Westender - December 11, 2014

DECEMBER 11-17 // 2014

EVERYTHING VANCOUVER

@WestenderVan

Bobbie Burgers: Into abstraction • CYCLISTS PLAGUE WEST END SIDEWALKS • • HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE • • THE WARM SOUNDS OF KINGFISHER BLUEZ •

Kyrani Kanavaros photo

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NEWS // ISSUES • STYLE // DESIGN • EAT // DRINK • MUSIC // ARTS • FILM // TV • HEALTH // SEX

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2 W December 11 – December 17, 2014

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NEWS // ISSUES

@WESTENDERVAN

INSIDE THIS WEEK

You’re All Just Jealous of My Jetpack by Tom Gauld

18

PUBLISHER DEE DHALIWAL DDHALIWAL@WESTENDER.COM MANAGING DIRECTOR GAIL NUGENT GNUGENT@WESTENDER.COM MANAGING EDITOR ROBERT MANGELSDORF EDITOR@WESTENDER.COM DISPLAY ADVERTISING SALES@WESTENDER.COM 604-742-8678 CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING 604-575-5555 CLASSIFIEDS@WESTENDER.COM CIRCULATION 604-742-8676 CIRCULATION@WESTENDER.COM WESTENDER #205-1525 W. 8TH AVE., VANCOUVER, BC, V6J 1T5

News4 Fashion6 A Good Chick to Know6 Celebrate Gift Guide8 Nosh13 Fresh Sheet13 By the Bottle14 The Growler14 Follow Me Foodie15 What’s On16 12 Music18 Cover Story19 Reel People20 Movie reviews21 Whole Nourishment23 Real Estate24 Out After Dark26 15 Drive28 Horoscopes29 Sex with Mish Way29 WESTENDER IS A DIVISION OF LMP PUBLICATION LIMITED PARTNERSHIP. ALL MATERIAL IS COPYRIGHTED AND CANNOT BE REPRODUCED WITHOUT PERMISSION OF THE PUBLISHER. THE NEWSPAPER RESERVES THE RIGHT TO REJECT ANY ADVERTISING WHICH IT CONSIDERS TO CONTAIN FALSE OR MISLEADING INFORMATION OR INVOLVES UNFAIR OR UNETHICAL PRACTICES. THE ADVERTISER AGREES THE PUBLISHER SHALL NOT BE LIABLE FOR DAMAGES ARISING OUT OF ERROR IN ANY ADVERTISEMENT BEYOND THE AMOUNT PAID FOR SUCH ADVERTISEMENT. WE COLLECT, USE, AND DISCLOSE YOUR PERSONAL INFORMATION IN ACCORDANCE WITH OUR PRIVACY STATEMENT WHICH IS AVAILABLE UPON REQUEST.

RANT//RAVE email: rantrave@westender.com ALL RANTS ARE THE OPINION OF THE INDIVIDUAL AND DO NOT REFLECT THE OPINIONS OF THE WESTENDER. THE EDITOR RESERVES THE RIGHT TO EDIT FOR CLARITY AND BREVITY, SO PLEASE KEEP IT SHORT AND (BITTER)SWEET.

GET A GRIP SCROOGE

Re: “Easy on the Xmas spirit…”, Nov. 27, Rants// Raves Pour on the Christmas spirit! With all the doom and gloom in the world, the news, we need more then ever to get into the Ho Ho Ho spirit and allow ourselves and friends to have joy, laughter, and gettogethers, share a sociable drink and delicious food, give our generosity and much, much more happiness and fun.

No lemon-suckers, no party-poopers, down with sour-pusses and crab apples!

You’re the same rotten bunch that cry the blues that Vancouver’s a no fun city.

Get a grip Scrooge!

Shame on you!

Lets jingle our bells, be happy, be grateful, sing, rejoice and praise this wonderful Christmas season, for it comes only once per year.

–Peter Perpar

A LIVEABLE CITY NO ONE CAN AFFORD TO LIVE IN

A recent televised news article informs us that people in apartments are now curtaining off spaces in their living rooms to accommodate a bed and renting out this space for $630 a month.

Such a bargain, such a great way of life. We have gone from mini-apartments the size of a parking space renting for $425 a month in the ‘90s to this.

Why stop there?

Our betters on council and in the development world could adopt Hong Kong’s answer to housing and the laissez faire capitalism they espouse: Cages measuring six feet long, 30 inches deep, and 30 inches tall, stacked three high. This would give minimum wage earners, piece and sweatshop workers the opportunity to live in this now-wonderful world class city.

What’s all this fuss

about our being one of the most liveable cities in the world?

–Victoria Joss

MAYORS PASS THE BUCK ON TRANSIT

Are we so naive that we aren’t up in arms against the referendum on transit funding?

Don’t we pay our mayors their high salaries to make these difficult decisions?

The inevitable outcome will be that one of the four unpopular options will be chosen by the electorate and the subsequent unpopularity of it will be batted away by the mayors with: “Well, that’s what you voted for”.

My suggestion is that no-one votes, we leave the decision up to the cowards we elected and they can then bear the consequent responsibility of their actions... As they are royally paid to do.

–Roger Watt

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life • people • culture • shops • services • health • sports • lifestyle • entertainment • food Westender.com

December 11 – December 17, 2014 W 3

NEWS // ISSUES

WESTENDER.COM

YOUR CITY

Cyclists still plague West End sidewalks ROBERT MANGELSDORF editor@westender.com

Rio Theatre hopes to get lit for Christmas KELSEY KLASSEN kelsey@westender.com

The Rio Theatre, one of the only remaining independently owned and operated theatres in Vancouver – and a beacon of culture and community – is undoubtedly beloved. Maybe its because they’ve been serving real butter on their popcorn since 1938, or maybe it’s because its stage has welcomed musicians like Jose Gonzales and Chad VanGaalen, roving comedians and ripping burlesquers, and the best cult classic costumes in the city.

But having concession wellstocked with beer and a film roster that makes memory lane look appealing on Friday nights hasn’t always spelled security.

In 2012, the Rio was at the centre of a highly publicized battle against the BC liquor board over provincial liquor laws that banned movies at the Rio once it received a liquor license for live events.

After four months of backand-forth that nearly put the Rio out of business, owner Corinne Lea and her support-

ers managed to modernize BC liquor laws for movie lovers all over the province.

But that fight took its toll.

“Business has been great,” writes Lea in the Rio’s Indiegogo campaign, “but 2012 left us with a heavy burden of debt that we are still struggling to dig ourselves out of.

The biggest and most obvious example of our financial struggle? Look up. Way up.”

The Rio’s iconic neon sign has dwindled to just a few bulbs, leaving their corner of Commercial Drive dark and vaguely derelict.

“We need community support to light up the Rio’s sign for Christmas,” she continues.

“Together, we can brighten up one of East Vancouver’s busiest hubs by restoring the historic anchor of Commercial Drive. A brightly lit sign would also attract more customers, and help improve our independent business” According to Lea, the Rio needs $15,000 to “restore the sign to its original glory” and convert to environmentally friendly and efficient LED lights. The breakdown of the budget lists $10,000 to repair and restore the existing

sign and replace it with LED lights, a new transformer, plus cleaning of the sign and awning, $3,000 to service all the neon components, and 10 per cent for fees and taxes that will come off the total amount raised.

Lea adds helpfully that all it would take is 500 people donating $30 per bulb to achieve their goal.

As with all crowdfunded campaigns, supporters receive perks for their donations, including Rio passes (good for any Rio-produced event), passes for any event hosted at the Rio, t-shirts, VIP guest list treatment, private screenings (one of these has already been claimed by a big movie buff for $1,000), plus six months of big screen ads for businesses.

It has been set up as a fixed campaign, so the theatre needs to raise the entire $15,000 or it is deemed unsuccessful and all the money gets returned to the supporters. At press time, the theatre had hit $9,220 in contributions with 13 days to go.

To support the Rio, visit their fundraising page at Indiegogo.com W

The Vancouver Giants are proud to support minor hockey!

Purchase your tickets as the Giants host the Prince Albert Raiders on Wednesday, December 10.

Partial proceeds go towards supporting Vancouver Minor Hockey.

Tickets $16.

Order by phone at: 604-833-8019 or by email at: judith@essentialsupport.ca.

4 W December 11 – December 17, 2014

Despite the addition of a new cycling greenway through the West End, cyclists are still riling pedestrians by riding on sidewalks and ignoring traffic signals.

John Bacon owns a dogwalking business in the West End and says he can’t even count the number of times he’s almost been hit by cyclists flying down the sidewalk.

“Often I’m walking with four dogs at a time, and when a cyclist comes [riding down the sidewalk], it startles the dogs,” he says. “I have to pull them out of the way, and sometimes they try to bolt.”

Bacon has witnessed cyclists running red lights, running stop signs, riding through crosswalks, and generally wreaking havoc in the neighbourhood. Even on the new Comox-Helmcken Greenway bike route, which opened last year, Bacon says he routinely sees cyclists riding on the sidewalks.

Despite complaints to the police and to City Hall, Bacon says he sees little being done about what he considers to be a serious public safety threat.

This past July, a 43-yearold American tourist broke her back after being struck by a speeding cyclist along the seawall. In May 2013, a cyclist died after falling into traffic following a collision with a pedestrian on the sidewalk of the Stanley Park Causeway.

Last year, West End MLA Spencer Chandra Herbert called on the Vancouver Police Department to crackdown on cyclists who flout the law.

“As a cyclist, while I don’t agree with it, I can understand why some choose to ride on sidewalks. Roads are sometimes dangerous, and mostly not designed with cyclists in mind. I’m glad improvements for cyclist safety are underway across Vancouver,” Herbert

said in an open letter to VPD chief Jim Chu. “That being said I don’t think making sidewalks unsafe for pedestrians is acceptable. Sidewalk cycling remains a real issue in this community that merits action.”

City of Vancouver Director of Transportation Jerry Dobrovolny said the City is working with the VPD who enforce the BC Motor Vehicle Act and bylaws that apply to cyclists.

“As more cyclists take to the streets, everyone – cyclists and motorists – has to learn to share the road. Cyclists have the same rights and responsibilities as drivers,” he said.

The City is currently eyeing a goal of achieving zero traffic-related fatalities, and has commissioned a comprehensive study of cycling safety issues, to be released in the new year. This follows a similar Pedestrian Safety Study which was completed in 2012. Meanwhile, Vancouver Police have recently resorted to setting up radar traps along the seawall to get cyclists to slow down.

However, enforcement is just one part of the solution, Dobrovolny notes. Education and engineering are the other two components that contribute to safe cycling.

The City of Vancouver’s ongoing campaign to create protected bike lanes will allow cyclists to feel comfortable on the streets, and hopefully get them off the sidewalks.

That position is supported

by Vancouver cycling advocacy group, HUB. “Anyone who disregards traffic by-laws and road rules puts themselves and others at risk, and generally this is not restricted to cycling – it happens with people walking and driving vehicles too,” said Colin Stein, HUB’s director of communications. “We’re hearing more about the issues…and this is likely due to

the relatively high growth of cycling as a mode of everyday transportation.”

According to the City of Vancouver, the number of cycling trips in the city grew 41 per cent between 2008 and 2011.

“In the West End specifically, we’ve heard about sidewalk riding, and it’s mainly a symptom of the lack of designated space for cycling, combined with high pedestrian traffic in a dense area,” Stein said.

Better education for cyclists is another way to help curb the problem.

HUB offers “Bike Ed” courses that cover aspects of the Motor Vehicle Act and various city bylaws, and emphasize staying off the sidewalks except where signed as a shared path or in those municipalities that allow sidewalk cycling. But lawful behaviour and confidence on the roads go hand-in-hand, he notes.

“The fact that cyclists have the same responsibilities as drivers in terms of road use doesn’t necessarily mean they’ll feel comfortable doing so,” he says. “In that respect, expanded infrastructure to separate bikes from pedestrians and motor vehicles is needed, or at minimum demarcation of where bikes can be positioned on the road for optimum visibility and safety.”

However, Bacon says if cyclists aren’t comfortable riding in the streets, they should walk their bike on the sidewalk, or take the bus.

“I don’t have a problem with bike lanes, I’m glad they are putting in the infrastructure for cyclists, we need that,” he said.

“But there also needs to be enforcement. The cyclists need to use those lanes and follow the rules of the road.

“Cyclists have a right to the streets and a right to safety, but pedestrians have rights too, and we shouldn’t have to dive out of the way of vehicles on the sidewalk.” W

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NEWS // ISSUES

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YOUR CITY

Luxury car service seeks ticket to ride ANDREW FLEMING afleming@vancourier.com

Uber isn’t the only startup that thinks Vancouver is ripe for a change when it comes to how people are permitted to get around the city.

A new company called Ripe is pitching a proposal this week before the Passenger Transportation Board seeking 20 licences for mid-level luxury sedans passengers would be able to summon via smartphone and pay for their rides online.

But first they will have to overcome resistance from an industry that has a stranglehold on the market.

It’s the second time that Ripe has gone through the two-year application process, and president Otis Perrick said taxi and limousine companies have once again been vocal in trying to have it tossed out by the board, an independent tribunal established by the provincial government.

“I think where the problem lies, the parties that are objecting to us, the Vancouver Taxi Association, Vancouver Yellow Cabs,

Ripe’s Otis Perrick, left and business partner Ricky Goraya. Submitted Photo the suburban cabs, they are all concerned about what they would say is their turf and cars coming into their area,” said Perrick. “Why do we have so much opposition when we are offering a brand-new service in a mid-tier price level? People

are looking for a cashless, easy-to-use car service and they are willing to pay a little bit more for a luxury service. We’re not taking the place of taxis and we’re not competing with limos.”

Perrick, a 39-year-old entrepreneur who first made

his name in the gaming industry by providing customized personal avatars used in Xbox and PlayStation games, argues Ripe wouldn’t pose a threat to either the taxi or limousine companies because it would offer a different kind of service.

He described the opposition to allowing a new business model to operate as a form of bullying.

“Just as Uber tried to bully their way in by not being regulated first, I am going to compare the [taxi and limousine companies] as being bullies themselves for not wanting competition. They are nervous, they are upset and they don’t want the new kid… Vancouver is one of the most under-serviced cities in North America when it comes to availability of customer options when it comes to reliable hired car service.”

A recent study by Benn Proctor, an SFU public policy expert, found that Vancouver taxi fares are 15 per cent higher than in other major Canadian cities and that the city is underserviced with 40 per cent fewer cabs.

While other transportation companies oppose the idea of proving alternative options, Ripe’s application has received written endorsements from several other local businesses, including the Donnelly Group, Electronic

Arts, Ledcor Construction and the Trades Labour Group. Last month Canada’s Competition Bureau also gave their thumbs-up to the idea of allowing regulated digitally-based transportation companies, posting on their website that “these innovative business models have the potential to offer important benefits to consumers through more competition, including lower prices, greater convenience and better service quality for a variety of reasons.”

Perrick said there is room on the roads for everyone.

“When you want to select a car, you’re going to know how far away it is and how long it is going to take to get there. It’s not like phoning the abyss to get a car and you’re told it will take 10 minutes and it shows up an hour later. If you know it is 20 minutes away, you can either accept that ride or you can look for alternatives.”

The board will hear closing arguments tomorrow (Dec. 11) and is expected to release a decision by the end of January.

Courtesy of Vancouver Courier

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STYLE // DESIGN

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ALICIA QUAN

She describes herself as an average-sized girl with a regular clothing budget, and that’s precisely what draws you into Alicia Quan’s blog.

Quan, the digital darling behind Alicia Fashionista, isn’t interested in dropping a lot of cash on clothes she can’t afford, yet she’s proof that you can look like a million bucks on a budget.

“That’s No. 1 for me, because I can’t imagine spending thousands of dollars on a bag,” she says. “I just don’t have that kind of money, and I like to shop.”

Where does she spend her hard-earned cash? Joe Fresh, Plenty, Forever 21, Le Chateau, Vancouver jewelry brand Olive + Piper, Zara, and Topshop, among others.

Quan has been chronicling her take on fashion since 2008.

She started blogging as a lark, borrowing the idea from a friend who was doing it.

“Five people read it. I never told anyone about it,” she says about the early days. “It was never something I thought would be a business… even now I think it’s weird, but back then it was really weird.”

Clearly Quan has found her footing with a blog that highlights her mercurial fashion moods – fun, light-hearted outfits one day, sophisticated the next, and always expertly put together.

JILL LANSKY

She wore the same grey sweat suit to school every day until seventh grade when she discovered clothes the old-fashioned way – through print magazines.

