Victoria News, December 18, 2015

VICTORIANEWS VICTORIA a c . t s o esatc

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NEWS: Star Wars craze hits local stores /A13 15 QUESTIONS: With Victoria councillor Marianne Alto /A7 ARTS: New documentary focuses on First Nations police /A12

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Volunteers, from left, Ann Purdy, Derek Pace, Betty Rudge, Noboru Tsunoda, Cass Hurst, Kristin Fleming and Penny Draper stand with supplies for hampers in the chapel at the Mustard Seed on Queen Street.

Don Denton/Victoria News

Local charities need help in final push towards Christmas Pamela Roth Victoria News

In order to make sure everyone has a merry Christmas this year, local charities are calling on Victorians to open their wallets, if they haven’t already.

During the past few days, the Mustard Seed has distributed 1,200 hampers that include a turkey, produce and an abundance of nonperishable goods. Threehundred of those are for families.

Thanks to food donations year round, the shelves at the Mustard Seed are looking rather healthy these days. It’s the financial goal of reaching $1 million before the new year that needs some attention.

According to Allan Lingwood, interim executive director for the Mustard Seed, approximately $500,000 has been raised thus far that will go towards a number of programs.

Lingwood is confident Victorians will come

through with the remaining $500,000 during the final stretch of the holiday season, but can’t help but feel a bit nervous.

are sprouting up as well,” said Lingwood.

Each month, the Mustard Seed impacts 5,000 people, including

“The nervousness is the local international appeals this particular year are much stronger than last year.”

- Allan Lingwood

“The nervousness is the local international appeals this particular year are much stronger than last year. Every year there is more charities locally that

750 to 1,000 families in Victoria. The numbers have been consistent throughout the last six years.

“The reality is all these

than 3,000 children will needs exist and we live in a fairly affluent community. receive two gifts and stocking stuffers thanks It’s up to us to really to numerous events, step up to the plate and including the annual Tree support. It would be a of Wishes campaign in real shame not to see our local shopping centres. neighbours supported in Every year, Santa’s abundance.”

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VICTORIA NEWS NEWS -- Friday, Friday, December December 18, 18, 2015 2015 VICTORIA

Breaking addiction

COMMUNITY NEWS

Pamela Roth

Ferries add more sailings for holiday season

IN BRIEF

How United Way helped one man get his life back Victoria News

After spending another night sleeping on the ground in Beacon Hill Park, Chris Hancock often woke up thinking about how he lost his job, girlfriend, house and family in a five-year span due to his alcohol addiction.

Feeling physically ill and shaking from withdrawal, Hancock knew once he downed a few drinks those thoughts wouldn’t be there anymore. They would go away for at least another day as long as he had his booze.

Every day was spent tracking down more alcohol, money and a place to lay his head for the night. At the height of his addiction, Hancock was drinking between 40 and 60 ounces of rye a day.

“It’s not a hangover, it’s a place of hopelessness. You begin to realize that your survival depends on getting your drug of choice,” said Hancock, noting he was raised by good parents and had a normal childhood.

“In order to survive, you probably will have to do things you don’t really feel are good. One tends to really struggle with the idea of whether it’s worthwhile continuing on.”

Prior to Victoria, Hancock

was living in Calgary where he worked as a flight attendant for an airline. He had everything a young man could possibly want, but was also formulating a disease.

Holding down a stable job and life, Hancock never thought he’d be one of those people living on the streets, drinking out of a brown paper bag. In his head he wasn’t an alcoholic, but the disease took hold as he progressed into his early 30s.

Eventually Hancock lost his job and girlfriend, so he decided to move to Victoria where he had his family to help him get back on his feet. But the addiction continued, placing a strain on his loved ones who could no longer stand by and watch him slowly die.

“Over a period of time of me promising to stop drinking and several bouts of detoxes and other treatment programs, they had to start backing away,” said Hancock, noting his lowest point was when his family started to disappear.

His addiction became so severe that his nervous system began shutting down, making it difficult at times to walk or sign his own name.

“It really is amazing how after a couple of drinks you begin to tell yourself that

this is acceptable. Your own standards for yourself begin to fall into addiction.”

During one of his last visits to detox, which he attended at least a dozen times, Hancock was approached by a worker with the Umbrella Society for addictions and mental health. He was hooked up with a network of services funded by United Way and eventually managed to get his life back on track.

Now at 38 years old, Hancock is an avid hiker, backpacker and snowboarder, working as an outreach worker for the Umbrella Society. His job is a constant reminder of how lucky he is to be sober and how much work is needed to stay on the right path.

“I feel very sad where I got to, but I’m very happy that I am where I am. It’s been a long and slow process and a lot of hard work, but it’s definitely paid off,” said Hancock, who marked five years of sobriety in September. “I live a beautiful life now and I support myself, have a lovely little place down by the water, a beautiful girlfriend. Life is just good now.”

Hancock credits much of his success to the services he utilized that are funded by United Way. As the region’s largest non-

Photo contrivuted

Once an alcoholic living on the streets of Victoria, Chris Hancock is now an outreach worker with the Umbrella Society. government funder, United Way assists charitable organizations by identifying and funding programs to address immediate needs and underlying causes of the community’s most pressing social challenges.

Last year, the organization and its community partners reached 80,000 individuals, families, children and youth thanks to support from 11,000 donors. This year, United Way hopes to engage 2,000 additional donors through its community campaign that was launched in September. The goal is to raise $6 million.

“The need is great in our

community,” said United Way CEO Patricia Jelinski.

“We are asking our donors, both inside and outside of workplaces, to continue to support our cause and introduce a friend or co-worker to United Way. December is a key month when people give back to their community and every donation, big or small, can help change a person’s life.”

Donations to the community campaign are accepted at workplaces, United Way’s office at 1144 Fort St., by calling 250-3856708 or online at uwgv.ca. editor@vicnews.com

New business hub launched at City Hall Kendra Wong Victoria News

The City of Victoria is making it easier for young entrepreneurs to open businesses and local businesses to expand with the launch of a new business hub.

Earlier this week, the city opened the business hub at City Hall which will operate as a resource to encourage economic growth in Victoria.

According to Victoria Mayor Lisa Helps, the business hub has five main functions: to streamline and demystify business and development processes at City Hall, make it easier to do business in Victoria, advise on how to reduce unnecessary red tape, connect entrepreneurs with resources they need and accelerate the development of a vibrant downtown.

“We hope that this space

becomes for our business community is the go to place,” she said. “This is the place where people can come for that one stop piece of information.”

The roughly 500-square-foot space includes couches and a TV and offers a place for people to meet, ask questions and connect with community partners such as VIATEC, Tourism Victoria, the Greater Victoria Development Agency and the chamber of

commerce.

The business hub was a recommendation by the mayor’s task force on economic development and prosperity.

The city is also looking to hire a business ambassador, someone with experience in business startups, development and social enterprise to serve as a resource for those navigating the process. kendra.wong@vicnews.com

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Tom Jackson’s Huron Carole rolls into Victoria Actor, singer and lifetime philanthropist Tom Jackson will be bringing his annual Huron Carole to Victoria Dec. 18. The show features enchanting songs of Christmas with a shimmering light of faith and plenty of tomfoolery. At the heart of the classic story is how Christmas literally saved Tom’s life and helped provide hope for millions of needy Canadians for almost three decades.

Victoria is the final stop of the cross Canada tour that began Nov. 28 in St. John’s NL. The local beneficiary in Victoria is the Mustard Seed.

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B.C. Ferries is adding more than 150 additional sailings for the holiday season. From Dec. 18 to Jan. 3, more than 100 sailings have been added to the Tsawwassen-Swartz Bay route (the busiest route in the fleet). More than 40 extra sailings are scheduled between Horseshoe Bay and Departure Bay. Sailings have also been added to the TsawwassenDuke Point run on Saturdays.

Dec. 23 is expected to be the busiest preChristmas travel day.

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Friday, December 18, 2015 - VICTORIA NEWS Friday, December 18, 2015 - VICTORIA NEWS

Project Literacy Victoria finds new life after brief hiatus Kendra Wong Victoria News

Cecelia has always had difficulty with math.

The Victoria resident, who did not want to give her last name, is dyslexic. When she was younger, she moved around a lot, making it challenging to find consistent help.

She had problems such as adding tax onto grocery bills.

Being on a fixed grocery budget, she would end up going to

a register with no idea of the dollar amount in her basket.

“It’s difficult for me to see the numbers the right way,” Cecelia said.

“It’s been really hard.”

That’s when Cecelia decided to get help.

She had seen signs for Project Literacy Victoria, a program that provides free one-on-one literacy tutoring, and decided to enrol. Shortly after, she was paired with 21-year-old volunteer tutor Austen Whitehead.

Whitehead developed an activity plan to help Cecelia with her math skills.

They started with math problems and worked their way up to multiplying the 12 per cent sales tax to prices, as well as long division.

Over the last four months, Cecelia’s skills have improved dramatically.

“I feel more confident now,” she said adding she received 28.5 out of 29 on a recent math test.

Kathleen Troger,

executive director with Project Literacy Victoria, said she’s seen a visual difference in Cecelia as well.

“She’s just blossomed in front of my eyes. When I first paired her up with Austen she was very nervous and uncomfortable and didn’t have a lot of eye contact,” she said.

“Whereas now, she looks me in the eye.

She’s beaming.”

Cecelia and Whitehead are one of 50 tutor-learner pairs

at Project Literacy Victoria.

The program has been operating in the city for the past 28 years, helping adults with literacy such as reading, writing, comprehension, numeracy, and provides support for computer-literacy related goals as well.

They also assist residents with getting driver’s licences or B.C. Medical.

However, last fall the program was forced to close its doors for six

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our programming is as high as it possibly can be,” she said, noting they also received $50,000 in funding from the Ministry of Advanced Education.

“This service is a real fundamental in this community.”

Carol Hall, director of community initiatives and grants with the foundation, said this year’s grant recipients address at least one of 12 vital sign issue areas, including learning, arts, environment and homelessness.

“Literacy is really central in helping people realize their potential. It’s a cornerstone to community well-being in many ways,” Hall said. “We’re really pleased to see such a diversity of projects going out in this year’s community grants.” kendra.wong@vicnews.com

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months due to funding cuts, despite public outcry from tutors and people who benefit from the program.

This year, the program was one of 89 non-profit organizations on Vancouver Island that were awarded a recordbreaking $1.7 million in community grants from the Victoria Foundation.

The $20,000 grant for Project Literacy is a significant chunk of the program’s $80,000 to $100,000 operating budget, allowing them to continue to offer programs again.

Troger said they’ll work on rebuilding the program, including bringing on additional staff.

“It really is going to help us focus on increasing the number of tutor-learning pairings we have and ensuring the quality of

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Victoria police are still searching for a motorcyle and red hoodie connected to a stolen truck investigation that turned violent Saturday night.

Just before 8 p.m., officers were investigating the theft of a 1987 Toyota pickup truck in the 600 block of Constance Avenue in Esquimalt. During the investigation, the suspect fled from a nearby location on an un-plated motorcycle, but returned moments later.

According to police, officers moved in while the man was attempting to start the stolen truck.

He became combative, using the vehicle to push other vehicles out of the way before taking off at a high rate of speed.

Due to weather and road conditions, police decided not to give chase. The suspect was located a few hours later in the 1300 block of Quadra Street and taken into custody without further incident.

Police have since found the truck, but are still searching for the dark-coloured motorcycle that doesn’t have any plates or tags. Investigators believe the bike is hidden somewhere within a few block radius of Constance Avenue and Esquimalt Road, and could possibly be stashed in a yard, bush or behind a dumpster.

