Special Features - Tweed Magazine - Summer 2018

O A K B AY L I V I N G

TWEED SUMMER 2018

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TWEED Summer 2018

Volume 6 | Issue 2

inside

10 Home Sweet Home Finding a peaceful sanctuary in South Oak Bay.

DEPARTMENTS

19

Tea with Tess

Editor Tess van Straaten talks with Prince of Whales founder Alan McGillivray.

30

Oak Bay Insider

36

Travel

42

Dogs on the Avenue

10

TELL

TWEED! Tweed Magazine welcomes your Oak Bay suggestions for the next edition.

So, do tell!

Email editor Tess van Straaten at: tweededitor@gmail.com

Beach time! Christopher Causton shares his secret spots along the water.

Nothing says summer vacation like a Rocky Mountain hiking adventure for the whole family.

Photographer Don Denton captures cute and cuddly canines.

On the Cover: The sunny kitchen of a South Oak Bay house that is home sweet home for its owner.

Photo by Don Denton.

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“A landmark in Canadian theatre.” The Guardian

Classic Dramedy!

the drawer boy

by MICHAEL HEALEY

july 3-15

TALK of the TOWN !

I

t’s the season for fun in the sun and there’s no shortage of things to do outdoors in Oak Bay this summer!

From Oak Bay Avenue night markets (the second Wednesday of the month through to September), classic car and outdoor art shows to free beach-side concerts and the Oak Bay Beach Hotel’s popular winemaker’s dinner series, there is something for everyone.

Oak Bay Collector Car Festival.

“One of the most exciting and innovative musicals in the genre’s history.” - The Guardian

Classic Musical!

SWEENEY TODD

THE DEMON BARBER OF FLEET STREET

by Stephen Sondheim

july 31-august 12

10TH ANNIVERSARY SEASON

BLUE BRIDGE REPERTORY THEATRE

Tickets online at bluebridgetheatre.ca or in person at the

Roxy Theatre, 2657 Quadra Street 250-382-3370 6

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SUMMER 2018

Bring a blanket or picnic and enjoy Free Summer Concerts at Willows Beach. The concert series, put on by Oak Bay Parks, Recreation and Culture, showcases a variety of musical styles by local performers including the Victoria Soul Gospel Choir (June 29th), Anne Schaefer (July 12th), Four Chords of Wood (July 26th), R&B/ funk/soul/Motown band Brandy Moore & the Nightcaps (August 9th) and Black Angus (August 23rd). The free concerts are from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. at Willows Beach Park.

If you’re looking for a sumptuous summer feast, the Oak Bay Beach Hotel’s annual Winemaker’s Long Table Dinner Series is dishing up a multi-course, family-style dinner in the hotel’s beautiful seaside gardens at the edge of the Salish Sea. With a menu created by executive chef Kreg Graham and British Columbia wines presented

and poured by guest winemakers and winery owners, these popular dinners are held once a month in the summer and limited to 32 guests. Advance bookings are recommended. Tweed editor Tess van Straaten will be at the next dinner July 19th. The final long table dinner for the season is August 16th.

Classic car owners and enthusiasts will fill Oak Bay Avenue on Sunday, July 29th for the Oak Bay Collector Car Festival.

The free event, which runs from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., features hundreds of vintage and collector cars of all makes and models and draws thousands of spectators.

There are also activities and entertainment for the whole family as well as a prime rib BBQ from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. on the lawn outside Municipal Hall. For car owners who want to take part, there’s no need to pre-register. You can arrive at the show entrance starting Cont. on page 9

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EDITOR'S LETTER

Happy Summer!

S

ummer is, by far, my favourite season.

It’s not just the warm weather and sunshine but also the long stretch of glistening daylight each day that makes anything seem possible. It almost feels like there are more hours in the day in the summer and more time for bike rides, hikes and exploring. Or perhaps, we make more time for fun in the sun.

A few years ago, my two sons and I decided to prioritize fun by making a summer fun list of all the things we wanted to do in Oak Bay and around Vancouver Island during their summer holiday. It started with 30 ‘must-do’ adventures such as kayaking in McNeill Bay, swinging our clubs at Henderson Golf Course, swimming at Sooke Potholes and making day trips to Cowichan Bay and beyond.

Some adventures — like after-dinner bike rides and walking up the Walbran — could be completed in less than an hour while others were whole-day affairs. Depending on how much time we had, I’d reel off the options and the kids would pick something to cross of our list. By the end of summer, we’d done it all and made so many incredible memories. It was the best to-do list ever and we’ve since expanded it to a 100item, year-long fun list.

In this issue of Tweed, we have some summer inspiration for you from discovering secret spots along the water (Oak Bay Insider) and hiking in the mountains (Rocky Mountain Adventure) to

an Oak Bay man’s extraordinary life of travel and art (Artist & Ambassador) and cool, sport-chic fashions for all your outdoor adventures (Fairway Fashion). Enjoy this amazing season! And don’t forget the sun block.

We Sell Special Homes in Oak Bay… Yours.

Tess van Straaten Tweed editor

Thinking of Selling? Contact me for a house evaluation.

Julie Rust REALTOR®

Office: 250.385.2033 julie@julierust.ca

www.julierust.ca

info@newportrealty.com www.newportrealty.com 250.385.2033 8

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SUMMER 2018

Marc Owen-Flood

more talk of the town

Personal Real Estate Corporation

Cont. from page 6

Oak Bay Specialist

at 7:30 a.m. and pay the $15 entrance fee (to cover costs), which includes a free BBQ drink coupon and a special car show coupon for breakfast at The Oaks Restaurant.

The Oak Bay Community Artists Society is hosting the Bowker Creek Brush-Up Art Show and Sale on Sunday, August 12th. There’s no admission fee for the annual event, which showcases dozens of local artists demonstrating and selling their art along beautiful Bowker Creek between Hampshire Road and Oak Bay High. There’s also music, a kids’ art tent and a fundraising BBQ. The event runs from 11 a.m. to 4:30 p.m.

