free MAGAZINE
VANCOUVER ISLAND
COUPON AND AFFORDABLE LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE | SUMMER 2016
the
Ultimate
ISSUE 26
SUMMER ACTIVITY GUIDE
Road Trip Guide: Food Trucks Farms, Markets & Wineries Breweries PAGES 2, 18 & 34
PAGE 23
ON THE COVER: SPOONS DINER A BRUNCH LANDMARK
HUNDREDS OF
savings
almostfreemagazine.com
IN COUPONS
F O O D TRUCK MA P
THETRUCKS ULTIMATE & FOOD FLOATING RESTAURANTS
Food Truck & Floating Restaurant GUIDE
2
2
Ba yS t
Bell eville St
St
2
Street Food that Rocks! PG provides locally made and locally sourced quality foods to make happy bellies and smiling faces. We have yummy foods such as BBQ Pulled Chicken, Chicken Tacos, Gourmet Dogs and Smokies. We also provide Veggie options and many Gluten Free Options so almost anyone can taste the good stuff. Experience the difference at Pepperman’s Grill.
We are on the StreetFoodApp for Victoria, Facebook, Twitter.
www.peppermansgrill.com
Pembroke St
AlmostFreeMagazine.com | SUMMER 2016
1
4
Discovery St
We use BIODEGRADABLE PACKAGING recycled for minimal impact on our beautiful planet.
Herald St
Our LOCALLY MADE PORK KIELBASA contains NO PRESERVATIVES OR GLUTEN
Fisgard St
HOMEMADE WITH LOCAL FRESH INGREDIENTS
Cormorant St
1
Pando ra Ave
Blansh ard St
Hungry Rooster perogies are made with love on British Columbia islands from a SECRET FAMILY RECIPE
Store St
Yates St
Govern ment S t
d eR Tye d rR ou rb Ha
Johns on St
Wharf St
W ils on
Kim ta Rd St Si m co e Da lla sR d
4
Dougla s St
2
Mary St Catherine St
2
3
Find Out Where We'll Be Next hungryrooster.ca/ calendar/
Esquimalt Rd
3
Esquimalt Rd
Making the most of a sunny summer day off should mean new experiences that will inevitably refresh the senses. The abundance of Food Trucks in Victoria and around southern Vancouver Island can lead to an adventure for the palate! Our idea of a perfect afternoon means sharing in new tastes with friends and mapping out a few food trucks and/or floating restaurants to try. Food Tour! Here are some of our favourite suggestions. Have fun!
Find Pepperman's in Langford at the corner of Goldstream and Peatt
F O O D T RUCK M AP
3
Vancouver Island’s FREE coupon and affordable living magazine
Vancouver Island’s FREE coupon and affordable living magazine
| AlmostFreeMagazine.com
| AlmostFreeMagazine.com | AlmostFreeMagazine.com
Vancouver Island’s FREE coupon and affordable living magazine
3
3 3
FAVOURITE breakfast / brunch
eats
lunch $10 and under
All-day breakfast, swivel bar stool, everything homemade sorta place. Victoria's modern diner. Spoons Diner spoonsdiner.com
250.382.5111
2915 DOUGLAS ST. (INSIDE SUPER 8)
"AMAZING PUB FAIR SERVED ALL DAY LONG."
Deal: FREE Kid's Dessert with Adult Meal Purchase. Expires Sept 30/16
718 FORT ST. VICTORIA BC
Join us on our sunny garden patio for our delicious brunch menu every Sunday 11am-2pm. Bring in this coupon and receive 15% off your brunch entrée! Exp. Sept. 30 2016
1516 FAIRFIELD ROAD #7. VICTORIA BC
250.370.1152
250.385.1012
Buy 1 Meal and the 2nd one is 50% OFF (Exp. Sept. 30, 2016)
2646 QUADRA ST. VICTORIA BC
250.381.3363
Authentic Mexican Cuisine made from scratch, even our corn tortillas! Featuring dishes from Ixtapa, Zihuatanejo, Guerreo
Open 7 days a week for breakfast, lunch, and dinner! We have something for everyone. Vegetarian, Vegan and Celiac Friendly!
www.latortilla.ca
4675 TRANS CANADA HWY, DUNCAN BC
4
250.746.5848
AlmostFreeMagazine.com | SUMMER 2016
910 ESQUIMALT RD. VICTORIA BC
778.433.1331
FAVOURITE
eats
comfort food
delivery and take out Several items under $10. Gluten-free and vegetarian options. Eat Healthy, Eat Fresh!
15% Off Dine-In Purchases (Excludes beverages, alcohol, and the Mon/Thur. $9.95 Special) Expires Sep 30, 2016
2709 QUADRA ST. VICTORIA BC
250.384.5255
COOK ST. VILLAGE, 1109 MCKENZIE ST.
2 CAN DINE for $18.95 Includes small butter chicken, small rice, 2 naan bread, 4 samosas, and galub jamun. (Exp. Sept. 30, 2016)
Come and Enjoy Our Patio!
1550 CEDAR HILL CROSS RD. VICTORIA BC
250.472.0047
24 BURNSIDE RD WEST, VICTORIA BC
$5 OFF your purchase of $25 or more. (Exp. Sept. 30, 2016)
250.598.2711
778.430.5858
Authentic Quebecois Cuisine! Squeaky Cheese Poutine, Montreal Smoked Meat and more!
Check out our menu at www.willowsgalley.com
2559 ESTEVAN AVE. VICTORIA BC
250.382.1501
1215 ESQUIMALT RD. VICTORIA BC
Vancouver Island’s FREE coupon and affordable living magazine
250.220.8427
| AlmostFreeMagazine.com
5
FAVOURITE cafes / bakeries
eats
special occassion WINE WEDNESDAYS 25% off bottles of wine HAPPY HOUR 3–5 pm Monday thru Friday $4 glasses of house red and white $5.25 pints of Draught SUNDAY NIGHT JAZZ 8–10 pm
Daily home-baked goods, sandwiches, and gluten-free treats. Serving fresh roasted coffee, jaga silk, maccha, loose leaf teas and old school soft serve ice cream. TownshipCoffeeCo
4343 TYNDALL RD. VICTORIA BC
778.265.3253
In the heart of Gordon Head/Mt. Doug
2345 MILLSTREAM RD. VICTORIA BC
250.590.1119
Celebrate Party Gatherings &
Waterfront Dining serving modern-comfort inspired West Coast Cuisine!
Picnics with Kuku’s Fine East Celebrate Party Gatherings & Indian Cuisine this Picnics with Kuku’s Fine EastSummer Indian Cuisine this Summer
In Victoria call 778-430-5858 OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK 11:30am to Late
www.kukusrestaurant.com 24 Burnside Rd, Victoria, BC
1765 COWICHAN BAY RD. COWICHAN BAY
250.597.4353
Deluxe Bento Box -Lunch Special $3 OFF! (Regular $19. With this Coupon Just $16) (On Lunch Deluxe Bento Box Only. Expires Sept. 30, 2016)
THE NEXT
JAPANESE CUISINE
104-240 COOK ST. (entrance SUTLEJ ST)
6
AlmostFreeMagazine.com | SUMMER 2016
778.433.4490
Air Polishing for Summertime Fun!
– A quick way to remove stains from red wine, coffee, and berries for that naturally bright smile –
FAVOURITE
eats FAVOURITE eats Air Polishing - brighten your teeth for that special occasion or just because...
Do you have an upcoming wedding, reunion, graduation, or getaway? Air polishing is the #1 recommended treatment for braces. Do you have embarrassing stains? The most effective and efficient way to remove surface stains and plaque.
Ways Your Oral Health is Directly Linked to your Overall Health: • improves self esteem • Dental hygiene decreases inflammation and infection in the body which decreases stress on the body (linked to diabetes, heart disease, arthritis and other diseases) • oral cancer screening • blood pressure monitoring The knowledgeable and friendly dental hygienists at Focus on Dental Hygiene are compassionate of your dental health needs. Their warm and inviting environment offers the latest in ultrasonic scaling and air polishing technology. Your comfort is their focus.
– Your independent dental hygiene choice – Services for You with a Hygiene Appointment: • •
• • • • • •
Cheri Wu, RDH, BDSc, Owner
Free oral hygiene assessments Free oral cancer screening with Velscope technology Needle-free anesthesia Teeth cleaning Air polishing or traditional polishing Whitening services We accept dental insurance We work independently with your dentist for comprehensive care.
Give Focus on Dental Hygiene a call or drop by to see about availability – your teeth are as unique as you are!
IN ADDITIONAL TO REGULAR HOURS, THEY OFFER EXTENDED HOURS TO MEET YOUR BUSY SCHEDULE.
141 Menzies St, Victoria (250) 590-1931 www.focusondh.com
Meet the Team: RECEPTION: Warren, Kim, Chandra and their little rescue dog Roscoe will welcome you at the door and answer any service related questions you may have—they take most dental insurance plans and don’t forget to ask about the Senior’s Discount. HYGIENISTS: Cheri Wu, owner, dental hygienist and educator, takes great pride in her innovative clinic and awards for dental hygiene excellence. Denise, RDH, BDSc, Heather, RDH, BDSc, Nicole, RDH, and Rachelle RDH, BDSc will make you feel comfortable while providing outstanding individualized care.
Teeth cleaning can be fun and educational!
Let us help you “SMILE FOR THE
HEALTH OF IT”
Vancouver Island’s FREE coupon and affordable living magazine
| AlmostFreeMagazine.com
7
Spotlight on
WHIPPLETREE JUNCTION 4705 Trans Canada Hwy, Duncan
Pure Magic That You Might Get Lost In! What happens when 30 artisan and vintage vendor stalls akin to what you could expect in a food market come together? Pure magic that you might get lost in! Imagine this: walk into a colourful room of textiles, jewellery, small household items, signs, paintings, furniture, and sculptures and more, each piece with a unique story and you keep walking in and out of mini shops within the larger space. Do you feel the magic that went into each piece, carefully crafted, by a local artisan? When an artist creates each piece, whether tangible or written, it holds an “aha” creative moment specific to the artistic process. It’s special and defines whether the piece sees a future in another person’s hands or eyes. This is the story of Nest Collective— an artisan and vintage collective—at Whippletree Junction that started out in July 2014 in the courtyard and grew quickly to the large yellow frontage along the highway now with 30 partners. Inspired by owner MyraJean Marshall’s experience in an artist collective between 2004-06 in Washington State, she saw need for an affordable retail space for artisan-entrepreneurs to showcase their creations. Many vendors may be mothers, part-time or new artists, or like their pieces to be in several venues. For whatever brings a new vendor or shopper in, MyraJean follows one simple rule with doing business, ‘be silly, be creative, be kind’. “My hope is that people feel that when they walk in the door,” explains MyraJean. Being a creative entrepreneur can be very rewarding, but is also a lot of hard work. Balance is critical
8
AlmostFreeMagazine.com | SUMMER 2016
to long-term success. If one isn't mindful, too much focus on business can leave little time for creativity and too much focus on creativity can leave the business floundering. Retail space is expensive and then there's banking, customer service, marketing, janitorial, maintenance... and the list goes on. NEST was their answer to that necessary balance. "By all of the local excitement and support, it has been quite obvious to me that this is the type of outlet we've all been craving on Vancouver Island and around the world,” shares Stefani Williams, one of the collective’s vendors called OhMyDearLoves and a mother of young twins. “In a world of big box stores and discount shops, imagination is limited. There are only so many options in which we are encouraged to fill up our homes, and lives. This clouds over our creativity, and puts a damper on expressing ourselves. When we have boutiques like Nest Collective, the opportunity to colour our lives is unending. Each partner has a different take on life and art, based on their own experiences. We are all built on different foundations of relationships, experiences, culture, spirituality and tradition. Sharing these things with each other only adds to the quality of life we are all searching to thrive within. And speaking of pure magic that you might get lost in! Mark your calendars for their Christmas Tree Light Up in December. You’ll find Artisanal Christmas Trees galore in Nest Collective, and you can even purchase them fully decorated. But don’t just wait until then, they hope to see you soon!
