Trattoria ............................ FINALIST Brasserie L’Ecole ............................ FINALIST

FISH N CHIPS

PLACE TO HIKE

Sunfest Country Music Fest at Laketown Ranch........................ WINNER

Mt Douglas Park ........................... WINNER East Sooke Park ............................ FINALIST Thetis Lake Regional Park .............. FINALIST

FOOD & DINING

Red Fish Blue Fish ......................... WINNER Barb’s Fish N’ Chips (Fisherman’s Wharf) ...................... FINALIST Fish on Fifth .................................. FINALIST

BAKERY

FOOD TRUCK

PLACE TO SEE A LIVE PERFORMANCE Royal Theatre ................................ WINNER Alix Goolden Performance Hall ...... FINALIST Chemainus Theatre ....................... FINALIST

RADIO PERSONALITY Ed Bain 100.3 The Q ..................... WINNER Al Feraby, CFAX ............................ FINALIST Gregor Craigie............................... FINALIST

Dutch Bakery ................................ WINNER Crust Bakery ................................. FINALIST Fol Epi .......................................... FINALIST

BBQ FOOD Jones BBQ..................................... WINNER The Very Good Butchers ................ FINALIST Montana’s..................................... FINALIST

BREAKFAST

Berwick House .............................. WINNER Shannon Oaks-Oak Bay ................. FINALIST

Floyd’s Diner ................................. WINNER The Village Restaurant................... FINALIST Jam Cafe ....................................... FINALIST

SEASIDE WALK

BRUNCH

RETIREMENT COMMUNITY

Dallas Road ................................... WINNER Breakwater ................................... FINALIST Sidney waterfront .......................... FINALIST Songhees Walkway ....................... FINALIST

Fireside Grill .................................. WINNER Jam Cafe ....................................... FINALIST Floyd’s Diner ................................. FINALIST Marina Restaurant......................... FINALIST

Greek on the Street ....................... WINNER Tacofino ........................................ FINALIST Taco Justice ................................... FINALIST

HAMBURGER Bin 4 ............................................. WINNER Big Wheel ..................................... FINALIST The Pink Bicycle ............................ FINALIST

HAPPY HOUR Fireside Grill .................................. WINNER Glo Restaurant + Lounge .............. FINALIST Milestones .................................... FINALIST The Beach House .......................... FINALIST

ICE CREAM Beacon Hill Drive In ....................... WINNER Cold Comfort ................................ FINALIST Parachute Ice Cream ..................... FINALIST

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INDIAN Sizzling Tandoor ............................ WINNER Varsha .......................................... FINALIST Royal Spice Fine Indian Cuisine ...... FINALIST

ISLAND WINERY Blue Grouse Estate Winery ............ WINNER Unsworth Vineyards ...................... FINALIST Church and State Wines ................ FINALIST

ITALIAN Il Terrazzo ..................................... WINNER Pizzeria Prima Strada ..................... FINALIST IL Covo Trattoria............................ FINALIST

LIQUOR STORE Vessel Liquor Store ........................ WINNER Everything Wine ............................ FINALIST BC liquor Stores Fort/Foul Bay ....... FINALIST

MEXICAN FOOD Cafe Mexico .................................. WINNER La Taqueria Pinche Taco Shop ........ FINALIST Adriana’s The Whole Enchilada ...... FINALIST

PIZZA Pizzeria Prima Strada ..................... WINNER Romeo’s ........................................ FINALIST Oregano’s ..................................... FINALIST

PUB Spinnakers Gastro Brewpub & Guest Houses ............................ WINNER Six Mile Pub .................................. FINALIST Penny Farthing Public House.......... FINALIST

RESTAURANT PATIO Fireside Grill .................................. WINNER Glo Restaurant + Lounge .............. FINALIST Canoe Brewpub ............................ FINALIST

SUSHI Fujiya Foods - Victoria ................... WINNER Ebizo Japanese Restaurant Ltd ....... FINALIST Sen Zushi ...................................... FINALIST

VEGETARIAN FOOD Rebar ............................................ WINNER Be Love ......................................... FINALIST Baan Thai, Victoria ........................ FINALIST

HEALTH & BEAUTY BARBER SHOP Brothers Barbershop...................... WINNER Victory Barbers & Brand ................ FINALIST Uomo Modern Barber.................... FINALIST

HEALTH & BEAUTYHAIR SALON Chamberlain Walk Hair Design....... WINNER Fish Hair Salon .............................. FINALIST Gold Hair Lounge ......................... FINALIST

HEALTH FOOD STORE The Vitamin Shop .......................... WINNER Lifestyles ....................................... FINALIST Whole foods ................................. FINALIST

PHARMACY Heart Pharmacy ............................ WINNER Shoppers Drug Mart - Royal Oak ... FINALIST London Drugs ............................... FINALIST

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HOME & GARDEN APPLIANCE STORE WestCoast Appliance .................... WINNER Trail Appliances ............................. FINALIST Lansdowne Appliance Gallery ........ FINALIST

BLINDS AND WINDOW COVERINGS Budget Blinds ................................ WINNER Ruffell & Brown Window Fashions........................................ FINALIST Island Windows Coverings Ltd ....... FINALIST Pete’s Tent & Awning Ltd............... FINALIST

CARPET CLEANERS Sunny Carpet & Upholstery Cleaning ...................... WINNER Luv-A-Rug Services Inc .................. FINALIST Coit .............................................. FINALIST

FLOORING STORE United Carpet Victoria/Sidney ........ WINNER Windsor Plywood Westshore ......... FINALIST Hourigans Flooring ........................ FINALIST

GARDEN CENTER GardenWorks - Saanich ................. WINNER Elk Lake Nursery ........................... FINALIST Cannor Nursery ............................. FINALIST

HARDWARE STORE Capital Iron ................................... WINNER Home Hardware ............................ FINALIST Castle Building Centre ................... FINALIST Oak Bay Home Hardware .............. FINALIST

SPA Pure Day Spa................................. WINNER Willow Stream Spa ........................ FINALIST Oak Bay Beach Hotel ..................... FINALIST

VITAMIN STORE The Vitamin Shop .......................... WINNER Lifestyle Markets ........................... FINALIST Sidney Natural Foods..................... FINALIST

FUNERAL HOME McCall Gardens Funeral Services ...... WINNER Hatley Memorial Gardens .............. FINALIST First Memorial Funeral Services...... FINALIST

INSURANCE AGENCY Harbord Insurance ......................... WINNER Megson FitzPatrick Insurance Services ........................................ FINALIST Core (Island) Insurance Services ..... FINALIST

LAW OFFICE Beacon Law Barristers ................... WINNER Sitka Law Group............................ FINALIST McConnan, Bion, O’Connor & Peterson .................................... FINALIST

PROPERTY MANAGEMENT Newport Property Management Ltd ..................................................... WINNER Firm Management Corporation ...... FINALIST Brown Bros ................................... FINALIST

REAL ESTATE BROKERAGE Newport Realty ............................. WINNER Newport Realty Sidney .................. FINALIST Macdonald Realty ......................... FINALIST

TRAVEL AGENCY Expedia......................................... WINNER Departures Travel .......................... FINALIST Flight Centre Business Travel Victoria ......................................... FINALIST

RETAIL

HOME FURNISHINGS

ANTIQUE STORE

Heirloom Linens ............................ WINNER Dodd’s .......................................... FINALIST ScanDesigns Furniture ................... FINALIST

Beehive Wool Shop ....................... WINNER Charmaine’s Past & Present Home Collection............................ FINALIST Everything Old Canada .................. FINALIST

HOT TUB

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OUTDOORS SHOP Capital Iron ................................... WINNER MEC ............................................. FINALIST Robinsons ..................................... FINALIST

SHOE STORE Walk in Comfort Shoes .................. WINNER Baggins Shoes............................... FINALIST The Cobbler .................................. FINALIST

SHOPPING MALL Mayfair ......................................... WINNER Uptown ........................................ FINALIST Hillside .......................................... FINALIST

SIGN SHOP Graphic FX Signworks ................... WINNER

SPORTS FOOTWEAR Frontrunners ................................. WINNER New Balance ................................. FINALIST Capital Iron .................................. FINALIST

WEED SHOP Trees ............................................. WINNER Farmacy Victoria BC ...................... FINALIST Leaf Compassion ........................... FINALIST

WOMEN’S BOUTIQUE Hughes ......................................... WINNER Marmalade Tart Boutique .............. FINALIST True Boutique................................ FINALIST

GOLF COURSE (PUBLIC) Cedar Hill Golf Course ................... WINNER Cordova Bay Golf Course ............... FINALIST Highland Pacific Golf ..................... FINALIST Olympic View ................................ FINALIST

SPORTS & FITNESS GYM FITNESS FACILITY

Capital Iron ................................... WINNER Aqua Pacific Pools & Spas ............. FINALIST Twiligt........................................... FINALIST

AUCTION HOUSE Kilshaw’s Auctioneers.................... WINNER Lund’s ........................................... FINALIST

Alive Mindbody ............................. WINNER YMCA-YWCA ................................ FINALIST Oak Bay Recreation ....................... FINALIST

HOUSEWARES

BICYCLE SHOP

YOGA STUDIO

Capital Iron ................................... WINNER Oak Bay Home Hardware .............. FINALIST

Trek Bicycle Store .......................... WINNER Oak Bay Bicycles ........................... FINALIST Russ Hays ..................................... FINALIST

Oxygen Yoga and Fitness Saanich .. WINNER One Yoga Victoria ......................... FINALIST Moksha ........................................ FINALIST

BOOKSTORE

BOAT MARINA

PATIO FURNITURE Capital Iron ................................... WINNER Wickerland Patio ........................... FINALIST Insideout Home Store .................... FINALIST

ROOFING CO. Irwin Industries (988) Ltd .............. WINNER Parker Johnston............................. FINALIST Ray Ooievaar Roofing .................... FINALIST

WINDOWS

Bolen Books .................................. WINNER Russel Books ................................. FINALIST Munro’s Books .............................. FINALIST

Shades of White Bridal Fashions .... WINNER Luz Bridal Boutique ....................... FINALIST The White Peony Bridal Boutique ... FINALIST

FLORIST

PETS

FURNITURE STORE

PET GROOMER Happy Tails Teeth Cleaning ............ WINNER Pets West...................................... FINALIST Mucky Mutt Pet Salon ................... FINALIST

PET STORE Pets West...................................... WINNER Bosley’s......................................... FINALIST Rascals Pet Market ........................ FINALIST

PROFESSIONAL SERVICES BANK TD Canada Trust............................ WINNER Coast Capital Savings .................... FINALIST RBC Royal Bank ............................ FINALIST

CREDIT UNION Coast Capital Savings....................

Savings .................... WINNER

Oak Bay Marina ............................ WINNER Port Sidney Marina ........................ FINALIST Mill Bay Marina ............................. FINALIST Sooke Harbour Resort & Marina .... FINALIST

BRIDAL WEAR

Van Isle Windows - Victoria Showroom and Factory.................. WINNER Rusco Windows & Screens............. FINALIST Enerheat ....................................... FINALIST

RETIREMENT COMMUNITY Berwick House-Retirement Community ................................... WINNER Berwick Royal Oak - Retirement Community ................................... FINALIST Sidney All Care Residence .............. FINALIST

Coastal Community Credit Union ... FINALIST Island Savings ............................... FINALIST

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2018

Brown’s The Florist ........................ WINNER Thrifty Foods ................................. FINALIST Foxgloves Flowers ......................... FINALIST

Dodd’s .......................................... WINNER ScanDesigns Furniture ................... FINALIST La-Z-Boy Furniture Galleries ........... FINALIST Sager’s Home Living ...................... FINALIST

HOME ELECTRONICS Atlas Audio Video Unlimited .......... WINNER London Drugs ............................... FINALIST SoundHounds................................ FINALIST

JEWELRY STORE Paul Mara Jewellers....................... WINNER Idar ............................................... FINALIST Lugaro .......................................... FINALIST

LIGHTING STORE Mclaren Lighting ........................... WINNER Pine Lighting Victoria .................... FINALIST Illuminations Lighting Solutions ..... FINALIST

MEN’S CLOTHING Capital Iron ................................... WINNER Hudson’s Bay ................................ FINALIST Moores Clothingg for Men .............. ................. FINALIST

TRAVEL HOTEL Oak Bay Beach Hotel ..................... WINNER Fairmont Empress .......................... FINALIST Magnolia Hotel ............................. FINALIST

ISLAND BED & BREAKFAST Birds of a Feather Ocean Lagoon B&B ................................. WINNER Moonlit Cove BB ........................... FINALIST Blue Willow Guest House .............. FINALIST

ISLAND RESORT Kingfisher Oceanside Resort and Spa.............................. WINNER Wickaninnish Inn ........................... FINALIST Oak Bay Beach Hotel ..................... FINALIST

ISLAND TOURIST ATTRACTION Butchart Gardens .......................... WINNER Royal BC Museum ......................... FINALIST Victoria Inner Harbour ................... FINALIST

PRIVATE ISLAND CAMPGROUND Country Maples RV Resort ............. WINNER Living Forest Oceanside Campground ................................. FINALIST Pacheedaht Camground, F Port Renfrew.................................

Renfrew ................................. FINALIST

Congratulat ions... to all of our Winners & Finalists in this year’s Readers’ Choice Awards

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0011645963 SHOPPERS DRUG MART ROYAL OAK Thank you for your continued Readers Choice - Roy support of 5 x 152 Shoppers Drug Mart CMYK, , at Royal Oak .

DON MEE 250.881.1980 4440 W Saanich Rd, Victoria

The heartbeat in Chinatown Thank you to all the voters who voted us a finalist in the Chinese Restaurant Category in Victoria!

If you’re downtown strolling through Victoria’s Chinatown, you cannot help but notice the luminous lantern sign that says ‘Don Mee Seafood Restaurant’.

Don Mee Restaurant has been the heartbeat in Chinatown for over 90 years, and has established a tradition of dining through generation after generation. Don Mee has been serving Victoria since1923 with traditional Cantonese and Szechuan style cuisine. They are most known for their generous variety of Dim Sum, Roasted Peking Duck and live seafood, including Dungeness crab and lobster.

Thank you Victoria for voting us as a finalist in the Best Chinese Food category.

0011644478 We are proud to offer the ever-popular daily tradition of exotic dim sum cuisine.

DON MEE RESTAURANT Readers Choice Award — THE HEARTBEAT OF CHINATOWN FOR OVER 80 YEARS — JUST LOOK FOR THE DON MEE LANTERN! 5 x 152 CMYK, ,

538 Fisgard St 250.383.1032 donmee.com

Even though Dim Sum is served as small appetizers, it is a full lunch consisting an array of savoury and delicious Cantonese-style items presented on trolleys that circulate throughout the second-story dining room.

Don Mee’s Traditional Dim Sum is served 7 days a week, from 11 a.m. until 2:30 p.m., Monday to Friday, and from 10 a.m. on weekends and holidays.

A word of Advice Although Dim Sum is served every day, weekends are the most popular time. To avoid long line-ups, arrive before 11:30 a.m.

Enjoy the experience! donmee.com

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SUNDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2018

TREK BICYCLE STORE Readers Choice Award Winner “It has all paid off with the Trek Bicycle Store being chosen best bike store in this year’s Times Colonist Readers’ Choice Awards.”

Ten years ago, when they converted an old Vic West furniture-making shop into the store of their dreams, the local guys behind the Trek Bicycle Store couldn’t have foreseen where those dreams would lead.

They did have a clear picture of what kind of feeling they wanted people to have when they walked through the doors, though. They didn’t just want a customer base. They wanted to build a community.

They didn’t imagine the passion they could invoke in people, turning non-cyclists into enthusiasts. Didn’t envision a second location where customers would ride off on rental rides and this year’s phenomenon — electric bikes.

“We wanted a place where all types of cyclists could come together and be treated as equals, pros and Joes hanging out next to each other,” says Bill Fry, one of the same group of local owners still getting dirt under their nails a decade later.

It’s a comfortable environment. Newbies can attend a free learn-to-ride or bike-maintenance clinic by sharing an espresso with an Olympian.

Social gatherings, from town hall meetings to karaoke dance parties, always pull a large, enthusiastic crowd.

Finding skilled, friendly staff who are avid cyclists and treat people well has always been vital.

“Victoria is an amazing, small city and you need to treat people like you’re going to run into them in the grocery store — because you are going to run into them in the grocery store,” Fry said.