Now Jill Lansky is creating her own editorial landscape through her blog, The August Diaries, where she highlights her personal style – Parisian chic with a West Coast sensibility.

Lansky launched her fashion blog four years ago as a creative outlet.

“When I first started out, it was pretty low-key. I think I used my iPhone and then you slowly realize just how important photography is in setting you apart in the massive blog world,” she says.

There is pressure to keep up with the expectations that she present an entirely new outfit with every post.

“Especially since people, and our society in general, they want new all of the time. [They] don’t want to

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LILYANNE NGUYEN

Lilyanne Nguyen puts it all on the page with her blog, Bleed for Fashion, which is peppered with confessional posts along with pictures of her edgy style.

“If you read my blog, I hardly ever talk about my clothes, except to say what I’m wearing,” she says. “I’ve never been interested in fashion writing; it’s all about my life.”

Nguyen wants readers to

see someone who is more than just pixels on a screen.

“It’s one thing to inspire people with my style,” she says, “but it means so much more when I can inspire them with words.”

Nguyen has no regrets about posting about her money woes, work struggles, and insecurities, saying the feedback from readers around the globe who can relate to her struggles confirms why she does it.

“You can be anybody you want on the Internet.

You can be going through the shittiest times and have everyone think everything is great,” she says. “I don’t want people thinking that. I don’t want them to perceive [that] everything is perfect.”

Nguyen was at Aritzia’s head office for three years, but quit last summer. Today, she works part-time for a pet magazine and has partnered with a designer friend to launch an online store in the new year.

As for Nguyen’s favourite things to throw on: Roomy boyfriend jeans, a baggy sweater, with minimal accessories and a little attitude.

Email Vancouver fashion news and story ideas to nikihope@shaw.ca. Follow Niki on Twitter at @nikimhope. W

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see the same jacket for the entire winter.”

But she isn’t a slave to the demand, in part because she wants her blog to be accessible.

“I don’t want people to always be seeing me in a brand-new jacket because that’s just not how my life works,” says Lansky, who is a marketing coordinator at Terra Breads.

Her favourite shopping stops are Aritzia, Zara, Forever 21, H&M, and the “beautifully” curated vintage pop-up Hey Jude.

Lansky’s perfect outfit: “Jeans, a T-shirt, maybe a leather jacket and a pair of heels if I’m going out, or a pair of boots for the day,” she says. “I think simple is always better; it makes the look seem very effortless.”

decor. Barter, known for using natural elements that speak to West Coast beauty, is a forerunner in offering functional terracotta pieces that are as aesthetically

Refind, 4609 Main Ethnic influence has been a strong factor in design for 2014, remaining strong leading into the new year. One of my personal favourites is the Southwest style, rich with Navajo and cultural references that allow a broad spectrum of people to discover and appreciate patterns that have represented the original nations of our countries. This area rug, size-suitable for a

kitchen or entryway, takes the traditionally inspired patterns and brings them into 2015 design trends with a soft, muted neutral colour way.

Continued on next page Westender.com

STYLE // DESIGN

DESIGN

JEN ELLIS GOLD STACKING RINGS

Oliver and Lilly’s, 1575 West 6th While statement jewelry is certainly one of my style weaknesses, I have to admit my favourite accessories are the pieces that I can wear everyday – whether I’m in joggers or a cocktail dress – and add a subtly chic element to my look. I have purchased a number of these pretty Jen Ellis stacking rings over the last few years; I wear them everyday without thing them off and they look just as chic today as the first day I put them on. They create an effortlessly glam touch to my hands, yet are light enough that I can easily layer them with my larger rings for a more dramatic effect.

METRO TABLE LAMP

EQ3, 2301 Granville Lighting might just be my fave element to designing a space, so choosing a

stellar light piece takes both time and creative thought.

This lamp caught my eye as it happens to combine two of my favourite finishes: Copper/rose gold and white marble. While meeting many of the design trends for the upcoming season, the sleek silhouette and polished effect create a timeless style that easily translates for many different decor styles. I’m picturing it as a statement piece in a monochromatic white-toned room, but it would likewise be an ideal addition to a minimalistic office or heavily layered masculine space.

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MENDES DINING CHAIR

The Goods at Country Furniture, 3097 Granville I love it when “playful” makes an impact on “minimal”. The Mendes Chair plays with a more casual approach with softly rounded lines and smoked lucite, while the streamlined overall aesthetic and simple wood legs reference an upscale midcentury appeal.

I’ve seen this chair paired with an ultra-modern table to create a chic dining space, yet it would be perfectly placed as a side chair in an eclectic guest room or seating area when combined with interesting textiles; the Mendes offers versatility to the maximum, which is a key factor in any shoppers purchasing priorities considering the small space living we have become accustomed to within the city. W

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December 11 – December 17, 2014 W 7

HOLIDAYS //

WESTENDER.COM

CELEBRATE

Five gifts for preschoolers

Right: Tegu Blocks, Above: The Hockey Sweater, Anniversary Edition

Frozen is a top pick for preschoolers this year; it’s certainly a top pick for my four-year-old. So taking Frozen paraphernalia as given – and screen tech off the table entirely – here’s a list of toys and games that stimulate brains and imaginations (something we benefit from at every age).

other Tegu blocks and an imaginative child – well, that’s when incredible towers, animals, and otherworldly creations materialize. The 42-piece set – which includes nine different shapes and four wheels – is a must-have for burgeoning builders. $129 at Granville Island Toy Company.

TEGU BLOCKS

THE HOCKEY SWEATER, ANNIVERSARY EDITION

Every brightly coloured, wooden Tegu block contains several hidden magnets. On its own, that Tegu block is nothing remarkable, but when you combine it with

8 W December 11 – December 17, 2014

Roch Carrier’s classic story about a young Montreal Canadiens fan forced to wear a Toronto Maple Leafs sweater turned 30-years-old

this year, and it still hits all sorts of notes that resonate with hockey-loving parents and kids today. Earlier this month, Tundra Books released a 30th anniversary edition featuring 16 additional pages of historical background, photos, and quotes. Share this distinctly Canadian story with the preschooler in your life, and learn the story behind the story while you’re at it. $21.99 at Kidsbooks.

Continued on next page

Westender.com

CAMBIE ST.

HOLIDAYS //

@WESTENDERVAN

CAMBIE

Aarm Dental

Left to right: Quadrilla marble run; Playmobil; Music with Marnie

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QUADRILLA MARBLE RUN

There’s something mesmerizing about watching marbles race down and around one of Quadrilla’s runs, and now the Quadrilla people are adding a musical element to the already entertaining formula. The Hape Quadrilla Music Motion set includes little xylophone keys built into different building pieces, so marble-run builders can get even more creative with their construction.

Includes 77 wooden pieces and 20 marbles. $109.99 at The Toy Jungle

PLAYMOBIL

You can’t go wrong with Playmobil. The figures and play sets are fun and virtually indestructible (this from a mother who sent a couple of Playmobil fairies on an epic journey through the washing machine; everyone survived, no worse for wear). They’ve

got play sets for virtually every interest, from dragons to vet clinics, jungles to shopping centres, dinosaurs to outerspace. My daughter is drooling over the fire engine ($65.99) and the Princess Fantasy Castle with revolving dance floor ($189.99).

At Granville Island Toy Company.

EXPERIENCES

Some kids would rather have something to do than something to play with. Give your preschooler the gift of a 10-class card to YogaButtons ($100), a weekly mixed media crafting class at Collage Collage ($180) a You & Me (one grown-up, one child) membership to Science World ($110), or sign him or her up for a weekly Music with Marnie preschool class at Kitsilano Community Centre ($118).

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Sales • Service • Unicycles

Bringing you the bestest of the bestest!

Bring this ad in for $5 off any service CAMBIE VILLAGE – 3395 CAMBIE ST – 604.366.7636

Call to book, or come by.

WINTER BIKE SALE: 10-40% off all bikes!

FunhouseTattooing.blogspot.ca

3371 Cambie Street • 604.874.3616 www.cambiecycles.com

3001 Cambie St @ 14th • 604-879-4114 WINTER HOLIDAY SALE ON NOW up to

50% OFF Cakes • Pastries • Cookies and more!

4280 Main at 26th • 604-730-8689 www.hazelhipmoms.com

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100% gluten free using all natural ingredients

3385 Cambie Street • 604.873.9993 Open Tuesday through Sunday • lemonadebakery.ca

erotic lingerie, luxury toys & bondage

350 Water St. Gastown Van Open Daily 10-7pm/604.684.8065 3448 Cambie St. Van Open Daily 11-8pm/604.708.8065

www.honeygifts.com

December 11 – December 17, 2014 W 9

EAST VANCOUVLEER’S HOP S IC S U M T IT L T COOLES We have the best Ukulele selection in town.

4th at 2012 Commercial Drive

HAPPY HOLIDAYS

We’re a family owned business that offers a mix of Vietnamese and Thai cuisine.

Our healthy, fresh and delicious home-made flavours and reasonable prices bring you an enjoyable experience.

Authentic & traditional Indian Food prepared with fresh ingredients.

HAPPY

HOLIDAYS!

FIVE ELEMENTS CAFE 1046 Commercial Drive 604.559.5938 FiveElementsCafe.com

We cater to a wide variety of diets, including: vegetarian • vegan • gluten free dairy free • non-vegetarian

604.251.BONE (2663)

1128 Commercial Drive • 604-215-1130 • sulaindianrestaurant.com FREE delivery within 5km ($30 min. order) • $5 delivery to downtown

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Friendly advice – Great price!

For all your holiday needs...

Happy holidays!

Celebrating 50 years on THE DRIVE!

MAGNET

• Paint and Sundries • Kitchen Supplies • Garden Tools • Bedding Plants • Hardware

1575 Commercial Drive • 604.253.1747 facebook.com/magnethomehardware

10 W December 11 – December 17, 2014

GRAND OPENING SPECIALS! Buy 1 kit, receive 2 E-Juices FREE Expires Jan. 5, 2015 Deals on E-Juice!

10ml Juice $8 15ml Juice $10 30ml Juice $15

2260 Commercial Drive 778.903.3244 | 604.336.7753 splashvapour.com

New Sucks, Give Vintage.

941 Commercial at Parker

Open Every Day/604-255-3554 www.littlemissvintage.com

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HOLIDAYS //

@WESTENDERVAN

COMMERCIAL DRIVE

Five gifts for geeks ARRIVA

ristorante italiano

Warmly decorated eatery serving Italian fare including whole wheat, gluten-free & vegetarian pastas.

HAPPY HOLIDAYS! Clockwise from top left: Robot coasters by Megan Bennett; As You Wish: Inconceivable Tales from the Making of The Princess Bride; swordplay from Academie Duello; LEGO Star Wars Sandcrawler; Exit Canada.

· authentic Italian cuisine prepared fresh daily

· an extended selection of Italian and international wines

· ask about the “Daily Special”

1537 Commercial Drive 604.251.1177 arrivarestaurant.ca

Anticipate a bad hair day?

Don’t mullet over, book your appointment and receive $10 off your first hair service.

COMMERCIAL DRIVE Little Miss Vintage

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Sula Indian Restaurant

Arriva Magnet Stateside Ristorante Home Craft Hardware

The Princess Bride made us believe in mawwiage, inconceivable truths, and the revenge journey of Inigo Montoya – and now actor Cary Elwes, who played Westley, makes us fall in love with The Princess Bride all over again with his new book, a first-person account of the making of the cult classic film. The book is filled with never-before-told stories, exclusive photographs, and interviews with cast and creators. From $19 at ChaptersIndigo Books and other booksellers.

–Sabrina Furminger

RECORDS & CDs

Wednesday, December 24 & Friday, December 26

BROADWAY

Splash Vape Lounge 7TH AVE

4TH AVE

3RD AVE

Expedia CruiseShipCenters Audiopile Bone Rattle

1126 Commercial Drive • 604.255.5858 www.manifestosalon.com

AS YOU WISH: INCONCEIVABLE TALES FROM THE MAKING OF THE PRINCESS BRIDE

6TH AVE

Star Wars fans are currently nerdgasming over the newly released teaser trailer for Star Wars: The Force Awakens – but it’s going to be a long wait until December 2015, when the film finally drops into theatres.

Help the Star Wars fans in your life get through the year ahead with this absolutely epic, 3296-piece Lego Sandcrawler set. Includes 7 minifigures: Luke Skywalker, Uncle Owen, C-3PO and 4 Jawas, plus R2-D2, R2

unit, an R1-series Droid, Gonk Droid, R5-D4 and a Treadwell Droid. $349 at Toys R Us.

5TH AVE

LEGO STAR WARS SANDCRAWLER

2ND AVE

NAPIER

GRAVELEY

Gaming is a major part of geekdom, whether we’re talking video games, cards, or role-playing. But Exit Canada – which bills itself as “the ultimate real-life gaming experience” – blurs the world

between fantasy and reality.

Groups of players (anywhere from two to 10) are locked into a theme room – a lost ship, ancient Egypt, a prison, a creepy laboratory – and have to work together to escape. From $23 per person; book at E-Exit.ca.

1ST AVE

EXIT CANADA

Five Manifesto Elements Salon Cafe

PARKER

VENABLES

As we drink and await the cyborg invasion we’ve been promised time and again in Terminator films, these adorable mixed media robot coasters – handmade by Vancouver artist Megan Bennett – will keep our pints from leaving nasty moisture circles (‘cause moisture circles are almost as bad as cyborgs). $10 at Arts off Main and FiveCornersCreative.com.

Swordplay is in essential element of numerous fantasy and sci-fi stories. Geeks love dressing up as sword-wielding warriors for Fan Expo and conventions; why not give the geeks in your life some swordplay skills to go with the cosplay? Vancouver’s Academie Duello offers regular workshops and classes in all manners of swordplay (including rapier, longsword and sidesword). They’ve even got a Knight Camp for youth ages 8-14. From $60 at Academie Duello and AcademieDuello.com.

GRANT

ROBOT COASTERS

SWORDPLAY

WILLIAM

Geeks are some of the most passionate people on the planet. They love what they love – be it video games, Star Wars, Doctor Who, anime, comic books, Lord of the Rings, and fantasy books – with unadulterated glee. If you’re intimated by geekdom but want to buy a jaw-dropping gift for the geek in your life, fear not; The Force is strong with this gift list.

2016 Commercial Drive 604.253.7453 www.audiopile.com

December 11 – December 17, 2014 W 11

HOLIDAYS //

WESTENDER.COM

GRANVILLE

Give the gift of wine

Clockwise from top left: Thomas Haas Santa’s Sleigh; Chez Christophe Showpieces; Xoxolat Chocolate Shoe; Chocolate Arts Brownie Bûche; Beta 5 Chocolate Terrarium.

Edible Holiday Gifts FIVE CHOCOLATE GIFTS YOU’LL WANT TO KEEP FOR YOURSELF ‘Tis the season! They say it’s better to give than receive, but, if you’re lucky, you might get to be on the receiving end of one of these edible treats. If not, give with the hope of reciprocation next year…or just Scrooge it and keep it for yourself.

Chocolate Arts Brownie Bûche A Yule log is a classic holiday dessert, but how about a brownie version? This chocolate cone is adorned with 48 brownie bites, made from 61 per cent cacao solids and cacao powder, before being enrobed in dark or milk chocolate. $56 at Chocolate Arts. 1620 West 3rd.

ChocolateArts.com

Beta 5 Chocolate Terrarium Complete with its own glass bowl, this makes the perfect centerpiece that guests can then devour after the meal. Each fish bowl contains a five-inch-tall dark chocolate pine cone, spiced praline pecan or candied orange holiday chocolate pebbles, aerated peppermint “moss,” whipped hazelnut praline branches, and peanut butter snowballs. Good for 10-12 people. $150 at Beta 5. 413 Industrial. Beta5.

MyShopify.com Chez Christophe Showpieces Whimsical and delicious, these chocolate centerpieces will make both kids and kids-at-heart happy – and hungry. Reindeer, snowmen and holiday trees are all stuffed with chocolates in assorted flavours. $29.95 each.

4712 Hastings St, Burnaby.

Christophe-Chocolat.com Thomas Haas Santa’s Sleigh Handcrafted by Vancouver’s internationallyrenowned chocolatier, this elegant sleigh is filled with assorted truffles, chocolates and holiday treats. $49 at Thomas Haas. 2539 West Broadway (Vancouver) or 998 Harbourside Drive (North Vancouver). ThomasHaas.com Xoxolat Chocolate Shoe Combining fashion and food in one beautiful package, these handcrafted and custom-made chocolate shoes can be designed to suit the taste of the recipient.