BOSCH KITCHEN CENTRE Whippletree Junction, Cowichan Bay BC (778) 422-3310 @scoopsnaturalfoods
Spotlight on
WHIPPLETREE JUNCTION 4705 Trans Canada Hwy, Duncan
What's Your Summer Fudge Flavour? If you could reach the taste of summer in a bite of fudge, what flavour would it be? Watermelon, Lemon Drop, Ice Mint! Seasonal fudge is an essential part of the framework at Next to Nature Trading Co.! Summer fudge flavours include Fresh Raspberry, Raspberry Chocolate, Ice Mint, Blackberry and Watermelon (is your mouth watering yet?). “We look to local berries and fresh flavours for summertime inspiration", explains Karel Bossi, co-owner with her husband Max. Karel and Max Bossi of Next to Nature Trading Co—home of Beaver House Fudge—offer a good sense of humour to their clients and in business. When major highway construction in 2000 threatened to dump all over sales at the Trading Co, they decided to start making fudge to get out to the people. An internationally-known product, Beaver House Fudge maintains ethical
Creations from Over 50 Local Artisans Showing in Store & So Many Art Supplies for Your Creative Needs!
business practices in its production. The chocolate used boasts the finest quality from a small, family-owned Swiss company called Felchlin. The spices are fair trade and organic, and although they still do use artificial flavours and colours, all the ingredients must be high quality. The fudge is only made on demand to ensure the highest standards in freshness. Customers will tell you it’s the best they ever had. Now drooling over fudge, you probably wonder: Exactly what building at Whippletree Junction to find said fudge, and the Trading Co? Next to Nature Trading Co—the small cabin directly to the left of the big cabin, Pioneer House—carries items made by BC artisans. The dream catchers are from a tribe in Mission and are 100% handmade. There are also fair-trade items, which include Kyber sweaters made of New Zealand wool, lined with fleece,
Come in for our wide selection of Homemade Fudge
Puzzles, Mohair Socks, Sheepskin Slippers, Fair Trade Sweaters, Cards, Pottery, Salt Lamps, and More!
Unit O, 4705 TransCanada Hwy, Duncan BC WHIPPLE TREE JUNCTION, 250-746-5588 LocalTreasures I localtreasuresbc.ca
and some have reflective fiber. These popular sweaters are made fair-trade in Nepal, a great way to help the Nepalese earthquake survivors. Having a personal interest in health and wellness, the Bossi’s look for gifts with fun and function, including mohair socks for cold feet, locally made pottery and a line of gift cards that just make you laugh. In the 23 years the Bossi’s have been in business, retail has changed phenomenally. When they started in 1992, Walmart was not yet established the way it is today. China as a cheap supplier just started. And so, to be an artisan here in BC was easier as the general public was still willing to pay for Canadian wages. With this in mind, the Trading Co continues to practice ethical decision making in their local buying and they retail items that appeal to local residents. The next time you drive past, be sure to stop in to say hello and sample some of your favorite fudge.
4705 Transcanada Hwy Whipple Tree Junction 1-800-641-4677 (toll free)
beaverhousefudge.com
BBQ Menu NOW ON! We have something for everyone! Vegetarian, Vegan & Celiac Friendly 4676 Trans Canada Hwy, Duncan BC (250) 746-5848 pioneerhouserestaurant.com
Vancouver Island’s FREE coupon and affordable living magazine
| AlmostFreeMagazine.com
9
letter FROM THE EDITOR
our team roadtrips with my parents Growing up, summer meant day s, visit markets, and and brothers to explore national park welcomed many excursions oftentimes go fishing. Weekends cabins on the water. Then with family friends and cousins to g until the sun went down. evenings of barbecues and swimmin summer marks a refreshed I believe that for many people the ing in bloom and leafy view of life and possibilities. Everyth to new experience and green seems to infuse a sweetness e we outline adventure for adventure. Here in the summer issu ities, winery tours, brewery every interest from outdoor activ more much more! Start your visits, eating at food trucks, and so patio then waste away the adventure with brunch on Spoons s! day with our suggested roadtrip tour
EDITOR & PUBLISHER
Elissa Bergman elissa.vaf@gmail.com 250.419.2579 LAYOUT & DESIGN
Tania Castillo-Pelayo Myrna Proulx MARKETING
Louise Hodgson-Jones louise.vaf@gmail.com 250.812.2518 Deena Kinarthy deena.vaf@gmail.com 250.885.5058 PHOTOGRAPHY
26
Love & Peace!
Rachel Knoop, Razzle B Photography D. Bruce Gammie CONTRIBUTING WRITERS
Elissa Bergman, Editor
Louise Hodgson-Jones Jenny Hainsworth Saira Waters Victoria Holmes Deena Kinarthy
advertise with us For advertising opportunities, online or in print please contact Elissa, Louise or Deena with the contact information above. Š 2016 www.almostfreemagazine.com
SUMMER 2016 | ISSUE 26 Vancouver Island Almost Free Magazine Winner of the 2014 Saanich Peninsula Chamber of Commerce Crystal Award for Business Excellence for a NEW Product or Service.
www.almostfreemagazine
10
@VictoriaAlmostFree
AlmostFreeMagazine.com | SUMMER 2016
@VicAlmostFree
PLEASE RECYCLE THIS MAGAZINE
ISSUE THE JULY/AUGUST
EXPLO RE
the island
Each community section invites you to explore the wonders of Vancouver Island with tips, write ups,
features 2
THE ULTIMATE FOOD TRUCK GUIDE
4
FAVOURITE EATS
12
FLAVOURS Summer Frozen Treats
16
HEALTH & WELLNESS Love Lessons from my First 50 Years
18
THE ULTIMATE ROAD TRIP MAP Farms, Markets & Wineries
20
FITNESS TIPS Fit to Travel
23
SUMMERTIME ACTIVITY GUIDE
34 THE ISLAND'S CRAFT BREWERIES 36 COMMUNITY CULTURE A House in George Square 38
MONEY CENTS Understanding Investment Fees
40
ARTS & ENTERTAINMENT
and coupons!
communities ISLAND SPECIAL OFFERS
start here
GREATER VICTORIA SEE PAGES 42-47
Vancouver Island’s FREE coupon and affordable living magazine
| AlmostFreeMagazine.com
11
F L AVOURS
F R OZ E N S U M M E R T R E ATS
recipes Raspberry Peach Pops 4 slightly heaped cups fresh, ripe raspberries
1/4 cup Blood Orange Olive Oil
3/4 cup granulated sugar (we used the latter but use less if you’re sensitive to sugar)
3/4 cup condensed milk
1/4 Cup Peach White Balsamic Vinegar
1 cup Vietnamese coffee, chilled
1/4 Cup Water
1 1/2 tbsp Vietnamese coffee grounds or your favorite coffee grounds
1 Tbsp Lemon Juice
1/2 tsp ground Cardamom
Pinch of sea salt Combine the raspberries and sugar in a bowl; let them sit for 15 minutes. Add berry mixture to a saucepan and add the water and vinegar. Bring just to a boil then reduce to a simmer, and cook for 5 minutes. Let cool to room temperature. Once cooled, transfer to a blender or food processor, add the lemon juice, salt and blend until mostly smooth (I find some leftover bits lovely in here). Divide between popsicle moulds. You’ll have about 3 1/4 cups of the mixture, which divides evenly among 10 1/3-cup molds, with 1/4-inch space on top to make room for expansion in freezing. Freeze for about 5 hours, or until completely frozen.
12
Vietnamese Coffee Ice Cream
AlmostFreeMagazine.com | SUMMER 2016
1 cup Half and Half
seeds of 1 Vanilla Bean pod or 1 tsp vanilla bean paste
Blood Orange Cream Pops Dip in lukewarm water for 10 seconds to unmold each popsicle. 3 large Oranges 1 (14-ounce) can sweetened condensed milk 2 Tbsp Cara-Cara Orange Vanilla White Balsamic Vinegar 3/4 cup half-and-half 2 Tbsp Blood Orange Fused Olive Oil Pinch of salt
1/4 tsp Fleur de Sel
Juice oranges until you have 3/4 cup fresh juice.
Step 1 - In a medium glass bowl, whisk together condensed milk and blood orange olive oil until well blended. Then whisk together all remaining ingredients. Pour into a resealable container, then cover and refrigerate for at least 1 hour - until mixture is extremely cold.
Add juice, condensed milk, vinegar, half-and-half, olive oil and salt to zest and whisk together until thoroughly combined.
Step 2 - Assemble ice cream maker and pour in ice cream base while machine is running. Churn as per manufacturer instructions - usually 15 minutes or until you have a firm, softserve type ice cream or the mixer stops entirely. Disassemble base and scoop ice cream into a loaf pan or other freezer safe container. Cover with plastic wrap and freeze until firm - about 3 hours. Scoop ice cream once completely hardened.
Dip in lukewarm water for 10 seconds to unmold each popsicle.
Pour into popsicle moulds. Freeze for about 5 hours, or until completely frozen.
Find the Infused Olive Oil and Balsamic Vinegar products used in the recipes at Olive the Senses
FLAVO URS
We NOW have a Dried Spice Section!
Enjoy the Recipes on Page 12-13 of this issue of “Almost Free” Magazine using our Infused Olive Oils & Balsamic Vinegars and NEW Spices!
IN THE HUDSON, 1701 DOUGLAS ST
250.882.4210 VISIT OUR ONLINE STORE
www.olivethesenses.com Vancouver Island’s FREE coupon and affordable living magazine
| AlmostFreeMagazine.com
13
COPPER WATER PITCHERS + AYURVEDA COOKING TECHNIQUES Creates Unique Dining Experience at New Asian Village 1245 Wharf St, Victoria
I 250-381-8181
Harmeet spends time each year at the Ayurveda Centre on the Himalayan Institute Campus and brings back knowledge he can apply in the restaurants and life.
AYURVEDA DEFINITION: Ayurvedic medicine -- also known as Ayurveda -- is one of the world's oldest holistic (whole-body) healing systems. It was developed thousands of years ago in India. It is based on the belief that health and wellness depend on a delicate balance between the mind, body, and spirit.
