Vancouver Foodster Best Burger Challenge

Comments 1 by Rebecca Bollwitt

Richard Wolak from Vancouver Foodster has officially crowned a winner in his Best Burger Challenge. From November 5th until November 30th he had 29 restaurants (and a food truck) throw their hats in the ring and the final choice was made by the public through a vote that took place November 28th to December 3rd.


Max’s Burgers: “The Local”. Photo courtesy of Richard Wolak.

“Burgers are one of those menu items that are popular in many restaurants in our area,” Richard told me. “Yes we are often known as a healthy city, but I see it as balance, people who are working out also want to treat themselves to a burger. The challenge gets people out to try new burger creations that either haven’t been on their favourite restaurants menus or gets them out to try new restaurants and the burger creations that they are featuring.”

The winners were announced on Richard’s website this week:
1st Place: Max’s Burgers – “The Local”
2nd Place: The Fray – “Triple Threat Burger”
3rd Place: Blue Canoe Waterfront Restaurant – “The Mistress”
4th Place: Luke’s Kitchen — “Veggie Burger”

“The top 5 winning burgers were all ones that were custom created by the restaurants for this challenge, and the top 2 winning burgers were all about local and from what those restaurants have told me, this was the most popular item on their menu during the challenge outselling every other menu item.”

Richard said that aside from promoting local eateries and engaging the public, the challenge actually had a major impact on the way that one competitor did business. Max’s Burgers (1st place) previously used Alberta beef. For this challenge they came up with “The Local” burger and used grass-fed local beef from The Honest Butcher. “Almost every customer began ordering “The Local” and paying a higher price as this was their most expensive burger on the menu. Within two weeks they decided to change the entire beef supply moving strongly in a more local sustainable direction, and now all their beef is being purchased locally, totally changing the way they do business and service their customers.”

This is actually Richard’s third food challenge, having hosted his own Best Beef Burger and Fries Challenge, a Poutine Challenge and a Pancake Challenge earlier this year. “The chefs enjoy being challenged and it also challenges the servers and the rest of the staff creating a camaraderie of sorts which energizes the whole team and increases sales for their respective restaurants.”

You can read full descriptions of each winning burger on Richard’s site and also find out who he personally named Best Beef Burger last year. Follow Richard on Twitter to learn more about his upcoming events (like Food Talks and Tasting Plates) and explore more of the delicious food this city has to offer.

GLOW Salt Spring Island Giveaway

Comments 434 by Rebecca Bollwitt

Today I’m heading over to Salt Spring Island (otherwise known as our ‘Happy Place’) to enjoy the second annual Glowtini competition. Bartenders and mixologist from the isle will compete to tantalize taste-buds with a custom cocktail created specifically for Salt Spring Islanders and guests this holiday season. I’ll be joined by Janice Mansfield and David Wolowidnyk at the judges’ table to sip and sample contest entries — it’s a tough job but somebody’s got to do it!

Get Your Glow On - Logo

The Glowtini contest will begin at 8:00pm tonight and those in attendance with us at Harbour House can make a donation to Salt Spring’s Copper Kettle Community Partnership to try the cocktail that gets crowned as this year’s Glowtini.

Salt Spring Island is fast becoming a year round destination, as visitors discover an increasingly popular winter vacation awaits them. Recently named one of the top 10 islands to visit during the festive season, Canada’s organic food capital is a welcoming retreat with exciting offerings for the holidays. Take in spas, winery tours, boutique shopping, galleries, outdoor adventures, dining and foodie experiences including the Saturday Market and visits to Salt Spring Cheese and the Bread Lady as well as one of three wineries. And now it’s “Christmas on Salt Spring!” and the secret is out.

Helping to coordinate the island’s festivities is the Salt Spring Christmas Committee comprised of the Island’s accommodation providers, retailers, restaurant owners, specialty stores, non-profit groups, local media, the chamber of commerce and the island’s arts community. Visitors will enjoy an authentic BC holiday focused on family and friends having fun, and enjoying unique experiences.

As previously mentioned, Salt Spring Island is very special to John and me, which is why I’m excited that they have once again partnered with me for a campaign. Last year I attended the Glowtini event and gave away a getaway package and we’re doing the same. Here’s what Salt Spring Island businesses have provided for this year’s giveaway:

Hastings House Country House Hotel Invites you to be their Special Guest!

Settle into your deluxe accommodation overlooking Ganges Harbour. Your hillside room features a king size bed, gas fireplace, large bathroom with deep soaking tub and separate shower, heated floors and a covered balcony to drink in the views. That evening your dinner reservations will be at one of the Island’s favourite dining establishments.

The following day you will discover a morning hamper at your door, inside are freshly baked muffins and coffee to help awaken you. A full English Breakfast served in our Manor House will complete your visit and prepare you for another day of discovering more fabulous adventures on Salt Spring.