And, with the bean-to-bar philosophy at this chocolaterie, you know the quality will taste as good as it looks. $35-$50 depending on the design, at Xoxolat. 1271 Homer. Xoxolat.com W – Anya Levykh

I’m not one to look a gift horse in the mouth especially when it’s bearing a bottle of vino. But as the gift bearer, the last thing you want is the wine to leave a lingering bad taste. Like any present, you should put some thought into it. This doesn’t mean spending more than you can afford. No matter what your budget, the wine should over-deliver for the price.

I’ve found a few gems that will taste like you spent way more that you did. Go ahead and pick up an extra bottle.

As with all the best gifts, you should want to keep it for yourself. One for you, one for me…

2012 Quinta do Ameal, Loureiro • Vinho Verde DOC, Portugal • $17.49 BC Liquor Stores Portugal is on fire when it comes to delivering great wines for the money, at ALL price points. And with a plethora of weird yet wonderful indigenous grapes, it also offers plenty of opportunity to introduce the wine aficionado to something new. If you are looking to give a unique yet affordable white, this Loureiro fits the bill. Light and refreshing yet totally characterful with lipsmacking notes of lime, white

grapefruit, and dried herbs.

2009 Xanadu, Cabernet Sauvignon • Margaret River, Australia • $24.99, BC Liquor Stores Forget about generic critter wines for under $15.

Australia’s true values cost a bit more but are well worth the extra dollars. I’m talking about wines with a regional identity, like this Cab from Margaret River. With cedar, bay leaf, black currant, and subtle oak, it’s guaranteed to charm. As delicious as it now, it has the stuffing and structure to keep going for another five years.

2001 Smith Woodhouse, Late Bottled Vintage (LBV) Port • Portugal • $38.99, BC Liquor Stores Rich, full, sweet and layered with plum, chocolate and violets, this LBV is a sheer hedonist’s delight.

Aged in cask for four years and a further five in bottle before release, it’s certainly ready to drink. As it’s bottled unfiltered (this is good!), I recommend decanting it to separate it from the sediment that has formed. Consider gifting a decanter alongside.

2008 Produttori del Barbaresco • Barbaresco DOCG, Italy •

$44.95, BC Liquor Stores One of the least expensive Barbarescos on our shelves, it’s also one of the best.

Produttori is a cooperative which is usually associated with cheaper, lower quality wine. Not this one!

Great growers with amazing vineyard sites pool their resources to craft affordable, top-notch wine. Dark forest berries, earth, minerals and heady rose petals burst from the glass. With firm but polished tannins, it could easily age ten years plus. Perfect for the serious collector. n/v Pierre Paillard, Grand Cru, Brut • Champagne AOC, France • $56.99, BC Liquor Stores Spoil the Champagne-lover on your list by introducing them to a small, top-quality producer. The Pierre Paillard tastes way more expensive than most of the famous big brands and it’s cheaper.

It’s made from some of Champagne’s best vineyards around the evocatively named village of ‘Bouzy’ (thus Grand Cru). Smells like a double-baked almond croissant and is just as tasty.

Dry with a creamy elegant mousse, intense lemon, red currant, pear and nuts. W –Michaela Morrris

Happy Holidays!

JOIN US FOR MOVIE MONDAYS

featuring Tim Burton classics.

Every Monday in December and January, starting at 8:30pm.

All day DRINK SPECIALS on Tuesdays and Thursdays.

Diner comfort food with a healthy original twist Serving breakfast everyday until 3pm. Fully licensed.

1087 Granville Street • 604.685.4612 Sun-Thu 9am – 11pm • Fri & Sat 9am-1am www.thetempleton.ca | info@thetempleton.ca

12 W December 11 – December 17, 2014

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EAT // DRINK

@WESTENDERVAN

DINING OUT

Chef Tony’s high-end dim sum delightfully different Anya Levykh Nosh

@FoodGirlFriday CHEF TONY SEAFOOD

101-4600 No. 3 Rd., Richmond 604-279-0083 ChefTonyCanada.com Open for dinner nightly, 5pm-10pm; dim sum weekdays 10:30am-3pm and weekends/holidays 10am-3pm.

It felt different the moment we walked in. Most dim sum restaurants in the city seem to favour the beige-themed blandness of an empty banquet hall. Here, the room was a fascinating cross between an upscale karaoke bar and a Korean barbecue joint that plays K-pop videos on large screens. No music videos here, thank God, but there is a massive TV screen that cycles photos of dishes from the menu. The walls are shiny white, there’s a sparkly purple light tube running from floor to ceiling, and the many large crystal chandeliers are prominently placed.

It’s not exactly what comes to mind when I think of finedining, but character it has a-plenty.

That slightly off-beat

Anya Levykh Fresh Sheet

@FoodGirlFriday

SCENE // HEARD

Chez Christophe Chocolaterie and Patisserie has won gold at the world finals of the International Chocolate Awards for its pineapple-avocado chocolate bonbon. Sounds strange? Yes. Tastes delicious? Hell yeah. Christophe-Chocolat.com

Adventurous eaters will be rewarded Chef Tony Seafood in Richmond. Specialties (from left to right0 include sea cucumber, roasted squab, and deep fried fish flakes and radish balls. Submitted photos concept carries over into the food. Chef Tony He, owner of this eponymous restaurant, has opened high-end Cantonese restaurants on both sides of the Pacific, including Sea Harbour in Richmond. And, while Chef Tony’s is open for dinner as well, it’s the dim sum you want to come for.

Classic dishes like har gow (shrimp dumplings) are wrapped in rice paper so fine, they are translucent, almost transparent. Fish is fresh and the meats are well-sourced. Prices are a

tad higher than your average dim sum, with most dishes running $4-$5.75, while specialty dishes hover around $6.95-$7.75.

It’s Chef Tony’s use of unconventional ingredients and pairings that sets the food here apart. Classic siu mai (pork-and-prawn dumplings) are infused with shavings of black truffle.

Meat “sticks” are covered in sliced almonds, and shrimp spring rolls are brightened with nori and pineapple.

Dishes that seem designed to appeal to Western tastes were

less successful, like the deepfried crab stick and dried scallop potato paste balls.

These were essentially potato croquettes with not enough seafood. The deep-fried radish cake could also use some work. Not enough crispness on the outside, and a gummy interior left me unimpressed.

If you’re willing to step a little outside your comfort zone, however, deliciousness awaits. Chicken feet in soy sauce are plump and juicy, aromatic and rich. Bitter gourd and chicken shreds wrapped in rice noodles are

excellent, as are the mixed mushroom pastry. The pastry itself is beautifully layered, the mushrooms are savoury, and the yin-yang design on top is just a pretty bonus. Do not miss the egg white custard tarts for a sweet finish.

The service also deserves some kudos. While some servers seem unfamiliar with certain dishes’ descriptions in English (here’s where a Cantonese-speaking friend could come in handy), they are prompt, polite, and attentive. Empty dishes are

cleared quickly, clean plates appear regularly, and there are even some smiles.

Be warned: The parking lot can be nightmarish, so early arrival is recommended. But, it’s worth a few minutes of aggravation to enjoy Chef Tony’s masterpieces. I’ll brave it. W

Other BC winners at the International Chocolate Awards included Beta 5 Chocolates (silver) for its rosemary caramel, carrot cake praline, and yuzu curd confection. Beta5Chocolates.com

Chomp Vegan Eatery, and more. TheVeganProject.com

passion-chocolate and chocolate-pecan-caramel. Both are available in six-inch ($36.95) and 12-inch ($64.95). Advance orders recommended.

GanacheYaletown.com

launched a weekend brunch menu on Saturdays and Sundays, 10:30am to 2pm.

The à la carte menu includes poached eggs with smoked pork belly and cheddar sabayon, beef dip, quiche with smoked steelhead, crepes with fresh fruit, and more.

the continuing Emperor’s Afternoon Tea. Shangri-La. com/Vancouver

Looking for vegan-friendly holiday gifts? The Vegan Project Holiday Pop-Up Shoppe is being held Dec. 12-14 at The Lodge on East Pender. Find food, drinks, and vegan wares from local vendors, including Hippie Foods, Zimt Chocolates, Krokodile Pear Juice, Community Yoga,

Event tickets and hotel bookings for the 13th annual Dine Out Vancouver Festival, Jan. 16 to Feb. 1. Events include collaborative dinners, whiskey suppers, and the ever-popular Street Food City.

Restaurant reservations will be released on Jan. 7, 2015.

DineOutVancouver.com

DRINK // DINE

Ganache Patisserie has introduced two new bûches de noël for the season; mango-

For those looking to avoid set menus for NewYear’s Eve, L’Abbatoir will be serving their full à la carte menu to revellers that evening, with reservations available between 5:30pm and 10:30pm (last seating at 10:15pm). Labbatoir.ca In other L’Abbatoir news… the restaurant has just

In celebration of ShangriLa Hotels and Resorts’ 30 years in China, Shangri-La Hotel Vancouver is celebrating with Flavours of the East, running now until Jan. 2, 2015. Lanterns and Eastern flavours will prevail, as will

Food: ★★★★★ Service: ★★★★★ Ambiance: ★★★★★ Value: ★★★★★ Overall: ★★★★★

Cibo Trattoria and Uva Wine & Cocktail Bar are hosting a turn-of-the-century New Year’s Eve. At Cibo, two dinner seatings are available; a three-course menu at 5pm for $69, and a five-course menu for $99 at 9pm, with optional wine pairings for both. Also starting at 9pm at Uva will be a Belle Epoque-inspired cocktail party. Tickets are $30 per person. CiboTrattoria.ca, UvaVancouver.ca W

MY BRIGHTEST DIAMOND THE VASELINES Legendary Noodle DECEMBER 7 - ELECTRIC OWL

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THE CHURCH ARIEL PINK ENTER

2013

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Holiday Parties www.TenTenTapas.com Westender.com

JANUARY 23 - RICKSHAW

1010 Beach Ave.

Along the Seawall Under the Burrard Bridge Across from Granville Island

TO WIN

...a pair of tickets to see The Vaselines at the Rickshaw on January 23. Presented by Timbre Concerts.

enter, go to FEBRUARY 11 - RICKSHAW FEB 21 - RIOToTHEATRE 1074 Denman St. 604-669-8551 westender.com and click on TICKETS & more info: WWW.timbreconcerts.com LegendaryNoodle.ca contests. @ timbreconcerts

Fresh noodles • Gluten free noodles available

Contest closes at 9am on Thursday, December 18.

December 11 – December 17, 2014 W 13

EAT // DRINK

WESTENDER.COM

BEER & WINE

Sweet treats for the Christmas season Michaela Morris By the Bottle @MichaelaWine

You know you’ll be cleansing in a few weeks, so seasonal indulgences should come with no guilt attached. For a limited time, you can have your cake and dessert wine too. Just make sure that whatever you pair with dessert is at least as sweet. If your wine only has a bit of sugar, it may end up tasting tart, bitter or thin next to the sweetest of treats. Who wants that?

Warmer climes tend to boast the fullest and most lusciously sweet dessert wines. Australia’s Muscats and Tokays from the region of Rutherglen are among the most sensationally sticky and beg for toffee pudding.

Equally sweet and concentrated, PX Sherry is made from sun-dried Pedro Ximénez grapes. This is just the right medicine for Christmas fruitcake. And surely, the most beloved and intense dessert wine is Port. If you needed another reason to devour chocolate, this is it.

Late harvest wines are lighter on their feet. Grapes are left on vine longer than regular harvest to concentrate the sugars. While they vary in sweetness, they’re usually slightly easier on the sugar and are particularly delicious with fruit based desserts. Late harvests shouldn’t

be confused with Icewine, our local specialty. Crafted from frozen grapes that are picked once temperatures fall well below freezing, Icewine is like drinking pure fruit syrup.

If sweet on sweet is just too much for you, don’t forgo dessert wine. Serve it with cheese instead. The salty versus sweet contrast is a spectacular taste sensation.

Are you ready for a sugar rush?

you dream of. Or try with blue cheese.

2012 Errazuriz, Late Harvest Sauvignon Blanc • Chile • $12.99, BC Liquor Stores A mouthful of candied citrus, dried peach, and honey balanced by vibrant acidity.

Pair with a dessert that has a bit of spine like tangy lemon tart.

2007 Chateau Dereszla, 5 Puttonyos • Tokaji Aszú, Hungary • $48.95 (500ml), BC Liquor Stores Lingering notes of orange marmalade, dried apricot, caramel, and coffee crisp.

I’d happily sip this alongside Christmas pudding or an apricot tart.

Alvear, Medium Dry • Montilla-Moriles DO, Spain • $17.99, BC Liquor Stores This sherry-style wine falls into the not-too-sweet category. Tempting toasted hazelnuts, dried orange and hints of fig. I keep a bottle handy in anticipation of that tin of home baked goodies (shortbread and gingersnaps please) for the ultimate afternoon snack. n/v Fonseca, Terra Prima Reserve Organic Port • Portugal • $27.49, BC Liquor Stores Exuberant black cherry, cassis, and licorice notes on a lush silky smooth palate.

It will absolutely stand up to whatever chocolate dessert

Gonzales Byass, Noé Pedro Ximénez, • Sherry DO, Spain • $39.99 (375ml), BC Liquor Stores Decadent and unctuous with intense flavours of sultanas, dates, prunes, and walnuts. A big gulp will help wash down Christmas cake but the ultimately way to enjoy this is poured over vanilla ice cream.

Seppelt, DP 59 Rare Tokay • Rutherglen, Australia • $65 (500ml), private wine stores only Rich and luscious with caramelized brown sugar and nuts, candied citrus zest, and coffee, it is definitely sweet enough it stand up to sticky toffee pudding.

2013 Tantalus, Riesling Icewine • Okanagan Valley, BC VQA • $70, winery direct Amazing concentration of pure peach, honeyed apples, and pear kept in check by Riesling’s brilliant acidity. It’s the essence of the Okanagan Valley and dessert in a glass. W

Blue Buck is the ‘Sgt. Pepper’s’ of BC beers Stephen Smysnuik The Growler @StephenSmys

I realize that comparing anything to a Beatles record is problematic, especially a beer. Beer is beer and Beatles music is, well, music. And I’m sure the headline above will arouse mutters of derision, since it suggests that Phillips Brewing is the Beatles of BC craft breweries.

Which, you know? I think there’s still a strong case to be made for that.

See, Phillips is one of the top-selling, if not the topselling, craft breweries in BC (sales figures are proprietary in Canada, so I’m relying on the anecdotal here). Their beers are wildly popular with mainstream beer drinkers, and there’s a level of devotion to their products – to Blue Buck especially – that not all breweries have. Like Beatles records, Phillips beer is for the most part approachable, inoffensive, and enjoyable in nearly any social situation – but there’s also creativity and playfulness in their approach to what they do.

Like the Beatles, Phillips is creating a strangely insular and inventive world as they create new products. I’m not talking about the beer, necessarily, but everything surrounding it – the label art, the marketing, the Wonka-esque brewery itself.

But I say that Blue Buck is the Sgt. Pepper’s of BC beers because, while it might not be

their best beer, it’s their most widely known. It cemented Phillips status as mainstream players with an experimental streak.

More importantly though, Blue Buck has helped win people over on the craft beer movement, to show that brewing is an art form in its own right – like the Beatles did with rock music and the LP in the ‘60s.

(Yes, I’m that I’ve entered realms of nerdism that many might be uncomfortable with. I’m also aware that my comparisons here are flimsy.

I’ll admit that. Poke holes all you like. Do it on Twitter. @ stephensmys.)

Full disclosure: Blue Buck is my favourite beer, period. It’s rare that I drink it these days, but it introduced me to the world of craft beer and I have a strong affection for it. Like my favourite albums of my youth – OK Computer, Nevermind, and yes, Sgt. Pepper’s (though I’m partial to Revolver) – there’s a flood of nostalgia. If anything, Blue Buck introduced to the notion that beer could inspire nostalgia – or anything, for that matter, other than wretched gagging noises when forced to choke down pale, fizzy lager. “[Blue Buck]’s not an inyour-face double IPA,” says Matt Lockhart, Phillips’ communications manager, after I asked him to explain Blue Buck’s popularity. “The flavour of it lends itself to a broad audience. It’s an easy beer to share with people.”

“It’s been pretty widespread accepted, at least out here, and at the same time it has a

120 years of coffee Tradition!

Take time to enjoy your holiday this year...

Reserve a table today for our Christmas Day Brunch Buffet or New Year’s Eve Dinner and Party with Brickhouse

Christmas Brunch Buffet

NYE Dinner and Party

December 25 10:00am & 1:30pm seating times available $69.95 Adults* $29.95 Kids 6-12* (kids under 5 eat free)

December 31 $139.95 includes a 4 course dinner and a party in the restaurant with Brickhouse. Or join the party at 9:30pm with Brickhouse for $34.95. 19+ event.