Police are also looking for a discarded red hoodie, also believed to be in the same area.

The suspect remains in custody and could be facing several charges including dangerous driving, assaulting a police officer, driving while prohibited and possession of stolen property.

In an unrelated matter, police are investigating a stabbing that occurred downtown early Wednesday morning.

At around 3:26 a.m., officers were called to the area of Langley and Broughton Street. There, they found a male suffering from non life-threatening injuries. Police said there is no apparent risk to the public.

Anyone with information is asked to call 250995-7654.

www.vicnews.com • A5

VICTORIA NEWS -Friday, December 18, 2015

Police crack down on impaired drivers Pamela Roth Victoria News

It’s been two weeks since Victoria police started their annual holiday check stop campaign to remove impaired drivers from city roads.

And even though the latest numbers have yet to come on how many impaired drivers have been nabbed thus far, officers on the roads are still seeing far too many drunks behind the wheel.

“From my experience being on the road and in traffic, there’s still quite a few people that are making a decision to consume alcohol and drive,” said Victoria police spokesperson Const.

Matt Rutherford.

“There’s still lots of people that have had a few drinks and are just blowing into the fail range, but I can think of two or three examples in the past few months of people that have been grossly intoxicated. It’s sad from a first responders point of view.”

Victoria News file photo

Saanich Police reserve constable Candace Boland prepares to stop one of the more than 500 vehicles that passed through a Counter Attack roadblock on Gorge Road.

On Dec. 4, police agencies throughout the province embarked on their annual Counterattack blitz, checking more than 24,000 vehicles and nabbing 116 impaired drivers.

During the first weekend of the blitz, the Capital Regional

District’s Integrated Road Safety Unit (CRD-IRSU), Victoria police and West Shore RCMP checked 2,300 drivers. Three of those were given immediate 90-day roadside prohibitions for driving while impaired.

Another 25 appeared to have been drinking,

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According to police, drinking and driving continues to be the number one cause of death related to motor vehicles. Fortunately, Rutherford said the public and businesses are helpful with

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reporting impaired drivers.

“Liquor stores, pubs, fast food restaurants...they are very supportive and they usually phone the police and give us the means to apprehend the driver,” said Rutherford, stressing the importance of planning ahead when going out for a night on the town.

“It’s such a preventable thing, impaired driving. We harp on this year after year and it’s something that needs to change in our society.”

Police will be conducting check stops throughout the holiday season and into the new year.

Since the beginning of the year, the CRDIRSU has issued 90-day immediate roadside prohibitions to 160 drivers for operating a vehicle while impaired by alcohol. Of those, 28 were apprehended between 8 a.m. and 4 p.m. on various days of the week. editor@vicnews.com

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VICTORIANEWS

EDITORIAL

Friday, Friday,December December18, 18,2015 2015- -VICTORIA VICTORIANEWS NEWS

The Victoria News is published by Black Press Ltd. | 818 Broughton St., Victoria, B.C. V8W 1E4 | Phone: 250-381-3484 • Fax: 250-386-2624 • Web: www.vicnews.com

OUR VIEW

Few films span generations like Star Wars How often is it that a community newspaper gets the chance to talk about what is arguably the most anticipated film opening this century?

So, I’m going to take the death star and run with it.

Star Wars: The Force Awakens opens in theatres Friday. Prior to its box office opening, it already pulled in a reported $50 million in pre-sale tickets. This coming from young and old Star Wars fans everywhere.

It’s a film franchise that has permeated almost all aspects of pop culture and created a cult-like following.

It’s somewhat simple structure with the ultralist hero Luke Skywalker and the rogue in Han Solo, up against the epitome of evil, Darth Vader set in a galaxy far far away has managed to captivate audiences for nearly 40 years.

Now, nearly a decade after the last prequel, Star Wars: Revenge of the Sith, JJ Abrams and George Lucas are breathing new life into the franchise and inspiring younger generations to pick up a lightsabre.

But Disney shouldn’t get all the credit for the revival of the galactic empire. It’s also the parents who show the original trilogy to their kids on a Friday night — a willingness to pass along their love for the iconic series that has allowed the franchise to span generations.

Star Wars is no longer a film simply for your parents.

B Woodward, owner of Cherry Bomb Toys on Broad Street, said memorbilia has been flying off the shelves for months now.

Many people are jumping on the bandwagon and hoping that the new installment will make up for the disappointment of episodes one through three — a dark time for fans everywhere.

One thing is for sure: very few films have the ability to span generations, and inspire and captivate audiences quite like Star Wars.

The Victoria News is a member of the National Newsmedia Council, which is an independent organization established to deal with acceptable journalistic practices and ethical behaviour. If you have concerns about editorial content, please contact: editor@vicnews.com or 250-480-3265.

If you are not satisfied with the response and wish to file a formal complaint, visit the web site at mediacouncil.ca or call toll-free 1-844-877-1163 for additional information.

Readers respond: Get on with policing, despite chief scandal

Costs for sewage treatment plant are too high

Time to put some Ho! Ho! Ho! into homelessness

Is the fuss about Victoria police chief Frank Eisner’s emails or such legitimate?

I understand that he and a police officer in a different organization not under his command were “stupid” (in his words) for engaging in inappropriate banter in a politically correct environment.

Stuff goes on — the foulest joke I’ve heard was told by a female I worked with.

Unions may or may not have legitimate concerns, including because there will be officers who chafe under coaching to do their work better. (I can say that there are bad ideas about justice high in Victoria’s police department and that within Saanich’s there are officers and other employees who are not competent — one is a devious bureaucrat.)

In the situation, an outside investigation may be the best way to go to stop the flapping. Saanich police erred in not using that method in a political situation, and of course the Saanich government failed to do so in a case where IT employees broke B.C. law. An outside investigation is costly, but government has to be assured as its clean because it is a coercive monopoly.

The Greater Victoria area needs more and better policing. Let’s get on with it.

Perceptions. Amounts describing millions and billions of dollars are bandied about as if the difference between an ‘M’ and a ‘B’ at the beginning of the words are of little consequence.

I wonder how many of us stop to think that by changing those letters we change the number of zeroes from six to nine? One million, we may be able to comprehend but one billion? One billion is a compact way of saying ‘One thousand millions.’ How many of us can even imagine such a figure?

The powers that be are contemplating condemning us and our children to pay that amount and more to pay for a sewage treatment plant to serve a population that in 50 years will not be more than one million.

A quick search of the Internet will reveal how many other coastal communities have solved their sewage problems for far less money than the thirteen hundred millions proposed for ours.

I am not convinced the highly paid researchers working on ours have earned their pay.

Jack Clover Victoria

Certain religious folk believe their icon was born in a cattle shed, as there was no room at the inn for a homeless Palestinian couple who came to Bethlehem, possibly to take part in a Roman census. Images of that nativity scene are symbolically prominent at this time of year, but real homelessness has reached a crisis point two millennia later.

Surely, all levels of government need to work together, and think about creating permanent housing instead of the tent cities that have become prevalent in many communities. Ebenezer Scrooge changed his miserly ways, and cooked his Christmas goose in Charles Dickens’ wonderful tale of redemption. Now it’s time for all government agencies to say “What’s good for the goose, is good for the gander,” and put as much focus and resources on homelessness as is put in welcoming Syrian refugees. In Montreal for example, a disused hospital has been reopened to facilitate medical check-ups for Syrian refugees arriving in Quebec.

Canadians will offer help to the homeless, just as they are doing for the refugees; charity begins at home, after all. It’s time to put some HO! HO! HO! into homelessness.

Keith Sketchley Saanich

Bernie Smith Parksville

What do you think?

Give us your comments by e-mail: editor@ vicnews.com or fax 250-386-2624. All letters must have a name and a telephone number for verification.

Penny Sakamoto, Group Publisher 250-480-3204 Don Denton, Photo Supervisor 250-480-3264 Janice Marshall, Production Manager 250-480-3252

Mike Cowan Publisher 250-480-3274 mike.cowan@blackpress.ca

Pamela Roth Editor 250-480-3265 editor@vicnews.com

Kendra Wong Reporter 250-480-3238

Patty Doering Lisa Holliday-Scott Steven Arneson Advertising Consultant Advertising Consultant Advertising Consultant 250-480-3242 250-480-3209 250-480-3228

reporterg@vicnews.com lisa.holliday-scott@vicnews.com steven.arneson@vicnews.com

pdoering@vicnews.com

Michelle Gjerde Creative 250-480-3261 mgjerde@vicnews.com

VICTORIA NEWS NEWS -Friday, -Friday,December December18, 18,2015 2015 VICTORIA

www.vicnews.com • A7

www.vicnews.com • A7

15 Questions:

With Marianne Alto, Victoria City Councillor It blends the excitement, opportunities, innovation and challenges of a city with the warmth, familiarity and camaraderie of a town.

6. What is your favourite movie?

So many from which to choose! The Cruel Sea (1953), Them (1954), Dark City (1998), Billy Elliot (2000), The Imitation Game (2014) 7. Which person, alive or dead, would you have dinner with?

Gloria Steinem.

“May you and yours enjoy this Holiday Season”

8. What’s your favourite vacation destination?

Nearby, MacKenzie Beach in Tofino. Far away, Australia.

9. If you could have one super power, what would it be?

An extraordinarily long life — to witness my children’s whole lives.

1. It’s Sunday morning, what are you having for breakfast?

I’m making a big brunch for my family — potato parmesan chive waffles, bacon, sausages, fruit, whipped cream, coffee and juice.

2. If you didn’t do what you did for a living, what would you be?

A radio host or a philanthropist or a welder.

3. What’s playing in your music player right now?

Pink: 10 Years in Harmony.

4. What’s your biggest pet peeve?

When one of my cats vomits on the carpet — and I step in it.

5. What’s the best thing about living in Victoria?

10. What’s the one thing you haven’t done that you’d love to do?

Learn Taiko drumming and take flying lessons.

11. If you could see one concert, what would it be?

.

Kiri Te Kanawa

12. What is your favourite TV show?

Globe Trekker.

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My mother’s advice — “before speaking or taking action, ask yourself: what useful purpose will this serve?”

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wide by Christmas Eve. So far, the organization has collected $1.7 million from its 400 kettles scattered throughout B.C. — 25 of which are located in Victoria.

Locally, more than 1,500 toys were collected this week through Christmas concerts by the Naden Band.

In addition to the kettles, the public can make donations online at fillthekettle.com, to a charity of their choice, or create their own online kettle campaign. The Salvation Army is now in its 150th year. editor@vicnews.com

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In its 38 years of operation, the program has ballooned to serve 1,500 families every year with the help of 400 volunteers.

Last year, volunteers put in more than 10,000 hours between the workshop, warehouse and efforts at local malls. This year the workshop handled more than 8,000 presents. Seventy-five spin tops made by members of the Island Woodturners Guild were donated on Wednesday.

Despite a growth in need,

executive director Christine Hewitt said the organization hasn’t had any problem reaching its goal.

“The donors in our community are stellar people... we’ve never doubted our community,” said Hewitt, noting many of the volunteers are families. “There’s a lot of working poor, people just on the edge of poverty...the need seems to keep growing.”

The Salvation Army is now in the midst of its Christmas kettle campaign, which has a goal of raising $4 million province-

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Friday, Friday, December December 18, 18, 2015 2015 -- VICTORIA VICTORIA NEWS

Our national goose – emblematic and problematic canadensis’ formation flying clearly enables its global reach, but why do geese honk as they go?

It’s almost like a warning to the aircraft that share their flight paths.

Unfortunately the danger of Canada geese colliding with planes taking off and landing at Victoria International Airport is one reason why they are not everybody’s favourite bird.

