December 3, 2020

TWEED OAK BAY LIVING

WINTER 2020/21

Heart & HAND

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TWEED Winter 2020/21

Volume 8 | Issue 4

INSIDE 10 Green House Rising Oak Bay’s first certified passive home

DEPARTMENTS

8 16 20 26 32 33 38 44

Gifts to Warm the Heart

Tea With

Meet Avery Brohman

Fashion

Capturing the Conceptual

TELL TWEED!

Heart & Hand

Tweed Magazine would love to hear from you!

Email story ideas to Susan Lundy lundys@shaw.ca

10

A Time to Give

Philanthropic Pursuits in Oak Bay

Oak Bay Insider Fit for a King

History Ed Hicks

Travel

Destination Wellness

Adopt a Pet!

From Victoria Humane Society

ON THE COVER: Kande Whitehouse at Craigdarroch Castle.

Photo by Lia Crowe

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26 We provide Free Services to Those in Need Delivered by Caring Volunteers

• • • • •

Drives to Appointments Friendly Social Phone Calls Grocery Shopping & Delivery Walks in the Community Virtual Visits

(250) 595-1034

info@oakbayvolunteers.org www.oakbayvolunteers.org

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Contact us if you or your loved ones need support.

Be a part of our community.

Come volunteer with us!

EDITOR'S LETTER

Puppy parade

Publisher and advertising inquiries Janet Gairdner publisher@oakbaynews.com 250-480-3251 Group Publisher Penny Sakamoto

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Advertising Janet Gairdner Kim Barber 250-480-3234 kim.barber@oakbaynews.com Photo Supervisor Lia Crowe Editor Susan Lundy lundys@shaw.ca

WINTER 2020/21

PHOTO BY LIA CROWE

Y

ears ago, around the time my younger daughter started Grade 1, a subtle, unconscious pining crept over me. I found my eyes lingering a little longer than usual on parents holding babies . . . and then I’d give my head a good shake and move on. But I was in this tender state of mind when a local dog breeder brought her latest batch of toddling German shepherd pups into my office.

And when a black pup was placed in my arms, now just a few weeks before Christmas, I said, “Yes, yes, of course. Absolutely.”

Beloved by our family’s human folk, Magic was greeted with less enthusiasm by our older dog, Dexter; and her arrival added a chunk of chaos to our holiday season. Suddenly—after waiting years and years post-babies to once again sleep eight hours at a time—our nights were broken up by frantic house-training trips outside and little puppy whimpers that said, “Please let me sleep right beside you on your comfy bed.”

Dogs have wandered into my life at various times over the decades. Dexter, a chocolate lab and German pointer cross, came with a gangly-leg totter down the driveway of my early20s house. I said to my partner, Oh, please!?

Both my daughters’ first word was “Dexter (Dec-ter).” He lived for 14 years.

Magic died tragically at age three around the same time my first husband and I separated. So I was a single mom with eight- and 10-year-old daughters when Austen—a six-monthold boxer and wire-haired pointer cross—wandered into our lives. Austen, who was living in a van with a French vagabond and a puppy sibling, was offered to us on the roadside—“$25 right now… or the price goes up!” Oh, please!? begged the girls. We picked him up later that day and the girls, who (luckily!) were enrolled in French Immersion, immediately set about teaching him English.

Austen lived for 15 years, until 2018, but half way through his life, another dog waddled in. Rollie-the-Dachshund came as a package deal with my new husband. He was small, but feisty. He ruled the roost. Sadly, we had him put down last January. He was 17.

So, now dog-less for the first time in decades, that familiar

tender state has re-emerged. When the COVID-19 lockdown hit in the spring, we joined hordes of other pet-seekers stalking the BCSPCA and Victoria Humane Society sites—to no avail. The fit wasn’t there. But we agreed that we’d look for a rescue dog (eventually two), and that when the time was right, once again, he or she would wander into our lives.

It turns out it was my fingers that did the wandering. Scrolling through Instagram, I clicked onto the Homeless Pets Canada page and realized that not only is the charity based nearby in Vancouver, but I know some of its volunteers. And it rescues strays from Chile.

Click, click and more clicking. And there he was! The cutest little guy, 10 months old, and just calling out for a new home. Adoption forms filled, fee paid and name changed. (His given name matched an old boyfriend’s name—that would be weird.) And now we await his arrival on December 20: just in time to add a little holiday chaos!

The theme of this issue of Tweed is Heart & Hand, or loving and giving. You’ll find stories of philanthropy and community spirit … not to mention a few pets in need of adoption.

We wish you all a joyous season. May you give freely, let your hearts be filled with love and your thoughts be awash in puppies.

Susan Lundy has been writing stories since she was six years old.

She has a degree in creative writing from UVic, and after working for many years as an award-winning journalist, is now a magazine editor, author and freelance writer. Watch for her new book, Home on the Strange, out this spring via Heritage House Publishing.

Associate Editor Lia Crowe Creative Director Lily Chan Creative Services Michelle Gjerde Distribution Laura Cross 250-480-3277

oakbaynews.com | 250-598-4123

104B-3550 Saanich Road, Victoria, BC VBX 1X2

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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9

OAK BAY HOME

Greenhouse RISING

Oak Bay’s only certified passive house is as beautiful as it is energy-efficient

By Angela Cowan Photos by Sama Canzian 10

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OAK BAY HOME

❝ It’s definitely a modern design amid traditional, but the denizens of Oak Bay have embraced it with gusto.

❞

W

ith its midnight-blue cedar siding weathering beautifully, Oak Bay’s first and (thus far) only certified passive house has settled nicely into the streetscape on Byng Street since it was built three years ago.

“There’s that stigma from earlier years that passive houses are just boxes, with windows you can’t open. Although that boxy geometry is advantageous for energy efficiency, it doesn’t have to prevent architecture,” says homeowner Peter Johannknecht, who is also principal architect and co-owner of Cascadia Architects.