*Space is limited – reservations are required. Note to our guests: Food and beverage prices are subject to tax and a 18% service charge will be applied to all Christmas Day and New Year’s Eve bookings.

Visit our website to check out the menu or make a reservation www.docksidevancouver.com In the Granville Island Hotel, 1253 Johnston St, Granville Island 604-685-7070

14 W December 11 – December 17, 2014

Get a

really devoted fan base, a really devoted support system to it, and a strong identity to it.”

Bring Blue Buck to party and I wager you’ll find nary a dissenter in the group…unless you’re attending a party of beer nerds.

Because here’s the thing: Many “serious” beer enthusiasts that I’ve met – the ones scoffing at the headline, no doubt – hold Blue Buck in relatively low regard. I’m not sure why, but there are throngs of craft beer lovers who, if put massed together and asked to share their thoughts on Blue Buck, would collectively shrug and make farting noise with their tongues.

Well, I make my own farting noise (and not with my tongue) because Blue Buck has been unfairly maligned, especially among tastemakers in this province. BC’s known for its IPAs and Central City’s and Driftwood’s in particular are regarded as the quintessential BC beers.

But it’s not an easy jump from Kokanee to Fat Tug. The people discovering craft beer need a gateway beer, something that can help introduce all that craft beer has to offer. There are several options, but I’d wager that more people drink Blue Buck, or have been turned on to craft beer by Blue Buck, than any other beer brewed in this province.

Of course, I have absolutely no data to back this up, so we’ll just leave it at that.

Any comments? W

Fairly Traded Locally roasted Sustainable

FREE* bag of Mogiana Coffee!!

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*To get your free bag of Mogiana Coffee, simply cut out the label and UPC Code from your purchased bag (any roast), and mail to: #5-11711 No 5 Rd . Richmond, BC, V7A 4E8 including your return address.

This promotion is valid until January 31, 2015.

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EAT // DRINK

DINING OUT

C is for chestnuts!

Mijune Pak Follow Me Foodie

@FollowMeFoodie “Chestnuts roasting on an open fire…”

It’s that time of the year and I’m so excited! As intoxicating as the smell of fried onions from hot dog stands is, so is the smell of chestnuts being roasted on the streets of Downtown Vancouver.

It’s one of my favourite fall/winter ingredients, and it’s just as good served sweet or savoury. However, growing up with Asian cuisine, it was a year-round ingredient.

They come pre-peeled and packaged at T&T Supermarket, or even frozen. While it might not be the same as fresh, it does the job fine.

I’m still a bit traumatized thinking back to the day when I first tried roasting them at home. Shame on me for not doing research first, but I never slit the shell to let the steam escape and they ended up exploding all over me. It hurt – a lot. If you try it as home, please remember to look up instructions and follow them carefully.

If you don’t have the time or want to deal with the hassle or roasting and peeling your own, then chefs around the city have done it for you. Some of them are resorting to canned chestnut puree, which isn’t necessarily bad since it depends on

Join with us in celebrating our

50

th

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The chestnut cheesecake at Blue Water Café is a seasonal must-try. the application. As long as it’s a quality product, fresh or preserved isn’t really fair to compare since both have different qualities that work well with different dishes.

Here are 10 chestnut items available during the holidays: Mont Blanc bûche de noël Pureed sweetened chestnuts, chestnut mousse, and vanilla Chantilly with meringue on a sweet pastry base topped with candied chestnuts at Chez Christophe.

Christophe-Chocolat.com Hazelnut chestnut bûche de noël Classic hazelnut cake, candied chestnut ganache, dark chocolate mousse, crispy hazelnut waf ers at Thomas Haas.

ThomasHaas.com Chestnut spice cake With cream cheese mousse, pear sorbet, roasted pear, and poached quince at L’Abattoir. Labattoir.ca Mont Blanc chestnut cheese cake With poached okanagan quince, vanilla ice cream at Blue Water Café.

BlueWaterCafe.net

WN O T E YAL

Chestnut gnocchi With charred brussels sprouts, stessa, apple at Campagnolo.

CampagnoloRestaurant.ca

FRIDAY DEC. 12 | 5PM - 9PM

Chestnut cake Vanilla Sponge Cake and chestnut filling, 36 per cent real whipping cream at Saint Germain Bakery.

SaintGermainBakery.com

ONE NIGHT ONLY

Wild mushroom and chestnut soup Winter favourite with crostini at Cin Cin Ristorante + Bar. CinCin.net House-made morcilla Ciderbraised red cabbage, apples, chestnuts, fried quail’s eggs at Espana.

EspanaRestaurant.ca Porcini and chestnut soup With low-fat vanilla Chantilly at Cioppino’s.

Cioppinos.wordpress.com Chestnut tart Short crust, frangipane, chestnut purée, candied pecans at Thierry.

ThierryChocolates.com Find out more about Mijune at FollowMeFoodie.com or follow her on Twitter and Instagram @followmefoodie. W

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www.yaletowninfo.com December 11 – December 17, 2014 W 15

ARTS // CULTURE

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WHAT’S ON Th/11

Fr/12

Sa/13

Su/14

Mo/15

MUSIC

MUSIC

MUSIC

MUSIC

MUSIC

DOWN New Orleans heavy metal supergroup tour in support of their latest EP Down IV, Pt. II with guests Orange Goblin, Bl’ast, and King Parrot. 8:30pm at Commodore Ballroom. Tickets $36.00 at Scrape Records, LiveNation.com or Ticketmaster.ca

GEOFF BERNER & RAE SPOON Experimental folksters and cult heroes appear as part of their crossCanada tour. 7pm at Fox Cabaret.

Tickets $13 at EventBrite.ca

MOTHER MOTHER Vancouver based modern pop band take the stage in support of their latest release Very Good Bad Thing with guests USS. 7:30pm at Orpheum.

SOLD OUT.

ALL IS BRIGHT A magical night of songs, stories and fundraising with some of Vancouver’s favourite songwriters included Nat Jay, David Beckingham, Adrian Glynn, and Sarah Wheeler.

All proceeds benefit the food bank. 8pm at Media Club. Tickets $10 at the door.

BANDS ON THE RUN Canadian country bands Doc Walker, the Road Hammers, and BlackJack Billy bring their tour to Vancouver.

8pm at Commodore Ballroom.

Tickets $39.50 at Ticketmaster.ca

A TRADITIONAL CHRISTMAS A holiday music tradition featuring host Christopher Gaze, the UBC Ensemble, EnChor, and the VSO. 7:30pm at St. Andrew’s Wesley United Church. Tickets at VancouverSymphony.ca DREAM POLICE One half of Brooklyn punks The Men bring their new project on tour. 8pm at Fox Cabaret. Tickets $10 at FoxCabaret.com

COMEDY ADAM FERRARA Stand-up comedian and actor known for his role on Rescue Me and in Paul Blart: Mall Cop, and Definitely Maybe. 8:30pm at The Comedy Mix. Tickets $20 at TheComedyMix.com

THEATRE/DANCE BAH! HUMBUG! Juno awardwinning musician Jim Byrnes is Ebeneezer Scrooge in this festive Woodward’s tradition; a reconceived tale where Scrooge owns a pawn shop on Hastings St. 7:30pm at SFU Woodward’s.

Tickets at EventBrite.ca

MR. CARMACK AND WICVH Co-headlining show featuring Hawaii-based producer (aka Aaron Carmack) and WICVH, DJ and dance music producer. 10pm at Fortune Sound Club. Tickets $16 at TicketWeb.ca

COMEDY CHRIS JAMES & JANE STANTON Co-headlining show; James, a feature on the CBC and Stanton, winner of Vancouver’s funniest new female comic in 2006. 7 and 9:30pm at Yuk Yuk’s. Tickets $20 at YukYuks.com ADAM FERRARA Stand up comedian and actor known for his role on Rescue Me and in Paul Blart: Mall Cop and Definitely Maybe. 8:30pm at The Comedy Mix. Tickets $20 at TheComedyMix.com

THEATRE/DANCE

COMEDY CHRIS JAMES & JANE STANTON Co-headlining show; James, a feature on the CBC and Stanton, winner of Vancouver’s funniest new female comic in 2006. 7 and 9:30pm at Yuk Yuk’s. Tickets $20 at YukYuks.com

NIGHTMARE BEFORE THE NUTCRACKER This gothic twist on the holiday classic will be told through the music of Tchaikovsky and Danny Elfman, featuring characters from both the Nutcracker Suite and your favourite Tim Burton films. 7pm at Rio Theatre. Tickets $25 at RioTheatreTickets.ca or $30 at the door.

CHELSEA HOTEL: THE SONGS OF LEONARD COHEN Cohen’s powerful and inspirational music is the heartbeat of this cabaret-style production with extraordinary new arrangements in a tribute to the iconic legend.

8pm at Firehall Arts Centre.

Tickets at FirehallArtsCentre.com

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DEC 18

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FAST FOLK UNDERGROUND Annual holiday version promises another great evening of modern music including the Vancouver launch of punk folk rocker Eugene Ripper’s new recording Hangman.

9pm at The Emerald. Tickets $10 at the door.

ADAM FERRARA Stand up comedian and actor known for his role on Rescue Me and in Paul Blart: Mall Cop and Definitely Maybe. 8:30pm at The Comedy Mix. Tickets $20 at TheComedyMix.com

12 DAYS OF DIFFERENT DEALS!

DEC 19

A SUMNER BROTHERS CHRISTMAS Local blues-rock duo host their annual Christmas Extravaganza featuring a solid roster of local talent. 9pm at Rickshaw Theatre. Tickets $12 at Tickets.NorthernTickets.com

NUTCRACKER Follow the fearless heroine Clara, as her Christmas dream becomes our magical reality in this dream ballet beautifully brought to life by the Royal Winnipeg Ballet. 8:20pm at Queen Elizabeth Theatre. Tickets at Ticketmaster.ca. Runs until Dec. 14.

12 DEALS OF THE HOLIDAYS!

DEC 8-19

WEST COAST SYMPHONY CHRISTMAS CONCERT WCS presents a special holiday concert featuring waltz and dance music from across Europe and capped off with some of the season’s traditional favourites. 8pm at Shaughnessy Heights United Church. Admission by donation.

Smoke Shop Light it up

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16 W December 11 – December 17, 2014

THEATRE/DANCE

KASTLE AND AMTRAC Co-headlining show featuring the American dance producers. 8pm at Electric Owl. Tickets $15 at Red Cat, Zulu, Highlife, Beatstreet or TicketWeb.ca

Mother Mother, Dec. 13 WIDE AWAKE HEARTS Reality and fiction blur in heartbreaking and hilarious ways as four friends stumble through the nightmarish landscape of love and fidelity while trying to make a film. 8pm at Little Mountain Gallery. Tickets at BrownPaperTickets.com

EVENTS 1ST ANNUAL UGLY CHRISTMAS SWEATER DASH Get knitted up with friends and family to wind your way along the 5km seawall dash to benefit the Children’s Wish Foundation of Canada.

11am at Olympic Village Square.

Tickets $45 at NowThatsUgly. com AN IRISH CHRISTMAS The musical event that brings together the local Irish community in a seasonal celebration of music, dance and craic, the Irish spirit of togetherness and goodwill.

Proceeds benefit the Irish Benevolent Fund and local food banks. 7:30pm at St. James Hall.

Tickets $20 at EventBrite.ca

CHEAP & FUN SHINY FUZZY MUDDY The antidote to large-scale craft fairs, this non-profit collective invites you to peruse quality craftsmanship with a decided lack of holiday music and kitschy decorations. 11am-7pm at Heritage Hall. Admission $2.

Runs until Dec. 14.

PHANTOGRAM New York electronic rock duo appear in support of Voices with special guests Mounties and Dear Rouge.

7pm at Vogue Theatre. Tickets Tickets.NorthernTickets.com

THEATRE/DANCE JAMES AND THE GIANT PEACH A heartwarming musical adaptation of Roald Dahl’s classic tale of the young James who discovers a magical giant peach inhabited by fantastical creatures. 2pm at Waterfront Theatre. Tickets at Tickets.

CarouselTheatre.ca. Runs until Jan. 4.

MARY POPPINS Practically perfect in every way, the tale of everyone’s favourite magical nanny will sweep you off your feet. 1pm at Stanley Industrial Alliance Stage. Tickets at ArtsClub. com. Runs until Jan. 4.

CHEAP & FUN ACTING FOR THE SUPERNATURALLY SHY Actorium hosts this information session on acting classes for the supernaturally shy – why we offer them and how you benefit. 11am at Actorium (2910 Commercial Drive). Free admission.

CELEBRATING SOLSTICE Join the Stanley Park Ecology Society and explore the history and customs of mid-winter festivals on this two hour walk. 1:30-3:30pm at Lost Lagoon Nature House. Call 604718-6522 to register.

PARADOX VICTORIA rock trio play their danceable tunes with special guests Koszmar, Konform, and Despair. 9pm at The Astoria.

HIP HOP KARAOKE TURNS 5 Andy Milonakis co-hosts with Flipout and DJ Seko doing a very rare video DJ set. 9pm at Fortune Sound Club. Tickets at Zulu, Red Cat or ElectroStub.com

COMEDY THE LAUGH GALLERY WITH GRAHAM CLARK Legendary weekly stand-up show of East Vancouver’s biggest and brightest comics. 9pm at Havana Theatre.

Tickets $5 at Eventbrite.ca

THEATRE/DANCE JINGLE A classic Christmas concert delivered in crooner style with Tony Barton and friends, includes a three-course dinner, performance and dancing.

7pm at Federico’s Supper Club.

Tickets and reservations at FedericosCupperClub.com

ART PIGA PICHA! Originally conceived and presented in Nairobi in 2009, this North American premiere of the exhibition features a photographic portrayal of societal transformation in Kenya from the 1910’s to the present. 10am-5pm at the Museum of Anthropology.

Runs until April 4.

CHEAP & FUN VANCOUVER CHRISTMAS MARKET Kick off the holiday season with Vancouver’s annual festive market with delicious treats, kids activities and live music. 11am-9pm at Queen Elizabeth Plaza. Runs until Dec. 24.

Vancouver Christmas Market, runs until Dec. 24

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FARCE VOLTA Full costume, full attitude Mars Volta tribute band appear with guests Double Standards and Affirmative Affirmative Affirmative (Yeah Yeah Yeahs tribute). 8pm at Biltmore Cabaret. Tickets $7 at the door.

BEAT CONNECTION Seattle based dance-rock band appear with guests Deep Sea Diver. 8pm at Electric Owl. Tickets $13 at Red Cat, Zulu, Beatstreet and TicketWeb.ca

THE BAD BEATS Garage rock band from Vancouver appear with guests The Beladeans. 9pm at LanaLou’s. Tickets at the door only.

HORNBY

STEVE HACKETT Legendary guitarist of Genesis and an outstanding solo career brings the Genesis Extended World Tour performing a whole set from the seminal prog band’s catalogue. 7pm at Vogue Theatre. Tickets at NorthernTickets.com

HANDEL’S MESSIAH Jon Washburn conducts the Vancouver Chamber Choir, Pacifica Singers and Vancouver Chamber Orchestra in this fastmoving version of The Christmas Masterpiece. 8pm at Orpheum.

Tickets at Ticketmaster.ca

925 DAVIE STREET • 604-899-4120 WWW.KANDUCANNAMEDS.COM KANDU-CANNAMEDS

@KANDUCANNAMEDS

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ARTS // CULTURE

WHAT’S ON Tu/16

We/17

Th/18

MUSIC

MUSIC

MUSIC

RALPH SHAW’S ROGUELELE NIGHT King of the ukulele, Ralph Shaw leads the oldest club on the American continent for everyone from a novice to a seasoned strummer. 7:30pm at St. James Hall. Tickets $8 at the door.

DANIELLE MARIE An eclectic evening of country, folk, indie and soul music with the Edmonton singer-songwriter and special guests Khari McClelland and Brad Darrid. 8:30pm at Electric Owl. Tickets $12 at TicketFly.com

THE LOWER 48 Portland’s “slice of perfect pop” bring their energetic ‘60s psychedelic garage rock to the stage with guests Catlow and Combine the Victorious. 8pm at The Hindenburg.

JOYCE MANOR Pop-punk band from Long Beach, CA, tours in support of latest release Never Hungover Again with guests Toys That Kill. 8pm at Korean Hall.