The store wanted to be part of the broader community as well, which is why every single year, the Catherine Street store has played an integral role in the Canadian Cancer Society Cops For Cancer — Tour de Rock. They also helped launch the ALS Cycle of Hope, provided a home for Ryder Hesjedal’s Tour de Victoria, and gave logistical support to countless mountain bike races, road bike races and triathlons.

It has all paid off with the Trek Bicycle Store being chosen best bike store in this year’s Times Colonist Readers’ Choice Awards.

“We are truly grateful to the people in our community for making this happen,” says Fry. “It validates what we set out to do 10 years ago.” trekbikesvictoria.com

0011647376 MACDONALD REALTY 5 x 152 AAA0

0011645876 PRO CITY CYCLE INC Readers Choice Award 5 x 152 CMYK, ,

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Thank You! For voting Budget Blinds #1 in Blinds & Window Coverings!

0011646280 CAMPBELL BLINDS LTD Winner Readers Choic 10 x 305 OUR TEAM CMYK, , OWNER

GENERAL MANAGER

SALES MANAGER

CUSTOMER SERVICE MANAGER

LORNE CAMPBELL

RUSSELL GURNEY

DUSTIN MCCONNELL

KRISTI CHURCHILL

CUSTOMER SERVICE

CAROL TUCKER

JAKE

ALANA TODD

BRIAN JUPP

MARTIN VANDERSPEK

NICK CAMPBELL

STYLE CONSULTANTS

JANINE KOSMENUKO

NANCY HANAK

LINDSAY CHISHOLM

ALYSHIA YAKIMISHYN

INSTALLATION PROFESSIONAL SERVICE

SEAN SKILLINGS

JOE QUINDO

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OUR SUPPLIERS

SHUTTERS. BLINDS. SHADES.

#100-915 Fort St, Victoria • 250.381.6238 • BudgetBlinds.com

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BUDGET BLINDS Readers’ Choice Award Winner

Transform your home into something special From unique shaped windows to energy efficient treatments, Budget Blinds creates beautiful solutions Budget Blinds would like to thank Times Colonist Readers for voting us #1 one in Window Coverings!

If you’ve been thinking about transforming your home’s interior into something truly special, Budget Blinds of Victoria is here to help. Our expert design team, paired with an array of stunning blinds, shades, shutters, drapery, and more creates the ideal home interior that complements any room, or an entire home. From the latest styles and innovative fabrics to a host of on-trend colours, we’ll show you how fun and affordable it can be to upgrade your décor with the power of the #1 provider of custom window coverings in North America.

Our consultative process is designed around caring about you and your home. We make the entire experience easy and convenient as we bring the showroom to you with our free in-home design consultation. From those unique shaped windows to energy efficient treatments and more, Budget Blinds does it all for you, with style and service for any budget. We’re local and we’re here to stay, to ensure you have peace of mind.

Budget Blinds brings our customers exclusive vendors and products to best serve their needs. With top brands like Lutron — the largest window covering company in North America — teamed up with the most established name in smart home technology to bring you the best in home automation. With Lutron, we have made home automation easy to use and easy to afford. Products like Smart Shades, Smart Lights and Smart Thermostat will help transform your home. Other exclusive brands include Enlightened Style, Signature Series and PureVu. At Budget Blinds, your child’s safety is our top priority.

When it comes to deciding on the safest choice in window coverings for a home with children or pets, why take chances? Fortunately, with Budget Blinds, you don’t have to. From cordless child-safe blinds and cordless shades with retractable lifts to motorized shades, Budget Blinds has the safe solutions that minimize the risk of accidents or injury.

For a custom design, we offer Design Ink. Create your own custom fabric, choosing from over 1,500 patterns and every colour in the rainbow. Budget Blinds does the rest, creating drapes and pillows for your one-of-a-kind home. Nobody else does custom like this.

With home automation on the rise, we can motorize your drapery rods and shades all into one system — controlled from your own smart device. With this new technology, you can literally operate your shades from anywhere in the world.

Regardless of your window’s size or shape, Budget Blinds will have a customized window covering solution for you.

Lorne Campbell brought Budget Blinds to Victoria as a mobile window coverings business in 2006. With his Thrifty Foods experience, the company was experiencing rapid growth. He started with Dustin, his nephew, and a few other close friends. Word quickly spread about the excellent service and lifetime guarantee.

THE EXPERT DESIGN TEAM AT BUDGET BLINDS, PAIRED WITH AN ARRAY OF STUNNING BLINDS, SHADES, SHUTTERS, DRAPERY AND MORE CREATES THE IDEAL HOME INTERIOR THAT COMPLEMENTS ANY ROOM, OR AN ENTIRE HOME.

By 2013, Lorne hired Russell Gurney as his general manager, and many other quality installers and home decor experts. In the fall of 2014, the retail store was opened on Fort Street. This brought the designer in-house, and proved to be a glamourous location to display the many brands and options available to home owners.

Budget Blinds is a well-known and respected company in our community. We are thrilled that Times Colonist readers have voted us #1.

Did I mention everything is completely custom? That means you can choose accent trims, edge landings in contrast colours, the perfect linings to give you room darkening or thermal protection and coordinating pillows all in one consultation.

Business owner Lorne Campbell chaired the BC Cancer Foundation’s “Jingle Mingle” in 2015. He and his family are recognized for their philanthropy. Lorne has been activey invloved in the Victoria community throughout his life, watching his dad build the Thrifty Food Store chain, giving back every step of the way.

Our company’s goal is simple: to provide you with the best products and services in order to enrich your home environment. Our lavish selection of window treatments includes shutters, blinds, draperies, shades and even window film.

Through superior products and attentive customer service Budget Blinds has grown to be one of the Top 3 Budget Blinds dealers in Canada. budgetblinds.com

LORNE CAMPBELL, BUDGET BLINDS OWNER.

VISIT BUDGET BLINDS AT 100-915 FORT ST. — A GLAMOUROUS LOCATION FEATURING IN-HOUSE DESIGN. YOU’LL FIND AN AMAZING SELECTION OF BRANDS AND OPTIONS ON DISPAY.

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MR. LUBE Winner Readers’ Choice Awards

Building a Business + Strengthening a Community

Thanks for voting us Best Oil Change.

0011647981 MR . LUBE 5 x 152 AAA0

Mark Cookson and Vicki Brimacombe have been a part of the Mr. Lube Franchisee family for 30 years. After years of successful operation of the Victoria Mr. Lube location, they wanted to provide the community with more than just the best place to get an oil change. Their vision was to bring the Mr. Lube brand, ranked as Canada’s No. 1 oil change provider, to Colwood — offering second to none service and convenience. They were determined to make a difference in the community.

Now the duo proudly own two convenient South Island locations at 3388 Douglas St. in Victoria and 319 Wale Rd. in Colwood. They formed partnerships and sponsorships over the years that have helped them stay connected and focused on what matters to their customers and community.

“We knew the Mr. Lube brand, products and services would provide our customers with a name they could trust.

Our business has flourished as a result,” says Mark Cookson. “This growth lets us give back to our community.”

No appointment needed. Open every day.

Through Mr. Lube, their vision to contribute to the South Island has come to life. Mr. Lube’s long list of community contributions includes a World Juniors

Partnership, and free oil change offers for veterans and military members. In addition, they raise money for the MS Society and Big Brothers each year.

Mr. Lube locations are open seven days a week and offer services including warranty-approved oil changes, tire changeovers, batteries, windshield chip repair, fuel system cleaning, headlight restoration and engine flush — all with no appointment necessary. All Mr. Lube technicians complete the ASE certificate program — the highest standard in the field, at the National Institute for Automotive Service Excellence.

As the local owner and operator, Mark can often be found at one of their two locations. Their strong community ties and hands-on approach to their business make them a unique service provider for more than just oil changes.

“I am proud to live and work in Colwood,” says Mark Cookson. “To our customers, thank you, and we look forward to seeing you at your next visit.”

Visit the Mr. Lube nearest you and enjoy fast, same-day service — we might even be done before you finish your complimentary cup of coffee. mrlube.com

Visit a Mr. Lube near you.

3388 Douglas St., Victoria 250-475-2666

FIND MR. LUBE AT TWO CONVENIENT SOUTH ISLAND LOCATIONS: 3388 DOUGLAS ST. IN VICTORIA AND 319 WALE RD. IN COLWOOD.

NEW! 319 Wale Rd., Colwood 250-590-9011 ® Reg. TM/MD of ML Royalties Limited Partnership, used under license.

0011645194 THE VITAMIN SHOP Reader's Choice Awar 10 x 152 CMYK, ,

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FINALIST: BEST PIZZA IN VICTORIA

The Story of Romeo’s Dimitri Mavrikos and his two brothers, Steve and George, came to Victoria from Vancouver with the dream of opening their own restaurant.

Their goal was to open a restaurant that offered excellent food, great service and a fun casual atmosphere.

They wanted a place that felt like home. In the summer of 1974, Romeo’s Place was created.

from their homeland — Greece. Delivery and takeout proved to be extremely popular options and the local market responded enthusiastically.

Romeo’s primary focus was signature pizza and pasta from recipes and techniques that had been passed down to the family. These staples created the name for the new restaurant and helped create a passionate local following. The menus included popular local dishes such as steaks, chicken and veal, burgers and salads, as well as other original dishes

The Mavrikos brothers opened more locations on Vancouver Island, adhering to the same philosophy that brought them success in the beginning. With the help of their growing young families and new franchisees Nick and Chris Kamaretsos, the company grew to where it is today.

The first Romeo’s opened on Hillside and was warmly embraced by the people of Victoria. An instant success — this location was joined very shortly by a second location downtown on Johnson Street — very popular for lunch and dinner and still remembered fondly for fun-filled late night meals and crowds.

There are currently five Romeo’s locations on Vancouver Island and the family is honoured and blessed to be celebrating over 45 years in the restaurant industry.

We continue to pride ourselves on offering great food and service at a reasonable price. Pizza and pasta recipes continue to stand the test of time and have garnered many awards and accolades.

It is an exciting time for the Romeo’s family as we transition into the next chapter by opening new and remodelled locations. In April of 2012, we returned to the downtown core with our location on the corner of Blanshard and Fisgard Street. This is our biggest location.

Another exciting change has been in Broadmead Village where, after 20 years, in the spring of 2014, we relocated to the mall beside the breezeway. This brand new restaurant has earned our

customers’ loyalty and positive feedback and has exceeded our expectations.

Our Hillside location has also gone through extensive renovations and after only a few months, the feedback and response has been overwhelming. Our Langford location has also just completed months of renovations and we are delighted with the new look.

All four of our Lower Island restaurants have a similar modern look and contemporary feel. It truly is an exciting time for the Romeo’s family as we continue to evolve, and as always, hope our amazing customers will remain right there with us for the ride!

Five locations: Victoria Downtown, Hillside, Duncan, Broadmead Village, Westshore Langford. romeos.ca

THANK YOU VICTORIA 0011645042 ROMEO'S PLACE LTD READERS CHOICE 2018 10 x 152 CMYK, , THANK YOU VICTORIA FOR VOTING FOR US! It’s been an honour and a priviledge to be serving Victoria for over 45 years!

HAPPY NEW YEAR! From the Management and Staff at Romeo’s

VICTORIA DOWNTOWN

HILLSIDE

WESTSHORE

DUNCAN

777 Royal Oak Drive

BROADMEAD

1703 Blanshard St.

1581 Hillside Avenue

2945 Jacklin Road

180 Trans Canada Hwy

250-744-1177

250-383-2121

250-595-0212

250-474-2121

250-746-9964

romeos.ca

ADVERTISING FEATURE

E10 SUNDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2018

timescolonist.com | TIMES COLONIST

Arbutus RV’s 5 Locations’ Team Members are honoured that Vancouver Islanders have chosen us as #1 RV Dealer in the Readers’ Choice Awards 2018

Whatever Your Adventure...

We Have an 0011645088 ROSE LITTLE MANAGEMENT/ARBUTUS RV for it!

Winner - Best RV Dea 10 x 305 CMYK, , SIDNEY | MILL BAY | NANAIMO | PORT ALBERNI | COURTENAY

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SIDNEY 250.655.1119

MILL BAY 250.743.3800

NANAIMO 250.245.3858

TOLL FREE: 1.888.272.8888

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TOLL FREE: 1.888.272.8887

COURTENAY 250.337.2174 TOLL FREE:

1.866.330.2174

Port Alberni 250.724.4648 TOLL FREE:

1.877.724.4648

♦Total Price including freight, excluding available Road Ready Package and Taxes. PAYMENTS based on total price excluding available Road Ready Package, including freight and taxes less 10% down (or equivalent trade). Variable interest rate at the time of calculation 6.99% on approved credit (OAC), amortized over *390 bi-weekly pymts/5/15 term, **520 bi-weekly pymts/5/20 term. Zero down option available on request (on approved credit). Payment deferrals available O.A.C.

TIMES COLONIST | timescolonist.com

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2018

ADVERTISING FEATURE

E11

RV Camping Tops the List Arbutus RV carries the largest retail inventory of RVs of any dealer in B.C.

The Arbutus RV & Marine Sales Ltd. story began over 30 years ago with Craig Little purchasing his first sales location in Mill Bay in 1988.

This location was just down the road from where he has lived for over 60 years, and where he now lives with his wife Rose and daughter Brynn.

Craig knew he wanted to be in business for himself and chose Recreational Vehicle and Boat Sales and Service as his primary focus because he believed it was a good fit for Vancouver Island.

The business was very well received by the community. As the years went by, the focus of Arbutus shifted increasingly to RVs, and the growth continued.

In 1994, the addition of the Nanaimo location occurred after Craig met a couple who were developing an RV Park as well as selling Park Model RVs near the Nanaimo Airport. They approached Craig and asked him if he would like to help them out with sales. After consideration, Craig determined that he would be happy to forge ahead and eventually took the location over.

He immediately expanded it, added a service department and the business took off.

A short 18 months or so passed, and Craig was approached by another dealer in Sidney. By 1996, he owned three locations.

“I was shaking my head a few times wondering what had

happened,” Little says. “I’d have been happy just having the one dealership and now I suddenly had three!” He expanded the lots at all three dealerships and began to bring in exclusive product lines to Vancouver Island from Thor Industries, the number one manufacturer in the world.

In 1998, he was successful in convincing his wife, Rose, who had several years of marketing experience in newspaper and radio, to head up the marketing for the company. This included taking over the publishing of The Island RV Guide – a 56-page magazine that Craig had launched which needed attention and expertise. Rose focussed on creating a marketing strategy that included the development of a website and arbutusrv.ca was created.

In December 2002, the Littles were invited to Calgary to research the RV rental franchise business as an avenue for expansion of their own rental division.

They decided it was not for them and flew back home, landing at the Comox Valley Airport. Since they were in the neighbourhood, Craig wanted to show Rose a piece of property outside of Courtenay (in Merville) that he had been interested in back in 1997. As fate would have it, when they arrived, there was a ‘For Sale’ sign on the corner – immediately across the road from the property Craig was originally interested in. They purchased the

“It’s about having the right people and offering the right service – friendly, courteous service with compassion. We listen to the customer’s needs and offer old-fashioned services to fill them.” property and opened their fourth location in March of 2003.

They reasoned that because they had such a large customer base from the North part of the Island, it would make sense to have another dealership close to service those customers. This thinking proved to be completely on target, and the Courtenay location has grown into one of Arbutus’s busiest. Customer demand prompted the expansion of the service facilities in the spring of 2007. They now boast an additional three service bays to accommodate the needs of the RV-ing public. In 2011, the property next door was purchased, enabling continued growth and selection of RVs being offered.

2003 saw an expansion of the original Mill Bay Sales and Service location to include the property formerly known as Ruby’s Ridge Campground.

In December 2004, Craig found another desirable property in Port Alberni. The reasoning was the same as for the Comox Valley location, Little says, “We have a large client base in the

Alberni Valley and Tofino/Uclulet and outlying areas, and we wanted to offer Port Alberni its first full service RV dealership.”

Arbutus RV opened its doors in July 2005 and sold their first unit before the telephone lines were even installed.

Arbutus RV currently employs over 120 people and continues to thrive far beyond expectations. 2017 was a record sales year and 2018 has once again exceeded expectations and broken records. Little says they carry the largest retail inventory of RVs of any dealer in B.C. Craig is quick to spread around the credit for the success of Arbutus RV. It’s probably the same basic formula as any successful business,” he notes. “It’s about having the right people and offering the right service – friendly, courteous service with compassion. We listen to the customer’s needs and offer oldfashioned services to fill them.

