Daily XTRA | Vancouver’s increasingly stable Queer Arts Festival regenerates

BY STACY THOMAS Published Thu, Jul 17, 2014
ORIGINAL ARTICLE hereThis year’s fest aims to build bridges across all kinds of borders

For Rachel Iwaasa, ReGenerations means cultivating new connections across age, boundaries, experience and borders.

“This year our focus is on mentoring tight relationships,” the artistic director of Vancouver’s multidisciplinary Queer Arts Festival (QAF) says. Whereas previous festivals have facilitated shorter workshops and mentorship programs, this year’s programs will last longer and, she hopes, go deeper for participants and mentors alike.

One such participatory workshop spent two months encouraging gay refugees and immigrants to express themselves through painting, assisted by mentors from Jordan and Colombia. The results will be shared during the festival along with an international art exhibition, curated by multidisciplinary artist Laiwan, calledQueering the International, which will feature the work of established and emerging gay artists from around the world.

“Art is meant to expand our perceptions, expand our worldview,” Laiwan says, “and I think it won’t do that if we’re not including people from everywhere in the world. That is my interest here, to bring all of those worlds into this exhibition at the Roundhouse.”

A prominent figure in Vancouver’s art scene since founding Or Gallery in 1983, Laiwan has brought together 21 queer artists from backgrounds as diverse as Russia, Iran, Hong Kong and Trinidad to speak visually about their particular experiences.

“We’re not that much different on another level from some of the things that people in different parts of the world experience,” Laiwan says. “They just might be different in scale, and they might be different in terms of spectacle. It’s not about comparing us, saying that we have it easy here compared to there, but to be able to say, ‘In what ways can we be better allies or have better networks around this?’”

One of the more controversial — and well-known — of the visiting artists is South African “visual activist” Zanele Muholi. In her home of South Africa, lesbians, especially black lesbians, live in daily fear of violence and death. Using almost an anthropological portraiture approach to photography, Muholi has documented lesbian lives, deaths and relationships in South Africa, including her own, since 2006.

Her work has been publicly derided at home; in 2009, it was called “pornographic” and “immoral” by then-minister of arts and culture Lulu Xingwana. It has also been widely appreciated and exhibited, including in a current solo show at Ryerson University in Toronto.

Other notable artists exhibiting at Queering the International are Canadian filmmaker John Greyson, who was detained in Egypt in 2013, and Tejal Shah, an Indian lesbian video artist who describes her gay- and feminist-focused art as “political” in a country where homosexuality was recriminalized last year.

Many refugee artists living in Canada will also be featured in the show, offering unique perspectives as newcomers and, at times, outsiders to Canadian society. “I see the project solely as a seed; it’s like a beginning,” Laiwan says. “The show really celebrates the variety of experiences that people come from. So it’s not homogenous, it’s not simple; a lot of the stories are very complicated.”

Another group of artists attempting to tell heretofore untold stories is Cor Flammae, an all-queer professional classical choral group dedicated to queer-focused content that bills itself as Canada’s first such ensemble.

Managing director Missy Clarkson was so inspired by a performance at last year’s Queer Arts Festival that she quickly rounded up 21 eager singers and two composers from Vancouver’s professional choral scene.

The timing was right, she says. “They came out of the woodwork and word spread . . . I could tell that there was a need, because the answer was always resoundingly, ‘Yes, I want this, this is my dream, let’s do it,’” she says.

Clarkson and co-founders Madeline Hannan-Leith and Amelia Pitt-Brooke brought the idea of a Cor Flammae festival performance to the QAF board, and the answer, again, was a resounding ‘yes,’ she says. “They said, ‘We don’t have the money, and we don’t have the room, but we’re going to find some money, and we’re going to make some room.’”

The choir’s performance on July 24 is meant to highlight hidden stories from classical music’s queer history, but that’s not the only objective of the group’s formation: it’s a way for queer choral singers to open up and be themselves while practising their art, where often it’s one or the other, Clarkson says.

“People don’t necessarily feel entirely welcome to be their full selves. There’s a lot of erasure,” she explains.

“It was really interesting to see how comfortable people got so quickly because we didn’t have to pretend, because you’re usually wearing a muumuu with shoulder pads, and maybe you want to be wearing a suit, and maybe you’re singing and pretending that you don’t have a same-sex partner.

“We have a comfortable connection to each other, to the composers,” she says. “We just want to do justice to the experience of the music, and hopefully that’s what we do.”

Colin Tilney, who turns 80 this year, has emerged as a leader in the last few decades of classical music, performing pieces with the instruments for which they were originally composed. The early-music pioneer, whose body of work includes a long list of prestigious harpsichord and piano recordings, doesn’t open up readily, preferring to keep his private life private.

“Having been conventionally married for the first half of my musical life, with two daughters, it’s not likely that I should have experienced discrimination,” Tilney says in an email to Xtra.

He and his current partner married three years after Canada legalized same-sex marriage. “When my partner, William, retired in 1988, the RTO [Retired Teachers of Ontario] allowed us joint medical coverage under common law,” Tilney says. “When we married in 2008, it was partly to confirm what we feel for each other and partly to set our future life together on a firmer and clearer foundation.”

Despite his reserved demeanour, Tilney reveals that one of the highlights of his career was “delighting my partner on our first meeting by playing him Scarlatti in the nude.”

Tilney’s upcoming QAF performance, entitled Colin Tilney Celebrates LXXX, will include music by Scarlatti, as well as by Bach, Couperin and South African lesbian composer Priaulx Rainier.

Having lost, then regained, three quarters of its federal funding last year and more recently received stable operating funding from the BC government as well as a five-percent increase from the federal government, Iwaasa says the festival is financially secure for now.

Still, she hopes community members will contribute to the festival’s future to shift its reliance away from government funding. “One of our goals this year is to talk to our audience and community, who aren’t necessarily used to thinking of the Queer Arts Festival as a place where they can go for their taxable donations,” she says.

“It would be fair to say that we are one of the fastest-growing cultural festivals in Canada,” she says. “We have an incredible pool of artists to choose from. It makes it very easy to curate a festival that’s going to be amazing. It’s not hard to find great queer artists.”

Queer Arts Festival 
Wed, July 23–Sat, Aug 9 
Roundhouse Community Centre, 181 Roundhouse Mews 
queerartsfestival.com

Roundhouse Blog Team | EXPLOSION OF TALENT AT THE QUEER ARTS FESTIVAL

BY LINDSAY GLAUSER KWAN Published Fri, Jul 11, 2014
ORIGINAL ARTICLE here

Dare being challenged. Risk being changed at this year’s Queer Arts Festival at the Roundhouse. From July 23 to August 9, the festival will highlight cutting-edge performance art, music, visual arts, literature and more by artists of all ages at this year’s festival under the theme “ReGenerations.”

RH14_eventslide_QueerArtsFestival1

The organizers call this year’s festival “a defiant reframing of the Nazi term “Degenerate Art,” where artists including such notable painters as Pablo Picasso, were claimed as a dangerous threat to the Nazi society. This summer festival will instead celebrate the contributions to society by queer artists and from queer art.

The Pride in Art Society has been doing just that for the visual arts since they began operation in the 1990s. By making queer artists and art visible, recognized and celebrated, the festival aims to “build a better world.” In 2006, the festival expanded to include more genres. Today, the festival is a multi-disciplinary celebration of music, literature, performance and the visual arts by artists around the world.

While this year’s festival is jam-packed with talent, here are some highlights in all genres of arts to pique your interest:

AmberDawn-Press-Kit-3

If you are a lover of literature (and have always wanted to write), sign up for Amber Dawn’s pay-what-you-can Tough Language and Tender Wisdom memoir writing workshop for transgressive voices. Amber Dawn is the author of two books, How Poetry Saved My Life (the 2013 City of Vancouver book award winner) and SubRosa (a Lambda award winner). With a variety of powerful exercises spread over two days, this workshop is designed to encourage participants to take risks in writing their personal stories.

For visual arts enthusiasts, “Queering the International” will set-up in the exhibition hall and features artists from around the globe. Curated by Zimbabwe-born curator/artist Laiwan, the exhibit explores queer identity on an international scope and from a variety of viewpoints including from Mexico, Iran, Russia, Brazil, India and here in Canada. Admission is by donation.

For performing arts buffs, the award winning X by Sunny Drake explores the topic of addiction and recovery with a visionary show of stop motion animation, puppetry and live performance. Over forty interviews with community members put real-life addiction issues in the spotlight of the performance. An unforgettable show for a $15/$30 ticket.

For music connoisseurs, Colin Tilney will give a solo harpsichord recital to celebrate his legacy in his 80th year. In collaboration with Vancouver’s Early Music Festival, Colin Tilney had a historically informed performance technique, which means he only uses original music sources and plays on either antique instruments or those that are based on the antique design. Tickets for the Colin Tilney Celebrates LXXX event are $15/$30.

The Queer Arts Festival runs from July 23 to August 9 and all events take place at the Roundhouse. For more information about the events, please check out queerartsfestival.com.

SD Holman recognized for showcasing LGBT artists and community

Published in Xtra, June 4, 2014

By Natasha Barsotti

Shaira (SD) Holman, artistic director of the Queer Arts Festival, has won the 2014 Women of Distinction Award from the YWCA, under the arts, culture and design category.

The award, which recognizes outstanding women whose achievements contribute to the community’s well-being and future, was presented to Holman at a ceremony held June 3.

“I got to give kudos to the Young Women’s Christian organization for nominating me — bearded, butch, Jewish dyke,” Holman said prior to the awards ceremony.

The YWCA says Holman has played a key role in providing a platform that highlights and celebrates gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender writers, musicians, filmmakers, visual artists, dancers and performers.

“As artistic director of the Queer Arts Festival (QAF), Shaira’s vision has transformed the festival from a tiny volunteer-run organization to one of the fastest growing cultural festivals in Canada,” the YWCA says on its website.

“We’re so proud of her,” says Rachel Iwaasa, QAF’s director of operations. “It’s so great to see her getting this level of recognition. The Women of Distinction is recognized as one of Canada’s most prestigious awards, and Shaira has been working really hard for a really long time, doing her work, which ultimately is also work for our community through the arts.”

The YWCA points to Holman’s establishment of a mentorship program within QAF, a bid to provide space for queer youth to develop and display their art. It also highlights Holman’s acclaimed photography project, Butch: Not Like the Other Girls, a series of 81 portraits that showcase women who exist outside the narrow definition of what it means to be female.

Butch was enthusiastically received at a showing in Easthampton, Massachusetts, and is set to tour San Francisco, Boston and Toronto in the fall.

A book based on the project will be launched June 19 at Little Sister’s bookstore.

Part of the project is now at Heartwood, the space formerly occupied by Rhizome Café.

View Xtra article here.

YMCA Woman of Distinction

Published in Vancouver Sun, June 4, 2014

Shaira Holman recognized as Woman of Distinction.

By Matthew Robinson

Shaira (SD) Holman, a photographic artist and a driving force behind Vancouver’s Queer Arts Festival, accepted a YWCA Women of Distinction award Tuesday for her work at the trans-disciplinary arts festival.

“Shaira’s vision has transformed the festival from a tiny volunteer-run organization to one of the fastest growing cultural festivals in Canada,” according to the YWCA’s nomination of Holman, which praised her for showcasing gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender writers, musicians, filmmakers, and visual and performance artists in the community.