Publisher and advertising inquiries Janet Gairdner jgairdner@blackpress.ca 250-480-3251 Group Publisher Penny Sakamoto Advertising Janet Gairdner John Stewart

Editor Tess van Straaten tweededitor@gmail.com Associate Editor Lia Crowe Creative Director Lily Chan Creative Services Michelle Gjerde Lyn Quan

Hampshire House $553,000.00

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■ Excellent layout with large principle rooms ■ Four Bedrooms and Two Bathrooms ■ South East Facing back deck with hot tub ■ Easy landscaped front and back garden ■ Located between UVIC and Camosun College ■ Close to Henderson Golf Course and Rec Centre ■ MLS 389990 – Visit owen-flood.com for pics & floorplan

Photo Supervisor Don Denton Distribution 250-480-3285

www.oakbaynews.com 207A-2187 Oak Bay Ave. Victoria, BC V8R 1G1 Phone 250-598-4123

TWEED magazine is published quarterly by Black Press. The points of view or opinions expressed herein are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of the publisher of Tweed. The contents of Tweed magazine are protected by copyright, including the designed advertising. Reproduction is prohibited without written consent of the publisher.

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OAK BAY HOME

HOME

sweet home Finding a peaceful sanctuary in South Oak Bay

By DEVON MACKENZIE Photos by DON DENTON

Vintage glass insulators line the window in the bright kitchen of this South Oak Bay home.

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ucked away on a quiet street in the heart of South Oak Bay is Claudia de Veaux’s sanctuary — a 2,500-squarefoot home built in 2012 with three bedrooms and three bathrooms.

But for Claudia, it’s more than just a home; it’s where she can breathe deeply, think clearly and take time for herself. Because when she’s not in Victoria, she’s in the thick of the tech industry in the Silicon Valley.

As a technical writer, Claudia spends weeks at a time away from home, so when she does get to come back to Oak Bay, she’s exactly where she wants to be.

“I grew up in Seattle, so I always loved the Pacific Northwest,” explains Claudia. “My sister moved here and married a Canadian and eventually, I decided I wanted to be here too, so I made a five-year plan to move here and I did it. Really, it was one of the only times I’ve actually had a concrete plan,” she says, laughing.

After moving to Victoria in 2001, Claudia bought a home on Beach Drive but eventually sold that property and moved to Saanich.

“It was central, I guess, but I always found myself back in Oak Bay — especially at the beach,” she explains.

“Whether it was walking the dog, or just enjoying a walk alone, it was just where I wanted to be and so, the hunt was on.”

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Claudia de Veaux looks out out the kitchen window at her garden oasis.

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An extensive art collection fills the walls of Claudia’s home.

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SUMMER 2018

After an entire year of looking, Claudia bought her Victoria Avenue home in 2016 and has been happily adding to the blank canvas a new home acquisition provides since then.

“I just love this house,” she says, motioning around the spacious and bright open concept living/dining/kitchen area, which is at the rear of the house overlooking a private, manicured back yard and standalone garage.

“My favourite part is all the wall space and natural light which is absolutely perfect for my art,” she adds.

Coming from an artistic family — many of her paintings are by her father and sister — the home offers ample wall room for the display of art in various forms. Along with her art collection, Claudia has a striking collection of vintage glass insulators which line the window sills through the kitchen. The natural backlighting makes the insulators sparkle and shows off each piece’s unique attributes.

“Collecting those, it’s addictive,” laughs Claudia. “I’m not usually big into the decorating aspect of a home, but with this house I’ve really been enjoying it.”

Another quirky feature in the kitchen is her collection of android figurines, a nod to her professional background, which she has cleverly displayed in the built-in wine rack in the kitchen.

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“I don’t drink so it turned out to be the perfect use for that space,” she says, smiling.

Moving through the main floor, Claudia’s office is located near the front of her house. Aiming to travel less and find a better work/life balance, she wanted the perfect place to be able to work from home uninterrupted. A custom desk, which she had built to spec for her needs, fills the far and back wall of the room and a full, almost floor-to-ceiling window allows for plenty of natural light.

“I have no trouble working from home,” she says. “I find it very satisfying to be able to work from here when I can and having a beautiful office does help.”

Also at the anterior of the house, near the front door, is the staircase to the second floor. Stepped windows on the front of the house bathe the stairwell in natural light, which is accented with paper-look globe light fixtures that Claudia picked out herself. Again, more art dons the walls through the hall upstairs, which goes off at an angle. It’s a feature Claudia noticed right away.

“It just adds that little aspect of the unexpected, rather than just having a straight line to the back of the house,” she says.

Off the hall to the right and left are two guest bedrooms, which are vital as Claudia’s children and family love to

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come visit, as well as the guest bathroom. Ahead, at the end of the hall, is the ample, airy master bedroom and en suite bath which overlook neighbouring yards filled with mature trees.

“I love the view out back,” Claudia explains, adding that the whole bedroom has a very serene and tidy feel to it. “I almost feel like I’m walking into a room at a Four Seasons in the city, which is a pretty nice thing to be able to feel every time you come into your bedroom.”

It’s been just over two years since she moved in and Claudia says she couldn’t be happier.

“I always wanted a pretty house. Not necessarily cozy, but pretty, and that’s exactly what I’ve been able to create here. For me, this house is all about the art; I look at it and enjoy it every single day that I’m here,” she says.

“I moved here to get out of the rat race, I had some political motivations too, but either way, I was very driven to do it. Victoria is home now and I’m always happy when I come home.”

In a world where things are moving faster than ever and many things are in a constant state of flux, Claudia feels grounded in her Oak Bay oasis.

“I guess you could say Canada brings clarity,” she says, laughing.

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TEAwithTESS

Alan McGillivray Where you were born and who is your family?

I was born in Regina, Saskatchewan. Luckily, my father was transferred to Victoria in 1960, just in time for me to start grade one at Frank Hobbs Elementary. Our family home on Ten Mile Point is still owned by my sister and looks across Cadboro Bay towards the beach and the Royal Victoria Yacht Club. My wife and I have three fabulous daughters.

Tell us about the $3.5 million Salish Sea Dream that debuted last year and why you’ve already ordered another one?

CLAIM TO FAME IN OAK BAY: Prince of Whales Whale Watching Founder

We moved into town from Ardmore in 2006 after enjoying 12 years on Saanich Inlet. Oak Bay was closer to our growing business in the harbour and also more convenient for kids and school.