The company website is hugely successful as is their marketing strategy, which includes the successful RVing lifestyle website, IslandRVGuide.com The IslandRVGuide.com has become a go-to digital destination for information on all things RV-related, including tech tips, Island adventure videos, recipes and camper-friendly cooking videos, RV tours, RV finance tips and articles submitted by RV readers.

“The Island RV Guide is filled with local Island RV-ing information and editorial. Also, our YouTube Channel with Island Adventure, TV Tour and RV Tips videos has been incredibly well-received by the Island’s RV enthusiasts. Each day, we’re welcoming new Vancouver Island members to our Facebook community,” says Rose Little.

A few years ago, Arbutus RV began to work with select manufacturers to produce exclusive brands of RVs. This private label line-up can only be found at Arbutus RV’s five Vancouver Island locations. A few current exclusive private label brands they offer are Island Trail, Island Vibe, iTrek, and the newest arrival - Island Pursuit motorhomes. They plan to expand that line of exclusives and will be announcing some very exciting additions as they head into their 31st year in 2019.

“With the growth we’ve experienced,” Rose says, “we don’t have as much down time as we would like, but we love to get out RVing on Vancouver Island as much as we can. It’s an activity we share with our youngest daughter who is now a teen, our eldest daughter and son-in-law and our newest family addition, our grandson.

Camping in an RV is at the top of the list of our families’ favourite things to do!” www.arbutusrv.ca

ADVERTISING FEATURE

E12 SUNDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2018

timescolonist.com | TIMES COLONIST

VESSELL LIQUOR STORE Winner: Liquor Store

A passion for drink culture

CHEERS TO VESSEL, VOTED VICTORIA’S

BEST LIQUOR STORE TWO YEARS IN A ROW!

0011646685 VESSEL LIQUOR STORE LTD Readers Choice Award 5 x 152 CMYK, ,

Since they opened their doors in December 2015, Vessel has welcomed and served a diverse and eclectic clientele. In addition to stocking the core products that their local neighbours rely upon, Vessel’s tight team offers a complete selection of quality products from around the corner and around the globe. They strive to provide outstanding service and value to each customer — from enthusiast to expert.

Managing partner and founder Ross Borland says, “We opened the store to fill a niche in Victoria. We couldn’t find a place where people passionate about drink culture could collaborate, learn and purchase interesting things at fair prices.”

Always evolving, Vessel has made a couple of key changes this year. All canned craft beer is now available as singles. Beer Program Manager Paul Smith says, “the essence of craft beer is experimentation, and our craft beer program allows customers to mix and match different producers and different styles without having to purchase a four- or six-pack”. Vessel has added hard goods to their line-up. They have everything for the home bartender to get

set up, with all the gear to make their favourite cocktails at home. This includes shakers, glassware, ice cube trays, bitters and syrups.

What hasn’t changed this year — all members of Vessel’s staff have achieved a minimum of Level Two in the Wine and Spirits Education Trust (provided by Vessel), and the company funds ongoing beverage education for staff.

“We hire only people that share our passion, unpretentiously, for wine, beer, spirits and cider,” Borland says. The arrangement is aided by The Cru’s Nest, the classroom above the store. Sharon McLean, Vessel’s education director and one of Canada’s leading wine educators, oversees a busy schedule of classes in the space. There are classes aimed at everyone, from beginner to professional masterclasses, and from local beer to cocktails to wine.

“The updated calendar is published on our website and Facebook page, and we have many folks purchasing gift certificates for classes,” notes Borland.

“It’s a rewarding feeling, helping grow beverage culture in this city and seeing the enthusiastic response.” vesselliquor.com

0011645191 PAUL MARA JEWELLERS Reader's Choice Awar 10 x 152 CMYK, ,

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ADVERTISING FEATURE

TIMES COLONIST | timescolonist.com

SIDNEY ALL CARE RESIDENCE A long-term care home located in beautiful Sidney by the Sea.

At Sidney All Care Residence, we care!

We care about your well-being, your health, your happiness and your social life. We strive to make your family feel at home, and the team, an extension of your family — caring for those that mean the most to you and to us. Thanks to the community recognizing how we foster.

Residents and their families love our experienced, dedicated and compassionate care team. Our residents are family, and we do what we can to make moments matter.

Our compassionate, caring registered nursing staff and health care assistants are on-site 24 hours a day to provide the highest level of care. We work collaboratively with medical professionals such as physicians, occupational therapists, dietitians and pharmacists to promote independence, quality of life, emotional health and physical well-being.

Residents enjoy comfortable amenities, delicious home-cooked meals, and a recreation calendar filled with opportunities for fitness, fun, creativity and connection.

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2018

Thank You For the nominations and to all that voted for us in the Readers Choice Awards

We believe in the power of community and family. At Sidney All Care Residence, we go out of our way to make sure our residents that call us home feel at home.

You’ll make new friends and experience a sense of belonging with our team and residents.

Sidney All Care residents consist of a vibrant group of individuals — teachers, artists, engineers, farmers and doctors who have led fulfilled lives and continue to do so within this community.

We’re confident you’re going to love it here, but we’d like to get to know you first. Even if you’re in the “just looking” stage, join us for a tour and complimentary lunch or at one of our life enriching recreation events, and discover why you will love it here.

To book a tour or complimentary lunch, contact: Judy Peterson at: 778-351-2505 or email jpeterson@allcarecanada.ca

0011645939 SIDNEY ALL CARE RESIDENCE readers choice 2018 5 x 152 CMYK, ,

“All care, We care, I care!”

Learn more at: AllCareCanada.ca.

Sidney All Care Residence: Privately offering long term and palliative care.

Proudly offering Long Term & Palliative Care.

All Care, We Care, I Care

2269 Mills Road, Sidney, BC 778 351 2505

allcarecanada.ca

DISCOVERY COFFEE Winner of the 2018 Reader’s Choice Award

Best Coffee House “Our journey for the perfect cup is never-ending” Since day one, Discovery Coffee has valued three things above all else: good coffee, good music and good people.

When it comes to good coffee, Discovery Coffee work tirelessly to source the best beans, to work directly with farmers, and to build positive relationships across the coffee industry. Once they have something they love, they roast and brew the coffee to perfection, always taking care to showcase the uniqueness in every cup.

When it comes to good music, it has to be vinyl and it has to rock.

When it comes to good people, Discovery looks to surround themselves with a team that shares their values and

their vision. From the roastery to their five cafes, from their bakery to their wholesale accounts — Discovery Coffee is what it is because of the people. Oh, and they also have to rock.

“We are nothing without our team and our community, so you can imagine how thrilled we were to find out that our community voted us “Best Coffee House”.”

For 13 years, Discovery Coffee has been proud to bring delicious specialty coffee to Victoria. They are looking forward to the years ahead.

“Thank you, for recognizing us, and for loving what we do as much as we love what we do.” — Discovery Coffee discoverycoffee.com

664 Discovery r St 281 Menzies St 1001 Blanshard St 358 87 Blanshard d St 1964 Oak Bay Ave www.discoverycoffee.com

Best Coffee Shop

IT’S NOT THE CAFFEINE THAT KEEPS US GOING,

0011645962 DISCOVERY COFFEE Readers Choice 5 voting x 152for us in the Thank you for 2018 Times Colonist CMYK, , Readers’ Choice Awards.

IT’S YOU!

E13

E14 SUNDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2018

timescolonist.com | TIMES COLONIST

ADVERTISING FEATURE

KINGFISHER OCEANSIDE RESORT & SPA Readers’ Choice WINNER Island Resort

Stunning Transformation for Kingfisher Resort

0011645093 KINGFISHER OCEANSIDE RESORT & Readers Choice 5 x 152 CMYK, ,

kingfisherspa.com

Comox Valley, BC

Thank you Victoria for voting for us!

We’re honored for your support as finalists in both Best Italian and Best Fine Dining categories.

The newly landscaped Serenity Gardens inspire guests with the healing powers of nature. While meandering along pathways through miniature waterfalls, a stream flowing into a rock bed pond and lush grounds, guests are immersed in a unique, one-of-a-kind experience. In the evening, guests can be found unwinding in the gardens’ Adirondack chairs around the romantic glow of fire bowls.

The Kingfisher opened a new chapter in its history with the completion of the Ocean Courtyard wing. Built in an authentic Westcoast Craftsman style, the Ocean Courtyard’s exterior boasts cedar shakes, post and beams, natural stone columns, and balconies and patios with stunning views.

Thank You Victoria for your Votes!

We truly appreciate you!

1-800-663-7929

The iconic Kingfisher Oceanside Resort & Spa has undergone a stunning transformation. One of the many major changes is to the iconic Pacific Mist Spa. Guests now step into a private sanctuary of tranquility in the new spa lounge, with a candle-lit meditation wall and change rooms, rainfall showers and keyless lockers — an experience unlike any other.

All 14 re-built rooms offer understated elegance to impress the most discerning guest. With quarter-cut white oak built-in furniture and armoires, custom-built by Cascadian Woodtech in Union Bay, handcrafted designed lighting from the company that creates lighting for Disney and the Fairmont properties, and five-star bathrooms showcased by floor to ceiling white Carrara Italian tile, heated floors throughout and rainfall curb-less

showers. Each room is equipped with the latest in technology, with personal concierge arriving in 2019.

It seems fitting that The Kingfisher has been recognized as the Readers’ Choice award winner for Best Island Resort.

“I am honoured to win as this award is voted by the people, and that means a lot to us,” says Bill Brandes, owner of the multiple award-winning resort. “We are humbled, as it means people are noticing all of the hard work that has gone into the Kingfisher. I want to thank my staff, as they are truly phenomenal in creating memorable stays for our guests.”

In the fall of 2019, the Kingfisher will undergo more spectacular updates.

Inspired by some of the world’s top resorts, the north wing will be re-built and rooms will be expanded nearly 200 feet, creating luxurious modern suites.

The lobby will receive a major re-build, with landscaping to the road, and new signage to create a grand entrance to the resort. The Kingfisher Oceanside Resort & Spa’s upgrades and enhancements will ensure getaways will be the most luxuriously unforgettable experiences ever. kingfisherspa.com

Il Covo Trattoria is a memorable and unique Italian dining experience for any occasion from special celebrations to intimate dinner dates. Experience family style dining or the many daily features created by Chef Rafael. Enjoy rustic, authentic Italian cuisine and feel like you’ve walked into a warm, old world Trattoria in Italy.

0011645347 TRATTORIA CUCINA ITALIANA Reader's Choice Awar 10 x 152 CMYK, ,

Dinner from 5:00pm Mon ~ Sun 106 Superior Street | 250.380.0088 | IlCovoTrattoria.ca

TIMES COLONIST | timescolonist.com

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2018

ADVERTISING FEATURE

RUFFELL & BROWN WINDOW FASHIONS Readers’ Choice Finalist

Greater Victoria’s Premier Window Fashion Experts Established in 1987, Ruffell & Brown Window Fashions is Victoria’s innovative leader in the window covering industry.

Their highly trained sales team, support staff and installers are the best in the industry.

BEING SOUTHERN VANCOUVER ISLAND’S ONLY FULL-SERVICE WINDOW COVERING COMPANY THAT PROVIDES A WIDE RANGE OF NAME BRAND MANUFACTURERS AND SUPPLIERS ENABLES RUFFELL & BROWN TO PROVIDE THE RIGHT WINDOW COVERING SOLUTIONS FOR YOUR HOME, BUSINESS AND COMMERCIAL PROJECTS AT THE BEST POSSIBLE PRICE.

Ruffell & Brown provide the expert advice you need to make the optimum decisions for your window covering investment. Their in-house repair and service department ensure they service what they sell right here in Victoria.

Being southern Vancouver Island’s only full-service window covering company that provides a wide range of name brand manufacturers and suppliers enables them to provide the right window covering solutions for your home, business and commercial projects at the best possible prices.

When it comes to owning a home, there are many expenses that you will have to deal with on a regular basis. But one of the things that you have almost total control over is how much you spend on energy and power each month. Ruffell & Brown will help you make changes to your window coverings to keep your utility bills down.

Arrange your free shop-at-home appointment online, call them at: 250-384-1230. Or visit the large showroom to get inspired and experience all that’s available for you to make the right choices. ruffell-brown.com

Thank You for voting for us!

THANK YOU TO ALL OUR VOTERS

YOUR FULL SERVICE ONE STOP SHOP FOR TRAVEL TRAILERS, MOTOR HOMES, CAMPERS AND MORE

0021644887 2019 DUTCHMEN 2019 DUTCHMEN ASPEN TRAIL MOTORS ASPEN1990 TRAIL LTD GALAXY Readers Choice 5 x 152 CMYK, $ $ , STK# 19N0121 MODEL: 2860RL

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($599 DOCUMENTATION FEE & TAX)

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115 BIWKLY

ON APPROVED CREDIT

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2018 DUTCHMEN ASPEN TRAIL STK# 18N0077

2018 DUTCHMEN ASPEN TRAIL STK# 18N0052

MODEL: 2790BHSWE

MODEL: 1900RB

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98 BIWKLY

0011644514 RUFFELL & BROWN INTERIORS LTD Readers Choice Award 5 x 152 CMYK, ,

ON APPROVED CREDIT

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Faux Wood Blinds Wood Blinds Venetian Blinds Roman Shades Vertical Blinds Pleated Shades Cellular Shades Roller Blades Draperies Fabric Treatments Soft Shadings

• • • • • • • • • • •

Valances Sheers Drapery Rods Skylight Shades Solar Shades Motorization Interior Shutters Guaranteed Fit Best Price Policy Repairs & Service Installation Services

• Residential • Commercial

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75 BIWKLY

Payments based on 10% down or equivalent trade 6.99% O.A.C.

For FREE Shop-At-Home Service call

NEW! GREAT SELECTION OF RVs NOW AVAILABLE AT GALAXY MOTORS 1772 Island Hwy, Colwood, 250 478 7603

250.384.1230

ON APPROVED CREDIT

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or visit www.ruffell-brown.com

DUNCAN 250-597-2420 6854 Trans Canada Hwy

www.galaxyrv.net

1-2745 Bridge Street, Victoria Monday to Friday: 9 to 5 • Saturday: 10 to 4 DL#40457

E15

E16 SUNDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2018

Big improvements to winter golf conditions at Cedar Hill Few soils drain fast enough to allow golf to be played right after heavy or prolonged rain, but proper drainage helps speed up the infiltration rate that water moves off the course.

At the Cedar Hill Golf Course, staff have been doing exactly that. “By moving water off the course, the golfer’s experience will be that much more enjoyable,” explains Ian Smith, Golf Course Superintendent.

“We used to have golfers tee off rubber mats and play to temporary greens; now that’s all changed. Golfer’s play from grass tees to regular greens. Better course conditions and a little help from Mother Nature have really helped in our overall

timescolonist.com | TIMES COLONIST

ADVERTISING FEATURE

success.” Over the winter of 2019, additional drainage improvements will be made on holes 12 and 14, and some repair work on 5 and 15.

Smith explains that although this is still “Winter Golf”, the idea of installing drainage and keeping the putting surfaces firm is not only to allow people to come out in the winter, but to extend the shoulder seasons by providing better playing conditions in the late fall and early spring.

You are invited to come this winter and try Cedar Hill during winter conditions and see what you think of these improvements. cedarhillgolfclub.com

CEDAR HILL GOLF COURSE Golf Course (Public) WINNER

Audubon International Cedar Hill Golf Course is working toward an exciting new certification called “The Cooperative Sanctuary Program for Golf Courses.” The certification is provided through Audubon International.

The program is designed to help golf courses blend environmentally responsible practices into the day to day operations of golf course management. Information and guidance is provided to the golf courses in the program, to help them implement stewardship projects and receive recognition for their efforts.

The intention is to provide the best possible playing conditions on the golf course while being mindful of the natural

environment and the wildlife in and around the property.

The program is comprised of six sections that cover each environmental component of the Audubon Cooperative Sanctuary Program. Golf courses receive credit for each section. After all six sections are complete, the golf course receives certification as a designated Audubon Cooperative sanctuary.

The Cooperative Sanctuary program takes a few years to complete, as the requirements are met one section at a time. Cedar Hill Golf Course has just finished their site assessment and environmental plan, earning them a certificate in Environmental Planning.

0011644499 CEDAR HILL GOLF COURSE Readers Choice Award 10 x 152 CMYK, ,

Thank You

for your vote!

