April 2018 issue 113 by Cowichan Valley Voice

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APRIL 2018 ISSUE 113

COWICHAN ARTISANS I EARTH DAY I RHODO GARDENING

VINOTECA AT ZANATTA

Essential Oils 101 6pm Scoops Natural Foods Whippletree Jct 778-422-3310 $15 also 5/17/19 Atlantic String Machine String Quintet’s Bach to Beatles 730pm Duncan United Church 246 Ingram St $20 $10 Student.

Community Acupuncture Wed w/Frauke McCashin RAc 5-8pm #103-44 Queens Rd 250-7103581 $15-45 also 18/25 Meditation 7 pm Buddha Ctr 3904 Johnny Bear 250-7107594 FREE also 11/18/25

Join us for Lunch Wed - Sun. Dinner on the Weekends. Brunch on Sundays.

Ready, Set, Learn Event 530-630pm Queen of Angels Early Learning Centre 2085 Maple Bay Rd FREE

Event Shuttle Available through

vinoteca.ca

Community Acupuncture Thurs w/ Frauke McCashin RAc 12-3 pm #103-44 Queens Rd 250-7103581 $15-45 also 12/19/26

5039 Marshall Rd, Duncan I 250 709 2279 Million Dollar Quartet Chemainus Theatre Festival chemainustheatre. ca runs to April 14

Easter Fair at the HUB 9am-1pm 2375 Koksilah Rd FREE entry w/ fair tickets for sale Easter at Birds Eye Cove Farm Egg hunts every hour starting at 10:30am to 3:30 pm $5 per person 5881 Genoa Bay Rd, Duncan Warmland Calligraphers “Letter Crafting” Exhibit 11am-5pm & Sat 12-3pm PORTALS Island Savings Ctr 2687 James St. FREE runs to 04/06 Five Voices of the Land Exhibit 11am-5pm & Sat 12-3pm Arbutus Gallery Island Savings Ctr 2687 James FREE runs to 04/06 Iain Duncan Trio wBryn Badel 2pm Pat’s House of Jazz Osborne Bay Pub 1534 Joan Ave $15

Meditation & Study 9am Buddha Ctr 3904 Johnny Bear 250-7107594 also 12/19/26

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Registration for the Cowichan Valley Fine Arts Show 10am-5pm at Portals Island Savings Ctr 2687 James St or register online at cowichanvalleyartscouncil.ca/ fineartsshow

1843 Tzouhalem Rd Tix @ Duncan Music, Prov Farm Store & eventbrite.ca $20 The Grinning Barretts and David Bitoni 8pm Riot Brewing Co 101A 3055 Oak St Chemainus FREE Master Gardener Clinic 10am-3pm Dinter Nursery 250-748-2023 FREE also 21/28

Lister/McRae/Rhodes Trio Jazz Covers of Gordon Lightfoot 2pm Pat’s House of Jazz Osborne Bay Pub 1534 Joan Ave $15. Cougar Annie Tales 8pm The Edgewaters 131 Station St Duncan Showroom $18 adv /$20 door Second Sunday Market @ the Hub 10am- 3pm 2375 Koksilah Rd FREE

Cowichan Therapeutic Riding Association AGM 7pm CTRA Office 1843 Tzouhalem Rd Chow Down Family Cooking Classes w/Childminding Mac & Cheese 4-630pm Cowichan Green Community 360 Duncan St cgcf.ca/ projects/chow-cooking-classes FREE also 16/23/30

The Chemical Free Home 6pm Scoops Natural Foods Whippletree Jct 778-422-3310 $15 also 12/24/26

Sunrise Waldorf School Open House 2pm 2148 Lakeside Rd RSVP 250-743-7253 FREE also April 17 Cowichan Valley Garden Club 7pm St. John’s Church Hall 486 Jubliee St Monthly Meeting $20 Annual Membership

Out of Seen 1-5pm the Ou Gallery 3091 Agira Rd www. theougallery.com FREE to May 5

Parent and Child Music 11am-12 @ LILA Music Centre, 3228A Gibbins Rd www.joythroughmusic.com/ parent-and-child-music also 18/25

Cowichan Artisans Exhibit 11am-5pm & Sat 12-3pm in Portals Gallery Island Savings Ctr 2687 James St www. cowichanvalleyartscouncil.ca FREE runs to 25 Lawson Kelly w/ Reid Williams Live in the Chapel @ Providence Farm

Cowichan Artisans Spring Tour 10am-5pm throughout the Cowichan Valley www. cowichanartisans.com FREE runs to April 15 Enrapture Events Community Dance all ages 7-12pm @ The HUB 2375 Koksilah Rd $15-25 sliding scale

Huge Marine Garage Sale Fundraiser 9am-3pm Cowichan Bay Maritime Ctr 1761 Cowichan Bay Rd 250-746-4955 FREE First Annual Belly, Baby and Tot Fair 10am-4pm The Ramada Duncan Conference Centre 140 Trans Canada Hwy Harmonized Motion w/Sara Marreiros Laurel Murphy & David Martinello 6-8pm the Ou Gallery 3091 Agira Rd www.theougallery. com $20 Reception for Five Voices of the Land Exhibit 7-9pm in The Arbutus Gallery Island Savings Ctr 2687 James St FREE Mill Bay Plantaholics Annual Charity Plant Sale 9am-2pm 2836 Oceanside Lane Mill Bay Cowichan Beekeepers field day 1pm 4030 Hillbank Rd FREE GardenPals kids program Centennial Park 250-748-0580 for times FREE also 28

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Traditional Plant Medicine Workshop with Della Rice-Sylvester 10-4 rebeccachristofferson@gmail.com $250 for weekend incls meals

National Volunteer Week Thank You Cowichan Lunch and Entertainment 11am-2pm Duncan City Square courtesy Malahat Lions FREE Native American Flute Playing Workshop 1-3:30pm SOL Ctr heartsongflutes.ca FREE Quaker silent meeting 10 am St. Ann’s Garden Club Providence Farm 1843 Tzouhalem Rd FREE Shari Ulrich Trio Live in the Chapel @ Providence Farm 1843 Tzouhalem Rd Tix @ Duncan Music, Prov Farm Store & eventbrite.ca $20 Arrowsmith Jazz Band 2pm Pat’s House of Jazz Osborne Bay Pub 1534 Joan Ave 250-324-2245 $20

Valley Voice Magazine -Your Monthly Guide to Living in the Cowichan Valley

Soul Escape’s Organic Spa’s Grand Opening Celebration 10am-5pm #109 2763 Beverly St FREE Curry and a Beer Fundraiser for Harvest House 530-730pm Riot Brewing Co 101A 3055 Oak St Chemainus $20 Intro evening for The Work of Byron Katie 7-9pm 604-317-7323 FREE

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Cowichan Hand to Hand Fibre Arts workshops w/Tzouhalem Spinners & Weavers Guild 930am-430pm Cowichan Exhibition 7380 TCH Hwy cowichanh2hfibrearts.ca $40-75

Happy B’Earth Day Party 12pm-3pm Cowichan Estuary Nature Centre 1845 Cowichan Bay Rd FREE

Well Being for Volunteers Workshop 1-3pm United Church 246 Ingram St 250 7482133 FREE

Earth Day “I Love Shawnigan” Clean Up 10am-2pm SLCC Shawnigan Lake Reg w/ www. southcowichanrotary.org FREE

Torchlighting Countdown to BC Summer Games 530pm BC Forest Discovery Center bcgames.org FREE

Forest Walk & Qi Gong 1-3pm Lake Cowichan rommyflutes@shaw.ca $20

Cowichan Camerata String Orchestra A Suite Spring w/ Annik Richardson 730pm Duncan United Church 246 Ingram St 250-701-0748 Tickets $15 adult $5 student $30 family Nick Mintenko Album Release Party in the Chapel at Providence Farm 1843 Tzouhalem Rd Tix @ Duncan Music, Prov Farm Store & eventbrite.ca $15

Lauren Mann Live in the Chapel at Providence Farm 1843 Tzouhalem Rd Tix @ Duncan Music, Prov Farm Store & eventbrite.ca $20 Camerata Orchestra Fundraiser for Nature 7pm Sylvan United Church 985 Shawnigan Mill Bay Rd $15 adv $20 door under 12 FREE Swing Shift Big Band 2pm Pat’s House of Jazz Osborne Bay Pub 1534 Joan Ave 250-324-2245 $20

Customer Appreciation Day Demos & 15% off excluding red-tags & sale items Lynns Vitamin Gallery Village Green Mall HUB Film Club Movie Night “Lost in Paris” 7pm The HUB 2375 Koksilah Rd hubfilmclub@gmail. com Admission w/ membership or donation Zack Kleisinger w/ Sam Lynch Live in the Chapel at Providence Farm 1843 Tzouhalem Rd Tix $20 @ Duncan Music, Prov Farm Store & eventbrite.ca

A tenor sax and trumpet take on Dr. Tony Genge’s B3 Hammond organ and Jon Miller’s drums

Encore! Women’s Choir Spring Concert 7pm Wings St Edward’s Church 250 715-1568 adv $15 door $20 under 12 $5

Trio honours Gordon Lightfoot with jazz interpretations of his iconic songbook

West Coast April Choirs 7pm Brentwood College School festival. brentwood.bc.ca $10 donation to CMS food bank

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Seniors Day Demos Green 15% off excluding red-tags & sale items Lynns Vitamin Gallery Village Mall

Masimba Marimba Hosts Village Gathering & potluck 6-930pm @ the HUB 2375 Koksilah Rd $10 under 12 FREE

Celebrate Cittaslow Cowichan Delicious local food w/ pairings 6PM to 8:30 PM, Oceanfront Suites at Cowichan Bay, 1681 Cowichan Bay Rd eventbrite.com $65

A Day Retreat of Meditation & Mindfulness 830am-530pm 3904 Johnny Bear Buddha Ctr Reg 250-710-7594 FREE

Kim’s Convenience Chemainus Theatere Festival chemainustheatre.ca runs to May 26

David Gogo Band 8pm 131 Station St Duncan Showroom adv $20 door$25

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Volunteer Gardeners’ Plant Sale 9am-12pm Cairnsmore Pl 250 Cairnsmore St Cowichan Valley Garden Club Annual Plant Sale 10-1 pm St. John’s Church Hall 486 Jubliee St FREE Yin Yoga Class w/ Nadia 6-730pm Harmony Yoga Centre 360 Duncan St FREE

21-22

Live Edge Design Furniture workshop Mearns Rd liveedgedesign.com $275

21-22

Loving What Is - A Weekend in The Work of Byron Katie Info and reg 604-317-7323 $195

Abstracting the Landscape painting workshop w/Susan Woolgar ASA ACA Fri 7-9pm and Sat/Sun 930am-430pm Somenos Room Island Savings Ctr cowichanvalley artscouncil.ca $200 members/$250

April 1• 2PM Iain Duncan Trio with guest Bryn Badel

Cowichan Valley Garden Fair & Plant Sale 10am-2pm Cowichan Valley Exhibition Grounds cowichanvalleygardenfair. com FREE entry and parking

FKSS Dry Grad Annual Garage Sale @ FKSS 953 Shawnigan-Mill Bay Rd FREE

ASIST Suicide Prevention Workshop, 9am-5pm Duncan United Church 246 Ingram St $180

SUNDAY AFTERNOONS

Fundraising Concert for Syrian Refugees 2pm Duncan United Church $20 or by donation children 12 & under FREE

April 8• 2PM Lister/McRae/Rhodes

April 15 • 2PM $20 Arrowsmith Big Band

Power and precision with driving swing and big band ballads

April 22• 2PM $20 Swing Shift Big Band

40’s era roars back to life

April 29• 2PM Rob Uffen Quintet

modern treatments of beautiful melodies from the Great American Songbook

Osborne Bay Pub 1534 Joan Ave, Crofton All shows are $15 at the door unless otherwise stated.

Bob Uffen Quintet the Great American Songbook 2pm Pat’s House of Jazz Osborne Bay Pub 1534 Joan Ave $15

April 2018 Issue 113 Cowichan Valley Voice Magazine Publisher Richard Badman Editor Sheila Badman Contact us at: editor@cowichanvalleyvoice.com 250 746 9319 6514 Wicks Rd, Duncan BC V9L 5V2 Visit us online at www.cowichanvalleyvoice.com Distribution Events Calendar Mike Andringa C. A. Linklater

Social Media Flock Social Media

Advertising Enquiries Please Contact Adrienne Richards 250 510 6596 e-mail adrienne@cowichanvalleyvoice.com Next Ad Deadline April 18 for May 2018 Issue 114 COMMUNITY CALENDAR LISTINGS ARE FREE! Next EVENTS DEADLINE April15 for May 2018 Issue E-mail: Date, Event Title, Time, Location and Cost w/ subject “EVENT” to events@cowichanvalleyvoice.com *Non Profit Community Ad Rates available please enquire. Cowichan Valley Voice Magazine reserves the right to omit and/or edit submitted listings due to space limitations SPECIAL THANKS TO FOLLOWING VALLEY VOICES Ted Leischner, Bill Jones, Cam MacDonald, Michael Abbott, Bruce Stewart, Jessica Schacht, Tina Foster, Janet Magdanz, Susan Down, Bernie Dinter, Barrie Agar, Joanne Sales, Manor Bridge, Arwen Schmaus, Joanne Sales, Gabrielle Rondeau-Leclaire, Donna Shaw, Mark Kiemele, Alistair MacGregor, Bronwen Thorburn, Violet Reynolds, Dr. Lyn Pascoe, Deb Savory-Wright, Saskia J., Ben M., Nyanza H., Tina X., Krista Derksen, Leah Hayes, David Slade, Sophy Roberge, Paulina Kee, Sheila Badman, Simon Pidcock, Alexa Linton, Debbie Wood, Rebecca Christofferson, Asrael, Nicolette Genier and The Wonderful Staff at The Community Farm Store and The Lovely Georgia Nicols We welcome your story ideas & photo submissions, however Cowichan Valley Voice Magazine reserves the right to omit and/or edit all submissions for space, clarity, content and style. The opinions expressed in Valley Voice Magazine do not necessarily reflect those of the editor, publishers or other contributors. Please send a query e-mail with your suggested topic prior to sending your article as space is limited and may not always be available. Valley Voice Magazine is distributed through 450 + select locations throughout the Cowichan Valley- Malahat, Mill Bay, Shawnigan Lake, Cherry Point, Duncan, Cowichan Bay, Crofton, Chemainus and Salt Spring Island and to Cowichan Lake, Ladysmith, Victoria, Tofino and Parksville April Cover: Golden oak chair restored in leather by Studio on Herd Road, Duncan. Pillow applique designed by Bonnie Schmaus www.BonnieSchmaus.com, Photography by Arwen Schmaus

Choose Valley Voice Magazine to be part of your 2018 marketing plan.

Contact Adrienne for details and a rate card

250 510 6596

adrienne@cowichanvalleyvoice.com

OUR COMMUNITY

April Events 4-5 April Update From Alistair MacGregor 39 Volunteering 44 We Need You at the 2018 BC Summer Games 45 Earth Day Memories 52 Zero Waste 53 Rain Drains 54 Local Concerns Over the Kinder Morgan Pipeline? 60 Community Farm Store Pages 66-67 Georgia Nicols April Forecast 68 Directory 70-71

LOCAL FOOD & DRINK

Cowichan Spring Foraging 10 VIU’s Cowichan Farm to Table Restaurant 13 A Brief History of Ancient Wheat 15 History Glass: Vermouth Edition 16 Celebrate Cittaslow Cowichan 19 An Exquisite Dining Experience The Royal Dar 36-37

HOME, FARM & GARDEN

Sustainable Wild Bumblebees 8 Mustard Greens 12 Roots, Shoots and Tendrils 14 The Genus Rhododendron 24-25 Cut Broom In Bloom 26 Duncan’s Sweet Peas Cowichan Incubator Seed Farm 27 Small Is Beautiful At La Petite Auction House 29 Wild Workshop 32 Solar Reaches Tipping Point 55 There Must Be Something In The Water 56-57 Electronics Dismantled In Canada 58 From City To Homestead 59

LOCAL ARTS

Big Band Mania Comes to Crofton 7 West Coast April Choir Festival 11 Talking Arts Arwen and Bonnie Schmaus of Studio on Herd Rd 20 Cowichan Artisans Spring Tour 21 Out of Seen David Martinello 22 Artists Get Ready for Spring Fine Arts Show 23 Talk on William Kurelek 23 Live in the Chapel Providence Farm 28 Wings Encore Womens Choir 30 Masimba Marimba Hosts Village Gathering 30 Lauren Mann 31 Cowichan Hand to Hand Fiber Arts 33 Get Creative With Etc. In Chemainus 35 Spring Concert For a Syrian Refugee Family 64

CHILDREN & FAMILY Safe, Natural and Organic Goods For Baby, Mom and Family 40 Parent and Child Music Class 47 Belly, Baby and Tot Fair 49 BODY, MIND & SOUL

Feed Your Gut Wisely 18 Soul Escape Opens New Organic Spa 34 The Perfect Meal 41 Connect Your Feet To The Earth 42 Rosacea 43 Change Makers and Risk Takers 46 Traditional Plant Medicine Workshop 65 An Ayurvedic Perspective-Planting Seeds 69

PETS, RECREATION & NATURE

South Island Whale Report 61 Connecting With Animals Is a Rebellious Act 62 Lucky Dog Please Pick Up Your Poop 63

Valley Voice Magazine - Your Monthly Guide to Living in the Cowichan Valley

16-piece Arrowsmith Jazz Band from Oceanside Robert Ell, Roshine Photography

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Big Band Mania Comes to Crofton

t’s the battle of big bands at Pat’s House of Jazz at the Osborne Bay Hotel in Crofton this month, with back-to-back swingin’ bands on tap April 15 and 22. First up is the 16-piece Arrowsmith Jazz Band from Oceanside on April 15. It’s been wowing crowds for 31 years with its drive, power and precision. The band features five saxophones, four trumpets, four trombones and piano, bass and drums, under the leadership of Dave Stewart. Now, that is one big sound. From big band ballads to driving swing, Arrowsmith’s eclectic repertoire includes a wide variety of compositions and arrangements by Rick Hirsh, Greg Bush and many other great composers and arrangers. The band’s roster includes an impressive mix of professional musicians, school and university instructors and some of the area’s best student musicians from the mid-Island. Saltspring Island’s Swing Shift Big Band lands at the pub on April 22. The band’s authentic renditions of toe-tapping, heartwarming, big band classics by Glenn Miller, Count Basie, Ary

Barrosso, Hoagy Carmichael, George Gershwin, Benny Goodman, Harry James and more are always crowd pleasers. Highlights of this show include vocals by Jim Raddysh with songs made famous by the likes of Frank Sinatra and Bing Crosby. Most of the arrangements will be 1940s originals, but there will be a few modern tunes to round out the afternoon, including a little Latin, and even a couple of pop and funk tunes. The shows are part of a regular Sunday afternoon jazz concert series presented by the Chemainus Valley Cultural Arts Society at the pub, located at 1534 Joan Ave. in Crofton. Reservations are recommended for these popular bands. Call 250 324-2245. Tables held until 1:30 p.m. Admission is $20.

Swing Shift Big Band

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Oh What Fun, Look Who’s One! Prima Strada Cobble Hill Celebrates a Birthday with New Sparkling Wine

wo food lovers with a passion for pizza were inspired to create Pizzeria Prima Strada. Owners Cristen DeCarolis and Geoffrey Dallas recognized the need for a neighborhood pizzeria: a place you could gather with family and friends for a delicious and casual meal. It needed to satisfy their four-year-old son and Cristen’s eighty year old Nonna. Also required were a few cocktails, good wines and craft beer. Now, one year later, Cowichan Valley’s newest wood-fired pizzeria is celebrating its first anniversary! Located in the Valleyview Centre (just off the Island Highway on Cowichan Bay Road), the pizzeria features a wood-burning oven imported from Italy. In the sixty-five-seat dining room you can grab a seat at the bar and see your pizza being made! Additional seats on the patio provide a view of the valley for the warm spring and summer months. Open daily from 11:30am – 9:00pm serving lunch and dinner, the pizzeria features eight taps for BC craft breweries and Italian cocktails.

