WINE FESTIVAL I SUMMER RECIPES I RIVER CLEAN UP I SCHOOL GUIDE
9 to 5 The Musical Chemainus Theatre chemainustheatrefestival.ca extended to 08/31
1 Group of Seven Art Exhibition 11-3pm gallery@ chemainustheatre.ca +AUG 8/15/22/29
1 CSAG Community Arts Caravan @Music In The Park 6:30-8pm Cobble Hill Commons FREE +AUG 8/15/22/29
3 Art Opening for Seeing Visions by the Visions Groups Artists 1-3pm CVAC Galleries 2687 James St FREE
Art Opening for kimmerT: Journey 1-3pm CVAC Galleries 2687 James St FREE 4 Quaker Meeting for Worship 10:30am email for more info: cvquakers@gmail. com FREE + AUG 11/18/25
4 Lady O & The Omen FREE concert 7pm (50min). Charles Hoey Park ‘39 Days of July’
4 Times They Are A Changing Exhibit 11-3pm Heritage Museum 2851 Church Way www.millbaymalahathistory. com by donation +AUG 11/18/25
6 Bill Johnson and Shades of Blue w/Casey Rider 7pm Waterwheel Park Chemainus cvcas.ca by donation
7 The Shawnigan Players present Shakespeare’s “The Two Gentlemen of Verona” 7:30pm Gem o’ the Isle Farm 2465 Koksilah Rd. $25+family rate/festival pass Tix@Ten Old Books www.shawniganplayers. com +AUG 10
8 Artist Demo: Gelli print art w/Robert Cerins 1-3pm Rainforest Arts, 9781 Willow St Chemainus
8&9 The Shawnigan Players present Shakespeare’s “Love’s Labour’s Lost” 7:30pm Gem o’ the Isle Farm 2465 Koksilah Rd. $25+family rate/festival pass Tix@Ten Old Books
10 Rockabilly Festival 2-5pm Waterwheel Park Chemainus cvcas.ca by donation
10 Artist Talk with kimmerT 1-2pm CVAC Galleries 2687 James St FREE
10&11 Summer in the Valley Arts Fest hosted by Pacific Arts Market 125 vendors, beer garden face painting 12pm Cowichan Exhibition 7380 Trans-Canada Hwy FREE
11 The Shawnigan Players present Shakespeare’s “Love’s Labour’s Lost” 2pm Gem o’ the Isle Farm 2465 Koksilah Rd. $25+family rate/festival pass Tix@Ten Old Books www.shawniganplayers.com
Kirtan Jam w/Loves Triangle 2:30-4pm St Peter’s Quamichan Church Hall, 5800 Church Rd by donation lovestriangle108@gmail.com
12 The Shawnigan Players present Shakespeare’s “The Two Gentlemen of Verona” 7:30pm Gem o’ the Isle Farm 2465 Koksilah Rd. $25+family rate/festival pass Tix@Ten Old Books www.shawniganplayers. com +AUG14/16
12 (+AUG19/26) Reading and discussion group; Final Report of the Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls 1:30-3pm Cowichan Library 2687 James St. FREE
13 Wayne Montgomery and Montgomery County 7pm Waterwheel Park Chemainus cvcas.ca by donation
13 The Shawnigan Players present Shakespeare’s “Love’s Labour’s Lost” 7:30pm Gem o’ the Isle Farm 2465 Koksilah Rd. $25+family rate/festival pass Tix@Ten Old Books www.shawniganplayers.com +AUG 15/17
14 Jack Connolly Live City Square, 8:15pm downtown Duncan Warmland Book & Film Collective discussing two films:The Cowichan Sweater (CBC Gem) &The Story of the Coast Salish Knitters (NFB.ca) 5-7pm zoom link: WarmlandBFC@gmail.com
16 Let’s GO GREEN Cammy Lockwood Rally gelato, tacos and live music w/Tropical Mayhem 6:30pm Duncan City Square
17 Accordion Festival 10-4pm Waterwheel Park Chemainus cvcas.ca by donation
17 Vancouver Island Metis Rendezvous, 10am Cowichan Exhibition, 7380 TransCanada Hwy, Duncan by donation
