Special Features - The Connector - July/August 2018

ONBOARD MAGAZINE FOR THE WILSON’S GROUP

Connector The Fun Is In Getting There!

JULY/AUGUST 2018

THE CATS’ MEOW On deck with the HarbourCats

BIKING BLISS TWO-WHEELED EXCURSIONS IN VANCOUVER

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CONNECTOR l THE WILSON’S GROUP

JULY/AUGUST 2018 2

Contents

JULY/AUGUST 2018 5 President’s Message 6 HarbourCats baseball 8 Biking Bliss 11 Ask the Concierge 12 Cream of the crop 14 Five on the Drive 18 Good taste, Canada 20 Hit the Road 22 Meet the Crew

PHOTO BY LIA CROWE

6

8

ON OUR COVER

HarbourCats baseball.

Photo courtesy Tourism Victoria

12

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

CREATIVE DIRECTOR Lily Chan

ADVERTISING Ruby Della Siega 250.480.3222

PRODUCTION Janice Marshall

EDITOR Susan Lundy lundys@shaw.ca

PHOTOGRAPHERS Lia Crowe Don Denton Sierra Lundy Lauren Kramer

Patty Doering 250.480.3242 Nick Warrington 250.480.3399 Annemarie Rindt 250.480.3244 Vicki Clark 250.588.2424

WRITERS Sierra Lundy, Lauren Kramer, Darcy Nybo

Welcome to the amazing world of insects and arachnids! Discover roughly 50 species of giant walking sticks, alien-eyed praying mantis huge horned beetles, glow in the dark scorpions, hairy tarantulas, and Canada’s largest captive leafcutter ant colony. Our animals are live and you get to hold them on a safe and fun environment!

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victoriabugzoo.ca CONNECTOR l THE WILSON’S GROUP

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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.

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CONNECTOR l THE WILSON’S GROUP

PRESIDENT’S MESSAGE

welcome to summer! he sun is shining, kids are out of school and our cities and streets are filled with excitement and plenty of people enjoying their surroundings.

It’s the time we’ve all been waiting for during our cold, wet fall and winter — summer has arrived! During these next few months our province really shines and earns the name “Beautiful British Columbia.”

For those of us in the tourism industry, this is our busiest time of year. Visitors from near and far come to see all that Victoria and Vancouver have to offer. As for locals, such as my family, we consider ourselves very lucky to live in such a beautiful place, where there is always something to see and do during these sunny summer days.

If Victoria is your destination of choice, check out one of the newest additions to our city — the Victoria International Marina, where you will find beautiful luxury yachts and a delicious new restaurant with Pacific Northwest inspired creations. Congratulations to Craig Norris and his team on their successful grand opening.

Take a stroll through the Inner Harbour and be entertained by local artists and buskers. Then, as you walk by the historic Fairmont Empress Hotel, hop onto one of our GrayLine open-top, double-decker buses to see Victoria’s highlights on the Hop-On Hop-Off tour.

Look to the sky for one of the many fantastic firework shows going on in Victoria during the summer, or

T

CONNECTOR l THE WILSON’S GROUP

head out to The Butchart Gardens for its amazing Night Illuminations show every Saturday evening until September 1.

For all you music lovers, be sure to check out one of the many music festivals around the Greater Victoria area this summer, including the Chilliwack show brought to you by the Victoria HarbourCats and Forza Promotions on Saturday, July 28.

Vancouver also has many exciting things to do for visitors and locals alike. The Honda Celebration of Light is back starting July 28, as well as the PNE Fair, August 18 to September 3. The fair is always a fun time for the whole family — check out our Five on the Drive page for more details.

And calling all Canadian Football League fans — our BC Lions are back in action at BC Place. This is another great outing for the entire family, and new tickets prices for kids are just $10!

Whether you have travelled from near or far, we want to thank you for choosing Victoria and/or Vancouver as your destination this summer. We truly value all our guests and hope that you enjoy your time with us. Spread the word to your friends and family and come back to visit us again soon!

John Wilson President JULY/AUGUST 2018 5

VICTORIA

BY SUSAN LUNDY

DAY-TRIPPING:

HARBOURCATS BASEBALL

The Cats' Meow

A perfect night out with the HarbourCats ball team

PHOTO BY DON DENTON

ith the evening sun shining, the scent of hotdogs, grilled onions and popcorn tickling our noses and a good view of the pristine field at The Wilson’s Group Stadium at Royal Athletic Park, my husband and I settled in for our first-ever Victoria HarbourCats game.

The event marked the first of the season’s four Fireworks Nights, sponsored

by The Wilson’s Group, and by the time

W

6 JULY/AUGUST 2018

the crack and colour of fireworks boomed in the sky at night’s end, we’d seen a perfectly scripted ball game and already had plans to catch the HarbourCats again this summer.

After losing their home opener the night before, the HarbourCats trounced the Wenatchee AppleSox 7-1 in an actionpacked game seen by 5,240 people — the largest crowd ever recorded in West Coast

League (WCL) history.