Specializing in wood-fired thin

crust pizza, Pizzeria Prima Strada is committed to simple, fresh and local ingredients with many items made in house. Dough is made daily and rolled by hand; other house made products include pepperoni, sausage, meatballs, gelato, sorbetto, cookies and cake! With an abundance of local craft breweries, wineries and farmers on Vancouver Island, sourcing local product is made easy. “We’re thankful for the warm welcome from the local community. Prima Strada’s success in the valley has been a result of community support, word of mouth, local connections and partnerships,” says Cristen DeCarolis, President of Pizzeria Prima Strada. Just a year ago, with the opening of PPS Cobble Hill, PPS and Cowichan Valley’s Averill Creek launched the highly successful Vino della Casa (house wine program). Prima Prevost and Prima Grigio are100% estate grown; hand crafted in the Cowichan Valley on Vancouver Island by Averill Creek Vineyard. “It’s something we’re incredibly proud of,” say Cristen DeCarolis. “and we can’t think of a better way to celebrate our first anniversary than with the addition of bubbles – Prima Frizzante has joined the family!” Join them for wood-fired pizza, seasonal salads, house made gelato, local craft beer and don’t forget to raise a glass of bubbles to celebrate turning one! www.pizzeriaprimastrada.com

Valley Voice Magazine - Your Monthly Guide to Living in the Cowichan Valley

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SUSTAINING WILD BUMBLEBEES FOR BERRY PRODUCING VANCOUVER ISLAND FARMS AND WILDLANDS Ted Leischner, Plan Bee Now!, Duncan

t is important to note that for ten thousand years, the most effective pollinator of small berries in theCowichan Valley has been our 14 species of wild bumblebees. They are superbly adapted to do this because they: • Pack large pollen loads and have long forage distance capacity flying fast • Fly from sun up to sun down including cool and cloudy weather and • Employ unique buzz pollination behaviour which is essential for the pollination of blueberries, cranberries, tomatoes and other native plants. Bumblebees co-evolved with our native flowering plants (See list below), but habitat fragmentation has taken its toll. Native flowers are not as common and as a result, the existence of bumblebees and solitary bees is threatened. The existing fragments do not have the nectar and pollen producing capacity. Re introducing native and ornamental plant gardens focused on nectar and pollen production for bumblebees is where the action needs to be. Native flowers are not common and are disappearing from the landscape even though solitary native bees and bumblebees still need them. Fortunately our fading wild bumblebees are

being sustained by commercial crops like blueberries, cranberries, fruit trees and raspberry family crops, and well planned bumblebee gardens, farm hedgerows and border strips. There is no going back to the blue fields of camas, so if you have these, protect them with your life. The good news is that research worldwide, especially in the UK, shows that gardens and bumblebeedesigned hedgerows sustain bumblebee populations. If we bother to invest in bumblebee friendly landscapes in urban centres and the rural countryside, we can bring back all the native bees which includes our wild bumblebees. What is certain is that the three habitats that bumblebees need: a) north facing slopes, for winter hibernation b) warm slopes, for nesting c) abundant sources of nectar and pollen are disappearing fast due to unconscious land the development. I expect that bumblebees coming to blueberry and cranberry fields are nesting within one kilometer of the field and probably right around these fields. Bumbles need overwintering hibernation sites for mated queens, as bumblebee nests are annual, like the other native bees that live here. In the spring, bumblebee queens emerge from hibernation and find nesting sites to raise the few hundred worker bumblebees and the male and virgin female bees that will carry the species to the next year. This means that habitat protection for bumblebees to be able to overwinter and nest successfully is essential to sustain our small fruit food production.

However, to keep bumblebees around, they need to be fed adequately after these crops bloom through March to late April. In the past, farms grew acres of clover on whole fields that would feed bumbles after they pollinated the economic crops. Now, farms are disappearing taking this source of nectar and pollen away from all species of bees. The main reason for bee decline is the loss of nectar and pollen production over the whole landscape. Natural systems like our Garry Oak Reserves are covered by up to 85% bee pollinated, nectar and pollen producing plants. The challenge then is to cover our gardens and hedgerows with 85% bee- pollinated nectar and pollen producing plants. Since native habitat is scarce and highly disconnected, I suspect that native flowers can no longer feed native bees adequately and certainly not honeybees. I do not see patches of flowers getting bigger in ecoreserves. This underlines an urgent need to install a network of bumblebee gardens for feeding bumblebees after the bloom of the crops.

Deerholme Farm dog Oliver sitting in nettles and morels

NOT JUST TOFINO ANYMORE

UP TO 3X DAILY Up to 5x daily starting May 17th

THE NORTH ISLAND EXPRESS Port Hardy / Campbell River / Courtenay / Nanaimo / Vancouver / Ladysmith / Duncan / Chemainus / Victoria

TOFINO EXPRESS Vancouver / Victoria / Nanaimo / Parksville / Port Alberni / Toﬁno

VANCOUVER FERRY SHUTTLE Horseshoe Bay Ferry Terminal to and from Vancouver Bus Depot (more details link)

See our schedule: Toﬁnobus.com

Cowichan Spring Foraging

ild foods are all around us. Sometimes they are called nasty names like weeds and invasive species (which they can be). They can be incredible nutritious and often very tasty. Native plants are ones that have existed here for many thousands of years like camus bulbs, grand fir needles and huckleberries – to name a few. By the way, I would not encourage people to forage for camus, one of the varieties has the interesting nickname name “Death Camus” – so that’s a hint you might want to avoid this plant. The other foraging group is the large and imposing group of introduced plants. Most of the good edible plants we find were introduced only in the past couple of hundred years or so. This group includes most of the common weeds such as dandelion, pepper cress and oxeye daisy. These were brought to North America by the early settlers as potage (soup) herbs or as medicinal plants. They escaped and thrived everywhere, and I do mean everywhere. Essentially it takes a lot of plant energy to survive in the wild. This translates to higher levels of vitamins, minerals, anti-oxidants and something called phytonutrients. These components are becoming more important in maintaining a good healthy immune system and reputed to help fight off disease and in particular cancer. Plus they taste great. Many of the greens have a

peppery and bitter edge to their taste. These elements are very good for promoting circulation and creating a healthy digestive system. This can help you revive your system after a winter spent curled up with a book or perhaps these days an e-book. One of the best spring tonics is the stinging nettle. Look in many of the ditches around the valley and you will likely see a deep lush green bouquet of nettle lining the bottom. The stinging part comes from the edges of the leaves, which has tiny needle like barbs which inject histamine into your skin. The effect lasts for a few minutes and is not really painful. In fact many folk remedies for arthritis relief (temporary) involves purposefully rubbing the leaf on infected joints for a beneficial effect. Local First Nations also used the nettles to keep themselves alert and awake for rituals that required their attention for many hours of mediation. Nettles are eaten in mainly in the spring - as tea, soups and vegetables in many parts of the world. You may be surprised to learn they are a favourite food in Tibet and Northern India, often mixed with wonderful curried spices to form purees and sautéed vegetables. Bill Jones is a chef, author and food consultant based on Deerholme farm. Reach him at www.deerholme.com

West Coast Choir Festival

nce again Brentwood College School will host the West Coast Concert Choir Festival in the fabulous T. Gill Bunch Theatre on April the 20th. We have a full line of eight participating choirs during the day, and an evening concert featuring five of Vancouver Island’s finest choirs. Three esteemed adjudicators will adjudicate our daytime choirs; Dr. Adam Con, Erica Phare-Bergh and Brian Wismath. The daytime school choirs include; Discovery Elementary, Glanford Middle, Gulf Islands, Ballenas, Lambrick, Shawnigan Lake and Brentwood College. In the evening your choral treat called

“West Coast April Choirs”, will include; Vox Humana Chamber Choir, directed by Brian Wismath, the Cowichan Valley Youth Choir, directed by Sheila Johnson, Brentwood College Vocal Ensemble, directed by Phil Newns and Tristan Clausen, South Island Harmony, directed by Allan Jacques and the Soundings Vocal Ensemble, directed by Denis Donnelly. So mark your calendars for an outstanding day and evening of choral entertainment. There is no charge to attend the daytime choir performances and adjudications. The daytime choirs perform from 9 a.m. until 3 p.m. In the evening our show starts at 7 p.m. and we ask for a $10 or more donation at the door, proceeds going towards the CMS Food Bank. For more about the festival visit; festival.brentwood. bc.ca or e-mail phil.newns@ brentwood.bc.ca

Eat, Drink and Support Local

All organic! Cold-Pressed Juices + Juice Cleanses + Smoothies + Elixirs + Raw Food + Bulletproof Coffee

Try A Glow Cleanse! Whether it’s to lose weight, get in shape, or to start eating healthy, an Organic Glow Juice Cleanse is a great way to accelerate your health goals.

Mustard Greens Cam MacDonald is a market gardener and sometime writer living in the Cowichan Valley.

Call, come in, or book online at www.glowjuicery.ca. 250 597 2595 3-5380 Trans Canada Hwy, Duncan

Cowichan Camerata String Orchestra

A Weekend in The Work of Byron Katie

The Cowichan Camerata String Orchestra presents A Suite Spring on Friday, April 20th. 730pm at Duncan United Church, 246, Ingram St., Duncan. With special guest, Annick Richardson, clarinet soloist. Tickets $15 Adult, $5 Student, $30 Family. Available at the door or phone Gill 250 701 0748.

limiting beliefs that cause your suffering. Using this simple yet radical process, set yourself free to live an inspired and peaceful life. Surati is a certified facilitator with 10+ years experience. April 21-22 Loving What Is - A Weekend in The Work of Byron Katie Duncan $195 Info 604-317-7323 www.surati.ca

ustard greens--grow them! eat them! I place Mustards in the “miracle plant” category due their taste, their ability to grow in cold conditions, their beauty and their general appeal at the Farmer’s market. They are the first thing I sow in the spring and the last crop I plant in the fall. Cold hardy? Hells ya! I left one bed completely exposed all last winter and they are now producing new growth for early spring salads. Even kale doesn’t manage that every year! If taste is not enough for you, consider this: mustard greens contain very high amounts of vitamins A, K and E as well as calcium and iron. They also contain high levels of flavonoids, which are potent antioxidants (think cancerfighting).

The first warm days of late winter bring incremental growth to overwintering beds of mustards. By mid spring we are regaled by an avalanche of spicy reds, greens and purples in an assortment of gorgeous leaf shapes. Varieties sport evocative names: Tat soi, Mizuna, Tokyo bekana, Red dragon, Ruby streaks, Komatsuna. As summer approaches it is difficult to keep up with the growth rate of mustards, and their spiciness peaks. They flower quickly in a beautiful burst of yellow flowers, which make a sweet and colourful addition to salads. This rapid tendency to bolt makes growing mustards in summer tricky; but that’s okay because by then it seems our palates are ready for the velvety sweetness of lettuces anyway. Besides, in early fall we may once again return to our cool loving friends--mustards!

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9738 Willow St, Chemainus 250-246-9838 Hours Mon-Sat 930-530 • Sun 12-4 Closed Stat holidays

Valley Voice Magazine - Your Monthly Guide to Living in the Cowichan Valley

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Marie Seitcher

VIU COWICHAN’S FARM-TO-TABLE TEACHING RESTAURANT NOW OPEN YEAR-ROUND

he Farm Table dining room at Providence Farm is a jewel in Cowichan Valley’s culinary crown Marie Seitcher, a 34-year-old from Songhese First Nation has spent the past seven months learning at The Farm Table dining room, VIU’s teaching kitchen and fine dining restaurant at Providence Farm, a nonprofit, therapeutic community in the Cowichan Valley. Since

2013, the University has run the farm-to-table experience out of the farmhouse on-site, giving students the chance to experience all aspects of running a restaurant, from working in the kitchen to greeting, seating and serving customers. Another unique aspect of the program is that students work in the gardens and learn about growing and harvesting the food they use in the dishes. “It gives us a good, wellrounded experience in how to run and operate a restaurant,” says Seitcher, who drives up from Victoria to participate in the four-day-a-week program. “We learn firsthand how to be a hostess, server, dishwasher, prep cook, chef and baker. It’s unique for a post-secondary program, which is why I chose to come here. My end goal is to run my own restaurant, so this is great experience. And growing your own food is a lot easier than I thought - I’ve started my own garden at home now.”

This fall, VIU added a second cohort of 14 students, allowing the restaurant to stay open year-round. It will mean double the amount of students can get their Professional Cook Level 1 training in the Cowichan Valley. “This additional PC1 program will make all the difference in the restaurant operation,” says Keith Chicquen, Instructional Director for VIU Cowichan. “We can now have it open year-round, creating consistency and dependability. Everyone, including our partners at Providence Farm, is excited about the additional programming.” Jason Lloyd, a VIU Culinary Arts instructor who runs the Farm to Table program, says there’s a growing market for local food dining options across the Island and many of their patrons come to support not only the students, but also the local-first concept. “The Cowichan Valley is becoming a foodie destination and I think the popularity of the

farm-to-table restaurant model is only going to continue to grow,” he says. “The produce and proteins we use are very, very local - well within 100 miles. Much of it is from Providence Farm, when they have enough. This program exposes students to the local way of doing things right from the beginning, which I hope will influence their purchasing decisions later when they are chefs.” Lloyd says there are still plenty of local foods students can cook with all winter. “I think the students appreciate the product we get in - it’s fresh and it’s local, which means all the fruits and veggies have so much flavour,” says Lloyd. “I think they also appreciate they’re cooking things that challenge their skills.” To learn more, and check out the menu, visit The Farm Table dining room homepage. If you’re interested in becoming a student, click here or call Registration at VIU Cowichan Campus at 250.746.3500.

Michael Abbott Studied Ecology in Montreal, manages Blue Grouse vineyards and is a part time beekeeper

his time of year on the vineyard the vines are sharing their stories. The trunks are old and they many scars from the pruners past. With each season a pruner chooses and leaves certain canes that ultimately changes the way the vine will grow. The prunerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s goal is to drive back last yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s growth and center the plants energy for this yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s cycle. When you look at a thirty year old vine

on the vineyard its stature is shrouded by a thousand cuts. The vine itself however is always misleading since the trunk and canes are merely the tip of the iceberg. A vineyard is built underground and all wine that pours into your glass starts with the soil. A vineyards soil is a matrix of roots, soil and most importantly microbial life. In agriculture there has been a historical tendency to ignore the microscopic allies in our practices. It is now well documented that soil ecology is an important aspect to crop health. Even the words we use to talk about soil have shifted from fertile soil to healthy soil, indicating a change in our perspective. Our vineyard is well established or simply put it is old. Many seasons and cycles have come and gone and our vines are standing in the same place they always have. This makes soil management at Blue Grouse all the more important. Over the last few years our practices have shifted from

Blue Grouse vineyards manager, Michael Abbott holding a propagated vine that will be planted this year to show how deep the roots of such a small plant can be.

Roots, Shoots And Tendrils conventional viticulture to a more natural or organic practice. We are hard at work building our soils and designing our vineyard expansion to be as sustainable as possible. We dedicated a large buffer of riparian habitat to protect our local fauna which help us control pests. We use non-synthetic chemicals that have minimal potential of leaching and our

end goal is to have Organic certification. All of this is working towards creating a diverse soil ecosystem that allows our vines to thrive. Healthy soil equals happy vines. Next time you drink a bottle of your favourite wine give a toast to the ground it came from.

Valley Voice Magazine - Your Monthly Guide to Living in the Cowichan Valley

A Brief History of Ancient Wheat and How it has Changed Bruce Stewart is co-owner of True Grain Bread and former President of Cittaslow Cowichan

heat is the #1 staple of the human diet in many parts of the world. As a small-scale miller and bakery owner, people ask me a lot about wheat and the different types, particularly in light of the demonization of the main protein in wheat called gluten. The objective of this article is to help you understand what the ancient wheats are and some of the key reasons in which they are different from the modern varieties. The earliest type of wheat is called Einkorn. It has 14 chromosomes compared to modern wheat which has 42. Einkorn mills very nicely, almost like white flour. It is easily digestible by many who suffer from (non-celiac) wheat allergies. The downside of Einkorn is that it is very expensive. It yields very poorly per acre vs. wheat or even Spelt. The economic upside for the local economy is that it is grown in BC; unfortunately this past summer our farmer lost his crop to the BC wildfires. The second earliest type of wheat is Emmer. Emmer has 28 chromosomes. Emmer and Einkorn) were the first crops that humans grew, and essentially enabled our evolution from that of roaming nomad to farmer. It was Emmer being referred to

as “the staff of life” and “our daily bread” in the bible. Emmer tends to be grittier than Einkorn or modern wheat and is more difficult to bake with, even when sifted. On the upside, Emmer is also more easily digestible than modern wheat for many people. Emmer is also grown in BC. It is worth noting that Einkorn and Emmer are not classified as wheat in Europe. The third of the ancient wheats is called Khorasan. The most famous variety of Khorasan wheat is Kamut®. In the fifties some grain kernels were discovered when excavating an Egyptian tomb. The kernels were planted and they grew! They were eventually trademarked and marketed as Kamut®. Khorasan, being an ancient wheat, is generally very tolerable on one’s digestion. Khorasan is also grown in BC. The last of the ancient grains, and most popular is Spelt. Spelt has 42 chromosomes and is a hulled wheat. Removing the hull requires an extra step in the cleaning process. As a result of this, Spelt was largely ignored as humans began to tinker with un-hulled wheat varieties to drive down costs and feed the world. Spelt has a really unique flavour and is wonderful to bake with. The early adopters of Spelt were those who started to notice modern wheat giving them digestive or skin issues, and Spelt was a great alternative. Fast forward to today. The ancient grains are making somewhat of a comeback. Most of the aforementioned are widely available, and each are grown in BC. The reality, however, is that 99% of the wheat used in Canada is a modern variety. It is important to understand that wheat and the processing

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involved has changed in 4 key areas: milling, breeding, enhancement and homogeneity. I will touch briefly on each. Milling – Every community used to have a stone mill, where the harvest was freshly ground and used in the community. It was rudimentary technology, so the resulting flour, even when sifted, still maintained a good portion of the outer kernel (bran). Early communities benefitted from this process because the bran contains most of the nutrients in the kernel and is a high source of fibre. Today, milling is done centrally in large volumes using highly efficient technology. The processing is so effective that the resulting flour is essentially pure carbohydrate and void of any of the bran. The body treats it like a sugar. Breeding – It is estimated there are over 25,000 varieties of wheat that have been developed in the last 30 years. The breeding is done to maximize the good traits and minimize the less desirable ones. Suffice to say, over time, human ingenuity was able to overcome many obstacles: Grows too tall? Dwarf it. Season is too long? Shorten it. Doesn’t carry enough wheat berries per plant? Increase it. The downside is, new research suggests that up to 5% of proteins are newly created in hybridization of grain each time. (i.e. the protein doesn’t exist in either parent). When that happens enough times, the protein structure (gluten) of first wheat going in is vastly different from the newly created protein structure (gluten) of 25,000th one coming out. Could this help to explain why more people seem to have difficulty digesting wheat? Enhancement. Canadian Law has specific rules for “white

flour”. It must be enriched with vitamins and minerals such as iron, thiamine and riboflavin. In addition, the law also allows many chemicals to be added. These agents serve one of 3 purposes; to bleach, to preserve or to improve baking properties. None of the chemicals such as chlorine, benzoyl peroxide, azidobicarbonate or l-cysteine or a host of others need to be declared on the label. Unless it specifically says unbleached and untreated, it likely has been. How is it acceptable that our food labelling laws permit this? It is interesting to note that the EU does not allow many of the agents that Canada does. Have you ever heard someone say something to the effect of “We went to Europe and were able to eat the bread without a problem”. Homogeneity - In 1935, The Canadian Wheat Board was established. It was implemented to bundle all grain producers in the Prairies and guarantee a market and market price for grain farmers. This was great economically as Canada could reach export markets very effectively and it was good for the farmer who was guaranteed a customer at a good price. The downside was lack of biodiversity and as a result of consumer choice. If we employed the same strategy to the wine business, you could enjoy a merlot, a merlot or a merlot. I believe that the renewed interest in the ancient wheat varieties is more than a passing fad. Each delivers a unique flavour experience, all of them are grown in BC and they are all still niche enough that they are processed by small producers. I hope this information was helpful for you to make informed choices for you and your family.

History Glass: Vermouth Edition Jessica Schacht is a local writer and co-founder of Ampersand Distilling Company

Upcoming EVENTS Morel Mushroom Dinner Saturday, April 21 Morel Mushroom Cooking Class Sunday, April 29

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his month we’re looking at an often scoffed at wine-based ingredient in the cocktail cabinet:Vermouth. The name comes from the German “wormwood” or “vermut”. Vermouth is a Frenchification of that German name. But the aromatised wine has origins going back as far as 400BC in ancient Greece, where Hippocrates created a version known as Hippocratic wine. Wormwood was the main ingredient and it was touted for its healing properties. Like many classic ingredients, vermouth continued to be marketed as a medicinal tonic until the middle ages. Though vermouth is often referred to as French or Italian style, those were actually regions in the ancient kingdom of Savoy. They had an abundance of grapes that made less than stellar wine. The fix? Spruce it up with herbs and spices. The winemakers would collect botanicals from nearby, and being located on trade routes, also had access to new ingredients like cardamom and cinnamon. The beverage’s popularity grew across the courts of the King of Savoy and in the Court of Bavaria. In 1786 the first commercial vermouth

The Addington

2 oz sweet vermouth (try Odd Society’s Bittersweet Vermouth) 1 oz dry vermouth (try Imperative Dry Vermouth, from Rathjen Cellars & Ampersand Distilling Co.) Stir ingredients with ice. Strain into a chilled cocktail glass. Garnish with an orange twist. *Photo caption* “Testing martinis while developing Imperative Dry Vermouth” was created by Antonio Benetto Carpano (think Carpano Antica Formula – a delicious vermouth still available today). After that, men with names like Noily, Cinzano, Martini & Rossi, Dolin, Lillet, and Cocchi all commercialized versions of their own. Now, back to that vermouth in your cabinet. These days vermouth is best known for its inclusion in drinks like the Martini and the Manhattan, and for using higher quality wine to a higher quality taste. Being a wine-based aperitif, it has a relatively short shelf life (especially compared to the gin and whiskey you pair it with) and should be kept in the fridge and enjoyed within 3 months. Vermouth is excellent to cook with, especially if it’s getting on the older side. Recently at Ampersand Distilling Co. we’ve been working on

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HUGE Marine Garage Sale

Image Jessica Schacht

our own vermouth recipe, BC’s first Dry Vermouth, in collaboration with Rathjen Cellars, a farm-based winery located just outside Victoria. They are committed to working with 100% Vancouver Island fruit & passionate about bringing under-utilized farmland back to health and into production. Ampersand brings that ancient tradition of botanicals from the doorstep (in our case, wormwood we’ve grown on our farm) with those exciting spices from afar, including cardamom & orange peel. The result: Imperative Dry Vermouth, made from a blend of Ortega & Auxerrois grapes, organic spirit, and botanicals like wormwood, coriander, chamomile, and orange peel. It is a craft vermouth best enjoyed as an aperitif or in a martini. Another lovely cocktail celebrating Vermouth? A vintage drink using both sweet and dry varieties, The Addington. The cocktail’s history is unknown so instead, think of all the history in your glass from the grapes, the spices, and the spirit of vermouth.

he Cowichan Bay Maritime Heritage Centre invites you to attend our Huge Marine Garage Sale, Saturday, April 14th. The sale will be full of donated marine treasures, tools and equipment. You are welcome to rent a table for $25 and sell your own nautical treasures. The tables will be placed in front of the Cowichan Maritime Heritage Centre under a huge tent. The proceeds of the event are directed towards our pier restoration project. The focus of the project is to replace the old creosote pilings with steel pilings, which are safer for the environment. The anticipated cost of the project is expected to reach $500,000. The Pier is the focal point of the area’s maritime heritage and is an important tourist attraction. The structure has hosted many Cowichan area celebrations, meetings, maritime recreation and educational presentations for groups or individuals including North America’s first “Cittaslow” community, and the Cowichan Valley Dragon Divas dragon boat team. The Cowichan Bay Maritime Heritage Centre is an active, community-based maritime museum is operated by the Cowichan Wooden Boat Society,

a non-profit organization founded 30 years ago in order to preserve, exhibit and demonstrate the Maritime heritage and culture of wooden boats. Buyers and sellers are welcome between 9 am and closing at

3pm. Early refreshments will be available on site. No gate crashers please. To rent a table or drop of donation items, please call reception at 250-746-4955.