Researchers at Britain’s Royal Veterinary College have shown that the V formation reduces wind resistance: air from each bird’s wingtips creates a

Barbara Julian

Suburban Wildlife

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The range of Canada goose extends from the Arctic to Florida, and the species, comprising at least seven subspecies, is regularly seen in Siberia, China, Japan and Europe. Brant

vortex with an up-wash that gives lift to the bird behind it. The honking may communicate that a bird is about to fall back to a more restful position, each conserving energy to enable a longer flight for the group. From below it sounds as if the birds are rallying each other.

Geese begin honking (or peeping) at birth, so it’s no surprise that they use vocal cues when travelling.

Many people appreciate the regal bearing and elegantly curved black and white neck of Canada geese. We

2016

admire how they stride confidently on land, glide serenely in water, mate for life and guard their young. They can be fierce about this, as anyone knows who has come between a mama goose and her eggs or goslings while out exploring an estuary.

She will chase and hiss until you get out of her space, or her mate will.

According to American Wildlife rehabilitator Robin McClary, “the female chooses her mate based on his displays of behaviours (and) indicates her choice…by beginning

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to follow him on land or water or standing next to him at all times.

Mated pairs who have been separated for even a short time greet each other with an elaborate display (which) includes loud honking.”

Both parents incubate eggs during the 24 to 28 days it takes them to hatch, although the female does most.

During this period the adults moult and then re-grow flight feathers just when their young hatch. At local beaches we see them leading the offspring in a line, one parent at the head

and the other at the tail. If one of the little brown fellows wanders off (and they are curious and active infants), a parent will promptly herd it back. This is sensible behaviour as goslings have many predators: raccoons, ravens, large gulls and eagles.

Their worst predator though is humanity. By the early 20th century Canada geese were almost wiped out by hunters, but were re-introduced throughout North American mid-century.

Now they favour parks, golf courses and farmers’ fields where they browse the vegetation and leave droppings.

They leave an unsightly amount in Beacon Hill Park, but both the federal government and the U.S. Center For Disease Control state that goose droppings carry no health hazard for humans. Some introduced strains never got the memo (by imprinting) about migrating, so they settled year round and leave their calling card repeatedly.

The CRD together with “municipalities,

wildlife provincial authorities, stakeholders and farmers” has begun a Regional Canada Goose Management Strategy — or in plain language, a cull —- aimed at 250 birds with 40 already dispatched. They wrung their necks, but may also try addling eggs which means removing eggs from nests, shaking, piercing or covering them with oil so as to terminate embryo development, and then returning them.

News of this cull caught some people by surprise, as Canada geese have not received the attention which urban deer have when faced with culls. Yet they too have supporters. Some believe we should respect the bird that bears our country’s name, even as others see this national emblem as a local nuisance. Yet who can’t help liking a bird who stands by her mate, sets off on cross-country flights at the drop of a honk and defends her children to the death?

Not a bad bird to share a nationality with.

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VICTORIA NEWS -Friday, December 18, 2015

Dash cams at top of motorist gift lists filled with techno gadgets Santa will doubtless be dashing about delivering dash cams by the dozen, as they are top of many gift wish lists this year.

Most people see the onboard cameras, which continuously record the driver’s view of the road through the windshield, as a great way of gathering video evidence in the event of a collision.

Internet websites featuring often hair-raising video of dramatic crashes are drawing viewers in their millions. Thousands of eyewitness videos featuring car crashes, narrow escapes, and even staged crashes designed to commit insurance fraud have been uploaded to YouTube, Facebook, Twitter and dash cam dedicated websites.

The cheapest units start from as little as $30 but as is always the case with technology, you only get what you pay for.

Testing by the Driveway team shows that for less than $100, you can get a serviceable camera for your car.

However, if you want to install a more sophisticated version that records such information as date/time, speed, G-forces and location then get ready to spend more than $200. Yours truly bought a BlackVue DR3500-Full HD system, which retails for more than $400. I would recommend it for commercial fleets and people like me who want to record trips for editing into vacation videos or, in my case, test car video reports.

Rick Francouer, president of 360 Fabrication in Abbotsford, customized mine for easy and quick installation in different test vehicles. He recommends that no matter what the unit costs professional installation is advisable to ensure it doesn’t fail when you need it.

“We’ve seen a dramatic increase in the number of people, of all ages and all walks of life, installing systems, and the reason is simple, there are so many acts of stupidity on the road every day, protecting yourself with a visual record of your good driving habits is important in disputes with other drivers or your insurance agency.

“We have dozens of clients who have made

a $300 investment that’s paid tens of thousands in dividends when they are able to prove innocence in a disputed accident. In many jurisdictions, visual evidence is preferable to spoken testimony.”

ICBC spokesman Joanna Linsangan admits dash cams provide useful information but cautions drivers do not to rely too much on footage as it’s not admissible as evidence in court.

“We will take a look at anything that drivers can provide in evidence and every once a while we do see dash cam footage. But this technology is susceptible to manipulation and provides only a narrow view.”

A written report on such things as weather conditions and all circumstances are still extremely important when filing a claim.

While looking at dashcams we came across some other techno gadgets in demand which last minute gift shoppers might want to consider. Older cars are rarely designed to power today’s smart phones and MP3 players through USB ports. Even late models may only have one USB plug in.

Rocketek Canada is one of many brands now selling high output adaptors that use cigarette lighter slots to supply power to devices such as GPS Navigation unit. For under $20, it plugs into the lighter slot and duplicates it, providing two slots for devices to draw direct power plus two additional USB slots.

I’ve used mine around the world with great success, enabling me to run mobile navigation devices and play my iPod through audio systems via the Auxiliary Input point.

Factory installed navigation systems can add thousands to your new car’s sticker price. Your local electronics warehouse of choice will put you on the road with a guidance unit for less than $200.

Two more ideas. There are no shortage of books for auto enthusiasts but if you are looking for a fun read try Driven Mind

by Garry Sowerby, who along with his wife Lisa Calvi occasionally appears in these pages. Garry is an ‘adventure driver’ and his book records 50 great sto-

DrivewayCanada.ca |

ries about his road trips around the world.

Finally, driving shoes.

Yes, there is such a thing and I have three pairs.

Watch for a more detailed analysis of their value to everyday drivers in the New Year but check out these beauties now. Piloti has a large range selling for around $150 but these Luxury Mille shoes are to die for at $400 a pair! keith.morgan@drivewaybc.ca

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Friday, Friday,December December18, 18,2015 2015- -VICTORIA VICTORIANEWS NEWS

Victoria producer profiles work of tribal police force TV show follows B.C.’s only tribal police force in Lillooet

you're in the city, you don't “We want to get to the have time to build these relaheart of these officers and tionships,” he said.

“It's a different environment. show why they do what These people are here and they do.” they're not moving. They're — Steve Sxwithul’txw here for life. It's a very unique service.”

Kendra Wong Learn how to handle the car if you encounter Instead of being a traditional Victoria News “black ice” or if your car After, he became a journalist Cops-style show, the 13-epistarts to “hydroplane” and eventually a TV producer. sode series will feature a balA Victoria producer is shinin the safety of our “It's important that people ance of police interacting with ing the spotlight on the provclassroom. We’ll show community members and high- know what police officers have ince's only First Nations police you what to do so if it to deal with and what they light the beauty of its culture, force through a new documenhappens to you, you’ll know how to recover and carry,” said Sxwithul’txw, addlands, family and traditions. tary series. handle your car safely.

The show will follow police ing he hopes to draw attention For the last few weeks, Steve as they respond to calls, to how severely underfunded Sxwithul’txw, a Cook Street including those on Highway tribal police forces are across Village resident, has been film40, a notorious highway known the country. ing Tribal Police Files, a series for its dangerous roads, con“It took about a year-and-afocusing on the Stl’atl’imx UPCOMING half to two years to become duct road blocks and follow Tribal Police Service in LilDECEMBER Steve again. Nobody can up investigations, as well as looet.

GIFT COURSE STARTS CERTIFICATES understand that mentality following police when they The tribal police force proare a wonderful until you're there because attend functions, events and vides full policing services to way to stay safe WEST SHORE VICTORIA it's almost like that badge is pow wows in a peacekeeping 10 of 11 St'at'imc communities and drive wise! stamped and tattooed on your capacity. with two detachments in LilDecember 29, December 21, 9:30 am enc e d instructors have duc 9:30 am shoulder.

We want to get to a For Sxwithul’txw, it's a cause e looet and Mount Currie.

Since 1975 experienced instructors have educated types drivers December 29, 9:30 am all all Since 1975 ourour experienced instructors have educated types of of drivers ad s afet y .

We are the only driv the heart of these officers and that's close to his heart.

Unlike city policing or the importance road safety. only driving school with in-class onon thethe importance of of road safety.

WeWe areare thethe only driving school with in-class ofdriving fer I C B C ap prove d driving c show why they do what they He served as a police offiRCMP, tribal police are often Call 250-475-0666 driving simulators and offer ICBC approved driving courses, corporate and simulators and offer ICBC approved driving courses, corporate and nt pro grams as sPoliceFR EE L do.” cer witha the Tseulton members ofwell the community fleet driver development programs well FREE Learner’s Prep or register onPrep line at classes. fleet driver development programs as as well as as FREE Learner’s classes.

The crew will return in the Service in 1995 — a service he and become much more www.drivewisebc.com spring for another month. helped create. involved in the areas they He also served in Lillooet serve, said Sxwithul’txw.

Tribal Police Files will air in and completed his final year of “They are a part of the fall 2016 on the Aboriginal Peo! CALLTODAY! TODAY! CALL policing with SkyTrain police in ples Television Network. community. Truly that's what 250.475.0666 250.475.0666 Vancouver. makes the difference. When kendra.wong@vicnews.com

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VICTORIANEWS NEWS-Friday, -Friday,December December18, 18,2015 2015 VICTORIA

www.vicnews.com • A13

www.vicnews.com • A13

Portable Grab Bar & Evolution Walkers Kendra Wong/Victoria News

Star Wars memorabilia has been flying off the shelves at Cherry Bomb Toys on Broad Street, in anticipation of the release of Star Wars: The Force Awakens Friday.

Star Wars memorabilia flying off local store shelves Kendra Wong Victoria News

Chris Wooding's first experience watching Star Wars is one that thousands of fans around the world have also shared.

He watched Return of the Jedi, the third in the original trilogy, on a taped VHS at home when he was roughly six years old — and thus began a 27-year-long love affair with arguably one of the most popular movie franchises in history.

“I just grew to love the world. I enjoy the characters, they're all very well written. They fulfill all the various types of archetypes that exist in a good adventure story,” said the 33-yearold Victoria resident.

“It's quite possibly the best form of escapist adventure. No matter what's going on in the world and in your life, you can sit down and watch Star Wars and be taken out of your own life to a galaxy far far away.”

Fans have every reason to be jumping into their storm trooper suits with the newest film Star Wars: The Force Awakens released in theatres Friday.

Released a decade after the last prequel, Revenge of the Sith, the $4-billion Disney film will also feature the return of fan favourites Harrison Ford as Han Solo, Chewbacca and Mark Hamill as Luke Skywalker.

Wooding has watched the series dozens of times and is jumping at the chance to see the newest film.

“It's the kind of Star Wars film that, quite frankly, I never thought we'd be getting,” he said. “With just six films, it's just resonated into pop culture in a way that very few things have been able to top.”

Memorabilia has also been flying off the shelves in local stores.

Cherry Bomb Toys on

Broad Street sells hundreds of vintage and collectable Star Wars memorabilia, including figurines, comic books, lego, original film stock, cards, posters, life-sized Chewbacca and R2D2 cutouts and a life-sized model of Han in Carbonate for a cool $3,000.

