Special Features - Connector Magazine May/June 2018

Connector ONBOARD MAGAZINE FOR THE WILSON’S GROUP

The Fun Is In Getting There!

MAY/JUNE 2018

Walk It! Discover the Past Walking Tours

WHERE MONEY IS NO OBJECT FREE THINGS TO DO IN VANCOUVER

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MAY/JUNE 2018 2

Contents

May/June 2018 5 President’s Message 6 Walk it: Discover the Past 8 Where Money is no Object 11 Coming Up at POV 12 Meet the Concierge 14 Five on the Drive 18 Five for Foodies 20 Hit the Road 22 Meet the Crew

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ON OUR COVER

Chinatown’s Dragon Gate in Victoria. Photo courtesy Tourism Victoria.

PUBLISHER Mario Gedicke 250.480.3204 250.891.5627 mario.gedicke@blackpress.ca

CREATIVE DIRECTOR Lily Chan

EDITOR Susan Lundy lundys@shaw.ca

PHOTOGRAPHERS Don Denton Sierra Lundy Darcy Nybo

PRODUCTION Janice Marshall

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11

ADVERTISING Ruby Della Siega 250.480.3222

CONNECTOR magazine is published six times a year by Black Press and is distributed by The Wilson’s Group. The points of view or opinions expressed herein are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of the publisher or The Wilson’s Group.

The contents of Connector magazine are protected by copyright, including the designed advertising. Reproduction is prohibited without written consent of the publisher.

Patty Doering 250.480.3242 Nick Warrington 250.480.3399 Annemarie Rindt 250.480.3244

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PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

Reflecting on the Humbolt Broncos o our valued clients, industry partners and riders: This is the place where I usually share fun and exciting news about our company and this beautiful place we call home. While we are all very happy to see the start of a new season and all the wonderful things the summer months have in store, the entire bus industry, fellow Canadians, near and far, as well as many others, continue to grieve over the horrific crash of the Humbolt Broncos bus that occurred on April 6.

Like many others, this tragic event hit very close to home. Our company is no stranger to long road trips, having, over the years, carried hundreds of players of different ages and representing different sports. Like many other parents, I have loaded my children onto buses and waved goodbye as they headed off on road trips, and I have even driven some myself. For me and many others who have spent long hours on a bus, these road trips are a time for team bonding and the creation of positive memories. Some of my favourite memories were made on the bus — memories which later inspired what is now our company’s slogan, “The fun is in the getting there!”

In these times of sorrow we must reflect on and be grateful for these wonderful memories we share. For it is these memories and the stories that we tell — through both

T

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tears and laughter — that the spirts of those we lost live on.

From the hockey sticks placed out on front porches, the jerseys that were worn, the fundraisers and donations that have been given, it warms my heart to see our country coming together and showing support for this team. I encourage everyone to continue to give what they can to the Humbolt Broncos as the family, friends and the entire community try to come to terms with this unimaginable loss.

Our team at Wilson’s has partnered with the Peninsula Panthers, Victoria Grizzlies, Victoria HarbourCats and Elite Promotional Marketing to create a T-shirt that will be sold with all proceeds going to the Humbolt Broncos.

We’d also like to thank Alley Kat Signs for the donation of helmet stickers for all of the above teams. We welcome everyone to join us at the Victoria HarbourCats’ home opener on June 1, where the team will pay special tribute to the Humbolt Broncos.

On behalf of our entire company and family, I send my most heartfelt condolences to all of those involved, including the friends and family of the Humbolt Broncos team, Charlies Charters and the family and friends of bus driver Glen Doerksen, and to the entire Humbolt community. You are not alone. #HumboltStrong.

John Wilson President

MAY/JUNE 2018 5

VICTORIA

BY DARCY NYBO

DAY-TRIPPING:

A WALK THROUGH TIME

Walk IT! and Discover Victoria's past

John Adams of Discover The Past stops by a mural of early-1900s Chinatown. The artist took the liberty of painting women in the photo, when at the time, women rarely ventured out of their homes.

PHOTO BY DARCY NYBO

BY DARCY NYBO

ne of the best ways to get to know Victoria is on a walking tour. We spoke with John Adams from Discover the Past and found there are many different tours you can take, each one different than the last. And don’t worry about hearing your tour guide. Every participant is issued an earpiece and radio so every word stays clear.

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Pick a Walk

Discover the Past has morning tours, afternoon tours, evening tours and weekend tours. Every step takes you further back to the days of rumrunners, pioneers, scoundrels, artists and founding members of this great city.