18 The Shawnigan Players present Shakespeare’s “The Two Gentlemen of Verona” 2pm Gem o’ the Isle Farm 2465 Koksilah Rd. $25+family rate/festival pass Tix@Ten Old Books www.shawniganplayers. com
18 Beverly Corners Show & Shine 9-2pm Cowichan Sportsplex 5847 Chesterfield Ave. cash or food bank donations
20 Dockside Drive 7pm Waterwheel Park Chemainus cvcas.ca by donation
22 The Naden Band of the Royal Canadian Navy 7pm Waterwheel Park Chemainus cvcas.ca by donation
24 Art Jam @Arts on the Avenue Festival 4-8pm, 1st Ave Ladysmith www. artsontheavenue.ca
24 Artist Demo: Margot Page Enamelling on Old Canadian Pennies 1-3pm Rainforest Arts 9781 Willow St Chemainus
24 Bob’s Chemainus Review 2-4:30pm Waterwheel Park Chemainus cvcas.ca by donation
24 Nest box maintenance & data collection 9:30-11:30am Somenos Marsh Open Air Classroom (Somenos Conservation Area)
24&25 Community Appreciation complimentary Paella & Sangría 11-4pm Cherry Point Vineyards 840 Cherry Point Rd FREE
25 Freeing Your Voice, Discovering the Mystery & Magic of your Personal Song Lila Music Nature Centre Duncan www.cariburdett.com Sliding Scale $50-150
25 Arts Market @Arts on the Avenue Festival 10-4pm, 1st Ave Ladysmith www. artsontheavenue.ca
25 Satsang & Lunch in the Garden: kirtan w/Love’s Triangle, sound journey, meditation 10am Sun Lotus Yoga Sanctuary 5070 Culverton Rd $25 RSVP sunlotus@shaw.ca
27 Bijoux du Bayou 7pm Waterwheel Park Chemainus cvcas.ca by donation
27 Invasive removal, riparian restoration site maintenance 9-11am Somenos Dog Park parking lot
August 2024 Issue 189
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
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SPECIAL THANKS TO FOLLOWING VALLEY VOICES
Cari Burdett, Bernice Timmer, Elizabeth Croft, David & Ranji, Georgia Newsome, Patty Abbott, Katia Bannister, Tina Foster, Jessie Paras, Madeline Southern, Marie-Christine leclerc, Ann Baty, Roger Painter, Grant Easterbrook, Alle, Chris Turyk, Louise Pickles, Francesca Reside, Stephanie Farrow, Krystal Aikman, Denise D’Fantis, Christina Hamill, Amy LuckMacGregor, Bernie Dinter, Merv Bowman, Joshua Blades, Penny Lehan, Amelia Breckenridge, Dr. Joanne Welham, David Suzuki, Kristy Landry, Faynixe Chartrand, Shiloh Badman, Debbie Wood, the lovely Georgia Nicols, Nicolette Genier, and the wonderful staff at the Community Farm Store.
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 email with your suggested topic prior to sending your article as space is limited and may not always be available.
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Cover Image: Wanda Kennan, Nitinaht Lake I am a sports photographer from the Ottawa area and came out west to visit friends. I had never seen kiteboarding nore wingers before and I was mesmerized and thrilled by it all! It was actually like watching an amazing dance on water with kiteboarders, wingers and windsurfers!
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It’s a Shakespearian Summer of Love at Gem o’ the Isle Farm!
The Shawnigan Players are back for our 13th season of the Cowichan Valley Shakespeare Festival! Come enjoy our outdoor performances at the enchanting Gem o’ the Isle Farm, where orchards, pastures, and beautiful Koksilah skies frame our retellings of two of Shakespeare’s delightful early romantic comedies.