Prize Recap

  • Round trip flights for two, courtesy of Saltspring Air
  • Two nights accommodation for two, at Hastings House Country House Hotel including: Afternoon Tea and English breakfast and a $50 Wellspring Spa gift card
  • Dining gift card at one of the Island’s popular eateries, Auntie Pestos
  • Salt Spring Hamper full of locally produced goodies
  • $50 Gift card for boutique shopping at Twang & Pearl

Saltspring Island from the air

If you need further affirmation that this is a great place, perhaps this Open Love Letter to Salt Spring written by last year’s contest winner will win you over:

“In Miss 604′s original post, she described Salt Spring Island as “magical”. There is truly no better word to communicate the feeling of being in your presence…” “…Salt Spring Island, this was my first visit, but it will certainly not be the last. We loved your easygoing attitude and quiet pride. Locals and fellow tourists alike were singing the praises of your community in the summer, when the market is bustling and the outdoor adventures of kayaking and hiking become a real possibility. I look forward to the day when I will see you again. But until then, I send you my love and my loved ones.”

Here’s how you can enter to win the incredible Salt Spring GLOW giveaway (valued at $2,500!) from Salt Spring Island Tourism and the Salt Spring Christmas Committee:

  • Leave a comment on this post naming an upcoming Christmas on Salt Spring event (as listed on their website) (1 entry)
  • Post the following on Twitter (1 entry)
RT to enter to win a #GLOW @HelloSaltSpring getaway from @Miss604 http://ow.ly/fTfYm

Follow Salt Spring Island Tourism on Twitter and Facebook for more information throughout the year.

I will draw one winner at random from all entries on Sunday, December 16, 2012 at 12:00pm. Must be 19+ to enter and claim. Prize includes and is limited to the items listed in the prize recap above. The winner will have to claim their prize between January 15th to April 15th, 2013, based on availability of flights and accommodation. The winner will also agree to be disclosed and do any follow-up interviews/ or media related activities. The Salt Spring Christmas Committee, Hastings House Country House Hotel as well as Salt Spring Air, and the Chamber of Commerce sponsor the contest.

Update The winner is Wanderlust Megan!

Christmas at Canada Place 2012: Activities and Events

Comments 1 by Rebecca Bollwitt

The 25th annual Christmas at Canada Place begins this weekend as one of Vancouver’s most iconic attractions celebrates the season. Once again as a proud media partner of this campaign, I am happy to share all the details for what’s in store from December 8th to December 30th.

Woodward's Windows for 2011 Woodward's Windows for 2011

The Christmas Trail
Visit Canada Place daily from 8:00am to 10:00pm for activities, entertainment, the classic Woodward’s Windows, an avenue of decorated Christmas trees, Santa’s Workshop, Sails of Light and more — all free! Starting December 8th, you can stop by the Christmas Workshop from 1:00pm to 6:00pm daily for festive crafts, face-painting, storytelling, hot chocolate, and a SantaGram life-sized photo wall.

Woodward’s Windows
Aside from being placed along the Christmas Trail at Canada Place, spot Woodward’s Windows at Bentall One, Three, Four and Five, Woodward’s Food Floor by Nesters Market, and the Port Metro Vancouver Discovery Centre.

Woodward's Windows for 2011 Woodward's Windows for 2011

Holiday Contest
Support local kids in need and enter to win a trip for two to Hawaii valued over $8,000 from Air Canada and Miramar at Waikiki. There are many ways to participate along the Christmas Trail and at each of the Woodward’s Windows locations*:

  • Download the Christmas at Canada Place mobile app and check-in all Woodward’s Windows
  • Complete a paper Woodward’s Windows quiz form which is available at all Woodward’s Windows locations
  • Take your picture with Santa at SantaGram, post it to Instagram, Facebook or Twiteer and mention ‘@CanadaPlace’
  • Mention your favourite Christmas tree on Twitter or Facebook

*One winner selected from all entry methods. One entry per free entry method per person.

Breakfast with Santa
The ever-popular Breakfast with Santa has already sold out this year. This and all other Christmas at Canada Place events support the Strathcona Community Centre’s Food Security for Children Program, an essential program that helps to feed children and families on Vancouver’s Downtown Eastside.

Follow Canada Place on Twitter and Facebook for event updates, more free activities, and information about their attractions.

Caya Gift Guide and Giveaway

Comments 190 by Rebecca Bollwitt

Caya is a sophisticated brand of boutiques powered by TELUS and they’re stocking the shelves with great gadget-y gift ideas this season. With stores on South Granville, in Gastown, on Davie, and in the West End, they’re offering stylish tech-savvy products that will not only be practical, but also look really cool.

Gift Guide

Fuji Instax Mini 50s Camera – $129.99 at Caya
This retro-looking camera offers stunning instant pictures. The film provides sharp, clear images with vivid colours and natural skin tones. You can capture holiday photos that fit right in your wallet.