B Woodward, coowner of Cherry Bomb Toys, said old and new collectors have been snatching up whatever they can get their hands on.

10% OFF regular pricing

Offer EXTENDED until December 31, 2015 by popular demand!!

“The Star Wars craze has been going for months. What we're seeing is people are building up on their vintage,” said Woodward, who has been a fan of the franchise for years.

“They want to rebuild the old collection or they want the new and high-end stuff.”

Both Wooding and Woodward agreed they will wait until the anticipation dies down before they hit the theatre. kendra.wong@vicnews.com

Consider being an independent news carrier for the Victoria News. You will earn extra dollars getting exercise to deliver an award winning community newspaper to the homes in your neighbourhood.

Call us for more information on how you can become a Victoria News carrier in your neighbourhood.

250-480-3285 circulation@vicnews.com

A14 • • www.vicnews.com www.vicnews.com A14

Friday, December 18, 2015 - VICTORIA Friday, December 18, 2015 - VICTORIA

NEWS NEWS

Victoria Regional Transit

Service Change Effective December 28, 2015 Happy holidays from BC Transit!

• Additional trips have been added to serve

Royal Bay and Belmont Secondary Schools and on other select routes to address times of high passenger demand.

• Revised schedules on routes 70/72 Downtown/

Swartz Bay and 81 Swartz Bay/Butchart Gardens to improve connections with BC Ferries service.

For more information, pick up the latest Rider's Guide on board or go to bctransit.com

5220

Victoria Regional Transit Commission

Transit Info 250·382·6161 • www.bctransit.com

Enjoy Peace of Mind

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www.vicnews.com

Kevin Underhill/Victoria News

Carrie Cameron belays her climbing partner, Deborah Bricks at the Crag X Climbing Centre In Victoria.

Rock climbing centre opens new facility Kevin Underhill Victoria News

The smell of new mats and the sound of excited chatter fill the new Crag X Climbing Centre downtown. The massive windowed-frontage on the 700 block of Pandora Avenue gives passerbys a glimpse into the life of a Victoria rock climber.

The massive undertaking of moving from their decades-old Rock Bay location has taken a toll on head of operations Drew Lauder.

“It’s a ridiculous endeavour,” Lauder said. “Just stripping every route and cleaning every single hold that comes down was a crazy process.”

After commissioning the tallest crane on Vancouver Island, trucking in 80,000-pound cement slabs from Duncan and spending upward of $2.5 million, Crag X finally has a new place to call home.

The indoor climbing centre

has an expansive 46-foot wall and offers more and safer bouldering areas than their previous site. The new gym officially opened their doors on Nov. 30 and is already swarming with climbers.

“We’re an incredibly busy facility; we have well over 200 people every day,” Lauder said.

Crag X caters to all skill levels but focuses primarily on adult members, of which they have about 500 active. Deborah Bricks, a new member, moved to Victoria from Toronto two months ago and has been coming to Crag X every two days since it opened.

“Climbing is a great social activity. You get to meet, connect and talk with people who are fit, healthy and like-minded,” she said.

Bricks met Carrie Cameron during opening week and the two have since become climbing partners — something Cameron said is common in the

Victoria climbing community.

“You just get to know people in here. You end up chatting and it’s a really friendly community,” Cameron said, they’ll likely continue to climb together for a long time.

Lauder said the community atmosphere is something that Crag X takes great pride in.

The people are open and welcoming to each other and the staff.

Crag X is not the only new climbing option in town. Last November, UVic opened their new Centre for Athletics, Recreation and Special Abilities featuring a climbing wall over 50 feet. Lauder said that Crag X has one advantage over every other gym.

“The thing that has kept us alive is our route setting,” Lauder said. “We have just a silly standard for route setting and it’s the reason people keep coming back.” intern@vicnews.com

www.vicnews.com • A15

VICTORIA NEWS -Friday, December 18, 2015 2015

Habitat for Humanity families Dining Out start fresh in new homes WING’S JAMES Marchand family has never owned anything new

BAY INN

Kendra Wong Victoria News

A month ago, Meghan Marchand was spending roughly 60 per cent of her monthly income, more than a full paycheque to ensure her two boys had a warm bed to sleep in and a roof over their head.

The 35-year-old single mother was renting the upstairs of a home in Brentwood Bay with her two sons — fiveyear-old Carson and 11-year-old Logan.

While their house is in adequate shape, Marchand's focus was on raising her children in a safe neighbourhood.

The remainder of her paycheque would go towards van payments, day care, insurance and other bills, leaving little for her to enrol her kids in additional activities.

“I pay a very large chunk of my income to rent costs. It's definitely been a challenge,” she said, adding she has a better paying job now, but is still struggling.

“I found that even though I had a good job on paper, supporting two kids on that, plus

Contributed photo

Meghan Marchand and her 11-year-old son Logan at the grand opening of Habitat for Humanity’s four-plex on Cedar Hill Cross Road. the day-to-day costs, we still lived cheque to cheque.”

Heading into the new year, the family of three

in need of an affordable and decent housing, have the ability to pay the interest-free mortgage and must partner

“Most of them never imagined it’d be possible for them to own a home in Victoria.”

— Yolanda Meijer

is starting a new chapter in their lives.

The Marchand family is one of four families that will be moving into a four-unit townhome complex on 4000 Cedar Hill Cross Rd., as part of a partnership with Habitat for Humanity Victoria.

Families were selected based on three criteria: they're

with Habitat.

As part of a ribbon cutting ceremony last week, the families were welcomed into their 1,200-square foot homes with more than 120 people on hand for the celebration.

“I was blown away.

My boys got to see it, it was the first time they had seen it since it was in the framing stage,”

JBI Pub

Love that lasts.

Christian Science

READING ROOM

Shortest Day films hit Vic The Vic Theatre hosts the Shortest Day films on Sunday, Dec. 20.

These free screenings are a great way to celebrate the winter solstice. Head to the Vic Theatre at 808 Douglas St. for the 4 p.m. family screening, with age-appropriate shorts.

Admission is free, seating is first come first serve. For the evening screening at 7 p.m., it’s a selection of dramas and comedies for adults.

The Shortest Day is presented with support from the Société de développement des entreprises culturelles (SODEC),Telefilm Canada, and the National Film Board (NFB). editor@vicnews.com

Drop by

the THE Marchand said, adding RESTAURANT she's never had anyand Take Out or Eat In Menu thing brand new.

Restaurant and enjoy a “They were busy Lunch, or Daily Lunch & Dinner Buffet An Invitation Breakfast, squabbling over bedDinner Entrée Combination Dinners for 1 to 8 From an Old Friend rooms and wrestling in Seafood and Deluxe Dishes mom's bedroom.”

Licenced Premises Marchand and her Open 11 a.m.- 10 p.m. daily boys will be moving Free Home Delivery with min. $20 order Present this coupon when you buy dinner or lunch and get a second of equal of lesser value into their home in FebFOR ONLY $2.00. This coupon may only be used with a minimum of two beverages (need not be alcoholic). Present coupon at time of ordering.

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

90 Gorge Rd. West ruary.

Not valid at JBI Pub on Sundays between 3:30-8:00pm. EXPIRES December 31, 2015 Now, her funds are 250-385-5564 250.384.7151 270 Government Street going towards an asset instead of rent, something Marchand hopes she can pass on to her boys in the future.

Yolanda Meijer, executive director of Habitat for Humanity, said the annual project makes a huge difference in families' lives.

“What I found standing in front of this group was you really see what it takes when a community comes Since 1870, Blundstone together and builds boots have walked the path less something for you,” travelled.

Following no one, she said. setting our own stride. The “Most of them never result is a boot that starts imagined it'd be poscomfortable and just sible for them to own gets better. You’ll a home in Victoria.

Being able to provide love the fit. that kind of stability And no for their children is a knots to tie! really overwhelming and remarkable thing.” #068 The Chisel Toe in Black. $199.95 The homes were The Cobbler funded by the 100K in 718 View St., Victoria blundstone.ca 250-386-3741 100 Days campaign, in which 100 women donated $100 to the cause, and were built with the help of more spiritual healing in communities since 188810/26/15 Cobbler-fall-ads.inddAdvancing 2 than 150 donors, sponsors and volunteers. kendra.wong@vicnews.com

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Our personalized services include: Personal Care • Nursing Services • Housekeeping Medications • Meal Preparations Transportation/Errands • Companionship

Call us to arrange a free nursing assessment Victoria: 250.385.0444 • Toll-Free: 1.866.786.0444 www.saintelizabeth.com Saint Elizabeth is a not-for-profit social enterprise dedicated to spreading hope and happiness since 1908.

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www.vicnews.com

9:32 PM

www.vicnews.com A16 •www.vicnews.com

Friday, December - VICTORIA Fri, Dec 18, 18,2015 2015, Victoria NEWS News

To advertise in print:

Browse more at:

Call: 250-388-3535 Email: classified@vicnews.com Self-serve: blackpressused.ca Career ads: localworkbc.ca

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INDEX IN BRIEF FAMILY ANNOUNCEMENTS COMMUNITY ANNOUNCEMENTS

FAMILY ANNOUNCEMENTS

COMMUNITY ANNOUNCEMENTS

IN MEMORIAM GIFTS

PERSONALS DISCREET CHAT for curious guys. Try FREE! Call 250-4194634 or 800-550-0618.

TRAVEL EMPLOYMENT BUSINESS SERVICES

MAKE A Connection. Real People, Flirty Chat Call FREE! 250-220-1300 or 1-800-2101010. www.livelinks.com 18+

PETS & LIVESTOCK MERCHANDISE FOR SALE REAL ESTATE RENTALS AUTOMOTIVE ADULT ENTERTAINMENT LEGAL NOTICES

BC Cancer Foundation 2410 Lee Avenue Victoria, BC V8R 6V5 250.519.5550 bccancerfoundation.com

AGREEMENT

It is agreed by any display or Classified Advertiser requesting space that the liability of the paper in the event of failure to publish an advertisement shall be limited to the amount paid by the advertiser for that portion of the advertising space occupied by the incorrect item only, and that there shall be no liability in any event beyond the amount paid for such advertisement. The publisher shall not be liable for slight changes or typographical errors that do not lessen the value of an advertisement.

Supporting the BC Cancer Agency

COMMUNITY ANNOUNCEMENTS INFORMATION

TRAVEL GETAWAYS PARKSVILLE. HOLIDAY vacation cottage. Nightly, weekly, monthly. Mins to beach & shopping. Call (250)248-4902.

BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES ESTABLISHED FITNESS Franchise For Sale, steady monthly revenue. For more information, 250-723-7508 or email: velmeas@telus.net

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES THE S&A Group is currently looking for a professional and eager Administrative Assistant for a rapidly expanding company in Vancouver,BC! -Data Entry -Schedule meetings Answer and direct phone calls -Prepare scheduled reports -Filing, faxing, scanning, email correspondences -Strong use of Microsoft Office and other office management systems Job Requirements - -Must have Microsoft office experience -1-2+ years administrative assistant experience -Provide exceptional customer service -Must have good organization skills -Multi-task in a fast working environment -Must have experience in Excel -Must be able to pass a full background check -Must be computer literate Starting Pay is $27.00 - $29.00 p/hour. Paid Holidays and benefits after 90 days. Please send your resume to : daveclaerhout11@hotmail.com

DISCRIMINATORY LEGISLATION

Copyright and/or properties subsist in all advertisements and in all other material appearing in this edition of Used.ca.

Permission to reproduce wholly or in part and in any form whatsoever, particularly by a photographic or offset process in a publication must be obtained in writing from the publisher. Any unauthorized reproduction will be subject to recourse in law.

