Goldstream News Gazette, December 20, 2013

Hospital cheer

NEWS: Premature babies get close to parents A3 COMMUNITY: West Shore Lions celebrate 60 A6 ARTS: Magic of Christmas revisits WIlde roots A15

Christmas comes early to children at VGH Page A7

GOLDSTREAM

NEWS GAZETTE

Friday, December 20, 2013

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Jeneece Place gets all dolled up Volunteers, donors add extra cheer for hospital visitors Charla Huber News staff

The large fir Christmas tree, twinkling with lights and ornaments, lightens the mood at Jeneece Place.

“We gotta throw in some Christmas cheer,” said Jackie Adamthwaite, Children’s Health Foundation co-ordinator of special events.

“Anything that can take my mind off things,” said guest Adriana Spighi.

She hustled to Victoria from her home in Haida Gwaii after her daughter was rushed to Victoria General Hospital, where doctors were trying to keep the mom-to-be from delivering at 33 weeks pregnant.

“This place is incredible,” said Spighi, who had been at the house for three days. “I walked in and it blew me away.”

The concerned mother and soonto-be grandmother didn’t even know the facility existed and hadn’t planned accommodation. Finding out about Jeneece Place eased some of the stress.

More than 35 volunteers helped dress up the facility outside and inside. Spighi helped in an attempt to get her mind off of medical concerns.

Early in December staff at Jeneece Place received dozens of donations of ornaments and lights for the house and about 10 eager volunteers hung the exterior lights.

“We do this to bring any amount of happiness to families that are going through such hard times,” said Jessica Woollard, communications officer for Children’s Health Foundation.

Jeneece Place currently seeks donations of food to stock the pantry for guest families. charla@goldstreamgazetee.com

Charla Huber/News staff

Adriana Spighi, from Haida Gwaii, hangs an ornament on the tree at Jeneece Place. Spighi rushed to Victoria when her daughter was admitted to Victoria General hospital at 33 weeks pregnant.

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Friday, December 20, 2013- GOLDSTREAM

NEWS GAZETTE

Doing It Right!

Celebrating 40 years Serving the WESTSHORE!

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Congratulations on 40 years, and here’s to a great future ahead.”

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www.vicnews.com • A3

GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE - Friday, December 20, 2013

Mobile home policy awaits first foray

Charla Huber News staff

Remaining residents of Shirlmae Trailer park in Langford will have to wait longer before their plight to stay is heard by council.

“I have purchased several trailers already,” said Ron Cheeke, the park’s owner. “We are in ongoing negotiations with of the remaining tenants.”

Cheeke would not disclose how many homes in the park he has purchased to date while he’s still in the process of working with other residents.

Cheeke, a Langford business owner, has applied for rezoning of the land for commercial use.

Langford has a mobile home policy that requires him to meet several conditions to close the park including paying to dispose of homes that cannot be relocated and helping residents find new accommodation. In total the policy includes 10 stipulations a

Kyle Wells/News staff

Rachel and Lewis Freeman hold their newborn Jack, who was born more than two months early. The Freeman family was part of a study at Victoria General Hospital which sees parents more involved with the care of their premature babies.

Hands-on Healing Victoria General Hospital develops new approach to neonatal intensive care Kyle Wells News staff

A new approach to involving parents in the care of their prematurely born babies could lead to new standardized practices across the country.

When Rachel and Lewis Freeman’s baby boy Jack was born more than two months early in October, they ended up in the place no new parent wants to be: Victoria General Hospital’s neonatal intensive care unit.

When the new parents were offered the chance to have a more hands-on role with Jack during his time in hospital, they jumped at it.

“I was here everyday anyways,” Rachel said. “I was on (maternity) leave, so I can’t imagine not being here.”

“Something that was always on my mind was him thinking the nurses are his parents, because, you know, he’s fresh into the world and that’s all he sees,” Lewis said. “With Rachel being here eight hours a day, I think it really helped with him getting to know us.”

As recently as 40 years ago, parents would not have had any opportunity to interact or be involved with their premature baby, but the attitudes towards parent involvement are evolving.

Now an ongoing research project at VGH is seeing parents of premature babies become more involved with their child’s care during his or her stay.

“The goal was to empower the parents,” said Dr. Richard Taylor, neonatologist and principal investigator. “The whole goal of the study is to improve confidence in caring for their child.”

Parents are taught how to care for their newborn, about what special needs the child may have as a premature baby, and about the medical attention the child is receiving, to help the parent feel involved and assured.

“You went from being scared, the big unknown, to being really comfortable and knowing exactly what’s going on with her.”

– Justine Sparks

For the infant, the extra level of care is meant to lead to faster healing, quicker growth and, therefore, a shorter hospital stay. It also gives a child an earlier chance to bond with his or her parents.

“The outcomes do appear to be better for the babies,” Taylor said.

Justine Sparks had her baby Emma at just under 32 weeks, about nine shy of the average newborn and with bradycardia, a condition which slows a baby’s heart rate. Sparks read about the program in a pamphlet and decided she wanted to be involved.

“It appealed to me because I really wanted her home and if it made things easier for her, it was something I wanted to do,” Sparks said. “You went from being scared, the big unknown, to being really comfortable and knowing exactly what’s going on with her.”

Emma spent three weeks in the unit and by the time mother and daughter headed home, both were doing much better and were on their way to a normal, healthy future, Sparks said.

“Amazing. She’s growing like a weed,” she said.

The study started in Toronto and has since moved to random hospitals across the country.

Certain conditions must be met for the infant to be eligible to participate, including a certain level of health. At least one parent must be able to spend eight hours a day at the hospital with their child.

So far only two children have qualified for the study in Victoria, but Taylor is hoping to try the care with 50 babies over the next year or two. kwells@goldstreamgazette.com

park owner must oblige.

“It hasn’t gone before planning and zoning (committee) nor council yet. Staff is working very hard to try and make the process work for both the park owners and its residents,” said Coun. Roger Wade.

Successful rezoning would mean residents get one-year notice to move.

Langford council has to approve the compensation offers given to the residents before rezoning could be granted.

The City of Langford has not selected a date for application to be before council because staff is waiting for Cheeke to file all of his applications, explained Matthew Baldwin, Langford’s director of planning. charla@goldstreamgazette.com

What do you think?

Give us your comments by email: editor@goldstreamgazette.com

Langford hands out golden 10-year pins Two councillors honoured for work Charla Huber News staff

Lillian Szpak and Matt Sahlstrom earned gold pins for a decade of serving Langford city council.

Staff and council members who hit the decade mark earn longterm service award pins.

“I think it’s been a real privilege to serve on this council,” said Szpak. “When I first started it was a real sharp learning curve.”

Szpak said she knew the pin would come but it was a still a

surprise to be honoured with the pin she will wear to council meeting and other special council functions.

“I am deeply touched by it, I value it,” she said.

Sahlstrom is also pleased to have earned the coveted pin and is proud of Langford.

Not only is he raising his family here, he grew up in the Thetis Heights neighbourhood.

“Being on council I have learned that things don’t happen over night, but in Langford things do happen,” Sahlstrom said. “I am happy to have helped build Langford into what it is today.”

Both were elected in 2002. charla@goldstreamgazette.com

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Friday, December 20, 2013 - GOLDSTREAM

NEWS GAZETTE

www.vicnews.com • A5

GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE - Friday, December 20, 2013

The gift of low rates, all year long.

Wishing you all a very safe and festive holiday season.

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Rita Perren, director of 55+ Juan de Fuca Seniors Activity Centre, is pleased volunteers raised enough money, topped off by the City of Colwood, for a new bus.

City backs seniors bus Charla Huber News staff

Juan de Fuca seniors are always on the go and soon they’ll travel in a new ride.

The City of Colwood guaranteed the 55+ Juan de Fuca Seniors Activity Centre up to $22,000 toward a bus.

“I don’t want to take the whole $22,000 if we don’t need it all,” said Rita Perren, the centre’s director and fundraising chair.

The five-member executive will meet in the next few weeks to add up current donations and determine exactly how much more is needed.

“We want to provide them

with the opportunity to go and purchase a new bus,” said Mayor Carol Hamilton.

The seniors group applied for a $5,000 grant this year, but Hamilton explained the centre spends about $4,000 on maintenance each year on the current bus. With a new one, they would spend significantly less on annual maintenance.

The centre has been fundraising for new wheels with the last

Did you know? n The 55+ Juan de Fuca Seniors Activity Centre has more than 12,000 members.

reported amount needed was $22,0000. Colwood approved giving the centre that amount if the centre does not apply for any other grants through council for the next five years.

The money came from funds Colwood was reimbursed after overpaying for policing.

The centre plans to buy a new Suburban bus, being sold to the seniors at cost. Its retail value is more than $130,000. The new bus will seat 24 people, six more than the previous bus.

The seniors centre is still collecting donations for the new bus and hopes to sell the old one. For more information call 250-474-8618. charla@goldstreamgazette.com

UVic faculty clears hurdle to union vote Kyle Slavin News staff

For the first time in the University of Victoria’s 50 year history and in the wake of a successful certification drive, professors and librarians will have a chance to form a union.

Jason Price, vice-president of the UVic Faculty Association, announced last week that more than 45 per cent of its 850 members signed the necessary membership cards.

“I can’t help but think of the historic significance of this,” he said, referring to former unionization attempts made by the association in 1988, 1999 and 2008. “It makes sense that it took 25 years to make a decision because it’s an important one.”

Price said faculty members seeking unionization isn’t about salaries. Currently, as an association, they don’t have the power to grieve issues such as working conditions, tenure and longterm disability during contract negotiations with the university.

The next step is to file an application with the Labour Relations Board, which will verify that the 45 per cent threshold has been met.

“I’m sure the faculty will make the right decision, and the right decision is clear. Certification is the way forward to address issues, and it’s the only way to effectively represent our membership,” Price said. “The vast majority of our colleagues (across Canada) have moved to certification because it gives us a toolbox of legal rights.” kslavin@saanichnews.com

Boxing Day

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Please place your recyclables at the curb by 7:30 am in appropriate sized containers.

For more information, please call the CRD Hotline at 250.360.3030 or visit www.crd.bc.ca

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A6 • www.vicnews.com

Friday, December 20, 2013 - GOLDSTREAM

NEWS GAZETTE

West Shore Lions roar beyond 60 years

Service club puts community first

H

ear the West Shore Lions Club roar as it celebrates 60 years of community service.

The only thing is, President Ed Vishek and the other members of the club seem to be too busy lending a helping hand to truly be able to celebrate.

Vishek said the club is celebrating its 60th anniversary in modest ways, which reflects the club’s general attitude about spending money on itself.

“We raise a lot of money and we give it all away,” Vishek said.

The main event saw members come together for a November dinner at the Royal Colwood Golf Club to celebrate.

“That’s our celebration. Low key,” Kyle Wells Vishek said. “We put efforts into the Reporting community, not ourselves.”