Mindful Inquiry using The Work of Byron Katie Four Questions that can change your life! Weekend Workshop April 21-22 Intro Evening April 18, 7pm

Info: 604-317-7323 I surati.ca “Identify and question the beliefs that keep you stuck, create conﬂict with others and leave you feeling at odds with the world. Using this simple yet radical process, we can ﬁnd peace in all aspects of life.”

Feed Your Gut Wisely, Enable A Healthier Body Tina Foster, RHN is a registered holistic nutritionist in Duncan MineTheHarvest@ hotmail.com 2507488774

he words “microbiome” and “probiotic” are becoming more and more common knowledge. They are not new concepts, they have always existed. Science and research has uncovered and still is discovering more about our gut ecosystems and the bacteria that dwell there. Your microbiome is the world of bacteria that live in your gut and the balance between the good and bad which effects

your state of health in so many ways. Probiotics are the good bacteria that serve us on so many levels including digestion, immunity, brain and mood, metabolism, and much much more! A healthy and properly functioning intestinal tract can manufacture some of these bacteria and it is in our best interest to consume them in the form of fermented foods(traditional sauerkraut, miso, kimchi, natto, kombucha, yogurt, aged cheese, etc.). In conjunction with fermented foods, a probiotic supplement can be most beneficial, especially when we are compromised. Not all are created equal however, and there is a lot on the market which can be very confusing. Since we are all so very different, its important to find what works with YOUR body. Choosing one with live multiple strains and one that ensures or guarantees successful delivery through your stomach acid is a great place to start.

Dr. Formulated is a highly recommended probiotic developed by neurologist and nutrition expert Dr. David Perlmutter. These high quality probiotic supplements contain clinically tested strains that have been tested for acid and bile resistance. The line consists of a daily use or condition-specific science based formulas for added benefit for brain/mood, urinary health, men, or women. Free of dairy, soy, and gluten, and available for the refrigerator or shelf-staple travel, these are probiotics that come with an alive guarantee and help make getting your daily probiotics convenient.

Friendly gut bacteria are essential for all of the parts of our body to function synergistically well, together. Like everything, balance is key. I highly encourage you to do some research on the importance of the health of your microbiome, read Dr. Perlmutters’ amazing “make sense” articles and ongoing research, and to consider a high quality probiotic supplement. And yes, enjoy eating fermented food and herbs!

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Valley Voice Magazine - Your Monthly Guide to Living in the Cowichan Valley

CELEBRATE CITTASLOW COWICHAN

ome and celebrate Cittaslow Cowichan with us and enjoy culinary creations of our local Cowichan Chefs, along with the finest in Cowichan wines and spirits. We will have chefs demonstrating a variety of dishes with locally sourced ingredients and you can pair their offerings with fabulous wines and other spirits, all produced in our beautiful valley. The main goal of the evening is to raise funds to create two yearly Cittaslow awards: The “Brock McLeod Award” for best sustainable farm practices, in memory of a

beloved local farmer Brock McLeod of Makaria Farm who owned and operated Malaria Farm with his wife Heather. Through hard work, education and determination Brock demonstrated that out was possible to farm organically to feed themselves and their community on 10 acres of A-1 land in the Agricultural Land Reserve (ALR) in Cowichan Station, plus 65 acres of leased ALR land in Cowichan Bay. At the peak of their farming career, at age 35, Brock was diagnosed with terminal cancer. He passed away on September 20, 2017 leaving behind a legacy. Cittaslow Cowichan will keep his memory alive with this annual award. The second is the “Cittaslow Environmental Award” given to a company or organization

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that best demonstrates sustainable environmental practices. For more information on this event which celebrates the best the Cowichan Valley has to offer, and mingle with others who care about sustaining everything that makes our valley so special, get your tickets directly at celebratecittaslowcowichan. eventbrite.com To learn more about Cittaslow Cowichan, visit our website https://www. cittaslowcowichan.com

Saturday & Sunday Brunch Featuring our famous crêpes & bennys!

1765 COWICHAN BAY RD • 250 597 7373

Cowichan Bay became the first internationally

recognized Cittaslow community in North America in 2009 after a group of dedicated citizens and businesses partnered with the CVRD to obtain the designation, and we are reaching out to Cowichan Valley to expand our Cittaslow community across the valley. We are one of 236 communities in 30 countries who have made a choice to slow down and celebrate where we live. Thursday, April 26, 6 PM to 8:30 PM, Oceanfront Suites at Cowichan Bay, 1681 Cowichan Bay Rd. www.cittaslowcowichan.org

Arwen Schmaus

Studio on Herd Road Bonnie Schmaus Arwen Schmaus 250-748-1678 1878 Herd Road Duncan Bonnie Schmaus

hile living in Victoria Bonnie studied fine furniture building, and then began a custom furniture business. It was all very exciting, with lots of hard work. Initially, she gave up weekends and evenings. As her customer base grew, so did her skills. She enjoyed the beauty and pace of Victoria, yet there was something missing. A longing for those country roots brought Bonnie over the Malahat to this Cowichan Valley. Many of

her customers enjoyed the drive from Victoria to the new studio. Clearly, it was a good move. Bonnie’s daughter Arwen, joined the business and enjoys the variety of pieces that make their way to the studio. Arwen says, “Mixing eras and styles is a fun way of making a room interesting. The lines of these pieces may be very different. The fabrics chosen are what makes them compatible. And the styles of the accents (pillows, rugs, lighting) play a part. Magazines are a great inspiration, helping you see what is possible”. The most challenging pieces can be the most rewarding. “Restoring an armchair, long forgotten in an attic or basement, is the best. Sometimes such pieces take more work and patience but the transformation is so satisfying. These older antiques are so well crafted and designed.” Bonnie adds, “They seem to bring something magical to a home, just like a well loved painting. We aim to create works that are functional and aesthetically pleasing. And as many natural products as possible, are used.” Bonnie and Arwen are building up an inventory of restored antiques for purchase at their studio. Paintings and home accents will also be available. They are creating a new line of linen pillows with leather appliques. Some will be feather filled, very comfy!

Art deco style chair fully restored and covered in quill patterned cotton with leather trim and antique finished tacks. Photo Arwen Schmaus

Talking Arts Arwen and Bonnie Schmaus of Studio on Herd Road www.Bonnie Schmaus.com Come see their studio on the Cowichan Artisans Spring Tour. April 13, 14, & 15. All artisans will have their studios open Friday to Sunday 10-5. From elegant pottery in Ladysmith to fine furniture in Cobble Hill. And some surprises in-between. cowichanartisans.com.

The Birdbath, Acrylic on Canvas Bonnie Schmaus

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Valley Voice Magazine - Your Monthly Guide to Living in the Cowichan Valley

Cowichan Artisans Spring Tour

ver wonder what it takes to be a full-time artisan? Where does artistic inspiration come from? Over the course of three days, twelve professional, full-time artisans will open their studio doors to share experiences and showcase their work. Each piece of work is original and each, a labour of love reflecting the highest professional standards. “Our tours encompass work through many mediums but the thread that weaves us together as a group is rooted in high-quality creation of art in the Cowichan Valley” Says founding member Cathi Jefferson. “...we aim to inspire those that walk through and experience our spaces”. Cathi Jefferson has been creating pottery for over 40 years. Inspired by the natural environment that

surrounds her, alongside the Cowichan River, her studio is a must see. Acrylic painter Laurel Hibbert draws memories of her childhood into her paintings. Her work is notable for its vibrant colour and its story telling quality. “Painting is my joy and I hope others find themselves experiencing that joy when they view my work.” Says Laurel. Ken Broadland’s main goal in turning wood is to present the wood’s beauty in a useable form. His Heartwood Studio is nestled in woodland next to his log home. Live Edge Design creates an art furniture experience by turning salvaged local wood into high quality furniture. See the tree’s journey from tree to table at their Duncan studio. Andreas & Naomi Kunert create timeless art pieces at the Ancient Art of Stone Studio Gallery. Their Inspiration flows directly from the pure forms and rhythms inherent within nature. Peggy Brackett works with color and creates a line of beautiful dichroic glass jewellery. Every

Laurel Hibbert at the easel in her animated style of painting

piece is carefully designed and crafted with a crisp, clean finish. Jo Ludwig is a self-taught fine glass artist best known for his glittering kiln-formed, one-of-akind ‘Things Of Beauty’. Mary Fox creates stunning forms in glass and ceramics in vivid tones and rich textures at her Ladysmith studio. Jennifer Lawson’s 1863 log house studio is the perfect place from which to paint. Jennifer has been creating scenes with watercolors

for over 40 years. Karen Trickett and Cam Russell of Coventry Woodworks, can be seen working on incredible furniture designs in their Cobble Hill studio. Arwen and Bonnie Schmaus are a mother/daughter team that custom design upholstered furniture in their studio on Herd Rd. See you on the Tour! Cowichan Artisans Spring Tour, April 13, 14, 15 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

OUT OF SEEN DAVID MARTINELLO

Wooden Boxes & More March 30 - May 4 Imagine That! Artisans’ Designs 251 Craig St., Downtown Duncan

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pening April 6th at The Ou Gallery is ‘Out of Seen,’ a collection of wood sculptures and abstract paintings by Mill Bay artist & craftsman, David Martinello. There is an intrinsic warmth and relationship with wood that has metaphoric and literal roots in our lives, and which Martinello brings to life through his textured mark-making and abstract painting; creating a layered and visceral experience for the viewer. “Learning within thresholds of wonderment, and inspired by the development of techniques to use for creative practice, the basis of my artistic evolution comes from experiences informed of material gazing. Managed by environmental queues and choices, my vocabulary for articulation is inspired by the characteristics of wood, the fluid elements of paint, and the relative complexities of lyrical relations.” Martinello’s paintings and sculptures were last shown together in 2015, and since then he has been reflecting on the way materials relate to each other within his practice as a visual artist. Encouraging the viewer to engage in an act of ‘looking,’ Out of Seen considers the formation of personal style, as well as the context in which art is shown, and materials explored. “Drawing from impressions found primarily within the attributes of wood and paint, lyrical relations are developed for an impasto-like vocabulary. The resulting process is a textured life that draws together impressions found within chosen materials through the use of craft.” Recently Martinello also been inspired by observing peers;

Accentation of Plane, David Martinello

ROBERT ANDREWS

in the artistic development of his young daughter, as well as the amazing energy & artists that the Ou Gallery has brought to the Cowichan Valley. This inspiration and creative development is revealed not only in Out of Seen but surfaces as part of the recent oneTree (at The Robert Bateman Centre) & Under|Where? group shows, and with greater proliferation of his furniture company, Alternative Woodworks. In addition, this coming summer a prestigious art commission in the Cowichan Valley will be unveiled to the public so we can anticipate exciting things to come for the artist! Learn more about David and his work: http://www. alternativewoodworks.com. ‘Out of Seen’ opens Friday April 6th from 6-8pm and runs until May 5 at The Ou Gallery. 3091 Agira Road, Duncan. FREE entry, doors open Tuesday – Saturday from 1 to 5pm. www.theougallery.com.

Valley Voice Magazine - Your Monthly Guide to Living in the Cowichan Valley

ARTISTS GET READY FOR SPRING FINE ARTS SHOW Submitted by Janet Magdanz

Koksilah at Bright Angel Park by Rory Macdonald

n oil painting of a Koksilah River landscape earned Rory MacDonald an award of excellence at last year’s Spring Fine Arts Show. “I was thrilled,” said MacDonald, who moved to Duncan from Alberta in 2016. Since then, the retired elementary school teacher has seen his style evolve as he tries to capture the diffused light of the coast in his oils, acrylics and watercolours. He is finishing another painting in time to submit it to the 48th annual Spring Fine Arts Show, to be held May 2 – 6. Registration for the show is online through the CVAC website April 5-8 or in person April 5-6. This year’s three

jurors – Susan Woolgar, Victor Arcega and Neil Newton – will decide on the Best in Show award as well as awards of excellence and honourable mentions. Produced by the Cowichan Valley Arts Council, the event is the largest non-juried art show on Vancouver Island. “It’s a diverse show,” said MacDonald. “It’s wonderful to open it up and give people a chance. There are lots of juried shows in the region, but many people feel intimidated by that.” He added that the social events at the show were supportive networking opportunities for a newcomer. There is an exclusive sponsor preview evening on April 30 as well as an artist evening (admission by donation) on May 1. Show coordinator Janet Magdanz said the show is open but offers a high level of quality, a great situation for art buyers looking for something new. “It is an entry place for emerging artists, but it can also be a forum for professionals,” said Magdanz. The show features the work of more than 160 artists from a broad range of disciplines including painting, sculpture, photography, jewellery, and multimedia.

TALK ON WILLIAM KURELEK

New this year: Up to 5 100 cubic foot sculptures Sculptor: Richard Young

Submitted by Susan Down

anadians who know William Kurelek as an illustrator from his beloved children’s books – A Prairie Boy’s Winter and A Prairie Boy’s Summer – may not be aware of his other more serious side. “People across Canada love his colours and folksy approach,” said Mary Jo Hughes, director of the University of Victoria Legacy Art Galleries. “They sometimes miss the deeper messages. But that is ok; he can be admired on many levels.” Hughes has made numerous presentations on Kurelek.

APRIL ART EVENTS CVAC GALLERY SHOWS

April 1-6 Warmland Calligraphers April 7-25 Cowichan Artisans April 1- 20 Five Voices of the Land

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April 5-8 Register for the CVAC Spring Fine Arts Show April 23 CVAC ﬁeld trip - Talk & Tour at UVic Legacy Gallery April 27-29 Abstracting the landscape (painting workshop)

2687 James St, Duncan (250) 746-1633 I cowichanvalleyartscouncil.ca

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250-732-2937 Her next lecture will be given especially for the Cowichan Valley Arts Council on April 23 in Victoria. “I was interested in Kurelek because his vision of the world is so unique and so utterly linked to his own ideals,” she said. “It is great to see someone who really believes in something and spends every waking minute of his life trying to get that message across. He truly believed that he was on this earth to save people from evil.” Born in Alberta, to an immigrant family from what is now Ukraine, Kurelek endured a harsh childhood on the Prairies during the Depression and the Second World War. They farmed a quarter section of grain, later moving first to Manitoba and then Ontario. The sensitive boy would later explore his emotions in paintings that resemble

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1- 855-622-5932 works by Hieronymus Bosch. Kurelek earned a degree at U of Manitoba and later attended the Ontario College of Art and studied in San Miguel de Allende, Mexico. Hughes is impressed by the artist’s dedication. “His artwork, so beautiful in colour, detail, and composition is full of subtle and unsubtle messages,” she said. “He took this approach and stuck to it, at a time when what was “in vogue” was abstraction. He didn’t care what other artists were doing. He stuck to his vision and approach.” Since seating is limited, contact CVAC to register ahead of time for this afternoon presentation on Monday April 23 at UVic’s Legacy Gallery. Contact: cheryl@ cowichanvalleyartscouncil.ca

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hododendrons are the most widely grown ornamental plant on the west coast. They are evergreen, have spectacular blooms between February and June, depending on the variety and are deer resistant. Many varieties are sun tolerant, but their preferred location is being in the understory of tall trees. Many of our properties have tall trees suitable for growing Rhododendrons. Most varieties originate from species found in the Himalayan mountains with summer monsoon rains. Our climate is Mediterranean with dry summers, making it critical that they receive summer irrigation. With their shallow roots, they are sensitive to drying out and like a constant supply of decaying organic. Regular fertilizing is

June and enjoy interesting textures of foliage the rest of the year.

beneficial, but the critical time to feed is as the blooms fade and new growth develops. Using a high phosphorus fertilizer, flower buds are set for the following year by September and are visible by their large plump appearance. There are hundreds of varieties to choose from, many developed by breeders in our area. One can plant a sequence of plants that blooming from February to

Cultural requirements for Rhododendrons are basic. They must have drainage during our wet winters but receive water in our dry summers. Being shallow rooted, they need fresh organic material spread underneath from time to time. A balanced fertilizer should be applied regularly and lightly with the main feeding after blooming. If they are not happy in a location, their shallow compact roots allow them to be moved almost anytime with little shock. There few pests with the common ones being root weevils chewing notches along the leaf edges in late spring and leaf blotches from stress or too much moisture. With basic care any garden should have a place for these lovely shrubs. Bernie Dinter Horticulturist and owner of Dinter’s Nursery

The Genus Rhododendron

n Saturday April 28th the Cowichan Rhododenron Society holds it’s annual Garden Fair at the Cowichan Exhibition Grounds from 10-2pm. But where did the Rhododendron come from?

in China and the Himalaya.

Names such as Ernest Wilson (known as Chinese Wilson) , Frank Kingdon Ward, and George Forrest were among the greatest contributors to the popularization of rhododendrons in the western world. Travelling under very The ubiquitous harsh and often dangerous Rhododendron is found conditions, they collected everywhere nowadays. herbarium specimens, and Part of the foundation seed, which were sent back planting in front of a to England to be germinated house, planted in beds in and grown on to assess garden the local park, or popping worthiness. Rafting down up as roadside plantings in swollen rivers in flood, inching a new subdivision. But the across precarious bridges of rhododendron is relatively bamboo and hemp rope, and new as a garden plant in often hiding from hostile the western world, and natives, they risked life and achieved its heyday in the limb to collect new plants and Thirties, mostly as a result send them back to Europe. of intensive plant hunting

Although the rhododendron was familiar in Europe from a subalpine rhodo in the Alps, and Rh. ponticum in the 1700’s, the large flowered and exotic looking plants of the mysterious east were unknown at the time and created a sensation when those early plants eventually flowered. With the appearance of the more exotic and glamorous Chinese and Himalayan introductions, Rhodomania took a firm hold on the gardening elite in the twenties and thirties. The large and wealthy gardens would sponsor plant hunting expeditions by subscribing to them. Upon the collector’s return, seed was distributed to the gardens to be germinated and grown on. The first big garden I worked at in Ireland had been a contributor to some of the Kingdon Ward expeditions, and there were

Valley Voice Magazine - Your Monthly Guide to Living in the Cowichan Valley

Rh. Ginny Gee - a dwarf floriferous Rhodo hybrid close to its species roots, Photo Barrie Agar

rhodos in the garden that carried the prized KW number, indicating it originated directly from seed collected on these trips. George Forrest sent back so much seed , the early subscribers to his expeditions ended up with many more plants than they had planned on. This perhaps led to the first “woodland” gardens as the landowners began planting excess new rhododendrons beyond the cultivated garden and into the woodland beyond. Vancouver Island became a major player in the Rhododendron world, with the development of the Greig’s Royston Nursery in the 1920’s and 30’s.. They too received seed from some of these collections, and propagated these new plants, as well as hybridizing. Their small nursery on the edge of the western world was well known in Europe and Britain as an important source of species and hybrids, and they imported from the major nurseries in England and Scotland. Royston hybrids grown today include Harry Carter and Buchanan Simpson. The first rhodos from the far east were species, not the hybrids we are accustomed to today. They are no less magnificent, although their colours may be purer and simpler than the artists palette we have now. Among them were some of the large leafed species such as Rh. sino grande with leaves up to three feet long, Rh. arizelem, with dark rusty indumentum under dark green polished leaves, and Rh arboreum , the tree rhododendron with flowers’ colour varying according to

the altitude it was collected at. Red indicated lower elevations and valleys, pink from mid elevations, and white flowered plants were from the top of their range. If a Rhodo that can grow to 40’ is a little too large for you, the arboreum hybrid ‘Sir Charles Lemon’ will give you an attractive plant to about 6’ , and strong attractive foliage. Growing the species is very rewarding, and many of them have very distinctive foliage, giving an exotic and tropical air to the garden. Those of the Falconera subsection, with large green leaves, and white to cream to pink flowers these plants are notable even when not in flower. They are often single stemmed and more tree like than the Rhodos we are used to, lending an architectural quality to the landscape. Rh. magnificum from the Tibet –Burma border forma a large broad shrub with pale pink flowers with darker edgings, and large glossy leaves. One of my favourites is Rh. williamsianum, a compact Rhodo with distinctive rounded leaves, and a smaller delicate pink flowers . It forms a shrub of 5’ x5’ so is useful for a smaller garden. Then just as the flowers are fading the new growth comes in a strong reddish colour, extending its season in the garden. Another fine foliage plant is Rh. bureavii, from the open pine forests of northern Yunnan in China. This has glossy green oblong leaves with a thick rusty indumentum on the underside. Indumentum is a wooly or hairy covering of the underside of the leaves or stem. The flowers are white with crimson marks.