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John and his team are diehard historians and love Victoria. Starting in June, they run two history tours each day.

Chinatown Walk

Chinatown Walks start at 10:30 am Saturday mornings in May and — beginning June 2 — every Saturday, Tuesday and Thursday. The tours take about 90 minutes and include an optional walk up 52 stairs to an ornate temple.

On this tour, John and his team take you back to the late 1800s and early 1900s as you learn about the history of Canada’s oldest Chinatown. The “meet up” spot is in front of the Starbucks at the corner of Fisgard and Government streets, and the tour starts at the statue of Dr. Sun Yat-Sen.

Among the many discoveries you’ll make on this tour is a passageway named after Lee Mong Kow, who brought his mother to Victoria from China since there was no one there to look after her. This occurred at a time when only five per cent of the Chinese population in Victoria was female. Lee Mong Kow also started the Chinese school featured on the tour. You’ll learn how Chinese children in Victoria were banned from attending public elementary schools, even if they were born in Canada.

The tour typically also includes a visit to a Chinese medicine shop and a Cantonese treat from a local bakery. Learn about the opium trade in Canada and the gambling game of Fan Tan. Canada banned opium in 1908; however, in the 1880s as much as CONNECTOR l THE WILSON’S GROUP

Walking through Fan Tan Alley in Victoria’s Chinatown.

TOURISM VICTORIA PHOTO

80,000 pounds of the drug flowed through Victoria each year en route to the United States. You’ll even discover the location of Chinatown’s original main street, and how it shifted to its current location on Fisgard.

There are dozens and dozens of great stories from the past with information

about the present thrown in for good measure. For example, you’ll discover how Dragon Alley is now an up-andcoming area with trendy townhouses and interesting shops. You’ll see funky and artistic stores in Fan Tan Alley. There’s even a store that sells spell books, wands and capes!

This tour is well worth it, even for those already familiar with the area.

Here’s a sample of other tours offered by Discover the Past. Each presents a fun way to learn more about the different areas of Victoria, its founders and its colourful past.

Victoria's Story

Dragon Alley, the entryway to Chinatown’s mixed business and residential area.

PHOTO BY DARCY NYBO

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Every afternoon at 2 pm is the Victoria’s Story tour. Meet up takes place at the Visitor Information Centre above Victoria’s Inner Harbour.

This popular tour takes you on a gorgeous walk along the harbour, past the Fairmont Empress Hotel and then through the heritage streets of Victoria’s Old Town and Chinatown. Bastion Square offers great views of the harbour and Market Square is a real treat.

Gaze upon heritage buildings and

discover iconic architecture, fascinating details about local events, famous and colourful people from the past, and current civic issues.

Emily Carr Walk

Visitors and locals alike enjoy the Emily Carr James Bay tour. Learn about renowned Victoria painter Emily Carr and visit key sites related to her life. At every stop, the guide provides guests with interesting information about one of Canada’s — and certainly BC’s — most beloved artists. This is a literary, historic, artsy walk that begins at 10:30 am every Friday in June, July and August. Meet at the Emily Carr statue on the corner of Government and Belleville streets on the edge of the Fairmont Empress Hotel grounds.

Boo!

Ghostly Walks are another favourite. These take place every night from May 1 to October 31, starting at the Visitor Information Centre.

There are different routes every night of the week and each tour covers different parts of downtown Victoria, resulting in seven different and entertaining ways to discover Victoria’s dark side.

MAY/JUNE 2018 7

VANCOUVER

BY LAUREN KRAMER

DAY-TRIPPING:

WHERE MONEY IS NO OBJECT

Five free things to do

in Vancouver

BY LAUREN KRAMER

ancouver can be an expensive place to enjoy, but the good news is you don’t have to stretch your budget to have fun in the city. Locals know all too well there are myriad free activities that deliver stunning views, awaken your joie de vivre after a long winter of dormancy and expose you to the city’s energizing vibe. Here’s our top picks for free fun this summer.

V

Beach Bliss

While the cold Pacific Ocean temperatures may not tempt you to plunge

8 MAY/JUNE 2018

into the water, Vancouver’s beaches will get you in that summery mood.

Head to Kitsilano (Kits) Beach to watch volleyball players lunge for the ball. A popular spot for runners and families, Kits Beach also has a heated swimming pool and a view of the city, ocean and mountains.

If you want to escape the crowds, head to Spanish Banks, recline on a soft towel against a washed-up log and steep in the peace and quiet. A gorgeous stretch of soft sand with equally tantalizing views, Spanish Banks is also a great skim-boarding spot.