“I have to give credit to the Y — the Young Women’s Christian Association — for choosing a bearded, butch, Jewish dyke for this award,” Holman said in an interview minutes after receiving the award. “It was really lovely to be honoured in this way.”

Holman said she started the Queer Arts Festival — which began as the Pride in Art exhibition about seven years ago — because there was nowhere else at the time where she could pursue art on identity.

Holman recently announced her intention to take a year off work at the festival to focus on other projects. Those include touring Butch: Not Like the Other Girls, her well received and most recent photo exhibition, which Holman intends to turn into a book. She will also work on a pair of projects based on recent transformational events in her life — the 2009 death of her wife, Catherine White-Holman, and a cross-Canada pilgrimage Holman began a few months later in her wife’s honour.

View the Vancouver Sun article here.

Daily Xtra | Queer Arts Fest Artistic Director nominated for YWCA award

Queer Arts Fest Artistic Director nominated for YWCA award

BY NATASHA BARSOTTI, Published Fri, May 30, 2014 1:00 pm EDTORIGINAL ARTICLE: http://dailyxtra.com/vancouver/news/queer-arts-fest-artistic-director-nominated-ywca-award


SD Holman up for Women of Distinction Award on June 3

The artistic director of Vancouver’s Queer Arts Festival has been nominated for a prestigious award.

SD (Shaira) Holman is one of two nominees for this year’s Women of Distinction Award from the YWCA, under the Art, Culture and Design category. Susan Van der Flier, a Vancouver Opera board director, has also been nominated.

Since 1984, the awards have recognized outstanding women whose achievements contribute to the community’s well-being and future.

The YWCA says Holman has played a key role in providing a platform that highlights and celebrates gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender writers, musicians, filmmakers, visual artists, dancers and performers.

“As artistic director of the Queer Arts Festival (QAF), Shaira’s vision has transformed the festival from a tiny volunteer-run organization to one of the fastest growing cultural festivals in Canada,” the YWCA says on its website.

The YWCA points to Holman’s establishment of a mentorship program within QAF, a bid to provide space for queer youth to develop and display their art. It also highlights Holman’s acclaimed photography project, Butch: Not Like the Other Girls, a series of 81 portraits that showcase women who exist outside the narrow definition of what it means to be female.

Butch, which first adorned bus shelters throughout Vancouver and was later exhibited at the Vancouver East Cultural Centre (The Cultch), is now set to tour San Francisco, Boston and Toronto this fall. Part of the project is now at Heartwood, the space formerly occupied by Rhizome Café.

A book based on the project will be launched officially June 19 at Little Sister’s bookstore.

Holman says she feels “very honoured” to be nominated for the Women of Distinction Award, “especially since I think there are so many other very deserving artists that I didn’t see nominated.”

“I got to give kudos to the Young Women’s Christian organization for nominating me — bearded, butch, Jewish dyke,” she adds. She says she doesn’t seem to fit the mould of the award’s previous recipients, who seemed to be more corporate.

The winner will be announced June 3.

Shaira (SD) Holman, 2014 YWCA Women of Distinction Award Winner

BY ECUAD, Published Wed, June 4, 2014 1:00 pm EDTORIGINAL ARTICLE: http://www.ecuad.ca/about/news/313320


Shaira (SD) Holman (’92) is the recipient of a 2014 YWCA Women of Distinction Award for her work as Co-founder/Artistic Director of Vancouver’s Queer Arts Festival.

The festival, now one of the fastest growing cultural festivals in Canada, was started by Holman seven years ago. She initally started Pride in Art (the name of the initial exhibition) because she felt there was nowhere else at the time for her to pursue art on identity.

The YWCA Women of Distinction Awards honours individuals and organizations whose outstanding activities and achievements contribute to the well-being and future of our community.

Holman plans to take a sabbatical year to focus on other projects.

We congratulate her on this wonderful achievement!

GayVancouver | Alien Sex is romantic, disturbing, passionate and tender

BY GAY VANCOUVER in ARTS Published Thurs, May 22, 2014

ORIGINAL ARTICLE: http://gayvancouver.net/arts/alien-sex-romantic-disturbing-passionate-and-tender/


If the thought of Alien Sex doesn’t immediately pique your interest, perhaps the idea of a trans-disciplinary arts project that combines generations, genres, genders and sexualities will.

To help raise the funds necessary to put together the project for this year’s Queer Arts Festival, the Alien Sex team is in the midst of a Kickstarter campaign to raise funds. With just ten days to go they are looking for the final push to get them to their $10,000 goal.

But what exactly is Alien Sex? According to organizers it is a place where “gay, lesbian, bi, queer, straight, vanilla, kinky and yet-to-be-named perspectives collide in a speculative fiction that fearlessly explores the strange, beautiful, and sometimes inexplicable territory of human sexuality”.

In real terms, Vancouver actor and director David Bloom will bring together a diverse team of emerging and established artists in a project that incorporates words, images, movement, and sound.

And of course, like all good Kickstarter campaigns, contributors won’t go away empty-handed with perks that include everything from postcards to Queer Arts Festival passes and even an opportunity to have a post-show dinner with the cast.

The Alien Sex Kickstarter campaign runs through Sunday, June 1. Visit http://kickstarter.com to contribute.

 

Daily Xtra | Queer Arts Festival receives more stable BC funding

By Corey |  April 12, 2014

Queer Arts Festival receives more stable BC funding

BY SHAUNA LEWIS Published Sat, Apr 12, 2014 1:00 pm EDTORIGINAL ARTICLE: http://dailyxtra.com/vancouver/news/queer-arts-festival-receives-stable-bc-funding


Organizers waiting to hear from federal ministry that cut funding last year

Having lost, then regained, three-quarters of its federal funding last year, Vancouver’s Queer Arts Festival (QAF) organizers are welcoming increased funding from the BC Arts Council.

In a letter addressed to the society that runs QAF, the arts council praised the annual festival for its “incredible work and great aggressive programming.”

QAF sets the bar “very high on artistic achievement,” the letter says, and engages “a very healthy, broad demographic.”

While the BC Arts Council has funded QAF in the past, this year’s grant marks a transition from year-to-year project funding to a more stable operating grant.

“We got an increase from the BC Arts Council; our grant nearly doubled there,” says QAF’s acting artistic director, Rachel Iwaasa, “and we got an increase from the city as well.”

A spokesperson for the Ministry of Community, Sport and Cultural Development, which funds the BC Arts Council, confirmed in an email to Xtra that the province has given $12,000 in operating funding to QAF.

Iwaasa says that getting the operational grant from the province proves the festival is gaining attention as a “major player” in the arts scene, warranting stable funding commitment.

“The BC Arts Council is notoriously the most difficult to get onto operating funding because their funding has been up and down,” she says. “But the provincial government this past year has made much more of a commitment to the arts, which means for the first time in over a decade, there was a window of opportunity for them to add groups onto operating funding.”

The City of Vancouver has also allotted $15,000 to the festival. “The Pride in Arts group have received project grants from the city for several years,” says spokesperson Nancy Eng.

QAF is still waiting to hear about its funding application to the federal Department of Canadian Heritage.

Last year, Canadian Heritage suddenly cut QAF’s annual $44,000 grant because, it wrote in a letter to organizers, the festival no longer fit the sponsorship criteria to deliver “measurable and tangible results, to optimize available funds, and to meet the needs of Canadians.” (Toronto’s Buddies in Bad Times Theatre received a very similar letter in November.)

Two days after QAF went public about its funding cut, Canadian Heritage quietly reinstated 75 percent of its grant, without explanation.

Iwaasa says the organization met with a Canadian Heritage representative last fall “to see if there were any ways we could strengthen our application. The officer didn’t have a lot of advice.”

Iwaasa says QAF ended 2013 with a deficit because of the federal funding cut, but private and corporate donors have helped mitigate the consequences.

Iwaasa won’t divulge how much money was raised through community help but says the response was immediate and helped reinforce the festival.

“Thanks to the community coming together for us, QAF was able to weather last year’s cut from DCH, but not without some pretty serious belt-tightening,” she says.

“Although we remain financially very healthy — as the glowing report from [BC Arts Council] attests — the cut did mean we finished 2013 with a small deficit, the very first in QAF’s history,” she says.

Iwaasa says QAF is counting on the community’s support again this year and expects to hear about federal funding by the end of April.

WE Vancouver | Best of the City 2014: Reader’s Choice Results!

Best of the City 2014: Reader’s Choice Results!


BY WE VANCOUVER EDITORIAL Published Tues, Feb 25, 2014 9:00 pmORIGINAL ARTICLE: http://www.wevancouver.com/news/best-of-the-city-2014-readers-choice-results-1.881310


Our readers know what makes Vancouver one of the best cities in the world, and a record number took the time to share in our annual Best of the City readers choice survey.