R. bureavii has been a prolific parent in many crosses and there are numerous children such as Gretzel and Hansel which are readily available. So far we have talked about the larger and more imposing species, however they are some very attractive and hardy dwarf species, that while requiring good sharp drainage as all rhodos do, prefer to grow out in the open , and will not grow up to block your windows, or your sight lines as you attempt to reverse out onto the street. These rhodos are generally hardier, and range in size from 6” up to 4 ‘. They tend to have smaller aromatic leaves, and small clusters of flowers , resembling an azalea more so than their taller cousins. They come in a dazzling array of colours, from intense purple to blood red, shocking pink to a pure white and yellow. Look for names such as Rh. impeditum blooming a good purple in April ,and topping out at about one foot. Rose Elf is a charming pink to about two feet. Rh. cephalanthemum is almost unrecognizable as a rhodo, looking like a bonsai with smooth tan stems, and miniature whitish pink flowers.

This has been a brief journey into the world of the rhododendron, a quick dipping of the toes in this vast pool. There are thousands of species and hybrids in all shapes, sizes, and colours. Although you can have rhodos blooming from January to August, May is the prime month for seeing rhododendron gardens such as Milner Gardens in Qualicum Beach, or Finnerty Gardens at the University of Victoria. If you are interested in more information on varieties that will do well in the Cowichan Valley, you can talk to your local nursery or the Cowichan Valley Rhododendron Society - http://cowichanrhodos. ca/ Visit us at the Cowichan Valley Garden Fair on Saturday April 28th at the Cowichan Exhibition Grounds. There, local and visiting nurseries and garden related vendors will have their plants and wares on display. Come early for the best selection! Barrie Agar, Head Gardener at Hatley Park National Historic Site/ Royal Roads University, and the President of the Cowichan Valley Rhododendron Society.

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Cut Broom in Bloom

cotch broom is a disaster for our ecosystem, and a fire danger in our communities. North Cowichan Council is completely aligned with Broombusters’ goal of eradicating Scotch broom, and is looking into future by-laws and initiatives to draw more volunteers. Primary concerns for Council are the extreme fire hazard that broom creates because of high oil content and dry branches, and the dense thickets of broom under utility corridors. This alien invasive plant spreads rapidly, strangles native plants, and even prevents forest re-growth. But we can stop it! Cut broom in bloom - or near bloom – before seed pods form. Cut flush to the ground. The cut plant will die in the summer’s heat. Don’t pull, as disturbing the soil will encourage more seeds to germinate. Go after new infestations

first. Stop the spread. Watch Broombuster videos for correct technique. It’s not that hard! There are Broombuster groups from Campbell River to Cobble Hill. So far the groups in the Cowichan Valley are in the South End, Chemainus and Maple Bay. How about where you live? Do you have a road or area you care about? Contact your friends – and Broombusters! info@broombusters.org. www.Broombusters.org By Joanne Sales, Director of Broombusters Invasive Plant Society www.broombusters.org

APRIL STEPS TO TAKE

• Adopt a road, park or green space • Gather tools and friends • Watch videos to learn techniques • Contact Broombusters before you start to arrange broom disposal • Go out two hours or more. • Have fun. • Cut Broom in Bloom! It works! www.broombusters.org

s d t Q f t t f L a o g i l h r

T C o i C R s t m P c h p v w y C s V

I W m P c a o

Valley Voice Magazine - Your Monthly Guide to Living in the Cowichan Valley

Duncan’s Sweet Peas – Cowichan Incubator Seed Farm

uncan, 1935 – Walking down Station Street, surrounded by sweet pea flower decorations, people are admiring the freshly-crowned Sweet Pea Queen. Festivities are joyful; for one more consecutive year, the Crosland Brothers and their prosperous Sweet Pea farm, based near Somenos Lake, has been flourishing and sending several amounts of sweet pea seeds across the globe to England. To honor the importance of this seed to the local economy, a local jeweller has even created gemstones replicas of the seeds… The next year, the James Seed Company would yield a crop of 166 varieties of vegetables in Cowichan Bay, at the old Cornfield Farm on Bench Rd, granted by the very rich soil of the 200 acres land and the handiness of homemade machines. While founder Percival James, who also came from England, would have started his humble seed production with only 6 vegetable varieties on Parker Island, he would sell as much as 300,000 - 400,000 packets of seed per year in 1955! That is to say the Cowichan Valley’s potential for seed production would put our Valley in the spotlight! In the 40s, the Second World War would keep James’ seed market going by its’ demand for Portulaca seeds to be grown for camouflage on Mediterranean airbases. Eventually, both of Cowichan’s great seed

producers would be pushed out of the seed business, their diverse offerings replaced by yet larger seed producers as the increasing industrialization and commodification of agriculture began to dominate the global seed market. Today, engaged seed savers are very sparse across Canada, leading to the burning question: how can we ensure food security without seed security? Seed security implies: achieving self-sufficiency on seed supplies to ensure a secure food supply; locally growing a large variety of legumes, grains, fruits and vegetables to ensure a diverse diet and therefore great nutrient uptake, as well as a diverse ecology and soil microbiology contributing to pollination and soil processes; and cultivating plants adapted to our local climate. Duncan, 2017 – Foster Richardson, young seed farmer with Cowichan Green Community, is explaining what a unique and fun challenge it is for him to grow locally adapted seed for our region’s gardeners and farmers! From identifying specific genetic features to preserve and processing and storing the seed crops to ensure viability, he considers Cowichan Green Community’s Cowichan Incubator Seed Farm his playground. Located on Beverly St, the Cowichan Incubator Seed Farm carries on a historical practice that is essential to our Valley’s future self-sufficiency.

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The seed farm offers internships to new or emerging seed farmers and will house a seed cleaning facility and community seed bank. The Incubator Seed Farm is one of Cow-op.ca’s many online farmers’ market vendors. Visit www.cow-op.ca to order their

seeds including beans, amaranth, rutabaga, barley, wheat, chickpeas, sunflowers, brassicas, lentils, onions, leeks and beets. Submitted by Gabrielle RondeauLeclaire

Manor Bridge

trio (daughter Julia Graff, and Kirby Barber) for an intimate performance in the Chapel at Providence Farm 1843 Tzouhalem Rd. Shari’s career has lead to 23 albums, and collaborations with some of Canada’s top musicians—and a show not to be missed. April 15, Chapel at Providence Farm 1843 Tzouhalem Rd., Duncan Doors: 7 Show: 7:30. Tickets $20 adv. ($25 door) at Duncan Music, Providence Farm Store, and www.eventbrite.ca

Harmonized Motion Sara Marreiros and Laurel Murphy Join us for a special event, ‘Harmonized Motion,’ on Saturday April 14th from 6 – 8pm. Musicians Sara Marreiros and Laurel Murphy will blend Sara’s passion for Portuguese fado & jazz with Laurel’s electronic sound, and will converse with the spontaneous mark-making of David Martinello to create a unique live performance. Saturday April 14, 6 – 8pm. The Ou Gallery. 3091 Agira Road, Duncan $20 tickets on sale at: www.theougallery.com

ShAri Ulrich Trio Live in the Chapel

Barely North Entertainment presents multi award-winning Canadian Folk legend Shari Ulrich with her

Live in the Chapel

Providence Farm

1843 Tzouhalem Rd., Duncan ALL SHOWS Doors 7pm I Performance 7:30pm April 7 • $20 Lawson Kelly w/ Reid Williams Brilliant local musicians

April 15 • $20 Shari Ulrich Trio

Multi-award winning Canadian Folk Legend

April 20 • $15 Nick Mintenko Album Release Party

FIVE VOICES OF THE LAND

Victoria based member of West My Friend

Five Voices of the Land is the work of five April 22 • $20 local artists created from their deeply felt Lauren Mann connections to this astonishing land that 2014 CBC Searchlight Winner we have the privilege to live in. Joanne Circle, Nan Goodship, Jennifer Hedge, April 27 • $20 Jock Hildebrand and Peter Spohn give Zack Kleisinger w/ Sam Lynch five different takes on our environment, Stellar up and coming Alt-Folk suggestive of the infinite ways we Tickets at Duncan Music, Providence experience this, our place. Biomorphic Farm Store, and eventbrite.ca shapes, the colour, texture and marks of the Warmland, the essence of weather, the www. barelynorth.com elegance of plants, express a living process of connectivity and creativity which will invite viewers to see with new eyes. Runs to April 20 The Arbutus Gallery in the Island Savings Centre - 2687 James St. Duncan Arbutus Gallery (Island Savings Centre) www.cowichanvalleyartscouncil.ca.

Valley Voice Magazine - Your Monthly Guide to Living in the Cowichan Valley

La Petite Auction House Auction Sunday

Mark Kiemele is a writer who lives in Chemainus.

here are many reasons why the lime-green building on Chemainus Road is filled to bursting with people every other Sunday – almost as many reasons as there are items for sale at La Petite Auction House. A couple of comments from customers might best describe the success of the little auction house in the community that likes to call itself The Little Town That Did. “I’ve been to many, many auction houses and this one is my favourite,” a woman wrote on the La Petite Facebook page. “It’s small, simple and honest. Dawn and Morgan are wonderful to deal with personally and professionally. I always refer people to them as the most

legitimate and people focused auction on the Island.” And then there was someone who summed things up perfectly when they said: “Going to La Petite Auction House is like going to a party at a friend’s house twice a month. It’s so much fun, plus you end up walking out with some amazing treasure at the end! It’s my favourite week-end activity.” When certified auctioneer Dawn Geddie and her partner artist Morgan Bristol moved south from Haida Gwaii five years ago, they had little inkling of what they would create. Their main goals were simply to carry on with the two life goals that had served them well in businesses for more than 30 years on The Rock up north… success plus fun. Their first business was the Bound To Be Different boutique, the little store across from the Chemainus Theatre that is credited for rejuvenating a deadend row of empty shops. Morgan was named the Chemainus Chamber of Commerce’s retailer of the year soon after he opened the doors.

La Petite Auction House Auction Sunday April 8 & 22 • 1pm

Accepting goods throughout the week

Viewings

WEDNESDAY-FRIDAY 11am-4pm SATURDAY 1-4pm SAME DAY viewings 10am-1pm To consign email dawngeddie@gmail.com

9686 Chemainus Rd, 250-701-2902

Meanwhile, Dawn held a series of ad hoc auctions in the area and had her eye out for a prime retail location to continue with her auctioneering career. She found it at 9686 Chemainus Road, on the gateway to downtown.

Auctioneer Dawn Geddie

Small Is Beautiful At La Petite Auction House

Some in the business community were skeptical when the La Petite signs went up on the small building. “The town isn’t big enough to support an auction house,” some said. “The building isn’t big enough to run a business like that,” said others. Many of those skeptics have turned into committed bidders who show up early to get a seat at the standing-room-only auctions that are held every other Sunday. And they also stop in during the week to view the everchanging series of items – from large pieces of antique furniture to exquisite art and jewelry objects. “We always like to be optimistic, but La Petite has certainly exceeded our wildest fantasies,” says Dawn. “There are a few reasons for our success, I think. First of all, we’ve filled a niche for people moving to the Mid Island from sellers who are downsizing to the many families that are ‘upsizing’ and looking for quality furniture and items to beautify their new homes. “It is really quite incredible, the wonderful unique pieces that people bring in during the week,” she says. “Our bidders certainly have come to expect things out of the ordinary and that’s why they come from north of Nanaimo and from the Victoria area to discover their treasures.”

And it’s not just for the highquality ‘juried’ items that bidders show up. People stop in through the week and get their seats early for what one person said is “the best entertainment around.” The La Petite all-female team of auction assistants keeps the crowd laughing and the items moving throughout the day. They, along with Dawn and Morgan, are also on hand to assist successful bidders with their hard-won objects. The two hours of nonstop bidding starts at 1 p.m. on auction Sundays with viewing open from 10 a.m. La Petite is also open for viewing from 11 a.m.-4 p.m. Wednesdays through Fridays and from 1-4 p.m. on Saturdays. Many of the auction items can be viewed on the La Petite Auction House Facebook page. Upcoming auction dates and other information is listed there too, under the About section. La Petite Auction House, 9684 Chemainus Rd, Chemainus (250) 701-2902.

Wings Encore Women’s Choir

YOGA

with Lilian Bianchi

his season marks an incredible 10 years of outstanding musicianship for the award-winning chamber ensemble, Encore! Women’s Choir. The choir members are excitedly preparing for the 10th anniversary with a lively and nostalgic spring concert entitled “Wings”. Director Christine Dandy, has created a programme that will deliver the best of the best, the groups best-loved songs from their incredible 10 years together, plus additional pieces that display their talent, dedication, and love of music. Over the years, Encore! Women’s Choir has explored a wide variety of genres from baroque and romantic styles to popular modern music. Their 10th anniversary concert will celebrate their incredible diversity through composers such as Bach and Purcell as well as modern composers such as Eric Whitacre and our own local talent, Deborah Sumner. Some songs that have been pulled from concerts past include ‘The Seal Lullaby’ and

Honouring

BODY, MIND & SPIRIT ‘Stars’, and to round out the concert the energetic African folk song ‘Tue, Tue’, the French Canadian song ‘Alouette’, a gorgeous spiritual ‘Peace Like a River,’ and a modern classical song ‘O My Love’ have been added to Encore!’s eclectic repertoire. Throw in a comical operatic spoof filled with familiar themes and this concert is sure to have something for everyone. Encore! will also delve into their roots and include a duet, a trio, and a sextet, a practice that was common at the beginning of their journey in 2007. The sextet will even include three male singers, something that hasn’t happened since the choirs first incarnation as the Opus 1 Singers Society.

Masimba Marimba Hosts Village Gathering

e’re inviting you to another “village gathering” at the HUB, to celebrate our community. This time the emphasis is on music played by local marimba groups. The evening will start with a potluck dinner. While people are eating, Masimba will play some of our slower songs that you may not hear at our dances. As dinner winds down, an energetic group of younger players from the

Woodruff Music School in Shawnigan Lake will raise the tempo, followed by Machikichori, an outgrowth of Bopoma Community Music in Duncan, who will surely get you dancing. Masimba will finish the evening with a set of high energy dance music.

Former Cowichan Valley resident and talented tap dancer, Roxanne Rout, will complement the performances at various times during the evening. The evening starts and ends earlier than a regular dance, so the schedule will fit families with younger children. These celebrations of community are special to us because we are a community band that supports many community events

This will prove to be an emotionally charged evening filled with gorgeous choral music and outstanding accompaniment! Encore! Women’s Choir promises to offer another wonderful show! Saturday, April 28th,St Edward’s Church, 2085 Maple Bay Rd. Duncan 7:30PM, Doors open at 7PM Adv Tickets: $15/$5 children under 12/ At the Door $20 Available from choir members, Volume One Books, online at www. encorewomenschoir.com or by calling 250 715-1568

SPRING SESSION

April 3 - June 28 • Beginners, Intermediate and Ongoing levels • Gentle Yoga • Restorative Yoga • Yoga on Chairs • Partner Yoga Patanjali’s Yoga Sutras Workshop May 27 • 10am-1pm Lilian Bianchi has been teaching Yoga since 1982. Lilian is registered with the Canadian Yoga Alliance as a RYT Gold. She is also an honourary member of the International Federation of Yoga.

and that is itself a mini-community. Like many local organizations, we initially formed around a common interest, in our case Morning and Evening classes held southern Africa-based at Namaste Yoga Studio and other marimba music. locations in Duncan. We’ve developed not only musical bonds but also strong personal bonds over www.namasteyoga.ca the eleven years that we’ve been playing together. Our school into a vibrant community wide range of age, background, centre and resource. Let’s life experience and outside celebrate our communities! interests are part of the blend that is Masimba, which to us means April 28, The HUB, 2375 strength together. Since we share Koksilah Road, Cowichan a love and respect for our music Station $10, children 12 and and for each other, it is always under free. Doors open at 6PM a joy to practice and perform Potluck 6:15 to 7:15 PM (Join us together. One of the reasons after dinner if you choose) Music we like playing at the HUB is 6:30PM to 9:30PM. that we know how much energy and cooperation has gone into making an unused elementary

250-746-0327

Valley Voice Magazine - Your Monthly Guide to Living in the Cowichan Valley

arely North Entertainment is very excited to bring a Valley favourite and now Gulf Island resi-dent, Lauren Mann, to the Chapel at Providence Farm on Sunday, April 22. Expect a warm and living roomlike atmosphere as Lauren displays her finely crafted songwriting skills with her gently gripping voice, through a series of moments that will tug at your heartstrings as you sit engaged—perhaps only drawn away momentarily for a sip of wine. Opening the show will be Mary MacWatt, a young and inspired musician getting her first taste of the stage. Lauren is a staple on CBC radio, having won CBC’s 2014 Searchlight Contest with her band Fairly Odd Folk, rising to the top of over 4500 bands across Canada and named Cana-da’s best new emerging artist. Her most resent album Dearestly definitely belongs in your al-bum collection, with it’s strong narrative and tactile soundscape. Fortitude Magazine called it “an album in which each and every song stands as strong on its own as it does within a collective.” Since her start, Lauren has captivated audiences with an impressive live performance at over 700 shows across Canada and the United States. She has shared the stage with bands such as July Talk, Reuben and the Dark, The Strumbellas,

Lauren Mann Rusted Root, and has set herself apart not just as a songwriter, but as an engaging performer. Washington Post named Lauren “one of the best indie-folk rockers that you’ve never heard of.” Since settling into life in the Southern Gulf Islands, Lauren has become more involved in the local music scene, hosting multiple songwriting workshops and retreats for youth and adults alike, as well as collaborating with other artists on stage and in the studio. Show is Sunday, April 22 in the Chapel at Providence Farm 1843 Tzouhalem Rd., Duncan. Doors: 7 show: 7:30. Tix $20 at Duncan Music, Providence Farm Store and www.eventbrite.ca.

Image Sarah Wroot

Cowichan Hand to Hand Fibre Arts “...and pass the thread from hand to hand...”

Annemor Sundbø, Invisible Threads in Knitting (2007)

he Tzouhalem Spinners & Weavers Guild in Duncan is keen to do just that! Inspired by the above quote and wanting to share their passion for and knowledge of different techniques gained through years of practice, members of the Guild are coordinating the 1st Annual Cowichan Hand to Hand Fibre Arts Workshops Weekend. It takes place on Saturday, April 21 and Sunday, April 22 in the meeting rooms at the Cowichan Exhibition. Over those two days, members and invited instructors will present a variety of fibre arts topics in ten half-day classes (9:30 to 12:30 or 1:30 to 4:30). All of the sessions have a very real hands-on connection to the making of yarn or cloth; some workshops are specifically for beginners while others require students to have some previous experience. Anyone interested in signing up for one or more of the workshops can do so by going to the event’s blog at cowichanh2hfibrearts. ca. When it opens, click on Current News to bring up information on the classes. There you’ll find a description

of each workshop, its cost, what supplies are included, equipment to bring, and the name of the instructor. The link to the registration form is also on that page. The registration deadline is April 6. Anyone with questions about any class can contact Alison Irwin at (250) 746-6330 or Pat Montgomery at (250) 246-0265. What can students expect to learn about in three hours? Warping an inkle loom to weave a narrow band, blending CMYK-dyed fibres to create colourful handspun yarns, needle felting a little hedgehog topped with curly locks, spinning their first continuous thread on a wheel, sampling a range of silk fibres, hooking a trivet in Tunisian crochet, using the buttonhole stitch for needlepoint lace, weaving a tension tray from dyed reeds, spinning exotic qiviut (musk ox), and braiding bold Kumihimo patterns on a foam disk. With Cowichan Hand to Hand Fibre Arts, the Tzouhalem Guild plants a new seed this spring and anticipates that it will blossom into an annual event.