AYURVEDA COOKING: The 5,000 year-plus-old Indian health science, which first introduced the art of ‘personalised cooking’. In fact, it went a step further by demonstrating how not only what you eat makes a difference but how it is prepared also makes a difference. Based on the understanding of the unique combination of Vata (Ether), Pitta (Fire) and Kapha (Water) that constitutes the human body and balances its life forces, the Ayurvedic cuisine encompasses dishes made with such combination of food that optimises these elements in the human body. ~Dash, Madhulika (2014, September 4) The legend of Ayurveda cooking and how it can heal your body. http://indianexpress.com/article/lifestyle/ food-wine/the-legend-of-ayurveda-cooking-and-how-it-can-heal-yourbody/
Honouring his mother for inspiring the concept of New Asian Village, owner Harmeet Kapur says his mother became famous on the Edmonton scene for her cooking and motto, “I cook from the heart”! The first New Asian Village restaurant in Edmonton opened in 1983 with 37 seats and grew to 14 locations (3,000 seats) in the city, and now the newest one in Victoria at the corner of Yates & Wharf. More than the ultimate in East Indian food with a modern and calming ambiance and a fantastic location, New Asian Village also holds your health in high priority. Both Chef Raj Rana and owner Harmeet share extensive knowledge in Ayurveda Medicine and Cooking Practices and Chef Raj Rana (left) and General Manager Ali Khan (right)
14
AlmostFreeMagazine.com | SUMMER 2016
Some of New Asian Village's signature dishes
Owner Harmeet Kapur alongside the 30 dish buffet
Applying Ayurveda Cooking Techniques to all 30 buffet items—made from scratch and served twice daily—brings together Chef Rana’s passion for cooking, hard work, and impressive background. Chef Rana’s experience includes owning restaurants and a time working at The Taj Mahal Palace in Chandigarh, the biggest 5 Star Restaurant Chain in India. New Asian Village’s signature dishes keep customers coming back for their butter chicken, veggie korma, goat curry, tandoori dishes, and more.
Vegan, vegetarian, lactose free, and many gluten free options make up the buffet, which also includes meat and fish options. They serve certified halal meat; Halal is an Arabic word that means "permissible." In terms of food, it means food that is permissible according to Islamic law. For a meat to be certified "halal," it cannot be a forbidden cut (such as meat from hindquarters) or animal (such as pork.) Customers may request gluten free bread in place of naan, and they offer a beautiful hot curry sauce for those who prefer spicier Indian cuisine. General Manager Ali Khan with an impressive Masters Education from Swiss Hotel Management School stresses the significance of their food made from scratch and at a spice level which all palates can enjoy. Even the dessert yogurt is made daily from a culture that is 34 years old.
Spice combinations from cumin, turmeric, garlic, black pepper and many others, and cooking from scratch using fresh ingredients outline some of the general principles in Ayurveda Cooking for optimal health. In the kitchen of New Asian Village, they grind their own spices from the whole products they import from India and make absolutely everything from scratch. A sauce may take 3-4 hours to make starting with grinding the whole spices, then sweating the onions, preparing the meat and vegetables and finally combining everything and allowing it to simmer. “Every sauce is different than the others starting from the four base sauces that use different spices,” explains Chef Rana. “Dairy, meat, and cream bases are from the north of India, where coconut, fish, and lots of spice comes from the south like Vindaloo.”
As for the copper water pitchers - this was a must have for owner Harmeet. In Ayurveda, drinking water stored in copper helps the body’s pH level alkalize. Harmeet also stresses the importance of drinking warm versus cold water for following Ayurveda practises. Stay posted each time you visit and online – in the near future owner Harmeet plans to open a Jazz Club at night from 10pm – 2am, 7 days a week serving late night bites and cocktails.
Some of the Health Benefits Found in Spices According to Ayurveda Medicine: Cumin: Anti-cancer and good for the digestive system Turmeric: Healing of Skin Black Pepper: Good for digestion Garlic: Anti-cancer Cinnamon: Helps circulation and inflammatory issues Cardamom: Mouth freshener Open 7 Days a Week I 2 Buffets Daily Dine In, Take Out & Delivery NOW OFFERING LUNCH BOXES: VEGETARIAN & NON-VEGETARIAN Open Weekdays 11:30am – 10pm I Weekends 12:30pm – 11pm 1245 Wharf St, Victoria I 250-381-8181 www.newasianvillage.com Follow us on Facebook: NewAsianVillage Victoria Vancouver Island’s FREE coupon and affordable living magazine
| AlmostFreeMagazine.com
15
H E ALTH &
wellness
LOVE LESSONS
from my first 50 years BY VICTORIA HOLMES, Inspirational Speaker, Writer, Life Coach
Love yourself first, all of you. Believe in yourself. Everyone has self doubt, don’t let it sabotage you or make you feel like you are different. Make yourself a priority. Don’t take on too much, learn to say no – often. Laugh. Connect with your sense of humour, and don’t take yourself seriously all of the time. Everything always works out. If you wait long enough, almost any situation has something in it that you will reflect on with humour.... eventually. Save some money for a rainy day. Every time I visit my dad he says this. Most of the time it just irritates me. Why is that? Probably because I don’t like to have a mirror held up to my shortcomings. My response is always, “Dad, I am doing the best I can.” The truth is, I wish I had listened the first time he told me. Believe in something greater than yourself. Whatever that looks like to you, you will know it is right when it feels right in your soul. Thankfully, I have people in my life from many cultures and religions, and I have noticed that the happiest people are those who have faith in an energy that is greater than our singular energy here on earth. We are hard-wired for connection with ourselves, each other, and to our collective existence.
16
Surround yourself with like-minded people. When you are enveloped by those who have the similar values, work ethics and social interactions, you are most at home in your environment. You feel supported and connected. You feel like you are part of a community that is committed to your passion. People will reject you - and you will survive it. The notion that everyone needs to love and approve of us has made many of us so focussed on people-pleasing, that we forgot what pleases us. I have had a deep rooted fear of rejection most of my life. I realized that I was giving away my power, putting my worth in someone else’s hands. I learned to accept rejection without emotion because I realized it had nothing to do with me, and the only unconditional love that I need to focus on is self-love. When I keep my attention there, everything else happens outside of me. Let go. Yes, even your children, especially the adult ones! Live your own life and let them live theirs. Embrace uncertainty, but trust that everything will work out with time. Relax and trust in the process of life. Let your children be who they are. You be who you are. A good system for monitoring interference is to
AlmostFreeMagazine.com | SUMMER 2016
notice when you are upset with your child who is over a certain age; then ask yourself ‘whose business am I in?’ Be honest, even when you don’t like the answer! When your young child triggers you, it is a cue to ask yourself why you were triggered by their behaviour. You can learn to recognize the trigger so that the next time it shows up you will have the skills to deal with it in a way that will be less stressful for you and your loved one. Practice forgiveness; and sometimes it takes practice! Strive to get to a place where you can look back and be thankful for the experience and what it has taught you. Recognize that you are the person you are today because of your experiences. It’s never too late to practice forgiveness, it is personal and doesn’t have to be shared with the person whom you are forgiving. It is favourable to your health and will make it easier to live your happiest life. What you give attention to you get more of. That’s how life works. Many great teachers have taught this, including the Proverb, “As a man thinks in his heart, so shall he be.” There is a law of attraction that is always working. If you spend your time focussed on another person’s flaws, you can be sure that you will find more
H E A LTH &
wellness
flaws the next time you see that person! Likewise, if you believe all things work together for your highest good, you will continue to find the best vibrational frequency in every situation. Be you – always. Be sure that the person ‘you’ is the same ‘you’, whether it is online, in person, with the neighbour, or with the Pope. The easiest way to do this is to always be authentic, truthful and mindful. Being ourselves is a progression. We reinvent different aspects of ourselves, and our core values evolve as we learn to trust and love our true selves. You can trust yourself. Feel your feelings. Avoid numbing your feelings with distractions like alcohol, food, electronics or other addictions. You will feel vulnerable and exposed, but let me assure you, that is where the knowledge, confidence and real learning reside, right outside your comfort zone. Pay attention, be mindful, remember to breathe. Be brave and thoughtful about what comes next. Practice self-compassion. Be strong in the knowledge that the next time those feelings come up you will have a new confidence to deal with them. You are more powerful than you think you are. Follow your passion – no matter what obstacles you think lay before you. Never stop learning. If you keep moving with ambition, when the opportunity presents itself you will be ready to act on it. I can’t emphasize this enough, stay true to your passion and your passion will make a way for you. Life is a work in progress. Some years we march forward steadfast in our goals and convictions, other years we take a time-out to reexamine who we are and where we are going, or sometimes just to rest. In each of those segments, we are doing exactly what we are destined to be doing based on the knowledge we have at the time. We are more than enough, we are valuable, we are all teachers and students. We are blessed beyond our comprehension. Take time each day to acknowledge those blessings, each one is stepping stone to another. Here is to another blessed 50 years! Victoria Holmes Inspirational Speaker, Writer, Life Coach Dedicated to helping you live a happier, healthier, more abundant life. Heal Your Life Workshops and Life Coaching.
victoriaholmes.ca
Vancouver Island’s FREE coupon and affordable living magazine
| AlmostFreeMagazine.com
17
4
S UMMER ROA D MA P
1
Fundraising Concert at Glenora Farm
rni
19
Nan
Central and North Central Island
Lad
for Special Olympics Cowichan Valley Sat. July 16th 1pm – 4pm
Mbira Spirit • King Tide • Glenora Farm Bell Choir
www.glenorafarm.org
Join us on the lawn for an afternoon of music, snacks, and refreshments by donation. Bring a blanket!
Nothing says getting to know the regions of Vancouver Island and new-to-you neighbourhoods quite like taking to the back roads to visit local farms, wineries, and markets! The abundance grown on the island throughout the summer and year round means you can eat fresh local foods for much of the year and support our local producers. We hope you'll take the time for a day trip to some of these wineries and farms, and for weekly groceries rotate between the lovely products and ambiance at Esquimalt or Oaklands Market.
BRITISH COLUMBIA
Suggested entrance donation : $20, Families $30, SO athletes $5
www.specialolympics.bc.ca
2 "Simply put, Emandare Vineyard is our home and we are privileged to work alongside nature to capture a glimpse of this place in every bottle.” 100% Estate grown in the Cowichan Valley. Sustainable farming & natural wine making.
Cowichan Lake
Cowichan Valley
DISTANCES (1Km = .6 miles approx.)
Victoria to Mill Bay - 41 km Mill Bay to Cobble Hill – 7 to 10 km Cobble Hill to Duncan – 10 to 14 km Duncan to Nanaimo – 51 km Duncan to Salt Spring Island Ferry – 15 km
THURSDAY - SATURDAY 11AM TO 6PM • emandarevineyard.com
4 5
3
Summer Special Buy 2 Bottles & The 3rd One Is FREE 100% BC Product from Busnardo Vineyard 1500 Freeman Road Cobble Hill BC 250.743.2311 divinowinery.ca
18
AlmostFreeMagazine.com | SUMMER 2016
1
Gabriola
S U M M ER ROAD M AP
STRAIT THE ULTIMATE OF GEORGIA Island
naimo
Road Trip Map Markets, Farms & Wineries
6
Gulf Islands
dysmith
1 Chemainus
18
Galiano Island 2
Salt Spring Island
Duncan
Pender Island
3
Cobble Hill
Sidney
Mill Bay Shawnigan Lake
17 4
1 5
South Island Sooke
6 Victoria
14
7
13
7
Sooke Night Marke t Ope n Thursdays 5pm-8pm June 2nd to Sep tembe r 1s t. Local craf ts, food, produce and art. He ld on the grounds of the Sooke Region Muse um. 2070 Phillips Rd. Sooke 250-642-6351
5
Vancouver Island’s FREE coupon and affordable living magazine
| AlmostFreeMagazine.com
19
F IT NESS
tips
FIT
to travel By Louise Hodgson-Jones
20
Summer is a great time to get outside and maintain your fitness regime. For many it is time to start training for fall races, for others just enjoying the many summer activities on offer is a must. Summer is also a time for vacation, and we are often faced with the dilemma of how to maintain a fitness regime and avoid weight gain while away, particularly in an area or country we are not familiar with. Here are some tips to keeping you motivated and moving.
more. You can usually rent a helmet with the bike so you don’t have to worry about packing one.