Tickets $13 at Red Cat, Zulu and TicketWeb.ca SKINNY PUPPY Canadian industrial group appears in support of Weapon with guests VNV Nation, Haujobb, and Youth Code. 7:30pm at Commodore Ballroom (moved from QE Theatre). Tickets $32.50 at LiveNation.com.

COMEDY YO! VANCITY LAUGHS Vancouver’s premier hiphop standup comedy show is back, hosted by Game Genies. 8pm at Yuk Yuk’s. Tickets $10 at the door.

THEATRE/DANCE THE GLASS MENAGERIE This fresh and poignant take on the Tennessee Williams’ classic, directed by Shawn MacDonald, brings together established and emerging artists to put a sharp, contemporary spin on Williams’ beloved memory. 8pm at Jericho Arts Centre. Tickets at fs7. formsite.com. Runs until Dec. 21.

CINDERELLA: AN EAST VAN PANTO A ‘way beyond Disney’ retelling of sweet little Cinderella from the trio of Charles Demers, Veda Hille, and Amiel Gladstone.

7pm at York Theatre. Tickets at Tickets.TheCultch.com

EVENTS GRAZE FOR THE GARDEN Dine at Graze Restaurant tonight and 20% of all dinner sales will benefit The World in A Garden, a non-profit urban farm project educating community and youth about the nutritional, cultural and environmental aspects of growing and eating food.

Reservations at 604-620-8822.

WONDERFUL WORLD OF DISNEY An evening with your favourite Vancouver musicians playing your favourite Disney classics. 8pm at Biltmore Cabaret. Tickets $8 advance at TicketWeb.ca or $10 at the door.

THEATRE/DANCE CHRISTMAS QUEEN The Vancouver Theatre Sports League presents an improvised story about a villain who is out to ruin Christmas for the townsfolk.

7:30pm at The Improv Centre.

Tickets at Tickets.vtsl.com. Runs until Dec. 21.

DYLAN THOMAS: RETURN JOURNEY Hailed as a “lyrical tour-de-force”, Bob Kingdom gives an electrifying performance as Dylan Thomas en route to the White Horse Tavern. 8pm at Vancouver East Cultural Centre.

Tickets at Tickets.TheCultch.com.

Runs until Dec. 21.

ART OLD A group show of figurative paintings, drawings and illustrations inspired by aging, old age, and history. 12-5pm at Hot Art Wet City. Runs until Dec. 20.

CHEAP & FUN FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS Van Dusen Gardens transforms into a winter wonderland with over a million twinkling lights on display. Tickets at TicketsTonight.TicketForce. com. Nightly until Jan. 4.

VOGUE CHRISTMAS MOVIE SERIES Catch a showing of The Polar Express to help collect for the Greater Vancouver Food Bank Society with drinks, snacks and film trivia. All ages welcome.

Admission by donation of a nonperishable food item. 6:30pm at Vogue Theatre.

pm4:30 pm 8:00 Ladyhawk, Dec. 18 LADYHAWK The Biltmore turns seven with the local indie rockers and guests Needles//Pins. 8pm at Biltmore Cabaret. Tickets $16 at Red Cat, Zulu or TicketWeb.ca RIPPLE ILLUSION KICK OFF PARTY East Van’s Mike Turner, of Damn Fools presents his new outfit of funk, rock, folk and motown in a unique retro style with guests Laura Reznek and EHM Sky Patrol. 8pm at Media Club. Tickets $10 at Tickets.

NorthernTickets.com or $13 at the door.

Check out full descriptions and details at rogueswest.ca under CLASSES/SCHEDULE Gift certificates available 400-1026 Davie Street www.rogueswest.ca 604.699.1744 Rogues West @RoguesWest Westender.com

The Lumi`ere Festival Vancouver Societyy and a the Yaletown and West End BIA’s invite you to a free, fun and festive event guaranteed to get you in the holiday spirit!

• Free Festive trolley tours • live entertainment and street activations • toy and Food bank drives • Free ice skating

• pop-up gallery • comox jam light parade • santa and mrs. (drag) claus • amazing selection oF restaurants and shops

westendbia.com | yaletowninfo.com | @lumiereFestvan | #lumierevan Presenting neighbourhoods

COMEDY BEN MCGINNIS & KEVIN BANNER Vancouver’s “funniest comic with a day job” coheadlines with the “big and brazen” Banner. 8:30pm at The Comedy Mix. Tickets $20 at TheComedyMix.com

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THEATRE/DANCE AVENUE Q Part felt, part flesh.

Watch what happens when a recent college graduate arrives in the Big Apple looking for love, work and a purpose in life. 8pm at Granville Island Stage. Tickets at ArtsClub.com. Runs until Jan. 3.

CHEAP & FUN VOGUE CHRISTMAS MOVIE SERIES Catch a showing of Elf to help collect for the Greater Vancouver Food Bank Society with drinks, snacks and film trivia. All ages welcome.

Admission by donation of a nonperishable food item. 6:30pm at Vogue Theatre.

ACTORS STUDIO

January 2015 acting classes are registering now!

Linking Communities with Light

November 22 to December 24 Open daily 11am–9pm*. (*Closes at 6pm on Dec 24)

Bring in 2015 with a laugh!

Yuk Yuk’s Special NYE SHOW Get your tix now before it’s too late!

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December 11 – December 17, 2014 W 17

ARTS // CULTURE

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Kingfisher Bluez documents warm sounds from Great White North and beyond LOUISE BURNS music@westender.com

Tim Clapp has just sold his Fall Out Boy record on eBay for $150. Clapp is the owner, founder, and all around nice guy behind one of Vancouver’s most prominent independent record labels, so it comes as no surprise that he knows the value of early 2000s emo. When I meet him at Neptoon Records where he works, I can almost feel his excitement.

“It’s out of print now!” he says with a knowing smile.

Kingfisher Bluez is home to some of the finest indie acts from Vancouver and beyond. Apollo Ghosts, Needles//Pins, Dirty Beaches, Mesa Luna, B-Lines, and more have all called Kingfisher Bluez home, as well as an arsenal of nonCanadian acts like Xiu Xiu and Allison Crutchfield.

Ranging from weird pop to folk to punk, they are all united by a single quality: Warmth.

“If the music is really good, and it’s warm, then people are gonna come back to it,” says Clapp. “The music that affects people is the same reason that Fall Out Boy records are $150 now. It’s because people were internally changed by that when they were 18.

You spend the rest of your life trying to recreate that feeling.”

After speaking with Clapp for more than 10 minutes you get the feeling that this guy is the real deal; more music fan than business man, and far removed from the grant-dependent indies that speckle our country like tattoos on Pete Wentz’ arms.

So what are the origins of this noble label?

“I used to do a radio show in Nanaimo on CHLY, and I would play bands I’d later see go on to be successful. I was thinking, man, I’ve gotten

Kingfisher Bluez kingpin Tim Clapp, aka Tim The Mute. Kevin Schmit photo pretty good at picking what bands to play the demos of or whatever.” says Clapp, who started Kingfisher Bluez as an mp3 blog in 2008. “I thought maybe I’ll just make a website to post my music and my friends’ music. After a few people started [visiting] it, I thought geez, maybe I should just start a record label! I put my first release on my credit card, sold all the copies in a few weeks and made a second press of it. I’ve been paying off the same $1,800 dollars since I started.”

That’s right. It only costs $1,800 to start your own label.

REVIEWS // ALLISON CRUTCHFIELD

Lean In To It (Kingfisher Bluez) “My generation is not stoic or serene, I’m gonna make a lot of money and quit this crazy scene,” sings Allison Crutchfield on “You”, a nod to Joni Mitchell’s “River”. This confessional, raw lyricism is typical of Lean In To It, a seven-track lo-fi poppunk EP filled with drum

machines, synthesizers, and the same conversational honesty that you’d expect from a singer-songwriter who references Mitchell in a track. Recorded in her parents’ Birmingham base-

18 W December 11 – December 17, 2014

“I’m in the business of making DIY vinyl record releases, I make 300 records, I sell them, that’s it.

Right now, its very comfortable to not be in the pocket of the government.

I’m not totally above selling myself out yet, but I don’t need it right now.”

Spoken like a true man of the underground, the same man whose invoices all state, “No Grants, No Hits since 2008”. This kind of punk ethos is what makes Kingfisher Bluez feel like a sanctuary to artists who just want to make music without the corporate handcuffs that come with spending other people’s money unwisely or

excessively. “I’m just a guy with a credit card. I’m basically saying take $1,000 of my money to make a single and I’ll do my best to claw back that $1,000 over the next two years.” says Clapp of his business plan. “I’m not going out to dive into a Scrooge McDuck vault of money afterwards. I don’t really do any publishing, I don’t do syncs, I don’t do anything like that. Someone sends me two songs, I make the record, I give them 20 per cent of the records for free, they sell theirs, I sell mine, there’s no money ever exchanged, you know?”

This year, Kingfisher Bluez gave us Philadelphia-

ment and her bedroom in Philadelphia, it has all of the makings of an bedroom rock classic, particularly the songs featuring Sam CookParrott as her duet partner.

It’s a fine balance of confessional ballad and scrappy indie rock, all united by Crutchfield’s Gen-Y sentiment. – Louise Burns

ing. Once considered the underdog of both the commercial and indie world, the black-licorice-haired pop star shattered through the mainstream by writing Icona Pop’s 2012 hit, “I Love It”, and the hook on this year’s bona fide Iggy Azalea smash “Fancy”.

In other words, this girl knows how to write a hit.

Naturally, her sophomore album is full of all the saccharine and sass you’d imagine a 22-year-old with the music industry in the palm of her hand to have.

Rating: ★★★★★

CHARLI XCX

Sucker (IAMSOUND) Charli XCX’s star is ris-

based Allison Crutchfield of the band Swearin’s debut solo LP, Vancouver’s Dada Plan, Colin Cowan, and singles by White Poppy, Dirty Beaches, and Clapp himself, who goes under the moniker Tim The Mute, to name a few. Next year we’ll be seeing the likes of dusky songstress Jody Glenham, London UK’s The Tuts, a collaboration between Holy Hum and Alex Zhang Hungtai (formerly known as Dirty Beaches) and a “singles club” in collaboration with 12 of Clapp’s favorite labels, including Champagne, Illinois’ Polyvinyl, and the infamous Flying Nun from New Zealand.

The production, provided by the likes of uber-trendy Scandinavian producersdu-jour Stargate and Patrik Berger, as well as Weezer’s Rivers Cuomo and Vampire Weekend’s Rostam Batman-

Not too shabby for a label whose website slogan reads, “Where My Money Goes To Die”.

This year will mark Kingfisher Bluez’ seventh annual Christmas party, a guaranteed gong show at the Hindenburg, showing off past and present alumni including The Courtneys, Shawn Mrazek Lives!, Dead Soft, and many more.

“The Christmas party is always so much fun. The first year I did it was in my friend’s living room.

Last year we sold out the Cobalt, and for the last three years I’ve been doing a free single.” says Clapp.

This year’s single “Santa Knows (I’ve Been Bad)” is

by Vancouver’s Kim Gray.

All of the money raised will go to 1-800-SUICIDE and Crisis Centre BC. “Last year we raised over $1,000 for charity,” says Clapp.

No subsidies, no hits, and no grants. It may not get him a Fall Out Boy collaboration, but it will get him a reputation of gold. And in a scene where word of mouth has more weight than a grant deadline, well, you can’t sell that on eBay. “I’m in this business because I love bands and I love music,” he says. “It’s very important to me to make good records that are timeless. I like to make warm-feeling records. It’s for people like me.” W Kingfisher Bluez Xmas 7 will be at The Hindenburg on Dec. 19.

Featuring The Courtneys, Dead Soft, Poor Form, Shawn Mrazek Lives!, Mesa Luna, Village, Skinny Kids, Knife Pleats, and Tim The Mute. Free seven-inch single with $12 admission. Doors at 7. All proceeds to benefit 1-800-SUICIDE and Crisis Centre BC.

glijs, is impressive.

There are moments of classic ear-candy brilliance, like onomatopoeic breakout single “Boom Clap”, and the bass-heavy teen angst anthem “Break The Rules”. Others like “London” and “Famous” are more high octane sasspop and overproduced.

This is a pop record, lest we forget, but when production overshadows the songwriting, the music becomes dated. And that is Sucker’s biggest flaw. – Louise Burns Rating: ★★★★★

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ART

Bobbie Burgers: Into abstraction Artist Bobbie Burgers presents her riskiest exhibition yet KELSEY KLASSEN kelsey@westender.com

It’s a clear, wintry morning in West Vancouver. Seemingly endless blue skies have breathed frost into the underskirts and footwells of hedges while the road glistens with crystals that have yet to realize it’s noon.

It’s days like these that leave one peering at the tips of trees and through fingers of grass for signs of spring. And, as the natural world falls dormant, a step inside the home of Bobbie Burgers keeps that promise alive.

Burgers, one of Canada’s most popular contemporary artists, has mastered the floral.

From still life, she pulls flowers through the sieve of time and leaves them deconstructed – raw colour and emotion on canvas. And whether you’re drawn to the suggestion of blooms that have yet to unfurl, or see beauty in petals that have just started to drop, depends, much like the artist, on what stage of life you’re in.

••• The oversized front door pivots open and Burgers – six feet of Dutch androgyny, capped by tousled blonde hair reminiscent of the peonies and parrot tulips she paints – steps out into the sunlight.

“I was just making us some cookies,” she announces with a smile, gliding quickly back inside and over to the oven.

The house, designed by her brother Cedric, is gallery-like and magazine-featured. Step-

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ping over the burbling pond, past the sweeping seaward views and into the entrance, your sight line collides with vast expanses of wall, claimed floor-to-ceiling by Bobbie’s work.

There’s no sense of chaos in this family home, or even that a studio exists nearby – just clean lines, acrylic flora, and Burgers in her ubiquitous stripes.

Within minutes, the gooey cranberry-chocolate cookies are paired with tea, and she sets them down on the long dining room table next to one of her newest pieces.

Contained for so long to just canvas, Burgers is on the cusp of a new stage in her career, and will be debuting her first forays into sculpture this week at Bau-Xi Gallery on South Granville.

As she talks, her hand flits over occasionally to touch this one – a hefty, gravity-defying assemblage of roughly hewn bronze roses – as if to remind herself that it’s real.

••• Born in 1973 the daughter of Dutch immigrants, Burgers’ mother was an interior designer and father a renowned architect. She recalls her ‘70s upbringing, where road trips were wiled away painting in the back seat of their car and television had yet to become a societal distraction, as idyllic for her pursuits.

After graduating high school, Burgers went to France for a year of study before returning home to take art history at the University of Victoria and attend summer sessions at Emily Carr.

By her mid-20s, Burgers’ style – informed by the Dutch masters with an intriguing

Top: Bobbie Burgers at work in her West Vancouver studio.

Bottom: Burgers’ latest exhibition features a bold yet restrained palette of colours. Kyrani Kanavaros/Klik photos tension between fear and discovery – had garnered the attention of local curators. In 1999, her first solo show at Diane Farris Gallery sold out.

The next year, Burgers moved to Bau-Xi – the oldest contemporary art gallery in Vancouver – marking the period from which she would go on to prolifically have four to five solo shows a year around the world – each one a sell-out – ever since.

For 20 years, she’s transformed the cliché of flowers into forceful statements on age, femininity, impermanence, and the passing of time.

If her energy seems nervous today though, it’s for good reason. This new show will be her riskiest yet.

Not content to paint cabbage roses to international acclaim for another two decades, Burgers has quietly been adding mixed-media relief works and free-standing sculpture to her formal practice. With just seven days until the show, yesterday was spent hashing out final details at the bronze foundry.

“There’s so much to learn,”

she says. “[But] it’s just been ruminating for so long I thought, ‘Let’s just push it through’...You have to jump off at some point,” she laughs.

At 41, this type of risk taking could be seen as inspirational; but, in fact, it was inspired.

Through time spent with her four young daughters as they explored their artistic sides at local pottery studios, Emily Carr classes, and the Vancouver Art Gallery, Burgers says she was reminded of the fearlessness of childhood, leading to her Dec. 11 show, “The Lure of Magical Thinking” – a theory encapsulating the banishment of youthful imagination in favour the realism and rationality of adulthood, and the importance of inviting it to return.

This letting go of control, this new way of thinking, can be seen in all aspects of her work, from the fact a third party – her husband – was integral in helping her assemble her finished sculptures, to the fact that her paintings have taken on an exciting abstract quality.

“I was just in this long

period of teaching myself my skills,” she says. “And then, about five years ago, it was just, like, ‘That’s it. I can’t paint like this anymore’, and all the paintings started to blow apart.

This door opened and I had all the tools to now express myself almost immediately in any way I wanted to; I just needed to decide what I wanted to do with it.