In between all the baseball, there was onfield entertainment, great food and drink selections and many sights to behold. For us — avid major league Toronto Blue Jays fans — it was a great chance to check out the local squad and experience a hometown ball event.

With General Admission tickets in hand, we arrived early, anxious to secure good bleacher seats. And then we had a good chuckle. Our $15 tickets — add at least a zero for Blue Jays tickets — got us seats within throwing distance of the third base line. Try getting this close to the action at Rogers Centre in Toronto or Safeco Field in Seattle.

After settling into our seats, we headed out to explore. No worries finding yourself beer or cider — I counted at least four places to pick up a brew and, despite the huge crowd at the game, the lineups were manageable throughout the night.

My husband hit the merch tent and bought a HarbourCats seat cushion… and then got it signed at the autograph table.

New this year, the Monk Autograph Zone gives fans, especially children (and my husband), a chance to meet and interact with selected players. They can pick up signatures by visiting the table, which is located on the concourse down the right field side.

Also on the concourse is a cornucopia of food trucks and concessions, offering everything from burgers, fish and chips and pizza to ice cream, candy, popcorn and Wilson’s mini donuts. Bruce loaded up on a chicken souvlaki dish and later we shared a gourmet burger and fries from Floyd’s Diner, handily located in the picnic area CONNECTOR l THE WILSON’S GROUP

FOR US — AVID MAJOR LEAGUE TORONTO BLUE JAYS FANS — IT WAS A GREAT CHANCE TO CHECK OUT THE LOCAL SQUAD AND EXPERIENCE A HOMETOWN BALL EVENT. PHOTO COURTESY TOURISM VICTORIA

right next to our seats.

City of Victoria policy does not allow food vendors in the park to sell bottled water, so fans are encouraged to bring reuseable water bottles and refill them at stations located in the men’s and women’s washrooms.

The Wilson’s Group Upper Deck Experience — appropriately located in a vintage British open-top, double-decker GrayLine Sightseeing bus — sits front and centre on the concourse along the first base line. Also new this year is the Strathcona Hotel Rooftop Party Deck, corporate VIP seating and “Pivetta’s Pen,” designed after the bullpen area at CONNECTOR l THE WILSON’S GROUP

Safeco Field, where fans can casually hang out and watch pitchers prepare to enter the game.

As of this year, the Victoria HarbourCats and The Wilson’s Group of Companies have entered into a five-year baseball branding arrangement, and for all baseball events, including the 2018 Baseball Canada Men’s Championship, the park is called “The Wilson’s Group Stadium at Royal Athletic Park.”

The HarbourCats, now in their sixth year, are part of the WCL, a summer, collegiate, wood bat baseball league, featuring top college-age players. The HarbourCats are the first WCL team to

have two Cuban players on the roster, and last year became the first to have a female player — one of their pitchers, Clair Eccles — who comes from the University of British Columbia in Vancouver.

Considered one of the best teams in the league, the HarbourCats won a record 40 games in 2016, followed last year by a trip trip to the WCL’s North Division Playoff Championship, falling one game short of their first WCL Championship series.

This year, the team will play a 54-game regular season schedule, with 27 of those games and eight additional non-league games being played here in Victoria.

See you there — and go HarbourCats!

JULY/AUGUST 2018 7

VANCOUVER

BY LAUREN KRAMER

PHOTO COURTESY TOURISM VANCOUVER

A

sunny day in Vancouver brings cyclists to the bike paths like bees to honey.

Thanks to careful city planners who mapped a series of magnificent trails far from the thrum of traffic, a two-wheel excursion is one of the best ways to experience Vancouver’s beaches, parks, forests and vistas.

Whether you’re in the mood for a casual pedal with lots of selfie-stops or a power ride through the forest, there’s a route suited to your preference.

As a long-time Vancouver resident, my favourite trail is the one that circles Stanley Park, curves around False Creek, past Granville Island and heads out along the scenic beach road all the way to Spanish Banks.

8 JULY/AUGUST 2018

DAY-TRIPPING:

BIKING BLISS

Easily ridden in a half-day with plenty of stops for people-watching, snacks and beach time, this route avoids traffic for the most part, delivers Vancouver’s most beautiful sights and accomplishes all this without even a slight incline.

Canada Place is the ideal venue to start your ride, with a couple of bike rental shops easily accessible and, depending which day you come, views of the Alaskabound cruise ships boarding passengers.

From Coal Harbour you’re a minute from Stanley Park’s famous sea wall, where there’s a trail for pedestrians and one just for cyclists. Look out for herons fishing quietly in the shallows, listen for the cry of bald eagles and stop to savour the spectacular views of Burrard Inlet.

You can whizz along the trail overtaking

other bikers, but if you go too fast you’ll miss the stops with information about the city and park’s history.

I save my longest rest stop for the west side of the park, where Third Beach and Second Beach feature concessions and enticing people-watching. The aroma of sunscreen and ice cream fills the air, kids tote buckets to the water’s edge and visitors and locals merge in a happy celebration of sunshine.

If you’re brave, bring a swimsuit and towel, though this corner of the Pacific Ocean is ice cold even on the hottest days.