Public Art

1. A-maze-ing Laughter (English Bay)

2. Digital Orca (Vancouver Convention Centre)

3. East Van Cross (Clark and East 6th)

Performing Arts Fest

1. PuSh Festival (300-640 W. Broadway, 604-874-7874)

2. Bard on the Beach (203-456 W. Broadway, 604-737-0625)

3. Vancouver Fringe Festival (1398 Cartwright, 604-257-0350)

Musician/Band

1. Mother Mother

2. Dan Mangan

3. Said the Whale

Music Festival

1. Vancouver International Jazz Festival

2. Vancouver Folk Festival

3. Khatsalano

Visual Arts Festival

1. VIFF (1181 Seymour, 604-685-0260)

2. Eastside Culture Crawl (108-1000 Parker, 778-960-7575)

3. Queer Arts Festival (21706-1424 Commercial, 604-802-7269)

Visual Artists: Jim Hart, Andy Dixon, Alice Rich, Ken Lum and Paul Wong

Theatre Company

1. Arts Club Theatre Company (1585 Johnson, 604-687-5315)

2. Bard on the Beach Shakespeare Festival (203-456 W. Broadway, 604-737-0625)

3. Vancouver TheatreSports League (1502 Duranleau, 604-738-7013)

Dance Company

1. Burlesque Beauties

2. Ballet BC (677 Davie, 604-732-5003)

3. Goh Ballet Academy (2345 Main, 604-872-4014)

Classical Music Ensemble

1. VSO

2. Vancouver Opera (tie)

2. Turning Point Ensemble (tie)

3. Musica Intima (tie)

3. Borealis String Quartet (tie)

3. Novo Ensemble (tie)

Art Gallery

1. Vancouver Art Gallery (750 Hornby, 604-662-4700)

2. Museum of Anthropology (6393 NW. Marine, 604-822-5087)

3. Bill Reid and Douglas Reynolds (2335 Granville, 604-731 9292)

Repertory Art House Movie Theatre

1. Rio (1660 E. Broadway, 604-879-3456)

2. Cinematheque (200-1131 Howe, 604-688-8202)

3. Fifth Avenue (2110 Burrard, 604-734-7469)

Local Entrepreneur

1. Ryan Holmes (Hootsuite)

2. Mark Brand (tie) (Save On Meats)

2. Jim Pattison (tie) (Signs, media, automotive)

3. Chip Wilson (Lululemon)

Local Casino

1. River Rock (8811 River Rd, Richmond, (604) 247-8900)

2. Edgewater (750 Pacific Blvd South, 604-687-3343)

3. Hard Rock (2080 United Blvd, Coquitlam, 604-523-6888)

Local Blog

1. Miss 604

2. Vancouver is Awesome

3. Vancity Buzz

Local Twitter Feed

1. @VancityBuzz

2. @Miss604

3. @VIAwesome

Local TV Station

1. Global

2. CTV

3. CBC

Local TV Personality

1. Tamara Taggart (CTV)

2. Chris Gailus (Global)

3. Ian Hanomansing (CBC)

Local Radio Station

1. The Peak 102.7

2. CBC

3. The Beat 94.5

Local Radio Personality

1. Kid Carson (SONiC 104.9)

2. Nat & Drew (Virgin 95.3)

3. Stephen Quinn (CBC)

Local Sports Team

1. Canucks

2. Whitecaps

3. Giants

Local Athlete

1. Ryan Kesler (Canucks)

2. Henrik Sedin (Canucks)

3. Joe Cannon (Whitecaps)

Local Podcast

1. Stop Podcasting Yourself

2. Caustic Soda

3. Team 1040 Podcast (tie)

3. Sneaky Dragon (tie)

Shopping Street

1. Robson Street

2. Main Street

3. West 4th Avenue

Shopping Centre

1. Pacific Centre (701 W. Georgia, 604-688-7235)

2. Oakridge (650 W. 41st, 604-261-2511)

3. Metrotown (4700 Kingsway, 604-438-4715)

Shoes

1. Gravity Pope (2205 W. 4th, 604-731-7673)

2. Fluevog (837 Granville, 604-688-2828; 65 Water, 604-688-6228)

3. Lords Shoes and Apparel (2932 Granville St, 604-730-2914)

Lingerie

1. Victorias Secret (multiple locations)

2. Dianes Lingerie & Loungewear Ltd (2950 Granville, 604-738-5121)

3. Change Lingerie (2358 Cambie, 604-873-1056; 2815 W. Broadway, 604-742-0557)

Leather Goods

1. Danier Leather (1018 Robson, 604-689-7330)

2. Pelle Italian Leather (1204 Seymour, 604-362-6416)

3. Erin Templeton (511 Carrall, 604-682-2451)

Jewellery

1. Spence Diamonds (888 Burrard, 604-734-3912)

2. Blue Ruby (multiple locations)

3. Maharani Jewels (1500-701 W. Georgia, 604-637-1947)

Toy Store

1. Toys R Us (1154 W. Broadway, 604-733-8697)

2. Granville Island Toy Company (1496 Cartwright, 604-684-0076; 3298 Main, 604-875-0065)

3. Kaboodles (multiple locations)

Car Dealership New

1. The BMW Store (2040 Burrard, 604-659-3200)

2. Carter Honda (2390 Burrard, 604-736-2821)

3. Jim Pattison Toyota Downtown (1290 Burrard, 1-888-778-4869)

Car Dealership Used

1. Jim Pattison Toyota Downtown (1290 Burrard, 1-888-778-4869)

2. Auto One (8555 Cambie, 1-877-350-7307)

3. Empower Lease Corp (1300-1500 W. Georgia, 604-739-2555)

Home Furnishings

1. Parliament (115 Water, 604-689-0800)

2. Crate & Barrel/CB2 (multiple locations)

3. Moes Home Collection (1728 Glen, 604-687-5599)

Second Hand/Consignment Furnishings

1. Sellution Vintage Furniture (3206 Main, 604-876-4517)

2. Habitat for Humanity ReStore (69 W. 69, 604-326-3055)

3. Duchess Vintage (tie) (430 Columbia, 604-558-1850)

3. Refind on Main (tie) (4609 Main, 778-855-0969)

Home Electronics

1. Best Buy (2220 Cambie, 604-638-4966)

2. Future Shop (multiple locations)

3. Target (multiple locations)

Home Accessories

1. Urban Barn (multiple locations)

2. Crate & Barrel/CB2 (multiple locations)

3. West Elm (2915 Granville, 604-734-9302)

Lighting

1. Robinson Lighting & Bath Centre (2285 Cambie, 604-879-2494)

2. Lightform Architectural Lighting (1060 Homer, 604-688-7022)

3. The Lighting Warehouse (12420 Bridgeport, 604-270-3339)

Kitchenware/Cooking Store

1. Ming Wo (multiple locations)

2. Gourmet Warehouse (1340 E. Hastings, 604-253-3022)

3. Cookworks (377 Howe, 604-662-4918; 1548 W. Broadway, 604-731-1148)

Gardening Store

1. Art Knapp (1401 Hornby, 604-662-3303)

2. GardenWorks (multiple locations)

3. David Hunter Garden Center (2560 W. Broadway, 604-733-1534)

Veterinarian

1. Yaletown Pet Hospital (893 Expo Blvd, 604-682-7389)

2. Granville Island Veterinary Hospital (1635 W. 4th, 604-734-7744)

3. Amherst Veterinarians (tie) (260-2083 Alma, 604-221-7771)

3. Vancouver Veterinary Hospital (tie) (1541 Kingsway, 604-876-2231)

Pet Grooming

1. Woof! Dog Shoppe (tie) (1905 W. 1st, 604-568-4212)

1. Petsmart (tie) (multiple locations)

2. Mestisos Pets Spa & Supplies Corporation (3087 Oak, 604-738-0033)

3. Pawsh Dog Spa & Boutique (tie) (80 Smithe, 604-685-6088)

3. The Pet Shop Boys (tie) (3080 Cambie, 604-569-3377)

Pet Daycare

1. Dog Taxi (2419 Columbia, 604-720-0358)

2. The Urban Puppy Shop (200-1375 W. 6th, 604-736-0557)

3. The Doghouse (2425 Manitoba, 604-708-6100;105-1833 Anderson, 604-737-7500)

Tattoo/Piercing Studio

1. Adrenaline Professional Body Piercing & Tattoos (1014 Granville, 604-669-6800; 1926 W. 4th, 604-734-8282)

2. Sacred Heart Tattoo (725 Nelson, 604-647-0826)

3. Gastown Tattoo Parlour (105 W. Cordova, 604-642-6556)

Sex/Erotic Shop

1. Little Sisters Book & Art Emporium (1238 Davie, 604- 669-1753)

2. Honey Gifts (tie) (3448 Cambie, 604-708-8065; 350 Water, 604-684-8065)

2. Womyns Ware (tie) (896 Commercial, 604-254-2543)

3. The Art of Loving (1819 W. 5th, 604-742-9988)

Head Shop

1. Ignite Smoke Shop (109 W. Cordova, 778-786-0977)

2. Cottonmouth Smokeshop (1120 Davie, 604-331-1602)

3. Puff (multiple locations)

Games

1. EB Games (10-457 W. 8th, 604-874-1080; 650 W. 41st, 604-263-3745)

2. Drexoll Games (2880 W. 4th, 604-733-6511)

3. Strategies Games & Hobbies (3878 Main, 604-872-6911)

Art & Craft Supplies

1. Michaels (665 W. Broadway, 604-638-2523; 1022 Alberni, 604-638-1940)

2. Opus Framing and Art Supplies (multiple locations)

3. DeSerres (2811 Grandview, 604-681-7351; 1431 W. Broadway, 604-733-1331)

Musical Instruments

1. Tom Lee Music (929 Granville, 604-685-8471)

2. Long & McQuade (368 Terminal, 604-734-4886)

3. Prussin Music (3607 W. Broadway, 604-736-3036)

Mobile Device Retailer

1. Rogers (multiple locations)

2. Telus (multiple locations)

3. Fido (multiple locations)

Personal Computer Retailer

1. Apple Store (701 W. Georgia, 778-373-1800; 650 W. 41st, 778-373-4500)

2. Future Shop (tie) (1740 W. Broadway, 604-739-3000; 798 Granville, 604-683-2502)

2. Best Buy (tie) (2220 Cambie, 604-638-4966)

3. NCIX (1887 W. Broadway, 604-731-9208)

Hotel

1. Fairmont Pacific Rim (1038 Canada Pl, 604-695-5300)

2. Four Seasons (791 W. Georgia, 604-689-9333)

3. Fairmont Hotel Vancouver (900 W. Georgia, 604-684-3131)

Out of Town Spa Getaway

1. Scandinave Spa (8010 Mons Rd, Whistler, 604-935-2424)

2. Harrison Hot Springs Resort and Spa (100 Esplanade, 1-866-247-0426)

3. Sparkling Hill Resort (888 Sparkling Pl, Vernon, 250-275-1556)

BC Resort Hotel

1. Black Rock Oceanfront Resort (596 Marine Dr, Ucluelet, 250-726-4800)

2. Fairmont Chateau Whistler Resort (tie) (4599 Chateau Blvd, 604-938-8000)

2. Harrison Hot Springs Resort and Spa (tie) (100 Esplanade, Harrison Hot Springs, 1-866-247-0426)

3. The Wickaninnish Inn (500 Osprey Ln, Tofino, 250-725-3100)

Realtor

1. Brad Davis (4012 Cambie, 778 238-0801)

2. Jordan MacNab (604-551-5695)

3. Aaron Jasper (tie) (204-345 Robson, 604-669-3131)

3. Mike & Will Team (tie) (204-345 Robson, 778-772-4252)

Real Estate Developer

1. Bluetree Homes (2000-1055 Dunsmuir, 604-648-1800)

2. Bosa (500-1901 Rosser, 604-294-0666)

3. Cressey (800-925 W. Georgia, 604-683-1256)

Real Estate Agency

1. Century 21 (multiple locations)

2. Re/Max (multiple locations)

3. Royal LePage (City Centre, 345 Robson, 604-408-9311)

Mortgage Broker

1. Lorena Grigore (604-722-9890)

2. Ryan McKinley (604-340-1611)

3. Birgit Holm (604-762-0166)

Construction Reno Contractor

1. Refine and Design (778-895-4001)

2. Panther Group (343 Railway, 604-681-1298)

3. Kindred Construction (tie) (308-2150 W. Broadway, 604-736-4847;

3. Fairtrade Works (tied) (101-1520 Rand Ave, 1-855-860-7366)

Storage

1. Maple Leaf Storage (multiple locations)

2. Public Storage (multiple locations)

3. Yaletown Mini Storage (864 Cambie, 604-683-5885)

Moving Company

1. The Move Man (1121 W. 15th, 604-973-0173)

2. Crown Mountain Movers (2255 Magnussen, 778-872-7696)

3. Two Small Men with Big Hearts Moving (104-2251 No. 5 Rd., 604-324-3333)

Junk Removal

1. 1-800-GOT-JUNK? (1-800-468-5865)