Valley Voice Magazine - Your Monthly Guide to Living in the Cowichan Valley

One Tree Wild Workshop

his month Live Edge Design is holding the first wild workshop weekend at their studio on Mearns Rd. Using the oneTree concept a single cedar tree (kindly donated by the District of North Cowichan) that fell during a storm last winter will find new life. Participants of the workshop will be challenged to create as many pieces as they can from this single tree. They

will be taught how to build the outdoor furniture piece of their choice (Adirondack chair, bench or arbour) over the two day workshop and will get to take home what they create. John Lore of Live Edge Design is no stranger to woodworking workshops, he started out in the bent willow world and created a course for folks to learn the skill in the

Cowichan Valley. “ I discovered early on that many people made their living at a computer, but inside, they were like me, with a need to create with their hands. Thus was born the rustic furniture course, a weekend where anybody could build a chair or a bench they could John Lore; explaining be proud of. The the process of designing course became a a table major part of the business. It was soulful to help people create long table dinner catered by something they never thought George Gates of the Farm they could and glow with Table Inn where we’ll be pride at the outcome and i’m serving barbecued salmon on excited to try it again.” Say seasoned cedar planks from Lore the tree. To celebrate the life of the cedar tree and the accomplishments of the participants there will be a

Wild Workshop runs April 2122. For more information visit www.liveedgedesign.com.

Soul Escape Opens New Organic Spa With Artisan Retail Boutique

New to Soul Escape, Jusu Body Skincare, vegan line from Victoria

Beverly Corners Market Place 109-921 H Canada Avenue, Duncan 250.748.2056 www.soulescape.ca

oul Escape Esthetics is celebrating twelve years of being at the top of her business by relocating and going bigger! “We have had the most amazing clients one could ask for, we feel very blessed to be on the island and live in the Cowichan Valley and are thankful for the years of support from our clients and fellow businesses.” smiles Eva Walker owner of Soul Escape Esthetics. With thanks and appreciation to all her neighbours and friends at the original highway location, she bids adieu as her business moves to beautiful Beverly Corners. Kathy and Eva have been hard at work for the last few months getting the treatment rooms, gift boutique and space ready for their clients. “Our new place looks stunning. A beautiful reception area to welcome our guests with a large gift boutique and 3 treatment rooms.” Eva will still be offering the same spectacular spa services - facials, waxing, massage, pedicures, permanent cosmetic tattooing and all the other specialty pampering but in addition to carrying the full Eminence Organic luxury skincare line, they will also be introducing Jusu Body Skincare- a vegan line from Victoria, exclusive to Soul Escape in the Cowichan Valley.

Included in the new space is a larger retail area carefully curated with beautiful artisan gift items selected for their high quality and workmanship. Mindful shoppers will find great gifts that are locally made, vegan or organic. You will also find a special Sweet Section with imported luxury chocolates and specialty truffles from Whistler, creative accessories, modern home decor and unique fashion. Join Eva and Kathy for Soul Escape Organic Spa & Boutique Grand Opening celebration. There will be gifts, giveaways, refreshments throughout the day as well as skin care advisors from Eminence and Jusu Body Skincare. April 18, Wednesday 9am - 8pm Beverly Corners Market Place 109-921 H Canada Avenue, Duncan. See you there! www.soulescape.ca

Luckily, two years later a space became available directly across the street that would double their size and on Thanksgiving weekend that year they moved in.

They are now the largest beading store on the Island – offering a huge variety of findings, stringing materials, seed beads, charms of every description and semi-precious gemstones. As well, they carry a large selection of Swarovski® crystals and large selection of “just” beads – glass, wood, metal and even large acrylic beads in many shapes and sizes perfect for the kids beading projects.

Get Creative With Etc. In Chemainus

n early 2011 two “beading buddies” were lamenting the lack of beading supplies available on the island. Buying wholesale meant being stuck with way too many beads or findings to use. Buying from suppliers on Ebay and Etsy meant huge shipping costs and paying the inevitable duty at the post office which all adds to the cost of the finished product. What to do? Open a bead store! It would be an outlet for extra stock and their finished jewellery. It was then that Holly Cook and Barb Woods began the search for the perfect location. In June of that year they opened ETC! in their first location - a 600 sq ft store on Willow St. in Chemainus. From the very beginning they knew that classes would be important and started offering basic beading classes at the back of the store. As demand for different types of classes grew and they continued to expand their stock of findings and beads it soon became obvious they were bursting at the seams and a larger location was needed.

With a separate space for classes, they can now offer classes during business hours. Holly offers classes in basic beading, kumihimo, copper etching and Viking knit. As well, customers can learn a variety of bead weaving techniques like peyote stitch, right angle weave as well as flat and tubular herringbone. “I use to post a lot more classes on our Facebook page,” Holly says, “but now I have customers coming to me to book private classes for groups of 3 – 6. It is a fun way to spend a few hours with friends or family.” Often asked if “beading is becoming popular again” by folks who happen to wander in, Holly is quick to point out that beading has been popular for the last 10,000 years and isn’t likely to go out of fashion. There is always something new available to our

BEADS BEADS BEADS

Etc!

9752c Willow St

Chemainus

250 324 2227 Open 7 days a week

Best prices on the island • HUGE Selection • Workshops & Classes Beading I Kumihimo I Bead Weaving I Viking Knit I Herringbone and more!

INTUITIVE HEALER • Certified Clinical

Hypnotherapist • Certified Quantum Touch Practitioner

HEATHER LAUZON

250-732-1405

www.emeraldhealingplace.com

Julia Allen R.C.C. MCP, IMHA, BA

Masters Counselling Psychology Registered Clinical Counsellor

Shamanic Practices, Therpeutic Altered States Therapy

250-709-9673 www.longboatcounselling.com info@longboatcounselling.com customers. They change up our Pandora-style beads every couple of months. This year lava beads are very popular for diffuser jewellery and we offer lava beads in sizes 6mm – 10mm as well as finished lava bead jewellery. Holly has just started to bring in range of colourful food-grade silicone beads for necklaces for nursing moms (something for baby to play with while nursing) or bracelets for teething babies.

And Etc! always has a large range of one-of-a-kind finished jewellery for that special gift for yourself or a friend. Open 7 days a week, year round, for your shopping convenience at 9752Willow St, Chemainus. 250 3242227 www.facebook.com/ etcinchemainus

An Exquisite Dining Experience The Royal Dar

t is rare to come across an exquisite Indian fine dining experience, but downtown Duncan has one called the Royal Dar. Their name was inspired by the Punjabi word Dar which means doorway. If you are fortunate enough to stumble through this royal doorway you will be pleasantly surprised from the moment you step onto the property. Unlike any other restaurant on Vancouver Island it is no wonder why they have been a destination dining experience for over a decade. The restaurant first opened in Ladysmith where the Gill family bought a historic 100 year old character house and completely renovated it. Their vision was to offer an elegant and exceptional Indian food experience and in a short time achieved

The Royal Dar Image Tony Colangelo

perfection making the Royal Dar a destination restaurant best known for authentically prepared and presented Indian food paired with the quality wines. Regulars came from Nanaimo, Salt Spring Island and the Cowichan Valley for this complete dining experience. “We believe in doing everything to the best of our ability” shares Ryan “it is a unique dining experience because we don’t just focus on the food. We bring the whole package to the table through our service, ambiance, the décor, our beautiful patio and landscaped yard. We set out to give our customers a memorable, relaxing and enjoyable experience. When the drinking and driving rules changed in 2011 we realized we would have to make some

serious changes. We knew 70% of our clients came from Cowichan Valley so we knew that’s where we needed to be.” recalls Ryan “We found a beautiful 106 year old house in downtown Duncan and started the process for rezoning and a complete renovation opening our doors in May 2012.” The response to their move has been excellent with the local diners, grateful for the

short trip into Duncan. The move and their 5 star ratings on Trip Advisor brings new customers to the Royal Dar daily with some coming from as far as Victoria and Parksville for the authentic Royal Dar experience. Their delicious menu consists of a great variety of primarily Northern Indian dishes prepared from family and traditional Indian chefs recipes. Their most sought

Your Doorway To Exotic Flavours and Aromas “Amazing food, great friendly service, beautiful atmosphere, we will deﬁnitely be eating there again!”

5.0

Be sure to ask your server about Our Daily Lunch Features

Google Review

• Lunch & Dinner • Takeout/Catering • Gift Certiﬁcates • Local Wines & Craft Beers • Vegan & Gluten-Free Choices 148 Third St, Duncan 250-597-1483

Hours: Mon-Sat 11:30-2:30 | 5-Close | royaldar.ca

Prawn Amritsari, Image Tony Colangelo

after dish is the Lababbdar served with your choice of chicken, lamb or prawns (staff favourite is chcken by the way) The Lababbdar flavours is composed of 3 of their house made sauces - butter sauce, korma and curry. You know you’ve made the right choice with the Lababbdar because the staff always “oohs” when you order one. Pescatarians will love the Seafood Goa, a blend of coconut milk, turmeric, onion seeds and hand ground coconut. This sauce of southern origin is specifically for seafood. For readers new to the Indian food scene the restaurant is famous for their Vegetable Pakoras and Royal Dar Samosas. A samosa is a fried fritter stuffed with tender potatoes, red and green peppers, onions, peas and Indian spices. A distinctively delicious samosa, it is in a league of it’s own and both the pakoras and samosas have been described as the best on the island. Share an order with friends as an appetizer or enjoy one as a meal. Another great appy is the Prawn Amritsari, a lightly battered, giant juicy tiger prawn spiced with a hint of curry flavour, and accompanied with a house made mint chutney and hot sauce for dipping.

Another easy favourite is the Korma. A luxurious ground cashew and cream sauce very mild in spice and not overly strong curry flavours. Butter chicken is popular with the regulars. A blend of cream, onions, tomato and Tandoori chicken simmered together into a rich and delicious dish. All main entrees are served with rice, naan and Indian vegetables enabling guests to enjoy an easy and relaxed meal.

HOME DECOR

If you still have room for dessert, try their house made mango pistachio ice cream. Served with whipped cream and topped with ground pistachio. A perfect way to end your meal. Vegetarians and vegans will find a large variety of menu options for both lunch and dinner and many of their dishes are gluten free.Take Out and Open for lunch and dinner 7 days a week. Take out and catering services also available.

115 Kenneth St. Duncan BC 250 746 9809 www.embellishhome.ca

Royal Dar, 148 3rd Street, downtown Duncan. www.royaldar.ca

Eat Organic!

Reduce, Reuse & Recycle for a happier and

healthier community.

Chicken Santa Fe Salad with Chipotle Mango Pico De Gallo Recipe courtesy Grant Easterbrook, The Olive Station

This fresh fe salad is spring time and sweet of Mango Balsamic Chipotle Olive you counting until west season!

Chicken santa the perfect dish. The zesty combination White Vinegar and Oil will have down the days coast patio

Ingredients

Santa Fe Chicken

6 boneless skinless chicken thighs. 1 tablespoon Chilli powder 1 tablespoon garlic powder 1 teaspoon cumin 1 teaspoon corriander pinch sea salt 1/4 cup lime juice

Pico De Gallo

1-2 cups fresh diced tomatoes half yellow pepper diced half purple onion diced 1/4 cup chopped cilantro 2 cloves garlic

Greens

1 1/2 cups corn 1 cup black beans rinsed 3 cups chopped spinach half head of iceberg lettuce 1 cup green onions chopped 1 avocado chopped

pinch sea salt 1/2 cup Mango White Balsamic Vinegar 1/4 cup chipotle Extra Virgin Olive Oil

Method

Santa Fe Chicken

1.combine chilli powder, garlic powder, cumin coriander, salt and lime juice. 2. Put chicken into baking dish, and pour mixture over chicken until fully coated. 3. cover and bake at 350 degrees (25-30 mins) until chicken is tender and juicy. 4. With two forks pull apart the chicken thighs until the chicken is nice and shredded. 5. set aside.

Pico De Gallo

1.in a bowl combine tomatoes, peppers, onions, garlic, cilantro, Oil & Vinegar. 2. cover and refrigerate until needed.

Greens

1.Chop spinach and iceberg lettuce. 2. Mix in black beans and corn. To serve, spoon pico de gallo over mixed greens and top with shredded chicken avocado, cilantro, green onions and a spoonful of sour cream.

A f a A

f V i b t n c w E e s s a t r

A I n C J J a C y o h s m w i s

incredibly fortunate to have this opportunity to influence national policy. There is a deep well of local knowledge and experience from which to draw and use to inform my work in Ottawa.

April Update from Alistair MacGregor Alistair MacGregor is the MP for Cowichan-Malahat-Langford and the federal NDP’s Critic for Agriculture

ontinuing with the Spring season, April shows the farmers of the Cowichan Valley all in a state of busy industry. Seeds that were bought, sold, traded, and then planted last month have now germinated, and a new crop of seedlings stand ready with their summer promise. Equipment and tools have emerged from hibernation to start new projects, and the sounds of lambs, kids, calves, and piglets are starting to fill the air in farms across the region. As many readers will know, I had the honour of being named as the federal NDP’s Critic for Agriculture in January by my new leader, Jagmeet Singh. I’ve been a resident of our beautiful Cowichan Valley for over 25 years, and I am keenly aware of our storied agricultural history. As the co-owner of a small farming property with my wife, and as someone who has had a keen interest in agricultural and food security issues, I count myself

I am keenly interested in how regenerative agriculture practices can help with climate change mitigation and food security challenges both now and in the future. The House of Commons’ Standing Committee on Agriculture, of which I am the second Vice-Chair, is wrapping up its study on climate change and water and soil conservation issues and will release its final report soon. Of particular interest to me were discussions on the efforts to promote and build healthy soils, which can lead to carbon sequestration and help increase crop yields with minimal or no fertilizer inputs.

NEW STYLES FOR SPRING AND SUMMER

FAIR TRADE, NATURAL FIBRES, BAMBOO Open Sunday to Friday

Sunday Shoppers Save 7% off all purchases

Prudence

Natural Skincare & Cosmetics • 155 Craig Street, Downtown Duncan

www.prudencenaturalbeauty.ca

Over the course of this study we heard from representatives of many different farming organizations, and it is clear that they recognize not only that many agricultural practices need to change, but that agriculture itself has the potential to play a major role in addressing some of our most pressing environmental challenges. These are exciting times in agriculture, and I invite you to be a part of the conversation by contacting my office with your feedback, comments, and suggestions.

Matraea Baby Boutique Pure • Safe • Loved

Natural, Organic Quality Products and clothing for Baby, Pregnancy and Birth. Silkberry, Baby Soy, Parade, Kewe, Toad In A Tree, Lulu Lollipop, The Wild, Little & Lively, Aden and Anais, Lulujo, Ringley and much more...

170 Craig St, Downtown Duncan I 250-597-8255

www.matraeababyboutique.com

Safe, Natural and Organic Goods For Baby, Mom and Family

hen the opportunity arose to become the new owner of Matraea Birth Shop Rebeccah Moore had many reasons to be excited. “The thought of being connected to the Matraea family warmed my heart in many ways. As a mother of four, I’ve birthed all four of my children with loving midwives and each experience has been incredibly empowering and beautiful. Matraea carries some of my most special memories and I’ve been a loyal customer for years. I have personally experienced the support of the Matraea centre, products and midwives and sharing in what I so strongly believe in is a dream come true! smiles new owner Rebecca Moore Re branding as the Matraea Baby Boutique it is a warm hug for mom, baby and family with a focus on providing products that are safe, pure and infused with love from one mommy to the next. Matraea Baby Boutique focuses on organic, safe and natural products. You will always find a wide selection of quality organic cottons and 100% Bamboo infant and toddler clothing, blankets, toys, maternity and everything to support pregnancy and birth for mom, baby and family. We believe in supporting local and carry many Canadian brands

from Vancouver, Victoria, Ontario and Vancouver Island. Matraea products remain a large focus of the store and you will find all of Matraea’s famous 100% organic teas and products for pregnancy, birth, postpartum, and baby here at the store. “Some of my favourite items in the store were my favourite items when I had my own babies. I remember coming in with my last pregnancy looking for that one item that I could hold and feel until my baby arrived. For me it was a gorgeous Bamboo Aiden and Anais Dream blanket. My daughter, now 3 still has it and I still love it as much as I did the day I bought it . Hevea natural rubber pacifiers were another must have for me and we have a large selection. 100% bamboo muslin crib blankets and swaddles, healing amber infant necklaces and organic cotton baby wraps and carriers are also favourites of mine.” Matraea Baby Boutique, 170 Craig St, Downtown Duncan www.matraeababyboutique.com

Valley Voice Magazine - Your Monthly Guide to Living in the Cowichan Valley

The Perfect Meal

Bronwen Thorburn, CNP (Holistic Nutritionist) Full Circle Nutrition 1-604-818-5108 fullcirclenutrition.ca

s a nutritionist, I often get asked what is “the ‘perfect meal?” As humans, we’re always looking for an easy answer and when it comes to food, we’re looking for that ‘perfect meal’ that will be healthy, delicious, and hopefully something we will love so much that we will want to eat it every day. Since each person’s nutritional needs are as individual as they are, many factors can determine what foods work, or don’t, in your body. Stress, chronic pain, exercise, DNA, relationships, and environment are just a few. For me, preparing the perfect meal goes beyond just what you put on your plate. And recently, while volunteering at the Cowichan Green Community’s family cooking class, I was reminded of my answer. Learning to cook as a child or an adult can be scary, exciting, and a bit daunting, but being able to do it with community support makes the task less intimidating. I was lucky to have been taught how to cook by my dad. The kitchen became a space that we connected. Planning meals, creating them, and sharing them

with family are times I will never forget. Cowichan Green Community provides a safe, fun environment for families to roll up their sleeves and get their hands and taste buds involved in cooking. Families learn where their food comes from and how it affects their bodies in a hands-on approach to creating meals. Most parents would find it challenging to spend an extra hour coaching their child through dinner-making each night, but these classes allow everyone, parents and their children to have that experience. To me, THAT is the perfect meal! In this environment, many face barriers to affordable, nutritious, and locally-grown food. Cowichan Green Community wishes to change that. Funded through NutritionLink Services Society, Chow Down is a series of free weekly cooking classes geared towards families who struggle with food security and are interested in learning basic skills in the kitchen, would like to learn cost efficient and nutrient dense recipes and gain confidence in the kitchen. These cooking classes happen every Monday from 4:00 PM in central Duncan. Child minding is provided and pre-registration is required. For more information or to reserve your spot please contact Jennifer Dorby at 250-748-8606 or jennifer@ cowichangreencommunity.org.

Violet Reynolds, RMT, CASE, RDYT500 Classes: Somatics and Somatic Yoga Individual Appointments:Clinical Somatics

www.duncanwellnesscentre.com

250 748-6600

Kum Nye Tibetan Yoga

A Vehicle for Deep Meditation The Collective Space 166 Station St., Duncan

Every Thursday at 5PM Drop-ins Welcome 250-897-5576 Email: info@movingpresence.center Web: movingpresence.center

JOIN US FOR

LUNCH + DINNER

OPEN Tuesday

Happy Hour 3-5pm

to Saturday

look for our daily specials on 40 Ingram Street

www.theoldﬁrehouse.ca

Downtown Duncan

(250) 597-3473

he human foot has 26 bones and 33 joints that ideally move without pain as we walk our life’s journey. Injuries and unconscious muscle tension can change the shape of the foot and its contact to the earth. The foot’s contact to the earth and its shape affect the muscles and the joints above the foot. As our base of support, the foot can affect the body as if it where the Leaning Tower of Pisa. If you turn your shoes over and compare, do you notice differences in the wear pattern? To help yourself create a more relaxed foot that feels more connected and grounded to the earth, try the Somatic exploration of ‘Four corners of the feet’. This exploration is best done without shoes in an environment that is peaceful for you. If you are comfortable close your eyes and remove your socks to increase the sensory awareness in your feet. Keep your eyes open if you have concerns about your balance. Start by doing a Sensory Inventory to enhance your inner knowledge of how your feet contact. Do you sense more weight in one foot? Perhaps you sense more weight at the toes, the heels or more toward the left or right? As you move your upper body, keep your awareness on how it affects the feet, ankles, calves, legs and back muscles. What do you sense if you gently take your upper body forward into a stooped position? Let yourself return to the start. Within a comfortable range, slowly take your upper body

Connect Your Feet To The Earth backward. Return to the start and slowly alternate between forward and backward, then return to a centered position. Next explore the sensations in your feet and body as you shift the upper body weight to the right, back to the centre and then shift to the left. Be curious as you alternate two to three times, and then return to a centered position. When you return to the centred position notice the contact of the feet – do your feet feel different than your initial Sensory Inventory- is the weight distribution more equal, do the feet feel more connected to the ground? This Somatic exploration is great to do anytime you stand and it may help you notice if you have a habit of standing with more weight on one leg which is a contributing factor to hip and low back pain.

Valley Voice Magazine - Your Monthly Guide to Living in the Cowichan Valley

Violet Reynolds RMT, Somatic Educator, RDYT500

may also contribute to rosacea. What are Rosacea Triggers? Knowing the triggers can help you manage rosacea. Track your diet and activities to determine which triggers you can eliminate.

Rosacea

hat is Rosacea?