Indeed, the front façade is impressive, with its complex roofline and inset garage entrance, and the blend of dark siding with white stucco.

It stands out among the many cottage-style homes along the street, and is grounded by the surrounding mature Garry oaks and native landscaping.

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It’s definitely a modern design amid traditional, but the denizens of Oak Bay have embraced it with gusto: recently, Peter’s home received the municipality’s Allan Cassidy Award, which recognizes notable new buildings and renovations that help enhance a streetscape or neighbourhood.

And it’s not the only attention the home is getting; Passive House Canada is using images of the house in its promotional material, showing that ecologically sound can also be beautiful.

Inside, the design is just as striking. Triple-paned Austrian windows are set throughout the home, allowing in an enormous amount of natural light while retaining the tight insulation that is so important to passive house buildings. Bright whites and smooth surfaces contribute to the calming, clean feel of the interior, with touches of warmth found in the natural walnut on the kitchen counter, the office inset and the hand rail leading upstairs.

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It received Allan Cassidy Award, which recognizes xxxxxxx notable buildings ... that help enhance a neighbourhood.

❞

THE

❝

AVENUE

GALLERY

AVENUE ALL THAT GLITTERS VIII THE

One of the most beautiful and unusual features is the open fireplace in the living room that, when turned off, is no more than an unassuming strip of metal. But switch it on, and a live flame dances in the open against a Corten steel backdrop, reflecting deep orange and bringing an undeniable cosiness to the living room.

As well as incorporating clean lines and an attractive mid-century style, Peter designed the home with the end goal of having it certified, which involved collecting documents and photos of all the materials and stages of construction to send to an independent third-party certifier.

“If you complete a passive house project as the designer or architect, that in itself qualifies you to get the accreditation to become a certified passive house designer,” adds Peter. “It was important to me to have that accreditation. Right at the beginning, I was convinced it should be and must be certified.”

He brought in NZ Builders, known for their commitment to high performance construction, who took on the challenge with enthusiasm.

Passive house construction drastically reduces the energy

GALLERY

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“One of my cousins, an uncle, an old family friend, my neighbour— were all in hospice recently. I’m incredibly thankful that this important and necessary service was there for them in their final days.

I started thinking, ‘What if we had no such service?’ That’s why, in addition to my annual donations, I have become a legacy donor.”

— Dennie Rothschild

Each day at Victoria Hospice, patients and families receive compassionate care made possible by people just like you who took the simple, yet extraordinary, step of including Victoria Hospice in their will.

Legacy gifts are an important part of Victoria Hospice’s operational funding and enable us to: give the best possible 24-hour care, support, and pain and symptom management to patients nearing the end of life, be it at home, in the

community, or at our Inpatient Unit; Offer bereavement support and counselling, online or in-person; conduct palliative care research to ensure quality patient care; and provide education for healthcare professionals and the community.

To explore simple ways you can leave a legacy of compassionate care, call Shelley at 250-519-1743 or visit www.victoriahospice.org/gifts-in-your-will

1 2020/21 14 VH-Tweed-GivingAd202011.indd TWEED WINTER

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consumption and footprint of a house through a few different approaches: the entire house—including the foundation—is wrapped in insulation; triple-paned (opening) windows are used to mitigate heat loss; a heat recovery ventilation (HRV) system acts as the “lungs of the house,” providing a constant intake of fresh air; and an air-tight membrane surrounds the house. That last is measured using a blower door test, which tells you how many air exchanges (ACH) occur in the entire house in the space of an hour. For a certified rating, that number must be 0.60 or lower.

“We’ve seen homes around Victoria with an ACH of 12 and above, and have read articles of homes across Canada built prior to 1980 with an ACH of 30 to 40, which is pretty mindblowing. For the homes we’ve seen, it means you could be either heating or cooling the entire volume of air in your home at least 12 times every hour,” says David Phillips of NZ Builders. “With Peter’s house, we managed to achieve the North American record at the time, which was 0.18 ACH, so you can see how drastically different that is for energy consumption.”

The entire build is characterized by an extremely high level of quality, but it’s also the air-tightness that is one of the major influencers of the building’s longevity.

When there are air spaces and leakages through the home, it creates space for dew to form, or moisture to leak in, leading to rot and mould.

“You build these [passive] homes, and they work. They last, and they’re low maintenance. [Peter’s] going to be able to give this house to his grandkids if he wants,” says David.

That quality and longevity is even better with the house situated in a community that Peter and his family love. He and his wife, Sharon Stoose-Johannknecht, had actually lived on the same street for 10 years prior to building their passive home.

That house—built in 1906— was beautiful, but definitely had its challenges with heating and energy usage.

“That experience was part of the reason we wanted to build something for the 21st century,” says Peter. “This was definitely the right decision for us.” And being able to stay in Oak Bay was a big motivator.

“It’s a beautiful part of the island. It’s very close to all the amenities of Greater Victoria and the coast line. We just really love the different beaches and bays. And it was a wonderful community to raise our kids,” he says. “We moved to the island for good reason!”

Good food Good people Good times

❝

With Peter’s house we managed to achieve the North American record at the time.

❞

cakesetc.ca 250-360-2390 2821 Quesnel Street Victoria, BC WINTER 2020/21

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TEA with Avery Brohman CLAIM TO FAME (AND, SHE SAYS, GREATEST PRIVILEGE): Executive Director of the Victoria Hospitals Foundation

By Susan Lundy Photos by Lia Crowe

778.265.5045 619 Broughton Street, Victoria Follow Us@victoriaoliveco

Nice to meet you, Avery. Where were you born and where did you grow up?

I was born and raised in Guelph, Ontario, where I spent 20 years before moving to Toronto to pursue a career in public relations and philanthropy.