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The Oak Bay News and the Victoria News are looking to hire Zone Checkers to service our growing distribution needs in Victoria (North Park/Oaklands) and Oak Bay. The right candidates must have excellent communication and organizational skills.

Basic knowledge of MS Word, Excel and Outlook Express is recommended. Your attention to detail and ability to work with minimal supervision sets you apart from other applicants.

Duties include supervision of newspaper carriers, recruitment and hiring of new carriers, canvassing new areas of delivery, monitoring carrier performance and follow-up on reader delivery concerns. A reliable vehicle is a must. A Vulnerable Sector Criminal Record Check is also mandatory. These part-time positions are ideal for applicants available for afternoon and weekend shifts. Please email your resume to Cindy Brown, Victoria and Oak Bay News Circulation Coordinator: circulation@vicnews.com No phone calls please.

Rae Bilash CertiďŹ ed Practitioner www.raebilash.ca raebilash@shaw.ca 250-380-8733

FINANCIAL SERVICES

CAREER OPPORTUNITIES

LEGALS WAREHOUSEMAN’S LIEN ACT Notice is hereby given that Kustom Towing, (2009) Ltd, 3297 Douglas St, Victoria, BC, V8Z 3K9 will be selling: 2004 PONTIAC SUNFIRE 1G2JB12F047307384 Owner I. Britski 1993 FORD BRONCO

1FMEU15N4PLA69041 Owner J. Williams Will be sold on January 4, 2016. At 647B Dupplin Rd, Victoria, BC between 10am-2pm.

CLASSIFIED ADS WORK! Call 250.388.3535

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PROFESSIONAL/ MANAGEMENT

Used.ca reserves the right to revise, edit, classify or reject any advertisement and to retain any answers directed to the Used.ca Box Reply Service and to repay the customer the sum paid for the advertisement and box rental.

COPYRIGHT

FOUND WOMEN’S wedding rings in Sidney Save on Foods Dec 2, 5pm. Call with identifying characteristics to claim.

(250)654-0288.

LOST SILVER Figural ring in Sidney or Central Saanich, sadly missed. If found please call (250)656-3741.

Used.ca cannot be responsible for errors after the first day of publication of any advertisement.

Notice of errors on the first day should immediately be called to the attention of the Classified Department to be corrected for the following edition.

Advertisers are reminded that Provincial legislation forbids the publication of any advertisement which discriminates against any person because of race, religion, sex, color, nationality, ancestry or place of origin, or age, unless the condition is justified by a bona fide requirement for the work involved.

LOST AND FOUND

SELL IT IN 3 OR IT RUNS FOR FREE!* Place your private party automotive ad with us in one of our Greater Victoria

VOLUNTEERS BIG BROTHERS Big Sisters seeks mentors aged 19 to 30, for their Go Girls! program from January to April. The program helps girls, aged 9 to 14, enhance their self-confidence, self-esteem & knowledge about the benefits of physical activity, healthy eating, and positive self-image. Mentors are women passionate about positively shaping the lives of girls and setting them on a path to reach their potential.

Training is provided and mentors work in teams of two or three. Call 250-386-2269.

3%,,Ă–)4Ă–&!34Ă–7)4(Ă–#,!33)&)%$3

EDUCATION/TRADE SCHOOLS

EDUCATION/TRADE SCHOOLS

CANADA’S TEMPERANCE Foundation seeks volunteers for two events. One is its Dry Jan Scavenger Hunt on January 16 that begins and ends at Beacon Hill Park. The other is the Wrap Up and Foot Golf event at Cedar Hill golf Course on January 20. Call 250-3862269.

KƉĞŜ ,ŽƾĆ?Ğ͏ Ä‚ĆŒÄžÄžĆŒ /ĹśÄ¨Ĺ˝ĆŒĹľÄ‚Ć&#x;ŽŜ ^ÄžĆ?Ć?Ĺ?ŽŜ dĹšĆľĆŒĆ?ĚĂLJ :Ä‚ĹśĆľÄ‚ĆŒÇ‡ Ď­Ď°Í• ώϏϭϲ ĎŻ Í´ ϳƉž sÄ‚ĹśÄ?Ĺ˝ĆľÇ€ÄžĆŒ ĂžƉƾĆ? Í´ ĎŽĎŹĎŹ EĞůĆ?ŽŜ ^ĆšĆŒÄžÄžĆš

EARLY MUSIC Society of the Islands, one of North America’s most active and successful early music specialists, seeks an assistant to work with the fundraising director to develop and implement a fundraising strategy for the Society. Please contact Judith Carder at 250-391-9480 for more information.

PERSONAL SERVICES

EDUCATION/TRADE SCHOOLS

Íť >ÄžÄ‚ĆŒĹś Ä‚Ä?Žƾƚ Ĺ˝ĆľĆŒ ,ĞĂůƚŚ Ä‚ĆŒÄž Ć?Ć?Ĺ?Ć?ƚĂŜƚ Ć‰ĆŒĹ˝Ĺ?ĆŒÄ‚Ĺľ ĂŜĚ Ĺ˝ĆšĹšÄžĆŒ Ä?Ä‚ĆŒÄžÄžĆŒ ĚĞǀĞůŽƉžĞŜƚ ŽƉĆ&#x;ŽŜĆ? Íť DĞĞƚ Žƾƚ Ĺ?ĹśĆ?ĆšĆŒĆľÄ?ĆšĹ˝ĆŒĆ? ĂŜĚ ƉĂĆ?Ćš Ĺ?ĆŒÄ‚ÄšĆľÄ‚ĆšÄžĆ? • Try out a class Íť dÄ‚ĹŹÄž Ä‚ Ä?ĂžƉƾĆ? ĆšĹ˝ĆľĆŒ

W>h^

ĹśĆšÄžĆŒ Ĺ?Ĺś ƚŚĞ ÄšĆŒÄ‚Ç Ä¨Ĺ˝ĆŒ Ä‚ Ä?ŚĂŜÄ?Äž ƚŽ Ç Ĺ?Ĺś Ä‚ ΨϹϏϏ dĆľĹ?Ć&#x;ŽŜ ĆŒÄžÄšĹ?ƚ͊

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•

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ŜĂĆ&#x;ŽŜĂů ĹśÄžĆšÇ Ĺ˝ĆŒĹŹ ŽĨ ĹśĹ˝ĆšÍ˛Ä¨Ĺ˝ĆŒÍ˛Ć‰ĆŒĹ˝ÄŽĆš Ć‰ĆŒĹ?ǀĂƚĞ ǀŽÄ?Ä‚Ć&#x;ŽŜĂů Ć?Ä?ŚŽŽůĆ? ĚĞĚĹ?Ä?ĂƚĞĚ ƚŽ ĞdžÄ?ĞůůĞŜÄ?Äž Ĺ?Ĺś ĞĚƾÄ?Ä‚Ć&#x;ŽŜ ĂŜĚ Ć?Ć‰ĆŒÄžÄ‚ÄšĹ?ĹśĹ? Ä?ƾƍŜĹ? ĞĚĹ?Äž ĹŹĹśĹ˝Ç ĹŻÄžÄšĹ?Ğ͘

www.vicnews.com A17 www.vicnews.com •A17

VICTORIA NEWSFri, -Friday, Victoria News Dec December 18, 201518, 2015 PERSONAL SERVICES

MERCHANDISE FOR SALE

RENTALS

FINANCIAL SERVICES

MISCELLANEOUS FOR SALE

APARTMENT/CONDO

LEGO, 4.5lbs, 2 bins & 5 instruction books, $50. Exercise ball & book, $10. Call (250)477-6390.

PARKSVILLE’S EMERALD Estates offers a unique style of Supportive Living for 50+ age.

1-bdrm patio suite. Available Dec 1st. $1,200/month. Call Lynn (250)303-0098.

$500 loans and more No credit checks

1-877-776-1660 Apply at moneyprovider.com INCOME TAX PROBLEMS? Have you been audited, reassessed or disallowed certain claims by Canada Revenue Agency? Call Bob Allen @ 1250-542-0295 35yrs. Income Tax experience, 8.5yrs. with Revenue Canada. Email: r.gallen@shaw.ca C- 250-938-1944

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

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ROMANCE Your Christmas Local BC Adult Retailer Shop Online Now & Receive 25% OFF! www.shagg.ca WALL FIREPLACE, modern, new, paid $450 asking $250.

Call (250)656-0708.

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

REAL ESTATE REAL ESTATE SERVICES

MISCELLANEOUS FOR RENT PARKING SPACE near Lansdowne Camosun College. 3 min. walk to campus. Only $75/mo. Save $55/mo (or more for long-term). Chris, 250-595-0370.

Make a grocery list together—kids check off the items.

#6

TRANSPORTATION AUTO SERVICES FREE REMOVAL of all vehicles, cash paid for some. Any condition. Call (250)889-5383

CARS 2009 PONTIAC Vibe- charcoal grey, black interior, 4cylinder auto, A/C, cruise, P/W, extra options. 52,353km, exc cond. $10,200. (250)580-4104.

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LONESOME DOVE 6 hr VHS Western, new in package, $12. Call (250)383-5390.

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Make family time learning time.

When you place a print classified here, it’s also posted online at Used.ca.

FUEL/FIREWOOD

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How do you learn as a family?

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MISCELLANEOUS FOR SALE KENWOOD EXCELON KFCX693 6X9 300 Watt 3-way car speakers. Brand new, , never opened, save $100+. $120.

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Service Directory

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Complete guide to professional services in your community

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

GARDENING

GARDENING

HANDYPERSONS

HAULING AND SALVAGE

MOVING & STORAGE

PLUMBING

AFFORDABLE, EFFICIENT bookkeeping or Payroll Services avail. Call (250)858-5370.

20% OFF! Raking, mowing pruning, hedge/shrub trim, yard cleanup. (250)479-6495.

Done Right Moving $85/hr.

A+ BBB. Senior Disc. No travel time before/after local moves. Penny 250-418-1747

FREE ESTIMATES. Reasonable. Reliable. No job too small. Call 250-388-5544.

BIG BEAR Handyman.

Decks, Painting, Repairs. Free estimate. Barry 250-896-6071.

CLEANUP SPECIALS! Full yard maintenance. Home construction/reno’s etc. Call Chad 250-507-9933 for more info.

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

JEREMIAH’S CARPENTRY Interior finish, weather proofing, decks, fences, laminate flrs, sm jobs. Reasonable. Insured. 250-857-1269. www.jeremiahscarpentry.com

CLEANING SERVICES CLEAN YOUR HOME with hard work & care. Ref’s. Reasonable rate. (250)893-2502 EXPERIENCED HOUSEKEEPER- Reliable. Call 250920-6516, 250-881-7444.

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

KENDRA’S ELECTRICAL Company.

Res/Com. Lic #86952. Call 250-415-7991.

NORTHERN SUN Electric Comm/Res. Work Guaranteed. Any size job. Call (250)888-6160. Lic#13981.

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

GARDEN OVERGROWN? Cleanups, lawn cuts, pruning, blackberry clearing. Call John 250-478-7314, 250-812-8236.

GREAT TIME for pruning.

Fruit, ornamental & native trees. Call Max for results.

Senior disc. 250-634-0347.

MIKE’S LAWN and Garden.

Clean-ups, weeding, painting & more. Senior’s discounts.

Free estimates. 250-216-7502.

LOCALS

buy and sell here Call 250-388-3535

ALFRED, ALFRED Quality Painting.

Wholesale, Discounts! 50 years experience.

250-382-3694.

HOUSE & Yard repairs. no job too small. OAP Discounts, free est. Andy, 250-886-3383.

(250) 858-0588 - Lawn & garden maint.