The trend in the marine tourism industry is shifting from the zodiac days of the 1990s to larger platforms like the Salish Sea Dream. It’s a very fast and comfortable, state-of-the-art catamaran that is marine-friendly in design, quiet and more energy efficient, leading to a more whalefriendly and environmentally-friendly experience.

What do you love about Oak Bay?

Why is protecting the environment important to you?

How long have you lived in Oak Bay?

I love the proximity to walking Willows or Cadboro Bay beaches with our pooch, Daisy. Being in Oak Bay is fabulous since it’s one of the most beautiful neighbourhoods in the country with friendly people. Oak Bay Village has wonderful stores and restaurants and it’s easily accessible by walking or cycling.

What’s it like running B.C.’s biggest whale watching company?

Every day is interesting in the marine tourism scene!

The abundance and diversity of marine wildlife is always astounding. This year, there were reports of the first Sperm whale spotted in the Salish Sea. Continuing whale research is being done that reveals the secret lives of marine mammals in our adjacent waters and it’s fascinating stuff!

It is critical that we keep the oceans as pristine as possible to ensure the best survival rates of marine animals, right down to the smallest organisms.

What brings you joy?

In the tourism industry, we have happy customers day after day. It’s a joy to share the tourism experience with travellers (and locals) enjoying the different ocean tours we offer and even Miniature World, which we purchased last year.

What’s the best advice you’ve ever received?

Always sleep on a difficult decision. Rushing a decision may not allow you to consider all the options and considerations.

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OAK BAY FASHION

Tee Time!

Fashion on the Fairway Photos and text by LIA CROWE Makeup and hair by JEN CLARK Styling assistance by VELLAR CHOU

W

hether on the course or in the clubhouse, keep cool and carefree this summer in sport-chic looks that are classic, casual and oh-so-easy.

At the Victoria Golf Club, which is celebrating its 125th anniversary this year and is the oldest 18-hole golf course in Canada in its original location and the second oldest in North America, membership director Jessica Cruise says she loves integrating new members and making the club feel like a second home for them.

Navy v-neck sweater ($149.95) and straight-leg pants ($204.95) by Ralph Lauren, golf sneakers ($109.95) by Sketchers, all from the Victoria Golf Club Pro Shop; pink polo shirt model’s own; sterling silver ‘wave’ disc necklace ($65) from Loops Jewellery loopsjewellery.com.

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“Victoria Golf Course is such a special place and even my drive into work every morning gets me excited!” Jessica says.

Outside of her professional life Jessica says, “I get to be a mom and although it’s the hardest job I’ve ever had, I get to love two kids more than I thought was humanly possible and the rewards are really too many to count.”

When it comes to fashion, Jessica describes her style as classic and simple.

“As much as I love to dress up, I’m always attracted to pieces that will transition easily from a business meeting to the golf course,” she says.

“I wear very simple jewellery and I love Loops Jewellery,” which is hand-made in Victoria.

Ottoman striped dress ($175) by MICHAEL Michael Kors from Tulipe Noire; sterling silver ‘wave’ disc necklace ($65), sterling silver ‘satellite’ chain necklace ($70) and sterling silver ‘spinnaker’ earrings ($80) from Loops Jewellery loopsjewellery.com.

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Black military dress ($195) by MICHAEL Michael Kors from Tulipe Noire; 14k gold fill dome necklace ($50) and sterling silver studs ($40) both from Loops Jewellery loopsjewellery.com.Â

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Pink stretch linen dress ($390) by Nicole Miller Atelier from Bernstein & Gold; sterling silver ‘wave’ disc necklace ($65), sterling silver ‘satellite’ chain necklace ($70), sterling silver ‘spinnaker’ earrings ($80), sterling silver cuffs ($40) and 14k gold fill and 14k rose gold fill cuffs ($48) all from Loops Jewellery loopsjewellery.com; shoes are models own.

OAK BAY ARTIST

ARTIST &

Ambassador

By IVAN WATSON Photos by DON DENTON

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Retired Ambassador Victor Lotto’s life of painting the world

7D

A

sk Victor Lotto for advice on art and he’ll reply with typical modesty and understated charm.

“Buy good paper, and paints and brushes,” he says with a wry smile. “Don’t scrimp on those things and start painting.”

His brief reply gives no hint of his extraordinary career, blending success at the top tier of Canada’s Foreign Service with a lifetime of travel and art. You could say Lotto got an early start, beginning to paint as a young boy growing up in Toronto.

“In grade four my teacher thought I had some talent and she enrolled me in a special class at the Art Gallery of Ontario where I learned from Charles Comfort,” Lotto recalls.

“Every Saturday, my older sister would take me there in the streetcar and wait for me. She hated every minute of it, but I thoroughly enjoyed it.”

At Jarvis Collegiate High School, he started winning art competitions. At the University of Toronto, Lotto was the cartoonist for The Varsity newspaper, working alongside a young Peter Gzowski.

After earning a degree in political science and economics, he worked at Trans Canada Airlines as a ‘space control clerk’, pencilling in passenger bookings on paper charts organized in a large turntable.

“You can imagine how archaic it was,” he says. “When a

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FIND O JAZZE

cancellation came in I’d have to erase that leg by hand.”

Seeking more excitement, Lotto was accepted into graduate studies at the London School of Economics in England.

“With the complete connivance and permission of my supervisor at Trans Canada, I had a pass to London and my resignation became effective two days after I arrived.”

However, his time at LSE was shortlived. “I found a room in Notting Hill and quickly discovered that the greater excitement was living in London. I went to class for a couple of days and thought, this is ridiculous, there are too many other things to do!”

After quitting university, Lotto sat alone in Trafalgar Square worrying about what to embark on next and that’s when fate intervened. “I started talking to this Canadian fellow who was teaching school. He was resigning the next day, and he thought they’d hire me.”

Lotto got the job. For the next 19 months, he taught at Bromyard Secondary Modern School in East Acton,

Victor Lotto’s watercolours capture life in Oak Bay and around the world.

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where his pupils often came from disadvantaged backgrounds. Lotto enjoyed the experience, but the lure of travel on the continent proved irresistible.

“I travelled around Europe with an easel and my paints, selling pictures to tourists,” he recalls fondly. “I ended up in Spain in a village near Alicante, and at that time I wanted to stay there for the rest of my life — the wine was great and it was full of really interesting, creative types.”