Native Union POP Phones – $39.99 at Caya
A twist on the classic telephone, this accessory combines a vintage look with modern technology. It provides crisp sound and works with the iPhone and Android – so you’ll have no problem keeping in touch with friends over the Christmas break. It’s available in black, purple, lavender, pink and orange.

Charge N’ Fruit Stands – Starting at $59.99 at Caya
These statues are the most decorative way to charge a device. Each fruit is designed to completely conceal the USB charging cable, just pull the cable through the bottom of the fruit. It’s a statement piece and a clever nod to Apple’s iPhone products, mixing functionality with personality while “juicing” up your cellphone.

Axis Wallet for iPhone 5 – $49.99 at Caya
The Axis Wallet for iPhone 5 is a genuine leather all-in-one phone case including custom molded phone bed with camera hole, three card slots plus additional cash storage. Protective cover with elastic closure. Pivot hinge provides a stand for widescreen viewing.

X-Mini II Capsule Speaker – $29.99 at Caya
The X-Mini II Capsule Speaker is petite in size but massive in sound. Hook it up to your mobile phone, MP3 player or laptop, and impress your friends with this pocket-size boom-box that pumps out tunes with crisp acoustics. It’s available in a range of colours and is the perfect stocking stuffer.

Mophie Juice Pack Air – $79.99 at Caya
This is a great gift for socialites that are always on the phone. It’s an award-winning, durable, ultra-thin case that houses a rechargeable battery and doubles your time to talk, surf or send, while also protecting your iPhone from every day wear and tear. You can enjoy up to 36 extra hours of audio and nine extra hours of video playback, in additional to the battery life of your iPhone.

Urban Ears Plattan Headphones – Starting at $69.99 at Caya
These full-size headphones allow for rich sounds in a compact body. They come with a ZoundPlug on the earcap, allowing a friend to plug in and enjoy your music too. There are two other types of Urban Ears available: Baggis headphones ($39.99) and Medis headphones ($59.99).

You can also pick up devices like the Samsung Galaxy S III, Samsung Galaxy Note II, HTC One™ X. To promote Caya’s gift guide, they have offered up a prize pack for one lucky reader of mine.

Giveaway

Hex Academy Laptop Tote –$84.99 at Caya
This stylish yet versatile tote bag has storage for your MacBook Pro (up to 15”), iPad and phone. With an additional general storage area and organizer, this water resistant, waxed reverse denim with surplus grade web straps truly has all of a Vancouverite’s bases covered.

La Sardina Cubic Camera & Flash – 109.99 at Caya
Colourfully festive, La Sardina Cubic Camera & Flash lends a fresh retro look to old school photography. The wide angle lens and multiple exposure capabilities paired with a powerful flash will leave the paparazzi jealous. Caya can process your film and perhaps turn your creations into an amazing canvas print or photo book.

You can enter to win this Caya prize pack including the La Sardina Cubic camera and the Hex Academy Tote by:

  • Leaving a comment on this post (1 entry)
  • Posting the following on Twitter (1 entry)
RT to enter to win a @ThisisCaya prize pack from @Miss604 http://ow.ly/fSAd4

Follow Caya on Facebook and Twitter for product information year-round. I will draw one contest winner at random from all entries at 12:00pm on Wednesday, December 12, 2012.

Update The winner is Asha!

Surrey Christmas Bureau Adopt-A-Family 2012

Add a Comment by Rebecca Bollwitt

The Surrey Christmas Bureau’s Adopt-A-Family program is in full swing this year and by following them on Twitter, I know they are quite shy of their goal for sponsor families so far. Your office, organization, group of friends, or even your family could like to join forces to support a family in need this season and make a big difference in the lives of others.

The Surrey Christmas Bureau assists hundreds of low-income families with children under the age of 16. Through the Hamper and Adopt-A-Family programs these families receive food certificates, toys, gifts, warm clothing and household items. In addition, the Bureau matches sponsors with nearly 250 families who have children with unique challenges and considerations. As Surrey continues to grow, and as the economy’s instability lingers, each year there is a greater need for the services we provide.

Adopt-A-Family sponsors take on the responsibility of providing Christmas breakfast, lunch and dinner as well as gifts for the family they are matched with. It is recommended that sponsors provide a Christmas stocking along with gifts for each child. This year they hoped to attract 1,000 sponsors and according to their latest update, they have 1438 registered families in need and only 500 sponsors. If you would like to help out, here’s how you can get started:

You can call the Surrey Christmas Bureau at (604) 585-9670 or download the online sponsor application form (completing it in black ink) and emailing it to aaf.scb[at]gmail[dot]com or faxing it to (604) 585-9614. If you prefer to mail it in, send to: PO Box 547, 10688 King George Blvd, Surrey, BC V3T 5W7. There is also a planning guide and guidelines document online.

Support the cause in person by stopping by the Stuff The Bus event this Friday December 7th and Saturday December 8th at the Comfort Inn in Surrey. Follow the Surrey Christmas Bureau on Facebook and Twitter for updates.