How did you get to Oak Bay? I found Oak Bay from Toronto via Whitehorse, if you can believe it! I spent two-and-a-half years in the Great White North before finally landing on Vancouver Island to join an organization now so dear to my heart: the Victoria Hospitals Foundation. After renting for a few years in the Rockland and Fernwood areas, we found the perfect house in Oak Bay last November: a place to call home in this community we love to call ours.

How did your career path lead you to the role of executive director for the Victoria Hospitals Foundation?

I feel immense gratitude and great privilege to have made fundraising a passion so early on in my career. It has been an honour to grow in this profession; from fundraising for Big Brothers Big Sisters, to supporting the development of provincial non-profits like the John Howard Society of Ontario, and finally working for national organizations such as the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation and Ovarian Cancer Canada.

The time I spent in the Yukon found me travelling the northern territories for Shaw Communications, where I spearheaded sales and promoted corporate social responsibility efforts. Each role has been unique and excellent preparation for what would come next. I am proud of

We’re going through a shared experience.

But it’s also isolating.

Remember, you aren’t alone.

Your healthcare providers, friends and family are here for you. This is an unforgetable moment in history, but it won’t be forever. We’ll look back and we’ll be proud of what we sacrificed and that we were brave.

—Dr. Bri Budlovsky Oak Bay Resident, Emergency Physician

Please give generously to our hospitals.

When you give, you support the 6,500+ hospital heroes at Royal Jubilee, Victoria General and Gorge Road hospitals. Forty percent of the equipment our hospital heroes rely on is funded by donors. Learn how you can help today.

victoriahf.ca/donate vhf@viha.ca

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❝

Hospital philanthropy became personal when Ixxxxxxx suddenly lost my father in a hospital setting...I truly love what I do—it fuels my fire to inspire giving, and to give back myself.

❝ Warmth is a place called Glerups

637 Fort Street 637 Fort Street 250.383.4040 250.383.4040 footlooseshoes.com footlooseshoes.com footlooseshoes.com

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the career path I have taken, which now leads me here, with one of the Island’s largest and most impactful charities.

Hospital philanthropy became personal when I suddenly lost my father in a hospital setting. Being able to foster giving in his honour, and in honour of the dedicated care teams and everyday heroes behind the masks, became a priority, and a necessity. I truly love what I do—it fuels my fire to inspire giving, and to give back myself.

What does the Victoria Hospitals Foundation do?

As a team, we inspire community giving to transform healthcare in our local hospitals. Many people are not aware that 40 per cent of the equipment our care teams use at Royal Jubilee and Victoria General hospitals exist because of the generosity of our donors. As Island Health’s charitable partner, we raise donations for medical equipment, special projects, education and research.

Annually, the foundation stewards millions of dollars for our hospitals, and last year we purchased over 100 pieces of priority equipment. Our close partnership with Island Health ensures every gift is directed to where it is needed most to support the 850,000 residents who live and access care here on Vancouver Island. It’s vital for everyone’s health that our hospitals have the best and brightest tools and technology, and we are grateful to those who help make our centres as excellent as they can be.

What challenges/rewards does the foundation face?

I feel our biggest challenge is differentiating ourselves and conveying why we still need our community to give when access to our hospitals is, in simplified terms, free. All hospital foundations face this universal dilemma in our country. The simple answer? If we relied on government alone, we would be waiting much longer for the latest and greatest tools, equipment and research.

A community united for healthcare can do so much. Our team understands the profound privilege we have as prudent stewards to our donors. Experiencing first-hand how transformative and life-saving one single gift can be is not something everyone experiences, and we have the great honour to witness these everyday miracles. The relationships we have with our donors are never taken for granted; they are a treasure to us all.

How do you inspire philanthropy?

I inspire by teaching. When individuals understand the impact they can make, it makes a world of difference. At the foundation, transparency is a large component of every initiative we undertake. We pride ourselves on creativity and knowing our community, so we offer experiences, events and exclusive opportunities to our donors.

Our partnership with Island Health strengthens our work.

We collaborate often, and at any given time, physicians, nurses, care team members, educators and researchers, to name a few,

are willing to share authentic stories with our community and give us personal access into an environment many of us know little about. They always go the extra mile, whether at the bedside or to share our message with those in our community.

What brings you joy?

I am most fulfilled when the people I care most about are happy. I smile when my grandmother starts singing when she cooks. I laugh instantly when my dog Grace starts smiling.

And, when my colleagues and I are celebrating a recent success…well, that’s hard to beat.

Anything else you’d like us to know?

I’d like to say thank you! Our foundation continues to be inspired by the generosity and support for our hospitals’ front lines during the COVID-19 pandemic. We recently launched our largest campaign in over a decade, It’s Critical, to expand critical care capacity at Royal Jubilee Hospital and give Vancouver Island our first permanent High Acuity Unit which will treat critical care patients, including those with severe COVID-19 symptoms. To learn more, I invite you to visit victoriahf.ca/critical. And while we cannot meet in person at this time, my colleagues and I are always delighted to have virtual coffee meet-ups with our donors—past, present and prospective. I look forward to getting to know one another. avery.brohman@viha.ca or 250-519-1750.

523 Fisgard Street 250-590-6637 @moeshomevic www.moeshome.ca

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OAK BAY FASHION

Capturing the Conceptual Wearable structure fit for a queen Styling and makeup by Jen Clark Photos by Lia Crowe

Kande Whitehouse, of Kande’s Global Hair Couturiere in Oak Bay, presents stunning holiday fashion, certain to get you through the winter season in fine style. Born in Chad and raised on two continents in a large, multicultural family, Kande has always had an eye for style.

She fell in love with styling hair at a young age, but says—most of all—she loves those moments of transformation that happen everyday in the salon.

“People walk out feeling great about themselves and it brings me endless satisfaction to be a part of that process.”

Wool coat by Crea Concept ($975), silk shaded stripe dress ($259) and black leather Morgan belt ($79), both by InWear, studded leather purse by Laurel ($545), all from Hughes Clothing.