But one day he received a letter and a money order from his concerned brother telling him to come home and start thinking about a proper career. Back in Toronto, Lotto worked as a social worker and with Northern Affairs Canada before taking, and passing, the Foreign Service exam because of his yearning to travel again.

Around this time, he met his wife Nicky, who was from Victoria. They got married in Ottawa in April of 1963 and Lotto was given his first diplomatic posting in Beirut. The couple’s first son was born the following year.

“I was the junior man in the embassy,” he recalls. “I was assigned a lot of travelling going regularly to Jeddah and Riyadh, and as a young guy, I thought I was Lawrence of Arabia.”

From 1966 to 1968, Lotto worked in Detroit on the newly signed auto pact. Then, he got his dream posting in Milan as consul and trade commissioner. Amidst the wonders of Italian art and architecture, inspiration for painting was everywhere.

“It was my great reward,” he says. “We travelled all

around Italy. On weekends, we rented a cottage up in the mountains and took the whole family up for the fresh air and scenery. I painted a lot.”

In Milan, Lotto hosted a show for the famed artist JeanPaul Riopelle. “It was the thrill of talking with him,” he says.

“That night I went home and painted my own version of a Riopelle abstract.”

In 1970, the artist and diplomat returned to Canada for the government’s new exchange program with industry and worked on loan to the Labatt Corporation.

“It was my three kids’ introduction to Canada,” he says.

“The company gave me lots of opportunities to do interesting work.” He was made director of a Labatt pasta-making subsidiary in Trinidad, helping to expand and modernize it,

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providing secure jobs to local workers.

Subsequent postings took him to Ottawa with the Canadian International Development Agency and to India from 1976 to 1979 as development and trade counsellor.

“The spectacle of Indian art and architecture was really remarkable,” Lotto says. “Yet, in the day, I worked on identifying projects where Canada could help provide assistance to the poorest of the poor.”

In 1979, Lotto was appointed Consul General in Sao Paolo, Brazil. He is particularly proud of securing funding for an animation school within the University of Sao Paolo that still exists today. During an official visit, Prime Minister Pierre Trudeau asked Lotto to show him the city’s nightlife and he arranged a tour of the famous Oba-Oba club.

“Somebody recognised Trudeau and they pulled him up on the stage and he did the samba with all these girls dancing back and forth,” recalls Lotto. “Oh, he really enjoyed himself — we all did.”

After serving as Canada’s Ambassador to Venezuela, Lotto returned home to run the federal trade office in Vancouver.

It brought the Lotto family nearer to his wife’s roots in Victoria. Later, he taught at the University of Victoria and retired to Oak Bay. “I started volunteering as soon as I got here,” he says. “I can’t think of a more pleasant place to live.”

Lotto is a fixture at the Moss Street Paint-In, the Bowker Creek Brush-Up and is a member of the Probus Club and past president of the Victoria Sketch Club. He paints almost every day, finding inspiration in the parks and built features of our community.

“I’ve painted a lot of Oak Bay heritage homes as well as pen and ink sketches,” he says.

Lotto still has all of his sketchbooks going back to 1959, which chart his world travels and evolution as an artist. They form the visual diary of a life well-lived.

“Occasionally, I teach workshops at Opus and use the sketchbooks,” he says, flipping through beautiful watercolours he painted on a trip to southern Spain. “People like to see my travel sketches and I try to pass on some tips for them to do the same.”

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Life’s a Beach in Oak Bay

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Christopher Causton was mayor of Oak Bay for 15 years. He is now the Goodwill Ambassador and a captain with Victoria Harbour Ferries. He is the former owner of Jason’s and Rattenbury’s (Old Spaghetti Factory) and is a classically trained hotelier.

A member of Harbourside Rotary for 32 years, he flies flags in his spare time.

hen I dream of building sandcastles two places that immediately come to mind are Seaview, on the Isle of Wight, and Rathtrevor Beach in Parksville. Here in Oak Bay, we may not be known for our forts of sand, but it would hard to find another place in the world that has as many wonderful quiet and secret coves that are publicly accessible.

Last summer in Tweed, I shared my favorite pocket beaches in South Oak Bay and now, as they say, here’s the rest of the story. Immediately to the north of the Victoria Golf Club sits the Oak Bay Beach Hotel. When it was built, council ensured that there would always continue to be public beach access. A path runs down the side of the building to the little pocket beach next to the spa. Some call this place Miracle’s Beach, named after the whale that was nursed back to life in the former Oak Bay Beach Hotel pool. After a visit to the Snug, the next stop is the beach just past 1247 Beach where you have to navigate down tricky railings that have seen better days. There is a convenient log to sit on and contemplate that you are close to the spot where Captain John Voss and Norman Luxton set out on Tilikum, an 11.5-meter dugout canoe rigged for sail, for an ambitious global circumnavigation in 1901.

Continuing north, at the end of Queens’ Park, is a sandy little beach sometimes full of dinghies. The view here, looking across to the marina and Mary Tod Island, is spectacular. Rattenbury Beach, next to Glenlyon Norfolk School, is a popular place to sit and paint. The most popular day here is when GNS has its students build and launch boats from this beach. The only condition is that they can only spend $5 on a boat! Voss and Luxton would have been proud.

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To connect with the series of pocket beaches in the Uplands, wander past Willows Beach and Cattle Point. These two very popular spots all have their history and stories for another time, but make sure you check out family names on benches. My favourite is Harry and Beryl Borris whose plaques practically cover the whole bench.

The most recent one celebrated 75 years of marriage with the inscription ‘still standing!’

Years ago, when Oak Bay Council sensibly determined that it was imperative that the residents have access to the waterfront, the Municipality bought headlands, like Queens’ Park, and right of ways that led to beach access. They put up signs indicating public beach access, and through the years residents have respected what is public property next to private property. When you walk through the Uplands, you see these ‘public access’ signs. Some lead to overflow outfalls such as Humber and Rutland. Others lead to pocket beaches like the one at the end of Surrey, which is my all-time favourite. For peace and tranquility, it’s hard to beat.

As you go north to the Uplands gates, there is one last beach to check out. Sitting at the end of Exeter Road, it is a surprisingly large and lonely beach. I like to sit here and listen to the rigging from the boats at the Royal Victoria Yacht Club and imagine all the boats leaving, over the years, on great adventures.