- Landscaping - Fences & Decks - Hedge & Tree Services - Pressure Washing Free estimates * WCB www.mowtime.ca DPM SERVICES- lawn & garden, seasonal pruning, clean ups, landscape, power wash, etc. 15yrs exp. (250)883-8141.

PAINTING

RENO SPECIALIST- Carpentry, drywall, plumbing, tiling electric. Kitchen & bath. 20yrs exp. Fully insured. Alain 250744-8453. www.justrenoz.com

GUTTERS & DOWNSPOUTS 250-380-7778 GRAND Xterior Cleaning. Repairs, Gutters, de-moss, roofs windows, PWash, Christmas lights.

250-507-6543.

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

(250)889-5794.

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

ABBA Exteriors Inc. ‘Winter Clean-Up Specials’ Gutter & Window Cleaning Concrete Power Washing Vinyl Siding Cleaning Roof Sweep & De-Mossing Carpentry * Yard Cleanup Handyman Repairs Free Estimates WCB Insured, BBB Certified; Now accepting Visa/ MC *Seniors Discounts* (778)433-9275 www.abbaexteriors.ca Locally owned Family business

HAULING AND SALVAGE $20 & Up Garbage & Garden waste removal. Senior Disc.

Free estimates. 250-812-2279.

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

Call 250-361-6164.

JUNK BOX- Junk Removal Company. Local guys. Low rates. Call (250)658-3944.

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

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

Brad 250-217-9578.

DO YOU OFFER HOME SERVICES?

Don’t be missed, our readers are looking for you!

250-388-3535

Refuse Sam

✓Garbage Removal ✓O.A.P Rates Attics, Basements, Compost, Construction Clean up, Demolition

Fast & Friendly Service

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

HIGH QUALITY and FAST. Professional Painting. $20./hr.

Free est. Glenn 778-967-3607.

.

Call Craig or Mike 250-216-5865 .

MASONRY & BRICKWORK CBS MASONRY BBB. WCB. Chimneys, fireplaces,flagstone rock, concrete, natural & veneered stone. Replace, rebuild, restore, renew! Free competitive est. www.cbsmasonry.com; Call (250)5899942, (250)294-9942.

RAIN HAPPENS Landscape & Stonework. Wishing all Happy Holidays! (250)-920-5108.

MOVING & STORAGE (250)858-6747. WRIGHT Bros Moving & Hauling. Free Est $75=(2men&3tontruck)Sr Disc. ✱✱Happy Holidays✱✱

SAFEWAY PAINTING

High quality, Organized.

Interior/Exterior Residential/Commercial Jeff, 250-889-7715 or 250-472-6660 Member BBB

PRESSURE WASHING DRIVEWAYS, WALKWAYS, Decks, etc. Reasonable rates.

250-744-8588, Norm.

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

or

NEEDS mine.

WINDOW CLEANING 250-380-7778 GRAND Xterior Cleaning. Repairs, Gutters, de-moss, roofs windows, PWash, Christmas lights.

ABBA EXTERIORS

Professional gutter cleaning & repairs. Window cleaning.

Roof de-mossing, package discounts. “Locally owned Family business”.

WCB, BBB Certified; Now accepting Visa/ MasterCard. (778)433-9275.

DAVE’S WINDOW Cleaning.

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

ALL YOU NEED IN PRINT AND ONLINE

250-388-3535

HomeFinder

A18 • • www.vicnews.com www.vicnews.com A18

Exceptional service… outstanding results

Friday, December December 18, 18, 2015 2015 -- VICTORIA VICTORIA Friday,

P: 250-477-1100 C: 250-588-2852 tarahearn.com tara@tarahearn.com

SHARE YOUR EXPERIENCES IN BUYING AND SELLING YOUR HOME The Victoria News is looking to help tell your stories about buying and selling your home — whether you are a first-time home buyer or a senior couple looking to downsize.

You can call Kendra Wong at 250-480-3238 or email editor@ vicnews.com to share your ideas.

To advertise in HomeFinder, call Oliver Sommer at Email: osommer@ blackpress.ca

NEWS NEWS

Find a place to call home

Housing boom in downtown core Nearly 1,000 units to be added by 2018 Kevin Underhill Victoria News

Residents can get ready for a new-look, new-feel Victoria, as nearly 1,000 housing units are set to be added to the downtown landscape by 2018.

The explosion in downtown residential development is long overdue according to Kathy Hogan, executive director of the Urban Development Institute Capital Region.

“What we’re seeing here is what happened to Vancouver in the early 90s,” she said adding that every major city in North America has seen the same shift.

“People want to move into

downtown where they can walk everywhere.”

The housing developments, including a 53-unit apartment complex on the 500 block of Pandora Avenue and the 209-unit project spanning the 800 block between Yates and View streets, are going to transform the feeling of the downtown core.

Ken Kelly, general manager of the Downtown Victoria Business Association, is thrilled to see all the action and can already feel the impact of development.

“The 500 block of Pandora is the most transformed block in downtown,” he said. “Things could not be more exciting right now.”

In an already red-hot Victoria real estate market, a need for purpose-built downtown homes is driv-

“The downtown core defines the city. It is the embodiment of Victoria. The developments we are seeing are going to be a real plus for the entire region.”

— Ken Kelly

ing investors to back these construction projects.

Developers and investors are seeing who is moving into downtown and building based on that research.

“We’re seeing a lot of younger people who aren’t looking to buy homes,” Hogan said. “And then there are older people whose kids have moved out and they are looking to downsize.”

The result: a boom in purpose-built rental homes.

“The developers know that young people can’t afford to buy so we’re see-

ing multi-family homes being built to fill that need,” Hogan said.

The densification of the downtown area can lead to positive impacts on the environment as well. There is less need for cars as everything can be within walking distance.

As the densification increases, the commercial and retail activity will likely pick up as well.

“Generally when the development industry is busy, that means the economy is doing well,” Hogan said, noting that the increased developments

means a higher demands for trades as well.

Kelly, the ever-optimist, said the new downtown will transform what people think of Victoria and the Island.

“The downtown core defines the city. It is the embodiment of Victoria,” Kelly said. “The developments we are seeing are going to be a real plus for the entire region.” intern@vicnews.com

Let us know Have a newsworthy item for the Victoria News? If it involves a community event or other endeavour in Victoria or Esquimalt, send it along for consideration. Fax the information to 250-386-2624 or email it to editor@vicnews. com. For further information, please call the editor at 250480-3265.

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

VICTORIA December 18, 2015 VICTORIA NEWS NEWS -Friday, -Friday, December 18, 2015

Community Calendar Saturday, Dec. 19

Monday, Dec. 21

Santa Scoot in Market Square. Watch a parade of Vespas and vintage scooters as they make their way through city streets collecting donations. Riders will then rally at Market Square for a pizza party.

One dollar from every pizza sold at Famoso Neapolitan Pizzeria will go to charity. Info: Tourism Victoria.

Victoria Philharmonic Choir is hosting its seventh annual family Christmas carol singalong, conducted

by Peter Butterfield, accompanied by organist Michael Molnar and the five-member ensemble, Brasstastic. The Sing-along takes place at St. Mary the Virgin Church (1701 Elgin Rd.) Doors open at 6:30 p.m.

Sunday, Dec. 20

Thursday, Dec. 24

Uncle Wiggly’s Tribute to the Blues Songs of Christmas with David Vest at the Alix Goolden Hall (907 Pandora Ave.) They will perform Christmas blues songs from the 20s through to the 60s. Tickets available at the McPherson Box office.

Vox Humana Chamber Choir is presenting A Child’s Christmas in Whales at Alix Goolden Performance Hall (907 Pandora Ave.) Show begins at 2:30 p.m., doors open at 2 p.m. Pay what you can at the door.

Victoria Public Market Sunday Brunch. The Ruby will be serving brunch out of the community kitchen every Sunday from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. They will be spinning vinyl throughout brunch as well.

Victoria Historical Society presents “Ogden Point Terminal — Decoding its puzzling history with Doug Rhodes” at James Bay New Horizons (230 Menzies St.) Info: victoriahistoricalsociety. bc.ca.

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From left, Victoria High School #24 Chris Niketas collides with Pacific Christian Schools #22 Calvin Xu as they go for the ball during senior boys basketball action in the PCS gym Tuesday night. The final score was 58-50 in favour of PCS. It was the final game before the Christmas break, basketball play resumes in the new year as Vic High faces Stellys on Jan. 5.

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Friday, December 18, 2015 - VICTORIA

NEWS

Driveway • B1

BLACK PRESS GREATER VICTORIA-Friday, December 18, 2015

DrivewayCanada.ca D rivewayCanada.ca |

Dash cam onboard camera systems

Piloti Mille driving shoes

High output adaptors

Dash cams at top of motorist gift lists filled with techno gadgets Santa will doubtless be dashing about delivering dash cams by the dozen, as they are top of many gift wish lists this year.

Most people see the onboard cameras, which continuously record the driver’s view of the road through the windshield, as a great way of gathering video evidence in the event of a collision.

Internet websites featuring often hair-raising video of dramatic crashes are drawing viewers in their millions. Thousands of eyewitness videos featuring car crashes, narrow escapes, and even staged crashes designed to commit insurance fraud have been uploaded to YouTube, Facebook, Twitter and dash cam dedicated websites.

The cheapest units start from as little as $30 but as is always the case with technology, you only get what you pay for. Testing by the Driveway team shows that for less than $100, you can get a serviceable camera for your car.

However, if you want to install a more sophisticated version that records such information as date/time, speed, G-forces and location then get ready to spend more than $200. Yours truly bought a BlackVue DR3500-Full HD system, which retails for more than $400. I would recommend it for commercial fleets and people like me who want to record trips for

editing into vacation videos or, in my case, test car MP3 players through USB ports. Even late models may video reports. only have one USB plug in.

Rick Francouer, president of 360 Fabrication in AbbotsRocketek Canada is one of many brands now selling ford, customized mine for easy and quick installation high output adaptors that use cigarette lighter in different test vehicles. He recommends that no slots to supply power to devices such as GPS Navimatter what the unit costs professional installation is gation unit. For under $20, it plugs into the lighter advisable to ensure it doesn’t fail when you need it. slot and duplicates it, providing two slots for devices “We’ve seen a dramatic increase in the number of to draw direct power plus two additional USB slots. people, of all ages and all walks of life, installing I’ve used mine around the world with great success, systems, and the reason is simple, there enabling me to run mobile navigation are so many acts of stupidity on the road devices and play my iPod through every day, protecting yourself with a viaudio systems via the Auxiliary Input sual record of your good driving habits is point. important in disputes with other drivers Factory installed navigation systems or your insurance agency. can add thousands to your new car’s “We have dozens of clients who have sticker price. Your local electronics made a $300 investment that’s paid tens warehouse of choice will put you on of thousands in dividends when they are the road with a guidance unit for less able to prove innocence in a disputed than $200.

Internet websites accident. In many jurisdictions, visual eviTwo more ideas. There are no shortage dence is preferable to spoken testimony.” featuring often of books for auto enthusiasts but ICBC spokesman Joanna Linsangan hair-raising video if you are looking for a fun read try admits dash cams provide useful inforof dramatic crashes Driven Mind by Garry Sowerby, who mation but cautions drivers do not to rely along with his wife Lisa Calvi occatoo much on footage as it’s not admissi- are drawing viewers sionally appears in these pages. Garry in their millions. ble as evidence in court. is an ‘adventure driver’ and his book “We will take a look at anything that records 50 great stories about his road Keith Morgan drivers can provide in evidence and every trips around the world (Published by once a while we do see dash cam footOdyssey International ISBN 978-0-9733358-1-1 at $20 age. But this technology is susceptible to manipulation - http://adventuredrive.ca/drivenmind). and provides only a narrow view.”