The Second Beach swimming pool, right on the water’s edge and open May through September, may be a preferable option if you’re dying for a dip.

Leave the park and head along English CONNECTOR l THE WILSON’S GROUP

Bay in the direction of Granville Island. On this U-shaped section of the trail you get to experience Vancouver’s urban sights. Tall apartment buildings reach glassy fingers into the sky and city dwellers look out onto green lawns and a selection of play parks for toddlers.

As you exit the U-shape of this section of the trail, you’re on Granville Island, home to a mixture of industrial operations and artisan retailers who sell their wares from shops at the water’s edge. You’ll want to lock up your bike here and walk around, as the island offers a visual feast of activity.

Buskers entertain from various corners, the Granville Island Market offers tantalizing food options and the wares of fibre artists, jewellers and ceramicists promise one-of-a-kind, madein-Canada treasures.

A TWO-WHEEL EXCURSION IS ONE OF THE BEST WAYS TO EXPERIENCE VANCOUVER’S BEACHES, PARKS, FORESTS AND VISTAS You’re back to the beaches as you head west on the last section of the oceanside trail and into the trendy neighbourhood of Kitsilano. As you spin your wheels towards Kits Beach, Jericho Beach and Spanish Banks you’ll notice this stretch of Vancouver is a magnet for youth.

Look out for kayakers and stand-up paddleboarders, or consider renting one or both from a vendor along this route.

If you’re feeling fatigued, pull over to the side, grab a cold drink and watch as athletic, toned millennials compete at beach volleyball tournaments. Or, secure your bike at the rack, lay out a towel and take a nap on the beach before you head back.

The combination of pedal power, people-watching and the city’s best views leaves you feeling exuberant, inspired and happily exhausted. If you want to experience Vancouver in a nutshell, this bike trail is the way to do it.

If you go, bike rental shops are scattered close to the trail embarkation points and offer a wide variety of bike styles. So whether you’re a casual cyclist who prefers a slow saunter or a hard-core mountain biker looking for off-road adventure there’s a bike and a trail matched to your preference.

Pick up a free trail map at your bike rental store. With carefully delineated trails, these handy, foldable maps easily fit into a back pocket and reduce the unlikely possibility that you’ll ever feel lost.

The bike route that circles Stanley Park does not permit twoway biking traffic so be sure you are entering at the right point (Coal Harbour circling towards English Bay) when you begin your circuit. This is crucial because going the wrong way will certainly result in multiple reprimands from other cyclists.

No snacks or water? No problem. There are multiple stores and restaurants along the way to pick up supplies.

CONNECTOR l THE WILSON’S GROUP

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ASK THE CONCIERGE

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DILLON CARFOOT

CONCIERGE AT VICTORIA’S OAK BAY BEACH HOTEL, WHERE HE HAS WORKED FOR THREE YEARS.

WHY DID YOU BECOME A CONCIERGE?

It was a perfect fit for me after working at the front desk. I am inquisitive about my area and love to put amazing experiences together for my guests. As soon as a concierge position became available in 2002, I could not wait to apply.

WHAT ARE THE MOST COMMON QUESTIONS FROM GUESTS AT THE OAK BAY BEACH HOTEL?

“Is this a good time of the year for whale watching?” And the classic — “What is the best restaurant in Victoria?”

SO, WHICH RESTAURANT REALLY SHOWS OFF VICTORIA?

Apart from our own wonderful restaurant The Dining Room, I really like Stage Wine Bar. Situated in the Fernwood neighbourhood, Stage has some wonderful small plates and both BC and international wines.

WHERE’S YOUR FAVOURITE BREAKFAST SPOT IN VICTORIA?

There is a little spot in a quiet residential area close to here on Estevan Avenue called The Village Restaurant. They do a wonderful lemon hollandaise Eggs Benedict.

WHERE WOULD YOU SCHEDULE A BUSINESS MEETING?

Our David Foster Foundation Theatre was built with state-of-the art audio/visual and would be a perfect spot for a business meeting.

WHERE’S A GREAT PLACE TO TAKE YOUNG CHILDREN?

Beacon Hill Park’s petting zoo, which features the twice-a-day “goat stampede.”

WHAT’S A UNIQUE-TO-VICTORIA SUMMER ACTIVITY?

The Victoria Symphony Splash has to be one of the most amazing events in our city.

CONNECTOR l THE WILSON’S GROUP

Dillon Carfoot, concierge at the Oak Bay Beach Hotel.

The Victoria Symphony Orchestra plays on a barge in the Inner Harbour to 40,000 locals and tourists. It is quite the sight to see people on the shore and in kayaks, canoes and rowboats watching the show.

This year it takes place on August 5.

WHERE WOULD YOU FIND A UNIQUE SHOPPING EXPERIENCE? Oak Bay Avenue is a lovely tree-lined street with many fabulous shops and restaurants. If guests are looking for something really unique, they should try Side Street Studio, which offers BC artist products. (Jewellery, paintings, clay and wood bowls and jugs, etc.)