Those who came before us had the foresight to ensure that we all had access to public beaches, and also ensured that there would be a road, Beach Drive, from which all those spots would be accessible. It’s just another of those little things that makes living in Oak Bay so wonderful, even if it’s tough to find good sand to build sandcastles!

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Contact us if you or your loved ones need support.

Be a part of our community.

Come volunteer with us!

Celebrating 125 years

1110 Beach Drive 250-598-4321 victoriagolf.com

A Golf Club is really only as good as its staff and as we celebrate 125 years as a Golf Club, we also celebrate the people that make this place home.

The team at VGC are a perfect testament to the Club’s values of Respect, Innovation, Pride, Passion, Leadership and Excellence. This mantra of RIPPLE is lived by the staff of the Club and epitomized by the team identified in the picture, who’s combined years of service exceed 125.

As we head into our 125th year, we are proud

to be more relevant in the community than ever. The vibrant clubhouse is often bustling with members ranging from ages 5 to 100, with generations of families that enjoy the Club seven nights a week, 364 days of the year.

Last year, thanks to our dedicated team, VGC was recognized as the “Best Club of the Year” by the Canadian Society of Club Managers.

Here’s to the next 125 years in the Oak Bay Community!

(Left to right: Lucy Reniger, HR/Payroll Administrator - 32 years, Scott Kolb, General Manager - 22 years, Donna Cool, Membership Administrator - 39 years, Dave McKellar, Links Foreman - 37 years)

OAK BAY FEATURE

Musician Tony Genge takes a break from rehearsal.

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A life of jazz for Oak Bay’s Tony Genge

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r. Tony Genge looks a little pale and tired as we settle into chairs at the dining room table in his Oak Bay home. Life as a professional jazz musician is tough, and he was up late driving down from a live recording session at Nanaimo’s Lighthouse Bistro with saxophonist Ryan Oliver’s band. Genge will be playing again in a few hours at a practice session and then at another gig at Hermann’s Jazz Club so while he may have retired from his career in academia, he sure hasn’t slowed down much.

“I was featured on the B3 organ at UJAM’s March chamber jazz showcase at the Art Gallery of Greater Victoria and I recorded with vocalist Joe Coughlin in Vancouver for three nights,” Genge tells me, while taking off his wire-framed glasses and rubbing his sore, red eyes. “Drummer Hans Verhoeven, guitarist Bill Coon, plus me on organ. Joe loves that guitar-organ sound.”

Genge grew up in Vancouver, catching the last years of the city’s jazz supper clubs like The Cave, Oil Can Harry’s, and Isy’s. He used to go with his father to these historic Vancouver joints when the clubs hosted jazz greats like Ella Fitzgerald, Cannonball Adderley and Jimmy Smith.

“I saw Jimmy Smith at Isy’s when I was just in high school,” Genge remembers. “You know, he pretty much invented the jazz organ trio sound.”

As a student, Genge studied and wrote contemporary classical composition, working for his doctorate with famous modern composer Morton Feldman at Buffalo, New York’s SUNY after picking up a masters degree at McGill and a BA at the University of Victoria.

“UVic had a very strong music faculty in ’76-’77,” Genge explains. “Then I went travelling in the early ‘80s, visiting

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Genge grew up in Vancouver, catching the last years of the city’s jazz supper clubs like The Cave, Oil Can Harry’s, and Isy’s.

Indonesia and Bali and studying gamelan music. In Japan, I worked with composers Toru Takemitsu and Jo Kondo. Jo Kondo told me to go study with Feldman. I thought I’d be an academic, but by then the academic jobs had dried up.”

In the mid-80s, Genge’s wife was a violin teacher at the Victoria Conservatory of Music. They had the first of two daughters, Kathleen, who is now a chemist operating UBC’s TRIUMF Cyclotron Particle Accelerator, so Genge became a self-described house husband and started getting calls for jazz piano gigs including one night a Pagliacci’s playing with visiting saxophone star Eddie ‘Lockjaw’ Davis. He also had a steady gig with veteran jazz great Paul Horn who spent the last couple decades of his career in Victoria, famously playing his flute for captive whales at Sealand of the Pacific and almost single-handedly inventing New Age Music. Genge also did the writing for Horn’s Christmas LP The Peace Album.

“In the middle of all this activity, I saw a posting for a university teaching position at St. Francis Xavier in Antigonish, Nova Scotia, teaching classical and jazz. I thought I could do that, so I sent them a tape of my playing and they interviewed me over the phone, and I thought okay, I’ll try it for a year...28 years later,” Genge adds with a twinkle that breaks through his late-night funk.

“St. FX is a small university with a large music program. I had lots of travel and special projects. I helped set up a visit-

ing artist program that brought in jazz musicians like John Abercrombie, Jeff Hamilton and Roberta Gambarini. It was cool to play with those people. I played often with vocalist Jeri Brown when she was artist in residence, too.”

Genge released his CD debut as a leader, Blues Walk, in 2004. These days, in addition to leading his own combos and playing with Ryan Oliver, Joe Coughlin, and Kelby MacNayr, Genge tours up-Island with drummer Jon Miller’s group and was a special guest during Victoria Jazz Orchestra’s seasonal performance of Oliver Nelson’s jazz interpretation of Prokofiev’s Peter and the Wolf. He plays often in Nanaimo with John Lee and Andrew Janusson, and Pat Boyle has Genge give guest lectures to the UVic jazz studies program.

“I retired from teaching in 2016 after working parttime at St. FX for a couple of years,” Genge explains. “My folks have always lived here, and we have a family home on Hornby Island that I loved returning to every summer. After a sabbatical in 2004, my wife and daughters decided to stay in Victoria while I split my time between Nova Scotia and Victoria, and we bought our home in Oak Bay.” “My second daughter, Rebecca, who is 25 now and a professional classical singer, lives and works in Toronto. She sings throughout Europe and North America and sang in Pacific Opera’s recent productions of Jenufa and The Magic Flute. She got her start in the choir program at Oak Bay High, so life these days feels like the family has completed a circle. We’re really happy to be back in Oak Bay.”