Finally, driving shoes. Yes, there is such a thing and A written report on such things as weather conditions I have three pairs. Watch for a more detailed analysis and all circumstances are still extremely important of their value to everyday drivers in the New Year but when filing a claim. check out these beauties now. Piloti has a large range While looking at dashcams we came across some selling for around $150 but these Luxury Mille shoes other techno gadgets in demand which last minute are to die for at $400 a pair! gift shoppers might want to consider. Older cars are keith.morgan@drivewaybc.ca rarely designed to power today’s smart phones and

‘‘

’’

Find quality employees.

Question of the Week Have you bought an auto-related gift this year? What and for whom? We promised we won’t publish details until after December 25!

Go to DrivewayCanada.ca for the question of the week

?

QUESTION OF THE WEEK!

Safety Tip: If your holiday plans include a road trip, give yourself extra time in case of traffic or challenging road conditions. Prepare for your trip by visiting drivebc.ca to view the latest road and weather conditions.

follow us…

WINTER

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/Driveway @DrivewayCanada

B2 • Driveway

BLACK PRESS GREATER VICTORIA

Friday, December 18, 2015

DrivewayBC.ca

Boogie on down with the Nissan LEAF fifth birthday playlist

By Keith Morgan

in a unique way as we celebrate LEAF’s anniversary, so we asked followers on

Nissan has launched a Spotify playlist specially curated by LEAF fans around the world in celebration of the fifth anniversary of the delivery of the world’s first all-electric Nissan LEAF. “Nissan LEAF owners are among our most enthusiastic customers, and we wanted to get them involved

songs they would choose to honour the all-electric vehicle’s five years on

“

The first all-electric Nissan LEAF was delivered in December 2010, and since then Nissan has become the world’s leader in electric vehicle sales with nearly 200,000 allelectric LEAF vehicles sold globally.

”

Facebook and Twitter which

the road,” said Andrew

Speaker, director, Electric Vehicle Sales & Marketing, Nissan. “With suggestions ranging from No. 1 hits to obscure B-side tracks, LEAF fans helped us cultivate the perfect soundtrack for this occasion.”

Users can search for the “100% Nissan LEAF 5th Birthday” playlist on Spotify and enjoy 10 fan-suggested songs that can be streamed via the Bluetooth connection in the Nissan LEAF or other Nissan models.

The first all-electric Nissan LEAF was delivered on December 2010, and since then Nissan has become the world’s leader in electric vehicle sales with nearly 200,000 all-electric LEAF vehicles sold globally.

Nissan recently introduced the new 2016 LEAF, which has available best-in-class range of 172 kms, making it the first EV in its price

WELL-EQUIPPED FROM

28,190

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ACCESSORY CREDIT

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LET IT SNOW. (AND SLEET. AND RAIN. AND SHINE.) ‡Ratings are awarded by the Insurance Institute for Highway Safety (IIHS) Please visit www.iihs.org for testing methods. *Pricing applies to a 2016 Forester (GJ1 XO) with MSRP of $28,190 including freight & PDI ($1,675), documentation fees ($395), tire tax ($25) and Air Conditioning Tax ($100). License, taxes, insurance and registration extra. Dealers may sell for less. Dealer order/trade may be necessary. Model shown is a 2016 Forester 2.0XT Limited Package (GJ2XTL) with MSRP of $38,990 including freight & PDI ($1,675), documentation fees ($395), tire tax ($25) and Air Conditioning Tax ($100). License, taxes, insurance and registration extra. Vehicle shown solely for purpose of illustration, and may not be equipped exactly as shown. **0.5% lease/ nance rates available on all new 2016 Forester models for a 24-month term. Financing and leasing programs available through Toyota Credit Canada Inc. on approved credit. ***$500 Holiday Bonus Accessories offer applies to lease, nance and cash agreements for select new 2015 and 2016 Subaru models and can be combined with Stackable Cash and Alternate Cash offers. **/***Offers valid until November 30th, 2015. See your local Subaru dealer or visit www.western.subarudealer.ca for complete program details.

VISIT SAUNDERS.SUBARUDEALER.CA Pet friendly & the coffee is always on!

Serving Vancouver Island for over 35 years.

segment to get more than 160 kms on a single charge.

The 2016 Nissan LEAF has a starting price of $32,000 but in BC, purchase attracts a $5,000 incentive discount.

Learn more about the all-electric Nissan LEAF at NissanUSA.com/LEAF, and follow the “100% Nissan LEAF 5th Birthday” playlist on Spotify. keith.morgan@drivewaybc. ca

SAUNDERS SUBARU 1784 Island Highway, Colwood

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Local news.

Local shopping.

Your local paper.

Driveway • B3

BLACK PRESS GREATER VICTORIA-Friday, December 18, 2015

Christmas Specials

We are offering Daily Lunch Specials, a Daily “Fresh Sheet” as well as a nightly $21 Turkey Dinner from now until Christmas.

New Years Eve at Route 14 - 8oz AAA Prime Rib Dinner with Roast Garlic Mashed Potatoes, Seasonal Vegetables, Yorkshire Pudding, Red Wine Demi Glace or Dijon Mustard for $24.

Make it a 3 course meal with Soup or Salad & Dessert for $32

Book your Christmas Party Now!

#6 Make a grocery list together—kids check off the items.

Monday:

Fish ‘n Chips – 1 piece $10 2 piece $15, 11:30-4pm 20oz Lucky PINTS $5

Tuesday:

Route 14 Reuben – $11.95, 11:30-4pm 20oz Blue Buck PINTS - $5 All Day

Wednesday: Pasta Day – $12.95 Pasta, 11:30-4pm 20oz Race Rocks PINTS – $5 All Day

How do you learn as a family?

Tell us #FamilyLiteracyDay

Make family time learning time.

Find more activities you can do as a family at www.FamilyLiteracyDay.ca

Thursday:

WING DAY! $8.95, Wings All Day 20oz Guinness PINTS – $6.75 All Day

Friday:

Beef Melt – $11.95, 11:30-4:pm “Bud” Bottles – $4.50 All Day

Saturday:

Curry Lunch Special - $12.95, 11:30-4pm Lucky Bottles – $4.50 All Day

Sunday:

Mussels – $10, All Day Glasses of House Wine - $6 All Day

Check out our Menu on our Facebook Page and Like us!

Scan for 15 Minutes of Fun

e k o o S

6686 Sooke Rd. I 778.352.1414

Visit

It’s more than

r!

you remembe

If you haven’t been to Sooke lately, you don’t know what you’re missing.

Over the last several months, Sooke has undergone a metamorphosis with a multi-million-dollar town centre project now complete, centered with a state-of-the-art roundabout.

All the changes have created a new energy and vibe throughout the community.

Sooke’s popularity as a scenic tourist and arts community has existed for generations. Now the town’s other attractions are coming to the forefront from shopping, galleries to fine dining.

The Sooke Region is home to an energetic and talented pool of artists, artisans and craftspeople inspired by the wild and beautiful coastline. Well-known destinations in Sooke, such as Whiffin Spit Park, Sooke Potholes Regional Park and the adjacent Sooke Potholes Provincial Park attract visitors both locally and from around the world.

Travel anywhere throughout the region and you will come across artists’ studios and spaces where fine arts are displayed and sold. The area is well known for its woodworkers and sculptors, metal and fibre artists.

But there’s so much more to Sooke.

Sooke is the perfect spot for a family day or date night.

You can start with a walk along the Whiffin Spit, boardwalk or at one of the region’s many galleries. Follow it up with lunch (or dinner) at one of the town’s fine restaurants and finish it up with shopping at some of the town’s boutique shops.

And if you’re really adventurous take a day to explore the many trail and regional parks by hike, bike – or running in the area.

Whatever you choose, your time will be time well spent in Sooke.

Fine Dining - Sooke offers some of the finest restaurants in the Capital Region from world-renowned Sooke Harbour House to the Prestige Hotel and a few home-grown treasures.

Dining & Cafés - If you’re looking for

traditional or not-so traditional food to whet your appetite, Sooke has a diverse array of gastronomic options. Canadian classics are served up right next to Chinese,

Japanese and other ethnic foods – and all within walking distance of the town centre.

Many of Sooke’s restaurants incorporate locally caught seafood and local produce, creating a made-at-home foodie delight.

Shopping - Looking for a different shopping experience? Sooke has many unique boutique stores to satisfy shoppers.

Check out Sooke’s stores and marketplaces for the latest fashions and fabulous deals.

Arts & Culture - If you’re an arts lover, you’ll feel right at home. The community’s rich arts and culture background has helped produce a spectrum of artistic expression and a thriving creative community.

Activities - Bike on the historical Gal-

loping Goose Trail. Walk in the shade of old growth rainforest. Paddle in the sheltered waters of Sooke Harbour & Basin. Zipline.

Fish Surf. Whale Watch.

B4 • Driveway

Friday, December 18, 2015 - BLACK

Mon.-Thurs. 9am - 8pm; Fri. & Sat. 9am-6pm Sun. 10am-4pm

AND THE FIRST PAYMENT IS ON US!

With every vehicle purchased, a fantastic holiday feast hamper will go to a local family in need or crisis this holiday season.

Turkey, stuffing, gravy, veggies, cookies, pies, milk, egg nog, candies and all the fixings for a memorable Christmas breakfast to ensure that local families can enjoy the full spirit of Christmas... all due to your support and valued patronage.

It’s simply our way of giving back to the community that has supported us so well over the years... and you too should feel the warmth in your heart for being a part of something that’s sure to make a difference in the lives of local families...

Many thanks to all for your support and have a

! y a d o t *

IT 'S T H AT E A SY!

Divorce? Bankruptcy? Bad Credit? No Credit? No Problem, We Can Help.

SHOW US TWO PAYSTUBS & YOU’RE APPROVED! MEAN

Very Merry Christmas!

QUICK & EASY CREDIT APPROVAL @ GALAXYMOTORS.NET

NEED EXTRA CASH? ASK US HOW!

FREEDOM WAY

1

6 TIME WINNER

VICTORIA NEWS

VANCOUVER ISLAND’S #1 USED CAR DEALER

st

21

#1 IN PRE-OWNED

FINANCE OPTIONS

*SOME RESTRICTIONS APPLY AS NOT ALL LENDERS PROGRAMS WILL SUPPORT THIS OFFER, ON APPROVED CREDIT. SEE DEALER FOR DETAILS,

STREET

Voted

Best City

of the

R YEA

!

E V EN IN T H E R AIN

NO PAYMENTS FOR 90 DAYS!

y a d o t y u b e m o h e v dri

WE VAPORIZE BAD CREDIT

2015

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PRICES IN EFFECT UNTIL DECEMBER 23, 2015

COLWOOD • NANAIMO • DUNCAN • COURTENAY • LANGLEY

NEED A CAR that

250-478-7603

Driveway • B5

BLACK PRESS GREATER VICTORIA- Friday, December 18, 2015

BC’S LARGEST INDEPENDENT USED CAR DEALER!

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK

EARS! SERVING YOU FOR 25 Y

PRESS GREATER VICTORIA

OVER 700 VEHICLES!

16 LENDERS TO CHOOSE FROM

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OUTBACK

ALLEY

KNOW WHAT

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A C CID EN T F R E E!

$13,888

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(+ $499 Documentation Fee & Tax)

2013 DODGE AVENGER SXT 2013 DODGE DART RALLYE Stk #T18537

$14,888 (+ $499 Documentation Fee & Tax)

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK

Stk #V18585

B C O NLY!