No swimsuit? No problem – if you’re

Kits Beach volleyball courts with players silhouetted against the setting sun in English Bay. PHOTO BY TOURISM VANCOUVER/ NELSON MOUELLIC

okay with some nudity, Wreck Beach, adjacent to the University of British Columbia, is Canada’s first legal clothingoptional beach — and it’s a beauty. Ditch your self-consciousness and enjoy this 7.8-kilometre stretch of sand.

Finally, if you find yourself in Stanley Park needing some beach time, there are lots of options. Second and Third beaches are highly coveted spaces but for different reasons. Second Beach is just a short walk from English Bay with its hotels, ice cream parlours and restaurants, so if you’re on foot, this is your beach. Plus, it has a large, heated outdoor swimming pool.

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Third Beach, located at Ferguson Point, is the place to watch the sunset, have a picnic and enjoy some quiet bathing amid views of English Bay. Wherever you choose to lay your towel, there are great views on your horizon — whether your preferred scenery is peoplewatching or mountain and cityscapes.

Museum Meanderings

Sure, museums can be expensive places to peruse, but not if you know where and when to go.

Head to the Vancouver Art Gallery and the HR MacMillan Space Centre on Tuesdays and your admission is by donation.

The Vancouver Art Gallery is one of the continent’s most respected and innovative visual arts institutions and has a special focus on First Nations artists and Asia Pacific Art. The Space Centre features a planetarium star theatre and the GMS Observatory — a great place to learn about the night sky.

Slightly further afield, admission at the Burnaby Village Museum is complimentary year-round. The 10-acre site transports visitors back to an early 20th century tram-stop community with homes, businesses and shops, as well as costumed guides. For a small fee, visitors can ride the 1912 CW Parker Carousel, a highlight for kids. This is one of the Lower Mainland’s best kept secrets and it’s a fun, educational venue for a family afternoon.

Drive the Sea-to-Sky highway

You don’t have to head all the way to Whistler to appreciate the loveliness of the Sea-to-Sky Highway, widened and improved for the Vancouver Winter Olympics in 2010.

This scenic route is filled with breathtaking ocean views on one side and rugged mountain peaks on the other. Follow the Sea-to-Sky to the picturesque seaside village of Lion’s Bay and on your way back, stop for a spectacular (short and fairly easy) hike at Lighthouse Park in West Vancouver. One of the city’s loveliest parks, Lighthouse features a wooded trail leading to a beach filled with massive boulders. This is a great spot for exploring tidal pools, finding a quiet nook for some inner reflection or munching a picnic lunch with friends or family before heading home.

Admission to the Vancouver Art Gallery is by donation on Tuesdays.

PHOTO BY TOURISM VANCOUVER/ CLAYTON PERRY

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Drive the Sea-to-Sky Highway.

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Nocturnal Freebies

magnificent landmark set amid the towering skyscrapers of downtown Vancouver.

Dating from 1895, the church reflects a Gothic style of construction with a cedarplank ceiling and beams and floors of old growth Douglas fir. Services are held daily and visitors are welcome.

Info: thecathedral.ca

You have to be under 13 or over 60 for free admission to the Richmond Night Market — otherwise you pony up $3.75. But the market, held weekends, May through October, is a great place to try new food, hunt for fake, made-in-China products (bearing convincing brand names) and absorb the music, aromas and atmosphere of

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Asia without leaving the Lower Mainland.

This is no small affair, with 100-plus food vendors, 200 retail stalls and an entertainment stage.

Located at 8351 River Road, the Richmond Night Market is a quick walk from the Bridgeport Station of the Canada Line. If you’re driving, parking is free.

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DYNAMIC SEASON ANNOUNCED BY PACIFIC OPERA VICTORIA pera lovers will be thrilled with the recently announced lineup for the 2018/19 season at Pacific Opera Victoria.

Performances include two, well-known masterworks by major composers as well as a delightful piece from the classical operetta repertoire.

And for those coming from the Saanich Peninsula or up island, don’t forget the POV/Wilson’s Opera Bus regularly transports lively crowds of opera-lovers to Sunday matinees. During the ride, passengers have the opportunity to watch a pre-performance lecture. Check online for details.

The season opens October 11, 2018, with Beethoven’s only opera, Fidelio. Wim Trompert, director of POV’s 2014 production of Das Rheingold, returns to direct this production, joined by his design partner from Das Rheingold, Nancy Bryant.