“It feels like it’s on this massive trajectory right now,” she continues, “where there’s just infinite possibilities. Compared to five years ago where I was like, ‘Ugh, if I have to paint one more close-up tulip...’ I mean, I loved that period, just at a certain point I thought, ‘I can’t do it anymore.’”

••• Her latest works retain that luminescent energy and groundbreaking, undeniable scale that defines her on the contemporary landscape, but they’re rougher, more immediate, more demanding of their viewers. They’re more monochromatic and less precious, while simultaneously more complex in their creation. They also show more restraint: What would have taken Burgers 30 brush strokes to accomplish 10 years ago, now only takes her one.

“I notice the ability to do one stroke that says a lot,” she confirms. “I used to paint with brushes that were the size of my pinky,” she says, holding up her finger in mock dismay. “A big one for me would be the size of my thumb. And now I paint with brushes that are up to four inches.”

As result, elaborately seeded swirls of paint now rise above the canvas impasto, while drips are left to run down the canvas untouched.

“With painting, there are consequences for everything that you do. Suddenly you lose focus for a second and there’s not an erase button.

And there’s mess. There’s things that happen; things that go on the floor,” she says passionately. “I’m trying to keep more and more of those honest things in there. There’s drips; yeah, I could totally paint those out. But I love those. That’s, like, a super frozen moment.

“Not that you want it to look haphazard,” she adds, “but to leave the little breadcrumbs along of, like, there was a human here and they were pouring their heart out onto this canvas. That was actually my hand that went across in that arc,” she says, sweeping out from her shoulder. “That’s the really beautiful thing about painting.”

And though this process, Burgers says she realized it’s okay for florals to be her jumping off point into abstraction.

“I don’t think a lot of people that first bought my work would have ever looked at the work I will eventually do,” she concludes with a smile, her teeth flashing like billboards of contentment. “It’s no longer about the florals; it’s just about the energy. So yeah, I think I attracted a certain audience, and I might lose a certain audience, but some people are coming along for the ride.” W

THE LURE OF MAGICAL THINKING

Bobbie Burgers: “The Lure of Magical Thinking” opens Dec. 11. The exhibition runs until Dec. 24 at Bau-Xi Gallery (3045 Granville).

December 11 – December 17, 2014 W 19

ARTS // CULTURE

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FILM & TV

Flash forward Actor Patrick Sabongui on flipping burgers, fulfillment, and The Flash

somebody mop and go, ‘that guy’s never mopped a hallway in his life,’” says Sabongui during a recent chat over espressos on The Drive.

But even when Sabongui was punching his timecard at non-showbiz day jobs, he felt Sabrina fulfilled as an artist, because Furminger he was doing what he needed Reel People to do in order to pursue his @Sabrinarmf craft.

It’s a point of view that he’s fostering in the next generaPatrick Sabongui flipped a tion of Vancouver actors and lot of burgers on his road to actresses via Fulfilling Young network TV. Artists (FYA), the mentorship The Vancouver actor is program he runs with Psych currently appearing weekly actor Sage Brocklebank. on The Flash, The CW’s hit FYA pairs early-career superhero series about the thespians aged 18-24 with fastest man alive that preestablished actors. The aim miered this past October. is to help the young artists Sabongui plays Captain David figure out what it means to be Singh, the titular character’s fulfilled as an actor. beleaguered boss.

It’s a critical question in an On the road to portrayindustry where soul-sucking ing Captain Singh, Sabongui auditions and long stretches logged dozens of acting and between gigs are par for the stunt credits, and held down course. at least 17 non-showbiz day “If you’re not fulfilled as jobs. an artist, even if you do book, He’s been a sous chef and a and you get on a show, evenAPPROVAL REQUIRED He’s taught camp counselor.

The enclosed proof is sent for your approval. We will not proceed with the job until the proof is returned. going to cash the tually you’re rock-climbing.

He’s driven CHECK CAREFULLY! DO NOT GIVE VERBAL INSTRUCTIONS. cheque and go, ‘So? I don’t Beyond this point we cannot accept responsibility for any errors. Alterations (other than typocabs.

He’s mopped aproof lot“OK”ofor “OK with corrections” as the case may graphical errors) will be charged extra. Mark believe in this, it’s not my signing your name so we may know that the proof reached the proper authority. flbe,oors. material, it’s not my creative “I’ll watch TV and watch voice, I’m working, but I’m SIGNATURE OF APPROVAL DATE

Patrick Sabongui still jaded,’” says Sabongui.

“Fulfillment is that thing that continues after the job is over.”

Sabongui’s journey to fulfillment began in Montreal. The son of academics, Sabongui grew up curious, creative, and highly physical.

He pursued dance, sports, theatre, stage combat, and an array of martial arts, including Shaolin kung fu, jeet kune do,

capoiera, jiu jitsu, and kali.

He earned a BFA in drama for human development from Concordia University, after which it took him three years to get into grad school.

Sabongui credits his then-fiancé (and now wife), Helix star Kyra Zagorsky, with finally getting him into a postgrad program.

“She coached me up on my third year, and I did one

unified audition, and I got 19 offers,” he says. He completed his MFA at the University of California.

Post-grad, Sabongui and Zagorsky settled in LA, and Sabongui pursued stunt gigs and acting roles in 24, E-Ring, and Afghan Knights.

It was while filming 300 in Montreal in 2005 that he befriended artists from Vancouver’s stunt community. “They were supportive to each other, and they shared information and jobs, and it wasn’t cutthroat and it wasn’t competitive,” says Sabongui.

So when Sabongui and Zagorsky were on the hunt for a city in which they could put down roots with their two young children, Vancouver – with its career opportunities, welcoming stunt community, and family-friendly feel – was their first choice.

And it was a great decision (Sabongui’s long list of Vancouver-based stunt and acting credits includes Continuum, TRON: Legacy, The Cabin in the Woods, and Godzilla), save for the fact that the American-born Zagorsky is now in Sabongui’s hometown of Montreal for half the year, filming Helix.

“The irony doesn’t escape me,” laughs Sabongui.

As Captain Singh on The Flash, Sabongui is blazing

trails. Singh is the first openly gay character in the DC Universe, a fact that finally made its way to the screens on Dec. 2, when Captain Singh referred to an as yet unseen boyfriend.

As to what else viewers will see of Singh’s personal life – well, only time will tell, says Sabongui.

“Right from the beginning, [executive producer] Andrew Kreisberg was clear about, ‘we don’t have to hide the fact that Singh is gay, that’s just who he is,’” he says.

“You also have to keep in mind that they’re planning for the show to go on for a long time, and so there’s no rush, I think, to get to the relationships that are established in the comic books.”

Sabongui currently shares the bulk of his scenes with Jesse L. Martin (Rent; Law & Order) and series star Grant Gustin.

“Both of those guys just blow me away and elevate my game,” he says. “Working with these guys, you get the full effect of the performance right there on set, live. You lock on their eyes and it’s fireworks.”

The Flash airs Tuesdays at 8pm on CTV. For more information about Fulfilling Young Artists, visit FulfillingYoungArtis.wix.com/fyartists. W

SHAELYN

Three years ago, Shaelyn couldn’t afford them for her boys.

TODAY, SHAELYN BOUGHT GROCERIES.

It’s easy to take for granted the ordinary things in our lives. But for many families, something as ordinary as buying groceries is impossible.

You can make it possible.

Help move families from poverty to possibility.

Please give.

Meet Shaelyn. uwlm.ca/Shaelyn

20 W December 11 – December 17, 2014 NAME:

GlacierMedia_Fall2014_HalfPg_Horz_AD_OCT2014_Shaelyn-UW

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ARTS // CULTURE

MOVIE REVIEWS Christian Bale stars in Exodus: Gods and Kings

Natural gas.

Good for cosy homes.

EXODUS: GODS AND KINGS

Starring Christian Bale, Joel Edgerton Directed by Ridley Scott While Ridley Scott is rarely credited with caring much about thematics, the subject of freedom has arisen throughout his body of work. Be it the fugitive replicants in Blade Runner, the outlaws in Thelma & Louise, or the subjugated Gladiator, his characters have frequently spilled considerable blood to attain their liberty.

Consequently, it’s not particularly surprising that his Biblical epic should boast a budget for hemoglobin rivalled only by the considerable funds devoted to bronzer. We’re introduced to Moses (Christian Bale, brooding and scraggly) and Rhamses (Joel Edgerton, preening and eyelined) on a 1,300 BCE battlefield with the former forging ahead with zero regard for self-preservation and the latter promptly retreating after proving himself hapless. Welldocumented Old Testament events soon conspire to set these men against one another, with Moses springing the slaves and setting course for the Red Sea with the sanctimonious Rhamses, who’s graduated to pharaoh, in hot pursuit.

For a man so taken with characters who are willing to put everything on the line, Scott has proven risk adverse himself, shackled by a technical perfectionism that quashes any sense of wonder. Given this, it’s no surprise that while his plague of frogs is completely convincing, it possesses none of the impact of the shower of amphibians that Paul Thomas Anderson rained down in Magnolia. Likewise, while Exodus offers endless spectacle, it never manufactures anything as inventive as the Genesis time lapse sequence in Darren Aronofsky’s Noah. Ultimately, Scott’s chaos is far too controlled, making for some particularly po-faced silliness.

But, if nothing else, he instills the sense that you’ve endured a slog every bit as arduous as Moses’. –CurtisWoloschuk

Westender.com

WILD

Starring Reese Witherspoon, Laura Dern Directed by Jean-Marc Vallée Should 12 Years a Slave’s Steve McQueen ever consider stepping down as mainstream cinema’s premier sadist, Dallas Buyers Club’s Jean-Marc Vallée seems to be positioning himself as a possible successor. While he stops short of breaking out a lash in this odyssey of self-discovery, he does open it with the grisly sight of Reese Witherspoon peeling off a toenail and discarding it as if it were a used bandage. As Matthew McConaughey proved last year, sometimes you need to suffer for your Oscar.

At the precipice of 40, when Hollywood typically loses interest in its onetime ingénues, Witherspoon has evidently decided that her career requires a change of direction. Displaying grim determination, she assumes the role of Cheryl Strayed, who’s just embarked on a gruelling 18,000-kilometre trek along the Pacific Crest Trail. Having drifted into alcoholism, drug abuse and sex addiction (the unholy trinity of self-destructive behaviour) in the wake of a devastating personal loss, drastic measures are required to right her course. Given that she’s hardly the athletic type, this punishing journey qualifies.

Endeavouring to lend this forced march some lyricism, Vallée and screenwriter Nick Hornby (adapting Strayed’s best-selling memoir) treat the true story’s chronology as if it were magnetic poetry, shifting events about and lapsing into flashbacks on a whim.

However, not even recurring hallucinations of Cheryl’s beloved mother (a beatific Laura Dern) and ill-advised introduction of a deeply symbolic CGI fox can mask the reality that this is rudimentary Point-A-to-B storytelling, with the inevitable catharsis and self-actualization methodically inching closer with every minute that ticks off the runtime.

–Curtis Woloschuk

THE OVERNIGHTERS

Choosing natural gas for space and water heating means comfort and energy savings.

Directed by Jesse Moss

Appliance care

Documentaries are seldom as compelling or fascinating as Jesse Moss’ story of broken American dreams in The Overnighters. An ailing U.S. economy forces hundreds of job hunters to trek across the country, from every state imaginable, to the bleak oilfields of Williston, North Dakota.

Classes and cultures clash as local pastor Jay Reinke risks his career to give these huddled masses overnight shelter in the community’s church. It doesn’t take long for locals to voice concerns as crime and mistrust slowly begin to rise.

Reinke makes for a compelling and engrossing protagonist as he constantly deals with the challenge of helping his fellow man in a ubiquitously positive way while facing a mounting series of setbacks and criticisms as seeds of doubt begin to germinate in the tiny town.

What makes The Overnighters so effective is the transparency of the film; there is no hidden agenda here, just a simple peeling back of the layers to expose a seedy underbelly of fear and prejudice that act as a microcosm for U.S. culture and the problems plaguing its working middle class.

An assortment of characters are introduced, some with good intentions while others’ motives remain murky.

Through it all, Reinke remains steadfast in his mission, even allowing a former sex offender to spend time under his own roof with his family.

The film takes a dramatic left turn towards the end as The Overnighters proves to be a superbly crafted documentary that serves up a slice of rotten American apple pie. W –Thor Diakow

Keep your appliances operating at their best. Have them regularly inspected and maintained by a licensed natural gas contractor.

Use the FortisBC Trade Ally Network to find a contractor in your community. Learn more at fortisbc.com/appliancecare.

FortisBC uses the FortisBC name and logo under license from Fortis Inc. (14-117.24 12/2014)

Please consider McLaren Housing in your holiday giving.

www.mclarenhousing.org Providing housing and support services to people living with HIV/AIDS since 1987.

Charity BN Registration # 10768 3328 RR0001 Tax receipts will be issued for donations of $20 or more.

December 11 – December 17, 2014 W 21

22 W December 11 – December 17, 2014

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HEALTH

Foods to keep you warm this winter Patty Javier Gomez Whole Nourishment

@WholeNourishBC The inevitable cold weather is here and it’s going to keep on coming. With that comes the sniffles, sneezing, and overall leakage of the mid to upper face region. And then there is the actually physical sensation of being cold, which – this Caribbean girl will tell you – sucks! SO much. While it ain’t “Ontario” cold, we Vancouverites still need to take the same precautions as our neighbours to the east.

Lower temperatures mean more sickness, and with the added stress this time of year it is of most importance to do everything you can to keep warm in order to avoid getting sick. Being cold drops overall immune response, lowering our body’s ability to fight illness, leaving us susceptible to, well, feeling pretty crappy.

Now, there are many ways to keep warm, such as layering up and wearing the proper outside gear (those winter toques and scarves are no longer reserved for hipsters and trendy folk). Other options include making a fire,

growing a beard, or drinking a hot boozy Christmas beverage (‘tis the season, after all).

But food is also a great way to keep warm during the winter months.

Certain foods can increase your metabolism, which means there are more chemical reactions happening in your body giving you heat and energy, and because digestion increases the body’s temperature, skipping meals is not a great idea.

Here are some great foods that will help you keep warm this winter.

GINGER

Boosts your immune and digestive system and helps you keep warm. Ginger increases feelings of warmth and wellbeing. Stick some ginger in your meals or just have it as a straight tea. Boom!

SPICES

Cinnamon, cumin, paprika, nutmeg, and allspice help to generate heat in your body, increase your metabolism, and are a great delicious addition to those hot winter drinks. Vegan eggnog anyone? Or regular one, whatever you are into.

COCONUT OIL

All healthy fat will help

you keep warm but coconut oil is not only good for cooking and eating, but can also be used as a moisturizer, helping you from losing heat through dry skin.

HOT SOUPS, STEWS, AND BROTHS

An obvious one and a tasty one. Get your slow cooker out and create some hot nourishing pots of yumminess. This classic comfort tummy-loving food will keep you cozy all night and winter long.

WHOLE GRAINS

Complex carbohydrates (like oats, barley, quinoa, and brown rice) not only give you much needed fuel for your body but also gives your body immediate warmth. They are full of B-complex and magnesium helping your thyroid and adrenals regulate your body temperature better.

HYDRATION

We lose moisture in cool climates for a few different reasons, including the fact that increased blood flow to the kidneys make us urinate more often. So drink your water people.

SPICY FOODS

Now I ain’t talking spicy to the point where you may

need to seek medical attention for minor mouth burns, cause...ouch! I’m talking about adding spicy seasonings like paprika, cayenne, or anything made from chili peppers, as they increase your body temperature creating amazing warming effects.

Natalie Langston Fitness on the Run @LangstonNatalie Workout gadgets are a hot new gym trend, with practicality and functionality high on the list of must-have features. Another plus, these wearable fitness trackers are easy to use, simple to track, and fashionable enough to pair well with any workout outfit. Future Shop general manager Milan Pocuca breaks down the good and the bad.

The Fitbit (which comes in three different models: Fitbit Flex, Fitbit One, and Fitbit Zip) tracks your daily activity with steps, distance, and calories burned.

“People are more conscious of their health these days and the Fitbit is very beneficial to keep you on track,” says Pocuca. With that goal in mind, you can improve your workout regime with the calories you’d like to burn in your day. With the Fitbit, you are able to accomplish these goals a lot easier.

The Fitbit automatically syncs your stats to your computer and select smartphones.

Check your progress with free graphs, charts, and tools to provide insight in to your fitness. You can even make your

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able. I had more drive toward my fitness goals as I saw myself accomplishing what I had set for myself and I wanted to challenge myself with even higher goals.