The club started as the Langford and District Lions Club in October of 1953. About 20 years later, the name changed to South Van Isle Lions Club. The Metchosin Lions Club started up, with sponsorship from the Langford-based club, about 25 years ago.

Due to dwindling numbers, the two clubs merged in 2008 to form the West Shore Lions.

Vishek has now been a Lion for 22 years and is in his fourth term as president of the West Shore club. There are some members who have been involved for more than 40 years, Vishek said.

The Lions motto is “We serve,” with each club generally focused on a specific area of interest.

“We look after things like sight, hearing, speech, diabetes, youth outreach, international relations and environmental issues,” Vishek said. “We try and stay non-political.”

On the West Shore, they fund three $1,500 scholarships awarded to Belmont secondary school grads each year.

Money is also used to sponsor Girl Guides, Boy Scouts and all factions of the cadets. Donations are made to the

“You do what you can, when you can. I enjoy working with other people who have the same interest that I have in helping out the community.”

–Ed Vishek

Kyle Wells/News staff

West Shore Lions Club member Kurt Dogwin, left, and president Ed Vishek cook up pancakes at Colwood elelmentary school. Pancake breakfasts are just one of the many services the club provides to the community.

Goldstream Food Bank and the Christmas hamper fund.

The future effectiveness of the Lions is uncertain at this point, due again to low numbers.

“Service clubs across Canada are in trouble,” Vishek said. “We have an aging population, there’s too many other things to do for younger people and we’re having a hard time getting members.”

The average age for the club today is older than 70, Vishek said, and numbers are down to about 30 members.

At one time the club had about 50 members, but has also hit points as low as 14 members.

The right type of person to join is the person who likes to give back to the community, Vishek said.

“You do what you can, when you can,” he said. “I enjoy working with other people who have the same interest that I have in helping out the community.”

One of the club’s biggest events is the annual Christmas tree mulch at Westshore Town Centre, where the club chips trees by donations to Easter Seals Camp Shawnigan, a summer camp for children with disabilities. This holiday season the mulch will be held Jan. 4 and 5. kwells@goldstreamgazzette.com

PACIFIC CENTRE family services association

Have you heard about the new Skookum Food and Coffee? Recently opened at the West Shore Child, Youth and Family Centre 345 Wale Road, Skookum offers locally sourced, handmade snacks and quality beverages. Not only will you find ‘the best Panini ever’ according to one customer but you are supporting our youth program. This program supports local youth in building relationships, skills, self-esteem and experience, to help them for their short and long term futures.

The • • • • • • • •

Skookum Food & Coffee opening hours for winter 2014 are as follows: Tuesday, January 7th & Thursday, January 9th ~ 9:00 to 2:00pm Tuesday, January 14th & Thursday, January 16th ~ 9:00 to 2:00pm Tuesday, January 21th & Thursday, January 23rd ~ 9:00 to 2:00pm Tuesday, January 28th & Thursday, January 30th ~ 9:00 to 2:00pm Tuesday, February 4th & Thursday, February 6th ~ 9:00 to 2:00pm Tuesday, February 11th & Thursday, February 13th ~ 9:00 to 2:00pm Tuesday, February 18th & Thursday, February 20th ~ 9:00 to 2:00pm Tuesday, February 25th & Thursday, February 27th ~ 9:00 to 2:00pm

Do you need quality childcare in West Shore? PCFSA runs the REACH daycare, which is located behind Belmont High School on Jacklin Road. Not only is it well-positioned, we also offer convenient hours, the support of an early years co-ordinator and are designed particularly to cater in a non-judgmental way to young parents. They say ‘we love it here’. With a maximum of only 12 children this is a lovely and intimate day care for 0-3 year olds. REACH offers quality, inclusive childcare in a relaxed, family-style atmosphere. Contact us now for information as we currently have space available.

Remember our Affordable Counselling centre is available offering individual and couples counselling at a rate based upon ability to pay. Call us for more information.

Our services address a range of needs in the community, including counselling for youth, families and adults, creative therapies for youth and children, groups for boys, girls and women. We serve the Greater Victoria region with a dedicated focus on West Shore and Sooke communities. Please visit our website for more details: www.pacificcentrefamilyservices.org or call us on : 250 478 8357 Happy Holidays one and all – remember at this time of year especially that others in the community need all of our support.

West Shore Child,Youth and Family Centre • 345 Wale Road • 250-478-8357 • www.pacificcentrefamilyservices.org

www.vicnews.com • A7

Flu hits Island

Your Sight Is Our Vision

Christopher Sun News staff

Charla Huber/News staff

Paint party Jonathan Bourque paints the window of Turmeric Indian Cuisine with a winter scene. This is Bourque’s first year painting windows, but he’s been a designer for nearly 20 years.

Flu season is here on Vancouver Island with eight confirmed cases, seven requiring hospitalization, says Island Health.

Medical health officer Dr. Dee Hoyano said the hospitalized patients varied in age.

“The majority were hospitalized for a few days and then sent home,” Hoyano said.

“Two required intensive care unit treatment.

One young child, under age five, and one adult.”

Tests show that two cases are the H1N1 strain. Results for the other cases are expected soon. Hoyano said this year’s flu started earlier than usual. She recommends everyone to get the influenza vaccine.

“Unfortunately immunity wears over time,” Hoyano said. “We encourage people to get an influenza shot every year.”

This year’s vaccine will protect people from three types of influenzas: H1N1, H3N2 and B/Massachusetts strain.

Symptoms of influenza typically include fever, along with a cough, headache, aches, pains, fatigue and weakness. The risk of complications from influenza is greater for seniors, very young children and people with lung or heart diseases, certain chronic conditions and weakened immune systems.

Flu shots are free in B.C. for all children aged six months to five years, seniors 65 and older, pregnant women, aboriginal people and individuals with chronic health conditions, compromised immune systems, or those who work or live with individuals with a higher risk of complications from the flu.

To find the nearest flu shot clinic, call HealthLink BC at 811 or visit immunizebc. ca/clinics/flu. reporter@vicnews.com

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Penny Sakamoto Group Publisher Kevin Laird Editorial Director Christine van Reeuwyk Editor Oliver Sommer Advertising Director

Friday, December 20, 2013 - GOLDSTREAM

VIEWPOINT

NEWS GAZETTE

The Goldstream News Gazette is published every Wednesday and Friday by Black Press Ltd., 177- 777-Goldstream Ave., Victoria, B.C. V9B 2X4. Phone: 250-478--9552.

Web: www.vicnews.com

2013

CCNA BLUE RIBBON

OUR VIEW

High marks for grad strategy For many students across Greater Victoria, graduating from high school can seem an insurmountable task.

Stresses from family, substance abuse, peer pressure, poverty or learning disabilities can erode the chances a youth will graduate on time, or at all. Outcomes from this are predictable and dire, and Dogwoods are the bare minimum for most jobs higher than minimum wage.

For the past decade, the Greater Victoria School District has recognized that with a specific grade structure, and a focused effort, it could boost what was a truly lousy graduation rate (called the completion rate) of less than 70 per cent. For 2012-13 it hit an all-time high of 84.5 per cent.

There is no magic formula, and SD61 has seen declines along the way, but it has recognized that traditional approaches of punishment and threats are no longer seen as useful tools to get a student to change bad habits.

Educators and administrators now strive to find the root of students’ problems and challenges. Teachers can’t force kids to go to school, but they can give them resources and strategies to change bad situations and realize what’s in their best interest.

Keeping kids coming back to the building can be key, and SD61 superintendent John Gaiptman is proud to point out that the district has made it very difficult to drop out of school.

Administrators in the district also comb databases of student attendance and achievement to gauge very early on who will be at-risk of not graduating without intervention and monitoring.

Other school districts and educators in the region work hard to have their students graduate on time, but they might want to look at what SD61 is doing differently.

Other than Greater Victoria, completion rates in the other local school districts remains below the provincial average of 83.6 per cent. Sooke district hit 73.3 for 2012-13 and Saanich district 69.7.

Of course, any number below 100 per cent means kids are entering society without a basic education, and all school districts are still far from that ideal.

The News Gazette is a member of the British Columbia Press Council, a self-regulatory body governing the province’s newspaper industry. The council considers complaints from the public about the conduct of member newspapers. If talking with the editor does not resolve your complaint about coverage or story treatment, contact the B.C. Press Council. Your written concern, with documentation, should be sent to B.C. Press Council, 201 Selby St., Nanaimo, B.C. V9R 2R2. For information, phone 888-687-2213 or go to www.bcpresscouncil.org.

Question

of the week

?

YOUR VIEW

Hydro cost analysis no simple matter Re: Hydro complaints off the mark (Letters, Dec. 13) As for Joe Sawchuk’s letter on Ms. McFadyen’s “shooting from the hip” with her comments on B.C. Hydro’s rate increase, I would suggest this might be a case of the pot calling the kettle black.

To get a meaningful understanding of the validity of rate increases, one would need to do an in-depth financial analysis of costs over a number of years, compare this with other jurisdictions and see what corrective action could be taken.

It’s not enough to simply state that we have the third-lowest costs in the country and should therefore be thankful.

As a cost and management accountant, if I established that costs in my corporation were 41 per cent and 23 per cent higher than two seemingly comparable companies, as he states is the case with B.C. Hydro over Quebec and Manitoba, and that a nine-per-cent price increase was being planned when inflation is running at 2.4 per cent, I would want meaningful answers from management.

I would also inquire as to the practice of reserve accumulation for funding development to avoid or minimize this being met by price hikes, which should be limited to covering inflation and minimized by aggressive cost-reduction programs.

James McMillan Victoria

Will you be spending time with family and/or friends on Christmas Day? Answer online at www.vicnews.com

Sewage treatment plan perfect premise for movie Someday, there will be a movie made about Victoria’s sewage treatment plant. It will be a comedy that ends as a disaster. The working title will be: “Just Following Orders.”

The premise: A group of politicians are given $1 billion to build a state-of-the-art treatment facility. They follow an outdated blueprint that is a financial and environmental disaster. Due to climate change, the facility ends up below sea level. Presently, for those who can’t wait for the movie, this performance is ongoing in a Capital Regional District theatre near you.

Art Bickerton Saanich

Create a better welcome to Butchart Gardens Central Saanich has a small stretch of roadway down which one million visitors annually are attracted to one of the most beautiful gardens on the planet.

The narrow roadway, Benvenuto Drive, is lined with half-dead trees and made up of cracked and heaved cement slabs. Unfamiliar drivers careen down the curved steep hill at teeth-jarring, dangerous speeds.

Cyclists and pedestrians wisely avoid the avenue.

A handful of years ago, local politicians commissioned a study outlining options for a major fix.

Last Week

we asked you:

Consultation and open houses followed. An acceptable costsharing arrangement between the municipality, Butchart Gardens and others proved elusive, resulting in the shelving of the entire exercise.

Are current politicians prepared to make a 2014 resolution, dust off the study and attempt another try?

Why not make the “welcome” road to Butchart Gardens as beautiful and safe as the destination?