WHERE DO YOU TAKE FRIENDS FOR A DRINK?

I love the craft beer movement here in

BC. Spinnakers Brew Pub was Canada’s first in-house brew pub and is still one of the very best.

WHAT’S THE PERFECT DATE SPOT IN VICTORIA?

There is a little park close to the hotel called Anderson Hill Park. The views of McNeil Bay and the wildflowers are stunning. Nowhere better for a picnic with your date. I have arranged a few proposals at this beautiful spot as well.

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

Wow, there have been so many. But I am always amazed when guests ask where the bridge is to Vancouver and if drivers in Canada drive on the same side of the road as the States.

JULY/AUGUST 2018 11

Vancouver's Ice Cream Parlours deliver a Sweet Selection

STORY AND PHOTOS BY LAUREN KRAMER

Above, Yum; top right, Rain or Shine; lower right, Yum.

ummertime means ice cream, a timeless treat inextricably tied to great weather and happy moments with friends and family. The good news is you’re spoiled for choice in Vancouver, a city whose hidden corners yield a sumptuous selection of icy treats.

We hit the sidewalk to find the very best ice cream parlours.

Like people, each of our top three ice cream shops has its own personality — distinct quirks that make it unique and extraordinary. The one thing they all share, however, is supremely good ice cream.

S

YUM!

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The moment you walk into Yum at 4150 Main Street, you start to feel good. Decorated in shades of blue and white, the store is filled with unique candy, fabulous ice cream flavours, homemade ice cream sandwiches, floats and milkshakes.

A newcomer to the scene and the brainchild of Michael Gorenstein, Yum opened in May 2018. Sourcing ice cream from local mom-and-pop company Rocky Point, this shop offers flavours for vegans (mango sorbetto, berry sorbetto), flavours for kids (cotton candy) and flavours for those seeking something a little different, notably Earl Grey and honey, espresso flake and the hokey pokey, with honey and honeycomb.

For liquid pleasure try the salted caramel banana shake, and for something more solid opt for the “tall, dark and handsome” ice cream sandwich — a double chocolate chip cookie with ice cream in between. Be warned: the candies, including vegan jelly beans, green tea caramels, chocolate toffee pistachios and chocolate-dipped Swedish fish will vie for your attention. Info: yumsweetshop.com.

CONNECTOR l THE WILSON’S GROUP

LIKE PEOPLE, EACH OF OUR TOP THREE ICE CREAM SHOPS HAS ITS OWN PERSONALITY — DISTINCT QUIRKS THAT MAKE IT UNIQUE AND EXTRAORDINARY. RAIN OR SHINE

Walk inside Rain or Shine and the aroma of fresh, homemade waffle cones, baked and rolled all day long at the front of the store, is intoxicating. Now consider filling these delectable cones with flavours including coffee toffee, blueberry balsamic, honey lavender, malted milk chocolate honeycomb and vegan chocolate chunk.

These are just a few of the offerings at Rain or Shine, which opened five years ago and has locations at 382 Cambie Street, on theUBC campus, in Kitsilano and in a food truck in English Bay over the summer.

All ice creams are made from scratch and owners Josie Fenton and Blair Casey opt

2018–2019 Season

for natural, sustainable ingredients sourced locally and organically whenever possible.

We tried honey lavender and malted milk chocolate honeycomb — both winning choices — and took home a pint of malted milk chocolate, which is Rain or Shine’s most popular flavour.

Most folks grab a cone and amble lazily along Main Street, where the selection of stores delivers lots more eye candy. Info: rainorshineicecream.com

40 flavours because he was determined to outdo Baskin Robbins’ selection of 36.

Today his store at 1033 Venables Street features a mere 238 flavours, all made onsite in small batches. If ever there were an ice cream shop that makes choice close to impossible, this is it! But the good news is that tastings are unlimited, so take your time and sample lots before making a commitment.

Must-try flavours include Spanish saffron, pear gorgonzola and blue cheese, durian, lavender gelato, basil pernot, maple bacon, aged balsamic vinegar, peach bellini, campfire smores and roasted garlic.

Info: lacasagelato.com

LA CASA GELATO

Vancouver’s oldest independently owned ice cream store, La Casa Gelato opened in 1982 and its founder, the fiercely competitive Vincenzo Misceo, started with

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CONNECTOR l THE WILSON’S GROUP

250-385- 6815 belfry.bc.ca JULY/AUGUST 2018 13

Must-see and must-do events in July and August

FIVE DRIVE ON THE

VICTORIA>VANCOUVER>

VICTORIA

Produced by Intrepid Theatre Company, the Victoria Fringe Theatre Festival will feature 58 shows, 330 performances, 350 artists and free outdoor events for the whole family. Everyone who attends the Fringe buys a membership button ($6), and then tickets are $11 or less at the door. Tickets and passes go on sale August 1. Intrepidtheatre.com

Annual Symphony Splash When: August 5 Where: Victoria's Inner Harbour

Join tens of thousands of music lovers at Victoria’s Inner Harbour and listen to the Victoria Symphony Orchestra perform original and classic pieces from a floating stage. Spread a blanket on the lawn or take to the water in a kayak, sailboat or yacht for an ideal view.