• If you are a runner this is a no brainer. Pack your running shoes, some gear and go explore. If you are staying in a hotel, they may have walking routes you can use. If you are travelling alone and prefer not to run on your own in a strange city there may also be local clubs you can tag along with. You can contact a local running store who may have a list of clubs, or see if the Hash House Harriers has a chapter. They are a world-wide running club and welcome visitors.
• Many hotels have gyms/spas so if working out is important to you, then choose a hotel with fitness facilities. This can be a bonus particularly if it is hot outside. Most hotel gyms have cardio equipment and weights so you can get your workout done in an air-conditioned environment and then enjoy your vacation with a clear conscience.
• Another way to explore while getting some exercise is to rent a bike. You can go a lot further and see a lot
• Pack your own equipment. It is so easy today to pack a few items in
• Take a hike. If you are vacationing with family then a social way to exercise is to go for a hike/walk. Many cities now have walking tours and you can choose your distance. If you are in an area that has scenic trails then hiking is a great way to stay fit and burn calories. Pack a lunch and you can enjoy a great day out.
• Swim. If your hotel has a good size pool, swimming is a great all body exercise. Or find a recreation centre with a pool and swim lengths.
AlmostFreeMagazine.com | SUMMER 2016
your case and not really take up a lot of space. Start with a Grid Foam Roller – at only 13” long and 5” in diameter it is light and hollow so you can fill it with almost anything. Start with resistance bands – a great substitute for weights, so you can keep up with your strength training, therapy ball – for massaging out tight spots, skipping rope, and a yoga strap for stretching hamstrings. • Exercising with your own body weight is simple and easy to do. A simple circuit could include jumping jacks, push-ups, lunges, burpees and the plank. These can be done on a beach, in a park or in a gym. • Stairs. Find some stairs and run up and down for 5, 10, 15 minutes. Your heart rate will get elevated so make sure you walk down the stairs to recover. You can also incorporate this into your run. • If you practice yoga, pack your mat and a DVD. Some hotels have DVD players or use your laptop. You can also download some videos beforehand on to a tablet.
F I T NESS
• Traveling can wreak havoc on our bodies – sitting too long on a plane, not getting enough sleep because of long flights or a major time change. So it is just as important to think about massage tools. The Stick for example is wonderful for massaging tight muscles from the neck down to the calves. A therapy ball, as mentioned above, you can lie on to sooth tight spots. • Just as important as maintaining an exercise regime is watching what you eat. Yes indulge a bit – that is what holidays are for, but try and make some healthy choices. Stay hydrated by drinking water (buy bottled if the local water is suspect) and try and incorporate fruit and vegetables in your meal choices. You can also pack some of your favourite energy bars to snack on.
tips
pounds away while you are away. There is nothing worse than coming home and finding you have lost a lot of fitness and gained excess weight. Ideally you should be able to get straight back into your routine within a few days, thanking yourself for keeping on track while you were away. Louise Hodgson-Jones is a media relations specialist, working with events such as the GoodLife Fitness Victoria Marathon, TC10K, and Vancouver Island Race Series. She also coordinates communications for PISE and the Pacific Cycling Centre, and writes for IMPACT Magazine and Canadian Running. www.corsafit.com @LouiseHodgsonJo Photo Credit: Elissa Bergman.
These are just a few tips to help you stay fit and ward of those extra
Join MEC and Merridale for our first annual MEC Fall Century Ride: 60K/105K. Ride through the scenic roads of lower Vancouver Island. Followed by a postride celebration of pizza and cider tasting at Merridale. Entry Fee: $45 (only 500 spaces available) More info at mec.ca/viccentury Extend your experience and join us for the Savour Cowichan Festival September 23 to October 3. Enjoy a cold one with pizza on the deck. More info at merridalecider.com
Vancouver Island’s FREE coupon and affordable living magazine
| AlmostFreeMagazine.com
21
THANK YOU SPONSORS & ATTENDEES Our 2nd Annual Charity Golf & FootGolf Tournament was a GREAT SUCCESS
VANCOUVER ISLAND
olf Course y Road, C. V8P 1T1
| saanich.ca/golf
What you need to know about The vision of Lifetime Networks Society is a future where people with disabilities live safely in their comFootGolf
munities, they canCourse fulfill their potential and enjoy at where Cedar Hill Golf lifelong friendships and support. “As a parent of a young adult with a disability I know firsthand many of the joys and concerns shared with other parents of children with disabilities,” explains Wendy-Sue Andrew, the Executive Director at Lifetime Networks. “It is wonderful to work in a place with such energy and joy where we know that, daily, folks are more connected and less lonely because of Lifetime Networks.”
Playgrounds FITNESS EQUIPMENT HealthcarePRODUCTS
Service, Parts & Rentals
THANK YOU TO OUR SPONSOR !
Flaman Fitness Spoons Diner La Belle Patate Murphy Wall Beds Magicuts Megson Fitzpatrick Razzle B Photography Urban Signs Iron Bell Fitness Investors Group
We have everything you need to lead a healthy & active lifestyle
ue
www.f
laman
ct
Produ
og Catal 2016
.co fitness
m
BENEFITTING CHARITY
Lifetime Networks 102-4090 Shelbourne St, Victoria, BC 48N 4P6 (250) 477-4112 www.lifetimenetworks.org
2016 FLAMAN FITNESS Playgrounds & Fitness Catalogues Available on our website
www.flamanfitness.com Victoria, 3172 Douglas Street 250.590.9858
22
AlmostFreeMagazine.com | SUMMER 2016
VANCOUVER ISLAND
Summertime ACTIVITY GUIDE
Photo credit: Tyler Cave
Summertime
| AlmostFreeMagazine.com ACTIVITY GUIDE 2016
Vancouver Island’s FREE coupon and affordable living magazine
23
HIKE
Mt. Tzouhalem MOUNT Tzouhalem is located in the Municipality of North Cowichan Municipal Forest. Mount Tzouhalem is a well known landmark overlooking Cowichan Bay and Quamichan Lake. It is 500 metres high at the top of the steep rock bluffs on the southwest side.
Crofton Ganges
North Cowichan Hwy anada Trans C
MAPLE BAY Kingsview Rd.
Duncan
M ap le Ba yR d.
1
Tzouhalem Rd. Trunk Rd
Chippewa Rd. Kaspa Rd. Eco. Reserve
MT. TZOUHALEM
DIRECTIONS: FROM the Trans Canada Hwy. Turn east onto Trunk Road. Follow Trunk which turns into Tzouhalem Road. Stay left at the “Y� junction and you will be on Maple Bay Road. Follow Maple Bay for 3 kilometres, then turn right onto Kingsview Road and follow it up to Chippewa Road. From here follow direction signs to the Mount Tzouhalem Ecological Reserve. Turn right onto Chippewa and follow it to Kaspa Road. Turn left onto Kaspa and follow it to the end where a narrow paved road leads to the parking area by the water tower.
1
After hiking Mt. Tzouhalem drive into Cowichan Bay for a stroll and a bite at Crowe & Appel.
Selling and serving fresh, local, wild seafood, pasture-raised local meats, and organic vegetables in our store and on our menu. Sit on the covered patio and experience the open barbecue-style outdoor kitchen serving dungeness crab, cedar plank sockeye salmon, mussels and other shellfish, chicken, lamb, beef, oysters, halibut, and more. Serving local wine, cider, and beer by mid-July
1751 Cowichan Bay Road I 250.748.0020 I croweandappel.ca
24
Summertime
ACTIVITY GUIDE AlmostFreeMagazine.com | SUMMER 2016
2016
SAIL AWAY
Cowichan Bay Cowichan Bay Kayaks offers kayak rentals and tours that include stunning morning, sunset, and moonlit views. Take your kayaking adventures even further by perfecting your skills with some lessons! Located on the waterfront in charming Cowichan Bay Village, Cowichan Bay Kayaks offers daily kayak tours, rentals, and lessons, as well as accessories, paddling equipment and clothing sales. Come and enjoy the end of the day with a gentle paddle, watching the sun set behind Mt. Prevost, joined by an adorable pod of seals on the glass like waters of Cowichan Bay.
1
Invisible Sun Arts Tours I Rentals I Lessons
24 Flavours of Artisan Ice Cream Retro & Nostalgic Candy Organic Island Coffee Cold Beverages Balcony Overlooking the Beautiful Bay Open Year Round 1765 Cowichan Bay Rd, Cowichan Bay I (250) 746-4300 morningmisticecream.com morningmisticecream@shaw.ca
Single Kayak Double Kayak Family Canoe Paddleboard
1 hr 2hrs 4hrs All Day $20 $33 $50 $70 $30 $45 $65 $85 $30 $45 $65 $85 $20 $33 $50 $70
Nice people to paddle with
Local arts and crafts in beautiful Cowichan Bay
1765 Cowichan Bay Rd 250-748-2333 cowichanbaykayaks.com
Summertime
1765 Cowichan Bay Rd. I (250) 510-5306 10am-5pm I @invisiblesunarts
ACTIVITY GUIDE 2016 | AlmostFreeMagazine.com
Vancouver Island’s FREE coupon and affordable living magazine
25
SWIM at
Sooke Potholes 1 1
14
Sooke PotHoles Regional Park is a swimmers paradise located on the banks of the spectacular Sooke River. Enjoy the views, explore the trails or take a refreshing dip on a hot summer day!
Saanich
Langford
SOOKE POTHOLES PROVINCIAL PARK
14
Victoria
Sooke River Rd
Rd Sooke
14
Sooke
Metchosin
Join us in My-Chosen Cafe for casual home style cooking, or My-Chosen Pizza (downstairs) for our artisan pizza. mai mai’s bistro eat . drink . enjoy
mai mai’s bistro
6676 Sooke Rd, Sooke, BC I (778) 425-3763 maimaisbistro.com mai mai’s bistro
26
ACTIVITY GUIDE GUIDE 2016 2016 Summertime ACTIVITY Summertime AlmostFreeMagazine.com AlmostFreeMagazine.com| SUMMER | SUMMER 2016 2016
Check our website for operating hours www.mychosencafe.com 4492 Happy Valley Rd. Metchosin BC
BIKE the Saanich
14
14
Galloping Goose Victoria
The Galloping Goose is a 55-kilometre multi-use trail enjoyed by walkers, cyclists, runners and, on some sections, horse riders. The trail, named after a freight railway line that ran from Victoria to Sooke in the 1920’s, features paved and rural sections. Highlights of the trail include Thetis and Matheson Lakes, Roche Cove and Fort Rodd Hill. The Goose can be accessed at many points along the way, and with easy identifiable kilometre marks, it is easy to plan a hike or a bike.