Cedar Hill Golf Course has won the Times Colonist Readers Choice Award for the Best Golf Course in Victoria.

Call: 250-475-7150 | saanich.ca/golf

TIMES COLONIST | timescolonist.com

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2018

ADVERTISING FEATURE

E17

PARKER JOHNSTON Winner of the 2018 Reader’s Choice Awards

Hard work and dedication to customer service

0011645316 house calls since 1950.

PARKERMaking JOHNSTON LIMITED Locally owned 3rd generation and heading towards readers 2018in both 70 years.

We take pride inchoice serving our community residential and commercial services.

5 x 152 We truly appreciate and value your support CMYK, , for voting us #1 Roofing Company!

Parker Johnston was founded in 1950, and quickly established itself as a firm with integrity and expertise.

Founding partners, Walter Parker and Bill Johnston, offered roofing and insulation services, tiling, flooring and building supplies.

Walter Parker’s son, Dan Parker, joined the Company in 1968 and quickly went to work learning the ropes. Parker Johnston continued to thrive and grow through a lot of hard work and dedication to customer service. They eventually expanded their services from the initial regions of Greater Victoria and Duncan to include the entire Island. They are now proud to be serving Calgary.

In 2001, Rod Parker became a partner in the family business. Today, he continues the legacy created by his grandfather and father.

As one of Vancouver Island’s largest family-owned roofing contractors, Parker Johnston Industries Ltd. is able to offer a wide variety of roofing solutions for both residential and commercial applications.

With our proven track record for design, installation and maintenance of roofs of all types, they ensure that each and every job is not only completed in a timely and professional manner, but exceeds their own high standards.

Parkerjohnstonroofing.com

By 1999, the company has altered its focus to specialize in roofing and cladding. They had become a third generation business with the addition of Rod Parker. Parker Johnston has since grown to become one of the largest roofing and cladding contractors in B.C., with over 200 employees.

250-382-9181 www.parkerjohnstonroofing.com 6791 Oldfield Rd., Saanichton B.C.

COIT CLEANING AND RESTORATION Thank you for voting for us!

100 per cent customer satisfaction – guaranteed!

Coit Cleaning Services has been serving the Greater Victoria region for over 40 years. With that kind of experience, it’s no wonder that they have been chosen a Readers Choice finalist for carpet cleaning for 2018.

But carpet cleaning is not the only service that the experts at Coit perform. They are also skilled specialists in cleaning upholstery, area rugs, air ducts, draperies and blinds, and tile and grout as well.

Combine this with a 100 per cent satisfaction guarantee and you can see why they have such a loyal following.

One of the newer cleaning services they provide is tile and grout cleaning.

Utilizing high pressure and a powerful vacuum, they are able to safely clean tiled surfaces such as flooring, showers and countertops. And their ColourSeal service really provides a WOW factor, allowing for a consistent and beautiful, waterproof appearance. With Coit ColourSeal, you can even change the colour of your grout – it’s like you have re-grouted your tiles.

Air duct cleaning is another popular service that Coit provides. There is great awareness among consumers now of maintaining your indoor air quality.

Indoor contaminants like dust, dirt, pollen and animal dander get pulled into your heating system every time your furnace turns on. Over time, these contaminants build up inside your ductwork, making your air duct system a breeding ground for mold spores, bacteria, mildew and other microbes, which are then re-circulated throughout your home, impacting the health and comfort of your family. Coit’s specially trained technicians have the knowledge and experience to remove these harmful contaminants from your home.

Mission statement Coit is committed to provide the highest quality, guaranteed services with pride, efficiency and convenience for their valued customers – just one example of their determination to not only meet, but exceed customer expectations. ca.coit.com/victoria

0011644706 Air D u ct Ca rpet & % COIT SERVICES -%GENTLE Clea n in g U ph o lstery Clea n in g O FF O FF CARE Readers Choice Award Tile & G ro u t o r N a tu ra l n in g % W o o d Flo o r&Clea % 5 x 152 Sto n e Clea n in g & Co a tin g S ea lin g CMYK, , O FF O FF

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E18 SUNDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2018

timescolonist.com | TIMES COLONIST

ADVERTISING FEATURE

OAK BAY BEACH HOTEL WINNER: Readers’ Choice Awards

Your VIP experience.

Reimagined.

Thank you

for voting us Victoria’s Best Hotel 2018

0011647983 OAK BAY BEACH 5 x 152 AAA0

Nestled on the shores of the Pacific Ocean in prestigious Oak Bay, just minutes away from the quaint boutique shops, cafes and galleries of Oak Bay Village, the new Oak Bay Beach Hotel is a worthy legacy to its renowned predecessor and features world-class services such as heated seaside mineral baths, a seaside spa, The Snug pub, live dinner theatre performances, fine dining and more.

Our large, well-appointed guest rooms and suites offer complimentary parking, Wi-Fi, spa-inspired bathrooms with separate shower and soaker tub, kitchen or kitchenette, fireplace and full access to our heated seaside mineral baths, steam sauna and fitness centre.

As a full service property, you may enjoy our award winning concierge service,

reservations required Boathouse Spa, traditional Snug Pub, cozy Kate’s Café or our fine dining room.

The Boathouse Spa & Baths is a full service seaside spa with heated mineral baths like no other in the region. Indulge yourself with a manicure or pedicure in our dedicated bright, but relaxing rooms, or select a Boathouse service of one hour or more and enjoy the added privilege of access to our mineral baths, eucalyptus steam sauna and fitness centre.

Seasonally, hotel and Boathouse Spa guests may also enjoy the licenced Boathouse Kitchen, offering a menu of fresh and locally sourced items.

Let us provide the perfect vantage point from which to experience the best of the Pacific Northwest. oakbaybeachhotel.com

Learn more about our BC Resident Rate at

WWW.OAKBAYBEACHHOTEL.COM

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TIMES COLONIST | timescolonist.com

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2018

E19

SUNNY CARPET, FURNACE & AIR DUCT CLEANING WINNER: Readers’ Choice Awards With a client list stretching from Victoria to Nanaimo and all the way to the West Coast, Sunny Carpet Furnace & Air Duct Cleaning has become, during the past quarter century, a true industry leader. But it all began on a much smaller scale.

“It began as a cleaning service, but we’ve grown over the years. Today, in addition to our main office in Victoria, we operate offices in Duncan, Nanaimo, Parksville and Port Alberni,” explained Perry Chaggar, Sunny Carpet’s founder and owner.

Launched in Victoria in 1992, Sunny Carpet Furnace & Air Duct Cleaning began its operations as a general cleaning service, with additional skills, service and technologies.

“When we started out in 1992, we were basically a janitorial service, working for businesses and other commercial clients.

By 1996, we had added carpet cleaning to the list of things we did for our clients, and that was really the start of our company’s growth,” he explained, adding that furnace and duct cleaning services were introduced in 2000.

“From our Victoria office, we’ll go as far as Duncan, while our guy in Nanaimo will cover the area from Duncan to Parksville, depending on how busy he is,” Chaggar explained.

Sunny Carpet Furnace & Air Duct Cleaning operates a fleet of three vehicles specifically tasked with furnace and duct cleaning duties as well as six designated carpet cleaning vans.

“We never really planned for the growth — it just sort of happened as we started adding extra services.

Training and experience is another of the company’s primary assets. For example, Sunny Carpet employs a team of

National Air Duct Cleaners Association (NADCA) fully certified specialists for all furnace and duct cleaning.

Sunny Carpet has also become the go-to company for a number of property management firms in the region, many of which have been using the their services for years.

“I’ve been able to show these companies just how different we are from other providers. For example, we never play bait and switch — we’ll never say one thing and do another. After this long, and using our systems, clients know what they will be getting and what they will pay. There’s never any sticker shock; there are no unpleasant surprises or hidden charges. Being open, honest and upfront — that’s the only way to do business, and that’s how we’ve done business right from the start,” he said.

Having the best equipment and providing the best service are central to long term success. For example, the company’s furnace and duct cleaning units are equipped with some of the most modern and powerful equipment in the region, while on the service side of the ledger, putting the customer first is always top priority.

“It’s all about service. If there are any complaints or problems, I take care of these personally. Besides, I still like to get out of the office and into the field. That’s what I’ve always done, and I still enjoy meeting the clients and doing the work,” he said.

Serving the region for more than 25 years, expanding from a local janitorial firm into a regional carpet, furnace and duct cleaning service, Sunny Carpet Furnace & Air Duct Cleaning looks forward to the opportunities the future has to offer. sunnycarpetductcleaning.com

ATLAS AUDIO VIDEO UNLIMITED WINNER: Readers’ Choice Awards

Celebrating 50 years serving Victoria Voted two years in a row as the Times Colonist Readers’ Choice Award Winner for Best Home Electronics Store, Atlas Audio Video Unlimited also celebrated its 50th Anniversary this year of serving the Victoria area.

Atlas, although independently owned, is part of a large buying group, allowing them to be price competitive with even the largest online and big box retailers.

They have managed to do this while retaining the high quality of personal service you would expect from a family owned, locally operated store.

The sales and installation professionals at Atlas are highly experienced, many who have served in the electronics industry for decades.

Atlas offers a unique mix of the latest cutting edge home electronics, ranging from entry level to high-end. Each brand

THANK YOU 0011645944 VICTORIA! SUNNY CARPET CLEANING readers choice 2018 For Voting Us 5 x#1 152 Carpet Cleaning CMYK, , Company LOCALLY OWNED & CELEBRATING 25 YEARS OF BUSINESS SERVING OUR 5 LOCATIONS ON VANCOUVER ISLAND

VICTORIA

DUNCAN

NANAIMO

250.384.7951

250.746.1888

250.755.1128

PARKSVILLE QUALICUM

PORT ALBERNI UCLUETET

250.954.3491

250.724.0099

sunnycarpetandairductcleaning.com

Thank You!

and model they carry are carefully selected for a winning combination of class-leading performance, exceptional value and reliability.

By offering premium products, Atlas staff have gained the experience to select the best performing products at any given price point.

Careful thought has gone into selecting the best cabling and power management products, so Atlas customers get the most from their purchases.

Atlas offers TVs, home theatre, audio components, high-end audio, headphones, portable audio, wireless audio and home automation systems.

The expert technical team at Atlas can handle everything — from a basic TV installation to the most complex custom home and commercial A/V systems. atlasavu.ca

WINNER Best Home Electronics Store

0011643802 ATLAS AUDIO VIDEO UNLIMITED F o rReaders v o t i n g A tChoicel a s a s VWinn ictoria’s B e s t E l e5c txr o152 nics Store.

CMYK, ,

Celebrating our 50th Anniversary serving the Victoria Area

966 YATES STREET 250.385.2712

VICTORIA, BC V8V 3M2 ATLASAVU.CA

ADVERTISING FEATURE

E20 SUNDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2018

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SITKA LAW Readers’ Choice Award Finalist

Client feedback says it all Thank you, Victoria, for voting Sitka Law Group as one of the top three law firms in the City for 2018. It is an honour to serve our clients and we look forward to continuing to serve the community in 2019!

We appreciate the feedback that our clients have provided us…

“The office was so friendly, we got a chance to meet with other partners and staff despite their busy day. It would appear they foster a team approach and do things a bit differently than other law firms! If you are reading this — just reach out and you'll know what I’m talking about.”

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

“Super helpful and knowledgeable; knew exactly what I needed and made the process

easy and painless. They went out of their way to help me. Thank you!”

“We love Sitka! They were so helpful and insightful when starting our business from the ground up. We'd highly recommend to anyone!”

“I had a wonderful experience working with this firm. They were knowledgeable, available, experienced and very pleasant.

They truly went above and beyond! I would recommend them to anyone!”

“We used Sitka Law for the purchase of our home. We found them to be incredibly knowledgeable and helpful through this daunting process. Our first purchase wouldn't have gone so well without the advice and guidance of both our lawyer and the wonderful staff. Would absolutely recommend Sitka Law to our friends and family.”

“We enjoyed dealing with Sitka Law. Our life is easier with professionals who act on our behalf and defend our interests. Sitka is a place where we are taken care of as clients and they go above and beyond to help.”

“My family physician referred me to Sitka law group after my car accident. I had been trying to deal with ICBC myself and it was proving very difficult. I truly felt my lawyer cared and was looking out for my best interests. I trusted my lawyer completely, and because of this experience, I will not hesitate to use Sitka Law Group in the future for any other needs. Thanks!”

“The whole team there is extremely knowledgeable, young and full of energy to keep the subject of law that little bit more exciting! Thanks for all your help, guys. I would recommend them to anyone needing legal assistance.” sitkalaw.ca

Thank You Victoria!

SITKA LAW GROUP

0011646644 SITKA LAW GROUP Readers Choice Award 10 x 152 CMYK, ,

Let us change the way you think about lawyers.

202 – 3750 Shelbourne Street, Victoria, B.C. 778-265-2677 sitkalaw.ca

TIMES COLONIST | timescolonist.com

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2018 E21

ADVERTISING FEATURE

FIRESIDE GRILL WINNER Sunday Brunch WINNER Fine Dining WINNER Patio WINNER Happy Hour

Iconic Fireside Grill wins four Readers Choice Gold Awards The Fireside Grill has become an iconic favourite when it comes to Victoria’s restaurant scene. Nestled amongst meticulously maintained gardens and a grove of Gary oak trees, the Fireside Grill offers old world elegance with a new world flair.

The Fireside Grill prides itself in offering a dining experience that is sophisticated, yet approachable. Meals are always served

with a combination of superb, friendly service and quality, locally sourced ingredients.

of the patios with a cocktail.

There is something to please everyone.

core, this lovingly restored, Tudor-style heritage home is in a league of its own.

Whether it’s the seasonal three course Farm to Table dinner menu — eaten in the dining room and paired with a nice glass of wine, the signature Fireside Burger — topped with Truffle Crab, as you sit by one of the fireplaces nursing a pint, or a series of small shareable plates enjoyed in the lounge or on one

Well-known for their extensive ‘All You Can Eat’ Sunday brunch buffet, Fireside Grill has been honoured for the past two years to win ‘Best Brunch’. They have also been awarded ‘Best Fine Dining’ in the ‘Best Patio’ and ‘Best Happy Hour’!

“We truly believe that success can be found when you invest in all things local. It’s important that we appreciate and support our staff, our customers and our community. With so many wonderful restaurants in Victoria, we like to approach our food and service in a manner that sets us apart.

Centrally located and only 10 minutes from the Downtown

“Thank you to our staff, for working hard and sharing our vision, and to our amazing customers, for supporting us and choosing the Fireside as one of their favourite places to dine.”

Open year round for lunch, dinner and Sunday brunch, Fireside Grill is the perfect venue for your next romantic meal, small group gatherings, and private parties. firesidegrill.com

TIMES COLONIST READER’S CHOICE AWARDS

Hardest Working MLA

Carole James, mla

VICTORIA – BEACON HILL

My 0011643980 sincere thanks CAROLE JAMES, MLA COMto the people of Victoria MUNITY for this award.

Readers Choice x 152 I am5honoured , to serveCMYK, as your MLA.

0011644201 FIRESIDE GRILL Readers Choice Award 5 x 152 CMYK, ,

THANK YOU! Fireside Grill is proud to be voted the Times Colonist Readers’ Choice Award Winner in 4 categories:

BEST FINE DINING BEST BRUNCH BEST PATIO 1084 Fort Street Victoria, BC V8V 3K4 250 -952-4211 Carole.James.MLA@leg.bc.ca www.CaroleJamesMLA.ca

BEST HAPPY HOUR SUNDAY BRUNCH | LUNCH | DINNER | LOUNGE Open 7 days a week – Plenty of FREE parking 4509 W. Saanich Rd, Victoria Ph: 250.479.1222

www.firesidegrill.com

E22 SUNDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2018

timescolonist.com | TIMES COLONIST

ADVERTISING FEATURE

0011644530 MCCALL GARDENS FUNERAL Choice Award GreaterReaders Victoria for voting McCall Gardens as your 5 x 76 Readers’ Choice Funeral Home two years in a row!CMYK, ,

Thank You

ROYAL OAK: 4665 Falaise Dr.

DOWNTOWN: 1315 Cook St.

250-385-4465 MCCALLGARDENS.COM

126 DOUGLAS STREET, VICTORIA

0011645926 BEACON DRIVE INN LTD Readers Choice Winne 5 x 76 CMYK, ,

BEST B EST ICE ICE CREAM CREAM Thank you for your votes Victoria!