Ron Devion Central Saanich

Resident in the dark over city’s lack of action I wonder how long we must wait before city workers replace the burnt-out bulb in the lamp standard at the entrance to Chown Place on Harriet Road? Despite repeated requests over two months, no action has been taken and this area remains in a dark and dangerous state.

This is particularly disturbing since many of the elderly residents at Chown Place have difficulty walking. I have already observed one elderly gentleman stumble on one of the darkened curbs. Must we wait until someone falls and breaks a hip or leg before a new bulb is finally put in?

Gordon Pollard Victoria ••• Let your voice be heard. Send your thoughts to editor@vicnews.com

Will the addition of more community mailboxes help people get to know their neighbours better?

100 responded YES 19% NO 66% MAYBE 15%

GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE - Friday, December 20, 2013

www.vicnews.com • A9

We’ve put our sink on a fat-free diet.

That’s because, around here, we know that all drains lead to the ocean.

So we never flush fats, oils or grease from cooking or leftovers down our drains with hot water. Instead, we save energy and water by putting them in a sealable container, refrigerate them until they become solid and discard them with our household waste. It’s a good feeling to know that we’re helping to keep our marine habitats healthy.

Charla Huber/News staff

Visit www.crd.bc.ca/cleanwater to learn more.

Jack Hembruff, 6, tells Santa his Christmas wishes at Victoria General Hospital on Monday.

Santa arrived at the hospital via the B.C. Ambulance helicopter to bring cheer and gifts for children in the VGH pediatric unit. Each year about 15 kids spend Christmas at the hospital.

Santa brings cheer to VGH Charla Huber News staff

A visit by Santa added a bit of holiday cheer to the paediatric unit at Victoria General Hospital on Monday.

Santa and one of his elves caught a lift in a helicopter to VGH and made his rounds to all the rooms – some he could enter and others he could only chat at the doorway due to children in isolation rooms.

Six-year-old Jack Hembruff has been fighting an infection and it’s uncertain if he’ll spend Christmas at his North Saanich home or in the hospital.

Even though he was experiencing pain, the

Wishart students earn Pay it Forward award Colwood City council awarded 22 Wishart elementary students the Pay it Forward award Monday night.

The grades 3 and 4 students were recognized for their fundraising to help children affected by the typhoon in the Philippines.

“This just reinforces that the students want to do something for these people,” said teacher Deanna Brajcich. “Education is more than just teaching content. I would like them to experience much more than just what is coming out of the textbook.”

The students raised $6,500 through pledges and a bake sale. Colwood made a $150 donation to the cause on behalf of the student initiative.

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young boy told Santa he would really like a Super Mario costume and an Octonauts toy.

Ross Hallaway, a paramedic specializing in infant transportation, made the rounds with Santa. He said it’s wonderful to distribute gifts to the kids instead of seeing them in emergency situations.

“It’s great to see the little girls and boys get the holiday spirit,” Hallaway said.

Nineteen children were in the pediatric unit during Santa’s visit. On average about 15 children spend Christmas at VGH. The Santa visit was made possible through Helijet and B.C. Ambulance. charla@goldstreamgazette.com

www.crd.bc.ca www.crd.bc.ca

A10 • www.vicnews.com

Friday, December 20, 2013 - GOLDSTREAM

NEWS GAZETTE

Hiring climate expected to improve Seven per cent of Capital Region employers responding to research firm Manpower say they plan to hire in the first quarter of 2014, equalling the number who expect to lay off employees in the new year.

With the other 86 per cent of

respondents to the company’s Employment Outlook Survey looking to maintain staffing levels, Manpower calls the hiring climate “mild” for the upcoming few months.

With seasonal variations taken out of the data, however,

the net employment outlook of eight per cent – the per cent of firms hiring minus those laying off – is 13 points higher than last year, showing marked improvement over the start of 2013. editor@goldstreamgazette.com

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Charla Huber/News staff

Skookum start to the day

DEAL 60 Minute Kids’ Club

Nathalie Down, project co-ordinator for Skookum Food and Coffee at the West Shore Child, Youth and Family Centre plates some spanakopita at the bistro which is now open on Tuesdays and Thursdays,

promotes fitness, fun

Initiative aims to get children active, parents on same healthy page Don Fennell Black Press

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An hour a day of fitness can be made fun, especially when it is coupled with other healthy choices like eating right.

That’s the goal of the 60 Minute Kids’ Club, a fun and engaging online program designed to help get elementary school-aged children active.

The 60 Minute Kids’ Club is now looking to expand its community reach by partnering with Black Press.

“Our strong commitment to healthy communities is well-served in our partnership with the 60 Minute Kids’ Club” says Randy Blair, president of Black Press’ Lower Mainland and Vancouver Island divisions.

“The benefits of active families are so numerous, it will deliver increasingly great news”.

“We want to make (children being healthy) even more of a community effort,” says Gillian Thody, Western Canada manager of the 60 Minute Kids’ Club.

And that means engaging more parents on the importance of their children making healthy choices, while demonstrating healthy choices themselves. These include physical literacy (playing for at least 60

minutes each day), eating healthy (including five or more vegetables and fruits daily and eliminating sugar and sweetened drinks), and cutting back on computer and TV time (two hours or less).

Two 60-day challenges and one 45-day challenge are held throughout the school year, skipping over busy times and holidays.

The first challenge of the year from Oct. 1 to Dec. 1 has just wrapped up, with the second challenge set to begin Jan. 15. Schools across Canada participate at the same time. Schools can sign up for the challenge at www.60minkidsclub.org.

Each student logs in and tracks their own progress, receiving points for each log in, which aggregate under their school. This enables organizers to determine the most active kids, grades, schools, districts, regions and provinces across Canada.

The 60 Minute Kids’ Club, which is aligned with Canadian Sport for Life, originated in 2009 with Innovative Fitness, a personal training business. At that time 5,000 Kindergarten through Grade 6 students in five schools in B.C., Ontario and Nova Scotia participated in a pilot program which produced encouraging results.

In 2012, 70 schools in B.C. were involved and the program has now expanded to Alberta and Manitoba.

“We hope this year to engage 100 schools in B.C.,” says Thody.

To learn more about the 60 Minute Kids’ Club, visit www.60minkidsclub. org. editor@goldstreamgazette.com

GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE - Friday, December 20, 2013

www.vicnews.com • A11

Insurance Liability

Mustard Seed probes centralized food bank plan for Capital Region Victoria Foundation announces 2013 non-profit funding Daniel Palmer News staff

The Mustard Seed Street Church is leading a study to find out whether a centralized food bank could help deliver services and reduce replicated work.

The Mustard Seed will use a $52,300 donation, awarded by the Victoria Foundation, to explore how better co-ordination among 25 food banks and soup kitchens could improve services. An estimated 19,000 people in Greater Victoria rely on non-profit food services every year.

“All of us are so busy in our own little area, so we just don’t have enough time to go around and see what other agencies are doing,” said Jackie Cox-Zeigler, Mustard Seed administration director. “We’re going to find a way to be more collaborative

and see where that takes us.”

Cox-Zeigler and other food bank co-ordinators will meet for a second exploratory meeting on Dec. 27 at the Victoria Foundation office, she said. Organizers hope their efforts will make identifying needy residents and delivering food services more efficient.

“We really appreciate the support of the donors to the Victoria Foundation for funding this project,” Cox-Zeigler added.

Last week, the Victoria Foundation announced more than $1.1 million in funding to various non-profit groups across Vancouver Island. Funding grants from the foundation now total $12.3 million in 2013.

“Our region is so fortunate to have such an amazing array of dedicated people working and volunteering in these organizations and we’re thrilled to be able to help support such a fantastic variety of projects,” said Sandra Richardson, Victoria Foundation CEO. Grants range from $4,000 to buy canes for the visionimpaired through the Canadian National Institute for the Blind in Victoria to $55,000 for Lifecycles Project Society, whose

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members are expanding community food networks and linking backyard farmers to food banks and low-income residents.

Arts and cultural organizations feature heavily on Victoria Foundation’s donation list, including Theatre SKAM Association ($31,120), to produce a new play that highlights the life of Victoria resident Joan Mans.

The Victoria Conservatory of Music is also receiving $41,500 to expand a community-wide music library and resource centre in collaboration with School District 61.

Other local organizations receiving funding include the Capital Region Prostate Centre ($20,000), the Community Social Planning Council of Greater Victoria ($33,000) and Our Place Society ($35,000).

Established in 1936, the Victoria Foundation manages charitable gifts from donors to create permanent, income-earning funds. The proceeds from those funds are then distributed as grants for charitable or educational purposes.

For a full list of donor recipients, visit victoriafoundation.ca. dpalmer@vicnews.com

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A12 • www.vicnews.com

Friday, December 20, 2013 - GOLDSTREAM

Shop.Stay.

Support.

There’s a place for you at

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a o Lc l CHRISTMAS SERVICES 2013

LIGHTHOUSE

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The Miracle Unfolds Christmas Eve A Folksy Christmas at 6 p.m.

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We are now Accepting Winter Registrations

www.vicnews.com • A13

Shop.Stay.

Support.

c

family at Lighthouse Academy of Dance

Time for family and friends

GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE - Friday, December 20, 2013

CHRISTMAS EVE SERVICE December 24th 11:00 pm St. Mary the Virgin

December 24th: 7:00 p.m.

Christmas Eve:

“The Sounds of Christmas”– a chance for all ages to become part of the Christmas story

NEWS GAZETTE

Tumbler on it’s own $6.50 (+

+TAX

tax)

www.westshorerecreation.ca | 250-478-8384

Celebrate this Christmas at the

Church of the Advent in Colwood!

www.colwoodanglican.ca 250-474-3031

Visit our West Shore office

Year End Sale December 27th - 31st

Time to Groom?

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Gabriella Pakos

“Santa?! Is that you?”

“Santa?! you?”

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Looks like Donner and Dasher have taken an amorous interest to in some of the deer around here, my seriously my sleigh is now seriously under powered so...

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Sooke: 250-642-2464 Victoria/Westshore Area: 250-474-1369

Merry Christmas to the Merry the Westshore Westshore Community.

Community.

Thank you for your support in in 2013.

Thank you for your support 2012.

A12 • www.vicnews.com

Friday, December 20, 2013 - GOLDSTREAM

Shop.Stay.

Support.

There’s a place for you at

GORDON UNITED As we join in joyful celebration of the birth of JESUS.

a o Lc l CHRISTMAS SERVICES 2013

LIGHTHOUSE

CHRISTMAS EVE DROP in PAGEANT December 24th 5:30 pm St. Mary of the Incarnation

ACADEMY OF DANCE Pure, Pleasing, Positive

December 22nd:

10:15 Choir Christmas Presentation

c

December 25th:

Merry Christmas from our

Regular Classes RAD Ballet, ISTD Modern, Tap & Jazz, Hip hop, Contemporary and more.

You can find us at:

(one block from Langford City Hall)

www.gordonunitedchurch.ca

250-478-6632

Valid tow towards any West Shor W ho e Parks & Recreation registratioon, pass or sservice iincludin ding Cafe Fresh and Juan de Fuca Golf Course.