Fidelio, which runs through October 21, will feature soprano Tracy Cantin as Leonore. Also in the cast are Canadian baritone Peter McGillivray and Scottish Pacific Opera Victoria bass Brian Bannatyne-Scott. production of La Traviata, After Fidelio comes February 2019 Verdi’s masterpiece, PHOTO BY JO-ANN RICHARDS La traviata. This is a historic co-production by five Canadian opera companies: Manitoba Opera, Edmonton Opera, Pacific Opera Victoria, Vancouver Opera and Opéra de Montréal. Directed by Alain Gauthier, the production will be staged in Victoria from February 14 to 24, 2019, and will feature Lucia Cesaroni as Violetta and James Westman as Germont.

After the dramatic intensity of Fidelio and romantic tragedy of La traviata, Emmerich Kálmán’s Countess Maritza will provide a light-hearted end to the season. The production, which runs April 25 to May 5, 2019, is directed by Glynis Leyshon and designed

by Patrick Clark, the team behind POV’s 2013 production of Albert Herring. Countess Maritza will feature sopranos Leslie Ann Bradley and Suzanne Rigden and tenor Adam Luther.

All 2018/19 season productions will be presented at Victoria’s Royal Theatre and conducted by Timothy Vernon. For more information and for season tickets, visit www.pov.bc.ca or call 250-385-0222.

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ASK THE CONCIERGE

with

BRETT ARCHIBALD

CONCIERGE AT THE EXECUTIVE HOTEL LE SOLEIL IN VANCOUVER

PHOTO BY JENIE BRITTO

rett Archibald has been concierge for 12 years at the Executive Hotel Le Soleil in Vancouver. He says the Le Soleil brand has expanded recently, moving into New York last year and opening three more hotels in BC this year.

But let’s find out what Brett has to say about Vancouver.

B

WHERE’S YOUR FAVOURITE BREAKFAST SPOT?

I’m not really a morning person so when I do go out for breakfast, I choose greasy spoon/diner-style eateries, since they usually have an all-day breakfast menu.

I love Deacon’s Corner on Alexander and Main streets: chicken fried steak or pulled pork Monte Cristo always hits the spot. Also, Chambar has a great breakfast midweek and a fantastic brunch on the weekends.

Executive Hotel Le Soleil Concierge Brett Archibald.

WHERE WOULD YOU SCHEDULE A BUSINESS MEETING?

Island Brewery! Perfect for the big “kids.”

If the clients have the time, on a golf course. This city has so many courses to choose from, and being outdoors on a sunny Vancouver day makes for a great time. Plus I could blame my terrible game on being too focussed on the “business!”

WHAT’S A UNIQUE-TO-VANCOUVER ACTIVITY?

Well, it has to involve seafood, I think.

Coast Restaurant on Alberni Street always has a fun atmosphere and delicious food.

Sandbar on Granville Island is a great location, right beside the Public Market.

And Blue Water Cafe is always spot-on.

The Vancouver Seawall is fantastic.

It’s a great way to get a feel for the city.

You don’t have to be super fit to ride or walk around it, and it takes you to all the corners of Vancouver — Coal Harbour, Stanley Park, English Bay, Yaletown and even the Athletes Village and Granville Island. For the best view though — and I’ve been lucky enough to do it a few times — take a Harbour Air floatplane and fly above the city for a bird’s-eye view. An amazing experience!

WHERE’S A GREAT PLACE TO TAKE YOUNG CHILDREN?

WHERE WOULD YOU FIND A UNIQUE SHOPPING EXPERIENCE?

WHAT RESTAURANT (S) REALLY SHOWS OFF VANCOUVER?

The Vancouver Aquarium in Stanley Park never fails to keep the kids happy.

But I also love sending families to Science World for a bit of hands-on education, and then suggest they take the Aquabus or False Creek Ferry from there to Granville Island.

Here, they’ll find the Kids Market — which just happens to be very close to Granville 12 MAY/JUNE 2018

Vancouver is a shopper’s paradise. I feel it has something for every budget.

But if you want something unique, I would suggest Gastown for its many boutiques. Even south Main Street is becoming popular with tourists looking for something different, and it’s really not that far from downtown.

WHERE DO YOU TAKE FRIENDS FOR A DRINK?

Depending on my mood and company, I like to grab a beer at a sports bar when the Canucks are on, or just relax with a whiskey sour in a lounge somewhere.

The Donnelly Pubs are fun when it comes to sports and they also have pool tables, pinball machines and trivia nights, which is great for groups. For quieter evenings, I enjoy the cocktails and wine list at Brix and Mortar in Yaletown. Great selection.

WHAT’S YOUR FAVOURITE LOCAL WINE?