2. Fresh Start Recycling (237 E. 4th, 604-637-6400)

3. Hunky Haulers (604-355-4865)

Landscaper

1. Student Yard Works (155 Pemberton, 604-551-9409)

2. The Garden Genie (604-323-0484)

3. Absolute Landscaping (tie) (807-250 E. 6th, 604-684-9901)

3. Terraform Landscaping (tie) (305 Mansfield Pl, 604-988-9506)

Plumber

1. Lew Plumbing and Heating (127-2323 Boundary Rd, 604-205-9436)

2. Hillcrest Plumbing and Heating (212 E. 17th, 604-879-1415)

3. Milani Plumbing Drainage and Heating (3433 E. 25, 604-737-2603)

Carpet Cleaners

1. Brisas Carpet Care (2076 W. 47th, 604-720-1572)

2. Coit (1-800-367-2648)

3. Aero Carpet Cleaning (tie) (8258 St. George, 604-321-7440)

3. Citrus O Carpet Care (tie) (601 W. Broadway, 604-433-7585)

Caterer

1. Emelles Catering (177 W. 7th, 604-875-6551)

2. The Lazy Gourmet (1605 W. 5th, 604-734-2507)

3. Culinary Capers (1545 W. 3rd, 604-875-0123)

Bank/Credit Union

1. Vancity

2. Royal Bank of Canada (RBC)

3. Bank of Montreal (BMO)

Funeral Home

1. Kearney Funeral Services (450 W. 2nd Ave, 604-736-0268)

2. Mount Pleasant Universal Funeral Home (306 E. 11th, 604-876-2161)

3. Amherst Funeral and Cremation Services (1209-207 W. Hastings, 604-831-3023)

Car Share

1. Car2Go (1-855-454-1002)

2. Modo The Car Co-op (604-685-1393)

3. Zipcar (1-866-494-7227)

Auto Detailing

1. Platinum Touch Auto Spa (tie) (1696 W. 5th, 604-736-8636)

1. World Class Auto Care (tie) (1022 Seymour, 604-739-3444)

2. Ultra Shine Hand Car Wash and Auto Detailing (160 E. 2nd, 604-558-3998)

3. Kingsway Auto Detailing Centre (290 E. 5th, 604-872-1434)

Continuing Education

1. BCIT

2. VCC

3. UBC

Spa

1. Spa Utopia & Salon (1001-999 Canada Pl, 604-689-7700)

2. Absolute Spa Group (multiple locations)

3. Elements Wellness Centre (207-2678 W. Broadway, 604-732-9355)

Naturopath

1. Dr. Briana Peddle (207-2678 W. Broadway, 604-732-9355)

2. Dr. Dharm Sidhu (2657 Commercial, 604-428-1399)

3. Dr. Heidi Rootes (tie) (827 Hamilton, 604-687-7678)

3. Dr. Alexina Mehta (tie) (215-2211 West 4th, 604-731-7789)

Massage Therapist

1. Theron White RMT (202-865 Hornby, 604-684-0554)

2. Stephen Jay RMT (tie) (100-289 Abbott, 604-689-1331; 306-560 Beatty, 604-569-3891)

2. Nicole Van Damme non-RMT (tie) (60-1687 W. Broadway, 778 -785-0969)

3. Randall Friedman RMT (212-2475 Bayswater, 604-873-4161)

CrossFit Gym

1. CrossFit 604 (154 W Hastings, 604-899-9443)

2. CrossFit Kitsilano (1370 W. 4th, 604-558-3488)

3. Studeo55 (202-865 Hornby, 604-684-0544)

Sporting Goods

1. Mountain Equipment Co-op (130 W. Broadway, 604-872-7858)

2. Sport Chek (multiple locations)

3. All-Court Stringing (1217 Nanaimo, 778-835-0672)

Board & Ski Shop

1. Comor Sports (1980 Burrard, 604-736-7547)

2. The Boardroom (1745 W. 4th, 604-734-7669)

3. Sport Chek (multiple locations)

Chiropractor

1. Dr. Harold Meinzer (2184 W. Broadway, 604-742-0111)

2. Dr. Randall Trester (3-1864 W. 1st, 604-736-8353)

3. Dr. Christian Guenette (450-2184 W. Broadway, 604-742-0111)

Acupuncturist

1. Kiran Manhas Elements Wellness Centre (207-2678 W. Broadway, 604-732-9355)

2. Dr. Eyal Lebel (408-2150 W. Broadway, 604-761-9434)

3. Kelli Taylor Elements Wellness Centre (207-2678 W. Broadway, 604-732-9355)

Cosmetics Retailer

1. Sephora (701 W. Georgia, 778-331-3942)

2. MAC Cosmetics (multiple locations)

3. MASC (433 Davie, 604-688-4555)

Skincare Facility

1. MASC (433 Davie, 604-688-4555)

2. Skoah (multiple locations)

3. Optaderm (tie) (340-2184 W. Broadway, 604-737-2026)

3. Project Skin MD (tie) (1495 W. 11th, 604-732-0800)

Lash Bar

1. Noir Lash Lounge (multiple locations)

2. W Lash Beautique (formerly Wink) (67 E Cordova, 604-696-9465)

3. Kats Spa Services (2695 W. 4th, 778-788-4767)

Brow Bar

1. Bombay Brow Bar (1056 Mainland, 604-683-2769)

2. Dona Lucia Esthetics Salon (521 W.Georgia, 604-566-9112)

3. Blink (577 Bute, 604-428-2769)

Laser Hair Removal

1. Arbutus Laser Centre (1062025 W. Broadway, 604-731-5512)

2. Elegance Medi-Spa (2692 W. 4th, 604-336-4339)

3. Dermal Laser (tie) (803 Davie, 604-684-0254)

3. Yaletown Laser (tie) (1010 Mainland, 604-331-1777)

Laser Eye Centre

1. London Eye Centre (918 12th, New Westminster, 604-526-2020)

2. Pacific Laser Eye (1401 W. Broadway, 604-736-2625)

3. Coal Harbour Eye Centre (tie) (1177 W. Hastings, 604-682-4900)

3. Lasik MD (tie) (101-1281 W. Georgia, 604-639-8088)

Botox Clinic

1. Vancouver Laser & Skin Care (750 W. Broadway, 604-708-9891)

2. Medical Rejuvenation Centre (7011281 W. Georgia, 604-763-7546)

3. Project Skin MD (1495 W. 11th, 604-732-0800)

Cosmetic Surgery

1. Medical Rejuvenation Centre (701-1281 W. Georgia, 604-763-7546)

2. Dr. Denton (202-943 W. Broadway, 604-879-3223)

3. Fairview Plastic Surgery (tie) (480-999 W. Broadway, 604-734-1416)

3. Skinworks (tie) (3568 W. 41st, 604-737-7100)

Pub

1. The Cove (3681 W. 4th, 604-734-1205)

2. Pourhouse (162 Water, 604-568-7022)

3. The Fountainhead (1025 Davie, 604-687-2222)

Nightclub

1. Celebrities (1022 Davie, 604-681-6180)

2. The Roxy (932 Granville, 604-331-7999)

3. Ginger 62 (1219 Granville, 604-688-5494)

Live Music Venue

1. Commodore Ballroom (868 Granville, 604-739-4550)

2. Orpheum (601 Smithe, 604-665-3050)

3. Biltmore Cabaret (2755 Prince Edward, 604-676-0541)

Gay Bar

1. Celebrities (1022 Davie, 604-681-6180)

2. Oasis Ultra Lounge (1240 Thurlow, 604-685-1724)

3. 1181 (1181 Davie, 604-787-7130)