Rosacea is a chronic skin condition that affects mainly the face. Most commonly, it affects the cheeks, nose, and forehead. Sometimes the eyes are affected, resulting in a gritty feeling under the eyelids. Does Rosacea Vary in Intensity? Mild rosacea results in light flushing and mild redness. Moderate cases exhibit persistent redness and pimple like bumps. The skin can be very sensitive and feel as if burned by the sun. Severe rosacea may affect the nose causing the skin tissue to thicken and become bumpy. This is called rhynophyma. Who Gets Rosacea? Rosacea usually develops in adults between 30 and 50. It affects both men and women although it seems to affect more women while more severe cases occur in men. It tends to affect people with fair skin. What Causes Rosacea? It is believed that rosacea is the result of a combination of genetic and environmental factors. Chronic sun exposure is a known factor for rosacea. A skin mite called Dermodex folliculorum

1) Certain food and beverages – hot drinks, spicy seasonings, alcohol and caffeine. 2) Sun exposure – UV exposure makes rosacea worse. Sunblock is essential to minimize this trigger. 3) Temperature extremes – Hot or cold weather conditions, wind, and humidity can all contribute to symptoms. Cover up and look for shade in hot weather, moisturize in cold weather, and avoid hot baths and saunas. 4) Intense exercise – High intensity workouts can trigger flushing. Divide exercise into shorter sessions and try to find ways to say cool while exercising. 5) Stress – Emotional upsets are one of the most common triggers for rosacea. Manage stress with regular moderate exercise, mindfulness meditation, regular sleep, and a healthy diet. 6) Certain Cosmetic products – Products with fragrance, alcohol, and / or abrasive ingredients are triggers. Since rosacea prone skin is usually very sensitive, use only gentle, calming products. 7) Some Medication – Certain medications can cause flare-ups. Ask your health care provider about your medications. What are the Treatment Options? Rosacea is not a condition that will improve on its own. Your physician can suggest various treatments including: 1) Topical prescription creams containing anti-inflammatory and

DOWNTOWN

DUNCAN

• Skin Care Services • Esthetics Services • Natural Sugaring Hair Removal • Onsite Gel Nail Artist • Facial Bar

250 510 8700

#105 80 Station Street - Please use Craig St entrance / or anti-microbial ingredients can be helpful. Talk with your doctor about creams including Metronidazole, Azelaic acid, and Ivermectin. 2) Gentle skin care products that hydrate and settle inflammation can be very helpful. These include Vitamin C and other natural ingredients that are proven to reduce inflammation. 3) Antibiotics (either topical or oral) are helpful for more severe cases including papular rosacea. 4) Laser therapy uses intense pulsed light or 532 / 1064 laser

frequencies to treat visible blood vessels. 5) Make-up with minerals and anti-inflammatory properties can be useful in reducing irritation and covering up redness and bumps.

Submitted by Dr. Lyn Pascoe, Viva Medical Aesthetics, 250 746 6512

and accompanies seniors into the community. During this time, the group has directed their adventures to the Valley Seniors Centre. Don is the driving force in keeping the group going; welcoming volunteers, encouraging seniors and fashioning friendships.

Volunteering is a fundamental building block of our community.

ational Volunteer Week (NVW) April 15-21, 2018, is a time to celebrate and thank Canada’s 12.7 million volunteers. Volunteering is a fundamental building block of our community. It brings to life the noblest aspirations of humankind – the pursuit of peace, freedom, opportunity, safety, and justice for all people. Often the work of the individual volunteer goes unnoticed and unappreciated by the community at large. Don Ward and Major Hazura Sangha are two volunteers who have been making a real and profound difference in our community for over 25 years, and Volunteer Cowichan would love to celebrate this commitment. While Volunteer Cowichan encourages its initiatives to break off and become their own entities, our Friendly Visitor program continues to be a mainstay after 25 years. The program was created to serve one of the most socially vulnerable demographics in our community: isolated seniors. Don Ward was instrumental in beginning a walking group for individuals living at Duncan Manor. This weekly walking group gets together with the support of multiple volunteers

Hazura Sangha is a life member of Volunteer Cowichan because of his 25 year commitment as a friendly visitor and board member. He is an active volunteer interpreter in Hindi, Punjabi and Urdu in schools, hospitals and the courts. He helped connect residents of the Valley with the Sikh community and actively supported cross cultural friendships. As an active health and fitness role model, he continues to win medals at the BC Senior Games, and has organized community teams in the Canadian Cancer Society’s Relay for Life. He is committed to education as a means to improve one’s health outcomes and quality of life experience with long-standing relationships with the Cowichan Intercultural Society and Literacy Now Cowichan. Currently he is a friendly visitor with the Cowichan Region Better at Home and a driver for the Canadian Cancer Society. Volunteer Cowichan has a strong foundation, but we have further building and growing to do. Volunteers make daily contributions in our community. We feel that highlighting and acknowledging the incredible work Don and Hazura have carried out over the past 25 years, will hopefully encourage others to take up the mantel.

Submitted by Rebecca McCauley and Jennifer Lazenby

Valley Voice Magazine - Your Monthly Guide to Living in the Cowichan Valley

We Need YOU at the 2018 BC Summer Games! 3,700 participants 3,000 volunteers 27 venues 18 sports 1 Cowichan

he 2018 BC Summer Games will be hosted right here in the Cowichan Valley! From July 19 - 22, BC’s best emerging athletes (generally between 13-18 years old), trained coaches, and certified officials will gather to participate in this milestone sporting event. The BC Summer Games will be made possible through the power of local volunteers. Volunteers will cook for participants three times a day, drive them around to competition venues, deliver entertainment, photograph competitions, provide medical and first aid support, deliver exciting awards ceremonies, and much more. We need over 3,000 volunteers for the weekend of the Games, and we hope you will be one of them! Volunteering with the BC Summer Games is an opportunity to meet new neighbours, experience exciting events, and give directly to youth from across the Province. The theme of the 2018 BC

Summer Games is “Show Your Colours.” It’s a call-toaction for athletes, as well as our community. For athletes, it is a reminder to do their best and accept their best. It also references inter-regional competition, with each region vying to demonstrate their particular skills, character, and “colours.” Importantly, “Show Your Colours” also calls our Cowichan community into action, asking us to collectively present the best of our region. The BC Games Society was created by former premier Bill Bennett who believed in providing “an opportunity to bring all parts of BC together, large and small communities, in the spirit of sport and friendship.” The BC Games can be a life-changing experience for young athletes. Many advance to compete nationally with Team BC or further: Sixteen BC Games alumni competed at the 2018 Winter Olympics in PyeongChang! The BC Games also creates lasting benefits for host communities. In 1991, Duncan and North Cowichan hosted the BC Winter Games and the legacy revenue from that event became the seed money for the Cowichan Sportsplex. Whatever your interests are, we have a volunteer job for you. Volunteer obligations are largely limited to the weekend of the Games (July 19-22). Register at www.bcgames. org. Deb SavoryWright, Director of Participant and Volunteer Services for the BC Summer Games in Cowichan

assions Captured and The Duncan Ramada is proud to bring “The Belly, Baby and Tot Fair” to The Cowichan Valley for the first time. This Event will provide an opportunity for Mothers, Expecting Mothers and Supporting Family Members to gain knowledge and view important products to help with this significant time of life. This is the Cowichan Valley’s first Baby Fair bringing together professional and talented exhibitors and educators in the realm of babies and toddlers. This event will feature local Island vendors, guest speakers, information sessions and prizes. Vendors confirmed include Bittybottoms for Baby, SleepWell Baby, Vancouver Island Car Seat Technicians and several others offering unique

products and valuable information. Entry to the event is $5.00 per family with proceeds from the admission sales going toward a chosen charity in support of children’s health. Entrance tickets available at Event Brite, The Ramada and/or at The Door. The Cowichan Valley is full of amazing business and talent worthy of opportunities to be promoted and recognized and has a vital community willing to support them. Passions Captured Events is proud to be included to provide important events as these that build community and our beautiful Cowichan Valley. Passions Captured Events believes that “Capturing What Moves You” and incorporating that passion into an event is the foundation of event planning.

Bob Vanderford Photography

The First Annual Cowichan Valley Belly, Baby and Tot Fair Passions Captured Events and The Ramada Duncan present the First Annual Belly, Baby and Tot Fair, at The Ramada Duncan Conference Centre, 140

Trans Canada Hwy, Saturday April 14th, 10am-4pm.

Belly, Baby & Tot Fair by Passions Captured Events

• Maternity, Baby and Toddler Vendors • Educational Seminars • Vancouver Island Car Seat Tech • Live Music, Entertainment for Kids • Door Prizes on the Hour • Snacks and Drinks • Enter to win a Mom’s Prize Pack

Saturday April 14

10 am – 4pm Ramada Duncan 140 Trans-Canada Highway, Duncan $5 Per Family

Valley Voice Magazine - Your Monthly Guide to Living in the Cowichan Valley

Summer Kids Camps 2018

Day Programs & Overnight Camps Register Online Now at coastalbliss.ca

1 800 896 9525

coastalbliss@shaw.ca

Change Makers and Risk Takers

WRITING AND ART ON REVOLUTIONARIES BY SUNRISE WALDORF SCHOOL GRADE EIGHTS

Emmeline Pankhurst Deeds Not Words

Emmeline Pankhurst was one of many courageous women who braved unknown challenges, persevered through demanding experiences and payed a high price for gaining more equality between genders. Emmeline Pankhurst was born in England into a large family who were deeply interested and politically active in the progression of women’s suffrage. From a young age Emmeline was ruthless, using herself and her followers in sending messages to the government. Violence and militancy were their main course of action; sadly, these were the extremes the suffragettes had to go to in order to be heard. Emmeline died on June 14, 1928, a few weeks before women were given the vote. I chose to study Emmeline Pankhurst because she spent her entire life pursuing through hardships, and battling with a heart of courage, to die just before all her work and intentions took effect. She was never there to experience the glory, but many others were. It is these human beings, the ones with virtues and selflessness, bravery and love, that re-shape and change our world for the better.

Saskia J. . Sunrise Waldorf School grade eight student, loves photography and has a passion for horses.

Albert Einstein Chris Hadfield

Rosa Parks

The Most Influential Daydreamer

The Boy Who Wanted To Walk On the Moon

She Sat Against Segregation

In 1992, Chris Hadfield was selected from 5,330 applicants to become an astronaut for NASA. By 1995, he trained to go on a specialist mission to operate and attach the Canadarm and was the only Canadian to board the MIR. In 2010, Chris was part of the Pavilion Lake research team for future missions to Mars; he redesigned the shuttle cockpit and brought the Canadian space program into the light. Chris grew up on a corn farm in Ontario, and as a child, he loved go up into the rafters of the barn and jump into the corn. He joined Air Cadets and had a glider scholarship at age fifteen and a powered engine scholarship by sixteen. He was a ski instructor for ten years, flew planes, and played volleyball, squash and guitar. Chris had many challenges, even being afraid of heights and the dark as a kid. What I learned from studying Chris Hadfield is that whatever the odds, pursue your dream knowing that if it is not accomplished, you didn’t fail yourself, because you were pursuing your dream.

I chose to study Rosa Parks because she was a courageous person who stood out in history, even though her act of protest was simple. It amazed me to learn that one woman’s actions could start a huge awareness of racial segregation. Rosa Parks was born on February 4, 1913, and grew up in Alabama. Throughout her young life she had many experiences with racism. She married Raymond Parks in 1932. He was an active member of the National Association for the Advancement of Coloured People, and in 1933, after graduating from high school, Rosa became a member too. On December 1, 1955, Rosa Parks was arrested for refusing to give up her seat on a bus to a white man. On the day of her trial, Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. led a 381-day Montgomery bus boycott to end segregation on public busses. Rosa Parks continued throughout her life to fight for everyone’s rights to be equal and free, regardless of race.

Albert Einstein was an influential revolutionary in the science world; his new thoughts and breakthroughs in mathematics and physics upon his discoveries made great accomplishments for our world. He never liked physical exercise, but soaked in his own imagination. Light, space and time consumed this young scientist since he was a boy, and he even imagined traveling alongside light. In 1905, Einstein published his five revolutionary theories, which included the special theory of relativity, a theory that tells how time and space are not absolute entities, and the photoelectric effect that led to the Nobel Prize in 1921. Einstein made his famous equation E=MC2, which explains how much energy a given object can produce. He invented the general theory of relativity which confirms that light bends. Not only was he a brilliant scientist, but also a humanitarian who spoke out for freedom, equality and human rights for Jews. Einstein is such a special person to me. I am inspired by his sense of humour and dedication.

Nyanza H., Sunrise Waldorf School grade eight student loves reading and being outside.

Tina X. Sunrise Waldorf School grade eight student loves dance, horse riding and visual art.

Ben M. Sunrise Waldorf School grade eight student, has a passion for fresh air and sports.

Valley Voice Magazine - Your Monthly Guide to Living in the Cowichan Valley

o h o l n e s w t

H m b a o f w i b s h

“ a b l r a d f s m i i c s e a

ECE AND KINDERGARTEN

OPEN HOUSE

Parent and Child Music Class Does your child enjoy music? Singing or playing an instrument?

usic and movement are fundamental aspects of children’s play, so as they hear music, children have opportunities to enjoy moving, listening, and singing. Children not only hear music, but also experience music through their senses of hearing and feeling, as well as by experimenting with their vocalizations. Help your child become active; moving to music can play a big part in children’s everyday activities. At Lila Music Centre, our parent and child’s music class fosters the developing musician without pressure, but through imitation, joy and play. It inspires both the parent and child to bring songs and games back into the home and family life. Testimonial: “I’ve attended Cari’s parent and child music sessions with both my children and we’ve all loved everything about it! The repertoire is beautiful, uplifting and seasonally oriented. The dance and movement are so much fun and the space and setting are so warm and cozy. We’ve also met some of our closest friends in the valley singing together in Cari’s yurt. Cari’s parent and child music sessions are a truly special parent and child music experience.” ~ Father of two (3 and 5 years old).

We provide children with opportunities to verbalize, visualize musical and playrelated activities such as chanting, imitating sounds, rocking and moving. Often parents with children, who are quiet in the class, remark that the child “sang all week long”. Sometime it takes a little time for children to adapt to a new situation and class structure. In this setting, the child can soak in the experience of the music, songs and digest them in his own time. Singing throughout the day is a fun and beneficial way to soothe, bring calmness and bring happiness to those little grumpy moments.

WED APRIL 11 & TUES APRIL 17 RSVP Required 2PM

Sunrise Waldorf School (SWS) is an independent school, supporting choice in education for discerning parents. We welcome your family to visit and see what we have to offer. Space is limited. Please RSVP.

2148 LAKESIDE RD, DUNCAN I 250 743-7253 www.sunrisewaldorfschool.org

Other benefits • Music performance teaches young people to conquer fear and to take risks. • Music education develops skills that are necessary in the workplace. • Music education enhances teamwork skills and discipline. • Music education provides children with a means of selfexpression. • Early music education exposure helps develop brain areas involved in language and reasoning

Valley Voice Magazine - Your Monthly Guide to Living in the Cowichan Valley

he idea for a national day to focus on the environment came to Earth Day founder Gaylord Nelson, a U.S. Senator from Wisconsin, after witnessing the ravages of the 1969 massive oil spill in Santa Barbara, California. Inspired by the student anti-war movement, he realized that if he could infuse that energy with an emerging public consciousness about air and water pollution, and force environmental protection onto the national political agenda. Denis Hayes, a motivated environmental advocate from Harvard was brought in to help coordinate this first official ‘Earth Day’ which took place on April 22, 1970. He mobilized twenty million people to “demand federal action” which lead to the creation of the EPA and landmark laws related to Clean Air, Clean Water and Endangered Species that still guide environmental policy around the world today. Twenty years later, in 1990 environmental leaders asked Denis Hayes to organize a bigger campaign- this time worldwide. 200 million people from 141 countries helped to raise the profile of environmental issues with a specific emphasis on recycling around the world. I recall celebrating the 20th Anniversary of Earth Day as a teenager in Toronto while volunteering with the Environmental Youth Alliance.

A thrilling event, participating youth were asked to bring paint brushes from home and were given buckets of limestone paint to “graffiti” earth friendly messages directly onto the streets of Toronto. Thousands of youths took part in this empowering community event that took place at night on the eve of Earth Day. We carried our heavy buckets on the subway and passionately painted environmental messages throughout our north Toronto neighbourhoods. Slogans such as “ Love Mother Earth”, “Recycle Now”, “Save our Oceans” and many more were creatively scripted and keenly illustrated with globes, vines, flowers and peace signs. In the morning Torontonians awoke to glaring text written all over their streets. Residents and business owners were shocked at this “graffiti”. It looked a mess. But the media soon revealed that it wasn’t graffiti at all- they were mindful messages to remind us about better ways to live. Within a few days the biodegradable memos all faded as cars drove over them and the first rains washed them away. However the impact of the messages weren’t lost. Within that same year the Ontario government launched a number of waste reduction initiatives and the curb side blue box program was born throughout the province. These days it feels like the blue boxes were always there, but it was people power that

Some things to think about

Earth Day Memories inspired them. The goal of Earth Day is still the same as it was forty eight years ago. To bring environmental issues around the world to the forefront, encourage dialogue to help shift human behaviour and on a bigger level inspire impacting environmental policy change. According to Hayes, “Earth Day is now the largest secular holiday in the world, celebrated by more than a billion people every year in 192 countries.” 2018’s Earth Day global campaign is to END PLASTIC POLLUTION. From poisoning and injuring marine life to disrupting human hormones, from littering beaches and

landscapes to clogging our waste streams and landfills, the exponential growth of plastics is now threatening the survival of our planet. Consider taking personal responsibility for the plastic pollution that you generate. Choose to reject, reduce, reuse and recycle every piece of plastic that comes into your life. Ban single use plastics from your repertoire. Help elevate the issue of plastic pollution in our community starting with reducing and controlling it in your own home and workplace. Be part of the next movement to a healthier and happier plastic free planet! Submitted by Sheila Badman Earth Day history from https:// www.earthday.org/earthday/

Earth Day Forest Walk & Qi Gong

here are many ways to celebrate Earth Day. Getting outside and enjoying the natural environment by hiking, biking, bird watching, having a picnic, taking photos, and jogging are some of the best ways. My favourite way to celebrate Earth Day is to connect with, and absorb that surge of fresh spring energy. It shows itself as buds on the trees, and small new leaves with their vibrant and luminous green colours, creating all different shades of fresh new greens!

As my energy has grown somewhat sluggish over the winter, I look forward to my spring forest walks. I find the oldest tree in the forest. I touch it, then stand in front of it, pull out my flute and begin to play…… I love to stand close to big old trees, touching them, allowing our energies to unite, focusing on being in the moment. I then like to do my Qi Gong, Tree Energy Exchange Exercise. Breathing deeply, along with slow gentle movements, connecting, and allowing that surge of spring energy flowing

up within the tree, to flow into me. While being energized and revitalized, I send my appreciation and love back to the tree. When I’m done, I pull out my flute once again, and play……… If you would like to join Rommy for a Forest Walk and Qi Gong experience on Earth Day April 22, from 1-3pm, please email rommyflutes@shaw.ca to register. The cost is $20.

Valley Voice Magazine - Your Monthly Guide to Living in the Cowichan Valley

this Earth Day, April 22...

ZERO WASTE

ave you ever wondered about the talk around town, on social media, in papers and on the radio about zero waste? What does zero waste even mean? Zero waste is an attempt to live a lifestyle in which you are reducing your waste as close as possible to zero. In a perfect world, this would be easy to do. However we all know that it’s not! There are things we can do though to decrease our waste without having little effect on our daily lives other than changing a few habits and adding small routines like bringing your own grocery bags to the market or store. To learn the basics of zero waste, we have to start with two very common words we hear when talking about environmental impact; compostable and biodegradable. These are terms that most of us think of as being environmentally friendly. Unfortunately, this is not always the case. What are the actual definitions of these words? Let start with the word biodegradable. This term is one of the most widely misused and misunderstood environmental

buzzwords around right now. As most would think, it means to break down or degrade back to nature. In order for the product to be able to do this, it needs to be made from natural occurring materials, such as plant, animal or mineral based. Even crude oil in it’s raw form can be broken down with water, air and minerals. Unfortunately, many biodegradable products contain added man made petrochemical compounds. As these are not found in nature, there are not natural microorganisms to break these products down. So what ends up happening with these ‘biodegradable’ plastic bags is they just break down into smaller pieces which we are now calling micro plastics. Is the environmental objective to break down this bag into smaller pieces that aren’t actually going to go away? Something to ponder! Most of us are familiar with the term compostable. It is almost synonymous with biodegradable except it refers to only solids, not liquids. Where the term compostable gets misunderstood is how the actual composting needs to take place. Compostable does not mean the item will break down in the landfill, but in a properly designed composting system in order to break down the item into microorganisms. Being aware of what these terms mean can help you identify products you want to purchase and things you’d rather avoid in your attempts to reduce your footprint. So now that we’ve learnt a few things, how can we go about taking steps towards zero waste other than your reusable bags? You toothbrush and dental floss are where I suggest you start. If

into your reusable dishes out of the cardboard that just goes into landfill anyway.

we think about the amount of people in North America alone using these products daily, we can imagine the amount of waste. By changing to a bamboo toothbrush with nylon bristles you are effectively using the same product, (nylon bristles) but with a fraction of the waste! When it is time to dispose of the toothbrush you simply rip the nylon bristles off to go into landfill and the rest of the brush is compostable. Dental floss does the same job when it comes in a cardboard box as opposed to a plastic one, so that’s an easy transition to do as well. I enjoy a nice latte or tea on the go as well, but taking a cardboard to go cup is just not the answer. It is a common misconception that these are recyclable, but due to the thin layer of plastic that lines the cup, most end up in the landfill. This goes for restaurant cardboard containers as well. There are so many local establishments that are more than happy to indulge my desire to live with less waste and still order take out after a busy week! Just ask when you order if they can keep it on plates until you arrive with your take out containers. Not all places are used to this and there is nothing more disappointing than seeing them transfer your food

Carry your own reusable straws, utensils and cups in your car. I have found this is the best way to be ready anytime! By having a little ‘to go kit’ in your glove box or trunk you are ensuring that you can make a difference even when you are busy and on the run. Just imagine how much pollution this would save if we collectively changed our habits! Reducing our waste can also be succeeded by purchasing second hand. Cruise the thrift stores the next time you are looking for a new pair of jeans and you might just score the perfect pair already broken in and at a fraction of the cost compared to if you had bought brand new. Zero waste is not about guilt or shame for the choices we make. It is the choice to change the way we think about our waste and do more to improve our habits. We each produce an estimated 2 kg of waste each day that is neither biodegradable or compostable. That is a staggering amount of waste with our population. If we all spend some energy and thought to slowly support each other in learning to live more zero waste, I know we can do so much better for the planet we call home. Leah Hayes is the co-owner of Enviro Glass Straw along with her husband, Tyler.