I actually just went on a winery tour with a friend who lives in Osoyoos and works at Nk’Mip winery.

Their Riesling icewine is delicious!

They are North America’s first aboriginal-owned winery and are producing some incredible wines.

ANY SUGGESTIONS FOR A ROMANTIC DAY-TRIP? My girlfriend and I love taking a picnic over to Newcastle Island. You can fly to Nanaimo from Vancouver via Helijet or Harbour Air. The island is

CONNECTOR l THE WILSON’S GROUP

only accessible via boat or passenger ferry and has trails, tidal pools and many hidden beaches and coves. Great for kayaking around or just lazing on the beach.

WHAT’S A GREAT SPRING ACTIVITY IN VANCOUVER?

When I grew up in Australia, I really only got one season. Hot. So now I really enjoy the changes in Vancouver’s seasons, and in spring you can’t not be amazed by the cherry blossoms. Vancouver’s Cherry Blossom Festival happens each year in April and there are many free events around town showcasing these amazing trees. Plus, the blossoms mean it’s the end of winter, which my Aussie bones are always happy about.

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WHAT’S THE CRAZIEST QUESTION YOU’VE EVER BEEN ASKED AS CONCIERGE?

As a concierge, I love the crazy questions! We get asked the same things daily so it’s always fun when a guest throws us a curveball. I guess the Winter Olympics in 2010 really challenged me as I had so many requests for things that were sold out or out-of-the-ordinary from people who usually don’t get a “no” for an answer. When a movie star asked me to find a Patrick Kane Team USA Jersey and two tickets to the gold medal ice hockey game on the day of the event, that was a tough one. But I got him in and he ended up on TV during the game wearing the jersey — and that was fun to see!

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Must-see and must-do events in May and June

FIVE DRIVE ON THE

VICTORIA>VANCOUVER>

VICTORIA

9 to 5: The Musical Where: McPherson Theatre When: May 4-13

Victoria HarbourCats Baseball Home Opener Where: Royal Athletic Park When: June 1, 2018

The HarbourCats open their 2018 West Coast League season with the first of three games against the Wenatchee AppleSox. The Friday night opener may be the hottest ticket in town and could just set the record for the largest HarbourCats crowd ever! Gates open early at 5 pm. Tickets are available at the HarbourCats offices at 101-1814 Vancouver Street (phone: 778-265-0327), at the Royal Athletic Park box office one hour prior to game time or online. harbourcats.com

Egypt: The Time of the Pharaohs Where: Royal BC Museum When: May 18 to December 31

Visitors to the Royal BC Museum are invited to experience a time when civilization grew along the Nile, pyramids dotted the skyline and people believed that gods walked the earth. With more than 300 original artifacts, some an astounding 4,500 years old, this exhibition covers all aspects of ancient Egyptian life, from the emergence of ancient Egyptian civilization along the Nile to the Ptolemaic and Roman eras. Be among the first in North America to see this staggering exhibition’s priceless ancient artifacts, such as the coffin of Nakht, an exceptional bust of Hatshepsut and an ornate gold and garnet necklace from the Ptolemaic period. royalbcmuseum.bc.ca

14 MAY/JUNE 2018

The Victoria Operatic Society has lucked into a perfectly timed debut of 9 to 5: The Musical. Based on the 1980 hit movie starring Jane Fonda, Lily Tomlin and Dolly Parton about three oppressed female coworkers who conspire to get revenge on their sexist and bigoted boss, the musical takes a similarly comedic look at the serious topic of workplace inequality. Parton wrote all the songs for the musical, which premiered in Los Angeles in 2008, and there’s every style of music, from gospel to pop-rock. VOS’s production of 9 to 5 features a 28-person cast and a band of over a dozen. This is a high-energy show, featuring a hilarious story of friendship and revenge. It’s outrageous, thought-provoking and even a little romantic. For tickets, call 250-386-6121. rmts.bc.ca

Cool aid's Homecoming 50th anniversary gala Where: Ship Point When: May 26, 2018

Homecoming is designed as a reception and mingling event with a variety of areas to explore and hang out at “Cool Aid House,” which will be created under a big, heated tent. After wandering down the red carpet, grab a drink and nibbles in the kitchen, relax in the living room and enjoy the fresh air on the patio. The event will also feature delicious catering and a full beverage service, included in the ticket price, live music, auction items with a home theme, including some big ticket offerings, and historic displays and videos about Cool Aid. All proceeds will help Cool Aid support people in the community who are homeless and vulnerable. coolaid.org CONNECTOR l THE WILSON’S GROUP

Victoria Highland Games and Celtic Festival When: May 19-21 Where: Topaz Park

Don a kilt and head to Topaz Park to celebrate Scottish culture at the 155th Victoria Highland Games and Celtic Festival. Enjoy highland dancing, listen to pipe bands and Celtic rock, and watch

sheep herding, haggis hurling and caber tossing competitions.