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OAK BAY TRAVEL

ROCKY

MOUNTAIN ADVENTURE

Hiking in the Rockies to Skoki Lodge

By JOSEPH BLAKE Photos by LYNNE MILNES

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F

or the last decade, my wife and I have spent our summer vacations hiking into historic, alpine resorts in the Rocky Mountains. We’ve stayed and hiked in the wildflower meadows, mountains, and peaks around Assiniboine Lodge, Lake O’Hara Lodge, Shadow Lake Lodge, Cathedral Lake Lodge, and several times at our favourite — Skoki Lodge.

Most of the alpine lodges were established in the late 1920s and early 1930s by skiers establishing the sport in Canada and they’re still popular destinations for snow-

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Writer Joe Blake and family taking a break hiking in the Rockies.

shoeing and cross-country skiing. Skoki was Canada’s first commercial backcountry lodge and was rated the top winter hideaway in North America by National Geographic Adventure Magazine.

But for us, it’s the June to October summer season that draws us for hikes over two picturesque passes and into the secluded, rustic lodge in the woods. The hike into Skoki and out a trickier path with rip-rap cliff shuffle and rock-climb chimney squeeze is my favourite hike, and last summer we shared the adventure with our son Jesse’s Tofino family.

250 598 5252

104 - 2187 Oak Bay Avenue *All fares are in U.S. dollars, cruise-only, for new bookings only, per guest, double www.maritimetravel.ca occupancy, subject to availability, and valid only for residents of the Americas. Some Out of 1 888 987 2351 suite categories may not be available. Taxes, Fees Town & Port Expenses of $1,734 per

person are additional. Fares are not combinable with any other offer, may vary by BC Reg. 3636 *All in inU.S. guest, double *Allfares faresare are U.S. dollars,cruise-only, cruise-only,for fornew newbookings bookings only,per per guest,prior double sailing date, are dollars, capacity controlled, and are subject to only, change without notice. occupancy, subject to availability, and valid for residents ofof the Americas.

Some occupancy, availability, and valid for residents the Americas.

Some savings are included in only fares shown.

Certain restrictions apply. *All All fares aresubject in amounts U.S.todollars, cruise-only, foronly new bookings only, per guest,may double suite categories may not be available.

Taxes, Fees & &Port Expenses ofof$1,734 per suite categories may not be available.

Taxes, Fees Port Expenses $1,734 per to Information herein is accurate at time of printing.

Seabourn reserves the right occupancy, subject to availability, and valid only for residents of the Americas. Some person are Fares are combinable withSeabourn. any vary person areadditional. additional.

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Ships’ registry: Bahamas. ©2018 suite categories may not be available.

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Get the Beach Body You Want In The Time You Have

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Crossing a river on a day-hike from Skoki.

My wife, Lynne, and I have five grandchildren and we’re trying to share our passion for the outdoors with them so last SIMPLE EFFECTIVE PRIVATE Workouts Guided August, we took our surf-loving 10 and 12-year-old grandBy A Certified Trainer daughters Zoe and Kayla and their parents to the Rocky FREE 1 WEEK TRIAL! Mountains for the first time.

Despite its rustic charm, Skoki Lodge is a pretty elegant 250.370.9544 | 1821 Fort Street - Oak Bay alpine destination. Prince William and Duchess Kate spent oakbay@vibesfitness.ca part of their honeymoon here — and for good reason. At the end of a stunning, 14-kilometre trail that begins not far from one of the Lake Louise ski lifts, Skoki’s main lodge and three private cabins provide 22 beds for alpine hiking enthusiasts.

When you arrive in the afternoon after a five or six-hour hike, • • there’s a hearty high tea with fresh baking and fancy cheese waiting for you and all other means are provided.

• Adrienne’s Tea Garden • Paper Chain • Adrienne’s Ice Cream • Paletteable Pottery & Art Studio The girls carried a change of clothing, water bottles, and • A Stable Way of Life • Pure Day Spa toiletries in their backpacks and while they did a little com• Cordova Hair Boutique • Red Barn Market plaining for the first few minutes of steep trail at the begin• Country Gift Shoppe • Something More ning of the hike, by the time we were out of the trees and • The Gallery • Sunday’s Snowflakes into the first meadow of exploding Indian paintbrush, asters • Ladybug Candles & Gifts • Seaberry Garden & Flower • Lily Pad Lingerie • Tall Tree Integrated Health Centre and pulsatilla, they were happily leading our family up and • Liquor Plus • Toying Around over the first pass.

• Mattick’s Farm Mini Golf • Victoria Pilates Lynne and I had spotted grizzlies near the trail on earlier hikes, so we kept together and made plenty of noise as we 5325 Cordova Bay Rd. | Open every day | Free parking made our way past boulder-strewn landscapes and turquoise www.matticksfarm.com blue alpine lakes teeming with trout. Once, up where the Pantone Dark Blue C C: 100% R: 0 M: 93% G: 37 Y: 6% B: 154 K: 3%

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lodge van drops hikers off near the trailhead stables for their horses packing in provisions, a little grizzly sprinted across the dusty, unpaved road while on the hill up above us, another grizzly — as big as a garage — sat in the middle of a wildflower meadow, legs splayed wearing a summerdazed, goofy smile. At least, that’s what it looked like to me with a comfortable distance between us and a breeze blowing in my face. Grizzlies don’t see well, but their sense of smell is acute, and this grizzly couldn’t see or smell us.

Luckily, the girls didn’t see any grizzlies. They saw bear scat and trail horses carrying tourist cowgirls along the trail, and they went up the last vertical climb to the top of the 2,000+ meter Deception Pass without breaking a sweat and almost as fast as their marathon-running surfer mom. I was huffing and puffing, brining up the rear, and gasping for breath but it was worth it.

As you might imagine, the beautifully-restored log lodge is quite a comforting sight coming out of the stunted, highaltitude forest valley with its seemingly endless, twisting trail.

It feels like a miracle even on the second and third visit.

Skoki’s daily menu of hearty breakfast, bountiful lunch spread, elegant high tea, and sumptuous dinner is a highlight of the adventure for me. You can even pre-order wine with your dinner and with its cozy woodstove and camaraderie of international wilderness enthusiasts, the dining room is

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Blake’s granddaughters Kayla and Zoe hiking out.