Red Louise dress by ELIZA FAULKNER ($285) from Tulip Noir; solid bronze ”True Heart”necklace by Love Medals ($198), from lovemedals.com.

Boots, model’s own.

Model: Oak Bay resident Nancy Douglas

“Luskentyre” jacket ($595) and vest ($229)

by Harris Tweed, “Hunter” jeans

by Hattric ($139), all from W&J Wilson.

Silk shaded striped dress by InWear ($259) from Hughes Clothing; gold clutch by Rodo ($29) from Turnabout.

Boots, model’s own.

Raincoat in dark indigo by ILSE JACOBSEN ($350) from Hughes Clothing.

Photographed on location at Craigdarroch Castle

A time to give Philanthropic pursuits in Oak Bay aid well-being of community and self

By SEAN MCINTYRE

❝ Philanthropy means working from the goodness of one’s heart to promote the well-being of others; it is the ability to reach out to those in need, listen and learn about their lives and grow together as one community.

❞

H

azel Braithwaite recalls how she and her six siblings weren’t very well off when they were growing up, and yet that didn’t stop her parents from instilling in her the virtues of giving.

And, like so many others in Oak Bay, the city councillor has embraced a lifelong devotion to philanthropy.

Hazel speaks of a time when, while she was still an elementary school student, her carpenter father was out of work and times were especially tough. Despite the family’s financial woes, Hazel’s parents made a point of volunteering time to her school’s weekly afternoon activity sessions by volunteering to teach kids how to build wooden planters, as well as the basics of knitting.

“They didn’t have money to give, but gave so unselfishly of their time,” she says. “That has stayed with me my whole life and has helped to shape who I am today.”

That early exposure to compassion instilled in Hazel the notions of integrity, honesty, kindness, trust, community service and good humour that have characterized her approach to life and fuelled her philanthropic drive ever since. Some of the causes she supports include serving meals at Our Place, helping out at the Canada Day barbecue and contributing to BC Children’s Hospital, Canadian Cancer Society, Operation Trackshoes and many other entities. She is also actively engaged with the Kiwanis Pavilion, where she helps people with Alzheimer’s disease and dementia, as well as the Sovereign Order of St. John, a charity that supports low-income individuals with healthcare needs. Along with the high

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profile events and causes, Hazel says, she reaps immense pleasure from giving anonymously through countless acts that go unseen but not unfelt.

“I’m most passionate about however I can help my community, and how I can persuade others to help too,” Hazel says. “Whether it’s a social issue that I am involved with, raising money for a park, working with a grieving family or whatever charity that I am raising Roxanne Taggart funds for—getting people I know in my community to work together and with others, to deal with that need or improvement or charitable acts is what really resonates with me.”

Instilling the merits of giving in the young is among the reasons Roxanne Taggart, a teacher and head of career education at Oak Bay High School, leads a national program called the Youth and Philanthropy Initiative (YPI) to students at the school. Every year, the Oak Bay High’s Grade 11 students are tasked with researching and selecting a non-profit organization to champion in front of their teachers and peers.

Following a series of projects and presentations, the winning group nets $5,000 for its selected charity. The funding boost is much appreciated, but the program is about so much more than prize money alone. Roxanne says the program takes kids outside of the classroom to immerse themselves in the workings of their chosen organization.

“YPI allows students to get out of the classroom and gain a greater awareness and understanding of the social issues in their local community as well as an opportunity to give back and make a positive difference in the lives of others,” she says Homelessness and addiction support groups, veteran associations and healthcare causes have all earned recognition from the program, and there’s no telling how many more institutions will benefit in years to come as the program’s young participants enter adulthood.

The YPI movement is active in schools across Canada, resulting in

❝

I’m most passionate about however I can help my community, and how I can persuade others to help too,

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hundreds of thousands of dollars of funding to non-profits across the country since it was established by the Toskan Casale Foundation in 2002.

YPI International has expanded that reach to the United States and United Kingdom, combining for nearly $17 million in assistance to non-profits across all sectors.

Returning closer to home, Hazel Braithwaite Trent Frenkel became involved with the Oak Bay Firefighters’ Charitable Foundation as a way to interact with members of his community on a deeper, more meaningful level.

“It allows me to get to know individuals, their backgrounds and their stories and piece together the overall diversity that is within our municipality and neighbouring ones,” he says.

The Oak Bay Firefighters’ Charitable Foundation comprises active members of the department and retirees who are still able to participate in regular events. Funding raised through this registered charity is directed annually to groups and organizations that align with the organization’s mission and values, including education and schools, health and wellness groups as well as poverty alleviation and social programs.

As the cost of living in Oak Bay and Victoria increases, a cause that is of special importance for Trent is the Oak Bay High bursary, a program that alleviates a small amount of financial burden that comes with the everyday expenses of post-secondary schooling.

“We want to contribute to the lives of young adults because we believe this is a time of learning and growth and the focus shouldn’t be on financial hardships,” he adds.

Trent says philanthropy means working from the goodness of one’s heart to promote the well-being of others.

He sums it up as the ability to reach out to those in need, listen and learn about their lives and grow together as one community. Over his years with the Oak Bay Firefighters’ Charitable Foundation, he’s found that giving back has as many benefits for himself as it does for the wider community.

“I truly believe it is the foundation of a good mind,” he says. “To know that there is always someone who can benefit from support, whether it be emotional or financial, and to be the person or organization to aid in achieving this gives an overwhelming sense of compassion and respect for our friends and neighbours.”

Julie Rust

Personal Real Estate Corporation®

Office: 250.385.2033 julie@julierust.ca

We Sell Special Homes in Oak Bay… Yours.