John is a retired psychologist and university professor.

n Earth Day, remember that “we all live downstream” and water is just as important as earth. What can we all do to care for the Cowichan Estuary? Walk along almost any road in your neignbourhood and you will see holes in the pavement covered by grills. These are usually called “storm drains” but they don’t just function during storms; they might better be called “rain drains.” – when it rains, anything left on the road or sidewalk can end up in our streams and eventually in the estuary and the ocean, potentially harming the plants and animals living there. • Dirt particles in the water (scientists call it “turbidity”) cut off some of the light needed by the plants that grow in the water. • Oil, paint, and other chemicals can poison the animals that live

in the water. • Each bit of plastic or synthetic fabric that ends up in the water will be a danger to all living things for many years to come.

Be Respectful Nature

• Soaps and detergents affect turbidity and the chemical balance of the water, leading to harmful algae blooms and sick animals and plants. None of this needs to happen. Each of us can take action and together we can make a huge difference in the health of the river, the estuary, the ocean, and all the creatures who live there. Here’s what we can do to keep harmful things out of the rain drains: • Pick up litter, and especially plastic or fabric, whenever you see it in the street or on the sidewalk. • When you are washing a car, bicycle, boat, or anything else, do it on the lawn or over dirt so that the soapy and dirty water soaks into the ground and doesn’t go down the drain.

Rain Drains • Dispose of paint, oil, solvents, and other liquids safely and carefully. Remember that pouring something into a rain drain is just like pouring it into a stream. • Refuse to use plastic bags whenever you can, and make sure all plastic is recycled. Soft plastic is not part of the curbside program but it can be taken to the recycling centre. • Have your class, club, or group paint yellow fish by rain drains and distribute brochures to remind people to be careful. Painting supplies and educational materials are available from the Cowichan Land Trust in Duncan. Call

250-746-0227 or email info@ cowichanlandtrust.ca. • Come to Low Tide Day in Cowichan Bay on Saturday, May 19. In the morning we help clean up the shoreline; in the afternoon we meet some of the many beings near the shore and in the sand and mud who depend on all of us to provide them with clean safe water. Remember that everything that goes down the drain, both at home and from the roads, ends up in the oceans that support us and all life. “We all live downstream.” For to learn more, contact or visit the Cowichan Estuary Nature Centre www.cowichanestuary.ca

Valley Voice Magazine - Your Monthly Guide to Living in the Cowichan Valley

Consider Alternative Energy

Chris and Michelle of Happy Hooves Farm Sanctuary in Sahtlam went solar in 2016 and are now thinking of adding more.

Solar Reaches Tipping Point

t’s a milestone that energy nerds can get excited over. Recently, Viridian Energy Coop passed one megawatt of installed solar on homes and other buildings since its birth in 2012. While that number may not mean much to us laypeople, it adds up to over 4115 solar panels, collectively about the same size as SunMine, BC’s biggest solar project in an abandoned mine near Kimberly. Kuan-Jian Foo of Viridian believes their first customers tended to be driven mainly by environmental issues, but lately more people are recognizing the economic opportunity. Says Kuan, “We did one installation for a couple where the wife pushed her skeptical husband to do it, but a year later he was the one who called us up to ask for more panels because he saw the returns!” Solar is at a tipping point because the cost of panels has fallen dramatically while their efficiency at generating electricity has gone up. For

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a home or business owner considering solar, this is weighed against the alternative – what they would pay BC Hydro for the equivalent electricity. So, every time BC Hydro raises its rates, going solar gets more attractive. And, if you are displacing more expensive “Tier 2” electricity (check your bill), it’s more attractive still. Unless it’s a remote location, here’s how it works: a homeowner’s solar panels are plugged into the grid instead of a battery, and this rolls back your BC Hydro electricity bills by the amount you generate. In the summer you may even generate more than you use, so you earn a credit towards winter bills. The money you don’t pay BC Hydro is your return on investment, and at today’s numbers and based on Vancouver Island’s weather patterns, that adds up to about 4-8%, better than most GICs. Viable projects start at about $8,000, with the average at about $15,000. They take about 15 years to pay off, but seen another way are improvements that raise the value of your home, just like renovating your kitchen. The process starts by assessing

the location. A southerly-sloping roof without much tree shade is promising but east-west roofs are also now viable.. Viridian can take a first look at your property remotely by looking at Google maps, and if that looks good will do a site visit to take more precise measurements. If there isn’t a suitable roof, it is possible to erect ground mounts for solar panels in an open space, but this does add to the cost. Viridian started in the Cowichan Valley, but as the interest in solar has grown, now installs all over Vancouver Island, the Gulf Islands and in remote locations throughout BC. In addition to homes, there is now more interest by municipalities – such as the CVRD demonstration project at Bings Creek – and even among farms which often have nice big

south facing barn roofs. The growth in local solar installations is part of a global trend. Solar is the fastest-growing source of new energy worldwide. This isn’t surprising considering that enough solar energy hits the Earth each hour to meet all of humanity’s energy needs for a year. As we get more adept at capturing that energy with better solar panels, expect this tipping point to turn into a revolution. If you want to explore going solar at your home or business, contact Viridian at viridanenergy. ca Matt Price is a writer based in Cowichan Station.

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There Must Be Something In The Water David Slade Cobble Hill Well Driller and Grandfather

rom South Africa to Australia from Syria to California and right here in the Cowichan Valley it seems people are talking about our fresh water resources. Whether it is too little or too much, threatened, polluted or regulated, it is something most of us have stopped just taking for granted. In many parts of the world including BC, fresh water has been regarded in years past as abundant and thus afforded little value. While it is not more valuable than gold, it is certainly more vital and worthy of the global attention that it now seems to be getting. Here in BC it took a long time for the Provincial Government to update the more than 100 year old Water Act and replace it

in 2016 with the Water Sustainability Act. In doing so, the Province of BC finally joined every other Province and nearly every US State to include Ground Water as a natural resource that it manages and licenses (licenses required for â&#x20AC;&#x153;nondomesticâ&#x20AC;? use only). The new Act also opened the door to the possibility of local governance and decision making in regional watersheds. While no one knows exactly what that means since no region has been granted such authority, the Cowichan is certainly well positioned to be a pilot for the legislation. We are extremely fortunate to have an established and healthy collaborative relationship between Cowichan Tribes the CVRD, and numerous other stakeholders in the organization called the Cowichan Watershed Board. The Watershed Board, created in 2010 has been very active in supporting groups and individuals working in the

Valley Voice Magazine - Your Monthly Guide to Living in the Cowichan Valley

You Brush Your Teeth! local stewardship community as well as gathering and sharing information on Watershed related issues. For example: When water testing in numerous creeks, the Koksilah River and Cowichan Bay revealed elevated levels of fecal coliform bacteria from cows, the Cowichan Watershed Board reached out to local dairy farmers, resulting in 12 farms joining a group environmental farm plan to improve water quality, and minimize nutrient run off. A further shout-out to the farming community along the Koksilah river who voluntarily cut back on their irrigation pumping at a time when the river flows were dangerously low. The Watershed Board has engaged the region’s 7 major water suppliers in a 4-year challenge to reduce the per capita household water consumption and are currently promoting rainwater harvesting in a “Capture the Rain” campaign, and a “Fix a Drip” million litre water saving challenge. The most recent and concerning news is the testing and reporting of extremely high levels of phosphates in many of the rivers and Lakes in the Cowichan Valley. This nutrient overload has resulted in large algae blooms which most likely caused the death of several pets and can suffocate fish by removing all of the oxygen from the water. Many of these phosphates and other contaminates are from fertilizers, cleaners and malfunctioning or poorly designed and located septic systems, while some phosphates in the upper Koksilah region may be from

industrial activities such as logging and road building. The good news from the recent testing is that fecal coliform levels from farm activities in the watershed seem to be dropping. Mother Nature has an amazing system of providing, purifying, filtering and recycling our fresh water, but the capacity to do those things is not without limit. As I write this article, Earth Day is fast approaching, and since there are so many of us on this Earth, we need to find ways to reduce or eliminate our accumulating harmful impacts. There is lots that we can do as individuals, such as switch to non toxic cleaners, fertilizers and pest/ weed controls; have our septic systems inspected and pumped regularly; use and reuse water efficiently; cycle more, fly less; keep plastics away from water bodies; and most important - support those leaders in society and in government who are trying to blaze a trail to a sustainable future for us all. An extraordinary trail blazer is a fellow named Gord Baird from the Highlands in Victoria. He is speaking at the Cowichan Watershed Board – VIU free speaker series on March 22nd which is Earth Day. This is most appropriate since Gord and his partner Ann Baird have built and are living in one of the “Greenest Modern” homes on the planet. They practice sustainable building, agriculture, and living lightly on the planet as well as teach others the skills and lessons they have learned. Not only do they talk the talk and walk the walk, they are

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www.afﬁnitycoaching.ca both elected councillors in the Highlands Municipality, where they are also playing a role in steering building and development in the CRD towards a more sustainable path. The Cowichan is an amazing place full of incredible people engaged in fighting and adapting to climate change, battling invasive species, restoring damaged shorelines and riparian areas, rehabilitating the estuary and the lakes, protecting habitat and endangered species, and

generally fighting to make sure that future generations enjoy the beauty and the bounty of this place we are so lucky to call home. There is truly something special about this place and it’s people. Perhaps there is something in the water.

Embrace Recycling!

ow is that time of the year, between the excitement of the Earth Day and the rush of Spring, that we often find a quiet moment for reflection. Now, you may not find yourself reflecting on the state of the electronics recycling industry in British Columbia. But I do. A lot. Particularly, today I want to help dispel a few myths about electronics recycling in BC and hopefully help divert even more hazardous waste out of our landfills.

Electronics Dismantled In Canada

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“I Love Shawnigan” Clean Up

n Earth Day, join us for the “I Love Shawnigan” Clean Up event, April 22nd, from 10-2pm at the SLCC. Teams will cover zones around the lake and high traffic areas, equipped with bags, gloves, tongs, and instructions to tag and bag the litter safely and responsibly. This event is sponsored by the South Cowichan Rotary Club and the CVRD, together with

P.A.N. Disposal and Fisher Rd Recycling. Attendees can enjoy a celebration of “Spring Cleaning Our Area” and get inspired to Litter Watch in their own neighbourhoods. Volunteers 12yrs+ can register at www. southcowichanrotary.org or sign up at the event. Many hearts working together will make a lasting difference!

Myth: Environmental Handling Fees are just a hidden tax by the government. The fees are actually collected by the industry in accordance with the Electronic Products Recycling Association (EPRA). The EPRA is a national not-for-profit entity that oversees the recycling of electronics in Canada. The fees do not go to the government at all, and 100% goes to pay for the administration, collection, transportation, and responsible recycling of electronics. Myth: Recycled electronics simply get shipped overseas and dismantled in unsafe environments. All electronics collected in BC at EPRA affiliated locations are sent to approved primary recyclers in North America! These facilities must adhere to strict standards for dealing with substances of concern (mercury, lead, etc.) and ensure that usable materials (glass, plastics, metals) are recycled into the manufacturing stream. Not only that, but all of their downstream processors are also subject to the highest levels of adherence to environmental, occupational health and safety, export and other standards.

anyway. Actually, aside from cheaper materials such as glass and plastics, electronics contain many valuable metals that can be salvaged and recycled. This means less mining and destruction of the natural environment. And technologies for recycling e-waste are continually improving, leading to increased efficiency and sustainability of the programs. Technology continues to advance at an incredible rate, which means that more and more waste is being produced. Thankfully we have a great, safe system for recycling electronics in BC. So, now you have no excuses! It’s time to bring in that old laptop, TV, VCR (why do you still have that?!), camera, fax machine... or that annoying beeping and flashing kid’s toy that doesn’t beep or flash so well anymore to Island Return It’s locations. Duncan – Cobble Hill If after all this you still have questions, you can find more information on our website here: www.islandreturnit.com Or, you visit the EPRA BC website here: recyclemyelectronics.ca/bc

Myth: Electronic recycling processes are too expensive and not much can be salvaged

Valley Voice Magazine - Your Monthly Guide to Living in the Cowichan Valley

Sophy Roberge is the Marketing Manager for Island Return It Recycling Centres.

I h a o s a a a w a w y p p i V o a c s f a g c c o a O

Grow Your Own Food

Ronan Segall serenading our sheep to help increase milk production. Image Kate Segall

over by ducks who pooped everywhere, our rabbits didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t breed and our ewes didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t produced as much milk as we expected. So much for our fantasy of daily egg collecting, drinking sheep milk macchiatos and watching ducks swim on the pond! Looking back, we had no idea what we were getting ourselves into but we persevered and learned to build fences and chicken coops, wrangle sheep, deliver lambs, process roosters, breed rabbits and control pests.

From City to Homestead

ight from our first date, my husband and I dreamed of living on a homestead. Despite residing at that time, in the midst of downtown Toronto, surrounded by concrete and a constant barrage of people and noise, we both envisioned a calm, quiet, rural life where we could grow our own food and raise our own animals, as well as our kids! Within a few years we had achieved a large part of that dream when we purchased a small hobby farm in the beautiful Cowichan Valley! Armed with plenty of enthusiasm, optimism and ambition, we quickly acquired chicks, ducks, rabbits and sheep as well as many mature fruit trees, a massive grape arbor and a gigantic vegetable garden. What a learning curve! We experienced many challenges: our chicks turned out to be mostly roosters, and boy, were they mean. Our beautiful deck was taken

Most importantly we discovered the kind, generous support of the homesteading community. They saved us on many occasions providing information, suggestions and the benefit of their experience. We can now proudly claim that after a little over 2 years we collect many eggs daily, the rabbits are due any day now, we have a freezer full of lamb and a family of mallard ducks have made our pond their home! Fingers crossed a hen will get broody! The Vancouver Island Homesteading Fair is a great opportunity to connect: exchange knowledge, skills and experience! Come check it out on May 5th and 6th at the Cobble Hill Fair Grounds. Hope to see you there! www.homesteadingfair.ca Submitted by Kate Segall

Stand Up For What You Believe In

Paulina is a member of the Forest yogini collective. She teaches weekly corporate yoga classes in Duncan. For more class info please visit yogawithpaulina.com.

he Kinder Morgan pipeline currently transports crude oil and refined products from Alberta to refineries and export terminals on the B.C. and Washington State coasts. The expansion project’s goal is to triple the existing pipeline’s capacity by constructing 12 new pump stations, 19 new storage tanks and three new marine berths to be located at Westridge Marine Terminal in Burrard Inlet near Vancouver. Oil sent to Westridge Marine Terminal will be loaded onto oil tankers and carried out to the open ocean by first passing Vancouver, the quiet Gulf Islands, and the Juan de Fuca Strait, including Victoria, Sooke, China Beach, and Port Renfrew. Why is there concern? The

prospect of an oil spill on the BC coast and the open ocean worries many people. There is concern about an increase in oil tanker traffic in our waters from around 60 oil tankers to more than 400 per year. Some of these tankers would likely dock along the coast of Vancouver Island from Ladysmith down to Cowichan Bay and Mill Bay when the waterways are crowded. The tankers leaving BC contain diluted bitumen while the ones coming in could contain natural gas condensate which is highly flammable. This is mixed with bitumen for easier transport and is the same substance the Iranian tanker Sanchi was carrying when it collided with another ship in the East China Sea in January of this year. That caused an oil spill the size of Paris; what Alaskan-based marine scientist and oil-spill specialist Richard Steiner calls a “serious ecological injury”. Not much is known about a diluted bitumen spill which is why the BC Government has restricted any increase in bitumen shipments through BC until more spill response studies are completed. And so recently, One Cowichan invited the community to discuss what we can do. We meaning you and me and everyone else who lives in and

Local Concerns Over the Kinder Morgan Pipeline? loves the Cowichan Valley. It can be difficult to speak out about what you stand for but many people feel that now is the time to act and support the work that is already being done. Protect the Inlet, Tiny House Warriors, Camp Cloud and others are examples of groups on the front lines that need support. Most groups need people to show up and be present on the front lines or provide donations. Some islanders are planning to travel once a week to the mainland to join the front lines for a day at a time. Some people are taking action by removing their funds out of big banks that invest in oil and transferring to credit unions. Many now are using renewable sources of energy like solar panels,

bio-diesel, and geo-thermal, or finding ways to use less fuel by walking, cycling, taking the bus, carpooling or driving hybrid or electric vehicles. People may either strongly oppose or strongly support this pipeline. With these differences how do we move forward with respect and understanding? One Cowichan offers a platform to engage in those conversations. If you would like to connect with other folks wanting to find ways to support groups already taking action or to help organize a local event celebrating the work our community is doing to move towards a sustainable future, please visit: onecowichan.ca.

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B k a c S w w o c u l a h h e g f h w B S f s

S n r c a p e a A s r e D r

South Island Whale Report

t’s been an exciting spring out on the water so far. Both resident and Biggs killer whales have been around a lot! J pod had spent close to two weeks in the Strait of Georgia and we were able to get out there with them on a couple of occasions with perfect water conditions! They were their usual boisterous selves with lots of breaches, tail lobs and spyhops. The mammal hunting, Biggs killer whales, have been no disappointment either. We have had some great encounters with them so far, including a couple of seal hunts! On one particular day, we had over 50 individual Biggs killer whales in the Salish Sea! It was so exciting for us…..not so much for the seals and sea lions. Some really big killer whale news was just released recently. One of our captains, Gary Sutton, was a co-author on a scientific paper documenting the first ever sighting of infanticide amongst killer whales. Although the news and scientific paper were just released to the public, the encounter happened in December of 2016. A post reproductive female, T068

and her son, T068A were seen attacking and killing a newborn killer whale calf that was known to researchers as T046B5. The calfs mother, T046B and the rest of her offspring fought back to try and save the calf. Whales ramming into each other, haunting vocals, new injuries all over the whales, It truly was a clash of the titans. In the end, T068 and T068A managed to kill the calf. This was very significant in the science world as it was the first ever record of infanticide amongst killer whales but, furthermore, it was the first ever documented sighting when a mother (T068) assisted her son (T068A) in the act of infanticide in any species other than humans. It’s shaping up to be another great season and we can’t wait to see what other great encounters it has in store!

Gary Sutton, avid photographer and cetacean researcher. is a lead captain at Ocean EcoVentures.

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Alexa and her animal crew live, work and play at Firefly Farm on Quamichan Lake. Learn more at www.alexalinton.com

fter returning home from teaching an animal communication workshop this weekend, my mind starting wandering. It wandered back to the many women in the course who persistently claimed that “they couldn’t do this” and this wasn’t for them, and consistently proved those claims false through their actions. It wandered to the self-judgement present for so many of us, including myself, inner criticism that so often shows up as harsh generalizations, exaggerations of our mistakes, inner blame and intense and frequent proclamations of our failures. It stands to reason that these particular frequent behaviours, all arising in the face of learning something both new and, at least in the eyes of many, a little odd, are actually well-disguised and insidious conditioning at work. Consider this. Animal communication in and of itself is a rebellious act. It’s one of the reasons I think it’s a fantastic endeavor. Here’s a few ways it embodies the spirit of rebellion: 1) it is innately about connecting to your body, deeply and fully, and sitting in connection and empathy for all beings - as much as I’d like to say this was encouraged by our culture, we are not quite there yet! 2) it requires us to acknowledge animals for the thinking, feeling, deep beings that they are, and to begin treating them as such. This means incorporating bigger concepts and understandings around consent, boundaries, emotional intelligence and equality. This means changing

how we previously experienced our human-animal relationships in big and important ways and 3) we are required to acknowledge ourselves as intuitive, something that once upon a time was thought to be a skill only a very few had, or was hidden from the world for fear of punishment. In this case, as one gal expressed in the workshop, it’s time to let our freak flag fly! And as another participant learned from a very helpful exercise with some antelope, there is safety and strength in numbers. Personally, I’m a big fan of rebellious acts. They cultivate the courage required to live the life of our choosing, and not just how we feel we should live according to everyone else. They help us remember that even though we may be scared, our fear will be overwhelmed by our renewed sense of capability and strength. Over my many years of working with animals, one thing is clear. They are big fans of rebellious acts. After all, it was a series of rebellious acts that created an environment where cruelty was a rare occurrence and not the norm, that lead to books about animal communication, that deemed it important to make a documentary, that drove Dr. Jane Goodall to do her amazing work in the world, that motivate people like myself and Laura Bird to keep moving courageously forward with our teaching and sharing. And it will be rebellious acts, ones like choosing to follow your curiosity to an animal communication class, choosing compassion, choosing to say no to those inner voices that try to stop you, choosing to work with your horse differently, or choosing to stand up for the well-being of animals in your community, that will change the world for animals as we move forward.