Comedy Club

1. Yuk Yuks (2837 Cambie, 604-696-9857)

2. The Comedy Mix (1015 Burrard, 604-684-5050)

3. Vancouver TheatreSports (1502 Duranleau, 604-738-7013, Granville Island)

Comedian/Comedy Troupe

1. Vancouver TheatreSports (1502 Duranleau, 604-738-7013, Granville Island)

2. Graham Clark (Laugh Gallery Monday nights at Havana, 1212 Commercial)

3. Instant Theatre Company (650A E. Broadway, 604-727-3286)

Hidden Gem

1. Button Button (318 Homer, 604-687-0067)

2. Parliament Interiors (115 Water, 604-689-0800)

3. Dr. Sun Yat Sen Garden (578 Carrall, 604-662-3207)

Local Business Person

1. Mark Brand (Save On Meats)

2. Patrick Levesque (MASC)

3. James Coleridge (Bella Gelateria)

Womens Apparel

1. Malene Grotrian (207 W. Hastings, 604-568-0666)

2. Oak and Fort (tie) (32 Water, 604-566-9199)

2. Secret Location (tie) (1 Water, 604-685-0090)

3. Dream (311 W. Cordova, 604-683-7326)

Mens Apparel

1. Brooklyn Clothing Co. (418 Davie, 604-683-2929)

2. Harry Rosen (700 W. Georgia, 604- 683-6861; 650 W. 41st, 604-266-1172)

3. Roden Gray (8 Water, 604-689-7302)

Vintage Clothing

1. Community Thrift and Vintage (41 W. Cordova, 604- 682-1004)

2. My Sisters Closet (1092 Seymour, 604-687-0770)

3. Vous Valet (1241 Hamilton, 604-558-4228)

Unique Gifts

1. The Cross (1198 Homer, 604-689-2900)

2. Old Faithful (320 W. Cordova, 778-327-9376)

3. Fine Finds Boutique (1014 Mainland, 604-669-8325)

Kids Store/Apparel

1. Parade (231 Cambie, 604-687-7163)

2. Ella and Elliot (126 W. Hastings, 604-563-1845)

3. Army and Navy (36 W. Cordova, 604-682-6644)

Home Décor

1. The Cross (1198 Homer, 604-689-2900)

2. Parliament (115 Water, 604-689-0800)

3. Chintz & Co (tie) (950 Homer, 604-689-2022)

3. Inform Interiors (tie) (50 Water, 604-682-3868)

Organic Produce

1. Choices Market (multiple locations)

2. Urban Fare (multiple locations)

3. Nesters Market (multiple locations)

Local Grocer

1. Choices Market (multiple locations)

2. Urban Fare (multiple locations)

3. Nesters Market (multiple locations)

Local Butcher

1. Big Lous (269 Powell, 604-566-9229)

2. Save On Meats (43 W. Hastings, 604-569-3568)

Ethnic Food Store

1. H-Mart (200-590 Robson, 604-609-4567)

2. T & T (100-2800 E. 1st, 604 254-9668 & 179 Keefer, 604-899-8836)

Bakery

1. Ganache Patisserie (1262 Homer, 604-899-1098)

2. Cadeaux Bakery (172 Powell, 604-608-8889)

3. New Town Bakery (158 E. Pender, 604-681-1828)

Ice Cream/Gelato Shop

1. Bella Gelateria (1001 W. Cordova, 604-569-1010)

2. Yaletown Gelato (122-1208 Homer, 604-689-8531)

3. Whats Shaken (586 Davie, 604-559-8813)

Neighbourhood Restaurant

1. Good Wolfe (1043 Mainland, 604-428-1043)

2. The Flying Pig (1168 Hamilton, 604-568-1344)

3. Yaletown LAntipasto (1127 Mainland, 604-558-1174)

Burgers

1. Romers (multiple locations)

2. Fat Burger (multiple locations)

3. Loving Hut (Pacific and Davie, 604-780-1029)

Pizza

1. Nicli Antica Pizzeria (62 E. Cordova, 604-669-6985)

2. Goldies Pizza (605 W. Pender, 604-681-0650)

3. The Parlour (1011 Hamilton, 604-568-3322)

Vegetarian

1. Gorilla Food (436 Richards, 604- 684-3663)

2. The Parker (237 Union, 604-779-3804)

3. Loving Hut (tie) (Pacific and Davie, 604-780-1029)

3. Panz Veggie (tie) (1355 Hornby, 604- 266-3637)

Breakfast

1. Café Medina (556 Beatty, 604-879-3114)

2. Elbow Room Cafe (560 Davie, 604-685-3628)

3. The Templeton (1087 Granville, 604-685-4612)

Brunch

1. Café Medina (556 Beatty, 604-879-3114)

2. Alibi Room (tie) (157 Alexander, 604-623-3383)

2. Twisted Fork (tie) (1147 Granville, 604-568-0749)

3. Provence (1177 Marinaside, 604-681-4144)

Weekday Lunch

1. Meat and Bread (370 Cambie & 1033 W. Pender, 604-566-9003)

2. Good Wolfe (1043 Mainland, 604-428-1043)

3. Finchs (353 W. Pender, 604- 899-4040)

Dinner

1. LAbbatoir (217 Carrall, 604-568-1701)

2. Rodneys Oyster House (1228 Hamilton, 604-609-0080; 52 Powell, 604-685-2005)

3. Chambar (tie) (562 Beatty, 604-879-7119)

3. Blue Water Café (tie) (1095 Hamilton, 604- 688-8078)

Dessert

1. Ganache Patisserie (1262 Homer, 604-899-1098)

2. Mink Chocolates Café (863 W. Hastings, 604-633-2451)

3. Cartems Donuterie (534 W. Pender, 778-708-0996)

Date Night Spot

1. LAbattoir (217 Carrall, 604-568-1701)

2. Cibo Trattoria (tie) (900 Seymour, 604-602-9570)

2. Chambar (tie) (562 Beatty, 604-879-7119)

3. Jules Bistro (216 Abbott, 604-669-0033)

Coffee Shop

1. JJ Bean (multiple locations)

2. Revolver (325 Cambie, 604-558-4444)

3. Café Artigiano (multiple locations)

Late Night Dining

1. Tsu Hang Village (1193 Granville, 604-683-6868)

2. Charles Bar (tie) (136 W. Cordova, 604-568-8040)

2. Calabash Bistro (tie) (428 Carrall, 604-568-5882)

3. Revel Room (tie) (238 Abbott, 604-687-4088)

3. Fritz European Fry House (tie) (718 Davie, 604-684-0811)

Pub/Bar

1. The Irish Heather (212 Carrall, 604-688-9779)

2. Yaletown Brewing Company (1111 Mainland, 604-681-2739)

3. The Blackbird (tie) (905 Dunsmuir, 604-899-4456)

3. The Pint (tie) (455 Abbott, 604-684-0258)

Lounge

1. The Diamond (6 Powell, 604-568-8272)

2. Opus Bar (tie) (322 Davie, 604-642-6787)

2. Reflections (tie) (Rosewood Hotel Georgia 801 W. Georgia, 604-682-5566)

3. Chill Winston (tie) (3 Alexander, 604-288-9575)

3. Sip (tie) (1117 Granville, 604-687-7474)

Beer/Wine Store

1. Crosstown Liquor Store (568 Abbott, 604-683-8438)

2. Viti Wine and Lager Store (900 Seymour, 604-683-3806)

3. Yaletown Liquor Store (1116 Hamilton, 604-688-0064)

3. Steamworks (375 Water, 604-689-2739)

Travel agency

1. Flight Centre (multiple locations)

2. Expedia CruiseShipCenters (101-950 W. Broadway, 604-566-9005)

3. Nikko Tours & Travel (512 Beatty, 604-656-2108)

Bikes

1. Reckless Bike Store (110 Davie, 604-648-2600; 1810 Fir, 604-731-2420

2. Simons Bike Shop (608 Robson, 604-602-1181)

3. JV Bike (929 Expo, 604-630-3798)

Green Business

1. Growing City (108 W. Cordova, 1-855-932-6676)

2. Gorilla Foods (436 Richards, 604-684-3663)

3. WA-2! Premium Water (1795 Powell, 1-877-689-4009)

Pet Supplies

1. Van Pet (1065 Hamilton, 604-687-8933)

2. Barking Babies (1188 Homer, 604-647-2275)

3. Wagababa (88 Keefer, 604-628-2458)

Tailor

1. Modernize Tailor (5 W. Pender, 604-685-0610)

2. Townline Tailors (541 Howe, 604-684-6105)

3. Karman Tailors (288 Robson, 604-662-8208)

Cobbler

1. Marcos Italian Shoe Doctor (International Village Mall, 88 W. Pender, 604-435-3522)

2. Robson Shoe Repair (292 Robson, 604-685-5413)

3. Moneys Worth and Best (777 Dunsmuir, 604-408-9188)

Dry Cleaner

1. Yaletown Dry Cleaners (1235 Pacific, 604-899-1276)

2. Swan Laundry (1352 Burrard, 604-684-0323)

3. Moneys Drycleaning (585 Helmcken, 604-687-7408)

Dental Clinic

1. Aarm Dental Group (multiple locations)

2. Zenon Trylowsky (1216-736 Granville, 604-681-8711)

3. Enamel (1-1026 Mainland, 604-633-1199)

Florist

1. Greenstems (315 Abbott, 604-568-1314)

2. Olla Flowers (235 Cambie, 604-609-6552)

3. Heathers The Flowershop (422 W. Cordova, 604-603 4995)

Hair Salon

1. Moods Hair Salon (1070 Mainland, 604-688-1574)

2. Pink Lime Salon & Spa (1018 Mainland, 604-683-7444)

3. Bangtown Hair Saloon (tie) (438 W. Pender, 604-682-7775)

3. Storm Salon (tie) (77 E. Pender, 604-689-0082)

Nail Salon

1. Absolute Spa (1015 Burrard, 604-684-2772)

2. Posy Nail Salon (1001-999 Canada Pl, 604-689-7700)

3. Pure Nail Bar (multiple locations)

Tanning Salon

1. Urban Tanning Studio (518 Davie, 604-681-1699)

2. Cocoa Tanning Salon (88-1065 W. Pender, 604-568-6161; 1165 Pacific Blvd, 604-899-7989)

3. Absolute Spa (The Fairmont Hotel, W. Georgia, 604- 684-2772; 1015 Burrard St, 604-684-2772)

Eye Wear

1. Bruce Eyewear (219 Abbott, 604-662-8300)

2. Strozzis (1175 Mainland, 604-602-1880)

3. Blink Optometry (130 Davie, 604-669-7997)

Spa

1. Absolute Spa (1015 Burrard, 604-684-2772)

2. Float House (tie) (70 W. Cordova, 604-253-5628)

2. Spruce Body Lab (tie) (1128 Richards, 604-683-3220)

3. Pink Lime Salon & Spa (tie) (1018 Mainland, 604-683-7444)

3. Spa Utopia & Salon (tie) (1001- 999 Canada Pl, 604-689-7700)

Yoga Studio

1. YYoga (multiple locations)

2. One Yoga (201-150 W. Hastings, 604-710-7267)

3. Inner Space (100-289 Abbott, 604-689-1331)

Fitness Facility

1. Symmetrix (1238 Seymour, 604-682-6765)

2. Steve Nash Fitness (299-555 W. 12th, 604-876-1009)

3. CrossFit 604 (154 W. Hastings, 604-899-9443)

Hidden Gem

1. Tacofino Commissary (2327 E. Hastings, 604-253-8226)

2. Le Marche St. George (4393 St. George, 604-565-5107)

3. Fairy Cakes (3586 Fraser, 604-442-9866)

Local Business Person

1. Cameron Forsyth (Portland Craft, Main Street Brewery)

2. David Duprey (Rumpus Room, Fox Cabaret)

3. Nigel Pike (Cascade Room, Main Street Brewery)

Womens Apparel

1. Barefoot Contessa (3715 Main, 604-879-1137)

2. Twigg&Hottie (3671 Main, 604-879-8595)

3. Smoking Lily (3634 Main, 604-873-5459)

Mens Apparel

1. Eugene Choo (3683 Main, 604-873-8874)

2. Motherland (466 W. Cordova, 604-681-0780; 3647 Main, 604-568-7530)

3. Exhibit (2601 Main, 604-568-2915)

Vintage Clothing

1. Front & Company (3772 Main, 604-879-8431)

2. Mintage (1714 Commercial, 604-646-8243)

3. Little Miss Vintage (tie) (941 Commercial, 604-255-3554)

3. Burcus Angels (tie) (221 E. 16th, 604-874-1030)

Unique Gifts

1. Front & Company (3772 Main, 604-879-8431)

2. Nineteen Ten (4366 Main, 604-558-0210)

3. Bird on a Wire (2535 Main, 604-873-7415)

Kids store/Apparel

1. The Granville Island Toy Company (3298 Main, 604-875-0065; 11-1496 Cartwright, Kids Market, 604-684-0076)

2. Dilly Dally (1161 Commercial, 604-252-9727)

3. Beansprouts (tie) (4305 Main, 604-871-9782)

3. Dandelion Kids (tie) (1206 Commercial, 604-676-1862)

Home Décor

1. Exposure Home (tie) (1616 Commercial, 604-253-5808)

1. Vancouver Special (tie) (3612 Main, 604-568-3673)

2. Moes Home (1728 Glen, 604-687-5599)

3. Dream Designs (956 Commercial, 604-254-5012)

Organic Produce

1. Donalds Market (multiple locations)