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• Pure Day Spa • Red Barn Market • Seaberry Garden & Flower • Something More • Sunday’s Snowflakes • The Country Gift Shoppe • The Gallery at Mattick’s

https://matticksfarm.com/ WINTER 2020/21

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H oliday WISH LIST

IDE AS TO MAKE YOUR HOL IDAY SPARKL E

IMAX ANNUAL PASS – YOUR TICKET TO TRAVEL THE WORLD IMAX Victoria in the Royal BC Museum is one of the first theatres in the world to install the IMAX 4K Laser System. It projects the brightest, boldest picture in the world and the sound is so good, it’s almost indescribable. Get your gifts at an incredibly low price - just $52.38 ($55 inc GST). See all the traditional films you want, as many times as you want. It even includes 3D! Available online at imaxvictoria. com or at the Box Office.

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GIVE THE GIFT OF PLAY. Whether and child or adult, Oak Bay Recreation has gift cards for your loved ones. Give them the gift to enjoy a new program or work-out!

Call reception at 250-595-7946 to purchase a gift card today.

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From luxury bags to designer fashion, A La Mode Consignment excels at upscale resale for women. As stockists for many Canadian female owned companies, we also carry new jewelry, hair accessories, face masks and bath products.

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ANZIE BESPOKE MEDALLION made in Montreal. 14K brushed yellow gold with 1.08 carats of surrounding diamonds. This pendant is the ideal keepsake to cherish for years to come! Easily customizable by engraving the front with the initials of loved ones or a special word. $13,400 including a 27” link chain.

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PURELY NATURAL, LOCATION INSPIRED PERFUMES Just north of Victoria, in Cowichan Bay, Wild Coast Perfumery creates perfumes blended from essential oils, absolutes and tinctures. Botanical perfumes that adapt to your body’s individual chemistry making them quite uniquely your own. There is nothing quite as beautiful as a truly natural perfume.

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FEEL JOYOUS THIS CHRISTMAS Our bricks and mortar local business will give you that warm feeling like you’re in a small town where everyone says hello.

SHOP LOCAL FOR THE HOLIDAYS! Side Street Studio is proud to offer Handcrafted Gifts by Local B.C. Artists: Jewelry, Glass Art, Pottery, Woodworking, Textiles, Photography, Small Works, Metalwork, Natural Soaps, Bath Salts, Candles, Organic Honey, Organic Teas, Holiday Cards, Ornaments, and much more.

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OAK BAY INSIDER

Fit for a KING

Loving and giving at King George Terrace

A 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 (Wind Cries Mary) and Rattenbury’s (Old Spaghetti Factory) and is a classically trained hotelier. A member of Harbourside Rotary for 36 years, he flies different flags at his house every day. ec595@hotmail.com

lot of love has been expended in the past years at King George Terrace and that love is continuing.

In the late ‘80s, Alan and Joan Potter lived on Barkley Terrace and their daily walks included the beautiful views from the lookout on King George Terrace. The viewing area itself, however, was in terrible condition, unappealing and desperately in need of love and attention.

Alan was a member of Victoria Harbourside Rotary and the club was looking for a “handson project.” The municipality was approached, designs were drawn up, some funding was sought from the province, Harbourside Rotary linked with Oak Bay Rotary… and a project was born. Much of the construction was done

by Rotarians, overseen by engineers and construction managers who were club members.

On February 8, 1990, Mayor Susan Brice unveiled a marker which still stands as one of the most interesting in the municipality. It identifies numerous points of interest, and includes distances in both kilometres and miles—the latter being for the benefit of visitors!

People love the trivia at the site, including the fact that from the lookout, Port Angeles is only 4.5 miles further away than the Sooke Hills.

Since then, the lookout has been a silent witness to many changes, controversies and acts of kindness. When Alan and Joan passed away, their Rotary friends dedicated a water fountain on the east side, located in almost the exact spot that a car once failed to make the bend and landed on the grounds of the neighbour!

Located at 200 and 230 King George Terrace, the lookout’s neighbours are two of the finest examples of Art Deco architecture in the community and were part of a highly controversial public hearing; they ultimately avoided demolition, but a subdivision was allowed behind them.

Other cairns have been added. One celebrates the Trial Island Lighthouse which, in

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2017, was recognized under the Lighthouse Protection Act. The lighthouse has the same birthday as the municipality, 1906. Another marker, which was the initiative of Marion Cummings and Oak Bay Heritage, celebrates the Lekwungen history in the surrounding area. It mentions that on McNeill Bay there used to be a village called Chikawich, which translates as “big hips” (!), and that the settlement moved from McNeill Bay to Gonzales Bay, and finally to Cadboro Bay. From the lookout, you can view Trafalgar Park, and in the past five years this 1.4-hectare park has been transformed by children—yes, children! Twice a week, students from Margaret Jenkins, under the leadership and tutelage of Margaret Lidkea and Matt Fairbarns, have removed invasive gorse, Scotch broom and Himalayan blackberry from the park. (Two other schools, Willows and Monterey, are also helping out by removing, with a similar program, invasive species from Uplands and Anderson Hill parks.) Now at Trafalgar, it is much easier to walk to Harling Point and the Chinese Cemetery, and for the hardy soul to swim in the community’s warmest water.

And if all these gifts to one lookout and one park are not enough, there is another stunning gift coming. Local sculptor Linda Lindsay has produced a wonderful piece called the Winds of Time, which shows a woman rising from the Salish Sea. It will be installed at the lookout, thanks to a very generous gift by an anonymous donor. I was lucky enough to see this sculpture when it was being crafted at Linda’s studio and it is perfect for the location. As Linda says, “It combines the elements of wind and time. With the woman’s knowing smile it seems to say she has seen it all and knows what is to come!”

The viewing terrace at King George Terrace has received a lot of interest and love over the past 30 years. The Winds of Time will be watching what comes next.

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OAK BAY HISTORY

Ed Hicks Former proprietor of Oak Bay’s glamorous Club Tango has led a life of bold adventure

By Ivan Watson

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❝ ... even today, I’m still in touch with people who say that he has profoundly transformed their lives.