Love’s Labour’s Lost explores desire, loyalty, patience, and the unstoppable forces of love. In a bid to devote themselves entirely to study, King Ferdinand (Jim Cleough) and his three lords make a pact to swear off all earthly pleasures, especially the society of women. But when the princess of France (Laura Sirmul) arrives with her charming and clever entourage, their resolve is tested! Live music and fun, nostalgic costumes bring a 1960s vibe to director Rob Foell’s version of this timeless story.
In The Two Gentlemen of Verona, a pair of lifelong friends (Senya Pike and Laura Faulkner) discover the intoxication of love and the pitfalls of betrayal.
This madcap romp features romance, jealousy, adventure, deceit, and the sourest-natured dog that lives. Part fairy tale, part sitcom, this playful yet poignant story comes alive with director Alex Gallacher’s signature balance of pathos and lunacy.
The Cowichan Valley Shakespeare Festival has become a summer tradition for many valley folks. Past audience favourites include A Midsummer Night’s Dream, The Tempest, Much Ado about Nothing, and Macbeth. Fans will recognize veteran Players and meet some fresh new stars in this everevolving troupe of dedicated, enthusiastic, communityminded thespians.
Love’s Labour’s Lost runs August 8, 9, 13, 15, and 17 at 7:30pm, with a Sunday matinee at 2:00pm Aug. 11. The Two Gentlemen of Verona runs August 7, 10, 12, 14, and 16 at 7:30pm, and August 18 at 2:00pm. Single tickets are $25, or upgrade to a Festival Pass and see both plays for $40. Family passes (children plus an adult or two, up to 5 people) are $50
/ $80. Tickets are available at Ten Old Books or online at Tickit.ca. Join us for some quirky Elizabethan rom-com and celebrate a Shakespearian “Summer of Love!”
Robert Cerins: A 40-Year Retrospective
of His Art
Forartist Robert Cerins, a period of not seeing led to a profound understanding and new way of believing in the power of the visual arts and the interrelationship between light and sound—between the colours on his canvases and the notes plucked from his bass guitar.
In 2008 he was rendered totally blind for 40 days when the retinas of both his eyes detached. “Not having my sight for 40 days really allowed me to go deeper into my purpose and what I’m here for,” he said. “What I decided after that whole experience, after I got my sight back, was to bring in sound and colour together.”
It’s not easy for him to describe that convergence in a brief interview, but Cerins believes that, like musical notes, there is a key for every colour. “The colour red is C, orange is D, the key of E is yellow, the heart is F (green), all the way up the chakras.”—G is blue, A is purple, and B is pink. Cerins can explain which part of the body—which chakra— each colour is in tune with.
“That was just a gateway for me for understanding why I’m painting in particular colours. Each painting is a
composition of multiple colours, so it has all of these different notes in it.” And, like musical notes, colours in a palette can be combined into chords. So there’s a physical and spiritual connection between his visual art and the music he plays during outdoor jam sessions on the lawn of his Fuller Lake residence. Cerins’ ’40-year retrospective’ will be featured at the Rainforest Arts gallery until September 28. He will conduct two demos during the run: on August 8, he will demonstrate a technique called Gelli Plate Printing; on September 7, how he makes earrings.
Earrings are mini works of art as far as Cerins is concerned. “I get just as much of an endorphin rush off completing a pair of earrings as I do completing a big painting,” he said. Except with earrings, he gets his creative highs just about every day instead of on the longer cycle of wall art. “I realized that to really be successful, I had to make lots and lots of earrings because people’s tastes are different.”
Rainforest Arts is located at 9781 Willow Street. Gallery hours are 11 a.m. to 4 p.m., Tuesday through Saturday. You can contact the gallery at info@ rainforestarts.ca or 250-246-4861. Find out more at RainforestArts.ca.
Robert Cerins with a couple of works in his outdoor Fuller Lake studio.