2. Organic Acres (3603 Main, 604-569-1132)

3. Famous Foods (1595 Kingsway, 604-872-3019)

Local Grocer

1. Donalds Market (multiple locations)

2. East West Market (4169 Main, 604-873-8082)

3. East End Food Co-op (tie) (1034 Commercial, 604-254-5044)

3. Santa Barbara (tie) (1322 Commercial, 604-253-1941)

Local Butcher

1. Windsor Quality Meats (4110 Main, 604-872-5635)

2. Rio Friendly Meats (2477 E. Hastings, 604-253-0345)

3. Pasture to Plate (tie) (1420 Commercial, 604-215-0050)

3. Harkness & Co. Butchers (666 E. Broadway, 604-558-3807)

Ethnic Food Store

1. T & T (tie) (100-2800 E. 1st, 604-254-9668; 179 Keefer, 604-254-9668)

1. Yek O Yek (tie) (3046 Main, 604-877-0139)

2. Bosa Foods (tie) (1465 Kootney, 604-253-5578)

2. Fujiya (tie) (multiple locations)

3. Sweet Cherubim (1105 Commercial, 604-253-0969)

Bakery

1. Fratelli Bakery (1795 Commercial, 604-255-8926)

2. Uprising Breads Bakery (tie) (1697 Venables, 604-254-5635)

2. Liberty Bakery (tie) (3699 Main, 604-709-9999)

3. Black Rook Bakehouse (tie) (2141 E. Hastings, 604-563-5094)

3. Breka Bakery & Cafe (tie) (6533 Fraser, 604-325-6612)

Ice Cream/Gelato Shop

1. Earnest Ice Cream (3992 Fraser, 604-428-0697)

2. La Casa Gelato (1033 Venables, 604-251-3211)

3. Dolce Amore (1590 Commercial, 604-258-0006)

Seafood Shop

1. The Fish Counter (3825 Main, 604-876-3474)

2. Daily Catch (1418 Commercial, 604-253-3474)

3. T & T (100-2800 E. 1st, 604-254-9668; 179 Keefer, 604-254-9668)

Cheese Shop

1. La Grotta Del Formaggio (1791 Commercial, 604-255-3911)

2. Les Amis De Fromage (1752 W. 2nd, 604-732-4218)

3. Santa Barbara (1322 Commercial, 604-253-1941)

Neighbourhood Restaurant

1. Havana (1212 Commercial, 604-253-9119)

2. Burgoo (tie) (multiple locations)

2. The Cascade Room (tie) (2616 Main, 604-709-8650)

3. Little Nest (1716 Charles, 604-251-9994)

Burger

1. Veras Burger Shack (multiple locations)

2. Splitz Grill (4242 Main, 604-875-9711)

3. Cannibal Cafe (tie) (1818 Commercial, 604-558-4199)

3. White Spot (tie) (multiple locations)

Pizza

1. Via Tevere (1190 Victoria, 604-336-1803)

2. Famoso (1380 Commercial, 604-251-2292)

3. Rocky Mountain Flatbread (4186 Main, 604-566-9779; 1876 W. 1st Ave, 604-730-0321)

Vegetarian

1. The Acorn (3995 Main, 604-566-9001)

2. The Foundation (2301 Main, 604-708-0881)

3. Bandidas Taqueria (tie) (2781 Commercial, 604-568-8224)

3. Graze (tie) (3980 Fraser, 604-620-8822)

Breakfast

1. Slickity Jims Chat n Chew (3475 Main, 604-873-6760)

2. Red Wagon (2296 E. Hastings, 604-568-4565)

3. Lucys Eastside Diner (2708 Main, 604-568-1550)

Brunch

1. Red Wagon (2296 E. Hastings, 604-568-4565)

2. The Wall Flower (2420 Main, 604-568-7554)

3. Graze (tie) ( 3980 Fraser, 604-620-8822)

3. Roundel Cafe (tie) (2465 E. Hastings, 604-253-2522)

Weekday Lunch

1. Hawkers Delight (4127 Main, 604-709-8188)

2. The Reef (4172 Main, 604-874-5375; 1018 Commercial, 604-568-5375)

3. Budgies Burritos (44 Kingsway, 604-874-5408)

Dinner

1. Le Faux Bourgeois (663 E. 15th, 604-873-9733)

2. Grub (tie) (4328 Main, 604-876-8671

2. Merchants Oyster Bar (tie) (1590 Commercial, 604-258-0005)

3. El Caminos (3250 Main, 604-875-6246)

Dessert

1. Sweet Revenge (4160 Main, 604-879-7933)

2. The Gluten Free Epicurean (633 E. 15th, 604-876-4114)

3. Trumps (646 Powell, 604-732-8473)

Date Night Spot

1. Campagnolo (1020 Main, 604-484-6018)

2. Cascade (2616 Main, 604-709-8650)

3. Via Tevere (1190 Victoria, 604-336-1803)

Coffee Shop

1. JJ Bean (multiple locations)

2. Matchstick (639 E. 15th, 604-558-0639)

3. Forty Ninth Parallel (2902 Main; 2198 West 4th, 604-420-4900)

Late Night Dining

1. Lucys Eastside Diner (2708 Main, 604-568-1550)

2. The Whip (tie) (209 E. 6th, 604-874-4687)

2. Falconettis East Side Grill (tie) (1812 Commercial, 604- 251-7287)

3. Narrow Lounge (1898 Main, 778-737-5206)

Pub/Bar

1. Portland Craft (3835 Main, 604-569-2494)

2. BierCraft (tie) (1191 Commercial, 604-254-2437; 3305 Cambie, 604-874-6900)

2. Cascade (tie) (2616 Main, 604-709-8650)

3. Charlatan (tie) (1447 Commercial, 604-253-2777)

3. Storm Crow Tavern (tie) (1305 Commercial, 604-566-9669)

Microbrewery

1. Parallel 49 Brewing Co. (1946 Triumph, 604-558-2739)

2. Brassneck Brewery (2148 Main, 604-259-7686)

3. 33 Acres (15 W. 8th, 604-620-4589)

Beer/Wine Store

1. Brewery Creek (3045 Main, 604-872-3373)

2. Tobys (2733 Commercial, 604-879-2066)

3. Liberty Wine Merchants (multiple locations)

Travel Agency

1. Flight Centre (multiple locations)

2. Rainbow Travel (150 E. Broadway, 604-872-2627)

3. Tian Bao (309-4538 Kingsway, 604-433-6133; 103-7900 Westminster Hwy, 604- 273-6133)

Bikes

1. Our Community Bikes (3283 Main, 604-879-2453)

2. Ride On (3463 Main, 604-738-7734; 2255 W. Broadway, 604-736-7433)

3. Bikes on the Drive (1350 Commercial, 604-215-7433)

Green Business

1. The Soap Dispensary (3623 Main, 604-568-3141)

2. Without A Trace Cleaning (3324 E. 6th, 604-354-6388)

3. MattressRecycling.ca (8275 Sherbrooke, 604-973-0183)

Pet Supplies

1. Tisol Pet Nutrition & Supply Stores (multiple locations)

2. Mr. Pets (1710 Commercial, 604-872-0115)

3. Sophies Pet Palace (1280 Commercial, 604-255-1211)

Hardware Store

1. Home Hardware (multiple locations)

2. Welks General Store (3511 Main, 604-873-3330)

3. Vancouver Tool Library (3448 Commercial St., 604-568-8071)

Auto Repair

1. Automind (268 E. 10th, 604-875-6666)

2. Main Street Automotive (4835 Main, 604-879-5595)

Tailor

1. Angelo Tailors (1501 Commercial, 604-253-7633)

2. Susans Alterations (3657 Main, 604-873-9555)

3. A & R Alterations (Mn-230 E.11th, 604-874-8857)

Cobbler

1. Both Feet On Main (4410 Main, 604-872-1318)

2. Quick Cobbler (430 W. 2nd, 604-682-6354)

3. East Van Shoe Repair (60 E. Hastings, 778-807-5942)

Dry Cleaner

1. Shirtland (746 Powell, 604-254-4415)

2. Busy Bee Cleaners (1519 Commercial, 604-254-8010)

3. Launder All Coin Laundry (2706 Main, 604-873-3888)

Dental Clinic

1. Mercato Dental Centre (1617 Commercial, 604-254-5900)

2. HighGate Dental (210-7155 Kingsway, 604-526-1122)

3. Care Dental (1437 Cedar Cottage Mews, 604-568-2901)

Florist

1. Flower Factory (3604 Main, 604-871-1008)

2. The Flowerbox (1319 Commercial, 604-254-3269)

3. Blumen Floral (438 W. 8th, 604-708-0882)

Hair Salon

1. Trim (2-3851 Main, 604-876-2118)

2. East Vanity Parlour (tie) (2408 Main, 604-637-1122)

2. Barbarella Hair Salon (tie) (3277 Main, 604-876-1414)

3. Jeffersons Barbershop (1949 Commercial, 604-251-1137)

Nail Salon

1. Gloss Hair Salon & Nail Bar (3149 Granville, 604-732-8282)

2. Main Nail Studio (4405 Main, 604-568-4410)

3. Sun Moon Nails (167 E. 12th, 604-558-4499)

Tanning Salon

1. Banana Tans (148 E. Broadway, 604-872-8267; 1060 Davie, 604-331-8267)

2. Solaris Sun Lounge (1740 Commercial, 604-215-2792)

Eyewear

1. Bruce Eyewear (219 Abbott, 604-662-8300)

2. Hakim Optical (multiple locations)

3. Mount Pleasant Optometry (tie) (104 E. Broadway, 604-874-7302)

3. Image Optometry (tie) (multiple locations, 604-310-3937)

Yoga Studio

1. Open Door Yoga (multiple locations)

2. Bikram (multiple locations)

3. Moksha Yoga East Vancouver (2560 E. 15th, 604-569-3300)

Fitness Facility

1. Latin Fitness Ztudio (5595 Kingsway, 778-995-9426)

2. Spartacus Gym (1522 Commercial, 604-254-6267)

Hidden Gem

1. Salade de Fruits Café (1551 W. 7th, 604-714-5987)

2. Culprit Coffee Company (2028 Vine, 604-730-0133)

3. Ethels Boutique (2346 W. 4th, 604-736-0910)

Womens Apparel

1. Nicole Bridger (2151 W. 4th, 604-730-1129)

2. Anthropologie (tie) (2912 Granville, 604-734-2529)

2. Plenty (tie) (1107 Robson, 604-689-4478; 2803 W. Broadway, 604-736-4484)

3. Gravity Pope (tie) (2205 W. 4th, 604-731-7673)

3. Spank (tie) (multiple locations)

Mens Apparel

1. Harry Rosen (650 W. 41st, 604-266-1172; 700 W. Georgia, 604-683-6861)

2. Ray Rickburn Fine Mens Apparel (2100 W. 4th, 604-738-9177)

3. Hills Of Kerrisdale (2125 W. 41st, 604-266-9177)

Vintage Clothing

1. In Again (1962 W. 4th, 604-738-2782)

2. Second Suit For Men and Women (tie) (2036 W. 4th, 604-732-0338)

2. Dragon and Phoenix (tie) (3510 W 41st, 604-261-1317)

3. Immersion Clothing (2846 W. Broadway, 604-739-7633)

Unique Gifts

1. Walrus (3408 Cambie, 604-874-9770)

2. Briers Home & Gift (2070 W. 4th, 604-730-0379; 2025 W. 4th, 604-738-0379)

3. Oh My Gift (2235 W. 4th, 604-733-0008)

Kids Store/Apparel

1. Kidsbooks (3083 W. Broadway, 604-738-5335)

2. Hip Baby (2110 W. 4th, 604-736-8020)

3. Kaboodles (multiple locations)

Home Décor

1. Briers Home & Gift (2070 W. 4th, 604-730-0379; 2025 W. 4th, 604-738-0379)

2. West Elm Market (tie) (2915 Granville, 604-734-9302)

2. Restoration Hardware (tie) (2555 Granville, 604-731-3918)

3. Meuse Boutique (207 Abbott, 604-558-0712)

Organic Produce

1. Whole Foods (multiple locations)

2. Choices (multiple locations)

3. Greens Organic and Natural Market (1978 W. Broadway, 604-568-3079)

Local Grocer

1. Choices Market (tie) (multiple locations)

1. Whole Foods (tie) (multiple locations)

2. Stongs Market (4560 Dunbar, 604-266-1401)

3. Greens Organic and Natural Market (1978 W. Broadway, 604-568-3079)

Local Butcher

1. Jacksons Meat and Deli (2214 W. 4th, 604-738-6328)

2. Market Meats (2326 W. 4th, 604-737-0905)

3. Petes Meat (2817 Arbutus, 604-730-1661)

Ethnic Foods Store

1. Parthenon Supermarket (3080 W. Broadway, 604-733-4191)

2. African Breese Imports (3654 W. 4th, 604-620-5435)

3. Persia Foods (2827 W. Broadway, 604-558-4866)

Bakery

1. Beaucoup (2150 Fir, 604-732-4222)

2. Terra Breads (2380 W. 4th, 604-736-1838)

3. Lemonade Gluten Free Bakery (tie) (3385 Cambie, 604-873-9993)

3. Edible Flours (tie) (2280 W. Broadway, 604-734-8351)

Ice Cream/Gelato Shop

1. Marios Gelati (78 E. 1st, 604-879-9411)

2. Rain or Shine Ice Cream (tie) (102-1926 W. 4th Ave, 604-428-7246)

2. DQ (tie) (multiple locations)

3. Menchies (multiple locations)

Seafood shop

1. 7 Seas (2328 W. 4th, 604-732-8608)