You nominated, you voted, and we listened!

In all 102 categories!

Welcome to the Times Colonist’s second annual Readers' Choice Awards, our opportunity to join readers in saluting the very best of the year.

organization recognized in this year’s Readers’ Choice Awards is making a difference in our region — from one end of the Island to the other, and everything in between.

A huge thank you to all of our readers who nominated the wonderful and vast array of businesses and organizations worthy of recognition.

And also, to each one of you who collectively cast your thousands of votes – your input allowed us to recognize the best in more than 102 individual categories. We couldn’t have done it without you!

From your favourite beach and vitamin store to your favourite yoga studio and most loved restaurant — we are very pleased to share their successes with you.

With at least the top three winners recognized in each category, there’s an amazing 306 awards in all.

Each person, business and

You will find more than a few familiar faces amongst our winners. We hope to introduce you to a few new ones to discover, too.

Congratulations to the winners of the 2018 Times Colonist Readers' Choice Awards. See the complete list and find links to their businesses at: timescolonist.com

Cold Comfort Second Place Winner for Best Ice Cream!

0011647001 Thank You COLD COMFORT A Heartfelt thank you to everyone who Readers Choice Thank voted for us, we truly appreciate your valued support 5 x 42 Still “doing whatever the hell we feel like since 2010” CMYK, , 1115 N Park Street #2, Victoria

(778) 433-5215

Get $200* when you join.

NOT A CREDIT UNION MEMBER? Open a new account with Coastal Community Credit Union and set up a recurring automatic deposit within 12

0011645200 $200* in your new account!

COASTAL COMMUNITY CREDIT UNION ALREADY A MEMBER? Reader's Choice Awar Refer a friend to Coastal Community 10 x 152 and get $50*!

CMYK, , Visit getyourshare.ca/cccu, one of our three locatiions weeks of registering for Get Your Share. We’ll deposit

in the CRD or any Coastal Community Branch.

EAGLE CREEK VILLAGE

FORT STREET

110 - 17 Helmcken Rd

762 Fort St

GOLDSTREAM VILLAGE 752A Goldtream Ave

*Some conditions apply. The New Member Promotion is open to residents of BC who (i) have reached at least 17 years of age; (ii) have not been a member of a credit union in BC at any time since December 31, 2014; and (iii) have not participated in the New Member Promotion or any other Get Your Share™ promotion, since April 4, 2013, all as determined by Central 1 in its sole discretion. Employees of a BC credit union or a subsidiary of a BC credit union are not eligible to participate in the New Member Promotion. The Referring Member Promotion is open to residents of BC who: (i) have reached at least 17 years of age; and (ii) be a member of and have an open chequing or savings account in good standing at a BC credit union.

TIMES COLONIST | timescolonist.com

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2018

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SIZZLING TANDOOR INDIAN FOOD Readers Choice 2018 WINNER

Deliciously Popular!

Sizzling Tandoor is proud to serve you at any of their three locations. Each location offers a different experience, and all serve the same authentic Indian cuisine and signature drinks.

All locations are equipped with a full service bar featuring signature cocktails created by cocktail guru, Shawn Soole.

Most recently, the original Sizzling Tandoor on Johnson Street was updated with a long 10-seat bar and welcoming decor that resembles British Colonial times.

The long white marble bar makes for a cozy spot to sneak away on your lunch break to grab a quick bite, or to snag a

spot in the evening for a more upbeat experience.

When you stop by, be sure to try the crowd favourite cocktails — the Turmeric Sour and Aamb Panna. Don’t forget to ask to have a taste of the house infused vodkas. Additionally, there is a never ending supply of Prosecco and local craft beers on tap.

Sizzling Tandoor continues to prove itself popular with the lunch crowd. With its fairly priced all-you-can-eat buffet, you can try everyone’s favourite Indian dishes.

Sizzling Tandoor is a staple, not only in the central downtown area, but in the

Sizzling Tandoor features a royal array of authentic North Indian cuisine. We are committed to preserving the culture and tradition of the region with the utmost standards within culinary experiences. Our versatile menu offers a selection of fresh and natural ingredients, wholesome sauces, and flavourful spices. Following the success of our first downtown location in 2012, we have been named the Best Indian Restaurant in Victoria for six years running.

beautiful and bustling Uptown shopping centre and the up-and-coming Westshore Town Centre. Sizzling Tandoor is a great option for those with allergies or dietary restrictions. The restaurant is very popular amongst vegan and gluten-friendly diners because the majority of the dishes can be made without dairy or gluten. Indian cuisine is also a great option for those looking for a variety of vegetarian options.

Sizzling Tandoor has implemented environmentally friendly initiatives throughout the past years by offering a 10 per cent recycling discount on take out paper bags, and by using biodegradable take out containers. Most recently, Sizzling

Tandoor has gone straw-less and eliminated the use of plastic bags entirely.

The restaurant is always researching new ways to play their part in reducing the environmental issues that surround us today.

The Bawa family and staff are honoured to be the Winner in the Times Colonist Readers Choice Awards and want to thank the community for their continued support and loyalty.

To keep up to date, like their Facebook page: Sizzling Tandoor Victoria, or follow them on Instagram: @sizzlingtandoor_ or visit their website: sizzlingtandoor.ca

At Sizzling Tandoor we assure memorable and personalized service delivered with a smile.

Each dish is prepared with pride and served with care: the highest quality at a reasonable point. Immersing yourself in a culinary journey that will leave you and those in your company in a state of relaxation and satisfaction.

Tandoor means “clay oven.” It is traditionally used for the baking of bread, meat, poultry and fish. The clay oven - for oil and fat-free cooking - is practical and energyefficient. Today’s taste and health conscious consumers will find Tandoor cooking truly compatible and modern.

All of our food is natural and freshly-prepared daily on the premises with no additives or preservatives. Our Chef’s endeavor to create a large variety of savory clay oven barbecued dishes and exotic curries for your tasting journey.

At Sizzling Tandoor we assure memorable and personalized service delivered with a smile. Each dish is prepared with pride and served with care; the highest quality at a reasonable point. Immersing yourself in a culinary journey that will leave you and those in your company in a state of relaxation and satisfaction.

0011647242 SIZZLING TANDOOR RESTAURANT Winner Indian Food R 10 x 152 CMYK, ,

Parissa, Gurinder, Narpinder and Kirn Welcome guests to Sizznling Tandoor

To keep up to date with us, like our Facebook page: Sizzling Tandoor Victoria follow us on Instagram: @sizzlingtandoor_ or visit our website: www.sizzlingtandoor.ca.

DOWNTOWN - 637 Johnson Street: 250-388-5450 UPTOWN - 123–3600 Uptown Boulevard: 778-265-7775 WESTSHORE - 2955 Phipps Road: 778-265-9308

E24 SUNDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2018

timescolonist.com | TIMES COLONIST

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Caring for Our Community

HEART PHARMACY Readers’ Choice Award WINNER In 2014, Heart Pharmacy changed its name to better reflect its values and mission. As a family-owned and operated business, the goal was to become a pharmacy that dispensed the love and care of a family — to the community.

To be honoured today by our customers and by the Reader’s Choice Awards, as winner of Best Pharmacy, is an accolade that brings the Heart Pharmacy team tremendous pride.

This award validates and affirms for us, that our desire and mission to serve the community is indeed being felt.

Caring for the community and for customers is what Naz Rayani, Heart Pharmacy’s founder, cultivated in his many years as a pharmacist. Heart Pharmacy’s mission today is about honouring that, recommitting to that force of love, and conveying that message to the communities we serve.

Naz’s love has been contagious, and today, we pride ourselves on being a team of dedicated and compassionate staff of pharmacy and front store team members.

Loving care is our driving force, and defines how we do business — namely, by providing every customer the time and space to feel heard and attended to.

We are truly grateful for the recognition bestowed upon our team by this award, and it is an encouragement to all of us to do even better to bring our community the patient-centred love and care that sets Heart Pharmacy apart. heartpharmacy.com

0011645318 RAYANI DRUGS LTD Readers Choice 10 x 152 CMYK, ,

TIMES COLONIST | timescolonist.com

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SUNDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2018

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WINNERS’ EDITION INSIDE:

Winners, Finalists & Profiles from all 102 Categories

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SHADES OF WHITE WINNER: Readers’ Choice

JOHN’S AUTOBODY WINNER: Readers Choice

#1 in Auto Body Repair in Victoria

Victoria’s top Bridal Boutique

Your car will look like new again

“Thank you Victoria for voting us the #1 Auto Body Repair, and a huge thank you for your trust, faithfulness and business over the past 35 years.

Locally owned and operated, we treat each car we work on like it’s our own. We are dedicated to providing quality work that exceeds expectation — every time. Our repair services include collision repair, custom paint and body, windshield repair and windshield replacement.”

— Ashok (Ash) Dhaul and Harpal (Paul) Kang, owners and operators of John’s Auto body. Phone: 250-388-6733.

WITH THE NEW YEAR, THERE ARE HUNDREDS OF NEW BRIDES AND HUNDREDS OF NEW BRIDAL DESIGNS, WHICH MEANS THERE ARE EVEN MORE STYLES FOR THE FRESHLY ENGAGED TO CHOOSE FROM. IT MAY SEEM LIKE A DREAM COME TRUE FOR A BRIDE-TO-BE.

Offering Vancouver Island the biggest and best selection of bridal and bridesmaid dresses, Shades of White brings the most exclusive collections yet to our 2019 brides.

Curated with the Island Bride in mind and receiving hundreds of new styles now for this upcoming season, there is a look to steal your heart in nearly every size, budget and look you can dream of.

Couture Bridal designs from $800 to $5,000, and everywhere in between.

Gowns and accessories for your moms

and maids and personalized service offered by-appointment with nearly 30 years of experience you can trust.

Ethereal Romance, Timeless Elegance, Boho-Inspired, Luxe Fabrics and cuttingedge designs – most of which you won’t see anywhere else on our beautiful Isle.

We look forward to meeting you and offering our product and service to your extraordinary day!

Visit us at: shadesofwhite.com or find us on Facebook and Instagram.

Phone: 250-475-1220.

Located on 546 Dupplin Rd., across from Mayfair Mall, John’s Auto body shares a lot with their sister company, D.K. Motors, which specializes in used cars and trucks. They finance all types of vehicles and will work with their lenders to find you the best possible rate. Also, they receive fresh cars on a weekly basis and will buy your car at a competitive price. dkmotors.ca (250-391-1996).

regardless of the outcome of your accident. Their honest approach, courtesy car service and warranties set them apart.

Life after a car accident can be stressful.

If you’re looking for hassle-free vehicle repair services, bring your car to John’s Auto Body in Victoria. Their collision repair experience and technicians are fully certified, so you can rest assured you’ll get your car back looking like new.

From painting to structural straightening, their body shop handles all of your collision repair needs. Give them a call to book an appointment, or go to their website to get in touch with them for a free estimate. johnsautobody.ca

If you’ve recently been in an accident, you can trust your collision repair to John’s Auto Body. The certified technicians have provided thousands of customers in Victoria with thorough, detailed auto body repairs at affordable prices for over 35 years. They repair a wide variety of makes and models and take both ICBC and private claims, so they can help,

THANK YOU VICTORIA!!

0011646409 SHADES OF WHITE Readers Choice featu 5 x 152 CMYK, ,

Thank0011645944 you for voting us # SUNNY CARPET 1 Auto Body RepairCLEANING in Victoria readers choice Locally owned and operated John’s2018 Auto body has been serving Victoria for over 35 years.

5 x 152 Located on the same lot as sister company D.K. CMYK, , vehicles.

Motors, selling quality used

Thank you Victoria for voting Shades of White #1 HARPAL K ANG

JOHN’S AUTO BODY AND AUTO SALVAGE 546 Dupplin Road, Victoria BC 250-388-6733 www.johnsautobody.ca

Shades of White Bridal Vancouver Island’s Premier Bridal Retailer 3497 Saanich Road, Victoria BC shadesofwhite.com 250-475-1220

ASHOK DHAUL

D.K. MOTORS 546 Dupplin Road, Victoria BC 250-391-1996 www. dkmotors.ca

TIMES COLONIST | timescolonist.com

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2018

ADVERTISING FEATURE

F3

Thank you Victoria, for your support!

SCAN DESIGNS Thank you, Victoria!

ScanDesigns is honoured to be voted as a finalist in the 2018 Times Colonist Readers Choice Awards as your furniture store of choice. Since 1984, ScanDesigns has been serving Vancouver Island and providing quality furniture to its many loyal customers. We are a 100 per cent B.C. owned company. Our roots are Scandinavian modern (teak and rosewood furniture), but as time evolved, our focus has become contemporary modern furniture.

For over 10 years, our home has been in a spacious 35,000 square foot building situated in Millstream Village in Langford, with plenty of parking. We share the

building with our sister company, Muse & Merchant, which specializes in eclectic blend of styles to furnish every room of the house. In addition to our Langford location, we operate stores in Nanaimo, Coquitlam, Richmond, Langley and Kelowna.

We are a one-stop furniture store with all the furniture you would need for your living room, dining room, bedroom and office. Our strength is our knowledgeable, experienced sales staff, selection of quality furniture, and the superb in-house delivery service.

For a truly inspirational, unique and enjoyable experience, shop in our very friendly relaxed store atmosphere. The showroom is setup in room settings for an easier shopping experience. Our mix and match allows you to fit your room

and décor and therefore dining tables, chairs and china cabinets are all sold separately, as are beds, dressers and mattresses. For your kitchen counter we carry a large selection of bar and counter stools in wood and metal.

Scandinavian and expensive but that is far from the truth. Visit our showroom and you will be amazed at our selection, prices and value. We look forward to serving new and past customers alike in the very near future.

For over a quarter century, ScanDesigns has had the privilege of being a retailer of the world famous Norwegian Ekornes/ Stressless line of furniture. Today, we hold the distinction of being Canada’s largest Stressless retailer of this unsurpassed quality product. All Stressless models have one thing in common and that is quality and comfort. Visit our showroom to test drive your chair today.

scandesigns.com Scan Designs is a one-stop furniture store with all the furniture you would need for your living room, dining room, bedroom and office.

Again, our staff and management say thanks to all those who voted for us as their furniture store of choice, and to those who didn’t, our name may sound

0011644490 SCAN DESIGNS 1983 LTD DESIGNED FOR YOUR COMFORT Readers Choice Home 10 x 152 CMYK, , Ottoman not included

625 SECTIONAL LEATHER

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Also Available as a sectional

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NOW $2198

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LEATHER

Thank You Voters!

5229 SECTIONAL

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NOW $2698

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LEATHER

COQUITLAM 1400 United Blvd 604.524.3444

LANGLEY 20429 Langley By-Pass 604.530.8248

SCANDESIGNS.COM

|

RICHMOND 12551 Bridgeport Rd 604.273.2971

LEATHER

KELOWNA 1912 Spall Rd 250.860.7603

SCANDESIGNSFURNITURE

NANAIMO 1711 Bowen Rd 250.753.6361

VICTORIA 661 McCallum Rd 250.475.2233

SCANDESIGNS_FURNITURE

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timescolonist.com | TIMES COLONIST

ADVERTISING FEATURE

Thank you Victoria!

BEACON LAW Readers’ Choice Awards WINNER

Not your average law firm Del Elgersma and Lianne Macdonald started Beacon Law in 2000 with the goal of providing a unique way to deliver quality legal services in the areas of real estate, business law and wills and estates.

They began by identifying and prioritizing their core values. These include a deep care for their clients and staff; striving for excellence; being accessible, forthright and fair; and a commitment to integrity and the highest ethical standards of practice.

Together, with their associate Kelvin Scheuer and their highly experienced team, Del and Lianne pride themselves on having built a successful business based on these values, and on consistently offering trusted advice and outstanding service that ensures an exceptional experience with their firm.

These factors seem to be working. The firm has been voted the top choice in the Victoria Times Colonist Readers’ Choice Awards for the second year in a row, and

were voted the #1 choice for legal services on the Saanich Peninsula for six years running!

What makes Beacon Law Centre unique?

They provide practical advice you can trust — in plain language. They have three convenient locations to serve you.

Their quotes for work are provided by the job, not by the hour. And anonymous client surveys give top marks for friendliness of the lawyers and staff, value for money, prompt service and plain language communication.

If you are buying or selling a home, starting a business, or need help with a will or estate, give Beacon Law a call.

They will help you make the best decisions for you and your family.

Visit: beaconlaw.ca to see why they are not your average law firm.