Once upon a time, someone told me that my inner critics were actually the voices of the patriarchy. And that fit just right for me and clarified so much of my long-time inner struggle. We were raised under the often unseen conditioning of a deeply patriarchal and unfortunately, Communicating With Animals somewhat broken, culture. No wonder Is A Rebellious Act... loving ourselves, believing in ourselves and trusting our own knowing is such a rebellious, courageous act. Activation at Firefly Farm It is an action and a way of living on April 14-15th, and Laura Bird will be here to share the that I will always be a raving remaining three modules of her fan of. accredited Animal Translator program in July. All the details If you’re an animal person with a hankering to get a little rebellious are at www.alexalinton.com/ animal-translator-program. Hope and have a whole lot of fun, I am to see you soon! sharing Animal Communication:

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Valley Voice Magazine - Your Monthly Guide to Living in the Cowichan Valley

Lucky Dog

Please pick up your poop… Debbie Wood is a certified Small Animal Naturopath and can be reached at 250-597-7DOG.

e are fortunate to have so many great places to walk our dogs in the Cowichan Valley. Many of these places provide us with poo bag stations and trash cans to help keep the parks clean. What a time to be alive. Some people don’t pick up after their dogs when they find themselves with out a bag (oops, I’ve done it). Some people think that dog poop is perfectly compostable item that Mother Nature can take care of. It isn’t. The food most us give our pets is not great. The stuff that comes out the other end is indigestible, that’s why it’s coming out. Bad food makes bad poop and other creatures don’t want to eat it either. So, a poop will sit there on the boulevard for months without decomposing. Some dogs are on pharmaceuticals or supplements that shouldn’t be put into the environment or eaten by other creatures.

There are diseases that can be spread via poop and parasites love to spread through poop contact. I’m sure I don’t need to mention that stepping in poop is not pleasant, especially with rugged soles. Think about your fellow dog lovers and clean up after your dog. I keep poo bags on hand like I keep lip balm on hand; a roll in the car, a roll at home, a roll in the purse, a roll at work. They are also handy in some first-aid situations. There are trails that don’t go in a loop and you will sometimes see that someone bagged their poo and just dropped it on the side of the trail. I do this because I’m coming back an don’t want to carry it all the way. I pick it up on my way off the trail and dispose of it properly. There are some trails that are notorious for plentiful turds. I do my best to not only pick up mine, but one more. (I know, picking up cold poop is creepy.) This system helps keep an area clean making people more likely to clean up their poop and I feel better that I’ve covered my poo karma because I don’t always get every one of my own dog’s poo on dark and stormy nights. Or I was caught without a bag once before. Or the bags I brought had all been used. It happens, poop happens.

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We are all in this together and want our beautiful valley to be pristine. Pick up your poop, just do it. Keep bags stocked, pick up yours plus one more, dispose of it properly (not flinging it into the bush to hang on a branch for years, you know who you are), and we can all enjoy our walks with our dogs. We all thank you.

Spring Concert for a Syrian Refugee Family

he Cowichan Valley, through the Cowichan Intercultural Society and private sponsorship groups, has already helped a large number of families fleeing from Syria to settle amongst us in the Valley. Canada opened its doors to a finite number and for a finite amount of time, and the last ones of this number are still in the process of being admitted. The “Glenora Group for Syria” is a private sponsorship group expecting a family of three one single mom with her two daughters - to arrive very soon. Funds need to be raised to support them for at least a year from the day they arrive. To that end, a unique concert is being offered on April 29th at 2 pm at Duncan United Church.

ry Grad is an alcohol and THE GREAT FKSS drug free celebration for graduating students that is DRY GRAD inclusive, safe and so memorable. GARAGE SALE Started in 1989 by the Summit APRIL 28 Alcohol and Drug Services, Dry Grad Night has become an annual tradition for our high school students. Since its inception, there have been no fatalities on graduation night in the Cowichan Valley. We have 208 graduating students and have already been fundraising with two bottle drives, two pub nights at The Cobblestone and at The Bay Pub, Mini Xmas Tree Sales, Purdy’s Chocolates and a firewood sale. There is a Metal Bin at the school for metal recycling. Dry Grad costs about $185 per grad – this covers food, snacks, activities, entertainment, decorations, prized and a gift bag for each student. Head to FKSS and check out the amazing quantity of items. If you are interested in donating any unwanted items, big or small, you can drop them off at Mill Bay Storage and ask for the Dry Grad key to unit E11. It’s a win win – you get to purge, we get to sell! April 28, Frances Kelsey High School, 953 Shawnigan Lake-Mill Bay Rd, Mill Bay

Performers include the wellloved Glenora Farm Handbell Choir, directed by Annette Lampson, The Vancouver Island Harp Ensembles, and the Jubilate Choir, plus some surprise young soloists! The Vancouver Island Harp Ensembles are students of Marilyn Rummel, at her Harp Canada studio in Duncan, and the Nanaimo Conservatory of Music. They join together to enjoy

making music in a group, but especially because the skills they develop in playing together are so valuable in all their playing. They play in Seniors’ homes, and at other events, and the youth ensembles have played, with much success at Music festivals in Duncan, and in Vancouver. Glenora Farm Bell Choir consists of adults with special needs and caregivers living and working together at Glenora Farm. Aside from working in the organically grown gardens, or in a craft workshop such as the weavery or the candle dipping workshop, they also participate in artistic activities every day such as playing bells in the bell choir. The bell choir performs regularly at public venues; has played in the Duncan Music Festival several times, and has delighted audiences while playing with the Duncan Camerata and Duncan Choral Society. Jubilate Choir, one of the Cowichan Valley’s few acapella choirs, was founded by director A. Lampson. Their program will include favorites from Early Eastern and French Renaissance Music to modern African pieces. The concert will also feature a silent auction and treats cooked by families from Syria. Entry is by suggested donation $20. Children 12 and under free entry. For more info contact annette.lampson@gmail.com

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Valley Voice Magazine - Your Monthly Guide to Living in the Cowichan Valley

Traditional Plant Medicine Workshop

he longer humans study wellness the more we come to understand the depth of our need for connection. In our busy and transient lives, it often feels like connection is a moving target. If we are lucky enough to learn from our elders, we learn to be still and receive instead of achieve at a frenetic pace. It is the same with nature, our eldest elder. All Nations Wellness Centre was founded 6 years ago to be a place where people can come to be in connection with themselves, a community of like-minded people, elders, and nature. It is our hope that people are full of this connection when they leave, so that they can bring some of that stillness into the greater community. Della Rice-Sylvester is a Cowichan Elder who has been taught the traditional and modern ways of using plants as medicine. Della has had a life of connection with the natural world. Her love for the plants and for people is an enlivening experience. During

the workshops you will enjoy hearing many stories filled with the passion she has for restoring wellbeing. You will learn to relate to the plants as friends and allies, and to make medicine with love.

In our April workshop we will explore the spring plants in the Skutz Falls area. We will also make salves with the plants that we wildcraft at the workshop. You will be able to take some of them home, and the rest will be donated to the elders gathering happening in the Cowichan Valley in June. You can go home with the knowledge that you are giving back to the community in a good way. Ethical Harvest by Robin Kimmerer Never take the first one Listen for the answer Ask permission Take only what you need Use everything you take Minimize harm Be grateful Reciprocate the gift Share what you have taken Take only that which is given to us Traditional Plant Medicine Workshop with Della RiceSylvester, April 14-15, 10-4 each day, $250 for weekend includes meals. email rebeccachristofferson@gmail. com fb:allnationswellness

Tofino Bus All Island Expands Service To South Island Communities

ofino Bus All Island expands service to south Island communities With Greyhound set to stop service on Vancouver Island, Tofino Bus All Island is rolling in to make sure there’s no loss of bus service on southern Vancouver Island. Tofino Bus All Island has taken over Greyhound’s remaining southern Island routes, adding communities between Nanaimo and Victoria to a service area that was already the largest on Vancouver Island. “It’s the latest step in our evolution as a premium service provider for residents and tourists looking to get around the entire Island,” says Tofino Bus All Island founder and president Dylan Green. Last summer, Greyhound Canada applied to the B.C. Passenger Transportation Board to discontinue its service between Victoria and Nanaimo, citing declining ridership as its primary reason. Tofino Bus All Island, which already operated express service between Victoria and Nanaimo, was approved to expand its service to include all the smaller communities along the route in November. “We’ve been doing this all along,” says Green. “When

Greyhound stopped going to Tofino, we increased our schedule to make sure there was no loss of service for the communities of Port Alberni, Ucluelet and Tofino. We did the same in 2015 when Greyhound pulled out of Port Hardy, Campbell River and Courtenay. We’re proud that we’re a local Island company, and we’re stepping up to make sure every community on the Island still has bus service.” Though Greyhound hasn’t officially stopped its south Island service, Tofino Bus All Island Express is already operating three scheduled trips per day each way between Victoria and Nanaimo, with an extra daily trip on Fridays and Sundays. That service will increase, Green says, once Greyhound abandons the route. Smaller south Island communities now being served by Tofino Bus All Island Express include Mill Bay, Cobble Hill, Cowichan Bay, Duncan, Chemainus, Ladysmith and Departure Bay. Reservations are required for Mill Bay, Cobble Hill, Chemainus and Ladysmith. In addition to its route expansion, Tofino Bus has taken over management of the Duncan bus terminal, so Green says it’s “business as usual” for freight and ticketing services. For Tofino Bus schedules and information on freight, fares and charter services, visit www. tofinobus.com or call 1-866-9863466.

Valley Voice Magazine - Your Monthly Guide to Living in the Cowichan Valley

Georgia Nicols M.A. is Canada’s most popular astrologer. A Buddhist, this Vancouver-based astrologer is featured in regional papers across Canada, the United States, and New Zealand. www.georgianicols.com

Aries (March 21-April 19) Happy birthday! Your hour has arrived! Not only is the Sun in your sign where it will stay for the next four weeks, retrograde Mercury and Venus are in Aries as well. This means you will energize and replenish yourself in the next month. It also means you will attract people and favourable situations to you, especially expartners and old friends from the past. Note: You will also have to deal with silly, goofy mistakes. Aagghhh. On the upside, it will be easier to finish old business. Taurus (April 20-May 20) An auspicious influence is in play now: Those who want to study the past or research history or seek out answers to old problems will be successful because Mercury retrograde will encourage any journey into the past. You will find hidden answers! You will discover arcane information and solutions that previously eluded you. Good news for academics, authors, researchers, historians and anyone who wants to know more about their family skeletons and where that treasure is really buried. Boo! Gemini (May 21-June 20) You’re popular this month! You’re out there flying your colours and everyone wants you to be on their team. You will also attract old friends and people from your past, especially people from clubs, groups and organizations. These interactions will give you a chance to bounce your ideas off someone to get helpful feedback. Avoid disputes about inheritances, shared property, insurance issues and taxes. Keep smiling!

Cancer (June 21-July 22) This month the Sun is at the top of your chart shining a flattering spotlight on you. Bosses, parents and VIPs will be impressed, even if you don’t do anything special. Obviously, you can use this “smoke and mirrors” to advance your agenda. Expect to meet old bosses from the past who can provide you with contacts. The only downside is you might feel annoyed with a partner or close friend. Cope and be a good friend.

partners, ex-spouses and old friendships. Fair Venus, opposite your sign will sweeten these relationships and make them charming and delightful. You will, however, need more sleep. Respect your need for more rest because you are erratic in your sleep. Increased activity and chaos at home are likely. Stay on top of this because you like harmony at home.

Leo (July 23-Aug. 22) Lucky Leos will travel this month. You want a change of scenery and some adventure! Fun and stimulation! “Yeehaw! This is my first rodeo!” You will also enjoy increased study or a chance to take a course to broaden your horizons. Note: Because of the influence of Mercury retrograde, it’s best to visit or travel to places you have been to before. If not, don’t worry but double check all details. Fiery Mars will keep you working hard this month. Work hard – party hard!

Scorpio (Oct. 23-Nov. 21) Call it spores in the air, call it a shift in the universe but you will be hard-working, effective and efficient this month. This influence comes along only once a year, which means you must use it to your advantage. Get as much done as you can! You want to improve your health. You want to eat better. You want to exercise more. Thoughts of a summer bathing suit loom ahead and you want to be svelte! Do what you can to buff that bod. This month you’re busy with errands, short trips, reading and writing and mucho conversations. Go, go, go!

Virgo (Aug. 23-Sept. 22) You have an increased focus on shared property, taxes, debt, insurance issues, inheritances, wills and estates i.e. how your wealth and assets interact with the wealth of others. This same focus might include a difference of values. This month you will deal with these areas. Fortunately, Mercury retrograde will help you clean up loose ends and finalize areas that have been dragging on due to disputes, confusion or procrastination. Meanwhile, your sex drive will be amped. Lots to write about in your diary! (But who has time to write?)

Sagittarius (Nov. 22-Dec. 21) It’s fun city for you this month! This is the one time of year when your mandate is to be yourself, have fun, flirt, play and express your creative talents. This is the perfect time to take a vacation. It’s also a great time to focus on physical sports, the entertainment world, the hospitality industry and anything to do with working with or teaching children. If you work in the arts, you will be productive because your desire to express your creative energy will be strong. Meanwhile, old flames from your past are back in the picture. Look sharp!

Libra (Sept. 23-Oct. 22) The Sun is opposite your sign this month drawing your focus to partners and close friends. Meanwhile, Mercury retrograde increases your focus on ex-

Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan. 19) You value home and family. This month, your focus on home and family will increase, especially your involvement with a parent figure. Relatives and family

April Forecast members you haven’t seen for awhile might be parked on your doorstep. (Stock the fridge.) You will also enjoy redecorating your digs and buying pretty things for your home. Will you have the energy for all this? Of course! Fiery Mars is in your sign for the next month, giving you lots of vim, vigour and vitality! Remember to steal quiet time to enjoy the beauty of your lovely home. Aquarius (Jan. 20-Feb. 18) Fasten your seatbelts for a busy month! Suddenly, you’ve got things to do, people to see and places to go! Short trips, errands, conversations with others, more time spent with siblings, neighbours and relatives plus increased reading, writing and studying are why you have a jampacked schedule. Unfortunately, retrograde Mercury will create confused communications, lost paperwork, travel delays, transportation problems, flat tires, missed buses and appointments. But you will have a chance to rethink things and replan and renegotiate. Pisces (Feb. 19-March 20) “Show me the money!” This month, you’re focused on earnings, cash flow and your possessions. You want to save money and earn more money. Some want to buy beautiful things. The good news is that Venus and the Sun will attract money to you. The bad news is retrograde Mercury will delay money coming to you. Whaaat? Cheques in the mail will be late. People who owe you money will be slow to pay up. Grrrr. Meanwhile, you’ll be active with groups, clubs and friends. Save your pennies for travel. Bon voyage! www.georgianicols.com

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Valley Voice Magazine - Your Monthly Guide to Living in the Cowichan Valley

breath, but allowing it to deepen naturally and to flow into your belly. Invite the breath to flow all the way down to your root chakra (perineum) and your 2nd chakra (naval centre). Pay special attention to your heart, imagine the breath flowing through the heart, allowing it to open and to shine as bright as the sun, glowing, warm, and alive. When you feel relaxed and calm, start to imagine what it is that you desire, inviting its energy into your awareness. This may be through imagination, words or feelings, there is no right or wrong way, whatever works for you. Maybe even imagine it as a little seed you are planting into the light energy of your heart.

An Ayurvedic Perspective Planting Seeds

pril is a wonderful time to plant the seeds for what we would like to sow in the coming months. Our thoughts, words, and imagination hold power, and with them we transform and open the door to unrealized dreams and abundance. We often block ourselves off from the things we want and need, by not believing them possible. Springtime is a perfect time to change these thought processes, opening the door for growth and fulfillment. A few minutes of practice a day is all you need to create the space for your intention to grow. To plant your seed, allow yourself a few minutes to sit and relax, or even to lie down. If you practice yoga or meditation, after your practice is a wonderful time to create space for this exercise. The Practice Take some deep breaths, inhaling in through the nose, and exhaling out through the mouth, allowing yourself to release into the earth. This helps shift old thought patterns, stress left over from the day, and clears your energy channels, opening your being to possibility. Allow about 5 minutes here to slow your breathing down, not forcing the

Take a few minutes each day to come back to this dream, and water it with positive emotion, with belief. Imagine it coming to life and mindfully give it affirmations, this waters the seed. With time, and proper care, it can grow and open into a beautiful flower, offering to you its love, its harvest and its abundance. Asrael is an Ayurvedic Practitioner/Coach/Yoga Teacher in the Cowichan Valley. Her deepest joy is supporting others as they grow and evolve into the fullness of their being. Visit her website to see more about Ayurveda and its reflection in you. www.ayurvedicbliss.com

ROWAN HAMILTON MEDICAL HERBALIST

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Zak Stolk Violin Maker

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Robâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Lighthouse Eatery & Art Gallery Fresh, friendly, affordable and pet-friendly! OpenED Daily 8am-6pm Heated patio or take out

*Award Winning Chowder* Grilled Seasoned Fish & Chicken Great Burgers, Fries, Wraps & More!

Dine In on our heated patio or Take Out! Cowichan Bay

Asrael is an Ayurvedic Practitioner and Yoga Teacher in the Cowichan Valley.

DIRECTORY OF LOCAL SERVICES

Valley Voice Magazine readers directory a great way to discover local services and businesses. 2 sizes of ad space are available to suit every business message and budget. Affordable, stylish and straight to the point.

Directory Size A - 1 logo + 8-12 word listing Full Colour 1 X $63 6X $53 12X $43 Black & White 1 X $52 6X $42 12X $32

Contact Adrienne Richards for more info 250 510 6596 or by phone to adrienne@cowichanvalleyvoice.com

Deadline APRIL 12 for MAY 2018 Issue 114 Ayurveda

Natural Beauty

Prudence

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Natural Skincare & Cosmetics

Coaching, Counselling, Yoga Therapies & Bodywork

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Childcare Services

MID-BRAIN ACTIVATION

A home childcare program inspired by nature and the Waldorf philosophy for ages 3 to 5

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Computers

In-Home Computer Lessons

Organizing your computer Office Programs Business Office Assistance

Social Media Website Building PC’s and Mac’s

Call Nettie: 250-510-0408 Website: www.inhomecomputerlessons.com E-mail: nettekevw@gmail.com

Employment

Framing and Local Art 139 Station St. 250-748-3311 ssgfs@telus.net Professional Framing •Local Art •Unique Gifts

Photography

Raindog Camera Services Photos that help tell your stories. www.facebook.com/fotomatic5/

Promotions

Choose us to promote your business and services. Over 30,000 readers! Contact Adrienne Richards 250 510 6596 adrienne@cowichanvalleyvoice.com for a 2017 Rate Card.

Farms & Food

More than a Meat Shop

Gluten Free/Organic Pasta’s, Organic Meat, Homemade Sausage, International Foods. The Duncan Butcher 430 Trans Canada Hwy 250 748 -6377

• Bulk Natural Foods • Bosch Kitchen Centre • Workshops • Take Out Dahl & Rice WHIPPLETREE JUNCTION 778 422 3310

Valley Voice Magazine - Your Monthly Guide to Living in the Cowichan Valley

Health and Healing Acute or Chronic conditions • Substance dependency • Facial Rejuvenation • MSP & extended health coverage if applicable

Customizable Organic Mattresses, Pillows, Linens Locally made Platform Beds and Furniture

Wu Wei Acupuncture & Acupressure Clinic Frauke McCashin, R.Ac., Dipl.TCM 1 - (250) 710 3581 Mill Bay & Duncan www.worldwuwei.com

126 Station St. 250-597-REST (7378) www.resthouse.ca

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Join Brett Holland for Jingui Golden Shield Qi classes every Wednesday

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Stephanie Cerins 250-732-4599 or happinessishealthy@gmail.com www.happinessishealthy.com

Relax, Rest & Repair, to help your body heal naturally

Handyman

For plumbing repairs/installations and handyman services

Choose us to promote your business and services. Over 30,000 readers! Contact Adrienne Richards 250 510 6596 adrienne@cowichanvalleyvoice.com for a 2017 Rate Card.

please call Al @250-710-7856 Nutritionist

WAKING WELLNESS NUTRITION

Tina Foster, RHN Registered Holistic Nutritionist

250 748 8774

MineTheHarvest@hotmail.com

Pet Care Debbie Wood Certified Animal Naturopath Carnivore Nutritionist

Support from the inside Monday-Thursday 250-597-7364

In holistic nutrition, a complete approach of mind, body, and spirit is taken for improving your ailments. The state of these all play a part on the way to dis-ease, and so therefore must be considered important on the pathway to wellness. Contact Tina for guidance in achieving your greater health and wellness potential. Enjoy the journey!

Yoga

VITASANA YOGA & WELLNESS CO-OPERATIVE Classes in Mill Bay on Tue, Wed, Thurs Morning/Evening

Yin, Hatha Flow, Restorative, Chair Yoga... CALL FOR MORE INFORMATION:250-217-6255

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