Not available for use with online registrations.

Studios: 934 Goldstream Ave, Langford, BC

250 595 8705

For more info contact

250-474-4119 All are welcome

www.lighthouseacademyofdance.com

at the Church of the Advent in Colwood Off Sooke Rd. at Mount View behind the SHELL station

The Miracle Unfolds Christmas Eve A Folksy Christmas at 6 p.m.

Special music, a visit from some New Zealand friends, a Creche and holy Eucharist

A Formal Christmas at 10 p.m.

with candlelight, communion, carol singing and a Christmas reflection.

An Intimate Celebration at 10:30 a.m.

FREE TUMB BLER

with the purchas ase of a $50 or more Gift Card, or the purchase of a 6 Month or 1 Year Membershhip Pass

Anglican Church of Canada

4125 Metchosin Road

Join us

Christmas Day

Saint Mary of the Incarnation

935 Goldstream Avenue

Glory to God in the highest heaven and on earth peace among those who are favoured

vaiilbe n ay amount Av

c

New courses Zumba, Special Needs Dance, and Adult Jazz

a o Lc l

WEST SHORE PARKS & RECREATION

CHRISTMAS DAY December 25th 11:00 am St. Mary of the Incarnation

We are now Accepting Winter Registrations

www.vicnews.com • A13

Shop.Stay.

Support.

c

family at Lighthouse Academy of Dance

Time for family and friends

GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE - Friday, December 20, 2013

CHRISTMAS EVE SERVICE December 24th 11:00 pm St. Mary the Virgin

December 24th: 7:00 p.m.

Christmas Eve:

“The Sounds of Christmas”– a chance for all ages to become part of the Christmas story

NEWS GAZETTE

Tumbler on it’s own $6.50 (+

+TAX

tax)

www.westshorerecreation.ca | 250-478-8384

Celebrate this Christmas at the

Church of the Advent in Colwood!

www.colwoodanglican.ca 250-474-3031

Visit our West Shore office

Year End Sale December 27th - 31st

Time to Groom?

Leave the mess to us!

5 OFF

$

Sue Daniels

purchase of dog or cat food 70% off All Holiday stock

Daryl Ashby

Ross Casey

Kent Deans

Nancy Vieira

Wally Gregora

Jane Johnston

From all of us at

Full Service Groom Any Sized Dog! Effective: January1- 31, 2014

10% OFF Toys 20% off Select treats with

Cheryl Ashby

Kathleen McInnis

Stacey Scharf

Plus many more in-store specials.

Pemberton Holmes West Shore we wish you a very happy & safe holiday season!

Gary McInnis

Gabriella Pakos

“Santa?! Is that you?”

“Santa?! you?”

“Ho “Ho Ho Ho Ho!, Ho!, I’m on Jacklin Road.

Looks like Donner and Dasher have taken an amorous interest to in some of the deer around here, my seriously my sleigh is now seriously under powered so...

Westshore Towing, with your truck so bright, won’t you guide my sleigh tonight?”

Pat Rogers

Jean Thorndycraft

24 HOURS A DAY 106-751 Goldstream Ave. 250-590-4460 Mon-Fri 9am-6pm, Sat 9am-5pm & Sun 11am-4pm

www.islandpetsource.ca

Mike Williams

#112-2244 Sooke Rd • Hatley Park Plaza • 250-478-9141 www.pembertonholmes.com

Sooke: 250-642-2464 Victoria/Westshore Area: 250-474-1369

Merry Christmas to the Merry the Westshore Westshore Community.

Community.

Thank you for your support in in 2013.

Thank you for your support 2012.

A14 • www.vicnews.com

A Neighborhood

Friday, December 20, 2013 - GOLDSTREAM

NEWS GAZETTE

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GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE - Friday, December 20, 2013

Updated with the latest happenings

monday’s weekend victoria’s ultimate get out guide

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ONLINE mondaymag.com

www.vicnews.com • A15

Wilde

approved

WiNTeR TAle

It’s the latest project for Weigler, a spirited purveyor of stage and its effect on the audience. He recently completed a doctorate of he magic of Christmas revisits its applied theatre at the University of Victoria. roots with moments both happy One of his research areas involved studying and heartfelt in the Will Weiglerthe nuances of stage performance to reveal directed Christmas staging of Oscar why an audience loses their preconceived Wilde’s The Selfish Giant. notions and allows themselves to be whisked Heralded as a Victorian-era away by the story. bad boy, Wilde’s Christianity “It comes down to those The Selfish inspired him to pen multiple ‘a-ha’ moments and other Giant’s shorts, each carrying a message things that make an astonishing of faith such as The Selfish moment of theatre,” Weigler themes that Giant, a perfect fit as part of said. the First Metropolitan United resonate They’re designed to hapChurch’s annual Christmas serpen about every two minutes are the vices on Dec. 23 and 24. throughout the 35-minute “The Selfish Giant’s themes connection Selfish Giant program. that resonate are the connecAdults puppeteer the chilof tion of community, sorrow and dren, part of an intergeneraloss,” Weigler said. “We know tional cast who use as much of community, these as ideas in our head, the grand First Met stage and sorrow and but to see it on stage, we can surrounding area as needed. experience it with our body There’s no enclosing Weigler, loss. (through physical emotion).” whose play From the Heart: - Will Weigler For those unfamiliar with enter into the journey of recthe simple but moving tale, a onciliation, was performed Giant returns from an extended within a labyrinth designed and absence to find children playing in his garerected at Uptown mall. den. When he tries to banish them, he finds “Physical theatre is such a visual medium he is the one who was banished, until he you want to use the entire space,” he said. experiences a merciful release from a long, Sound is woven into the show by First cold winter.

Met musical director Fran Pollet, who has The performance is loaded with physipaired the play’s hard and soft winter elecal theatre. It features original puppets ments with music. A choir of 24, a harp, a and the animated personification of the trumpet and percussion by Kelby MacNayr. story’s weather elements wind, snow and “We have 50 volunteers helping to put hail, which transcend the play as characters this on,” Pollet said. “We draw from the themselves. community for this play and it’s not just for

TrAVIS PATErSON

sports@vicnews.com

T

SUPPLIED PHOTO

Five year old Tallulah Macleod, who plays the role of the Giant, shares a moment with a puppet during the Selfish Giant. The original puppets were created for the Selfish Giant and are part of an interactive cast of children and adults who share the First Met stage with a full choir Dec. 23 - 24.

the congregation, it’s for the entire community.”

Harp playing will greet the congregation for 40 minutes before the show, which starts at 7:30pm on Dec. 23 and Dec. 24.

A word to the wise: the regular congregation often swells on Christmas Eve, filling the hall, and the church has had instances of turning away people at the door. Pollet

recommends taking in the Monday show as it has traditionally drawn less.

did you know?

The First Met granted Weigler three months of free space to develop and rehearse From the Heart which is how he came on board for The Selfish Giant.

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A16 • www.vicnews.com

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ARTS NEWS

IN BRIEF

CRD ARTS GRANTS DEADLINES NEAR

The deadlines for Capital Regional District arts development grants – for project funding for arts organizations – are fast approaching, with proposals due by Jan. 10 at 4:30pm. Idea grants, intended to support arts programming by organizations not eligible for other CRD funding programs, are due by 4:30pm on Feb. 14. Details available at crd.bc.ca/arts.

YOUTH CHOIR AUDITIONS OPEN

The School District 61 Honour Choir is holding auditions for the January 2014 school term. Any 11-to 17-year-old students in the district are invited to audition. Call 250-477-5569 to book an audition time and location, or book online at choir.sd61.bc.ca.

LAST CHANCE FOR FERRIS WHEEL RIDES

The holidays descended on the city with free horsedrawn trolley tours and ferris wheel rides downtown thanks to the Downtown Victoria Business Association and the City of Victoria in November. This is the last weekend to enjoy the festivities. Check downtownvictoria.ca for the schedule.

Friday, December 20, 2013 - GOLDSTREAM

Robert Moyes’ film reviews and listings

ONLINE mondaymag.com

NEWS GAZETTE

mon daym ag.co m

BC’S EYEWEAR HEADQUARTERS

Broken Dreams

approved

Set in Braddock, Penn., a hardscrabble town whose economic engine is a dying steel mill, Out of the Furnace is an unrelentingly bleak portrait of tough men whose blue collar lives are unraveling with a slow and harsh inevitability. At the centre of the film are the two Baze brothers: Russell (Christian Bale), the older and more responsible one, works in the mill just like his dad did; Rodney (Casey Affleck, Gone Baby Gone) was born reckless, and four brutal tours in Iraq have left him with bad dreams and a bad attitude.

With gambling debts to pay off, Rodney has taken up illegal bareknuckle boxing for a local hustler (Willem Dafoe), but he keeps getting deeper into debt because he can never play along and “lose” the fights he’s told to. Increasingly desperate, he heads north into hillbilly country for a bigger payday, only to find himself on the wrong side of Harlan DeGroat (Woody Harrelson), a drug-dealing, mean-as-a-snake degenerate. When Rodney doesn’t come home, it’s clear that something bad has happened.

But Braddock’s sheriff (Forest Whitaker) doesn’t have jurisdiction and his law enforcement counterparts upstate seem reluctant to start a feud with a valley full of vicious inbreds. Which leaves Russell and his uncle (Sam Shephard) to grab their deer rifles and see if they can set things right.

Although this sounds like the setup for a standard-issue Stallone or Schwarzenegger revenge flick, this is primarily a character-driven drama and the plot takes the audience where it isn’t really expecting to go. Slowpaced and elegiacal, Furnace spends a lot of its time showing the cost to human lives as hard times lead to hard choices. The movie lacks a bit of focus, but there are so many great performances that you likely may not notice (or care). Bale has become a multi-millionaire mumbling his way through the Batman trilogy, but he brings heartbreaking clarity to his work here as a hardworking and decent man who is slowly losing everything.

Affleck plays a reckless jerk with crazed bravado, and does a great job representing every war vet who has come back from Iraq with a head full of spiders. And then there’s Harrelson, cruel and repulsive and predatory, who is like a one-man horror movie.

Rating: ★★1/2 (Out of the Furnace continues at SilverCity) Extended review of Out of the Furnace and listings at mondaymag.com. .

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GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE - Friday, December 20, 2013

www.vicnews.com • A17

Painting

SPORTS

How to reach us

Travis Paterson 250-480-3279 sports@vicnews.com

Playing pro hockey in Sin City Grizzlies alum talks hockey in the desert Travis Paterson News staff

Brian Nugent’s holiday return is happenstance, but it keeps his streak alive.

The 24-year-old is 21 games into his pro hockey career with the Las Vegas Wranglers after wrapping up his NCAA career with the Northern Michigan Wildcats in May. With the Wildcats he was able to visit during his school holiday breaks, and because of a short break in the ECHL Wranglers’ schedule, he’s here until Boxing Day. Then it’s back to Vegas, where he lives with two teammates, one of them Geoff Irwin, a fellow Victoria product who won the 2006 RBC Cup junior A championship with the Burnaby Express.