Estimated to be the largest in its history, this festival is anticipated to attract an audience of over 25,000 people over the Victoria Day long weekend. Launching the festivities is the Tartan Parade that travels through downtown Victoria, and events of various types and flavours that all occur for a full week prior to the festival. victoriahighlandgames.com

VANCOUVER Vancouver International Children's Festival Where: Granville Island When: May 28 to June 3

When the Vancouver International Children’s Festival arrives, Granville Island comes to life! With six fantastic indoor theatre venues and a bustling arts activity village, the festival site becomes a huge family playground. From toddlers to “tweens,” the festival has shows and activities for everyone. Catch some of the best of the festival at the special evening performances, including the ultimate bedtime stories in the Pyjama Night series. Featured performance tickets are $25.35 per adult and $15.38 per child/senior. There’s special pricing for Poggle, The Variety Show, One of a Kind and National Film Board Short Films. Your show ticket includes access to all the village activities. Children must be accompanied into the activity village by an adult. childrensfestival.ca CONNECTOR l THE WILSON’S GROUP

Vancouver Craft Beer Week Where: Various venues When: May 25 to June 3

Like many west coast cities in North America, Vancouver’s craft brewing scene has exploded in recent years. Enter Vancouver Craft Beer Week, the biggest event of its kind in Canada. Established in 2010, the festival has grown to a week-long beer extravaganza of events that pairs beer with delicious food, great music, competitions and award galas, as well as showcasing rare brews and interesting imports. VCBW 2018 kicks off on May 25, continuing throughout the week and culminating at the historic PNE fairgrounds on June 2 and 3 where over 100 craft breweries and cideries will be pouring more than 300 beers and ciders.

At the PNE, beer — both imported and BC craft — will be presented

by North American breweries and (often) poured by the brewers themselves. vancouvercraftbeerweek.com MAY/JUNE 2018 15

FIVE ON THE DRIVE

DECADEnce at the Queer Arts Festival

Where: Roundhouse Community Arts & Recreation Centre When: June 16-28

The Queer Arts Festival in Vancouver is an annual artist-run showcase of queer arts, culture and history. It celebrates the unique creative expressions of visual and performing artists who identify as part of the queer communities. QAF features a curated visual arts show, a community art show, and three dynamic weeks of cutting-edge performances and workshops from all artistic disciplines, including music, dance, theatre, literary and media arts. DECADEnce art show kicks off on June 16 with the Art Party and Gala Opening Reception , where “art and conviviality converge … celebrating 10 years of the Queer Arts Festival.” queerartsfestival.com

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Italian Day on The Drive Where: Commercial Drive When: June 10

Italian Day on The Drive is a vibrant cultural street festival celebrating Italian culture, heritage and community with over 150 street participants, comprised of partners, merchants, vendors and community organizations — and an estimated 300,000+ attendees of all ages and cultures. Commercial Drive (The Drive), home to Little Italy, is the designated location for the annual festival where the street is transformed into a lively 14-block fiesta. A festive community embrace, The Drive comes alive in green, white and red with piazza-style, animated zones, live music, food, patios, fashion, retail vendors, vehicles, activities, children’s zones and more. italianday.ca

Bard on the Beach When: June to September Where: Vanier Park waterfront

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Vancouver’s annual Bard on the Beach is the largest not-forprofit, professional Shakespeare festival in Western Canada.

Celebrating the brilliant works of Shakespeare for the 29th year, the Bard on the Beach Theatre Society puts on this event to offer Shakespeare plays, related dramas and various celebratory events.

This year’s special events include fireworks, opera and arias, insightful talks, music from an award-winning men’s choir, classical music performed by the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra, wine and family nights, and of course, plenty of Shakespeare! Drama rotates between the main stage, the Douglas Campbell Theatre and the Howard Family Stage for intimate and less-familiar Shakespeare plays. These tents are located in the Bard Village, a lively gathering space for Bard theatre patrons where they can meet, chat and drink beverages for an hour prior to curtain call. bardonthebeach.org CONNECTOR l THE WILSON’S GROUP

Coming to Victoria?