ROCKABILLY FESTIVAL CHEMAINUS
Zachary is an internationally recognized award-winning actor, musician and writer. Best known for his performances as Buddy Holly, Zach was coined a “dead ringer for dead singers” by the Victoria Times Colonist for his portrayal of the legendary rock ‘n’ roller as well as Hank Williams, Elvis Presley, Carl Perkins, Jerry Lee Lewis and Phil Ochs. In 2018, Zachary won the prestigious “Jeff” Award in Chicago for Outstanding Performance by an Actor in a Leading Role (Musical) for the Buddy Holly Story, a role he’s honed in more than a dozen productions of across Canada and the United States. Other acting highlights include Million Dollar Quartet, Hair, Fire, Urinetown, Assassins, Sweeney Todd, Company and Ring of Fire. “Zachary Stevenson… is the epitome of effortless cool with a gorgeous voice and a starquality stage presence.”
- Mark Robbins, Vancouver Presents Rockabilly Festival featuring Zachary Stevenson, Jay Stevens Band, Hank Angel and the Island Devils Saturday, August 10, 2-5pm Waterwheel Park, Chemainus By donation.
JACK CONNOLLY
LIVE AT CITY SQUARE
Jack grew up playing coffee houses, concert halls, and folk festivals on the West Coast of British Columbia. His unique voice, genuine warmth and passion for songs and songwriting earned him fans across the west, from church basements to big city music clubs to small town fairs. He released his first album in 2001 at the tender age of 15. Three years later, he was named songwriter of the year at the 2004 Vancouver Island Music Awards, and has released 3 more albums. Jack’s reputation as a gifted songwriter and dynamic performer has won him invitations to play venues across the country with some of Canada’s best known performers. including Tom Cochrane, Colin James, Spirit of the West, 54-40, and others. In 2020 Jack began a new career at Adagé studio where he found his heart for teaching and sharing music with people of all ages. He has just completed his first year as the Artistic Director of the Cowichan Folk Guild and Islands Folk Festival, and he’s so happy for the opportunity to play for everybody again. Wine Down Wednesdays, August 14, City Square Stage, 8:15pm downtown Duncan.
WATERWHEEL PARK
BILL JOHNSON AND SHADES OF BLUE
Bill Johnson and Shades of Blue with Casey Rider Tuesday, August 6 7PM
ROCKABILLY FESTIVAL
Featuring Zachary Stevenson Band Jay Stevens Band
Hank Angel and the Island Devils Saturday, August 10 2 - 5PM
WAYNE MONTGOMERY AND MONTGOMERY COUNTY
Bring your own chair All events by donation
The premiere new country band on Vancouver Island. Tuesday, August 13 7PM
ACCORDION FESTIVAL
Accordion enthusiasts come and enjoy a wonderful group of accordionists. Saturday, August 17 10am - 4pm
DOCKSIDE DRIVE
West Coast’s hottest swing and show band. Tuesday, August 20 7PM
THE NADEN BAND OF THE ROYAL CANADIAN NAVY
Under the direction of Lieutenant (Navy) Ben Van Slyke performs big band, brass and woodwind quintets, and rock and contemporary ensembles. Thursday, August 22 7PM
The best Cajun, Zydeco, Tex Mex band north of the 49th. Tuesday, August 27 7PM
Marianna Schmidt
Viewing the work of Canadian artist Marianna Schmidt is like entering the far recesses of another person’s mind. One feels honoured, but not quite at home, and certainly never sure about what might be lurking around the corner. Artistic as a child, she created illustrations while in school. Following World War 2, and the devastating loss of her family, she immigrated to Canada. Ever resilient, her discipline and dedication to her art over five decades resulted in thousands of pieces that are held in art collections worldwide.