❝ ❞

T

he twinkle in his eye is as strong as ever—a bright flash of knowing playfulness that hints at a life of derring-do, the wisdom of an ancient sage, and the determination of a man who has always followed his passions.

Turning 90 this fall, the words may not come as easily as they once did, but Ed Hicks remains a remarkable visionary, with a dash of classic Hollywood style. His life story defies the usual gravity of social conventions, and his unique career journey started back in the 1950s when he opened the infamous Club Tango—an exotic cabaretstyle dance hall—right in the heart of Oak Bay village.

“He made a fortune and lost a fortune,” says his daughter Donna Hicks Biggs. “At one point, he took a vow of poverty, lived very simply and even today, I’m still in touch with people who say that he has profoundly transformed their lives.”

Edward Hicks was born on November 15, 1930 in Tofield, Alberta. After the Second World War, he and his mother Elizabeth moved to Victoria. Hicks never completed high school, and instead found his own way with persistence, hard work and natural charisma. As a teenager, he dabbled in radio announcing, honing his flair for the dramatic in the pre-television era.

His long-time friend Ed Bell clearly recalls the impression Hicks made in the reserved Oak Bay of the ‘50s.

“I used to catch the bus on Oak Bay Avenue, and I remember this guy going by in a black ‘53 Cadillac convertible, wearing a dark tam,” he said. “I thought, who the heck is that guy? Who wears a tam? It turned out to be Ed Hicks.”

In 1951, Hicks purchased the Goblin Coffee Shop on Oak Bay Avenue (where Ivy’s Bookshop is now), next

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door to the Oak Bay Theatre with its glowing neon sign, and quickly turned it into a popular youth hangout, serving up ice cream floats, milkshakes and homemade pies. A jukebox in the corner played hit tunes from Perry Como and Doris Day, while patrons seated on chrome swivel stools tapped their feet and chatted with the gregarious proprietor.

After a couple of years, Hicks concocted a grand vision for the large, empty room upstairs, which was being used for special events. He signed a lease with a monthly rent of $67.50 and transformed it into a cabaret-style pleasure palace, with a stage for live acts, an expansive dance floor and décor seemingly lifted from a Cecil B. DeMille epic. With his usual flair for the dramatic, he named it “Club Tango.”

“There were these huge stairs that led up to the dance hall with dramatic Spanish murals, almost like black velvet paintings,” recalls Biggs. “All the tables were covered in white tablecloths. The atmosphere was really special.”

Open Monday to Friday from 6 pm to 1 am, Club Tango was both extremely popular—and extremely controversial—from the start. One police sergeant called it a “den of iniquity,” but Oak Bay’s police chief, Charlie Bates, normally turned a blind eye, as long as patrons behaved themselves.

Musical acts were the main draw and included the best of local talent in big band, swing and the new genre of rock ‘n’ roll. During one memorable night, with a capacity crowd trying the patience of even Chief Bates, Hicks scored a coup by featuring as the headliner Bill Kenny—the lead singer of the world-famous group The Ink Spots.

Amazingly, the club prospered at a time when liquor was prohibited. Patrons, dressed to the nines in fashions of the day, arrived carrying their own bottles tucked under a well-placed hat or an overcoat draped over their arm. The club’s furniture was even designed with this in mind—secret compartments under the tables provided quick cover for the times when police arrived for a friendly “visit.”

Club Tango was a family affair—Hicks and his wife Irene (the couple married in 1953 and had three daughters—Donna, Judy and Barbara) ran the business together, while his mother Elizabeth provided the catering.

Hicks lived nearby on St. Charles Street. He cut a dashing figure as a popular “man about town,” and often took

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Musician Bobby Hurst at Club Tango.

his family cruising off the waters of Oak Bay in his sleek streamlined speedboat, appropriately named There were these Tango. huge stairs that led In 1961, Hicks sold up to the dance hall Club Tango to his friend Ian Diamant (who ran with gigantic Spanish it for another five years murals, almost like until a new police chief black velvet paintings. proved less forgiving than Chief Bates, and noise complaints from theatre patrons downstairs eventually took their toll), and he left to seek fame and fortune in the US. In 1962, the Seattle World’s Fair promised opportunity and adventure, and Hicks capitalized by opening a Madame Tussaud’s Wax Museum in the heart of the city. It was a huge success—crowds were wowed by dozens of celebrity figures and a grand display of The Last Supper in wax.

Despite entanglements with the Internal Revenue Service, Hicks forged ahead in the 1960s and opened three additional museums, including one at Fisherman’s Wharf in San Francisco and the grandest of them all near Grauman’s Chinese Theater on Hollywood Boulevard in Los Angeles.

Hicks relished the role of showman, and rubbed shoulders with the likes of Lucille Ball, George Harrison and Elvis Presley. Pandemonium ensued the day Sonny and Cher came to visit their likenesses in wax.

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Ed Hicks’ speedboat “Tango” in 1958.

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❝ There was middle eastern royalty, movie stars and children of movie stars and everyone in between, and they would come and listen to him for hours

❞ At the end of the decade, Bell remembers working with Hicks to open The Last Supper display in Rome in the spectacular setting of the famous Forum, surrounded by ruins. It made a splash but didn’t last long.

“It was hard to compete with the real thing,” says Bell.

Hicks returned to Canada and opened another popular wax museum and Chamber of Horrors in Gastown. In 1978, Hicks leased a mango farm in Maui from the Hare Krishnas, grew his hair long and embraced a spiritual approach to life. On the terrace, he held court as the world’s rich and famous listened in rapt attention.

“There was middle eastern royalty and movie stars and children of movie stars and everyone in between, and they would come and listen to him for hours,” remembers Biggs.

“People were mesmerized and full of questions and he had answers for them.”

Conversations flowed to include religious and spiritual matters, aliens and UFOs, earthquake preparedness, Armageddon and much more—all fascinating topics that fuelled a successful career as a lecturer when he returned to Canada.