FRESH DELICIOUS DELI SANDWICHES ASSORTED REFRESHING BEVERAGES TASTY AND HEALTHY SNACKS
Just want coffee, fresh baked goodies or a banana split? You'll want to visit The Sugar Shack. We've made it easy by putting it all under one roof. Cafe: 250-474-2333 Pizza: 250-474-5576 Sugar Shack: 250-474-2380
ACTIVITY GUIDE GUIDE 2016 2016 Summertime ACTIVITY Summertime
Vancouver Island’s FREE coupon and affordable living magazine
| AlmostFreeMagazine.com
27
PICNIC at
Gyro Beach
Victoria's Cadboro Bay has long been a favourite d for sailing and kayaking. More recently, the beautifu bay has become a popular place to Stand Up Padd (SUP). The sport of SUP has deep origins in surfin continued to gain popularity over the past decade. I great full-body workout as you power along the sh a relaxing way to quietly explore around the many islands within the bay. Enjoy a picnic in the park a kids stay and play on one of the best playgrounds in
Victoria's Cadboro Bay has long been a favourite destination for sailing and kayaking. More recently, the beautiful sheltered bay has become a popular place to Stand Up Paddleboard (SUP). The sport of SUP has deep origins in surfing and has continued to gain popularity over the past decade. It can be a great full-body workout as you power along the shoreline or a relaxing way to quietly explore around the many coves and islands within the bay. Enjoy a picnic in the park and let the kids stay and play on one of the best playgrounds in the area.
28
Summertime
ACTIVITY GUIDE AlmostFreeMagazine.com | SUMMER 2016
2016
PAD D L E B O A R D S R EN TALS L E SS O N S SA L ES S KI M B OAR D S KI D S C A M P S GYROBEACHBOARDS.COM PHONE (778) 433-9200
The next time you're enjoying Gyro Beach or the neighbourhood with your furry friend, be sure to stop in for a treat bag and water! Please mention this ad or bring it in!
Enjoy Summer at Smugglers’
Cadboro Bay's Local Neighbourhood Pub Daily Food and Drink Specials 12 Draught Beers on tap Happy Hour 2–5 pm Everyday
Bring your best friend in for a treat!
OR EMAIL GYROBEACHBOARDS@GMAIL.COM
3840 Cadboro Ba y Rd
Pet Store & Grooming 3838 Cadboro Bay Rd, Victoria www.pawspace.ca I (778) 265-7297
Summertime
2581 Penrhyn St.,Victoria 250-477-2688 www.smugglerscovepub.com
| AlmostFreeMagazine.com ACTIVITY GUIDE 2016
Vancouver Island’s FREE coupon and affordable living magazine
Photo credit: Tyler Cave
and
PADDLEBOARD
29
EXPLORE
Mystic Beach Juan de Fuca East Trailhead (to Mystic Beach): Located at Kilometre 0, the Juan de Fuca East Trailhead is the eastern terminus of the Juan de Fuca Marine Trail. From here visitors can either take a 2.5 km day trip to beautiful Mystic Beach or start the 47-km hike.
MYSTIC BEACH
14
Sook e Rd
14
Kemp Lake Music Café
GENERAL STORE ART GALLERY CAFE/DELI/PIZZA COFFEE & TEAS FIREWOOD/ICE SHOWERS/HOT TUB/SAUNA LAUNDRY 7-7PM - 7 DAYS A WEEK
Summertime
ACTIVITY GUIDE AlmostFreeMagazine.com | SUMMER 2016
Home of Great Food and Great Music Live Music Every Weekend Sat from 7pm & Sun Open Mic/Music Jam 1-5pm
Licensed
2908 TIEULIE PLACE (OFF WEST COAST RD) 778-528-2298
30
7875 West Coast Rd, Sooke BC V9Z 0R4 250-642-7875
Take-out available.
KempLakeStoreMusicCafe
2016
Sooke
• Residential & Commercial Moving • The Best Service for The Best Price! • Call Us About Our Mid-Month Special!
250-418-1747
- No Travelling Time Before or After Local Moves -
veryone who works for Done Right Moving is courteous, conscientious, and respectful to ALL customers, building owners, managers, and neighbours. We take pride in our reputation of having professional, reliable, and experienced movers who are happy to work hard and do a good job. Seniors receive a special rate and service.
We are fully insured and WorkSafe approved.
Our guarantee is honesty: we are only human and if mistakes are made, such as damage, we take full responsibility to make it right.
Our goal is to provide a stress-free moving experience for the good people of Victoria, and get the job Done Right. Tyler Jackson, Owner/Operator smoothmoves250@gmail.com
$20 OFF
Find us on
Your Move with Coupon
2014 TORCH AWARD FINALISTS
See PAGE pages 38 40 for ourOFFER offers SEE 45 &FOR OUR
Service
www.donerightmoving.ca VANCOUVER ISLAND’S AFFORDABLE LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE
Summertime
| AlmostFreeMagazine.com
47
ACTIVITY GUIDE 2016 Vancouver Island’s FREE coupon and affordable living magazine | AlmostFreeMagazine.com
31
flavours of vancouver island
NOW AVAILABLE
NOW AVAILABLE
102-450 Hillside Ave. Victoria BC driftwoodbeer.com I 250.590.3555
Red Arrow Brewery The Best Things in Life Are Meant to Be Shared! Featuring year-around hits like Sweet Leaf IPA, Kustom Kolsch, Midnite Umber Ale, Heritage River Hefeweizen, and PiggyPale Ale; as well as adventurous limited releases - Invasion of the Blackberry Lager, Hop Shop Imperial IPA, Chocolate Cherry Porter, Idle Hands Oaked Orange Ale, and their Threesome Hemp-Hibiscus-Honey brew. Available in the tasting room and retail store open: Tuesday-Thursday 11am - 6pm Friday 11am - 8pm Monday, Saturday & Sunday 11am - 5pm 5255 Chaster Rd., Duncan BC / 250.597.0037
32
AlmostFreeMagazine.com | SUMMER 2016
Westshore's 1st craft brewery located at the site of the historic Loghouse Pub. Opened October 30, 2015 and soon to become Axe & Barrel Barbecue Brewhouse. Stop by their tasting room and rent a keg for your next party. 2323 Millstream Rd., Langford BC / info@axeandbarrel.com 778.433.6746 / 250.474.1989
flavours of vancouver island
We NOW have a Dried Spice Section! Summer Special Buy 2 Bottles & The 3rd One Is FREE 100% BC Product from Busnardo Vineyard 1500 Freeman Road Cobble Hill BC divinowinery.ca I 250.743.2311
Enjoy the Recipes on Page 12-13 of this issue of “Almost Free” Magazine using our Infused Olive Oils & Balsamic Vinegars and NEW Spices!
IN THE HUDSON, 1701 DOUGLAS ST
250.882.4210 VISIT OUR ONLINE STORE
www.olivethesenses.com Vancouver Island’s FREE coupon and affordable living magazine
| AlmostFreeMagazine.com
33
THE IS
Craft 1
Find Longwood Brew Pub & Restaurant in Nanaimo and
3
Prair
e St Ellic
St
St
2
2
St
Cr of tS t
Re nd all
Os we go
Store St
St
Kim S ta t Rd
Da lla sR d
Rd
Ni ag ara
t Bay S
ve ide A Hills n St Joh
ur rbo Ha
Russell St
2
Si mc oe
d eR Tye
Esquimalt Rd
W ils on St
M en zie s
Ba yS t
Alston St
LO N GW O O D B R E W P U B & R E S T AU R A N T 25 0 - 7 2 9 - 8 2 25 | 57 7 5 Tu r n er R o a d , N a n a i m o w w w . l o n g wo o d b r ew pu b .c o m
Catherine St
spirit OF THE ISLAND
Mary St
THE
55
4 4
t ge S Brid
nt St Pleasa
Skinner St
t er S Turn
1
e y Av k Ba Roc
t id S Dav
Esquimalt Rd
Johns
Yate We carry all Spinnakers beers and over 400 BC craft beers at our Spinnakers James Bay Retail Store Mon-Fri 9am -11pm I 3-435 Simcoe St, Victoria I 250-590-3515
3 Boasting a REFRIGERATED UNDERGROUND DIRECT BEER LINK BETWEEN THE BREWERY AND THE TAPS in the pub—said to be THE 1ST OF ITS KIND IN CANADA. Catering to wayfarers and travelers alike wishing for a drink and a good meal. Mon.-Fri. 10-12am I 7806 E Saanich Rd, Saanichton I (250) 652-1575
34
AlmostFreeMagazine.com AlmostFreeMagazine.com AlmostFreeMagazine.com|| SUMMER SUMMER | SUMMER 2016 2016 2016
SLAND'S
es BreweriTOUR 1
rie Inn in Saanichton
Government St
ve ide A Hills
(250) 386-2739spinnakers.com 308 CatherineSt., Victoria , BC 2
Spinnakers Spirit Merchants VICWEST 250-360-1333
130-176Wilson St., Victoria , BC If you exchange your grade JAMES BAY 250-590-3515 school teacher's comment 3–435 Simcoe St., Victoria , BC - "Plays well spinnakwith ers.com others" and take up& Brewpub Swans Hotel 3
5
506 Pandora Ave., Victoria , BC swanshotel.com
Bay St
Queens Ave Princess Ave Pembroke St Discovery St Government St
son St
Spinnakers Gastro Brewpub & GuestHouses
Herald St Fisgard St
"Drinks well with others" Swans Beer &be Wine we're4 sure you'll theStore 514 Pandora Ave., Victoria , BC popular kid are any party swanshotel.com or tasting! CANOE Brewpub 5 (250) 361-1940Canoebrewpub.com 450 Swift St., Victoria , BC
You'll make friends fast 6 Driftwood Brewing Company wherever you go, and I'm (250) 381-2739 dri ftwoodbee r.com sure these guys will be 102-450 Hillside Ave. , Victoria , BC delighted to serve you Phillips Brewing Cotoo. Ltd 7 (250) 380-1912 phillipsbee r.com 2010 Government St., Victoria , BC
Cormorant St 8
Hoyne Brewing Company
9
Moon Under Water Brewpub
Pando ra Ave
es St
(250) 590-5758 hoyneb rewing.ca 2740 BridgeSt., Victoria , BC
(250) 380-0706 moonunderwate r.ca 350 BaySt., Victoria , BC
4 rare style wheat beer named after the Gose River whose slightly salty waters originally gave the beer its characteristic taste. Dry, tart, citrusy and deliciously refreshing on a hot summer’s day.
102-450 Hillside Ave. Victoria BC I (250) 590-3555 driftwoodbeer.com
Vancouver Island’s FREE coupon and affordable living magazine
| AlmostFreeMagazine.com
35
CO MMUNITY
culture
A House In George Square BY JENNY HAINSWORTH AULD
In the last summer of the twentieth century, I found myself leaving Scotland, my home for the previous two years, and heading south to travel around France, Italy and Greece. Before you hate me too much, let me explain that this was the result of a series of strange events. I had come to Scotland on a scholarship, which I had struggled and scrapped to achieve, pooryet-plucky style, only to discover that grad school was nothing but a nightmare. I woke up every morning and burst into tears when I realized that this was no dream – I was stuck here, far from home, in a spikey, grey city where nothing was familiar and the people had a tendency to mock you openly for their amusement. I adjusted over the two years to the more abrasive traits of the Scottish people, to the spikes, and to the country itself. In fact I grew to love it, as any fool could have predicted. I even embraced some of the more obnoxious nomenclature, like calling granola bars “flapjacks” and suspenders “braces.” (The Scots would argue that the word “suspenders” was reserved for the concept we call “garter belts.” Honestly, they're too much.) But grad school was dead to me. I withdrew, got a job in a cafe on the castle mound, and never looked back. Making cappuccinos for tourists for three quid an hour was bliss by comparison.
bequest of spiritual children who had gone to their heavenly reward. The adjoining house bore a brass plaque declaring that it had belonged to Sir Arthur ConanDoyle.