The event includes musical entertainment, food and souvenirs.

Splash is now one of the largest annual symphony events in North America, attracting up to 40,000 Victoria residents and visitors from all over the world. Over 400 volunteers help bring the event to the community. The concert concludes with Tchaikovsky’s 1812 Overture, cannons and fireworks. victoriasymphony.ca

Victoria Fringe

When: August 22 to September 2 Where: Various venues around Victoria

A Vancouver Island festival tradition for 32 years, Victoria Fringe Theatre Festival takes over downtown Victoria each summer for a 12-day celebration of live performance from around the world, featuring an eclectic mix of spoken word, drama, musicals, dance, comedy, magic and theatre for young audiences and more.

14 JULY/AUGUST 2018

Largest Little Airshow When: August 11-12 Where: Michell Airpark

R/C Pilots from all over BC and the USA will be showcasing their skills at Victoria’s Largest Little Airshow, held annually at Michell Airpark on the Saanich Peninsula. Hosted by the Victoria Radio Control Modelers Society, the airshow includes a concession, raffles, daily 50/50 draws, activities for the little ones, a massive static display — and, of course, flying machines!

Admission is by donation, with all proceeds going straight to CFAX Santas Anonymous to support children in need.Grab your lawn chairs, blankets and sun umbrellas, and enjoy a rare spectacle with scale models, WW1 and WW2 aircrafts, giant scale 3-D aerobatics, and ever-thrilling turbine jets! Parking is free; however, if walking or biking is more your style, the park is conveniently located alongside the Lochside Trail (Galloping Goose).

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Rock The Shores

When: July 13-15 Where: Juan de Fuca Recreation Centre

Rock the Shores is back in business, baby! After going into a hiatus following its 2016 banger, the homegrown rock festival is returning to the lower fields of Juan de Fuca Recreation Centre to redeem its reputation of being the biggest and wildest rock event CONNECTOR l THE WILSON’S GROUP

of the summer! Featuring world-class talent while maintaining its commitment to support local and up-and-coming bands, this event attracted over 12,500 fans during its 2012 launch and continues to climb up the popularity scale. This year’s lineup is no letdown, with killer sets from Bahamas, X Ambassadors, Jesse Roper, Frazey Ford, Juliette & The Licks, Brian Wilson, The Sheepdogs, Bedouin Soundclash, Social Distortion and many more. New perks include reserved seating and expanded parking amenities. Let’s not forget the local craft beverages, a dynamic array of cuisine options, music to rock and roll to and an unforgettable experience all around! rocktheshores.com

is when Vancouver’s Playland turns into a first-class fair. The PNE has all of Playland’s usual midway and various amusement rides, including its two major rollercoasters, plus a few additional ones.

What’s more, though, are all the live entertainment, tantalizing food stalls and the excitement of a carnival. The PNE also hosts live outdoor concerts, included in the price of regular admission (visit website for details). Among the many events and performers playing in the PNE Amphitheatre this year, look for: Boyz II Men, Air Supply, Goo Goo Dolls, Lost 80’s Live, Kool & the Gang, Chicago, Cyndi Lauper and Dean Brody. pne.ca/thefair

Classic Boat Festival When: August 31 to September 2 Where: Inner Harbour

This three-day festival held on the Labour Day Weekend celebrates the city’s rich marine culture and it’s one of the area’s most anticipated maritime events. Held in Victoria’s beautiful Inner Harbour and bustling waterfront, the festival brings together one of the largest and most beautiful collections of classic boats in the Pacific Northwest. Alongside the showcasing of these beautiful boats, the waterfront delivers a lively combination of local food, live entertainment, music, demonstrations and displays. And thanks to the assistance of the Canoe Cove Marina, Maritime Museum of BC, Greater Victoria Harbour Authority and other sponsors, the Victoria Classic Boat Festival is absolutely free. classicboatfestival.ca

VANCOUVER PNE Fair

When: August 18 - September 3 (closed august 20 & 27) Where: Playland

The Pacific National Exhibition, or PNE, has been an annual Vancouver fair for over 100 years with rides, shows, farm animals, midway games and concerts. Taking place the last three weeks of the summer and finishing on the Labour Day Weekend, the PNE CONNECTOR l THE WILSON’S GROUP

Honda Celebration of Light

When: July 28, August 1, August 4 Where: English Bay, Second Beach, and various ticketed venues around Vancouver.

Presenting the largest offshore fireworks competition in the world, Honda Celebration of Light returns to Vancouver for its 28th blast of fun. One of the city’s signature summer events, the festival lights up the sky over English Bay for three nights in late July and early August. Three countries compete each year to wow Vancouver crowds, choreographing their fabulous displays to music as the fireworks are launched off a floating barge in the bay.