ROYAL OAK: 140-4392 West Saanich Rd. SIDNEY: 104-9717 Third St. BRENTWOOD BAY: 5-7115 W. Saanich Rd. 250-656-3280.

0021645005 BEACON LAW 5 x 152 AAA0 We are delighted to be voted again the #1 Choice for Legal Services in Victoria!

LIANNE MACDONALD AND DEL ELGERSMA FOUNDED BEACON LAW IN 2000.

Business Law • Wills & Estates • Real Estate 140-4392 West Saanich Road, Victoria 104-9717 Third Street, Sidney 5-7115 West Saanich Road, Brentwood Bay

250.656.3280 • beaconlaw.ca

Thank You. 1144 Fort Street Victoria

Happy New Year

0011644204 TO ALL OUR MANY VALUED CLIENTS NEWPORT REALTY Readers Choice Award 10 x 152 CMYK, , 2444 Beacon Avenue Sidney

NewportRealty.com We applaud the devoted volunteers in organizations that help those in need... Families, Youth, Seniors, the Disadvantaged, the Challenged.

Newport Sidney is sponsoring a Benefit Concert ‘Sidney’s Got Soul’ Thurs. Feb 28 at the Mary Winspear Centre in support of the SAANICH PENINSULA COMMUNITY FOUNDATION.

TIMES COLONIST | timescolonist.com

UNITED FLOORS WINNER Readers Choice

Serving Victoria and Sidney for over 30 years United floors is honoured to be voted as the #1 Flooring Store Winner in the 2018 Times Colonist Readers Choice Award. We are your #1 flooring store of choice, with some of the most experienced professionals in the business. United Floors ensures you the best in flooring every time.

Established in Victoria in 1984, United floors has been proudly providing superior customer service, high quality products and an enjoyable shopping experience for over 30 years. We are a

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2018

ADVERTISING FEATURE

diverse company dealing with contractors and new home construction, insurance work and residential home renovations of any size.

We have a large retail showroom display with a vast selection of floor coverings that includes Victoriaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s largest selection of area rugs. We are your total flooring solution.

Mark Houston in Victoria Rick Robinson in Sidney Unitedfloors.ca

u o Y k n a Th . . . a i r o t c i V

Voted as Victoria and Sidneyâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s 0021644847 Best Flooring Store!

SUNDIAL FLOORING LTD Readers Choice Featu 5 x 152 CMYK, ,

Proudly Serving Victoria for 34 Years!

Hardwood - Laminate - Cork - Vinyl - Carpet - Ceramic Area Rugs - Professional Installation Services

For 50 years Megson FitzPatrick has enjoyed operating as an independent insurance brokerage ZLWK URRWV Ä&#x;UPO\ SODQWHG LQ 9LFWRULD DQG D VSDQ that reaches across the country. Our dedication to providing personalized and innovative insurance and risk-management solutions protect the businesses, people and property within the communities we live.

We are driven by our purpose to improve the lives of our Clients, Team and Community and guided by our values to always Set the Bar High, Do the Right Thing and Deliver Results. We strive to provide our clients an exceptional experience at every opportunity..

Personal insurance & auto Uptown #101 3531 Blanshard St. Victoria, BC V8Z 0B9

Shelbourne 3561 Shelbourne St. Victoria, BC V8P 4G8

Wilson #120 174 Wilson St. Victoria, BC V9A 7N6

McKenzie 1116 McKenzie Ave. Victoria, BC V8P 5P5

VICTORIA

SIDNEY

3335C Oak Street

9752 Fourth Street

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From our team, a sincere â&#x20AC;&#x153;THANK YOUâ&#x20AC;? for voting Megson FitzPatrick as your preferred insurance services partner in Victoria!

We truly appreciate your continued support and look forward to partnering with you in the future.

0011646659 MEGSON FITZPATRICK INC Readers Choice Featu 5 x 152 CMYK, ,

Business Division Redbrick 710 Redbrick St., 1st Floor Victoria, BC V8T 5J3 â&#x20AC;&#x153;Improving the lives of our Clients, Team and Community.â&#x20AC;?

PHJVRQÄ&#x;W]SDWULFN FRP 1-250-595-5212

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Improving the lives of our Clients, Team and Community.â&#x20AC;?

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ADVERTISING FEATURE

timescolonist.com | TIMES COLONIST

IRWIN INDUSTRIES WINNER: Readers Choice Award

Irwin Industries

Vancouver Island’s largest installer of exterior home building products Irwin Industries is Vancouver Island’s largest installer of exterior home building products since 1988. What this means for you is the assurance of cost efficient, quality products, an excellent warranty and timely project completion. Irwin Industries employs over 50 professional installers.

Since 1988, Irwin Industries has installed over 10,000 miles of gutters, more than 5,000 square feet of soffit, and have served over 10,000 customers. They have more than 50 skilled employees who bring their vast body of knowledge to every job. Each employee has, on average, 10 years of experience.

Estimates are free. You do not need to be home for an estimate, as long as Irwin’s estimators can get onto the property.

Irwin provides estimates on exterior products such as gutters, downpipes, soffits, siding, gutter guards, leaf traps and steel roofs.

Irwin Industries conducts ongoing internal training programs. Newcomers to the company are required to work with an experienced person until they feel they are ready to work on their own, regardless of their experience with other companies. This ensures they follow Irwin’s very specific professional guidelines. Many of the installers working in the business today began their careers at Irwin.

Why People Choose Irwin Irwin Industries installers are experienced, professional and carefully trained industry leaders.

Industry Leaders Irwin Industries are leaders of the roofing

industry on Vancouver Island. They custom manufacture (through Pro-Tech Exterior Products), distribute and install.

Because they manufacture and install, they see all issues first-hand, and are able to deal with them immediately.

No other company on Vancouver Island offers the same full range of products and institutes the staff training that Irwin does. Basically, they specialize in the hard stuff. Why would anyone in their right mind specialize in difficult projects?

The construction industry is constantly changing and evolving. What is common practice today may be completely different tomorrow. Irwin wants to be on the cutting edge of the industry, not just waiting for someone else to work out solutions to issues that may arise in the industry.

Irwin Industries participates in the formulation of industry standards and policies through their participation in a number of industry organizations.

Professional and Accountable BBB accredited, Irwin Industries are members of industry organizations who enforce standards of practice, including the Vancouver Island Construction Association, Canadian Homebuilders Association, ROMS BC and BC Construction Safety Alliance.

Not just someone on the end of a cell phone, Irwin Industries has an office, a factory, and a full staff. They are committed to the business. Your home will be serviced as promised — without exception. irwinvi.com

0011645103 IRWIN INDUSTRIES Readers Choice 10 x 152 CMYK, ,

THANK YOU! FOR YOUR CONFIDENCE IN US! Proud

to have been serving the needs of Greater Victoria since 1988.

382-5154 irwin@irwinvi.com • irwinvi.com

CALL US FOR THE LAST ROOF YOU’LL EVER NEED!

TIMES COLONIST | timescolonist.com

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2018

ADVERTISING FEATURE

WINDSOR PLYWOOD FINALIST: Readers’ Choice Award

Thank You f or Vot ing us...

Readers’ Choice Award Finalist

Exceptional customer service and competitive pricing SPECIALIZING IN HARD-TO-SOURCE INTERIOR AND EXTERIOR HOME FINISHING PRODUCTS, INCLUDING FLOORING, DOORS, MOULDINGS AND ESPECIALLY EXOTIC HARDWOOD PRODUCTS.

Windsor Plywood Westshore first opened its doors in the Westshore in 1988. They are celebrating 30 years this year. The Windsor team has been helping customers with their doors, floors and so much more ever since.

“Windsor Plywood has its own instore Door Shop that can handle most scenarios,” notes Michael Hanson, who has owned and managed the store since 1995. “We specialize in custom-sized doors to fit almost any opening.

“Whether it’s exterior or interior doors, Windsor makes it work — and within budget.” Hanson notes that even though there are so many door styles available today, “the standard Shaker doors are certainly making a big comeback, and wall mounted barn door looks are the answer to many do-it-yourself problems.

There’s no framing, no painting — just attach the rail system and hang the your door of choice. It’s as easy as 1-2-3.”

Windsor employees cut plywood to size for customers and offer door shop services which cover everything needed to install new doors, including lock sets, hinges, shims and door stops. They offer free estimates and quotes, and install doors and floors. They also visit home and job sites,” he adds.

“We specialize in hard-to-source interior and exterior home finishing products, including flooring, doors, mouldings and especially exotic hardwood products.

A key part of Windsor’s success is its’ emphasis on providing exceptional customer service and competitive pricing.

Windsor Plywood Westhore’s goal is simple — to focus on their customers’ needs. They favour a smaller format that can respond quickly to shifting customer demands and market trends.

“We’re more than a local building supply company; our business model is also very different,” says Hanson. “We carry higher quality, responsibly sourced products. Our staff members are friendly and knowledgeable, and they don’t work on commission or quotas. ” We are part of a large franchise buying group which gives us opportunities to pass the savings along to our customers.

“For over 50 years, we have been bringing unique products to the marketplace,” notes Hanson, who has been working with the Windsor Plywood Group since 1979. “We continue bring new product lines to the marketplace, highlighted recently with vinyl flooring additions to the flooring lineup. Vinyl and cork floors are among the many new options.

Windsor Plywood Westshore has been, and continues to be an avid sponsor of sports teams and school programs in the Westshore. They are proud to watch the growth in this community.

Windsor Plywood is located at 888 Van Isle Way in Langford. windsorplywood.com.

BLUE GROUSE ESTATE WINERY Readers Choice: WINNER

0011645097 VAN ISLE PLYWOOD SALES/WINDSOR 30 years and countin 5 x 152 CMYK, ,

Proud to have served our community for

30 Years ...and Counting!

100% Locally Owned & Operated WESTSHORE 888 Van Isle Way LANGFORD 250-474-6111 Mon.-Fri. 8am - 5:30pm Sat. 9am - 5:30pm Closed Sunday - Family Day

100% Locally Owned & Operated

Filled with Gratitude

The hidden gem of the Cowichan Valley In the heart of Vancouver Island is Blue Grouse Estate Winery — a gem hidden in the Cowichan Valley.

Family-owned, sustainably-farmed and multi-award-winning, the winery and surrounding vineyards are a sought-after destination, not only for sampling the winery’s portfolio of top-quality wines, but also for events, picnics and family adventures.

The tasting room is open 11 months of the year. Check their website for events such as Soup Saturdays, pruning workshops, long table dinners and concerts.

Owned by the Brunner family since 2012, the team strives to demonstrate initiative, community involvement, sound business practices, creativity and consistent growth.

With some of the oldest vines on Vancouver Island, the winery team creates a unique experience that inspires people to visit the beautiful Cowichan Valley. The estate labeled wines are made from the transitional-organic vineyards surrounding the tasting room. A second label, Quill, is made from Island grapes occasionally blended with some Okanagan grapes.

Varietal wines include Ortega, Pinot Gris and Pinot Noir, and there is also a traditional method sparkling wine, “Paula” named after owners Paul and Cristina Brunner’s daughter. The wines

are bright, crisp, and well-balanced — showcasing where they are grown.

Visit and pass a pond with birds, tadpoles and beehives in the background as you approach the winery. This inspired winery facility was built with LEED certification standards using eco-friendly elements including locally-sourced construction materials, geothermal energy, onsite water collection and treatment, and other features that reduce energy consumption.

Presently “Certified Naturally Grown”, with the winery converting the vineyards to organic certification.

A bright, airy, sustainably-constructed tasting room opens onto a sun-drenched patio — the perfect spot for charcuterie and a glass of rosé. The mezzanine and its romantic views make this an essential stop in your Cowichan Valley visit, while the surrounding vineyards offer the perfect setting for weddings and special events.

0011644495 BLUE GROUSE ESTATE WINERY Readers Choice 5 x 152 CMYK, ,

Thank you for your votes.

We raise a glass to you!

All of this, plus the heart-stealing winery dogs, Deano and Tia, are just a few aspects of the winery’s many lasting experiences. Make a stay of it with luxurious vineyard-surrounded accommodation in the Grouse House — open year-round.

Learn more about this biodiverse, progressive, eco-conscious winery at: bluegrouse.ca.

BLUEGROUSE.CA

@BLUEGROUSEWINES

2182 L A K E S I D E ROA D, D U N C A N , B C

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ADVERTISING FEATURE

WALK IN COMFORT READERS’ CHOICE WINNER! SHOE STORE Walk in Comfort’s staff are passionate about shoes and are dedicated to providing comfort, quality, style and outstanding customer service. Employees at Walk in Comfort differentiate themselves by declaring “we like to measure and fit” and they aspire to measure and fit every foot that comes in the door.

Walk in Comfort’s top brands include Clarks, Merrell, Ecco, Birkenstock and Rieker. The company searches Europe each year for quality brands not yet seen in Canada, for the advantage of product uniqueness and the ability to bypass import hurdles, and so they can offer quality shoes and pass along substantial savings to their customers.

Partnership Retailing Walk in Comfort’s commitment to specific brands ensures the brands’ return commitment and invested interest by offering vast inventory with the best assortment of styles, so that customers can find their shoes locally. Walk in Comfort cherry-picks other quality shoe brands to find the best and most current fashion styles to ensure they are available for their customers in multiple colours.

Frequent Buyer Plan Customers who purchase five pairs of shoes receive 50 per cent of the average value of those five pairs towards the cost of their sixth pair — with no exclusions. This means that if the average cost of the first five pairs was $100 each, the sixth pair will be $50 off the regular, sale or clearance price. Through the Frequent Buyer Plan, Walk in Comfort gives back approximately $250,000 annually to their valued customers.

When you visit one of Walk in Comfort’s seven locations on Vancouver Island, you’ll find dozens of quality brands for men and women along with experienced professional staff that are ready to find a style and a fit that is right for you. walkincomfort.ca

Walk in Comfort’s Timeline 1986: Vogue Shoes opens on Broughton Street, Victoria

2001: Walk in Comfort opens in Woodgrove Centre, Nanaimo

2011: Walk in Comfort opens on Beacon Avenue, Sidney

1990: Walk in Comfort opens in Mayfair Shopping Centre, Victoria

2001: Walk in Comfort opens on Fort Street, Victoria

2012: Walk in Comfort opens on Oak Bay Avenue, Victoria

1993: Vogue Shoes opens on Fort Street, Victoria

2006: Walk in Comfort opens in Hillside Centre, Victoria

2017: Walk in Comfort opens on Station Street, Duncan.

ADVERTISING FEATURE

TIMES COLONIST | timescolonist.com

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2018

F9

Thank you, Victoria, for voting us

BEST SHOE STORE in Victoria

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731 FORT STREET

HILLSIDE CENTRE

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2238 OAK BAY AVE

2447 BEACON AVE

WOODGROVE CENTRE

150 STATION ST

VICTORIA

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F10 SUNDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2018

ADVERTISING FEATURE

timescolonist.com | TIMES COLONIST

VAN ISLE WINDOWS LTD. Readers Choice Award WINNER

Top quality customer service and care throughout the entire process “Today, we are the largest vinyl window manufacturer and installer on Vancouver Island, employing upwards of 80 employees.”

A Canadian Owned Company Since 1978 We locally manufacture windows right here in our factory in Victoria, supporting Vancouver Island and the Gulf Islands. This is both unique and exceptional.

What another incredible year for Van Isle Windows Ltd. 2018 marked our 40th anniversary in business, and what a year of celebration!

Many thanks to all our customers for being part of this remarkable milestone. The foundation to our continued success is our experienced and professional staff. From the sales order through to the manufacturing,

shipping, delivery and installations — our customers are provided with top quality customer service and care throughout the entire process. We look forward to servicing all our customers in 2019 as we enter into our 41st year.

Our warranty is our guarantee of quality windows and patio doors.

Because we are the factory and we manufacture here in Victoria, our customers never have to deal with a third party. They deal direct. They deal with us.

Another key to our 41 years in business is the ‘local touch’. We are all Islanders, just like our customers. This is what our customers really love — knowing that when they trust us for their window projects. Their investments support our Islands and local economy. The fact that we are locally based also means we are connected to our communities. We can attend to our customers’ needs quickly and effectively.

The doors opened in 1978 at our original location at 404 Hillside Avenue in Victoria, as an aluminum window and patio door manufacturer and installer. Many things have changed over those years, and today we are the largest vinyl window manufacturer and installer on Vancouver Island, employing upwards of 80 employees between Victoria to Campbell River.