In those days, dear reader, I was very religious. I was a diehard church girl with a young husband to match. We attended every service in the tiny Russian Orthodox church in George Square. I would sing the sung parts and he would read the readings. Morning before work, we were at Matins. Evening before supper, we were at Vespers. The church kept a monastery schedule, hence the frequency of the services. I got very good at singing the Lord's Prayer in Russian and Greek. My clothing reeked constantly of incense from Mount Athos – rose, frankincense, cedar. Depending on the day.
Then in 1999, the bottom fell out of the oil industry, with the price of crude falling to a few dollars per barrel. Cairn began to lay off staff, beginning with foreigners and recent hires. My husband was both. He was out of a job, I was washed up as an academic. There was nothing left but for him to become a priest, or so we reasoned.
The church was the converted front room of a Georgian row house – the kind you see in the opening credits of Coronation Street. The house was owned by a frail, wizardesque monk named Father John Maitland Moir. It was rumoured that, despite his ascetic lifestyle, Father John owned a lot of property in Edinburgh and beyond. Some was from family inheritance, some the
36
AlmostFreeMagazine.com | SUMMER 2016
My husband had managed to get a job in an oil company called Cairn Energy. This was achieved through family connections, which, it turns out, is the only way to get a job in Edinburgh that pays more than three quid an hour. Thus he was able to keep me in Strongbow and macaroni pies while I taught myself calligraphy and tried to figure out what to do with my life.
We phoned our bishop back in Canada. “When should we go to St Vlad's?” (St Vladimir's Seminary is in New York.) “Why not this fall?” said the bishop. It was April. Cairn Energy gave my husband a lump sum as a consolation for being let go. “Should we pay down our student loan, or travel around Europe for the summer, while we're already here?” we asked ourselves. “The Europe thing.” We answered. Thus, come June, we found ourselves owning nothing but two new backpacks, two new pairs of sturdy shoes, and a few changes of clothes. We locked our empty flat and walked across The Meadows to our last Vespers in Scotland.
CO M M U NI T Y
culture
After the service, Father John MaitlandMoir shuffled outside onto the front stoop to bid us farewell. In the green and gold light of the northern summer evening, you could see the neatly stitched patches on his cassock and the blackonblack embroidered grape vines around its collar. He had a couple of questions to ask us young people before we left. “What is The Internet?” We did our best to answer him.He pulled thoughtfully at his beard for a moment. “What is Email?” Again we attempted to answer, and again he mulled over this brave new world. Finally, he raised a bony hand over us in blessing, murmured “Kalo taxidi”, and disappeared back inside. We had given him a giant eraser as a parting gift, and told him that he was not allowed to die until it was used up. He died about four years ago. I don't know the state of the eraser. I imagine there is a lot left. I don't know who, or what, inherited the house in a Scottish city that was somehow also an Athonite monastery. We caught the train of Waverley, away from Edinburgh. We quoted Keats as the hills and villages unfurled out the train window, because we were total cheeseballs. “O for a beaker full of the warm South/ Full of the true, the blushful Hippocrene.” Whatever that was. We were on our way to find out. Jenny Hainsworth Auld is a BC born painter and writer living in Victoria. Find her art and stories on her Facebook page "Jenny Hainsworth Auld Fine Art."
Money Sense with Murphy Wall-Beds & Custom Cabinetry BEDROOMS
CLOSETS
OFFICES
KIDS ROOMS
SEWING ROOMS
CUSTOM CABINETS
Money Sense – Saves Space - which: 1. Saves Building cost - i.e. a smaller home means less roofing, flooring, and general building costs. 2. Saves Maintenance & Cleaning costs – smaller foot print to care for on a regular basis. 3. Saves on Utilities – electricity, gas etc. – one room can be 2 or 3 rooms in one! 4. Saves Stress – allows organization in multifunctional room. 5. Saves Local Economy – supports Murphy WallBeds & Custom Cabinetry – serving Vancouver Island for more than 25 years!
Vancouver Island’s
ONLY AUTHORIZED
MURPHY WALL BED DEALER
Unit C – 3075 Douglas St. Victoria, BC | 250.744.2195 | 1.800.670.5505 murphybeds-victoria.com
Art by Jenny Hainsworth Auld
Vancouver Island’s FREE coupon and affordable living magazine
| AlmostFreeMagazine.com
37
MO NEY
cents
UNDERSTANDING
Investment Fees BY JEN PATERSON & SAIRA WATERS Co-Founders of Dollar Divas
When you are considering investing, how much you have to pay can be confusing. Investing fees are a multifaceted entity that can be easily misunderstood. The fees depend on how you invest, whom you invest with and what you invest in. How you invest and whom you invest with DIY Investment Site: These fees can be as low as $5 per trade, which means you pay $5 when you buy and $5 when you sell. Make sure you read the fine print on the website, as each site will charge differently. Also, make sure you are clear about what you are investing in, as each type of investment may have different fees. Bank: Many people aren’t aware of this, but banks do charge fees when you invest with them. Even the poorly named “no-load investments” include fees. Here is how that works: you don’t
38
pay any fees when you invest, but you do pay a monthly charge for holding your money inside the investment. This is called the Marginal Expense Ratio, or MER (find more on MERs below). Be on the lookout for MERs with most bank investments. Financial Advisor: How financial advisors charge fees varies. Some charge a flat monthly fee, while others charge based on transactions. If you are working with a financial advisor, the best thing to do is talk to them about their fees. Most have at least some control over how much they charge, so be sure to ask.
What do you invest in Stocks & Bonds: When purchasing an individual stock or bond, the most common fee structure is transactional. This means you pay a set fee or a percentage of your investment every time you buy or sell shares. Flat fees can range from $5 to $100 per trade and percentages can range from 0.05% to
5%. Sometimes advisors discount these fees based on how much you invest with them. Mutual Funds: These are the most misunderstood investment products on the market. The fee structures are also very commonly misunderstood. Mutual fund fees are split into two camps: upfront fees and MERs. Upfront or Purchase Fees: When you hear people referring to the “load” of a mutual fund, this is the fee they are referring to. There are three types of loads: Front End Load, Back End Load (also called Deferred Service Charge) and No Load. Front End Load: This is when you pay a percentage of your investment upfront. This fee is what pays an advisor’s commission. It usually ranges from 0 to 5% and is generally chosen by the advisor. For example, if you invest $100,000 and pay 2% front end load, $2,000 is paid to the advisor in commission and $97,000 is invested.
M O NEY
Back End Load: This is a very contentious subject in the investment world simply because it’s not generally explained properly. There are no upfront costs but if you pull your money out of the investment, you get hit with a big fee. The amount of the fee decreases with every year that you hold your money in the investment. Using the above example, all of the $100,000 goes into the investment. But if you pull out in the first year, you pay 5.5% in fees, which is $5,500. Usually a deferred service charge schedule runs anywhere from three to seven years. No Load: No load is common at big institutions, like banks. Here you don’t pay an up-front charge and there generally isn’t a fee to remove your investment early. However, you might want to read the fine print carefully: while there may not be deferred service charges, there may be early withdrawal penalties. It is a way to avoid the stigma of deferred service charges without losing out on fees.
SierraSil with Curcumin: The Natural Approach to Joint Pain
Whether you’re a weekend warrior, an occasional gardener or someone with mild to chronic joint pain and stiffness, SierraSil®, a pure, natural mineral complex, has been clinically shown to reduce joint pain and inflammation. By supporting gentle detoxification, this supplement makes everyday life a whole lot easier. With numerous research studies conducted throughout the years, many individuals including athletes, professionals and those dealing with joint pain, have benefited from SierraSil. Within 14 days of supplementation, they have been living life to the fullest with less pain and more mobility. SierraSil offers four products: Joint Formula 14 and Joint Formula Active to calm inflammation and detoxify the body to ease joint pain, Topical Spray for instant relief of joints and muscle aches, and Leaps and Bounds for your dog. Joint Formula 14 SierraSil Joint Formula 14™ contains SierraSil, a patented, 100% naturallyoccurring hydrothermal mineral composite containing a wide array of macro and trace minerals including silicon, calcium, potassium, magnesium, iron, manganese, copper, zinc, and co-occurring minerals. SierraSil is sourced from a remote mineral deposit in the pristine Sierra Mountains of the western United States. Unlike other joint supplements, SierraSil targets the root cause of joint and muscles
MERs: Marginal Expense Ratios, or MERs, are monthly charges that are present on every type of mutual fund and ETF (exchange traded fund). They can range from 0.05% to 3% and are not listed on your statement, which is why most people don’t know they are charged. For example, when an investment with a 2% MER makes a return of 8%, 2% of that return is given to the investment company to pay for the investment manager and administration. The investors see a return of 6% on the statement. This occurs every month regardless of whether the investment makes money or not. If the fund has a loss of 2%, the investors show a loss of 4% on their statement. A note on “fee for service”: A coming trend in the financial advising profession is “fee for service” advice. These fees can be charged in a few different ways. Some advisors charge a monthly fee for unlimited access and trades. Another way is a one-time charge for a creating aches while reducing cartilage breakdown. With strong detoxifying properties, SierraSil helps remove toxins from the body and flush them through the digestive system, while being easy on the stomach. The synergistic effect of the unique properties of SierraSil results in significant relief of discomfort associated with physical activity, aging, and some health conditions such as osteoarthritis. These include joint and muscle pain, stiffness, particularly delayed onset stiffness (the day after a heavy workout), and acid reflux. The anti-inflammatory effects of SierraSil are clinically proven to reduce symptoms of osteoarthritis related to inflammation. Research studies suggests that SierraSil has a more systemic anti-inflammatory effect that may extend to other areas of the body and consequent efficacy in reducing other sources of inflammation. Many people experience results within 14 days and find it extremely effective long term, making it part of their daily health regimen. The benefits of SierraSil Calms inflammation Detoxifies the body Eases joint and muscle aches Reduces cartilage breakdown 100% vegetarian and vegan GMO free, gluten free BC Kosher certified Suitable for most dietary types, including diabetics and celiac sensitivities Joint Formula Active Joint Formula Active is a blend of Meriva® curcumin and a lower dose of SierraSil
cents
a financial plan that is carried out by the client. The most common type is simply an hourly charge for their time. Before you sign on the dotted line with a “fee for service” advisor, be sure to ask about hidden costs, the types of investments they recommend and what their qualifications are. Fewer regulatory bodies govern these types of advisors, and you may not be getting quality advice. The best way to be informed about investment fees is to ask a lot of questions. If you aren’t getting the answers that you want, you are always within your rights to take your money elsewhere. Jen Paterson, Financial Expert & Saira Waters, REALTOR® with Royal LePage, teamed up to create Dollar Divas, the Meetup group for women who want to be financially independent! To learn more about Dollar Divas, check out www.dollardivas.org or find us on Facebook.
mineral complex. Meriva curcumin is a good source of antioxidants, which provides numerous health benefits including joint health support and assistance with maintaining the body’s normal inflammatory response. Topical Spray Are you looking for instant relief on minor aches and pains? SierraSil’s Topical Spray includes 7 of the world’s finest pain reducing ingredients, including camphor oil (white), eucalyptus oil, aloe vera oil, peppermint oil, rosemary oil, lemon oil, orange oil, as well as the SierraSil minerals. The spray contains no preservatives, synthetics, additives or fillers. “We chose to try SierraSil after trying many other pain relief products, supplements and treatments for hip pain. After a year of trying different products, we tried the SierraSil Pain Relief Spray. It worked immediately and an added bonus is that it is an all-natural product.” – SierraSil Customer. Two to four sprays of SierraSil Topical Spray to the affected area will increase blood flow to help reduce pain receptors, promote healing activity and relieve muscles soreness and joint pain. The Topical Spray can be used during massage, physiotherapy sessions or added to a running bath, capturing pain and tensions of the entire body. Don’t let the pain or stiffness stop you from doing what you love most. For more information, visit www.SierraSil.com.