“The experience is unbelievable, Vegas is an incredible city and I’m enjoying it so much,” Nugent said.

“We live about eight to 10 minutes from the rink. As soon as I’m out of the complex I can see the strip.”

The trick with living in Vegas is picking your spots, he says.

“There’s so much to do. It’s all business at the rink but on off days, or after practice, we take in a lot of shows.”

The temptation of Sin City is often too great for visiting teams. ECHL scheduling limits travel by grouping games into two or three per visit, meaning visiting players are there for days at a time.

Photo by IIA Photography

Brian Nugent is living the life of a pro hockey player in Las Vegas.

toria Grizzlies’ captain during the RBC Cup hosting year in 2008-09.

But Nugent only scored nine times in four years of Div. 1 play in the NCAA’s Western Collegiate Hockey Association conference.

He’s hoping his two-way game will be appreciated by the many American Hockey League scouts who constantly comb the ECHL for undiscovered talent beyond goal scoring.

“Obviously there’s still a system to follow in the ECHL defensive and neutral zones. But in the offensive zone the Wranglers coaches tell us to be creative. In college, anywhere

“We usually figure in the (two- to three-game) series at least one of the games the other team should be hung over, guys have a tough time with that,” Nugent laughs.

As much fun as it is there is a desire to move up. Nugent’s not sweating the fact his offence is dry with only a goal and two assists so far.

“I’m an energy type player and I think the ECHL definitely suits my style of play more than the NCAA,” Nugent said.

Back in junior he contributed 52 points in 53 games as the Vic-

Say Thanks to your community newspaper carrier We get many calls from readers who want to reward their carrier.

on the ice you were a robot and you were doing exactly what you were told to do.”

To be fair Nugent is happy with his time on the Wildcats. He’s chasing a pro career with the comfort of having his bachelor’s degree in business and marketing.

He is following a very similar to another pro player from Victoria, Adam Cracknell of the St. Louis Blues.

Cracknell and Nugent are alumni of the junior B Saanich Braves. Cracknell played for the Wranglers in 200708 and one of his teammates was Make Madill, the Wranglers current head coach and general manager.

“Cracknell let (Madill) know about me and that’s how it all got started.

Basically I have Cracknell to thank,” Nugent said.

One of the reasons Nugent was keen on the Wranglers is because it is without an AHL affiliation.

“Any AHL team can pick up players from the Wranglers, it doesn’t limit me to one AHL team,” he said.

Nugent saw what happened to everyday Salmon Kings players when its parent affiliates, the Vancouver Canucks and Manitoba Moose (AHL), assigned players to Victoria.

“No one can get sent here from the AHL and take your job. When your’e on an affiliate team, it doesn’t matter if you’re playing better than the player assigned to your team.

They’re going to get your ice time because they’re signed to an AHL or NHL team,” he said.

In the meantime, it’s a pretty good life in Las Vegas. sports@vicnews.com

Royals avenge Oil Kings, hit break on a roll It's been a different Victoria Royals team ever since it suffered a 5-0 loss to the Edmonton Oil Kings at home in Victoria on Nov. 6.

Ever since the embarrassing blowout at home, the Royals have gone 13-3-1, including a 5-3 win over the Oil Kings in Edmonton on Tuesday. The Oil Kings scored first but the Royals soon tied it when 16-year-old rookie Matt Dykstra, an Edmonton native, scored his first WHL goal in his hometown, in just his third WHL game. Then came Royals goals from Axel Blomqvist, Ben Walker and Jack Palmer to make it 4-1, just a minute into the second period. Brandon Magee scored an empty-netter in the final minute of the game.

Victoria’s Dyson Mayo, a promising 17-year-old defenceman, scored for the Oil Kings.

The Royals host the Prince George Cougars for two games, Dec. 27 and 28 at SaveOn-Foods Memorial Centre. sports@vicnews.com

ULTIMATE 12 Days ULTIMATE of HOLIDAY Holidays HOLIDAY GIFT GUIDE GIFT GUIDE at

sponsored by sponsored by

Here are some tips: • Gift cards are a good option.

• Leave a greeting card or envelope in a secure spot your carrier will see.

• Mark it: Black Press carrier Black Press cannot give out the names of our delivery people, but we can forward a tip on your behalf. Drop off an envelope to our office at 818 Broughton Street or at 777 Goldstream Avenue with your name and address clearly marked and we’ll forward it to the your carrier.

Any questions call 250-360-0817 or email: distribution@vicnews.com

Unwrap a new offer every day!

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A18 • www.vicnews.com

Friday, December 20, 2013 - GOLDSTREAM

NEWS GAZETTE

LOCAL DIN I NG JAMES Drop by the JBI Pub and BAY INN Restaurant and enjoy a THE

An Invitation Breakfast, Lunch, or From an Old Friend Dinner Entrée

Take Out or Eat In Menu Daily Lunch & Dinner Buffet

Combination Dinners for 1 to 8 Seafood and Deluxe Dishes Licenced Premises Open 11 a.m.- 10 p.m. daily Free Home Delivery with min. $20 order

Present this coupon when you buy dinner or lunch and get a second of equal of lesser falue FOR ONLY $2.00. This coupon may only be used with a minimum of two beverages (need not be alcholic). Present coupon at time of ordering.

Cannot be combined with any other offer. Maximum 3 coupons per group or table.

Not valid at JBI Pub on Sundays between 3:30-8:00pm. EXPIRES DECEMBER 31, 2013

P

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urple Garden

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Take Our Menu on www.purplegarden.ca Closed on Tuesday for Lunch

No MSG - $10.95 Lunch and $14.50 Dinner

#138-1551 Cedar Hill X Rd (Behind McDonald’s on Shelbourne St.)

250-477-8866 250-477-8820

GREATER VICTORIA

Archie Browning flourishing in new era

CRIME STOPPERS The individuals pictured here are wanted as of Dec. 18, 2013

Matthew DORAN

Stephen SOMERVILLE

• Weight: 130 lbs.

• Height: 5’5” • DOB: Aug. 28, 1961

Rachel BAILEY

Kenneth HANSONCausing

is wanted for Theft x3, Proceeds of Crime, Possession of Stolen Property, Fail to Comply, and Fail to Appear x3 • Weight: 133 lbs.

• Height: 5’4” • DOB: May 4, 1975

Roberto ANTONELLO

is wanted for Assault, Violate Recognizance and Fail to Appear.

• Weight: 181 lbs.

• Height: 5’9” • DOB: April 18, 1971

F Christopher NEUDOR of

is wanted for Breach Recognizance and Surety Withdrawal.

• Weight: 170 lbs.

• Height: 5’9” • DOB: Feb. 16, 1981

HELP SOLVE

Travis Paterson News staff

is wanted for Assault with a Weapon and Possess Weapon.

is wanted for B&E x2, Possession of Stolen Property, Possession of B&E Tools.

• Weight: 181 lbs.

• Height: 6’ • DOB: July 8, 1984

Sharon Tiffin/News staff

Nine-year-old speed skater Kyle Brown takes to the ice demonstrating his skill at Archie Browning Sports Centre between periods of the Victoria Cougars junior B game versus the Westshore Wolves. It was fitting the Cougars were host to the Westshore Wolves as the Cougars were nearly forced to move to the West Shore in 2007 when Esquimalt announced it would close Archie Browning for good.

Fans at the Victoria Cougars home game on Sunday were treated an expo of speed skating races by junior members of the Esquimalt Speed Skating Club.

The co-tenants of the Archie Browning Sports Centre showed their speedy discipline during the first period intermission of the Cougars’ Vancouver Island Junior Hockey League game.

There were plenty of highlights in less than 10 minutes of racing, including a triple wipeout as all three skaters from one of the faster races slid into the wall padding. Perhaps most impressive was the efficiency with which the senior speed skating members and Cougars players set up the pads on the

is wanted for Assault Bodily Harm.

• Weight: 188 lbs.

• Height: 5’9” • DOB: March 15, 1983

Peter WARENKO and is wanted for Theft x3 Breach of Undertaking.

• Weight: 175 lbs.

• Height: 6’2” • DOB: July 16, 1990

Matthew GIBSON

is wanted for Assault x2, Obstruct PO, Carry/Use/Threaten to Use a Weapon and Assault with Intent to Resist.

• Weight: 201 lbs.

• Height: 6’3” • DOB: Jan. 10, 1983

boards.

“We’re always looking for more members of any age and skill level,” said longtime Esquimalt Speed Skating member and organizer Ian Phillips. “It takes a back seat in Victoria but it’s really a lot of fun, I think people don’t realize that.”

The Archie Browning arena, and it’s various users, are enjoying a new era.

There was a time when the user groups hardly mingled other than at city events such as Buccaneer Days. Then came Esquimalt’s proposed closing of the rink in the spring of 2007.

It unified the Esquimalt Curling Club, Esquimalt Figure Skating Club, Victoria Minor Hockey Association, Cougars and Esquimalt Speed Skating. They created a joint task force, which Cougars president Gary Boyer

headed, and overturned that decision within months.

“That ‘proposed’ closing prompted a reaction from us and we’ve all kept a pretty strong partnership here at Archie Browning,” Boyer said.

The rink has undergone considerable renovations and updates.

“This was going to be what, a parking lot and commercial building?” Boyer said. “We’re very grateful for this facility and for the other members here. We don’t forget that.”

Case in point, to start the 2012-13 season, the speed skaters bumped their Thursday night start time 30 minutes earlier to accomodate the Cougars, so the team could have a more family-friendly 7 p.m. face off for it’s weekly home games. sports@vicnews.com

Bulldogs, Rams football players on Team B.C.

Armed bank robbery

Four players from the Mount Douglas Rams and two more from the Belmont Bulldogs have been named to the prestigious U-18 Team B.C. team that will play two games in the upcoming Football University International Showcase in Texas.

Representing the Belmont Bulldogs are Tristin Fourish as an offensive lineman and Sam Varao as a linebacker. From the AAA B.C. champion Mount Douglas Rams are Nicholas James as a defensive lineman, Sheldon Mack as a linebacker, Aarmin

On Nov. 20 at approximately 2 p.m., the CIBC at 2224 Oak Bay Ave. was robbed by a lone male with a handgun.

He is described as a Caucasian man, 25 to 20 years, 5’11” to 6’, 180 to 190 lbs, with a thin to medium build. He wore a grey hoodie, jeans, black runners, and a scarf/bandana covering his face. He carried a blue Adidas bag.

Purewal as an offensive lineman and Julian Luis as a running back.

Alexis Sanschagrin of Belmont will act as the defensive backs coach and Mark Townsend of Mount Doug will take on the running backs and special teams coaching jobs.

B.C. plays Texas East at Heroes Stadium on Wednesday, Jan. 1 and Team Europe on Saturday, Jan. 4 in the Alamodome. sports@vicnews.com

Capital Regional District

Hartland Landfill

“Your raw pet food destination”

Christmas Day & Boxing Day Closure

Come see our large & growing Raw Food selection or call for local delivery.