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a warm and inviting hangout, as is the adjacent library/ living room with its fireplace and candlelight. Upstairs, a creaky, dimly-lit hallway leads to a series of bedrooms with single and bunk beds. The outhouse is a short, chilly walk behind the lodge.

We haven’t met many kids at Skoki, but our girls were comfortable at the long, communal table and feasted along with all the adults, albeit more selectively. There are always good stories and new friendships forged and many guests come back the same time every summer.

During our visits, it’s rained and snowed going over the pass in August. It’s been hot and windswept, too, but last summer it was warm and beautiful despite the bugs. Did I mention I hate horseflies? But our timing was perfect and the wildflowers were spectacular. The glacial-fed waters of Skoki Lakes and Hidden Lake were a distinctive blue and bracing. But the whole Tofino family went in for a quick dip and a roll in the icy snow afterwards. We all made it back to Boulder Pass and down to the stables in time to catch the lodge van back to the ski lift parking lot. My son wants to come back with his fly fishing rod and his wife, Nicki, wants to come back and see the wildflowers again.

Most importantly, Kayla and Zoe want to come back to Skoki Lodge for another adventurous hike in the Rockies, which is music to grandma and grandpa’s ears.

Wildflowers in full bloom in an alpine meadow.

Wills, Powers of Attorney, Real Estate Transfers & Refinances Notarial services in a friendly, professional and welcoming environment.

1839 Fort Street, Victoria

(across from the Jubilee Hospital)

250.590.2626 www.karengrahamnotary.ca SUMMER 2018

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DOGS ON THE AVENUE

LOVE MY DOG! Photos by Don Denton

Dogs [dawgs, dogs] 1. The best friend of men, women and children, bred in many sizes and shapes.

The Avenue [thuh av-uh-nyoo, -noo] 1. A popular destination for those seeking funky eateries, awesome art galleries and trendy stores in Oak Bay.

Some say, “This is the world’s best hummingbird feeder.”

New high perch for unobstructed bird viewing • Lifetime Guarantee • Easy to Clean • 4 oz, 8 oz, 12 oz and 16 oz Capacity • Bee and Wasp Resistant • Ant-Moat - Blocks Crawling Insects HIGH PERCH™ • Made in U.S.A.

We are a full-service, all-breeds dog and cat gooming salon. We welcome all drop in clients, from nail trims to face tidy’s and everything in between!

hummingbird

FEEDER

250-595-3595

3631 Shelbourne Plaza 42

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SUMMER 2018

105 - 2250 Oak Bay Ave. Victoria, BC • 250-590-0833 Private U-Bath room available www.muckymutt.com

Proudly Serving Oak Bay for 22 years Located in the heart of Oak Bay, A Pet’s Life specializes in providing natural and holistic pet foods, supplements and a wide range of quality pet toys and accessories.

At A Pet’s Life we pride ourselves on our ability to listen to our customer and provide the best advice, nutrition and products for their pets. In addition to our quality pet products, our store offers the longest running pet first aid program in Canada.

Walks’n’Wags Pet First Aid and Pet Safety Program provides pet owners with training and a wide range of pet first aid products to help keep your pet safe when an emergency arises.

This page, Soft Coated Wheaten Terriers Scout, 6, and Shiah, 8, at Willows Beach.

Come see us, and you’ll find The Best for your Pet!

Far page, clockwise from top left: Holly is a 10-year-old German Shepherd, Kona is an 18-month-old poodle, running on Cadboro Bay Beach (submitted), Zak is a 10-year-old Australian Labradoodle and Watson is a five-year-old Miniature Schnauzer.

250.592.3301 www.apetslife.ca 2019 Cadboro Bay Rd. V8R 5G4

Wellness for the urban pet

new

owners

There is a lot of NEW at Cadboro Bay Vet Clinic.

Owner, Vet, Staff, State of the Art: Xray, Dental and Bloodwork Machines.

Dr. Dand, Dr. McTavish, and our caring staff would love to meet you and discuss the services they have brought to the community that can help you with your pets’ needs.

New Clients Welcome Clinic Monday to Friday: 8:30am - 6:00pm Hours: Saturday: 9:00am - 5:00pm | Sunday: Closed

2561 Sinclair Road 250-477-9061 www.cadbayvet.ca

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Photo by Sharon Stoose-Johannknecht

Parting Shot:

W

STUNNING SUNRISE

atching the sunrise in Oak Bay over the water is always a beautiful sight.

Jet-lagged and unable to sleep, Sharon walked down to Turkey Head Walkway and was rewarded with this stunning shot.

Parting Shot welcomes high-resolution photo

Serving Oak Bay for over 30 Years PROVIDING COMPREHENSIVE PHYSIOTHERAPY Services include • Spinal manual therapy/ manipulation • Intramuscular Stimulation (IMS) • Individualized exercise prescription • Vestibular Therapy • Myofascial Release

Lisa, Ian, Terri, Jaymie, Gerry, Marita

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Come on down for a visit with our friendly farm animals. Hang out with our beloved goats in the petting area and be sure to catch our famous goat stampede!

OPEN DAILY 10am - 5pm GOAT STAMPEDES 10:10am & 5:10pm

Physiotherapy

44

Beacon Hill Children’s Farm

250.381.2532

FOUL BAY

220 -1964 Fort St.

submissions of places, people and things in Oak Bay. Want to give us your best shot? Send submission to Tweed editor Tess van Straaten at tweededitor@gmail.com and be sure to include a little bit about the photo, including when and where you took it.

250-595-2244

SUMMER 2018

foulbayphysio.com

BEACON HILL PARK Funded By Your Donations

MEET OUR ADVERTISERS MARC OWEN-FLOOD PREC – Marc is a long-time Oak Bay resident and an award winning realtor.

As an Oak Bay specialist Marc enjoys sharing his knowledge and expertise with each new client who chooses to make Oak Bay their home.

See ad on pages 9.

MARITIME TRAVEL

is a full service locally owned travel agency – serving the community since 1986. Our experienced team would be delighted to assist with all of your travel needs. See our ad on page 37.

OAK BAY VOLUNTEER SERVICES

We provide one-to-one direct volunteer support to individuals of all ages in Oak Bay. Drives, visits, repairs, etc. See ad on page 30.

OAK BAY HEARING CLINIC With her doctorate in audiology & 17 years’ experience, Dr. Wright is well suited to improve your hearing, even in the most difficult listening situations. See ad on page 12.