Vancouver Island’s FREE coupon and affordable living magazine
| AlmostFreeMagazine.com
39
ARTS &
enter tainment
FINDING YOUR INNER BOB ROSS AT PAINT NITE
Ever thought you had a creative streak just lurking beneath the surface, waiting to burst out of your fingertips? How does drinking cocktails and socializing with friends while learning to paint by route sound? Welcome to Vancouver Island’s popular Paint Nite. An event, happening at different venues across town (such as bars, golf courses, and pubs) throughout the summer. Paint Nite is a fun creative event where everyone from first-time painters, to experienced veterans can follow a highlyskilled and trained artist along a Bob-Rossesque tutorial to create a beautiful work of art. That they get to take home at the end of the night. Though I have always had an appreciation for fine art, I never explored this particular inkling as an adult. So, in June, I signed up for Paint Nite at the Highland Pacific Golf Course in Victoria where the ultra- creative Ginja Lion (aka Kim Newns) was hosting and instructing participants on a how-topaint her dreamy landscape painting, A Midsummer Night’s Stroll. Kim, the self-designated CFO (Chief Fun Officer), tells me how she went through a lengthy process to become one of the key instructors on Vancouver Island. Studying business in University helped, as well as her two years of training in Public Speaking with Toastmasters, but it is her passion for helping others find their inner creativity that motivates her most of all. “I am motivated by encouraging people to embrace creativity and try new things. We are ALL creative - you may just need to find your inner Bob Ross - and that is what we are here for!” Newns says about Paint Nite. As she can attest to, No experience is required. Paint Nite teachers provide step-by-step instructions that everyone can follow along with. They make sure to
40
check on everyone and help them catch up when needed. There is always a break in the middle, during which volunteers can give participants some extra support. It is a judgement-free zone. All the supplies are provided: blank canvas, 3 different size paintbrushes, blobs of acrylic paint in different shades on a color palate, cup of water, aprons, and of course, the drinks (disclaimer: people pay for the drinks). Famous Television host and American painter Bob Ross once said, “We don't make mistakes; we just have happy accidents.” Perhaps I’ve found another creative outlet, maybe I’ll bring my mother next time. Kim Newns will be taking some holiday this summer to enjoy the Gulf Islands though there are many talented artists who run events throughout the summer. To see the full schedule visit www.paintnite.com
EVENTS CALENDAR 1) Dvořák's New World Wednesday, July 20, 2016 @ 7:30 pm Join the Victoria Symphony at Christ Church Cathedral for a concert dedicated to Czech composer Antonín Dvořák. Incorporating melodies of the folk music from his native Bohemia, Dvořák’s work reflects his love for his native land in the characteristic rhythms of his Slavonic Dances. His “New World” Symphony, also on the program, is his most popular symphony. Tickets for this concert are $20 and are available through the Victoria Symphony Box Office or at Christ Church Cathedral. Please call 250.385.6515 for details. Victoriasymphony.ca 2) Symphonic Dances Wednesday, July 27, 2016 @ 7:30 pm Join guest conductor Alastair Willis and the Victoria Symphony for an evening of Symphonic Dances including the
AlmostFreeMagazine.com | SUMMER 2016
Tchaikovsky’s Polonaise from Eugene Onegin and scenes from Swan Lake as well as Strauss’ Blue Danube Waltz in the hallowed halls of Christ Church Cathedral. Organist and Cathedral favourite Michael Gormley also shines two organ concertos including Albinoni’s Adagio for Organ and Strings. Tickets for this concert are $20 and are available through the Victoria Symphony Box Office or at Christ Church Cathedral. Please call 250.385.6515 for details. Victoriasymphony.ca 3) Dancing Through The Ages Drop-in Renaissance Dance. Wide variety of Dances from slow and graceful to lively tunes. All steps taught and called. Tuesday evenings 7-9pm Ukrainian Hall 3277 Douglas (Corner of Douglas &Roderick). Downstairs Hall off Roderick—onsite parking $5/ night to cover hall costs, first time Free Heatherbubiak@shaw.ca 4) Langham Court Theatre's Let’s Create A Play Summer Theatre Camp, facilitated by Tumbleweeds Theatre, brings a theatre camp experience to Victoria like none other this summer for two weeks, July 18th-29th. A completely immersive experience in acting, production and life in a working theatre. Participants will work together to create an original production from scratch to be performed on July 29th inside the historic Langham Court Theatre. Two streams available for youth ages 8-11 and 12-16. Have fun and create memories to last a lifetime. Registration through Langham Court Theatre: Phone : (250) 384-2142 Registration is limited to 24 so call now! Deena Kinarthy, Arts & Entertainment and Media Expert deena.vaf@gmail.com
A R TS &
Dancing Through The ages
enter tainment
Langham court theatre, partnered with tumbleweeds theatre, cordially invite you to our
Let’s Create A Play Summer Theatre Camp 2016 July 18-29th
• 2 weeks to hone your craft • 2 weeks inside a working theatre to call home • 2 weeks to create an original production • Have fun and create memories to last a lifetime 2 streams to choose from:
Drop-in Renaissance Dance Wide variety of Dances, from slow and graceful to lively tunes All steps taught and called No costume Required
Tuesday Evenings 7-9pm Ukrainian Hall 3277 Douglas Downstairs Hall $5/night to cover hall costs First time free
heatherbubiak@shaw.ca
Stream 1 8-11 years of age July 18-29 10:00am-12:30pm, monday-friday $250.00 Stream 2 12-16 years of age July 18-29 10:00am-3:00pm, monday - friday $350.00
registration through Langham court theatre: Phone:(250) 384-2142 registration is limited to 24 so call now!
(Langham court and tumbleweeds members are $300.00)
Angkor
Retreat
January 11 - 19, 2017 • 20 Hours of Master Classes with Belly Dance Guru, Nath Keo
• Traditional Breakfast and Lunches included each day
• 10 Nights Accommodation at a 4Star Boutique Hotel (double occupancy) • Tours of the world famous Angkor Archaeological Cities and Temples • Boat Trips - Reservoirs and Floating Villages
• Traditional Khmer Massage • Museums + Cultural Shows • Non-dancer Package available
angkor-retreat.com Vancouver Island’s FREE coupon and affordable living magazine
| AlmostFreeMagazine.com
41
shop OAK BAY
shop OAK BAY
2188 Oak Bay Avenue Victoria BC V8R 1G3 ivysbookshop @ ivysbookshop.com
VILLAGE
2188 Oak Bay Avenue Victoria BC V8R 1G3 ivysbookshop @ ivysbookshop.com
1
2
105-2250 Oak Bay Ave. Victoria, BC V8R 1G5 250-590-0833 www.muckymutt.com
2188 Oak Bay Avenue Victoria BC V8R 1G3 ivysbookshop @ ivysbookshop.com
4
3
Offering Farmhouse French, Nordic French and Vintage Inspired goods for the home and garden.
2188 Oak Bay Avenue Victoria BC V8R 1G3 ivysbookshop @ ivysbookshop.com
JUSU BAR, Victoria’s first 100% organic cold-press juice bar, offers up satisfying, nutritious juices & smoothies for every lifestyle. Our mission is simple: to educate & empower everyone, no matter their age or background, to live a healthy, vital life.
1848 Oak Bay Avenue (250) 592-0422
2188 Oak Bay Avenue Victoria BC513 V8R 1Fisgard G3 ivysbookshop @ ivysbookshop.com St & 2560B Sinclair Rd
www.frenchvanillahome.com
jusubar.com
5
BESPOKE
Victoria retailer of “Fusion™ Mineral Paint” for furniture and more!
6
D E S I G N
B I
Paint, Wallpaper, Lighting, Bedding & Accessories 2 5 0 2 9 8 11 0 5 w w w.b e s p o k e d e sig n.c a
Only at Heart Ph. at Fairf ield, New Fresh Beauty DAIRYFACE
42
AlmostFreeMagazine.com | SUMMER 2016
shop OAK BAY
“And so with the sunshine and the great bursts of leaves growing on the trees, just as things grow in fast movies, I had that familiar conviction that life was beginning over again with the summer.” St. Fort
Delici
Leighton Rd.
Yale St.
5
4
1
Oak Bay Ave.
3
2
Oak Bay Ave.
CATERIN
6
Have yo b
Brighton Ave.
Brighton Ave.
Foul Bay Rd.
Monterey Ave.
St. Patrick St.
Hampshire Rd.
Mitchell St.
Chamberlain St.
Richmond Ave.
Rockland Ave.
Brighton Ave.
Monterey Ave.
Foul Bay Rd.
Richmond Ave.
t. rt S Fo
From a
I’ve got a se not cooked all week… a grocery sho
Does this m and wife? No. Why?
I’ve discove personal ch Plump Plat
PROUDLY SPONSORED IN PART BY:
Delicious. No Work. Great Value.
grocery sho delectable,
Personalized Chef Services Weekly Meal Service Special Event Catering Just Because Dinner Parties Corporate Lunch Services
You might t service wou am paying that I was s Now I save because I d for food and
Specializing in a personalized nutritional approach for your unique health!
CATERING THE SOUTH & CENTRAL ISLAND
For the past scallop risot
@Plump-Plate-Cater
plumpplate@gmail.com | 250.419.2579 | www.plumplate.com | Victoria, BC
Have you ever wondered what it would be like to have a Personal Chef ?
Vancouver Island’s FREE coupon and affordable living magazine
| AlmostFreeMagazine.com
43
F ORT ST & DOWNTOWN AREA
shop FAB U LOU S
shop FA B ULOUS
Victoria Homes
,
.
FORT ST & D OWNTOW N A R EA IN V I CTORI A
Dutch Bakery
3
$20.00 anywhere in the Diner, Bakery or Chocolate Counter. Expires Sept 30/16
BRING WELLNESS & ELEGANCE INTO YOUR EVERYDAY!
#
and Diner
$5 OFF when you spend
#
1
Specializing in European Pastries, Cakes, Cookies & Chocolates – Full service diner offering full breakfast and lunch menus.
Proudly Serving Victoria for over 40 years!
A.A.A. Stamp Coin Jewellery Inc. 809 Fort Street, Victoria, BC 250-384-1315 www.aaacoinandstamp.com
250.882.4210 www.olivethesenses.com
IN THE HUDSON, 1701 DOUGLAS ST VISIT OUR ONLINE STORE
4
#
Western Canada’s Largest collectables store
ANY PURCHASE
OFFER VALID ONLY WITH COUPON. EXPIRES SEPT 30, 2016
Dutch Bakery and Diner 718 Fort Street, Victoria BC 250-385-1012 Open Monday - Saturday 7:30AM-5:30PM
2
10% OFF
10% OFF any purchase with this coupon Expires Sept 30, 2016
822 Fort Street, Victoria, BC 250-383-3524 victoria@flagshop.com www.flagshop.com
Colony of Vancouver Island Flag
Remembering Linda Rafuse, Owner of Satin Moon Quilted Garden November 16, 1964 - June 7th, 2016
The world lost a beautiful person last month and we will not forget you. The staff at the magazine, and the Publisher Elissa Bergman got to know Linda in a professional manner and that grew to a friendship. Linda had a heart of gold embracing each greeting or conversation with love and openness, interest, passion, and a smile and laugh that imprinted a contagious memory on those she met. We aspired to her positivity and zest for life. Quilting had always been a passion for Linda and you would often find her sewing away in the Fort St storefront window with a big smile on her face and a wave to neighbours passing by. When she saw an opportunity to buy the busy, well-established quilt
44
AlmostFreeMagazine.com | SUMMER 2016
Linda in her favourite sewing spot by the window
shop in 2011, she jumped on it. The former psychiatric nurse and educator from Edmonton moved to Victoria four years ago to buy Satin Moon. “The shop has been here for 38 years and I was familiar with it on my visits to Victoria, so it was a wonderful opportunity” she shared with the magazine in December 2015. Linda put her own personal touch to the cozy, comfortable store, including lots of pink – her favourite colour.