Traveling by land, sea or air, The Wilson’s Group has you covered

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MAY/JUNE 2018 17

VICTORIA + VANCOUVER

BY DARCY NYBO

FIVE FOR

FOODIES

SMALL PLATES THAT SIZZLE

In Spain it’s called tapas. In the Middle East and the Mediterranean, they call it mezzes or mezethes.

In Italy, it has three names: cicchetti, stuzzichini and antipasti. It doesn’t matter what you call it, sharing small plates of delicious food with friends is a great way to spend time together. We visited five different restaurants and discovered some of the tastiest small-plate morsels out there.

Crowbar Grilled Carrots.

Le Petit Feast at Nuba.

Crowbar

Nuba CafE

This is a great place to meet your friends for a cosy, west coast experience. Although the menu changes often here, we found a few things we hope are there when you go. Try the Grilled Carrots, which are bathed in a black garlic banga cauda (a northern Italian “hot bath” of light, creamy garlic sauce) and then topped with a crunchy roasted almond sprinkle. The menu also offers Zucchini Aglio e Olio, lightly sautéed with garlic, Thai chili and olive oil. If you love garlic, then this is the dish for you!

Make sure you get some organic house bread for dipping. The Wild Octopus Ceviche is tender and tangy and tastes the way it would if you were in Sicily.

I love the funky atmosphere at the Nuba restaurants. Their Gastown location was inspired by Beirut in the ‘40s. Mount Pleasant and Yaletown have a 1970s-café vibe, while the Kitsalano location is pure Lebanese taverna. The food is just as varied and oh-so-delicious. There’s so much to choose from here, be it vegetarian, gluten free, vegan or meat dishes. Try the Najib’s special — crispy cauliflower that tastes of fresh lemon and sea salt. Another favourite is the Chicken Tawook with Hummus. Deliciously grilled chicken made with a traditional garlic sauce and served with hummus and avocado.

646 Kingsway, Vancouver

MUST TRY: When we visited, the Dealers Choice Pasta was a mushroom linguine — a culinary experience that will melt in your mouth and rock your taste buds. Smoky oak, creamy mushroom in a light olive oil linguine hits the palate, followed by a snappy, sharp smoked parmesan cheese aftertaste. Delizioso! crowbareastvan.com

18 MAY/JUNE 2018

Four locations: Gastown, Mount Pleasant, Yaletown and Kitsilano, Vancouver

MUST TRY: Le Petit Feast is a perfect sharing dish. Hummus,

tabbouleh and baba ghanooj like you’ve never tasted before.

This dish is smooth, creamy and flavourful, and although it is a shared plate, you may be tempted to keep it all to yourself. www.nuba.ca

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Mame-Ten at Fudo.

Mussels de cha cha cha at The Tapa Bar.

The Tapa Bar Restaurant

In historic Trounce Alley off Government Street, Victoria

We started our tapas journey with smoked-almond-stuffed dates wrapped in bacon. These tasty little morsels disappeared far too quickly. This was followed by some savoury mixed olives on a bed of olive oil and vinegar with fresh local basil. Our next dish was kale and I loved it. This smoky, grilled kale marinated in coconut milk, cayenne and lemon was refreshing and comforting all at the same time. The Gambas con Coco prawns in coconut milk with curry was also a scrumptious palate-pleaser.

MUST TRY: I thought things couldn’t get any better, and then they brought out the atracción principal. The Mussels de cha cha cha will have your mouth doing the cha-cha. These Salt Spring Island mussels are serve in a fiery pepper sauce that will keep you smiling bite after bite. It’s spicy, it’s salty and it has an over-the-top garlic sambal rounding out the flavours. In a word – Yum! tapabar.ca

Fudo Japanese Restaurant and Sushi Bar 425-777 Royal Oak Drive, Victoria (Broadmead Village)

This Japanese Fusion restaurant has some great creations

by Chef Shingo. The Sake-No-Tataki is a flavour explosion of smoky, sweet, crunchy and creamy. The lightly seared sockeye salmon is seared with Cajun spice and topped with crunchy fried leeks and wasabi honey mayo that almost melts in your mouth.

The Red Tuna Poke is a Hawaiian-style sashimi with grated ginger, garlic, green onion and tobiko. For a nice bitter/sweet combo, try the special sunomono salad: octopus, prawn and crab in harusame noodle with a house vinegar sauce. And of course, there’s sushi. The Chef ’s Spicy Tuna is another fusion creation with avocado, asparagus, fried leeks, spicy sauce and topped with wasabi tobiko.