3202B Happy Valley Road, Victoria (At Sooke Road) 250-391-4475 www.growlies.ca Facebook.com/Growlies

@Growlies

The Hartland Landfill Facility will be closed on Christmas Day, Wednesday, December 25 and Boxing Day, Thursday, December 26, 2013.

Hartland will reopen on Friday, December 27 from 9 am to 5 pm.

Registered account customers will have access to the active face from 7 to 9 am.

For more information, please call the CRD Hotline at 250.360.3030 or visit www.crd.bc.ca/waste/hartland

Please make sure your load is covered and secured.

GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE December Goldstream News Gazette Fri,- Friday, Dec 20, 2013 20, 2013

www.vicnews.com •A19 A19 www.goldstreamgazette.com

Your community. Your classifieds.

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COMMUNITY ANNOUNCEMENTS

COMMUNITY ANNOUNCEMENTS

CHRISTMAS CORNER

LEGALS

CHRISTMAS TREES 2’ to 30’ * 15 varieties Wreaths * Greens * Swags * Holly * Cones Direct from Grower Free Hot Apple Cider Tons of Fun! Available Nov. 29 to Dec. 24 SAANICHTON CHRISTMAS TREE FARM U Cut 9am-4pm & Pre-Cut 9am-9pm 8231 East Saanich Rd 250 652-3345 WOODSTOCK EVERGREENS Pre-cut only 6999 W. Saanich Rd, Brentwood Bay 10 am to 9 pm 250 652-3228 NEW LOCATION off Sooke Lake Rd - turn off Malahat at South Shawnigan Lake Rd and follow signs. U-cut 9am-5pm

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INFORMATION ADVERTISE in the LARGEST OUTDOOR PUBLICATION IN BC The 2014-2016 BC Hunting Regulations Synopsis

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PERSONALS REAL PEOPLE, Real Chat, Real Discreet Try FREE! 18+.

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LOST AND FOUND LOST: 3 oval framed pictures.

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LOST SILVER hooped earring, Costco area. Valued keepsake! If found please call (250)388-7568.

CLASSIFIED ADS WORK! Call 250.388.3535

AUCTION SALE Notice is hereby given by West Coast Super Storage Ltd, 3220 Otter Point Rd, Sooke, BC, V9Z 0K8 that the following item(s) will be open for bids between 9am-12pm on January 4th, 2014 on the premises to cover costs incurred. Only CASH accepted.

Barry Shaw - 1980 22’ blue + white boat.

Gabriel Heron ENC7080A (Household Goods).

CHILDREN DAYCARE CENTERS HILLTOP FRIENDS LICENSED

FAMILY DAYCARE Has full-time spot open NOW! LPN owned and operated Located in Colwood on Triangle Mountain, just off Sooke Road. 6:30am-5pm, Monday -Friday.

Call Chrissie @ 778-433-2056

HELP WANTED

SALES

GENERAL LABOURERS

COSMETIC SALES PERSON for Outdoor Cart at Up Town Mall, shift work, $12/hr. Apply to mirjam@telus.net

OIL & GAS INDUSTRY GUARANTEED Job Placement

• Labourers • Tradesmen • Class 1 Drivers

Call 24Hr. Free Recorded Message 1-888-213-2854 THE LEMARE GROUP is accepting resumes for the following positions: •Heavy Duty Mechanics •Feller Buncher •Boom man •Chasers •Hooktenders •Grapple Yarder Operators •Off Highway Logging Truck Drivers •Hydraulic Log Loader Operators •Processor Operators •Hand Buckers •Coastal Certified Hand Fallers Fulltime camp with union rates/benefits.

Please send resumes by fax to 250-956-4888 or email to office@lemare.ca.

HOTEL, RESTAURANT, FOOD WANTED F/T Cook at SUSHI DEN Rest. 609 Abbott St. Vancouver. 2 yrs. exp., high school diploma. wage: $2240/mth. 40hrs/wk. Apply: sushiden94@gmail.com duties: cook Japanese meal, plan menu, create item. Staff training.

OFFICE SUPPORT CLERK

INTERIOR HEAVY EQUIPMENT OPERATOR SCHOOL. NO Simulators. In-the-seat training. Real world tasks.

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EVENCE Ltd is a furniture supply company and we are looking for an administrative assistant for our busy office. This position requires strong organizational skills, attention to detail and good interpersonal skills.

Duties include but are not limited to data entry, reception and production administration. The Successful candidate will: -Have strong analytical and communication skills, -Be a self-starter who is able to work with minimal supervision, -Have a sound knowledge of MS Office (Excel, Word, Outlook) Candidates with more than 2 years experience will be given preference.Salary is very attractive with other benefits attached. Please forward resume and cover letter to tass@offurntre.com for consideration.

WORKLINK is offering a Job Search program with a training allowance for eligible Non EI adults living in Westshore or Sooke areas; 6wk in class program starts Jan 20. For information call 250-478-9525.

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EDUCATION/TRADE SCHOOLS

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Can sell separately. Best offer.

Come & see! (250)592-1690.

RETOUCH, RESTORE, Edit Photos. Home Movies to DVD. Also, Portraiture, Baby, Family + Maternity.

250-475-3332. www.cwpics.com

NEWSPRINT ROLLENDS$2-$10. Fridays only, 8:30am to 4:30pm. #200-770 Enterprise Cres, Victoria. Goldstream Press Division.

VOLUNTEERS

EDUCATION/TRADE SCHOOLS

EMPLOYMENT AGENCIES/ RESUMES

PERSONAL SERVICES

PROFESSIONAL/ MANAGEMENT

BC FAMILIES in Transition needs weekly front desk attendants with computer skills to receive phone calls, greet visitors, and connect staff to clients. Inquiries may be complex, so ability to think quickly is preferred. Training provided.

Website Developer also needed. Call Volunteer Victoria at 250-386-2269.

THE ACTION Committee of People with Disabilities requires a positive, friendly receptionist to greet clients and answer phones, half day per week.

Other positions available. Call Volunteer Victoria at 250-386-2269.

THE LEUKEMIA & Lymphoma Society needs a variety of volunteers beginning in January to organize the October 2014 Light The Night Walk, including entertainment, outreach, communications, and volunteer recruitment. Positions require about 3 to 8 hours per month. Call Volunteer Victoria at 250-386-2269

PERSONAL SERVICES MIND BODY & SPIRIT Kripalu full body massage.

Release your stress now. Over 13 years experience. Gift Certificates. Women only. Holiday special. Professional. 250-514 -6223, www.andreakober.com

The Trager Approach

is an Innovative, Gentle and Therapeutic Bodywork that Reduces Pain & Tension and supports Balance and Presence in a Relaxed Body.

Rae Bilash CertiďŹ ed Trager Practitioner call for appointment 250-380-8733 www.raebilash.ca * Also Hot Stone Massage

CAD Tech wanted for office in Saanich. 3-5 Yrs Exp. Ph. 250-472-6300 www.teccana.com

CLASSIFIED ADS MEAN MORE BUSINESS

EDUCATION/TRADE SCHOOLS

EDUCATION/TRADE SCHOOLS

250.388.3535

MERCHANDISE FOR SALE BURIAL PLOTS 2 ADULT interment spaces at Hatley Memorial Gardens.

Lots 215 & 216 in Colwood G. $4900. 1(520)825-1773.

FRIENDLY FRANK

PENTAX CAMERA with 3 lenses and flash, good cond. 4 Michelin 17� snow tires, used 2 seasons. (250)479-5208.

WASHER/DRYER Frigidaire white, 8 cycle HD, $550.

(778)351-3349.

MISCELLANEOUS WANTED

COMPUTER System 2.4 GHZ 256MBRAM 40gbHD, monitor & speakers$50. 250-479-1101

ANTIQUES, BOOKS, collectibles, furniture, china, jewelry. Estates/private libraries purchased. Galleon Books & Antiques, 250-655-0700

FUEL/FIREWOOD

MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS

ARBUTUS, CYPRESS, fir, hardwoods. Seasoned. Call 250-661-7391.

STEINWAY- BOSTON Studio Grand, model 178, ebony, 6 years, immaculate, references.

Home studio professional quality. Custom cover included. $15,000. Serious enquiries only please (250)594-5072.

GREAT DEAL FIREWOOD. Winter Special. Split & Delivered. Call 250-881-4842.

MISCELLANEOUS FOR SALE FIGURINES: ROYAL Doulton, Coalport, Armani, Mrs. Albee, & misc artists - some very old, some more recent editions.

Call (250)474-2774.

HOT TUB (SPA) COVERS. Best price. Best quality. All shapes & colours available.

1-866-652-6837 www.thecoverguy.com/ newspaper?

EDUCATION/TRADE SCHOOLS

ALL YOU NEED IN PRINT AND ONLINE

www. bcclassiďŹ ed.com

250-388-3535 EDUCATION/TRADE SCHOOLS

MEDICAL OFFICE ASSISTANT Join a profession that supports and cares for our community.

Medical and dental office clerks and transcriptionists are always in high demand. In addition to basic administrative and bookkeeping skills, you will also learn standard medical terminology.

Career Opportunities: Medical Office Assistant O Dental Office Assistant Medical Transcriptionist MSP Billing Clerk O Ward Secretary Pharmaceutical Firms O Medical Supply Firms Medical Clerical in Research & Care Agencies

110 -

CALL VICTORIA: 250.384.8121 OR VISIT SPROTTSHAW.COM

A20 •www.goldstreamgazette.com www.vicnews.com A20

Friday, December 2013 - GOLDSTREAM Fri, Dec20, 20, 2013, GoldstreamNEWS News GAZETTE Gazette

REAL ESTATE

REAL ESTATE

REAL ESTATE

RENTALS

RENTALS

TRANSPORTATION

TRANSPORTATION

ACREAGE

FOR SALE BY OWNER

MOBILE HOMES & PARKS

APARTMENT/CONDO

SUITES, LOWER

AUTO FINANCING

TRUCKS & VANS

MOUNTAIN Chic Condo at Bear Mountain. 2 bedroom plus den unit offering just over 1200 sq ft of fine living. Granite countertops, stainless steel appliances and beautiful wood flooring.

Large Deck Amenities include culinary lounge, private theatre, fitness room, squash & tennis courts, & overlooks golf course! Tanya to view at Cornerstone Properties 250 475 2005 ext 235

LANGFORD, NICE 1 bdrm level entry bsmt, fully reno’d, N/P, utils incl’d. Jan. 1st. $750. mo. Call 250-658-3676.

1990 TOYOTA 4x4. Extended cab, V6, 5-spd. 227,000 km.

White, great truck! $6500. Call (250)479-3680.

NORTH NANAIMO: Attention Students/Working Professionals: semi-furn private suite.

New floors & paint. Shared lndry. FREE hydro & cable.

N/S, No Partiers. $800/mo.

Dec. 15th. 250-756-9746

MARINE

LADYSMITH HANDYMAN Special. 3bdrms up, lrg LR, double garage, lrg storage.