2. Finest at Sea (4675 Arbutus, 604-266-1904; 1805 Mast Tower, Granville Island, 604-684-4114)

3. Seafood City (tie) (1689 Johnston, Granville Island, 604-688-1818)

3. The Lobster Man (tie) (807 Mast Tower, Granville Island, 604-687-4228)

Cheese Shop

1. Les Amis du Fromage (1752 W. 2nd, 604-732-4218; 843 E. Hastings, 604-253-4218)

2. Benton Brothers Fine Cheese (multiple locations)

3. Pane E Fromaggio (4532 W. 10th, 604-224-1623)

Neighbourhood Restaurant

1. The Naam (2724 W. 4th, 604-738-7151)

2. Rocky Mountain Flatbread (1876 W. 1st, 604-730-0321; 4186 Main, 604-566-9779)

3. Burgoo Bistro (multiple locations)

Burgers

1. Veras Burger Shack (multiple locations)

2. Romers (1873 W. 4th, 604-732-9545; 1039 Mainland, 604-559-7210)

3. Modern Burger (tie) (2507 W. Broadway, 604-739-0005)

3. White Spot (tie) (multiple locations)

Pizza

1. Rocky Mountain Flatbread (tie) (1876 W. 1st, 604-730-0321; 4186 Main, 604-566-9779)

1. Nats New York Pizzeria (tie) (2684 W. Broadway, 604-737-0707; 1080 Denman, 604-642-0777)

2. Martinis Restaurant (151 W. Broadway, 604-873-0021)

3. The Bibo (1835 W. 4th, 604-568-6177)

Vegetarian

1. The Naam (2724 W. 4th, 604-738-7151)

2. Heirloom (1509 W. 12th, 604-733-2231)

3. Dharma Kitchen (3667 W. Broadway, 604-738-3899)

Breakfast

1. Sophies Cosmic Café (2095 W. 4th, 604-732-6810)

2. Jethros Fine Grub (3420 Dunbar, 604-569-3441; 3455 Fraser, 604-620-5292)

3. Sunshine Diner (2649 W. Broadway, 604-733-7717)

Brunch

1. Sophies Cosmic Café (2095 W. 4th, 604-732-6810)

2. Aphrodites Organic Café & Pie Shop (3598 W. 4th, 604-738-5879)

3. Fable (1944 W. 4th, 604-732-1322)

Weekday Lunch

1. Tractor Foods (1903 W. 4th, 604-222-2557)

2. Burgoo Bistro (tie) (multiple locations)

2. Earls (tie) (multiple locations)

3. Edible Canada (1596 Johnston, Granville Island, 604-682-6681)

Dinner

1. Fable (1944 W. 4th, 604-732-1322)

2. Earls (tie) (multiple locations)

2. Vijs (tie) (1480 W. 11th, 604-736-6664)

3. Bishops (tie) (2183 W. 4th, 604-738-2025)

3. East is East (tie) (3243 W. Broadway, 604-734-5881)

Dessert

1. True Confections (3701 W. Broadway, 604-222-8489)

2. Thomas Haas (tie) (2539 W. Broadway, 604-736-1848)

2. Sweet Obsession (tie) (2611 W. 16th, 604-739-0565)

3. Edible Flours (2280 W. Broadway, 604-734-8351)

Date Night Spot

1. Bishops (2183 W. 4th, 604-738-2025)

2. Café Regalade (2836 W. 4th, 604-733-2213)

3. Oakwood Canadian Bistro (tie) (2741 W. 4th, 604-558-1965)

3. Kits Daily Kitchen (tie) (1809 W. 1st, 604-569-2741)

Coffee Shop

1. Starbucks (multiple locations)

2. Tim Hortons (multiple locations)

3. Wicked Café (1399 W. 7th, 604-733-9425)

Late Night Dining

1. The Naam (2724 W. 4th, 604-738-7151)

2. Abigails Party (1651-1699 Yew, 604-739-4677)

3. Local Public Eatery (2210 Cornwall, 604-734-3589)

Pub/Bar

1. The Bimini (2010 W. 4th, 604-733-7116)

2. Local Public Eatery (2210 Cornwall, 604-734-3589)

3. Coppertank Grill (3135 W. Broadway, 604-731-6565)

Beer/Wine Store

1. Legacy Liquor Store (1633 Manitoba, 604-331-7900)

2. Firefly Fine Wines and Ales (2857 Cambie, 604-875-3325)

3. Biminis Liquor Store (2018 4thW, 604-738-2714)

Travel Agency

1. Flight Centre (multiple locations)

2. Expedia Cruiseship Centres (multiple locations)

3. Travel Masters (1604-1166 Alberni, 604-568-3944)

Bikes

1. Ride On Again (tie) (2255 W. Broadway, 604-736-7433; 3463 Main, 604-738-7734)

1. Ace Cycles (tie) (3155 W. Broadway, 604-738-9818)

2. Dizzy Cycles (1856 W. 4th, 604-739-6848)

3. Reckless (tie) (110 Davie, 604- 648-2600; 1810 Fir St, 604-731-2420)

3. Different Bikes (tie) (1421 W. Broadway, 604-737-2344)

Pet Supplies

1. Tisol Pet Nutrition & Supply Stores (multiple locations)

2. Bosleys by Pet Valu (multiple locations)

3. Woof! Dog Shoppe (1905 W. 1st, 604-568-4212)

Hardware Store

1. Canadian Tire (multiple locations)

2. Home Hardware (multiple locations)

3. Gandys Home Hardware (tie) (2262 W. 4th, 604-733-8014)

3. Kerrisdale Lumber (tie) (6191 W. Blvd, 604-261-4274)

Auto Repair

1. Pawlik Automotive Repair (30-966 SW Marine, 604-327-7112)

2. Minit-Tune (multiple locations)

3. Varsity Automotive (2880 Arbutus, 604-736-8494)

Tailor

1. Kerrisdale Tailors (2082 W. 41st, 604-266-6422)

2. Oakridge Tailors (5534 Cambie, 604-325-0545)

3. Threads Fashion Alterations (3170 Cambie, 604-708-4689)

Cobbler

1. Quick Cobbler (430 W. 2nd, 604-682-6354)

2. Davids Shoe and Leather Repair (2712 W. 4th)

3. Varsity Shoe Repair (4519 W. 10th, 604-224-3615)

Dry Cleaner

1. Tuesdays (2396 W. 4th, 604-733-4613)

2. Fletchers Fabricare (2096 W. Broadway, 604-731-9313)

3. Village Cleaners (tie) (1637 Manitoba, 604-707-1111)

3. West Boulevard Cleaners (tie) (6174 E. Blvd, 604-261-0003)

Dental Clinic

1. La Vita Dental Care (2259 W. 4th, 604-256-1459)

2. Arbutus North Dental Centre (1926 W. 4th, 604-256-1455)

3. Kits Family Dental (209-2223 W. Broadway, 604-738-1816)

Florist

1. Blumen Floral Boutique (438 W. 8th, 604-708-0882)

2. Flowerz (2883 W. Broadway, 604-742-1000)

3. Garlands (2950 W. Broadway, 604-739-6688)

Hair Salon

1. Hype Hair Studio (2695 W. 4th, 604-732-4973)

2. Sukis (multiple locations)

3. Caramel Salon (tie) (2342 Granville, 604-731-5112)

3. Halo Salon (tie) (2771 Arbutus St, 604-730-1355)

Nail Salon

1. Sparkle Nail Salon (1228 W. Broadway, 604-739-9269)

2. Pure Nail Bar (tie) (multiple locations)

2. Kitsilanails (tie) (102-2065 W. 4th Ave, 604-739-7979)

3. Posh Digits (2026 Stephens, 604-736-6245)

Tanning Salon

1. Suntopia Tanning Studios (1915 W. 4th, 604-734-9467)

2. Fabutan Tanning Salon (2915 W. 4th, 604-734-0816)

3. Zen Sun Spa (tie) (2782 W. Broadway, 604-732-1444)

3. Kix Tanning Studio (tie) (2803 W. 16th, 604-737-1101)

Eyewear

1. Avenue Eyecare (2041 W. 41st, 604-558-1133)

2. Della Optique Optometry & Eyewear (tie) (2589 W. Broadway, 604-742-3937)

2. Spectus (tie) (2209 W. 4th Ave, 604-730-0503)

3. West 10th Eyes (4357 W. 10th, 604-224-2322)

Yoga Studio

1. YYoga (multiple locations)

2. Semperviva Yoga (multiple locations)

3. Bikram Yoga Vancouver (multiple locations)

Fitness Facility

1. Steve Nash Fitness (299-555 W. 12th, 604- 876-1009)

2. Ron Zalko Fitness (1807 W. 1st, 604-737-4355)

3. Ted Loo Fitness (555 W. 8th, 778-859-9348)

Hidden Gem

1. Tangos Gourmet Meats (865 Denman, 604-681-2121)

2. Eye Kandee Lingerie (1685 Davie, 604-559-7467)

3. Acacia Fillo Bar(1103 Denman, 604-633-3884)

Womens Apparel

1. Aritzia (multiple locations)

2. Plenty (1107 Robson, 604-689-4478; 2803 W. Broadway, 604-736-4484)

3. The Quick Nickel (1778 Davie St, 604-689-8910)

Mens Apparel

1. Boys Co (multiple locations)

2. State of Mind (1100 Davie, 604-682-7116)

3. Topdrawers Apparel (115-1030 Denman, 604-684-4861)

Unique Gifts

1. The Chocolate Mousse Kitchenware (1553 Robson, 604-682-8223)

2. Homewerx (1053 Davie, 604- 682-2204)

3. Little Sisters Book & Art Emporium (tie) (1238 Davie, 604-669-1753)

3. Room In Order (tie) (1055 Davie, 604-684-8884)

Home Décor

1. Homewerx (1053 Davie, 604- 682-2204)

2. CB2 (1277 Robson, 604-669-9797)

3. Room in Order (1055 Davie, 604-684-8884)

Organic Produce

1. Whole Foods (multiple locations)

2. Kins Farm Market (multiple locations)

3. Market Place IGA (multiple locations)

Local Grocer

1. Whole Foods (multiple locations)

2. West Valley Produce (1156 Bute, 604-669-5612)

3. Safeway (multiple locations)

Local Butcher

1. Tangos Gourmet Meats (865 Denman, 604-681-2121)

2. Robson Public Market (1610 Robson, 604-682-2733)

Ethnic Food Store

1. Ayoubs Dried Fruits and Nuts (W. 4th, 604- 558-2933; 986 Denman, 604-732-6887)

2. Aria Market (837 Bidwell, 604-569-1744)

3. Konbiniya Japan Centre (1238 Robson, 604-682-3634)

Bakery

1. Cobs (various locations)

2. Breka Bakery and Cafe (6533 Fraser, 604-325-6612; 818 Bute, 604-620-8200)

3. Terra Breads (multiple locations)

Ice Cream/Gelato

1. Marble Slab (541 W. Broadway, 604-568-9007; 103-1184 Denman, 604-682-4998)

2. Bella Gelateria (1001 W. Cordova, 604-569-1010)

3. Mondo Gelato (1094 Denman, 604-647-6638)

Cheese Shop

1. European Delicatessen (1220 Davie, 604-688-3442)

2. Tangos Gourmet Meats (865 Denman, 604-681-2121)

Neighbourhood Restaurant

1. Le Parisien (751 Denman, 604-687-1418)

2. Adesso Bistro (1906 Haro, 604-568-9975)

3. Lolitas (1326 Davie, 604-696-9996)

Burger

1. Veras Burger Shack (multiple locations)

2. Fatburger (multiple locations)

3. Whitespot (multiple locations)

Pizza

1. Nats New York Pizzeria (2684 W. Broadway, 604-737-0707; 1080 Denman, 604-642-0777)

2. Nook (781 Denman, 604-568-4554)

3. Olympia Pizza (tie) (3205 W. Broadway, 604-732-5334)

3. Rebellious Tomato Gourmet Pizza (tie) (721 Denman St, 604-707-4992)

Vegetarian

1. Smak Healthy Fast Food (1139 W. Pender, 604-559-7625)

2. Panz Veggie (1355 Hornby, 604-266-3637)

3. Green Leaf Salad Bar (560 Bute, 604-677-5650)

Breakfast

1. Joes Grill (multiple locations)

2. Central Bistro (1072 Denman, 604-689-4527)

3. De Dutch (410 W. 2nd, 604-569-0477)

Brunch

1. Forage (1300 Robson, 604-661-1400)

2. Joes Grill (multiple locations)

3. Milestones (tie) (multiple locations)

3. Score on Davie (tie) (1262 Davie, 604-632-1646)

Weekday Lunch

1. Cactus Club (multiple locations)

2. Upper Deck Kitchen & Taphouse (1239 Davie, 604-685-5761)

3. Beyond Restaurant & Lounge (1015 Burrard, 604-684-3474)

Dinner

1. Cactus Club (tie) (multiple locations)

1. Forage (tie) (1300 Robson, 604-661-1400)

2. La Brassiere (tie) (1091 Davie, 604-568-6499)

2. Banana Leaf (tie) (multiple locations)