$20,888

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2012 CHEVROLET CAMARO LT Stk #T18363

$26,888 (+ $499 Documentation Fee & Tax)

2007 PONTIAC GRANDPRIX

3.99%

Stk #X18515

2012 FORD EDGE SPORT

(+ $499 Documentation Fee & Tax)

FROM

(+ $499 Documentation Fee & Tax)

59

USED WINTER TIRE SALE

$

50

00

95 IN CONJUNCTION WITH THE FALL SPECIAL PROMO

a tire installed plus tax. Call for size availability

Galaxy Service

EXPIRES DECEMBER 23, 2015.

Includes oil and filter change, inspect brakes and suspension system, inspect all filters and hoses. Includes car wash and vacuum. Up to 5 litres oil (synthetic oil and diesels extra)

A.C. SYSTEM CHECK & RECHARGE

$

99

1772 Island Hwy.

www.galaxymotors.net

!

S T N E D I C C A O N

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FALL MAINTENANCE SPECIAL

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Includes freon and leak detection (repairs and diagnosis extra).

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2014 CHEVROLET CRUZE Stk #T18692

$14,888 (+ $499 Documentation Fee & Tax)

2011 JEEP COMPASS Stk #K18090A

DIESEL!

2011 DODGE CARAVAN CARGO Stk #V18679

$19,888

$12,888

(+ $499 Documentation Fee & Tax)

(+ $499 Documentation Fee & Tax)

COLWOOD 250-478-7603 1772 Island Hwy.

DL #30897

B4 • Driveway

Friday, December 18, 2015 - BLACK

Mon.-Thurs. 9am - 8pm; Fri. & Sat. 9am-6pm Sun. 10am-4pm

AND THE FIRST PAYMENT IS ON US!

With every vehicle purchased, a fantastic holiday feast hamper will go to a local family in need or crisis this holiday season.

Turkey, stuffing, gravy, veggies, cookies, pies, milk, egg nog, candies and all the fixings for a memorable Christmas breakfast to ensure that local families can enjoy the full spirit of Christmas... all due to your support and valued patronage.

It’s simply our way of giving back to the community that has supported us so well over the years... and you too should feel the warmth in your heart for being a part of something that’s sure to make a difference in the lives of local families...

Many thanks to all for your support and have a

! y a d o t *

IT 'S T H AT E A SY!

Divorce? Bankruptcy? Bad Credit? No Credit? No Problem, We Can Help.

SHOW US TWO PAYSTUBS & YOU’RE APPROVED! MEAN

Very Merry Christmas!

QUICK & EASY CREDIT APPROVAL @ GALAXYMOTORS.NET

NEED EXTRA CASH? ASK US HOW!

FREEDOM WAY

1

6 TIME WINNER

VICTORIA NEWS

VANCOUVER ISLAND’S #1 USED CAR DEALER

st

21

#1 IN PRE-OWNED

FINANCE OPTIONS

*SOME RESTRICTIONS APPLY AS NOT ALL LENDERS PROGRAMS WILL SUPPORT THIS OFFER, ON APPROVED CREDIT. SEE DEALER FOR DETAILS,

STREET

Voted

Best City

of the

R YEA

!

E V EN IN T H E R AIN

NO PAYMENTS FOR 90 DAYS!

y a d o t y u b e m o h e v dri

WE VAPORIZE BAD CREDIT

2015

!

S K R WO

Help Families This Holiday Season

PRICES IN EFFECT UNTIL DECEMBER 23, 2015

COLWOOD • NANAIMO • DUNCAN • COURTENAY • LANGLEY

NEED A CAR that

250-478-7603

Driveway • B5

BLACK PRESS GREATER VICTORIA- Friday, December 18, 2015

BC’S LARGEST INDEPENDENT USED CAR DEALER!

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK

EARS! SERVING YOU FOR 25 Y

PRESS GREATER VICTORIA

OVER 700 VEHICLES!

16 LENDERS TO CHOOSE FROM

SENSIBLE STREET

OUTBACK

ALLEY

KNOW WHAT

YES!

FEELS LIKE!

A C CID EN T F R E E!

$13,888

B C O NLY!

(+ $499 Documentation Fee & Tax)

2013 DODGE AVENGER SXT 2013 DODGE DART RALLYE Stk #T18537

$14,888 (+ $499 Documentation Fee & Tax)

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK

Stk #V18585

B C O NLY!

$20,888

RATES

2012 CHEVROLET CAMARO LT Stk #T18363

$26,888 (+ $499 Documentation Fee & Tax)

2007 PONTIAC GRANDPRIX

3.99%

Stk #X18515

2012 FORD EDGE SPORT

(+ $499 Documentation Fee & Tax)

FROM

(+ $499 Documentation Fee & Tax)

59

USED WINTER TIRE SALE

$

50

00

95 IN CONJUNCTION WITH THE FALL SPECIAL PROMO

a tire installed plus tax. Call for size availability

Galaxy Service

EXPIRES DECEMBER 23, 2015.

Includes oil and filter change, inspect brakes and suspension system, inspect all filters and hoses. Includes car wash and vacuum. Up to 5 litres oil (synthetic oil and diesels extra)

A.C. SYSTEM CHECK & RECHARGE

$

99

1772 Island Hwy.

www.galaxymotors.net

!

S T N E D I C C A O N

Stk #A17714C2

FALL MAINTENANCE SPECIAL

$

$5,888

95

Includes freon and leak detection (repairs and diagnosis extra).

(250) 478-7603

2014 CHEVROLET CRUZE Stk #T18692

$14,888 (+ $499 Documentation Fee & Tax)

2011 JEEP COMPASS Stk #K18090A

DIESEL!

2011 DODGE CARAVAN CARGO Stk #V18679

$19,888

$12,888

(+ $499 Documentation Fee & Tax)

(+ $499 Documentation Fee & Tax)

COLWOOD 250-478-7603 1772 Island Hwy.

DL #30897

B6 • Driveway

Friday, December 18, 2015 - BLACK

PRESS GREATER VICTORIA

GREAT CHRISTMAS GIFT IDEAS His

Hers

Visit us in-store to see our LARGE ASSORTMENT OF GIFTS FOR THE WHOLE FAMILY

SHOP LOCAL AND STRESS FREE WINTER HOURS in effect - Open weeknights ‘til 6pm SOOKE 6626 Sooke Road 250-642-6366

There’s more online www.sookenewsmirror.com

II SPORTS SPORTS II SOOKENEWSMIRROR.COM SOOKENEWSMIRROR.COM A23 Driveway A23 • B7

WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 16, WEDNESDAY, DECEMBER 16, 2015 2015 -Friday, December 18, 2015 BLACK PRESS GREATER VICTORIA

Fishing Adventures

Fishing’s good if you get off the couch Ron Neitsch Contributed

Yes, saltwater fishing continues for sport fishing enthusiasts in our area.

Poor weather including bone-chilling winds, dark, wet cloud cover and some choppy water have sent some to the couch or even farther in search of comfy warmer conditions.

But there are breaks in the weather, and those getting out on the water are being rewarded with the bounties of the sea.

Salmon, halibut and crab are still in the area and the other boats aren’t.

Winter feeder salmon are right on the bottom just outside the Sooke harbour in 120 to 140 feet of water, easiest trolled with a flasher and an anchovy, hootchy or spoon on a short three-foot leader attached 10 feet behind the downrigger ball.

Halibut fishing has been consistent close to the Sooke harbour mouth in the depths, anchoring in 200 to 250 feet of water, using herring or salmon bellies.

The end of December will close out one

Sooke Saltwater Series of Derbies is going to prove exciting.

In the series standings, Mike Koff in first place, has a not so comfortable five-pound lead, and James Cool, Al Kennedy, and Mike Thompson in second, third and fourth place are separated by less than a pound, and are up for a big piece of the prize action. But wait, it’s fishing, anything can happen! More details online at sookesaltwaterseries.ca.

••• Ron Neitsch is the owner of 2 Reel Fishing Adventures, in Sooke.

of the best halibut seasons I have ever seen.

Crabbing in the harbour has been spotty, but I’m still hearing reports of success from the Rotary Pier and seeing a few in our traps dropped before leaving the harbour for fishing.

A fun on the water upcoming event: The Sooke Sailpast, where local boats decorated in Christmas lights sail in the harbour, Dec. 19 5:30 p.m. near the Prestige hotel, Government dock and Rotary Pier.

On the local derby scene, the Sooke Boxing Day Chinook Derby, the last in the

Branch #54 6726 Eustace Rd. 250-642-5913 General Meeting 4th Tuesday of the month @ 7pm

— Members and Bona Fide Guests —

New Years Eve 31 Dec. 2015 Dinner & Dance Doors Open 6:30 pm• Cocktails til 7 pm • Dance to CURL @ 9:00 pm

Pork Stuffed Tenderloin, Mashed Potatoes, Green Bean Almandine, Creamed Corn, Spinach Salad, Buns and Desserts Tickets $30 (Members) $35 (Non-Members) Alternatives available if requested when purchasing tickets.

Members & Bona Fide Guests Only ~ Sign up sheet for Courtesy Bus behind the bar.

MONDAYS TUESDAYS WEDNESDAYS

THURSDAYS FRIDAYS SUNDAYS

Short Mat Bowl Euchre Drop-in Pool Pool League Ladies’ Darts Dominos NASCAR Shuffleboard Cribbage Short Mat Bowl

1:00 pm 6:30 pm 7-10 pm 7:00 pm Noon 10:00 am 7:00 pm 6:30 pm 7:00 pm 1:00 pm

SUPPORT THE FOOD BANK Donate non-perishable food items

MEAT DRAW

EVERY SATURDAY @ 3:00 PM

Cancelled Dec. 25th See You Jan. 2nd

SUNDAY BREAKFAST BRUNCH 9AM - 12:30PM $5 Children Welcome

Steak Night Tickets @ Bar 1500 FRIDAY

$

KARAOKE

Every Friday 8:00 - 11:00 p.m. with Pete & Megan

ANNIVERSARIES / BIRTHDAYS / GROUP PARTIES WELCOME!

Hosted by Sports Team

6-7:30 PM ONLY

CANCELLED DEC. 25TH & JAN. 1ST

Master Card, Visa and Interac now accepted

DROP IN POOL TOURNAMENT 2 SUNDAY OF EACH MONTH LEGION RIDERS 2 WEDNESDAY OF EACH MONTH AT 7 PM BLUEGRASS 1 & 3 SUNDAYS 3 PM nd

nd

st

Photo by Ron Neitsch/2 Reel Fishing Adventures

Sooke resident Wen Chan out with his family for a winter halibut trip on Nov. 28. Sooke has seen near record numbers of halibut being caught this year.

AUTO CENTER

IT’S COLD OUT THERE! WINTER CHECKUP • Batteries • Wipers • Oil Change • Antifreeze • Lights • Tires Most vehicle makes & models

YOUR COMPLETE AUTO CENTER

2079 OTTER POINT RD. SOOKE

250 642-6665

rd

HAPPY HOUR MON. - SAT. 5-6 PM • ALL HIGHBALLS $3.75 Find us on facebook Sooke Legion branch #54

SOOKEFOURCAST

Your weather forecast for the next FOUR DAYS!

What you need to know about the weather to plan your weekend.

THURSDAY

FRIDAY

SATURDAY

SUNDAY

Rain High 5 Low 5

Chance of a Shower High 6 Low 4

Cloudy with Showers High 6 Low 4

Light Rain High 6 Low 3

Hours of sunshine 0

Hours of sunshine 3

Hours of sunshine 2

Hours of sunshine 1

W W W. S O O K E N E W S M I R R O R . C O M

BLACK PRESS GREATER VICTORIA-Friday, December 18, 2015

Driveway • B8