The Samsung Galaxy Gear 2 is the next level up from the Fitbit; a hybrid fitness band and smartwatch.

On top of tracking the same activities such as running, cycling, or hiking, it has a built in sleep mode. It acts like a regular watch with the ability to create customizable faces and even make phone calls while connected to your

City-wide & by neighbourhood, we want your opinion!

Go to westender.com/contests and enter your choices.

Voting closes January 18, 2015.

“GOH BALLET BREATHES NEW LIFE INTO NUTCRACKER”

RECIPE //

— THE GLOBE AND MAIL

GINGER CARROT SOUP

3 cups carrots, peeled and sliced 3 cloves garlic, crushed Grated zest of 1 orange 2-3 tbsp fresh grated ginger Juice of 1 lemon 1 ¼ cups organic orange juice 1 ¼ cup of water 2/3 cup broth 2/3 cup coconut milk Bring 1 1/4 cups of water to a boil in a large pan and add the carrots, ginger, garlic, orange zest, and juice. Simmer for 20 minutes, or until the carrots are soft. Add the lemon juice. Allow to cool a little, and then blend until smooth.

Return to the pan and reheat, thinning with coconut milk and broth until just below boiling.

Track your fitness with these latest gadgets fitness fun by setting goals, earning badges, and challenging your friends to go farther.

“The great thing about all the Fitbits, they are sweat, rain and splash proof and are easy to use,” says Pocuca.

The Zip is the basic model that tracks your activity level, calories burned, and distance traveled. Instead of the escalator or elevator, take the stairs and watch while your steps climb. The One is exactly the same as the Zip, except it tracks your sleep quality, measuring how much you were twisting and turning in the night. Without proper sleep, your workouts will start to diminish and your energy will plummet.

The Fitbit Flex, which retails at about $100, is a slim, minimalistic wristband that is the most popular and stylish with funky colours to choose from and all the features that both the Zip and One can provide.

Personally I preferred the Fitbit One because it’s easy to clip on and simple to use.

I was also surprised at how I responded when I achieved the amount of steps I set for myself. It acted as positive reinforcement, celebrating how much fitness I consciously achieved in my day, giving me the desire to run, cycle or hike more the following day.

It encourages you to workout because it keeps you account-

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Bluetooth. There’s also a built-in camera and full HD video, and a music player so you can rock out to the latest jams. With the watch, the need to have your phone on you is eliminated, making it easier to workout and keep up with your daily tasks.

“Keep your eyes peeled as Motorola and Apple both have smart watches coming out in the new year,” Pocuca says.

For any of the active people in your life, these tech tools will make the perfect holiday gift. W

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REAL ESTATE

Out after dark OUT AFTER DARK is a weekly feature highlighting social and cultural events around Vancouver.

Got an upcoming event? Email us at OutAfterDark@Westender.com

The Vancouver Hyatt Regency Hotel has been sold for $140 million – roughly $217,000 per room – to a Toronto-based real estate investment trust.

1

Hyatt sold for $140 million FRANK O’BRIEN fobrien@biv.com

Toronto-based InnVest Real Estate Investment Trust has bought Vancouver’s 644room Hyatt Regency Hotel for $140 million, the equivalent of $217,000 per room.

Following completion of the sale, a Hyatt Hotels Corp. affiliate will continue to manage the hotel under a new long-term management contract. The sale is expected to close this month.

Built in 1973, the Hyatt is located at the northwest corner of Burrard and West

Georgia streets and has some of the city’s largest standard guest rooms and meeting space.

Carrie Russell, managing director of hotel industry analyst firm HVS International, said there has been increased investor interest this year in downtown Vancouver hotel properties. She noted that so far in 2014 the Days Inn and Best Western Sands hotels have sold, both to investors from China.

Also a “good portion” of the hotel-condos in the Westin Grand hotel has reportedly been sold to a single investor,

Russell added.

Last week, Daniel Fournier, chairman and CEO of Ivanhoe Cambridge said that its Fairmont Hotel Vancouver is close to a sale under a bid process that is now closed.

Russell is not surprised by the hotel sales action.

“Vancouver is heading into a very strong convention year, Revpar [revenue per available room] is very high, and there has been little new construction. The outlook for the Vancouver hotel market is very positive.”

–Courtesy of Business in Vancouver

2 3

Turn your

1 The cast of Vancouver comedy WHAT AN IDIOT were on the red carpet at the film’s premiere at the WHISTLER FILM FESTIVAL on Dec. 5 at Millennium Place in Whistler. From left: DAVE COLLETTE, TRACY TRUEMAN, LEAH GIBSON, LOCHLYN MUNRO, JULIA BENSON, NICHOLAS CARELLA, ALEKS PAUNOVIC, EMILIE ULLERUP, AND MICHAEL ECKLUND. 2 Canadian Olympic Medallists MAELLE RICKER and SIMON WHITFIELD were joined

by Swatch Group Canada manager HAZEM SBAYTEH at OMEGA’s annual holiday soiree on Dec. 2. 3 NOVO PIZZERIA AND WINE BAR celebrated its third anniversary on Dec. 1. Manager MARIUS POPA (L) and owner CARMINE PARADISO (R) were on hand for the festivities.

4 Vancouver conceptual artist C3 invited art lovers to experience the beauty of things unseen with her installation of tiny paper sculptures – created using issues of WESTENDER – affixed to a human model at the LAB ART SHOW last month.

4

bucket list wish list into your Christmas

Is there something you really, really want to do in 2015? Something that transforms “One day I want to...” into “This year I’m going to...”?

Why not start a crowdfunding campaign to make it happen?

• Go to FundAid.ca and hit the start button. Tell a compelling story about why your project or adventure is so important to you.

• Send a link to your family and friends to let them know that instead of buying you a Christmas gift, they can make a donation to your campaign.

• Use your campaign page to update everyone about your adventure, thanking your donors for helping you realize your dreams.

Black

CMYK

Pantone

24 W December 11 – December 17, 2014

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REAL ESTATE //

@WESTENDERVAN

Rob Joyce & Sales Associate Roger Ross

West End Specialists Nobody knows the West End better!

MLS Diamond Master Medallion Award 2013

Penthouse 2 1855 Nelson West of Denman Truly amazing 18’ x 16’ patio 2 bdrm + den + loft. A very rare offering with 20 ft. cathedral ceilings, 1219 sf. and 3 patio decks. Pets OK. $669,900.

Heritage Studio 1055 Harwood #309 Top floor studio near

Sunset Beach and just blocks to the heart of downtown. Large kitchen and an eat-in area, refinished red oak floors. 400 sq. ft. $173,000.

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Stanley Park one + den + two patios. Den can be 2nd bedroom.

Hardwood, unique plan & faces 3 sides. Strata. Pets OK. $444,000.

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SOLD 1879 Barclay #201 Top floor SW heritage character suite at Ralston Court.

West of Denman by the park. $284,900.

English Bay ocean, city and mountain views at The Sandpiper.

NWcorner 1 bdrm & enclosed solarium. Pets OK. 640 sf. $414,000.

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West of Denman 1855 Nelson #301 The Westpark

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SOLD 1740 Comox #1903 Water Views Unobstructed

SOLD 1720 Barclay #102 Just East of Denman. Glorious redesigned two bedroom at Lancaster Gate. Outdoor pool. $324,900.

Sales Associate Roger Ross

West End Specialist Rob Joyce

www.robjoyce.ca

SOLD 1816 Haro #302 West of Denman magnificient high end renovations and a city view. Solid concrete. $329,900.

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ReInDeeR games Great gift for the whole family! This smartly laid out immaculately clean one bedroom & den corner suite beckons first time buyers, investors, singles, couples, retirees, pet lovers & those looking for holiday or corporate pad in central location. Steps to shops, services, transportation, Yaletown, West End, Davie & Robson streets, Granville entertainment strip, sporting venues, business district, Stanley Park, English Bay seawall & Granville Island ferry. Featuring insuite laundry, den perfect for home office or occasional guest, king size master, wraparound windows, great storage, underground parking, visitor parking, onsite caretaker & gym – even Rudolph will see the value in this one. Rental agents have estimated income in the 1500/ mo range unfurnished. $335,000

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sanTa’s woRkshoP Lots of room for Santa & all the elves to build & pack all the toys for delivery Christmas Eve. Wonderful smells from Mrs Claus’ Christmas baking & space to house & feed all those elves! This three level legal duplex on 72 by 122 foot lot currently has seven bedrooms, six baths, two kitchens, two family rooms, two laundry rooms, four fireplaces, two decks, two driveways & much more but the potential is amazing to renovate or build now, hold for future & receive amazing revenue or live in now & use all that extra space as mortgage helpers. The lot is amazing with lane access & mature garden located in area of much development near Brentwood, Kensington & Burnaby Heights. soLD $1,200,000

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ComIng soon Many preparing for 2015 moves. Get on the list to market your property at the best time or provide your Christmas wish list to our team of elves to find the perfect place!

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DEXTER ASSOCIATES REALTY 604-689-8226 604-263-1144 Kevin Skipworth Managing Broker

Layla Bamford

Nicole Cannon

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Christopher Dohm

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www.dexterrealty.com

Jeff Holmes

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Best wishes for the Holiday season, from all of us at Dexter Associates Realty Gloria Chamberlain 604-263-1144

308-33 WEST PENDER ST.

$358,800 713-1333 HORNBY ST.

Modern design home. Spacious 671 sq. ft. High end finishings.

Check out our website, www.dexterrealty.com for current market condition updates.

$249,900

VIEWS TO ENGLISH BAY. Bright SouthWest top floor unit. Completely updated with redesigned kitchen & full-sized appliances. Breakfast bar, sleeping nook & easy care finishes. Enjoy the view from large bay window with skylight and balcony. Great investment property.

Ed Gramauskas Cell: 604-618-9727

Commercial Real Estate Needs? Dexter Associates Realty’s

commercial team will answer all of your questions and will help with all your commercial needs. Whether you need office space, somewhere to set up your business or retail store, or are looking to buy an investment property we can help you. Call us at 604-689-8226 today.

P E R S O N A L R E A L E S TAT E C O R P O R AT I O N

604.787.1456 tom@tomdavishomes.ca www.tomdavishomes.ca

THE MADISON

Ideal location for young families, students and retirees in Kitsilano. Transit, shops, restaurants right at your front door. Close to Elementary, Secondary schools, UBC , parks & beach with a 95 Walk Score!

Sherree Mitchell 604.240.0762 Frank Zomar 604.377.5728

Freshly painted in neutral colours, new broadloom, newer washer/dryer. Move right in to this immaculate open plan 2 bed, 2 bath + solarium top floor unit in a quality rain screened building featuring in-suite storage and 1 secure underground parking.

5487 West Boulevard, Vancouver

416-2929 West 4th, 2 bdrm, 2 bath, $518,000, 24 Sat 2-4

$309,000

Older Kits one bedroom suite. This 584 sq ft suite has an efficient layout, is freshly painted and has a large patio. Some updating, just add your personal touch. Pkg + storage incl. Pets + Rentals welcome. Quick occupancy.

tom davis

Wishing you and yours much Joy and Happiness this holiday season.

Kitsilano

$445,000 109-2255 WEST 5TH AVE.

IMMACULATE 1 bedroom, den + balcony in the STERLING with all the amenities of Downtown at your doorstep! North facing unit with a super functional layout, tons of natural light & an unobstructed view of the city and mountains. Original owners, very well maintained unit features an open concept kitchen with full size SS appliances, granite counters, maple cabinets, 9’ ceilings, a limestone gas fireplace, den/storage, open balcony & 1 parking space. 662 sq ft. STERLING is a quality, concrete bldg. w/a gym, concierge, hot tub & sauna. Call for showing.

Details & Photos of all lofts for sale in Vancouver

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Su-Marie Baird 604-263-1144 sumarieb@hotmail.com www.sumariebaird.com

Nicole Cannon 778-989-8784

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Quick possession available!

Visit www.tomdavishomes.ca/318

Call any of the agents for photos and floor plan. in the Westender Real Estate section and your home could EXTRAORDINARY EXTRAORDINARY REAL ESTATE REAL ESTATE appear here.

New Listing 416 2929 West 4th Ave, Vancouver, BC Year Built 1999 Floor Plan 916 sq ft Offered at $518,000 Property Taxes $1,758 (2014) Maintenance Fee $369.55

Open House Saturday 2 to 4pm

Royal LePage Northshore.

Royal 2407LePage Marine Northshore.

Drive, West2407 Vancouver, Marine BC Drive, V7V West 1L3.

Vancouver, This communication BC V7V 1L3. is not Thisintended communication to cause is ornot induce intended a breach to cause of anor existing induceagency a breach agreement. of an existing agency agreement.

26 W December 11 – December 17, 2014

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PLEASE READ THE FINE PRINT: Offers valid until January 2, 2015. See toyota.ca for complete details on all cash back offers. In the event of any discrepancy or inconsistency between Toyota prices, rates and/or other information contained on toyotabc.ca and that contained on toyota.ca, the latter shall prevail. Errors and omissions excepted. 2014 Tundra Double Cab SR 4.6L SR5 Plus 4x4 Automatic UM5F1T-C MSRP is $40,640 and includes $1,815 freight and pre-delivery inspection, tire levy and air conditioning charge. *Finance example: 0.9% finance for 72 months, upon credit approval, available on 2014 Tundra Double Cab SR5 4.6L SR5 Plus 4x4 Automatic UM5F1T-C. Applicable taxes are extra. **Up to $7500 Non-Stackable Cash Back available on select 2014 Tundra models. Non-stackable cash back on 2014 Tundra Double Cab SR5 4.6L SR5 Plus 4x4 Automatic UM5F1T-C is $5500. 2015 Corolla CE 6M Manual BURCEM-A MSRP is $17,540 and includes $1,545 freight and pre-delivery inspection and tire levy. †Lease example: 2015 Corolla CE 6M with a vehicle price of $17,540, includes $1,545 freight/PDI leased at 0.99% over 40 months with $1,350 down payment equals 80 semi-monthly payments of $88 with a total lease obligation of $8,366. Lease 40 mos. based on 60,000 km, excess km charge is $.07. ††Finance example: 0.99% finance for 48 months, upon credit approval, available on 2015 Corolla CE 6M Manual BURCEM-A. Applicable taxes are extra. 2015 RAV4 FWD LE Automatic ZFREVT-A MSRP is $25,820 and includes $1,815 freight and pre-delivery inspection, tire levy and air conditioning charge. ‡Lease example: 2015 RAV4 FWD LE Automatic ZFREVT-A with a vehicle price of $25,820 includes $1,815 freight/PDI leased at 0.99% over 40 months with $1,495 down payment equals 80 semi-monthly payments of $135 with a total lease obligation of $12,288. Lease 40 mos. based on 60,000 km, excess km charge is $.10. ‡‡Finance example: 0.99% finance for 36 months, upon credit approval, available on 2015 RAV4 FWD LE Automatic ZFREVT-A. Applicable taxes are extra. ¥NOTE: Limited availability on 2014 models and suffixes, see dealer for details. Applicable taxes are extra. Down payment, first semi-monthly payment and security deposit plus GST and PST on first payment and full down payment are due at lease inception. A security deposit is not required on approval of credit. Non-stackable Cash Back offers may not be combined with Toyota Financial Services (TFS) lease or finance rates. If you would like to lease or finance at standard TFS rates (not the above special rates), then you may be January 2, 2015. Cash incentives include taxes and are applied after taxes have been charged on the full amount of the negotiated price. See toyota.ca for complete details on all cash back offers. ¥¥“The Freedom 40 Lease delivers a lower monthly payment by extending standard terms by four months without a rate increase and without a corresponding reduction in Lease-end Value”. As an example, standard term of 36 months can be stretched to 40 months. Freedom 40 Lease offer is valid until January 2, 2015. ¥¥¥Semi-monthly lease offer available through Toyota Financial Services on approved credit to qualified retail customers on most 24, 28, 36, 40, 48, 52, 60 and 64 month leases of new and demonstrator Toyota vehicles. First semi-monthly payment due at lease inception and next monthly payment due approximately 15 days later and semi-monthly thereafter throughout the term. Toyota Financial Services will waive the final payment. Semi-monthly lease offer can be combined with most other offers excluding the First Payment Free and Encore offers. First Payment Free offer is valid for eligible TFS Lease Renewal customers only. Toyota semi-monthly lease program based on 24 payments per year, on a 40-month lease, equals 80 payments, with the final 80th payment waived by Toyota Financial Services. Not open to employees of Toyota Canada, Toyota Financial Services or TMMC/TMMC Vehicle Purchase Plan. Some conditions apply. See your Toyota dealer for complete details. Visit your Toyota BC Dealer or www.toyotabc.ca for more details. Some conditions apply; offers are time limited and may change without notice. Dealer may lease/sell for less.