This year’s competition includes South Africa on July 28, Sweden on August 1 and South Korea on August 4. Crowds flock to the waterfront around English Bay to enjoy food trucks, and music enthusiasts set out picnic blankets and folding chairs on the sand to take in the show at the Park Stage at Second Beach. Hot and cold buffet options will be provided at ticketed venues such as The Keg lounge, Concord Lounge at the Inukshuk and YVR Business Class Cabanas. Along with the fireworks themselves, the Celebration of Light kicks off each evening with an accompanying music festival at Sunset Beach with some of BC’s best talent.

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JULY/AUGUST 2018 15

FIVE ON THE DRIVE

BC Lions Vs. Winnipeg Blue Bombers When: July 14 Where: BC Place Stadium

If you are a Canadian Football League fan, you must have heard of the hard-faced, Vancouver-based BC Lions professional football team. And what a roar they make! Six-time Grey Cup winners, and the oldest and most successful professional sports organization in British Columbia, the BC Lions have dazzled millions with their tenacity and never-ending supply of talent since their first season in 1954. Bring your team spirit and cheering gadgets down to BC place this July and watch them battle the Winnipeg Blue Bombers on their home turf. bclions.com

Vancouver Symphony Orchestra: Harry Potter And The Order Of The Phoenix In Concert

When: July 5-6 at 7 pm and July 7 at 2pm Where: Orpheum Theatre

Let J.K. Rowling’s magical story spellbind you all over again as the film is projected onto a giant screen, and the score is preformed live by top-notch professional musicians.

With Nicholas Buc at the conductor stand, and the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra in full swing, the world of witchcraft and wizardry will spring to life before your eyes. Harry Potter and the Order of the Phoenix is the fifth film in the Harry Potter series, and recounts the heroic actions of Harry Potter and his

friends, now in their fifth year at Hogwarts, as they train a group of students to defend the school against Lord Voldemort. With the Ministry of Magic trying to cover up the truth, and a new, powerhungry Defence Against the Dark Arts professor employing strict regulations upon the students, the showdown between good and evil is as intense as ever! vancouversymphony.ca

Vancouver International Guitar Festival When: August 11-12 Where: Creekside Community Centre

Guitar players, makers, sellers, collectors and aficionados from all over will assemble inside the state-of-the-art quarters of Creekside Community Centre in Vancouver this August for two days of acoustic and electric magic. The Vancouver International Guitar Festival offers an opportunity for guests to watch, listen to, play and even purchase some of the world’s most impressive handcrafted stringed instruments.

Master luthiers from Canada, United States and around the world will be exhibiting their stellar designs stationed onsite to provide information on their creations. Enjoy live concerts from Harry Manx, Van Django and friends, and Vancouver International Guitar Festival All-star Guitar Pull — a southern tradition involving a small group of musicians taking turns with one guitar (in other words, “pulling” it from each other). Attend master classes with industry leaders and experts, visit a variety of vendors of the trade, check out displays of electrics, acoustics, ukuleles and basses in all difference sizes and styles. vancouverguitarfestival.com

Ballet Victoria – Season 2018-2019 Frankenstein McPherson Playhouse Oct 26, 27 | 7:30 pm Oct 28 | 2:00 pm The Gift The Royal Theatre With the Victoria Symphony Dec 28 | 7:30 pm Dec 29, 30 | 2:00 pm

Carmina Burana The Royal Theatre With the Victoria Choral Society and live music March 5, 6 | 7:30 pm Alice in Wonderland The Royal Theatre May 17 | 7:30 pm May 18 | 2:00 pm

P aul D estrooPer - a rtistic D irector - B allet V ictoria . ca 16 JULY/AUGUST 2018

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OFF THE EATEN TRACK

BY DARCY NYBO

VICTORIA HISTORY AND FOOD TOUR

Good taste, Canada!

Victoria’s Fisherman’s Wharf. At top, Nanaimo Bar; at right, classic Caesar cocktail.

OUR CANADIAN TREAT HERE WAS POUTINE, WHICH WAS CREATED IN WARWICK, QUEBEC IN 1957, WHEN A TRUCKER ASKED FOR CHEESE CURDS ON HIS FRIES.

O

ff the Eaten Track has created a delicious way to learn about Victoria and experience real Canadian food. The Eat Like a Canadian Tour is a great way to see the city’s beautiful Inner Harbour, and have some yummy Canadian food while walking off the calories.

Bonnie Todd, owner of Off the Eaten Track, led our tour, which started just past Fisherman’s Wharf and wound along the Inner Harbour and down Government Street.

It’s best to be a little peckish on this tour, as there’s a food or drink at each of the six culinary stops. The tour includes a total of 10 food and beverage samples, including a famous Canadian cocktail. Not to worry, you can still bring the kids along, they just don’t get the cocktail.

We began our tour at Finest at Sea, a 18 JULY/AUGUST 2018

stone’s throw from Fisherman’s Wharf.

This seafood haven has 15 fishing boats, which supply it with the freshest catches of the day.

Finest at Sea provides seafood to several restaurants in BC, two storefronts in Vancouver as well as at the Victoria location. We were treated to some tasty samples, including a delicious candied salmon. There’s a huge smoker in a back room used to create these delicacies. They also have a food truck right out front, so you have the option to enjoy even more scrumptious seafood.