3. Stephos Souvlaki Greek Taverna (1124 Davie, 604-683-2555; 1359 Robson, 604-685-9977)

Dessert

1. True Confections (3701 W. Broadway, 604-222-8489)

2. Thierry (1059 Alberni, 604-608-6870)

3. Nero Belgian Waffle Bar (1703 Robson, 778-712-0694)

Date Night Spot

1. Cactus Club (multiple locations)

2. Nook (781 Denman, 604-568-4554)

3. Le Parisien (tie) (751 Denman, 604-687-1418)

3. Espana (tie) (1118 Denman, 604-558-4040)

Coffee Shop

1. Starbucks (multiple locations)

2. Blenz (tie) (multiple locations)

2. Delanys (tie) (1105 Denman, 604-662-3344)

3. Melriches Coffeehouse (tie) (1244 Davie, 604-689-5282)

3. Milano Coffee Roasters (tie) (156 W. 8th, 604-879-4468)

Late Night Dining

1. Lolitas (1326 Davie, 604-696-9996)

2. Espana (1118 Denman, 604-558-4040)

3. Upper Deck Kitchen & Taphouse (1239 Davie, 604-685-5761)

Pub/Bar

1. Score (On Davie, 1262 Davie, 604-632-1646

2. Fountainhead Pub (1025 Davie, 604-687-2222)

3. Upper Deck Kitchen & Taphouse (tie) (1239 Davie, 604-685-5761)

3. Bayside Lounge (tie) (1755 Davie, 604-682-1831)

Beer/Wine Store

1. Marquis (1034 Davie, 604-684-0445)

2. West End Liquor Store (tie) (961 Denman, 604-683-1929)

2. Coal Harbour Liquor Store (tie) (1218 W. Pender, 604-685-1212)

3. Denmans Wine & Spirits (111A-1033 Denman, 604-633-1863)

Travel Agency

1. Flight Centre (multiple locations)

2. Finisterra (1-800-806-0761)

3. Travel Masters (200-2678 W. Broadway, 604-659-4150; 1604-1166 Alberni, 604-568-3944)

Bikes

1. Denman Bike Shop (710 Denman, 604-685-9755; 2607 Main, 604-559-9494)

2. Spokes Bicycle Rentals (1798 W. Georgia, 604-688-5141)

3. English Bay Bikes Rentals (1754 Davie, 604-568-8490)

Pet Supplies

1. Bosleys by Pet Valu (multiple locations)

2. Big Dog Little Dog Bakery (985 Denman, 604-568-5540)

3. Bark and Fitz (561 Cardero, 604-568-6096)

Hardware

1. The Little Hardware Company (1320 Davie, 604-687-6285)

2. West End Paint and Hardware (835 Bidwell, 604-633-1941)

3. Home Hardware (multiple locations)

Tailor

1. Simdys Fashion Alteration (1062 Davie, 604-633-0828)

2. Vivien Fashions (1180 Bidwell, 604-684-0712)

3. Rose Stitch (116-1030 Denman, 604-488-1464)

Cobbler

1. Denman Shoe Repair (982 Denman, 604-681-7294)

2. Royal Centre Shoe Doc (1200-1055 W. Georgia, 604-689-3386)

3. Davie Shoe Repair & Luggage (1248 Davie, 604-687-3024)

Dry cleaner

1. Swan Laundry (1352 Burrard, 604-684-0323)

2. Laundry Valet Coin Laundry and Dry Cleaning (1238 Davie, 604-568-2020)

3. Polo Cleaners (1247 Davie, 604-681-0722)

Dental Clinic

1. Aarm Dental Group (multiple locations)

2. Langston Raymond Dentistry (512-1033 Davie, 604-687-1008)

3. English Bay Dental Centre (1653 Davie, 604-688-9678)

3. Westend Dental Centre (tie) (123-1030 Denman, 604-662-3333)

Florist

1. My Florist (779 Denman, 604-688-1717)

2. Get Fresh Flowers Inc (1688 Davie, 604-685-3500)

3. Davie Flowers (1139 Davie, 604-685-9111)

Hair Salon

1. Sukis (multiple locations)

2. Enchanté Hair (1687 Davie, 604-669-9166)

3. Volume Studio (tie) (1209 Bute, 604-559-5977)

3. Axis (tie) (1386 W. Pender, 604-609-3535)

Nail Salon

1. Absolute Spa Group (multiple locations)

2. Cranberries Spa (330 Robson, 604-696-9191)

3. Spirit Nails (tie) (1725 Robson, 604-806-6336)

3. Fingertips Design Studio (tie) (1226 Davie, 604-682-8477)

Tanning Salon

1. Banana Tans (148 E. Broadway, 604- 872-8267; 1060 Davie, 604-331-8267)

2. Tan de Soleil Sun Tan Studios (210-911 Denman, 604-689-5110)

3. Sunshine Tanning Studios (1208 Davie, 604-687-1035)

Eyewear

1. Urban Eyes (1620 Davie, 604-899-8899)

2. Eyes on Burrard (tie) (1493 W. 12th, 1- 888-292-6125)

2. English Bay Eye Worx (tie) (1112 Denman, 604-685-7001)

3. Abasa Optical (1037 Davie, 604-687-3937)

Yoga Studio

1. YYoga (multiple locations)

2. Bikram Yoga (multiple locations)

3. Robson St. Yoga (1610 Robson, 778-888-9642)

Fitness Facility

1. YMCA (multiple locations)

2. Club 16 Trevor Linden Fitness (tie) (50-1055 Canada Pl, 604-558-1600)

2. Denman Fitness (tie) (1731 Comox, 604-688-2484)

3. West End Community Centre (870 Denman, 604-257-8333)

Copyright 2014

Vancouver Sun: Kinnie Starr at QAF

Kinnie Starr: Home is everywhere.  Juno-nominated artist takes fringe cultures to the cutting edge.

By Francois Marchand, Vancouver Sun, July 26, 2013

Kinnie Starr 
Aug. 2, 7:30 p.m. | Roundhouse Performance Centre
Tickets: $5 (youth), $20 (adult) in advance at queerartsfestival.com

For Kinnie Starr, it’s a portable life.

Whether in Penetanguishene, where she has been caring for her father, or Vancouver (where she lives) or somewhere in between, the Juno-nominated artist is finding her roots by being rootless, and it’s a theme that comes across quite clearly on her latest album Kiss It, out in August.

“I wanted to call the record ‘Home Is Everywhere’ (the title of the album’s leadoff track) because I made this record by myself with my computer, a guitar, a keyboard and some drums,” Starr said in a recent phone interview. “My portability influences my art.

“It really strikes me the more mature I become as an artist, the more I study my craft, that the ability to make art in quiet places and to take your art with you where you go is major gift. It’s really amazing to find roots wherever you are and to think, ‘I belong here.’”

After thumbing her nose at laptop culture and electro influences with her guitar-centric, Chin Injeti-produced album A Different Day (2010), Kiss It sees Starr return to her hip-hop foundation with a self-produced album that is entirely hers.

Kiss It is a big, brash statement on art, nature, gender identity, sexuality and the politics tied within all of them.

It’s not surprising then to see her premiere her new album at this year’s Queer Arts Festival, an event whose theme —and main art exhibit, curated by Paul Wong — is “TransgressionNow.” (Note: Although the festival runs as the same time as Pride, the two are not officially connected.)

“Queer cultures are leading cultures,” Starr said. “Native culture is the same way — women’s culture as well. Any kind of fringe culture can see from the outside in. I feel like I owe a lot to the queer community for developing my career. When I first started making music I came out of visual arts, making this guerrilla street art and queer-positive art. That lesbian community and feminist community was built into what I did.

“I have an allegiance to the queer community also because I’ve been in love with women,” she added. Currently married to a man, actor Stuart Pierre, Starr has been vocal about her bisexuality in the past. “I know what it feels like to be afraid to kiss my girlfriend in a parking lot because I don’t want my teeth knocked out. It’s not that way in 2013 any more because it’s popularized and more accepted.”

Kiss It will be included in the price of admission for all that go see her performance on Aug. 2, almost three weeks ahead of its official release on Aug. 18.

The concert at the Roundhouse Community Centre will also feature cellist Cris Derksen and Starr associate and Sto:lo DJ Ostwelve manning the decks.

Kiss It’s album cover, which features a naked Starr clutching a rifle while lounging on a couch in her old family cottage with her back to the camera, is a strong statement about the human body and about natural beauty as art.

But more than anything, Kiss It, in all its raw, ragged electro hip-hop glory, is also a testament to Starr’s cultural heritage (which includes Aboriginal roots), and a salute to parents who have always been much more conservative than she is.

“My mom has said to me several times recently that she feels so lucky to know someone like me because I’m the only person she knows that thinks way ahead of the curve, whether it was nutrition or gay rights or native rights,” Starr said. “I think whatever reservation my parents once had about me as an artist have been dispelled by seeing my concerns now part of current media.

“I feel a lot of responsibility,” she said when asked if it was strange to suddenly see herself as a role model for her own parents. “My father is an alcoholic and an addict and that’s why I was (in Penetanguishene) for two years. I wish I could do more to help him. I just feel proud that I was able to put that time into my father and my mother and be there for my family. I’m really happy (about being a role model to them). I’m kind of a fringe thinker and I’ve been that way since I was a kid. Finally as an adult I’m able to articulate that stuff to my parents.”

Starr said she was not one to sit idly in front of the TV as a kid, always looking for something to do or a place to go, memories that pepper a song like We Just Want To Play.

Body Like A Queen, the album’s leadoff single, sees Starr take a stand against what she deems to be the pervasive, corrupted view of the female body that is perpetuated in the media and skews our understanding of what the human machine really is.

But while she makes a strong stand on Kiss It, expressing opinions she said she fears may clash with hip-hop’s mostly male audiences, she ultimately hopes for people to feel “joy and contemplation.”

“We are all looking for the same thing: Love, acceptance, some harmony in our personal lives,” Starr said. “But we’re so f—ed right now because of media culture and music video culture. I try to listen to music without looking at videos and I think that we would all have so much more fun if we didn’t stare at computer screens all the time.”

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