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BMW have introduced a spiritual successor to its legendary 2002 coupe with the new 2 Series. The 2 Series is an impressive, all-new nameplate for 2014 that boasts tight two-door lines with a seating for four.

The 2 Series replaces the 1 Series and keeps BMW’s naming strategy aligned – sedans start with odd numbers and coupes with even numbers.

Currently, the 2 Series is available in two models: The base 228i and a sportier M235i.

Early next year a 2 Series Cabriolet will be available.

The all-new 2 Series brings with it a distinctly masculine appearance. This edgy look is defined by the pronounced lower air intakes and unique headlights. The aggressive lines flow down the sides and are complimented by the tapered roofline.

Both 2 Series models are motivated by potent and efficient turbocharged engines, with the base 228i powered

by BMW’s proven 2.0-litre inline-four that is rated at 241 hp and 258 lb-ft of torque.

Under the hood of the M235i is a 3.0-litre inline-six which bumps power to 322 hp and 332 lb-ft of torque. Being the only rear-wheel drive car in this class makes the 2 Series a funto-drive, “serious” compact.

Aiding this factor is the BMW’s ability to create maximum torque at low rpm and holding it over a long range. Not to be forgotten, the 2 Series is a very light car and therefore has a very good power-to-weight ratio. The motor in the M235i only has to move 4.9 kg for each horsepower.

Power is relayed to the wheels through either the standard six-speed manual or an eight-speed Sport Automatic.

The manual is nearly perfect.

The clutch is nicely weighted and the shifter has a short

throw allowing you to make quick changes.

Despite that praise, the optional automatic is even better. It has a gear for every circumstance, and as a result, is quicker and more fuel efficient.

Where the 2 Series really stands out is with its handling.

It feels like an extension of the driver. The optional Adaptive M Suspension deals with road imperfections while limiting body roll. Likewise, the standard variable sport steering is crisp and requires minimal effort to keep the nose pointed in the right direction.

What’s so astonishing is the fact that when I drove the M235i back to back with a much bigger and more expensive M4 coupe, I actually enjoyed driving the M235i significantly more due to its light, easy-to-drive athletic character.

The cabin of the 2 Series is very driver-centric and will feel familiar to current BMW owners. The materials are all high quality and the controls are conveniently placed for easy reach. The front seats are well bolstered and keep you planted around hard corners and comfortable cruising around town.

The chunky steering wheel provides good grip and allows adequate feedback for the driver. The overall steering feel is one of the best I’ve experienced this year.

The BMW 228i has a starting price of $36,000 and the M235i starts at $45,000.

Standard equipment includes heated front seats, auto dimming interior mirror, automatic climate control, adaptive cruise control, rain-sensing wipers and auto headlights, runflat tires, and USB integration with Bluetooth.

While it may lack the passenger space of its four-door rivals, the BMW 2 Series is a premium sports coupe with excellent performance that brings back all the great things about owning a BMW. W

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SEX

Free Will Astrology

By Rob Brezsny Lord Byron (1788-1824) was an English poet who loved animals. In the course of his life, he not only had dogs and cats as pets, but also monkeys, horses, peacocks, geese, a crocodile, a falcon, a crane, and a parrot. When he enrolled in Trinity College at age 17, he was upset that the school’s rules forbade students from having pet dogs, which meant he couldn’t bring his adored Newfoundland dog Boatswain. There was no regulation, however, against having a tame bear as a pet. So Byron got one and named it Bruin. I think it’s time for you to find a workaround like that, Aries.

Be cunning. Try a gambit or two. Find a loophole.

Whenever I lost one of my baby teeth as a kid, I put it under my pillow before I went to sleep. During the night, the Tooth Fairy sneaked into my room to snatch the tooth, and in its place left me 25 cents.

The same crazy thing happened to every kid I knew, although for unknown reasons my friend John always got five dollars for each of his teeth – far more than the rest of us. I see a metaphorically comparable development in your life, Taurus. It probably won’t involve teeth or a visit from the Tooth Fairy.

Rather, you will finally be compensated for a loss or deprivation or disappearance that you experienced in the past. I expect the restitution will be generous, too – more like John’s than mine.

Through the scientific magic of grafting, a single tree can be altered to grow several different kinds of fruit at the same time. One type of “fruit salad tree” produces apricots, nectarines, plums, and peaches, while another bears grapefruits, lemons, oranges, limes, and tangelos. I’m thinking this might be an apt and inspiring symbol for you in the coming months, Gemini. What multiple blooms will you create on your own metaphorical version of a fruit salad tree?

No other structure on the planet is longer than the Great Wall of China, which stretches 3,945 miles.

It’s not actually one unbroken span, though. Some sections aren’t connected, and there are redundant branches that are roughly parallel to the main structure. It reminds me of your own personal Great Wall, which is monumental yet permeable, strong in some ways but weak in others, daunting to the casual observer but less so to those who take the time to study it. Now is an excellent time to take inventory of that wall of yours. Is it serving you well? Is it keeping out the influences you don’t want but allowing in the influences you do want? Could it use some renovation? Are you willing to reimagine what its purpose is and how you want it to work for you in the future?

Even if you are not formally enrolled in a course of study or a training program, you are nevertheless being schooled. Maybe you’re not fully conscious of what you have been learning. Maybe your teachers are disguised or unwitting. But I assure you that the universe has been dropping some intense new knowledge on you. The coming week will be an excellent time to become more conscious of the lessons you have been absorbing. If you have intuitions about where this educational drama should go next, be proactive about making that happen.

You now have a special ability to detect transformations that are happening below the threshold of everyone else’s awareness. Anything that has been hidden or unknown will reveal itself to your gentle probes. You will also be skilled at communicating your discoveries to people who are important to you. Take full advantage of these superpowers. Don’t underestimate how pivotal a role you can play as a teacher, guide, and catalyst. The future success of your collaborative efforts depends on your next moves.

Harper Lee was born and raised in Alabama. At the age of 23, she relocated to New York City with hopes of becoming a writer. It was a struggle. To support herself, she worked as a ticket agent for airline companies. Finding the time to develop her craft was difficult. Seven years went by. Then one Christmas, two friends gave her a remarkable gift: Enough money to quit her job and work on her writing for a year. During that grace period, Lee created the basics for a book that won her a Pulitzer Prize: To Kill a Mockingbird.

I don’t foresee anything quite as dramatic for you in the coming months, Sagittarius. But I do suspect you will receive unexpected help that provides you with the slack and spaciousness you need to lay the foundations for a future creation.

In the ancient Greek epic poem the Odyssey, Odysseus’s wife Penelope describes two kinds of dreams.

“Those that that pass through the gate of ivory,” she says, are deceptive. But dreams that “come forth through the gate of polished horn” tell the truth.

Another ancient text echoes these ideas. In his poem the Aeneid, Virgil says that “true visions” arrive here from the land of dreams through the gate of horn, whereas “deluding lies” cross over through the gate of ivory. Judging from the current astrological omens, Capricorn, I expect you will have interesting and intense dreams flowing through both the gate of ivory and the gate of horn. Will you be able to tell the difference? Trust love.

The Arctic Monkeys are British rockers who have produced five studio albums, which together have sold almost five million copies. Rolling Stone magazine called their first album, released in 2003, the 30th greatest debut of all time. Yet when they first formed in 2002, none of them could play a musical instrument. I see the current era of your life, Leo, as having a similar potential. How might you start from scratch to create something great?

Your chances of going viral are better than usual.

It’s a perfect moment to upload a Youtube video of yourself wearing a crown of black roses and a V for Vendetta mask as you ride a unicycle inside a church and sing an uptempo parody version of “O Come All Ye Faithful.” It’s also a favorable time for you to create a buzz for you and your pet causes through less spectacular measures. Promote yourself imaginatively.

Alan Turing (1912-1954) was a British mathematician and pioneering computer scientist. After World War II broke out, he got worried that the German army might invade and occupy England, as it had done to France. To protect his financial assets, he converted everything he owned into bars of silver, then buried them underground in the countryside north of London. When the war ended, he decided it was safe to dig up his fortune. Unfortunately, he couldn’t recall where he had put it, and never did find it. Let’s draw a lesson from his experience, Virgo. It’s fine if you want to stash a treasure or protect a secret or safeguard a resource. That’s probably a sensible thing to do right now. But make sure you remember every detail about why and how you’re doing it.

At age 80, author Joan Didion has published five novels, 10 works of non-fiction, and five screenplays.

When she was 27, she wrote, “I have already lost touch with a couple of people I used to be.” That wasn’t a good thing, she added: “We are well-advised to keep on nodding terms with the people we used to be, whether we find them attractive company or not. Otherwise they turn up unannounced and surprise us, come hammering on the mind’s door and demand to know who deserted them, who betrayed them, who is going to make amends.” I recommend her counsel to you in the coming months, Pisces. Get reacquainted with the old selves you have outgrown and abandoned.

My top sex accessories of 2014 Sex with Mish Way

@MyszkaWay I’ve been a sex writer for almost four years now, which means two things: 1) My parents do not read my columns, and 2) I get to experiment with really freaky sex toys and products that are sent to my door. To be honest, I’m not huge on sex accessories.

When you are with the right partner, it’s really easy to just shrug and call yourself a meatand-potatoes kind of person.

However, there’s some toys that are so cool you can’t really ignore them. Get on that Ferris wheel and soon you are addicted to the stomach flip.

So here’s my list of the top sex accessories of the year.

FORIA (THE “WEED LUBE”)

A few months back, VICE commissioned me to test out the infamous “weed lube”. I met up with Foria’s Wellness Director, Matthew Gerson, to talk about his creation: The first THCenhanced pre-lube designed to aid female sexual arousal.

A natural, more granola approach to better orgasms.

When Foria hit the market, it blew up all over the internet and, duh, rightfully so. The way it was being branded was enough to intrigue a Mormon. Foria, in fact, should not be used as a lube, but a pre-lube.

The spray has been scientifically modified to contain a restricted amount of THC in each pump. When I used

Foria, I sprayed it on each morning and let it resonate with my vulva. During tests, Foria users reported more intense orgasms, longerlasting orgasms, and all-over relaxation. But the most successful target group was women who have been through menopause (whose, according to the medical community, sexual pleasure is not essential to their health after the baby making juices dry up).

I still use Foria. It’s great to use orally (and get a nice little body high) and has helped keep improve my vagina’s general health as well as it’s functions. The way I looked at Foria was more like a message for our entire culture’s way of being, similar to what Gerson believed: Allowing the pleasure of sex to inform our approaches to health and wellness seems to make a lot of sense. Orgasms make you relaxed and happy. It’s kind of the best feeling and we should not lose sight of that pleasure, especially during the ages when the FDA and medical community want to let women know their sexual happiness is inexistent because they no longer can reproduce. That’s sexist, disgusting and boring.

I don’t know, maybe I’m just stoned. (Kidding.)

LELO TRANSFORMER

The kind folks at LeLo have sent me so many great products this past year, but the best one by far was the Transformer. The Transformer is this long cord with a handle of each end that

control the vibrations with easy button clicks. The whole thing looks like a whip, but smooth and malleable. This toy is everything in one: A rabbit vibe, a clitoral massager, a cock-ring, a G-spot vibe, a prostate massager, and more (truly you can do whatever you want with this thing). It’s a little freak of a toy and, to some, may be completely intimidating at first, but I suggest buying it in one of the “fun colors”, having a few glasses of wine, and going for it. It’s the perfect couple toy. Just remember to always use lube, which brings me to our next item...

SLIPPERY STUFF

I discovered this lube years ago at a female-oriented sex shop on Commercial Drive. Slippery Stuff is the best lubricant on the market, hands down. It’s smooth, long-lasting, and water-based, which is always the best option. Of course, this lube isn’t as easy to find at the drugstore as your basic KY crap or Astroglide, but Slippery Stuff is a better value. You use less per fuck, it lasts longer, and the ingredients are better for your skin. Until they invent a lube infused with diamonds and unicorn sparkles that turns sex into a 48-hour pleasure trip, I’m sticking by Slippery Stuff like glue. W

EMAIL MISH Send Mish your own sex questions and queries at sex@westender.com

Dec. 11: Nikki Sixx (56) Dec. 12: Frank Sinatra (99) Dec. 13: Steve Buscemi (57) Dec. 14: Vanessa Hudgens (26) Dec. 15: Alana Mychal Haim (23) Dec. 16: Krysten Ritter (33) Dec. 17: Mike Mills (56)

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Sweet or Savoury Authentic Belgian Waffles with Toppings and Drinks for 2 People at Voyage Café

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66 2-Night Cottage Stay for 2, 4 OR 8 People, Including a Bottle of Wine at The Salish-Seaside Escapes, Washington

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Visit www.socialshopper.com for more local daily deals.

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HOLIDAY ENTERTAINING Prices Effective December 11 to December 17, 2014.

While quantities last. Not all items available at all stores. We reserve the right to correct printing errors.

100% BC Owned and Operated PRODUCE

MEAT Organic

Organic

Boneless Skinless Chicken Breasts

Pomelos California Grown

Cranberries Quebec Grown

value pack

6.99lb/ 15.41kg

2.98

2/3.00

each product of USA

227g product of Canada

Long English Cucumbers

Organic

2/3.00

Red Grape Tomatoes

product of Mexico

2.98 1 pint

Diamond Willow Organic Lean Beef Stewing Meat

14.99 227g product of Vancouver, BC

Harvest Bacon

11.99 500g

9.99lb/ 22.02kg

or Thick Cut

8.99 375g

product of Mexico

GROCERY

HEALTHCARE R.W. Knudsen Sparkling Apple, Cranberry and Pear Beverages

Olympic Yogurt assorted varieties

assorted varieties

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Uncle Luke’s Organic Maple Syrup

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Fraser Valley Butter

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Green & Black’s Organic Chocolate Bars

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Zevia All Natural Sodas

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assorted varieties

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assorted varieties

Bio-K Probiotics assorted sizes

15% off

regular retail price

Ener-C Vitamin C Drink

2.19

.49 singles 12.99 30 pack

500ml product of Canada

Kettle Krinkle Cut Potato Chips

assorted varieties

100g • product of E.U.

assorted varieties

SAVE

BULK

3.99

26%

397g product of USA

Christmas Specialty Candy

San Pellegrino Mineral Water or Perrier Sparkling Water

20% off

assorted varieties

7.99-8.99

6 pack

36%

Lesley Stowes Raincoast Crisps

2/6.00

2/3.00 3/4.98

600g • product of Canada

+deposit +eco fee • product of USA

FROM

product of Canada

assorted varieties

355ml

3.49 397g Gravy 9.99 737g Roast

SAVE

SAVE 4.49 %

25

237ml

Tofurky Holiday Vegetarian Roast or Gravy

salted or unsalted

300-400g

6.99

2/6.00 37% 210g • product of USA

1L

assorted varieties

Desert Essence Body Lotions

assorted varieties

product of Canada

Stahlbush Island Farms Frozen Vegetables

SAVE

SAVE

19.99

FROM

650g product of BC, Canada

Nature’s Path Organic Frozen Waffles

assorted varieties

SAVE

2/5.00

.66 3.96

Best Salmon Ever Smoked Wild Sockeye Salmon

750ml 1L • +deposit +eco fee • product of Italy/France

xxx

DELI

regular retail price

GLUTEN FREE

BAKERY

xxx • product of xxx

Swiss Cheese

Dessert Party Tray

1.00 off/100g

9.99 30 pieces

or Boursin Cheese

Butter Tarts

5.99 150g 8” Traditional Tourtiere or New Turkey Quinoa

Kans Onion, Pumpkin and Spinach Bhajia Fritters

12.99 each

2.99/100g

www.choicesmarkets.com

5.99

8” Pumpkin Pies

or Mince Tarts with Vegetarian Filling

6.99

9” Pumpkin Pies

6.99

no egg or dairy

8.99

package of 6

/ChoicesMarkets

@ChoicesMarkets

Kitsilano

Cambie

Kerrisdale

Yaletown

Gluten Free Bakery

South Surrey

Burnaby Crest

Kelowna

Floral Shop

2627 W. 16th Ave. Vancouver

3493 Cambie St. Vancouver

1888 W. 57th Ave. Vancouver

1202 Richards St. Vancouver

2595 W. 16th Ave. Vancouver

3248 King George Blvd.

South Surrey

8683 10th Ave. Burnaby

1937 Harvey Ave. Kelowna

2615 W. 16th Vancouver

Best Organic Produce