FROM THE SALES ORDER THROUGH TO THE MANUFACTURING, SHIPPING, DELIVERY AND INSTALLATIONS, VAN ISLE WINDOWS’ CUSTOMERS ARE PROVIDED WITH TOP QUALITY CUSTOMER SERVICE AND CARE THROUGHOUT THE ENTIRE PROCESS.

TIMES COLONIST | timescolonist.com

ADVERTISING FEATURE

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2018

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Every window, patio door and insulated glass unit we manufacture is custom made for our customers across Vancouver Island and the Gulf Islands. We have the history and a proven track record in manufacturing and installation of quality products. We employ the most experienced installers in the business to ensure your windows perform perfectly.

The window and patio door industry is ever changing.

Customers want quality and service, and although modern designs are becoming popular, the majority of our customers still want more traditionally styled windows.

We manufacture and install white windows every day, but coloured windows continue to be popular. Black, brown and charcoal (colours like green and red are common, too, as we can custom colour match just for you), in both home renovations and new construction, combined with larger windows, bringing the outdoors indoors are just a few of the trends.

With our experience comes knowledge.

With our experience comes knowledge. We understand the needs of our customers. We provide a personal shopping experience, and we even take our customers on factory tours and show them how we manufacture our windows, patio doors and glass units.

We employ knowledgeable sales reps who specialize in home renovations and replacements, new home construction (contractors and/or homeowner builders), insulated glass units, skylights and sun-tunnels, as well as entry doors. Our goal is to continue to be the #1 window manufacturer and installer on Vancouver Island and the Gulf Islands.

Visit our showrooms in Victoria, Nanaimo and Courtenay, or online at: vanislewindows.com or Facebook. Give us a call and let us help you with your windows, patio doors, skylights, sun-tunnels, insulated glass units and entry door needs.

THANK YOU FOR 0011643941

YOUR SUPPORT! VAN ISLE WINDOWS LTD We are pleased to be the recipients of the Voted #1 - Victoria' 2018 Times Colonist Readerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Choice and x 190 2018 8 Better Business Bureau Torch Award.

CMYK, , FACTORY-TO-YOU PRICES Our windows are custom made and locally manufactured

BUY NOW NO Interest and NO Payments for 6 Months* on Installed Van Isle Windows!

CALL OUR SALES TEAM Call our Sales Representatives TODAY and ask about our special Winter Financing Offer

* OAC * Some conditions apply * Limited time oďŹ&#x20AC;er

Van Isle Windows Ltd. 2018 Torch Award WINNER Installation Services Trust

Performance

Integrity

P: 250.383.7128 | Visit our Showroom - 404 Hillside Ave. | vanislewindows.com

ADVERTISING FEATURE

F12 SUNDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2018

timescolonist.com | TIMES COLONIST

MCLAREN LIGHTING

Readers Choice: Best Lighting Store 2018

Mclaren Lighting: The Leaders in LED.

tirelessly behind the scenes to bring you the best pricing and service.

Mclaren Lighting is a family owned and operated lighting showroom committed to ensuring their customers never get left in the dark.

Generations of Lighting Experience.

For over 60 years we have been serving the communities and people of Vancouver Island.

With over 5000 items on display and Canada’s largest LED inventory, our selection is unmatched. We work

There are 3 generations of expertise standing behind the Mclaren promise to give you the best service, pricing and selection.

Our staff and certified ALA lighting consultants have made lighting their career, making us the leader in the lighting industry. We cover

every aspect of lighting and design from commercial to residential.

We can work with any project, any renovation, and any budget.

numbers for yourself.

Use our online LED savings calculator to see how you can save money and the environment.

Make the Switch to LED

Visit Our Showrooms

LED is the new standard for lighting and fixtures in commercial and residential applications. LED technology allows for design styles and looks that were once impossible to create.

You’ll find Mclaren Lighting in Victoria at 3400 Douglas Street, at the corner of Douglas Street and Boleskine Road.

The Nanaimo lighting showroom is located at 2520 Bowen Road in the Nanaimo Home Centre.

Don’t take our word for it, crunch the

www.mclarenlighting.com

Our fall sales event is on now come into our fall sales event and save 30-70% on hundreds of exclusive items store wide

0011644485 MCLAREN ELECTRIC Readers Choice Award 10 x 152 CMYK, ,

ADVERTISING FEATURE

TIMES COLONIST | timescolonist.com

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2018

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Ask a Senior Living Expert

Readersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; Choice WINNER: Retirement Community DEREK FORD PHOTO

Ask the Senior Living Expert Q: My mom is not doing well at home alone any more. What are some options?

A: Whether your search for senior housing is prompted by the desire for a lifestyle change or a serious medical condition, finding the right place to live can be challenging and stressful for both you and your mom.

Todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s senior living communities are

vibrant, active, resident focused communities, respectfully supporting the individuality of each resident. Each community has its own personality â&#x20AC;&#x201C; just like all of us. Make no mistake â&#x20AC;&#x201C; these are not the nursing homes your great aunt Mary used to live in.

A good entry level community could be a retirement community. Sometimes these are also called â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Independentâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; or â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Supportive Living Housingâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;. These individual apartment-style communities offer a broad choice of services and

amenities for their residents. Many new communities can be compared to a cruise ship or hotel environment, while still maintaining a comfortable, home environment.

Most retirement communities include a beautifully appointed dining room, private dining room, social rooms, theatre, library, fitness areas and more. The â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;hospitalityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; services you can expect include meals, laundry, cleaning, social and recreation programs, 24-hour emergency response and transportation.

There are optional fee-for-services made available as per your needs such as hair salon, aesthetics, massage and personal laundry. Most retirement communities bill on a monthly, rental fee basis, eliminating the worry of long term leases.

If you want to learn more about independent retirement communities, contact Helen at Berwick Royal Oak: 250-419-4012, or Linda at Berwick House: 250-721-4062. berwickretirement.com

0011645178 BERWICK INVESTMENTS LTD Reader's Choice Awar 10 x 152 CMYK, ,

Voted BEST Retirement Community &UHDWLQJ D ZRQGHUIXO HQYLURQPHQW ZKHUH UHVLGHQWV HQMR\ H[FHSWLRQDO VHUYLFHV IURP IULHQGO\ VWDČ&#x17E;I LV The Berwick Way. From its carefully planned location and layout to the smallest design detail, when you choose Berwick Retirement Communities you will enjoy an unparalleled standard of living at a superior value.

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F14 SUNDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2018

timescolonist.com | TIMES COLONIST

BIG WHEEL BURGER Readers’ Choice Awards FINALIST

RUSS HAY’S Readers’ Choice Awards FINALIST

You are why we are here

Real. Food. Fast.

We’ve taken inspiration from the classic cheeseburger and re-created it using quality, fresh ingredients.

Our burgers are ground in-house everyday using hormone-free, range-fed, AAA beef — brought to you with fast, friendly service.

Big Wheel Burger is quintessential local eating. We source locally from Berryman Bothers Farm, Island Farms, Hoyne Brewing, Phillips Brewing and Malting, Phillips Sodaworks and Island Bakery.

Big Wheel Burger is Canada’s first fast food, carbon neutral restaurant. By

taking responsibility for our impact and choices, we strive to offer a classic burger joint experience that doesn’t harm the environment, our customers, or our communities.

Big Wheel Burger Foundation goes further and is proud to be supporting local and national causes such as the Orange Shirt Day, Santa’s Anonymous, The Mustard Seed, Victoria Hospice, Big Brother and Big Sisters.

We hope this sets an example for other businesses to follow. bigwheelburger.com

BIG WHEEL BURGER IS CANADA’S FIRST FAST FOOD, CARBON

We’re here to keep you rolling through it all!

Thank you for helping to make us your bike shop over these last 60 years!

In 1959, Russ and Marion Hay opened the doors to a new bike shop in Victoria, and ‘Russ Hay’s the Bicycle Shop’ was born. In 1974, a young couple, Mike and Ambriss Clermont, saw an opportunity to continue to develop something great. They bought Russ Hay’s and it’s been in the family ever since.

Your smile as you throw a leg over your first or 50th set of wheels. Your passion for the open road and trail. Your motivation to get up early in the morning while it’s still dark and spin your way to work or school. Your determination to be your best self on two wheels.

You are why we are here.

NEUTRAL RESTAURANT.

We sat down recently to talk about who and what we are, and who and what we want to be in the years to come.

We want to be your bike shop.

We want you to feel comfortable here.

We want you to walk through our doors in Victoria and Sidney and feel like you are part of our family — because you are.

Life is full of bright and dark, sun and rain (and occasionally even snow), and we’re here to keep you rolling through it all. russhays.com PHOTO BY LORNA SHAW

LET'S KEEP YOU ROLLING INTO

THE NEW

YEAR!

0011646480 RUSS HAYS THE BICYCLE SHOP Readers choice award 5 x 152 CMYK, ,

30% OFF*

BIG WHEEL BURGER 3 locations in Victoria

0011647096 BIG WHEEL BURGER Readers Choice 5 x 152 CMYK, ,

Thank You TC Readers for all your Votes and Support !!!

ALL TUNE-UPS FOR ALL OF JANUARY

russhays.com 650 HILLSIDE AVE. VICTORIA BC 250.384.4722

2426 BEVAN AVE. SIDNEY BC 250.656.1512

*DISCOUNT INCLUDES LABOUR. PARTS EXTRA. VALID JANUARY 1 - 31, 2019

GATEWAY VILLAGE 703-771 Vernon Avenue Victoria, BC 778-265-5140

WESTSIDE VILLAGE 172 Wilson Street Victoria, BC 778-265-4805

bigwheelburger.com

WESTSIDE VILLAGE 341 Cook Street Victoria, BC 250-381-0050

TIMES COLONIST | timescolonist.com

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2018

ADVERTISING FEATURE

F15

FIRST MEMORIAL FUNERAL SERVICES Readers’ Choice FINALIST

Remembered forever.

Meaningful and lasting.

We would like to thank all those who recognized our ongoing commitment to serve the community of Victoria and surrounding area by voting for us in the Professional Services section of the Reader’s Choice Awards in the Times Colonist.

First Memorial Funeral Services seek to work alongside each family to help create funerals and memorials that are remembered forever, and talked about by those who attend as meaningful and lasting.

Our hope is that people come and experience a time with family and friends, and when they leave the gathering they say, “That’s exactly what Mom would have wanted,” or “This is exactly what Dad was like.”

Our approach is your approach.

Thank You

Through our dedicated staff, who are committed to excellence, we are able to design — with you — a unique service. From a traditional, faith-based service to a more contemporary gathering, we are happy to offer suggestions from our wealth of experience that best helps you to honour your loved one.

We would like to serve you and your needs. Whether you require a basic cremation, a funeral in one of our chapels, or a modern celebration of life in one of your favourite locations — we will make it happen. The possibilities are limitless.

We are a non-denominational funeral home and work with all churches and cemeteries. If cremation is your choice, you can be assured that your loved one never leaves our care with

our on-site crematorium. Feel free to come and talk with us if that is convenient for you, and if not, we would be happy to come to your home for a visit.

We care about your family, especially in the days that follow the death of someone special in your life. First Memorial is the only funeral home on Vancouver Island that offers an in-house Bereavement Education program and professional Grief Counseling service free of charge for its clients.

At First Memorial, we care about what we do — and we care about you. We have been serving the community for 60 years, and we look forward to continuing to be your #1 choice in the funeral profession. Two locations in Victoria. dignitymemorial.com

Taking care of each other is what community is all about.

for voting for us 0011647155 #1 SPA in Victoria 1st Place

PURE DAY SPA Reader's Choice Awar 5 x 76 CMYK, , #121-5325 Cordova Bay Rd (The Shops at Matticks) www.purevictoria.com | 250-590-7873

0011645336 THANK YOU VICTORIA FIRST We haveMEMORIAL proudly served the friends(FORT and families ST) ofreaders the Greater Victoria area with2018 personal, choice compassionate care, since 1969.

5 x 152 CMYK, ,

Thank you for voting us...

0011647841 # FUJIYA JAPANESE FOOD 5 x 76 AAA0

1 Best Sushi!

Saanich First Memorial Funeral Services 4725 Falaise Drive, Victoria 250-658-5244 FirstMemorialSaanich.com Victoria First Memorial Funeral Services 1155 Fort Street, Victoria 250-384-5512 FirstMemorialVictoria.com

3624 Shelbourne Street, Victoria www.fujiya.ca 250-598-3711

Dignity Memorial is a division of Service Corporation International (Canada) ULC. 1835 East Hastings Street, Vancouver, BC V5L 1T3

F16 SUNDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2018

ADVERTISING FEATURE

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HARBORD INSURANCE Readers’ Choice WINNER

Thanks to everyone who voted for us!

Thank you!

Harbord are humbled and thankful to have been voted Best Insurance Broker by Times Columnist readers!

We are committed to delivering an exceptional client experience to everyone, so it’s absolutely fantastic that we have been recognized!

In 2019, we promise to continue to give our 26,000+ clients awesome customer service and the best insurance rates we can. As part of our ongoing commitment to serving our clients, we will continue to invest heavily in technology that will enable us to interact with clients in the

way they want, when they want. This investment will help us streamline and automate some of our business processes, and help us to respond more quickly to client requests.

Next year, we will be adding additional on-line price comparison tools to our website, plus a self service portal for clients, to enable them to access documents 24/7.

All of our staff, including those not on the front line, continue to receive regular customer service and technology training.

This will enable us to ensure that each of our clients has a great experience whenever they deal with us — whether

they are getting a quote face-to-face at one of our locations, or on-line, making changes to their policy, paying their bill or processing their renewal.

We are investigating expanding our product line, increasing client payment options and securing more insurance markets.

Harbord is proud to support community and causes that are important to our clients, such as Big Brothers, Big Sisters, Victoria Boys and Girls Club Services, Mustard Seed, Saanich Peninsula Hospital Foundation, the Peninsula Baseball and Softball Association and the S.P.C.A. We will continue to solicit client feedback

to ensure we carry on delighting our clients, because without them, we wouldn’t be here.

For over 70 years, we have had the privilege of serving clients across Greater Victoria, and we truly appreciate your valued support.

Our staff and management team say thanks to all those who voted for us, and for those who didn’t, please pay us a visit, or visit our website and see what all the fuss is about.

We look forward to serving new and current clients for the next 70 years. harbordinsurance.com

A huge THANK YOU for helping us win

BEST INSURANCE 0011643921 HARBORD INSURANCE SERVICES LTD ReadersChoiceFeature 10 x 152 CMYK, ,

harbordinsurance.com

TIMES COLONIST | timescolonist.com

ADVERTISING FEATURE

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2018

BROTHERS BARBERSHOP Readers’ Choice WINNER

Thank you Victoria for Voting us the 0011647090 #1 Barbershop!

BROTHERS BARBERSHOP Choice We Readers are truly honoured and so 5 x 152 thankful to everyone who voted for us.

CMYK, , We are so appreciative to everyone for supporting and believing in us from day one, because of you we have been able to accomplish our dream!

THE BROTHERS: VIC, SITTING IN THE CHAIR, AND ARTOR, SITTING ON THE CHAIR’S ARM, WITH THEIR AMAZING TEAM — DENIS, KARLEIGH (AKA KOKO), ANDREW, ARNEL AND BARDHI. THEY HAVE BEEN NOTHING BUT HAPPY MAKING PEOPLE LOOK GOOD.

For the past 20 years, brothers Vic and Artor have been working on Fort Street as barbers. In 2015, they opened their own shop called Brothers Barbershop.

They have been nothing but happy making people look good. Originally, they worked for someone else for 16 years, and finally they opened their own shop.

The brothers came from Kosovo with their parents during the war, and today, they feel blessed to call themselves Canadian. Since they opened the shop,

they have built an amazing team: Denis, Karleigh (aka Koko), Andrew, Arnel and Bardhi.

Once a year, on their day off, three of these guys come and work very hard to raise the money for cops for cancer — For the Kids. Ever since, Brothers Barbershop has continued this tradition.

We just want to thank everyone who believed in us for taking the time to vote — for us! We wish you all a very Merry Christmas and happy new year!

#770 Fort St. 250.590.3949 Brothers Barbershop Brothersbarbershop1

brothersbarbershop.info

FRASER ORR THE BUTCHER Readers’ Choice FINALIST

Meat your maker Orr’s Butcher has been operating since 1979 in Brentwood Bay, B.C. and has earned a reputation for quality meat, homemade sausages, meat pies and haggis.