Next stop, the Smoke and Anchor at Fisherman’s Wharf. Our Canadian treat here was poutine, which was created in Warwick, Quebec in 1957, when a trucker asked for cheese curds on his fries. The name roughly translates to “a mess” but it

tastes delicious. Smoke and Anchor smokes its meats for a minimum of 10 hours so the gravy is rich and full of flavour.

Once we’d taken in the sights, sounds and the fabulous ocean air at Fisherman’s Wharf, we continued our walking tour to the Blue Crab restaurant at the Coast Hotel. Here, we sampled a classic Canadian Caesar cocktail. (A virgin Caesar is also available.)

As Bonnie educated us on the history and creation of this all-Canadian drink, we learned that the Caesar has only been around since 1969, when Walter Chell created a signature drink for his Italian restaurant in Calgary. The original Bloody Caesar may have been a take on the American Bloody Mary; it included two shots of vodka, horseradish, Tabasco and Worcestershire sauce poured over ice and CONNECTOR l THE WILSON’S GROUP

filled to the top of a celery-salt-rimmed glass with clamato juice. Statisticians believe over 350 million Caesars are consumed every year in Canada. But don’t try and order it anywhere outside of Canada. They’ll look at you like you’re out of your mind. Clam broth and tomato juice? They don’t know what they’re missing.

Once we ’d taken in some local history, we walked along the harbour, where Bonnie educated us on the making and flavours of Canadian maple syrup. We learned there are three basic grades.

There ’s Grade A medium amber that most of us use on pancakes, Grade A dark amber mostly used in baking, and Grade B dark syrup, gathered at the end of the season, and used mostly in cooking. Once I tasted the dark syrup, I was hooked. This will be my go-to syrup from here on in.

As we continued our walk along the harbour, Bonnie pulled out some packets of ketchup chips. Try and get them outside of Canada and you’ll be out of luck, as a friend of mine recently discovered. While

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Americans find the thought of ketchup chips somewhat repugnant, Canadians love them.

They’ve been around since the ‘70s and Old Dutch claims they sell 7.2 million bags a year!

There’s something about eating the

chips while watching nearby harbour ferries scoot about in the Inner Harbour that makes them taste even better than I remembered. As we munch away, Bonnie fills us in on some of the harbour and Victoria’s history.

Soon it’s time to leave the harbourside walkway and head towards the city itself.

The architecture here makes for a slow walk as most of the time is spent gawking at the turn-of-the-century buildings and learning about their origins.

There are more stops along the way, including BC wine tasting, honey tasting and an olive oil and infused balsamic vinegar tasting. It wouldn’t be a Canadian tour without the oh-so-Canadian Beavertail and the delicious Nanaimo Bar. (You’ll even get a copy of the original Nanaimo Bar recipe.)

This tour runs June to October from Monday to Saturday, 2 to 5 pm, with reduced pricing for youth. It’s a great way to see Victoria through the eyes of a food-loving Canadian. Check out the website for more information and pricing: offtheeatentracktours.ca/victoria.

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HIT THE KIM JAY PHOTO

PHOTOS AND TEXT

BY SIERRA LUNDY

ROAD

STYLE-SAVVY TRAVELLERS

Todd Menzies Claim to fame:

Owner and operator of Menzies Music Productions; president and co-founder of Golden Sound Festival in Golden, BC; and Head of Production at Timbre Concerts in Vancouver.

Where are you from and how did you get to Vancouver? I grew up in a small farming

community East of Peterborough, Ontario.

In 2002, I moved out west in pursuit of the mountains and my love for snowboarding. I spent three years in Whistler and nine years in Golden, BC, before moving to Vancouver in the summer of 2014 to expand my career in the music industry. I took a fivemonth sublet from my friend Miss Quincy while she was on tour, quickly fell in love with East Van and the art and music scene here, and knew it was the right fit for me.

How did you get into the local music scene?

I played in the band Willhorse, which often toured through Vancouver, and was part of the Peak Performance Project in 2013. After Willhorse disbanded in the summer of 2014, I took a gig playing bass for Rolla Olak and moved to Vancouver. Securing a job with Timbre Concerts in February 2015 as a production manager was what really opened the doors to the Vancouver music scene.

What does your work involve? Whether I'm running production for Timbre Concerts, booking and tour-managing bands under Menzies Music Productions, or acting as the Artistic Director of Golden Sound Festival, my job involves a lot of organization and communicating with artists, agents and venues. But let’s not forget the best part of my job — listening to music and going to live shows.

How does your work influence your personal style? “Business casual” would sum it up 20 JULY/AUGUST 2018

On Todd: T-shirt, EVBL ($30) from 8th & Main (or eastvanbaseball.com); denim shirt, Zara Man slim fit from Front & Company; boots, Dr. Marten 1460 ($150) from Zelen Shoes; jeans, Vans V16 ($80) from Vans; necklace, Zeleska Jewelry ($40) from Zeleska at East Side Flea; sunglasses, Ray-Ban 3405 ($150) from Hudson Bay; bag, Timbuk 2 Tuk Pack ($89) from MEC. CONNECTOR l THE WILSON’S GROUP

best. I work with a lot of rock and punk bands, so denim and leather have been a staple in my closet. Chuck Taylors and Doc Martins have kept my wheels turning for all these years.