Ocean & city view. 1bdrm suite down. Owner will carry mortgage. $1200 month; or rent for $1,800 month.

(250)753-0160.

OTTER POINT RV Trailer Park. 40’ park model trailer (no pad fees) 3 slide outs + 30’x52’ lot, finished deck & shed in new cond. Reduced to $117,900. obo. Owner willing to look at financing. Call (306)290-8764.

Beautiful 2 acre South Island property, homes and garden $715,000 www.CobbleHillHome4Sale.com

250 743 9882

NANAIMO 3 HOUSES. Gorgeous Ocean & City views.

Easy to buy. Reasonable Down! Owner will carry mortgage. 250-753-0160

APARTMENT/CONDOS NANAIMO WATERFRONT 2nd floor condo. 1500 sq.ft.

LR/DR/2bdrms with view, den, gas FP, secure bldg. 2 underground parking spaces. Maintenance fee includes hot water/gas/landscaping. 1 pet OK. $339,900 (250)753-9123

DUPLEX/4-PLEX OPEN HOUSE- Sat & Sun, every weekend, 1-4pm. New Duplex’s For Sale, Duncan, BC at 5909 & 5911 Stone Haven Rd, in Stone Manor Estate’s (behind Hospital).

1850sq ft each, 3 bdrms, 4 bath, 5 appls and much more. $309,000.

Call Gord (250)710-1947

SAANICH WEST- 1246 Hastings St, 3 bdrm Rancher, 2 garage, dining/living/family rooms, 2 bath (ensuite), F/P, appls incld, new roof. Walking distance to Interurban campus. Reduced price, $460,000.

Call 250-477-4600.

- BUYING - RENTING - SELLING -

RENTALS APARTMENT/CONDO 1 & 2 Bdrm suites & cabins.

Perched on a cliffside with panoramic ocean vista, overlooking The Saanich Inlet. Serene & secure. All amenities on-site, firewood. $500-$1200 inclds utils.

Monthly/Weekly.

Pets ok with refs. 25 min commute to downtown Victoria.

Must have references! Call 250-478-9231.

GORGE- 1 bdrm condo, laundry on site, NS/NP. $750.

Avail now. (250)882-2330.

COTTAGES METCHOSIN- 1 bdrm coach house. $750./mo includes cable, W/D. Utils not included.

NS/NP. Available Feb 1. Call (250)478-8438.

WATERFRONT. NORTH Saanich. Large 2-bdrm, 2 bath. $1800./mo inclds utils. Possibly small boat moorage +.

Pet OK. N/S. (250)656-5999.

TRANSPORTATION ANTIQUE/CLASSICS

MOBILE HOMES & PADS

AIRPORT: 1 bdrm bachelor new windows, curtains, flooring, paint. Private door, yard.

Parking. $820/mo all util’s incld’d. NS/NP, Jan. 1. Call (250)656-9910.

SUNWAY BOAT TOPS- Now located in the Western communities. Call Murray Southern at 250-744-0363 or Email: sunway@telus.net

AUTO SERVICES

SELL IT FAST WITH CLASSIFIEDS!

$$$ TOP CA$H PAID $$$. For ALL unwanted Vehicles, any condition. Call (250)885-1427.

250.388.3535

There’s more online

LOT FOR Rent vacant mobile home pad. SL Home Park.

Call 250-743-7535.

SUITES, LOWER

BOATS

1966 CHEVY Pick up, 1/2 ton short box, burgundy. 3 in the tree, 6 cylinder. Good condition, runs great, comes with second set of winter tires and rims. Second owner for last 45 years, in Victoria. $6,000 obo.

Call: 250-479-0441 or email: havoc@telus.net

fil

For more stories here please and web exclusives visit vicnews.com

SERVICE DIRECTORY bcclassified.com

BUYING - RENTING- SELLING 250.388.3535

HARRIET/UPTOWN- fully furnished 3 bdrm, reno’d, 4 appls, bus route, NS/NP. $1500 inclusive. W/D. 250-480-0849.

WE’RE ON THE WEB

#OMPLETEåGUIDEåTOåPROFESSIONALåSERVICESåINåYOURåCOMMUNITY

www.bcclassified.com

250.388.3535

HOME/BUSINESS SERVICES

HOME/BUSINESS SERVICES

HOME/BUSINESS SERVICES

HOME/BUSINESS SERVICES

HOME/BUSINESS SERVICES

HOME/BUSINESS SERVICES

HOME/BUSINESS SERVICES

ACCOUNTING/TAX/ BOOKKEEPING

ELECTRICAL

GARDENING

HANDYPERSONS

HAULING AND SALVAGE

MOVING & STORAGE

PLUMBING

ACCOUNTING Vida Samimi

GNC ELECTRIC Res/Comm.

Reasonable rates for quality work. #43619. 250-883-7632.

GARDEN OVERGROWN? Weeding, lawn cuts, cleanups, pruning.

John Kaiser 250-478-7314, 250-812-8236.

WESTSHORE HANDYMAN SERVICES- Electrical, plumbing, carpentry, drywall repairs, haul-aways, clean-ups. Senior discount. Bob, 250-818-3529.

PARRY’S HAULING We haul it all - FREE estimates. Call Shawn 250-812-7774

2 BURLEY MEN MOVING. $85/hr for 2 men (no before or after travel time charges on local moves. Please call Scott or Joshua, (250)686-6507.

EXPERIENCED JOURNEYMAN Plumber. Renos, New Construction & Service. Fair rates. Insured.

Reliable, friendly. Great references. Call Mike at KNA (250)880-0104.

Certified General Accountant Bookkeeping, Audit, Payroll, HST. Set up & Training. E-File

KENDRA’S ELECTRICAL Co. #86952. No Job too Small.

Kendra, 250-415-7991.

TAX

FENCING

CARPENTRY

ALL TYPES of fencing, repairs. Reliable, on-time. Free estimates. Call 250-888-8637.

250-477-4601

BENOIT CONSTRUCTION. Reno’s & Additions. Windows, Doors, Decks. 250-479-0748.

CARPET INSTALLATION

HI! NEED help cleaning your house. Call Me! 250-478-8940 HOUSEKEEPER EXPERIENCED, reliable. References.

250-920-6516, 250-881-7444.

ELECTRICAL 250-361-6193 Quality Electric Reno’s, res & comm. No job too small. Lic# 22779.

AT&T ELECTRIC. Renovations. Residential & Commercial. Knob & tube replacement. #26125. (250)744-4550.

$20 & Up Garbage & Garden waste removal. Senior Disc.

Free estimates. 250-812-2279.

HOME IMPROVEMENTS

GARDENING

CLEAN-UP SPECIAL. You load bins, size 12 yard $100 plus dump fee or we do it all.

Call 250-361-6164.

CARPENTRY, DRYWALL, kitchen/bath, wood floors, tiles, plumbing, renos 250-213-6877

10% OFF! Fall Cleanups, Raking, Pruning, Hauling, Mowing. (250)479-6495.

FAMILY MAN Hauling.

Call Chris for all your hauling needs. 250-920-8463.

INTERIOR DESIGN

CARPET, LINO installation restretches & repairs. 30 years exp. Glen, 250-474-1024.

CLEANING SERVICES

HAULING AND SALVAGE

SAVE-A-LOT HAULING Furniture, appliance, garden waste, we take it all! Always lowest rate, senior discount.

Brad 250-217-9578.

GUTTERS & DOWNSPOUTS 250-479-7950 FREE ESTIMATES • Lawn Maintenance • Landscaping • Hedge Trimming • Tree Pruning • Yard Cleanups • Gardening/Weeding • Aeration, Odd Jobs NO SURPRISES NO MESS www.hollandave.ca DPM SERVICES- lawn & garden, seasonal pruning, clean ups, landscape, power wash, etc. 15yrs exp. (250)883-8141

CLASSIFIED ADS MEAN MORE BUSINESS Call 250.388.3535

PAINTING A2Z PAINTING. Free estimates. Quality Interior Painting. Call Erin (250)294-5422.

A PROFESSIONAL Woman painter. Karen Bales Painting & Wall coverings. Over 25yrs exp. Free est. 250-514-5220.

BILL’S MASONRY. Brick, tiles, pavers. All masonry & Chimney re-pointing. F/P repairs. 250-478-0186.

ABBA EXTERIORS Gutter cleaning & repairs. Seniors discounts. WCB, Insured. Free estimates. (778)433-9275.

(250)889-5794.

DIAMOND Dave- window, gutter cleaning, roof-de-moss, gutter guards, power washing. Free est.

HANDYPERSONS JUNK BOX- We Do All The Loading

JUNK REMOVAL 7 days / wk.

Fast Service, Best Prices!!

Free quotes. (250)857-JUNK.

CBS MASONRY BBB. WCB. Chimneys, Fireplaces, Flagstone Rock, Concrete Pavers, Natural & Veneered Stone.

Replace, Rebuild, Renew!

“Quality is our Guarantee”.

Free Competitive Estimates.

(250)294-9942/(250)589-9942. www.cbsmasonry.com

ALL YOU NEED IN PRINT AND ONLINE www.bcclassified.com

today for more details.

DRIVEWAYS, WALKWAYS, Decks, etc. Reasonable rates.

250-744-8588, Norm.

UPHOLSTERY UPHOLSTERER work. Your fabric 250-480-7937.

or

NEEDS mine.

WINDOW CLEANING

RENOVATING?

PLUMBING FELIX PLUMBING. Over 35 years experience. Reasonable rates. Call 250-514-2376.

Looking For Staff?

Start Here.

Call 1-855-678-7833

PRESSURE WASHING

DAVE’S WINDOW Cleaning.

Windows, Gutters, Sweeping, Roofs, Roof Demossing, Pressure Washing. 250-361-6190.

MASONRY & BRICKWORK

250-507-6543.

AL’S V.I.P. Gutter Cleaning, guards, power washing, de-moss, Insured.

BIG BEAR Handyman. Painting, household repairs. Free estimate. Barry 250-896-6071.

VIRGO INTERIORS- Certified Interior decorator specializing in color schemes that work the first time. Call (250)721-2777. designerg@shaw.ca

D O N E R I G H T M OV I N G . C A $80/hr. Senior Discount. Free Est’s. No travel time before or after. BBB accredited. Call Tyler at 250-418-1747.

Use our community classifieds Service Directory to find an expert in your community. www.bcclassified.com

GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE - Friday, December 20, 2013

www.vicnews.com • A21

HomeFinder Find a place to call home

He Said, She Said

Q: WHAT’S THE GENDER TREND AMONG HOME BUYERS HERE?

SINGLE FEMALES: Made up 18.2 per cent of all home buyers in Greater Victoria, roughly matching a 2012 U.S. national home buyers and sellers profile.

SINGLE MALES: Made up 13 per cent of all home buyers.