FO R T ST & D OWNTOWN AREA
shop FABULO US
KEB
“Let us dance in the sun, wearing wild flowers in our hair...”― ~ Susan Polis Schutz e St Ellic
ve ide A Hills
id St Dav
Bay St
Discovery St Government St
Store St
Herald 5 St
3 3
5
Vancouver St
Pembroke St
Quadra St
art St Blanch
Queens Ave Princess Ave
from around the globe, this street takes its food seriously… so come hungry! Eat, drink and be entertained as you wander from shop to shop exploring the locals street!
Fisgard St Cormorant St
Gove rnme nt St
2 View S 2
1
Vancou ver St
1
Fort St
Quadra St
Blansh ard St
Yates S t
Cook S t
Pando ra Ave Dougla s St
Johnso n St
Fabulous Fort St in Victoria From the ocean right on up to the castle …Fort Street is truly Victoria's main street. Peppered with unique and one of a kind shops, boutiques, eateries & restaurants, this street is a treat for Bay Ba y St t all the senses. Not only isSthis street home to some of the city's oldest and most established businesses, it is quickly
Bay St Cook S t
Government St
St John
x
Pandora Ave
4 t APPROVAL REQUESTED 4
Any correction to the ad must be requested by the customer within 48 HOURS following the reception of this approval request in order to meet the closing dates, which vary from one issue to another.
Court
Fort St
t St APPROVAL REQUESTED For Any correction to the ad must be requested by the customer within 48 HOURS following the reception of this approval request in order to meet the closing dates, which vary from one issue to another.
neyCHANGES St ARE MADE TO THISPLEASE PLEASE NOTE: YOUR AD WILL RUN “AS IS” UNLESS PROOF, SO PLEASE THERUN “AS IS” UNLESS CHANGES ARE MADE TO THIS PROOF, SO PLEASE CHECK THE NOTE: YOURCHECK AD WILL FOLLOWING CLOSELY... OFFER(S) EXPIRY DATE ALL WRITTEN COPY FOLLOWINGNAME/ADDRESS/PHONE CLOSELY... OFFER(S) EXPIRY DATE ALL WRITTEN COPY NAME/ADDRESS/PHONE CoTo Thank You For Using Direct Response Media Group Advertising Your Business. urtPromote neThank y St You For Using Direct Response Media Group Advertising To Promote Your Business. Local: 416-321-9900 Toll Free: 1-855-321-9903 Fax: 416-321-0098 Web: www.drmg.com Local: 416-321-9900 Toll Free: 1-855-321-9903 Fax: 416-321-0098 Web: www.drmg.com
DOCKET: 99582
REP CODE: CWI
TRIM: 8.25” X 5.25”
SAFE: 8” X 5”
DATE: JUL 28/15 MAILING: VIC8 DOCKET: 99582 REP CODE: CWI PRODUCTION ARTIST: W.T. BLEED: 8.5” X 5.5” TRIM: 8.25” XREV: 5.25” SAFE: 8” X 5” 1
DATE: JUL 28/15
MAILING: VIC8 PRODUCTION ARTIST: W.T. REV: 1
PROUDLY SPONSORED IN PART BY: BLEED: 8.5” X 5.5”
5
Vancouver Island’s FREE coupon and affordable living magazine
| AlmostFreeMagazine.com
45
PRESENT THIS COUPON FOR A
shop L ANGFORD
103–797 Goldstream Avenue (at Peatt Road), Langford www.bajarosis.com OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK
Manicure-Pedicure Combo
FOR
shop DOWNTOW N
2
1
Family Owned and Operated. Kid Friendly.
R E J U V E N A T I O N S113-735 Goldstream Ave.
Expires Dec 20/2015
L A N GRejuvenations FORD
Ditch the Workout! Join the Party! You and a friend TWO 5-class passes HOLIDAY one price PACKAGES & MONTHLY SPECIALS ONLINE
Fresh, Fast and Delicious CALI-MEX CUISINE
$59
NAILS, ESTHETICS & WELLNESS CENTRE
101-2843 Peatt Road 250.474.1401 www.rejuvenationsvictoria.ca
10 2
#
250-391-4047 www.threegringoscafe.com
NA ILS ESTHETICS & W ELLNESS CENTR E
IN OR TAKE OUT Call ahead Manicure & Pedicure ComboDINE and have your order ready for pick up! Just $59 (plus tax)
$25 Chip Repair
Expires September 30/16
101-2843 Peatt Road, Victoria BC
Best Price in the the city: up to 63% cheaper… all year
Jason Leslie A Smart Choice
Your trusted advisor for residential marketing and ...providing a means for increased self respect, self worth, and self professional representation of buyers and sellers esteem in the lives of each person who enters here by enhancing their jasonleslie.com office: 250.478.9600 Leslie physical Jason appearance and mental well being... Toll Free: 1.877.553.9601 PERSONAL REAL ESTATE CORPORATION
Email: jleslie@remax.net
Jason Leslie A Smart Choice
3
WANTED THIS COMMUNITY Your trustedIN advisor for residential marketing and professional representation of buyers and sellers
Jason Leslie Leslie Bergman Jason Call Elissa
PERSONAL REAL REAL PERSONAL ESTATE CORPORATION CORPORATION ESTATE
at 250.419.2579
5 6
#
250.474.1401 | rejuvenationswellness.com
Commission Sales250.478.9600 Associates jasonleslie.com office:
$84
Toll Free: Free: 1.877.553.9601 1.877.553.9601 Toll for this Community Page & Our Other Media Platforms Email: jleslie@remax.net jleslie@remax.net Email:
* Experience Required * Competitive Commission Rate *
OFF ANY IN-STORE PRODUCT ONE$10 COMPLIMENTARY NAIL TRIM or a FREE PET NAIL TRIM (value $10)
Join this Community-Minded, Supportive Team ! QUALITY USED BOOKS
when you present this coupon in-store
BONUS - bring in your furry friend and ask us for your FREE pet treat while shopping! EXPIRES DECEMBER 20, 2015 Expires Sept 30/16
Your pets source for health and happiness
Fiction/Self Help/Health & Diet/Cook Books/Literture Children’s/Science
751Goldstream GoldstreamAve, Ave,Langford, Langford, BC BC 250-590-4460 250-590-4460 751
Fiction/War/Western/Antiquest & Collectables, and more
FAMILY OWNED & OPERATED
6
!
411 11
Expires Sept 30, 2016
36
Van Isle Auto Glass 108-721 Station Ave, Langford, BC 250-474-5551 www.vanisleautoglass.com
106 - 721 Station Avenue, Victoria, BC 250-478-0914 www.dragonflybooks.ca
FREE
AlmostFreeMagazine.com | FALL 2015
VIAF_magazine_Oct2015_r6.indd 36
Specialty Coffee with any Meal
www.islandpetsource.com www.islandpetsource.com 7 2015-10-06 10:40 AM
(Limit one per person. Expires Sept 30, 2016)
dagwoods café 662 Goldstream Ave, Victoria, BC • Phone: (250) 590-4342 Street Food that Rocks! PG provides locally made and locally sourced quality foods to make happy bellies and smiling faces. We have yummy foods such as BBQ Pulled Chicken, Chicken Tacos, Gourmet Dogs and Smokies. We also provide Veggie options and many Gluten Free Options so almost anyone can taste the good stuff. Experience the difference at Pepperman’s Grill.
We are on the StreetFoodApp for Victoria, Facebook, Twitter / www.peppermansgrill.com
46
AlmostFreeMagazine.com | SUMMER 2016
Stra thm ore Rd
Sca fe R d
shop L A NGF ORD
Ave
Perc y Pl
Clau de R d
Gol dstr eam
Pea tt R d
“Summertime is always the best of what might be.”― ~ Charles Bowden
Jac obs on R d
Golds tream Ave Pea tt R d
nue n Ave Statio
Phip ps A ven ue
Mea ford Ave nue
Jac klin Rd
Langford Parkway
4 5
Pea tt R d
Oro no Ave
11
Dan broo k Av e
Bry nM aur Rd
Jac klin Rd
Hoc kley Ave
1A
3
Delici
63 22
5 4
14
CATERI Vete rans Me m o rial P arkw ay
Downtown Langford in Victoria Quickly becoming a central hub in the Western Communities, downtown Langford is quickly expanding where downtown Victoria businesses find their second location in the bustle of these streets. If you haven’t poked around Goldstream Avenue and area, you’re overdue. The ample free parking and densely situated shops make it an easy trip to discover ALL types of shopping. Go ahead and explore, eat, and be entertained!
Mas sie D r
7
Veterans Memoria l Parkway
Kno tty Pine Rd
1A
Have yo b
From a
I’ve got a s not cooked all week… grocery sh
Lan gfor d Pa rkw ay
Does this and wife?
No. Why?
I’ve discov personal c Plump Pla in Victoria grocery sh delectable
PROUDLY SPONSORED IN PART BY:
Delicious. No Work. Value. Interested inGreat participating in an issue? Personalized Chef Services Weekly Meal Service Special Event Catering Just Because Dinner Parties Corporate Lunch Services
You might service wo am paying that I was Now I sav because I for food an
Specializing in a personalized nutritional approach for your unique health! CATERING THE SOUTH & CENTRAL ISLAND
For the pa scallop riso
@Plump-Plate-Cate
plumpplate@gmail.com | 250.419.2579 | www.plumplate.com | Victoria, BC
Have you ever wondered whatIsland’s it would Vancouver FREE coupon and affordable living magazine | AlmostFreeMagazine.com be like to have a Personal ChefISLAND’S ? VANCOUVER AFFORDABLE LIFESTYLES MAGAZINE | AlmostFreeMagazine.com
47 37
Pain comes naturally, so can relief. Join the thousands of Canadians just like Maureen experiencing reduced aches and stiffness with SierraSil Joint Formula 14 ™. Guaranteed results in 14 days or less!
Try it today! Visit us in the health section of Victoria’s local Mother Nature’s Market & Deli in the heart of Cook St. Village.
#
SierraSil Joint Formula Active with curcumin
2
$ 00
($2.00 coupon for SierraSil Active with Curcumin Only)
COUPON valid until Sept. 30th 15th, 2016 While supplies last. PLU# 667 AlmostFreeMagazine.com |
MOTHER NATURE’S MARKET & Deli
SUMMER 2016
Be Healthy, Go Natural
240 Cook St, Cook St Village Victoria BC V8V 3X3 250-590-7390
#
available at Mother Nature’s Market & Deli. sierrasil.com for the Sierra story
OFF 48
sierrasil.com