Later, he founded the World Shelter Foundation, with the aim of eliminating homelessness in Canada and around the world, using his own architectural designs for six-panelled dome shelters that, according to a promotional brochure of the era, were “totally self-contained life-support environments,” of “spherical, self-supporting shell structures” able to withstand disasters both natural and man-made.

Hicks and his wife Irene divorced in the 1980s, but remained close until her passing in 2019.

“They were really soulmates,” says Biggs. “He cared about people.”

These days Hicks lives quietly in a retirement home in the Comox valley, in the same facility where his daughter works.

Reflecting upon a life of adventure, his words of wisdom to the next generation are simple, yet firm.

“Be brave and just be happy,” he says knowingly.

“He’s had an incredible life; he’s had so many different journeys in 90 years,” says Biggs. “His life is much simpler now and he’s at peace. I’m just amazed by all the different journeys he’s had—right from when he was a very young man in Oak Bay running the Club Tango.”

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TWEED TRAVEL

Destination: wellness Here’s to your health on Vancouver Island

Tigh-Na-Mara Resort & Spa in Parksville Photo courtesy Tigh-Na-Mara

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ooking to travel nearby and add a little self-care to a COVID-19 world? Wellness getaways are important anytime, and Vancouver Island, with its easy access to lush forests, mesmerizing seascapes, relaxing spas and unique wellness therapies, is an ideal destination. (Be sure to check ahead before travelling for potential closures and/or pandemic protocols; or start planning a trip now for a post-pandemic world.)

Comox Valley There’s no better place to ease into some R & R than Vancouver Island, with at the recently renovated Kingfisher Oceanside Resort its easy access to lush & Spa, near Courtenay. forests, mesmerizing Here you can start your day seascapes, relaxing with some sun salutations spas and unique at the Starfish Yoga Studio before moving on to a rewellness therapies, is an juvenating afternoon at the ideal destination.

Pacific Mist Spa. Don’t miss the signature Hydropath treatment, where you stay hydrated with lemon water as you wind through a re-created West Coast shoreline, featuring sandstone sculpted steam caves, mineral pools, glacial waterfalls, tidal baths and a river walk.

These hot/cold water treatments are known to increase circulation, enhance bodily functions, stimulate the lymphatic system and decrease inflammation.

Finish off your wellness retreat day by dining at the Aqua Bistro & Wine Bar—its small plate menu of healthy seafoodand-vegetable-forward contemporary West Coast cuisine won’t weigh you down. When it’s time to watch the sunset, move into the serenity garden with your herbal tea to cosy up around the fire bowl and find your inner “om.”

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Photo courtesy Parksville Qualicum Beach Tourism

some of the warmest ocean swimming waters in the country, and because this is the protected side of Vancouver Island, the water is calmer, making it the perfect place to get out on a kayak. Local companies like Adventuress Sea Kayaking offer tours where you’ll paddle past white-shelled beaches to spot sea lions, harbour seals and even whales.

For a truly unique experience, try forest bathing with Pacific Rainforest Adventure Tours. Different than a mere walk in the woods, forest bathing (called shinrin-yoku in Japan, where it originates), will take you on a journey of forest in-

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teraction, where you tune into all of your senses and become totally present in the moment.

“Forest bathing has many proven positive effects,” says guide Ronda Murdock. “For example, after just 15 minutes in the forest, cortisol drops by 12 per cent. The chemical aerosols of natural preservatives and fungicides emitted by trees benefit our health, and some of these effects last for a week.”

For a morning meditation, plan a walk when the tide is out on Qualicum or Rathtrevor beaches, which turn into a sandy tidal flatland where you can find sea treasures like sand dollars,

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starfish, colourful shells and driftwood, and walk for hours.

From here, move on to the Tigh-Na-Mara Seaside Spa Resort, a 22-acre forested oceanfront sanctuary. Voted #1 spa in Canada by Spas of America, the resort’s 20,000-squarefoot Grotto Spa offers a healing mineral pool and selection of body treatments with West Coast natural ingredients. For dinner, you don’t even need to change out of your spa robe and sandals—just reserve a table at the spa’s on-site Treetop Tapas & Grill to finish your day with some spa-inspired, antioxidant cuisine.

Tofino To experience Vancouver Island’s wild Pacific side, Tofino is the place to go. With just over 2,000 inhabitants and its isolated location, the pace here is slow—it’s a perfect spot to unwind and tune into your inner peace.

Stops at the windswept beaches of the Pacific Rim National Park are a must. If you’re a boardwalk lover, catch the Rainforest Trail—two loop trails through lush, mostly old-growth forest (remember to breathe in those tree aerosols).

To be lulled asleep at night by the sounds of the ocean Catch the waves, stay at the luxurious Rainforest Wickaninnish Inn. Enjoy the Trail—two loops rugged, untamed landscape as you walk the property’s through mostly forest trails, or join a guided old-growth forest. naturalist hike every Saturday morning.

Later in the day, truly immerse yourself in wellness with a Hishuk Ish Tsawalk Awakening Treatment at the inn’s Ancient Cedars Spa. Inspired by the traditional cleansing techniques of the West Coast Indigenous people, the elements of fire, water, earth and air are harnessed to fully awaken all of your senses.

Ready for something a little more active? Hit Chesterman Beach out front of the Wickaninnish Inn for a surf lesson (Tofino is Canada’s biggest and most popular surf hangout)

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Hishuk Ish Tsawalk Treatment at Ancient Cedars Spa at the Wickaninnish. Photo by Kyler Vos.

or join a SUP yoga class to strengthen your core on the waves.

For a day soaking in some natural hot springs, book a tour with Jamie’s Whaling Station & Adventure Centres, which will whisk you away by boat to Hot Springs Cove at nearby Maquinna Provincial Park. A 30-minute boardwalk hike through old-growth forest brings you to seven natural geothermal rock pools where you will feel all of your worries melting away.