To advertise in HomeFinder, call John Graham at 250.480.3227 or email jgraham@ blackpress.ca

AS OF DEC. 16

195 » $778,900 » 3,709 »

TOTAL PROPERTIES SOLD OR DEALS PENDING THIS MONTH HIGHEST BENCHMARK PRICE (TYPICAL HOME) IN THE REGION: HIGHLANDS TOTAL NUMBER OF HOMES LISTED IN ALL CATEGORIES

BUYING TIP | Consult a professional builder before considering a home that needs renos

Courtesy Victoria Real Estate Board

Do you have a house-hunting story you’d like to share with us? Email ddescoteau@ vicnews.com

GREATER VICTORIA MARKET UPDATE »

To renovate or not: that is the question Be realistic about cost, think twice about your motivation

Homeowners and prospective buyers come at the idea of renovations in a variety of ways.

Some consider making improvements to add value to their home before selling. Others weigh the idea of enhancing their personal living space with shopping for a home that better meets their needs. Still others look at buying low and doing basic renos as a way to turn a quick profit.

In the Capital Region, the last category is pretty much non-existent, given the relatively flat prices, says agent and Victoria Real Estate Board member Wendy Moreton.

For other people, however, certain factors are important to consider.

“The first thing I would look at would be the market conditions, to see who’s buying right now,” she says.

“Are people wanting (the home) all done, or are people willing to roll up their sleeves and do

Jim Wood photo

Kitchen renovations, like those undertaken by Mereta Witt and family in their 1913-built Fairfield home, can add value to a property, but only if done with care and quality, says realtor Wendy Moreton. the work?”

While kitchen and bathroom makeovers get many people excited, renovators have to be careful about how they go about such jobs.

“There’s cost-effective, there’s thrifty and then there’s just plain cheap,” Moreton says. “Sometimes people will do cheap and quick, but the majority of people can see through those kind of renovations.”

Spending a little more on such features as proper cabinet installations, decent bathroom fixtures, and well-fitted carpet or flooring can pay off in getting more serious prospective buyers.

Also crucial to consider is whether the property is a good candidate for a reno, Moreton says.

If it’s “a good little house with a good lay-

out,” it might be a good candidate, she says, whereas if it’s on a busy corner or is clearly rundown, it might not be worth putting money into.

Experts say that while certain homebuyers are skilled enough to do some work themselves, they make up a small percentage of the total.

It’s also common for people to be surprised by the cost of renova-

tions. When buyers purchase an older house that needs work, the upgrades frequently cost more than expected.

A good idea is talking first to a professional with renovation experience. For homebuyers on a budget, create a list of improvement priorities, work with a builder from there and spread costs over a period of years.

– Don Descoteau

Let us Pay you Cash on your next home purchase www.TotalRealtyDiscount.ca

Ray Kong

PURCHASE A PROPERTY LISTED BY ANY REAL ESTATE COMPANY AND WOW! WE PAY YOU Realtor® Prof. Engineer UP TO 2/3 OF OUR COMMISSION AND MORE! One Percent Realty V.I.

Effort = Concrete Results Locally Owned and Operated

• Ready-Mixed Concrete • Concrete Accessories • Gravity Wall Blocks • Victoria’s Only Liquid Colouring System

765 Industrial Way • www.iconcrete.ca

250-478-0555

PURCHASE PRICE CASH REBATE*

$300,000 $400,000 $500,000 $600,000 $700,000 ETC.

$500 $2,000 $3,500 $5,000 $6,500 $$$

Ph: 250-590-7011 Ray@RayKong.ca

* Conditions:

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WOW ing costs Cash Rebates apply Only to clos - helps with w furniture 3.0% first $100,000 +1.5% of - buy some ne liday balance buyer agent - go on a ho commission, first $5,500 of any commission payable to buying agent

And of course sell your home for only $ 6,900 (props. over 600k are 1% +$900)

www. TotalRealtyDiscount.ca www. OnePercentRealty.com

Why pay more for the same Full MLS® Service

Guy Effler

Realtor® Former Teacher

One Percent Realty V.I. Ph: 250-812-4910 Guy@OnePercentRealty.com

A22 • www.vicnews.com

Friday, December 20, 2013 - GOLDSTREAM

NEWS GAZETTE

Select your home.

Select your mortgage.

OPEN HOUSES | DEC. 19 - DEC. 25, 2013

Oak Bay 250-370-7601 Victoria 250-483-1360 Westshore 250-391-2933 Sidney 250-655-0632 Chatterton Way 250-479-0688 www.vericoselect.com

more details in Real Estate Victoria, available FREE on news stands now

1025 Scottswood, $545,000

VICTORIA 606 Speed Ave, $215,000

Saturday & Sunday 1-3 Royal LePage Coast Capital Realty Scott Munro, 250 477-5353

5-1027 Belmont Ave, $639,000

Saturday Jan 4, 1-3 DFH Real Estate Ltd. Dennis Guevin, 250-477-7291

SAANICH PENINSULA

Sat & Sun Dec 21/22nd & Sun Dec 29th 1-4 Royal LePage Coast Capital Realty Maggie Thompson, 250-889-5955

7179 Skyline, $498,800

Midtown Park

9820 Seaport Pl, $499,500+

Saturday & Sunday 12-4 RE/MAX Alliance Ron Neal, 250-386-8181

220-1680 Poplar Ave, $142,900

404-520 Foster St, $199,900!

17-2115 Amelia Ave, $349,000 Saturday, Dec. 21 & Sunday, Dec. 22 1-3 DFH Real Estate Ltd. Bill Knowles, 250-656-0131

SAANICH WEST Saturday Dec 21, Dec 28 & Jan 4 11-1 Pemberton Holmes 3835 South Valley Dr, $769,000 Rick Couvelier, 250-477-0921 Sunday, Dec. 22 2-4 SAANICH EAST Century 21 Queenswood Realty 982 Mckenzie Ave, Anke Venema, 250-477-1100 $299,900

Saturday & Sunday 1-4 Royal LePage Coast Capital Realty James Liu, 250 477-5353

110-10461 Resthaven, $164,900

3795 Burnside Pl, $549,900 Saturday January 4 1-3 DFH Real Estate Ltd. Jenn Raappana, 250-590-3921

3379 Vision Way, $339,900

Tuesday-Saturday 1-3 except Dec 22-Jan 6 Gordon Hulme Realty Don King 250-516-1202

Saturday Jan. 4 & Sunday Jan. 5 1-3 DFH Real Estate Ltd. Mike Hartshorne, 250-590-3921

WEST SHORE 2655 Sooke Rd, $219,900

Saturday & Sunday 1-3 Holmes Realty Michele Holmes, 250-656-0911

Saturday, Dec. 21 2-4 Pemberton Holmes Jeff Shorter, 250-744-9903

ESQUIMALT

Saturday Dec 21 1-4 DFH Real Estate Ltd. Patti Locke-Lewkowich, 250-477-7291

9776 Fourth St.

Sun Dec 22, Sun Dec 29 & Sun Jan 5 11-1 Pemberton Holmes Rick Couvelier, 250-477-0921

Thursday thru Monday 1-4 Re/Max Camosun Brad Gregory, 250 744-3301

103-383 Wale Rd, $207,900 Saturday 1-3 DFH Real Estate Ltd. Kevin Seibel, 250-580-4878

3379 Vision Way, $339,900 Saturday, Dec. 28 & Sunday, Dec .29 1-3 DFH Real Estate Ltd. Mike Hartshorne, 250-590-3921

3467 Happy Valley Rd.

19-848 Hockley Ave, $59,500 Saturday, Dec. 21 11-1 Pemberton Holmes Ltd. Eileen Jespersen, 250-686-4820

24-848 Hockley Ave, $74,500 Saturday, Dec. 21 11-1 Pemberton Holmes Ltd. Eileen Jespersen, 250-686-4820

3377 Vision Way, $339,900 Saturday & Sunday Dec 28/29th & Jan 4/5th 1-3 DFH Real Estate Ltd. Jenn Raappana, 250-590-3921

3008 Dornier Rd.

Saturday, Jan. 4 & Sunday, Jan. 5 12-4 Saturday, Jan. 4 & Sunday Jan. 5 12-4 DFH Real Estate Ltd. DFH Real Estate Ltd. Mike Hartshorne, 250-889-4445 Mike Hartshorne, 250-889-4445

Boxing Day Blowout fROM dEC 16th to the 29th

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www.vicnews.com • A23

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GOLDSTREAM NEWS GAZETTE - Friday, December 20, 2013

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• High Potency. 1,200 mg of 100% wild Alaskan Salmon oil • Sustainable. Harvested from the pristine, cold waters of Alaska & IFFO* certified • Premium. Provides the full range of 17 whole fatty acids. $ 17.98 • Cold pressed, 90 softgels whole food $ 31.99 product

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Enerex Oil of Oregano

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Sukin SkinCare

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Earthpaste Toothpaste Earthpaste delivers all the benefits you expect from a toothpaste without any chemicals or additives.

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TheraCane Self Massager

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Ubiquinol QH Active CoQ10 • Restores blood levels of ubiquinol that decline rapidly after age 40 • Provides sustained energy to fight age related fatigue • Reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease • Improves mental sharpness after age 50 • Supports vital $ organ function

43.99 100mg

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CurcuminRich Theracurmin™

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cum

Organic fair-trade coffee.

Featuring Winter Harvest a blend of coffees from three African origins: Ethiopia, Tanzania and the D.R. Congo.

Deliciously balanced blend of African coffees: sweet stone fruit & juicy citrus entry, toasted almond & dark chocolate finish. $ Free Cane Sugar with Purchase Entire Line On Sale

Do Matcha

Flora Tea

d. W .

Til li

Level Ground Coffee

Mon-Fri, 9:30 am - 8:30 pm • Sat, 9:30 am - 8 pm • Sun, 10 am - 8 pm

Gorge Rd. West

Tillicum

For updates on upcoming seminars and in-store specials, follow us on facebook.

Rd.

A24 • www.vicnews.com

Friday, December 20, 2013 - GOLDSTREAM

NEWS GAZETTE

Merry Christmas from all of us!

Lilydale Fresh Grade “A” Young Turkey

Grade “A” Turkey

Frozen, All Sizes While quantities last.

Limit one per family order $2.16/kg

All Sizes While quantities last. $4.39/kg

Over Limit Price $1.39/lb, $3.06/kg

On Sale

1

On Sale

98

¢

99 Per lb

Per lb

With a minimum $50 family order (including turkey)

Green Giant Vegetables

Coke, Pepsi,

Available in the Meat Dept.

300g

Selected Flavours, Dasani or Aquafina Water 12 Pack or Glaceau Vitamin Water 4 Pack Selected

Assorted 750g

On Sale

3

On Sale

On Sale

4Each9

39

1

for

9Each9

Where this symbol appears, deposit & enviro levies are applicable.

Thrifty Kitchens Cranberry Orange Sauce

99

20

Weekly Specials in effect until 6pm Tuesday, December 24th, 2013

Christmas Store Hours

December 18th –23rd

December 24th

We’re open Boxing Day!

24 hour locations will remain open 24 hours

at all locations

24 hour locations will remain open 24 hours

6am–Midnight

6am–6pm

9am–6pm