MILES TAKACS has called

Victoria & Oak Bay home for more than 40 years. Extensive local knowledge & straight forward advice. Community volunteer via Rotary, Kidsport Victoria, Carnarvon Athletic Club.

See ad on page 30.

CARLTON HOUSE OF OAK BAY satisfies expectations

for an attractive, well-maintained & secure retirement residence, while fostering a supportive community of enjoyment, camaraderie & pride.

See ad on page 27.

Don Wuest, owner at WILD BIRDS UNLIMITED, wants you to have the best bird feeding experience possible. After all, it’s the most relaxing, fulfilling, educational & exciting hobby that everyone can enjoy. See our ad on page 42.

OAK BAY SEAFOOD

Gregg and Anne Best bring 40 years of experience in the fishing and seafood industry to Oak Bay Seafood.

They are very pleased with the warm welcome and support they have received at their new fish store on the Avenue. See ad on page 4.

Bay. For more than 25 years she’s successfully matched people and properties. Her commitment to friendly, personalized service has earned her the Lifetime Award of Excellence.

See ad on page 35.

KAREN JENSEN As a full-time, dedicated professional with nearly 3 decades of experience, I’m pleased to work with buyers and sellers alike. I hold the Re/Max Lifetime Achievement award. Please contact me for a complimentary evaluation of your property. See ad on page 39.

JULIE RUST

SMILES BY DESIGN

PEPPER’S FOODS,

GRIFFIN RESTORATION

OCEAN RIVER ADVENTURES

Canadian-owned and operated company offering property restoration, 24/7 emergency service and free hazardous material inspection.

See ad on page 29.

Brian Henry, owner of Oak Bay Paddle Shack, an Ocean River Outpost. Kayak and Stand UP rentals, tours and courses from our convenient locations.

“Getting you out there.”

See ad on page 39.

IMAX

ENGEL & VÖLKERS

Celebrating 50 years in the community!

See ad on page 48.

JASON BINAB Understands

people and Real Estate. He enjoys working with his wife Amber at the Binab Group. Together they have two sons, Benson and Jamison and one dog Lily. Jason has lived in Oak Bay for over 25 years and specializes in Oak Bay. See ad on page 11.

ABSTRACT

Abstract Developments is Victoria’s foremost, local and award-winning developer. Abstract is committed to building innovative, quality homes and community minded iconic spaces.

See ad on page 5.

HEATWAVE PLUMBING & HEATING LTD Providing Victoria

with the highest quality of plumbing, heating and gas installations since 1996. See ad on page 13.

is a realtor at Newport Realty, born and raised in Victoria, and specializes in the Oak Bay, Victoria, Saanich Real Estate Market. If you are considering buying or selling, contact her for competent and trusted real estate service. See ad on page 8.

The largest theatre screen in BC combined with crystal clear images in IMAX Laser and wraparound digital surround sound, provide an incredibly immersive cinematic experience. See ad on page 18.

Geoffrey Beattie, has owned

BARCLAY’S FINE CUSTOM JEWELLERS for the past 15 years.

BARCLAYS carries a range of exclusive & fine pieces of beautiful jewellery as well as specializing in both creating custom pieces & re-designs.

See ad on page 11.

GEOFF FIELD & MIKE FOWLES have over 75 years

of combined experience in Real Estate Sales. Born and raised in Victoria and living in Oak Bay. See ad on page 4.

1950 B Oak Bay Ave. 250-361-9243 www.heatwave.me Visit Our Showroom | High Efficiency Natural Gas Fireplaces

1950 B Oak Bay Ave. 250-361-9243 www.heatwave.me Visit Our Showroom | High Efficiency Natural Gas Fireplaces

NEWPORT REALTY

Proudly serving the Oak Bay community for 40 years.

See ad on pages 8, 46, 47.

FOUL BAY PHYSIOTHERAPY has been serving Oak Bay for over 25 years. The team includes Ian Catchpole & Gerry Illmayer with over 35 years combined experience, joined by Lisa, Terri, Jaymie & Marita.

See ad on page 44.

BRENDA RUSSELL, ROYAL LE PAGE Raised in Oak

Dr. Michael is passionate about giving people healthy, beautiful smiles with the use of innovative techniques and the latest technology and training.

See ad on page 41.

Engel & Völkers, a global company and lifestyle brand providing high quality services for those seeking to buy and sell real estate properties.

See ad on page 2.

THE AVENUE GALLERY

A premiere boutique gallery in Victoria, The Avenue Gallery has been showcasing contemporary Canadian paintings, sculpture, ceramics, glass, and jewellery since 2002.

See ads on page 13.

TULIPE NOIRE Kari McLay, owner

of Tulipe Noire Clothing is proud to provide quality lifestyle apparel for women of all ages. Step inside and find premium denim, luscious cashmere, designer tees, classic dresses for day or evening … casual elegance for all occasions. See ad on page 17.

NAI COMMERCIAL (VICTORIA) INC.

Offering full service commercial real estate service, worldwide.

See ad on page 34.

SUMMER 2018

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Proudly Serving the Oak Bay Community for 40 Years

Newport Realty has been chosen by Christie’s International Real Estate to be their Exclusive Western Canada Representative Christie’s International Real Estate has affiliate offices in 46 countries with a combined annual sales volume of over $115 billion. It is a unique international perspective on the worlds of art and luxury. They are the leading global authority in the marketing of distinctive properties.

We Sell Special Homes in Oak Bay… Yours.

Our new office is between The Oak Bay Village And Downtown, at 1144 Fort Street “We’re on your way home”

The Art of Real Estate info@newportrealty.com ~ www.newportrealty.com 250-385-2033

Thank You

from over 70 Professionals of Newport Realty

Warm Summer Nights Cool ocean breezes, is there anything better than summer in Victoria? Let Pepper’s provide your outdoor dining this summer with an array of farm fresh Saanich vegetables, fish from local waters and a large selection of Island made breads, crackers & cheeses. Everything you need for a summer evening with friends.

Pepper’s Foods, Taste the Difference Local Makes.

Same Day Home Delivery!

250-477-6513 Mon-Fri Excluding Holidays

250-477-6513 • 3829 Cadboro Bay Road

/PeppersFoods @PeppersFoods