Fraser Orr has been part of the famous haggis and sausage making family, Ronald Orr & Son’s Family Butcher, that has spanned 38 years in Saanichton B.C., and has gained legions of followers.

With his siblings support and great staff, Fraser Orr the Butcher has resurrected their family’s famous recipes. Making the freshest, tastiest goods possible in their 800 square foot kitchen, their cutting room, deli counter and retail space expand into another 1,200 square feet.

The Deli offers hot and cold lunches, cold cuts and sausage rolls, pies, Scotch eggs and pizzas, including a haggis pizza.

Surprise! Orr’s also offers some vegetarian dishes.

After a very long five years away from running his own butcher shop, working for the supermarkets and a stint in the oil patch, Fraser is once again doing what he knows and loves best.

“We call Fraser Orr’s the ‘happy place’, as that’s where our customers are!”

Follow us on Facebook for our daily soup & sandwich and updates.

Find us at: fraserorrsbutcher.com

0011646627 F&L ORR LTD Butcher Runner-up 5 x 152 CMYK, ,

Tuesday-Friday 9-6 Saturday 9-5 108-1931 Mt Newton X RD 778-351-2280 Phone orders available Fraserorrsbutcher.com

F17

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F18 SUNDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2018

timescolonist.com | TIMES COLONIST

MAYFAIR SHOPPING CENTRE Readers’ Choice WINNER

Mayfair Victoria’s #1 Shopping Centre

On behalf of the staff and retailers at Mayfair Shopping Centre, thank you for voting us Victoria’s No. 1 shopping mall in the Times Colonist Reader’s Choice Awards. It’s an award that means more to us than any other because it comes from you — our customers.

There has never been a more exciting time to visit Mayfair. While we’ll always be working to improve every aspect of

the customer experience, we’re delighted to have recently marked the successful completion of our $72 million revitalization project in a way that highlights our role as Vancouver Island’s favourite fashion destination, and our commitment to serving our local community.

Renovations to the shopping centre include 100,000 square feet of new leasable area, additional parking, improved accessibility and upgrades to

the interior and exterior of the property.

Thirteen amazing new retailers have opened this year including Indigo, SportChek and Saje Natural Wellness. We are excited to continue to introduce highly desirable, first-to-market brands to Vancouver Island in 2019. We would like to thank all our customers for their patience and support during the construction period.

Today, more than four million people visit

Mayfair each year to shop our wide variety of over 120 retailers. That support has helped make us Vancouver Island’s premier shopping destination. We are extremely grateful for your continued support and your business.

Wishing you all a very happy New Year and we look forward to serving you in the weeks and years ahead. mayfairshoppingcentre.com

THANK YOU VICTORIA 0011647363 MAYFAIR SHOPPING 10 x 152 AAA0

TIMES COLONIST | timescolonist.com

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2018

ADVERTISING FEATURE

F19

BIG-O TIRE ON QUADRA FINALIST Auto Repair FINALIST Oil Changes

Cutting edge wheel experts + auto repair Kevin Jensen is the manager at Big-O Tire where has been serving the Victoria area since 1988. His reputation for outstanding performance and service, plus his devotion to true neighbourly service has won him the respect and loyalty of his many custumers.

In fact, this year, Kevin’s Quadra Street Big-O Tire location was recognized by the Victoria community. They were given two Readers’ Choice Awards: Finalist in Auto Repair and Finalist in Oil Changes.

The service staff at Quadra Tire Big-O is comprised of wheel and rim experts who remain on the cutting edge of wheel style, configuration and performance.

They know wheels. And they know the

companies who make them. They hand-picked quality wheel brands whose products reflect a passion for design and craftsmanship. From the brands that produce the hottest urban wheel styles, to the brands that painstakingly craft replica wheel lines for vintage cars, Big O Tires partners with the best wheel brands in the world.

As well as new and used tires and custom wheels, you’ll find full automotive services, front end and brake services, and nitrogen inflation at this location.

If you are looking for a one-stop automotive repair shop, look no further than Big-O, and allow their mechanics to give you a reliable estimate. gobigo.ca

0011645101 All of us at Newport Property Management NEWPORT PROPERTY want to thankREALTY everyone for recognizing us.

We love what we’re doing: keeping our residential MANAGE and commercial landlords and tenants well served.

Readers Choice Award We wish everyone a happy and successful Year in 2019!

5New x 152 CMYK, , PROPERTY MANAGEMENT

2045 Cadboro Bay Road, Victoria, BC Phone 250 598 2220 info@newportrentals.ca www.newportrentals.ca

THE TEAM YOU CAN RELY ON!

0011645197 QUADRA TIRE Reader's Choice Awar 10 x 152 CMYK, ,

F20 SUNDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2018

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timescolonist.com | TIMES COLONIST

CAPITAL IRON Favourite Houseware Store Favourite Hot Tub Store Favourite Hardware Store Favourite Patio Frniture Store

Downtown Victoria’s favourite store FOR OVER 80 YEARS Capital Iron stands in one of the oldest buildings in Victoria, with a rich history on the Inner Harbour.

Founder Morris L. Greene opened our first location in 1934 as a scrap business. He had considerable knowledge of ships, which combined with the company’s waterfront location, enabled his successful ship dismantling business.

Between 1934 and 1971, the company dismantled nearly 100 ships of various sizes.

During the Second World War, when industry was busy supplying goods for the war effort and little for civilians, Capital Iron was a popular spot to pick up salvaged or surplus items. Following the war, Capital Iron took on a major challenge and bought 14 frigates and a minesweeper for scrapping.

Salvage from these ships provided hard to find items for years. As demand grew beyond surplus, Morris started carrying regular hardware lines. By 1971, the scrap business was at an end as retail success grew. At that time, Morris was succeeded by his son, Ronald Greene.

Ron and his team continued to grow Capital Iron, adding new product lines to complement the original hardware business. In 1988, Ron opened a second location on Bevan Avenue in Sidney with his son-in-law Mike

Black as store manager. Over the next few years, two other locations were opened but eventually closed.

In 1997, Ron’s daughter Eveline and Mike took the helm as Capital Iron’s third generation owners alongside two other senior managers. The Black’s started a period of rebuilding Capital Iron with new product lines and expansions. In 2014, they opened the third location in Langford.

Today, Capital Iron offers one of the largest selections of housewares, camping, fishing, marine, hardware, garden, barbeques, hot tubs, patio furniture, home decor, fireplaces, fabric and Christmas products anywhere on Vancouver Island.

With the growth of the outdoor living product lines in patio furniture, barbeques, hot tubs and garden, we’ve expanded the showrooms on the lower wharf-level outdoor areas. To accommodate growth, in 2016, third generation owners Mike and Eveline Black completed the newest warehouse structure in the lower yard.

History of the Building Capital Iron’s Downtown Victoria store is housed in two buildings.

The stone structure was built in 1863, with an addition from 1976-77. This was clad in enameled steel and set back to

impinge as little as possible upon the older building. The third building in brick, to the left of the stone structure, was an addition to the original Rice Mill in 1890 and is no longer used by the company.

Wright & Sanders, Architects, designed a number of structures in Victoria between 1858 and 1867, including Capital Iron’s main stone building. They designed the original stone warehouse in 1863 for Dickson Campbell & Co., importer and commissions agents. The building consisted of two floors: a lower wharf-level floor and an upper street-level floor. It was one of the first built along Store Street after the removal of the first Johnson Street Bridge THE ICONIC AND WELL-LOVED CAPITAL IRON CELEBRATES MORE THAN 8O YEARS OF HISTORY. permitted ships to enter the upper harbour. At some time over by the Mount Royals Milling Capital Iron & Metal Ltd. In the before 1885, the roof was Company, which added a two1950s, the facades of the two replaced by a hipped roof and story frame addition to allow for main buildings were modernized the lower level was paved with their milling machinery. Locally with new windows and a coat of large flat pieces of sandstone on known as the Victoria Rice & stucco. In 1980, under the clay.

Roller Milling Co, they imported guidance of Morris’ son and rice from the Orient and company president, Ronald Few of the original stones have distributed across Canada once Greene, and Architect, Claude H. survived after more than a the railway opened.

In 1890, the Maurice, the facades of both century but several are still visible company built the brick building older buildings were restored to in the store. Other points of and extended the 1885 addition their 1890s appearance. The interest are the longitudinal to the street. Unfortunately, the restoration was recognized with beams that span 120 feet with milling company went into the 1981 “Award of Merit” of only one joint, the cast iron bankruptcy in 1907. the Hallmark Society and the columns in the basement, and 1982 Regional Award of the iron shutters visible part way After a period of various tenants, Heritage Canada. up the main staircase. in 1934, Morris L. Greene rented the buildings and opened capitaliron.net In 1885, the property was taken

THANK YOU VICTORIA!

YOU VOTED US:

• BEST PLACE TO BUY HARDWARE! • BEST PLACE TO BUY PATIO FURNITURE! 0011646665 • BEST PLACE TO BUY A HOT TUB! CAPITAL IRON • BEST PLACE TO BUY HOUSEWARES! AwardGEAR! • BESTReaders PLACE TO Choice BUY OUTDOOR 10BUY x 152 • BEST PLACE TO MEN’S CLOTHING!

CMYK, ,

THERE IS REALLY NO STORE LIKE IT!

VICTORIA’S FAVOURITE STORE FOR OVER 80 YEARS!

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TIMES COLONIST | timescolonist.com

SUNDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2018

F21

BIN 4 BURGER LOUNGE WINNER Reader’s Choice Best Burgers

“You Gotta Eat Here!”

Bin 4 Burger Lounge opened their first location in November 2011 at 180-911 Yates Street in Downtown Victoria.

baby came next, and PROFIT Guide named Sarah one of Canada’s Top Female Entrepreneurs.

Bin 4 Burger Lounge contemporizes the classic burger, making it gourmet with fresh, ingredients, toppings and sides.

Burgers are no longer only about the beef. They’re about what you put on it, in it, next to it and what you wash it down with.

Enjoy a cold pint from a local craft brewery, savour a glass of vino from the feature wine list, and try one of our refreshing cocktails made with fresh squeezed juices and house-made syrups.

Bin 4 is locally owned and operated, with a menu that features fresh, local ingredients, house-made sauces and ethically raised, hormone-free meats.

We choose to support local whenever possible, whether it’s the buns or the coffee. Playing with a diverse range of flavour combinations and with a focus on freshness, taste and quality, Bin 4 aims to modernize the ever-so-popular burger.

Catering to all ages and tastes, the menu extends beyond burgers and even incorporates gluten-free and vegetarian options.

Bin 4 began with three burger-lovers and friends who envisioned a new kind of restaurant – a burger joint serving only the classic gastronomic icon – with a gourmet touch.

Dan Blackmore: Dan began his career in the restaurant industry over 30 years ago as a dishwasher at The Keg in Victoria, owned by none other than his parents.

He went on to manage and own several local restaurants. His wealth of knowledge and high standards have grown Bin 4 Burger Lounge culture into what it is today.

Michael Ringland: A Red Seal Chef for over 15 years, Mike boasts an extensive range of experience from hotels and local restaurants to private chef positions.

Former executive chef to NHL star Russ Courtnall, Mike’s mouth-watering recipes have been featured on The Food Network’s “You Gotta Eat Here.”

THANK YOU VICTORIA! 0011648061 BIN 4 BURGER 5 x 152 AAA0

Monthly Features Each month, Bin 4 thinks up a new burger to tease your taste buds – complete with a feature appetizer, drink and dessert. bin4burgerlounge.com Westshore: 102-716 Goldstream Ave. Downtown: 180-911 Yates St. Saanich: 100-3271 Maple St. Vancouver: 2996 Granville St. Kelowna (Opening early 2019): 1616 Powick Rd.

The People Behind Bin 4 Sarah Blackmore: Sarah studied hospitality with the Northern Alberta Institute of Technology. A couple years later, she met Dan, and Bin 4 Burger Lounge was born. Restaurants, marriage and a “We are thrilled to be voted as one of the “Best Ways to Get Off the Island” for the 2018 Readers Choice Award. The BC Ferries Connector is a convenient and fun way to travel between Victoria and Vancouver and we are grateful that our community feels the same.”

BC FERRIES CONNECTOR WINNER Favourite Way to Get Off the Island

The BC Ferries Connector has been operated by the Wilson’s Group of Companies since 2016 and has become a preferred way to travel between Victoria and Vancouver yearround. Commuters enjoy hassle-free, convenient transfers in the comfort of a luxury coach.

With multiple departures, the service is both convenient and dependable, with several options for pick-up and drop-off points enroute in both Victoria and Vancouver. Not to mention the beautiful sites to see while travelling on both sides, winter or summer, travellers enjoy city views, beautiful farmland, mountain ranges and activities that are taking place, such as festivals and markets.

During the winter, there are four departures daily, and in the summer, there are seven departures daily that run in all weather.

BC Ferries Connector also provides transfers between Victoria and both YVR Vancouver International Airport and the Vancouver Cruise Ship Terminal at Canada Place. You are always guaranteed on-board the BC Ferries when you choose the BC Ferries Connector as the bus is first-on, first-off the ferry with priority loading.

“We want to offer our passengers the most convenient and comfortable travel experience they can depend on. We have added a new route from Vancouver to Whistler; commuters from Victoria can hop on the BC Ferries Connector to Pacific Central Station and transfer onto our BC Connector to Whistler for a Winter adventure or a leisure stay in the Village.”

For more information, email: reservations@bcfconnector.com “From the entire Wilson’s Group team, we want to thank you again for voting for us. We appreciate the continued support and look forward to a great year ahead.” wilsonstransportation.com

THANK YOU VICTORIA FOR VOTING BC FERRIES CONNECTOR AS ONE OF THE BEST WAYS TO GET OFF THE ISLAND 0011648869 BC FERRIES 10 x 76 AAA0

BOOK YOUR TRIP TODAY

BCFCONNECTOR.COM OR 1.888.788.8840

F22 SUNDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2018

timescolonist.com | TIMES COLONIST

ADVERTISING FEATURE

DODD’S FURNITURE & MATTRESS Favourite Furniture Store Readers Choice Awards 2018

“We won’t be undersold!”

Thank you, Victoria!

We strive to give you the best selection and customer service, and we are honoured to be recognized for our work.

In 1977, Gordy Dodd opened a small furniture store near downtown Victoria. Today, Dodd’s Furniture & Mattress is the largest independent furniture retailer on Vancouver Island, showcasing a three-story 35,000 square foot showroom in Victoria, a 25,000 square foot furniture gallery in Nanaimo, and a 16,000 square foot store in Campbell River. A locally owned and family-run business, we are best known for our quirky commercials starring Gordy Dodd as well as our ongoing community initiatives.

THE DODD FAMILY (L TO R): WITH GORDY DODD, HIS SON LOVE, GORDY’S WIFE RAVINDER, AND DAUGHTER, AMAN — ALL INVOLVED IN MAKING DODD’S FURNITURE THE GREAT SUCCESS THAT IT IS TODAY.

At Dodd’s, we recognize the importance of giving back to the community. Gordy Dodd’s community work includes Thanksgiving and Christmas meals and his annual Walk for Peace in support of Victoria Hospice. He donates to the elementary school in Jalwehra and arranges medical clinics in the village, bringing in doctors who provide treatment and medicine. So far, more than 55 eye operations have been performed. We also host fundraisers for natural disasters around the world, sponsor local sports groups and regularly donate furniture to charity auctions and school associations.

Dodd’s is home to the largest independent Serta mattress gallery in Canada and the largest Simmons mattress gallery on Vancouver Island. Our showrooms are always up to date with the latest designs and fashions including a large selection of customizable products made right here in B.C. Plus, with a 43,000 square-foot warehouse, you can rest assured that items you see in our stores will be in stock and ready for fast delivery.

We volume buy, which allows us to pass on the savings to our customers. We’ll beat any advertised price on Vancouver Island because, like Gordy always says — “we won’t be undersold!”

We look forward to serving you and to staying number one for many years to come. doddsfurniture.com

WINNER - Furniture Store

THANK-YOU VICTORIA for voting for us!

We are honoured that you helped us win 0011648919 the best furniture store inDODDS Victoria.

10 x 152 AAA0

We are proud to continue to provide excellent value and selection and the highest level of customer service.

MORE ONLINE @DODDSFURNITURE.COM Victoria (250) 388-6663 Nanaimo (250) 390 -1125 Campbell River (250) 287- 8361