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Built-In Plunger Holder Triangle Healing Products offers an amazing range of and more... well-researched products that enhance well-being!

770 Spruce Ave. 250-370-1818 trianglehealing.com

Tribest Corporation • 1143 N. Patt Street, Anaheim, CA 92801, USA • Toll-Free: 888-254-7336 • Tel: 714-879-7150 Corporate website: www.tribest.com • Online store: www.tribestlife.com

WINTER 2020/21

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PETS ON THE AVENUE

ADOPT A PET!

Forever homes wanted! For this issue, Tweed joined up with the Victoria Humane Society to present a selection of pets looking for new homes. (And who wouldn’t want to live in Oak Bay?) Visit victoriahumanesociety.com for more information.

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WILL YOU HELP? With each emergency the bills mount but we can’t say no - can you? Please donate today!

Victoria Humane Society Emergency Medical Fund www.victoriahumanesociety.com/donate 44

TWEED WINTER 2020/21

Left: CLEO A Great Dane/Shepherd cross, Cleo is a big puppy on her way to being a great companion—just be prepared for some puppy antics that are amplified by size! She’s a clever beauty who loves to play so another medium/large dog pal would suit her just fine.

Opposite page: 1. QUINTON This sweet 8-month-old Yorkie cross came into care needing an operation to fix his leg. He’s a busy boy and will rush out of any open space (including a moving car window, which explains his injury). Quinton needs a person who is home most of the time as he doesn’t like to be left alone. Adoption pending 2. SARAH Look at those beautiful eyes.

3. POPPY This poor gal has been through so much and her veterinary bills have been huge, but she’s worth every penny.

Suffering from damage due to pneumonia, a lobe of Poppy’s left lung has been removed. We are hopeful this is the end of her trauma and she is on the road to a full recovery and a life full of love. Donations to her care are very much appreciated.

4. GUBBY was a well-loved companion but his people are just not well enough to keep up with his care. He may look mature but he’s just 3.

5. KITTENS So many kittens have come into care recently. VHS is grateful to the donors who make it possible for them to find refuge.

6. & 7. MILEY & TEDDY are excited to find their forever homes.

The Holidays May Be Different This Year, But They Can Still Be Merry and Bright Carlton House would like to wish a warm Season’s Greetings to you and your family! Call us or visit our website to book a virtual tour and learn all about Carlton House from the warmth of your own home.

A boutique seniors residence in the heart of Oak Bay. Reception: 250.595.1914 2080 OAK BAY AVENUE | WWW.CARLTONHOUSE.CA

Vital Signs measures the wellbeing of our region and reports citizens’ grades in a number of areas critical to Victoria’s vitality.

Get your free copy of the 44-page report at local grocery stores, rec centres and libraries or at victoriafoundation.ca

GET YOUR FREE COPY OF THE 2020 VITAL SIGNS TODAY

PRESENTING SPONSOR: ISSUE SPONSORS: Booth Scott, Crest, Urban Systems, Black Press Media, Oakcrest Park Estates LTD., Tecnet, and CIBC Wood Gundy - Blue Heron Advisory Group WINTER 2020/21

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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 80 Professionals of Newport Realty

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WWE E AARREE EENNGGEELL && VVÖÖLLKKEERR SS ..

With a new year comes the opportunityand andexcitement excitementtotomove moveforward forwardwith withstrength strength and and knowledge knowledge of of years With a new year comes the opportunity years past. past.

While unimaginable challenges,2020 2020left leftus usseeing seeingever evermore moreclearly clearlyour our needs, needs, desires desires and and priorities. priorities.

While fullfull of of unimaginable challenges,

Engel & Völkers witnessedthis thisshift shiftwith withdistinction distinctionas asnew new&&existing existingclients clients entrusted entrusted our our real real estate estate advisors At At Engel & Völkers wewe witnessed advisors in local markets around the globe to help buy and sell their homes to adapt to new lifestyles.

We too adapted in local markets around the globe to help buy and sell their homes to adapt to new lifestyles. We too adapted to to ensure maintained exceptionalservice servicedelivered deliveredtotothese theseindividuals individualsininnew, new, efficient efficient and and creative creative ways. ensure wewe maintained exceptional ways.

The holidays provide an opportunity for us to reflect on the year that was and spend quality time with those we love The holidays provide an opportunity for us to reflect on the year that was and spend quality time with those we love to determine what the New Year may have in store. If buying or selling your home is part of the conversation, Engel & to determine what the New Year may have in store. If buying or selling your home is part of the conversation, Engel & Völkers has the local market expertise and the global reach to help you reach your goals in 2021.

Völkers has the local market expertise and the global reach to help you reach your goals in 2021.

Wishing you and yours a wonderful Holiday Season and Happy New Year!

Wishing you and yours a wonderful Holiday Season and Happy New Year!

VICTORIA 735VICTORIA Humboldt Street 735 Humboldt Street Victoria, BC V8W 1B1 Victoria, BC V8W 1B1 +1 778 433 8885 +1 778 433 8885 victoria.evrealestate.com victoria.evrealestate.com

OAK BAY BAYAvenue 2249OAK Oak Bay 2249 Oak Bay Avenue Victoria, BC V8R 1G4 Victoria, BC V8R 1G4 +1 778 433 8885 +1 778 433 8885 victoria.evrealestate.com victoria.evrealestate.com

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Völkers. All All rights rights reserved. reserved. Each Each brokerage brokerage independently independently owned owned and and operated. operated. Engel Engel & & Völkers Völkers and and its its independent independent License License Partners Partners are are Equal Equal Opportunity Opportunity Employers Employers and and fully fully support support the the principles principles of of the the Fair Fair Housing Housing Act. Act. ©2019 Engel & Völkers. All rights reserved. Each brokerage independently owned and operated. Engel & Völkers and its independent License Partners are Equal Opportunity Employers and fully support the principles of the Fair Housing Act.