MUST TRY: One of the prettiest and tastiest dishes I’ve ever

eaten is the Mame-Ten. Pick it up and sink your teeth into this delicious mixture of prawn tempura, smoked salmon, avocado, cream cheese, tobiko and spicy sauce wrapped in soy paper.

Every bite has a different flavour combination. And it pairs perfectly with steaming hot saké!

The Village Taverna

#101-1075 Pendergast Street, Victoria

You’ll love the variety of mezethes here. Start out with a plate of hummus, tzatziki, olive tapenade and pita bread. Then tuck into a refreshing and surprisingly savoury marouli salad, made with finely chopped romaine lettuce, dill, green onion, capers and red wine vinaigrette. The Greek salad is a perfect balance of peppers, onions, tomatoes, cucumbers, feta cheese, olives and dressing. You can’t leave here without trying the calamari or the lemon potatoes, which are both delicious. Lamb lovers will thoroughly enjoy the tender and perfectly spiced lamb kabob with hints of lemon, rosemary, salt and pepper.

MUST TRY: Gigantes are a bean from Greece that tastes a little like chestnuts.

Here, they are prepped for two days before combining them with lots of olive oil, tomatoes, sun-dried tomatoes, garlic and parsley. Soft, tender, savoury and a little sweet, they have a gentle garlic aftertaste that dares you to take one more bite. You must order this dish at least three days in advance, but it’s worth the wait. www.thevillagetaverna.ca

CONNECTOR l THE WILSON’S GROUP

Greek salad at The Village Taverna.

MAY/JUNE 2018 19

HIT THE KIM JAY PHOTO

PHOTOS AND TEXT

BY SIERRA LUNDY

ROAD

FASHION-SAVVY TRAVELLERS Dave Wallace Riptide Studios Owner and "viral video kid" Where are you from and how did you get to Victoria?

I've lived in Victoria my entire life. The more I travel, the more proud I am to call it my home.

How did you get into video production?

As a kid, I was always creating something — a song on an old 4-track recorder, a movie on my parents’ handycam. It was less about the medium and more about expressing myself. While I was in college, I got a lot of traction on YouTube (including a 2010 video called Creating a Hit: 8 Hour Challenge that went viral) and realized that video production could go beyond creative expression and be my career.

What do you love most about your work?

It puts me in uncomfortable situations and allows me to grow as a producer and a person.

Can you recall a job that was particularly rewarding?

Being a video producer often means sitting at a desk editing or in pre-production meetings. The most rewarding jobs are usually the ones that bring me into nature. I've produced a number of promotional videos for Middle Beach Lodge in Tofino and have fallen in love with the property and surrounding area.

How does your work influence your personal style?

Dealing with clients, I'm always trying to come across as professional, while not

20 MAY/JUNE 2018

CONNECTOR l THE WILSON’S GROUP

sacrificing my West Coast roots. I guess something like “West Coast businesscasual.”

Where in the world would you like to have an adventure?

My goal is to spend time in Iceland and New York this year.

What does good travelling style mean to you?

“Dealing with clients, I’m always trying to come across as professional, while not sacrificing my West Coast roots.”

Clean and comfortable without sacrificing style.

What makes you happy?

Creating art with like-minded people.

What do like to do while you’re riding the bus?

I'm either mentally planning out a video shoot, or listening to a podcast.

Moss Bjorn jacket ($100) and long-sleeved shirt ($75), both from Roark Revival.

Leather Messenger Bag ($40) from The Patch; brown chinos ($60) and Timberland Heritage boots ($200) from West 49. Photographed at Market Square in Victoria.

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MEET THE WILSON’S GROUP TEAM Where were you born and where did you grow up?

I was born in Victoria, BC and grew up here until moving to Nova Scotia at age 13. But I moved back to Victoria five years later.

Who is your family?

I am the son of Ronald and Ruth Black. My father is deceased and my mom lives in Nova Scotia. I’ve been married for 21 years to my wife, Carmen Black, and we have a 13-year-old son, TJ.

What path did you take to get to this job?

I discovered in my teenage years I had a talent for painting vehicles and so I pursued it from there.

What do you like best about this work?

The people who I work closely with are like family.

DON DENTON PHOTO

What are your hobbies outside of the job?

Automotive and other restorations and spending quality time with my wife and son, hiking with the dogs and geocaching in the Sooke area.

What is your favourite thing to do in Victoria?

I live in Sooke so I don’t have a favourite thing to do in Victoria. Sooke has all I need!

TREVOR BLACK

Position: Automotive Painter Time with Wilson’s: 5+ years

What is a “must-do” in your city for visitors?

Butchart Gardens is a MUST for anyone!

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