What does good travelling style mean to you?

Practical fashion — comfort is essential when travelling. I do a lot of my work on the run; buses, planes and automobiles. Long flights and even longer drives have made me aware of how sometimes comfort outweighs the value of style. But I always maintain a respectful look, because you never know who you'll meet along the way.

What are your current top five most-played songs? “Drive On” by Matt Mays, “Blood

in the Cut” by K.Flay, “King of Bones” by B.R.M.C, “Fade Away” by Mobina Galore and “Life Support” by Timeshares.

How about a sunny day off? In the summer

I'm likely playing baseball in the East Van Baseball League or fishing somewhere north of the city. I also take advantage What do you like to do on a rainy day off? of Vancouver's parks and beaches with a Record shopping! I've been collecting records Mexican blanket, book and a few Strange since I was 13. I take advantage of being on Fellows beers. the road so much, always finding the local What do like to do while you’re riding the shops to do some vinyl digging. I'm also a bus? Work. I like to consider the bus my coffee connoisseur, so maybe I’ll be in the mobile office with a view. Headphones corner of a local cafe with a good book in in, laptop out and working just enough hand.

to feel productive, while still taking in the scenic views that pass by. The Seato-Sky Highway between Vancouver and Whistler will never get old.

Anything else we should know? I'm a

pescatarian and environmentalist. I advocate local shopping and minimal waste. I am also a huge supporter of the LGBTQ community. I believe in love and equality for all human beings.

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MEET THE WILSON’S GROUP TEAM environment where I can hone my skills while learning more about the business.

ERIC CACHOLA

Jr. Operations Coordinator Two years with Wilson’s

What are your hobbies outside of the job?

Where were you born and where did you grow up? I was born in the Philippines in

I like playing sports and hiking with my friends. I have been playing ultimate frisbee for almost 10 years, competing in big tournaments in many different cities. Also, I’m a huge fan of travelling; fortunately, I have a lot of relatives in California so my family and I use that as an excuse to frequently make road-trips down the West Coast.

a little province named Bagac, a couple of hours drive from Manila. I moved to Vancouver when I was 10 years old and have been a Vancouverite ever since.

Who is your family? My mom, Mary; my dad, Albert; and my sister, Erielle.

What path did you take to get to this job? During college, I was working

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

full-time as a line cook but found it had limited growth opportunities.

Although I studied computer programming, I have always had an interest in transportation, so when I heard of this job opening, I saw it as an opportunity for a fresh start. Working at Wilson’s has made me think about pursuing a career in this industry.

What do you like best about this job? The best part about this job is

feeling like you are part of a collaborative environment that shares the same vision. There is a genuine culture of cooperation to create great results and achieve the same goals. My position puts me in an

There is nothing better than cruising the city, from the Sea-to-Sky Highway all the way to the roads of Steveston. There is something for everyone, whether it’s PHOTO BY SIERRA LUNDY eating different types of international cuisines or hiking various trails up in the North Shore Mountains. One of my favourite trails is Joffre Lakes, which I recommend for anyone who doesn’t mind driving a bit for a great hike. It’s relatively easy and the view at the end is surreal.

Anything else you’d like to share? I would like to give a special shout-out to Thomas, Nicky and the drivers I interact with daily. These guys have been an integral part of my personal and professional growth over the last couple of years. I’m looking forward to working with them for many more years in this amazing company!

The Butchart Gardens' spectacular summer evenings

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Floral splendour abounds throughout the year at Victoria’s The Butchart Gardens, with thousands upon thousands of colourful blooms.

But things really heat up in summer.

Enjoy extended hours from June 15 to September 15, with the Admissions Gate closing at 10 pm, and the grounds remaining open until 11 pm.

This is the time of Night Illuminations when, at dusk, a play of light and shadow creates a magical transition from daylight. The Dining Room and Blue Poppy Restaurant are also open for dinner during this time.

On June 30, and continuing

on Saturday evenings until September 1, a fireworks show of epic proportions gets underway, choreographed to music. It’s a show certain to delight all who see it.

Summer evenings at The Butchart Gardens feature live performances on the Concert Lawn stage, showcasing a mix of local musicians and world-renowned artists.

Every evening from June 30 to September 1, visitors will enjoy the open air performances as part of their admission tickets.

The complete summer entertainment schedule is posted online at butchartgardens.com

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Spectacular Summer Evenings

The perfect time to visit!

All included in your admission* Night Illuminations and Summer Hours until 10pm June 15th – September 15th

As dusk falls Night Illuminations transform The Gardens into a wonderland Nightly Entertainment and Saturday evening Fireworks June 30th – September 1st

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Open daily at 9am Victoria, British Columbia Canada butchartgardens.com

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