Marianna Schmidt was a printmaker, painter and photographer who used many different mediums. At the Vancouver School of Art in the 1960’s she worked in charcoal, ink and printmaking. Her focus on printmaking saw early success, winning awards, and exhibiting her work before graduation. Her printmaking techniques included etching, serigraphy, and lithography. In the 1980’s she shifted her work into a Neo-Expressionist style and completed many emotional and complex mixed media works on paper using acrylics, ink and elements of collage. By the early 1990s, her work had transitioned to a new style that showed flattened
figures and strong use of line for emotional subject matters. Throughout the years and different styles, the emphasis on the human form and human experiences remains a constant.
The work of Marianna Schmidt is complex, multilayered, and intuitive. At times, the subjects appear dark, distraught, shamanic, ghostly. Yet, within these pieces there is also contemplation, a type of knowing, an undertone that is difficult to pinpoint and even harder to put into words. The work of Marianna Schmidt reveals different things, depending on the lens and knowledge base of the viewer, and is open to many kinds of interpretation. Marianna Schmidt remains an enigma, and her work, mysterious, vivid and raw invites contemplation.
The Sinister Gaiety of Marianna Schmidt is showing at the Cowichan Public Art Gallery until August 29th. Gallery hours are 10 AM-4 PM Tuesdays through Saturdays. This collection is on loan, courtesy of the Burnaby Art Gallery.
is a committee member at the Cowichan Public Art Gallery.
Bernice Timmer
My home (detail, 1993
kimmerT: Journey
Annex Gallery, Aug. 1 – 17
kimmerT is a storyteller who uses the fine art of an oil painter to communicate through symbolic & often ambiguous imagery. The results are unique, sometimes playful and always engaging. kimmerT is on site most days to chat with guests and will be working on a painting throughout the show.
Seeing Visions
Main Gallery, Aug. 2 – 17
Twelve Visions artists are in the gallery in August. Enjoy viewing a variety of works by these accomplished artists.
About Us
Two Openings at Once
Saturday August 3, 1 – 3pm
We’re holding openings for both Seeing Visions and kimmerT: Journey at the same time. Enjoy a terrific selection of art, and chat with kimmerT and the Visions artists about their work. Free and everyone welcome.
Artist Talk with kimmerT
Saturday August 10, 1 pm
Be sure to join us on Saturday August 10 at 1 pm for an Artist Talk with kimmerT. Free and everyone welcome.
Annual Closure
August 22 –September 4
The galleries close each August to get a new coat of paint, and some patching and sanding to smooth out dents earned during 12 months and 30 shows. The galleries reopen September 4 with: Dominique Eustace; and “Lost, Found & Rehabilitated” by Wilma Millette and Dennis Del Torre.
Call for Artists
Studio Tour
September 7
Join us for the Studio Tour on September 7. It’s an opportunity display all your works and engage deeply with prospective purchasers. Register on the CVAC website under Call for Artists. Check the CVAC website for tour information and map.
KIDS & YOUTH PROGRAMS
Art Quest
Art Quest: After school art classes for teens with Chantey Dayal. Classes run 3:45 pm Thursdays, Sept 19 - Nov 28. Skill development in drawing, painting, sculpture and more. Register at reccowichan.ca using code 80500.
Pro D Day Art Camp
Harvest Season: Kids 6 -10 years explore the bounty and transition of the seasons with fun, stories and handson art activities. Register at reccowichan.ca using code 80407
cowichanvalleyartscouncil.ca
CVAC operates two community art galleries, hosting up to 30 shows annually at its art space in the Cowichan Community Centre in Duncan. Founded in 1971, CVAC programs workshops for youth and adults in its studio space. 2687 James Street, Duncan www.cowichanvalleyartscouncil.ca
kimmerT
kimmerT
TEN OLD BOOKS
Always something for everyone Great Selection of Used & New Books • Bestsellers & Award Winners • Classic Novels & Timeless Favourites • BC & Canadian Authors Plus Local Cards • Crafts • Children’s Books • Jewelry • Unique Gift Ideas and More!
102-330 Duncan St 250 -715-1383 Find us inside the historic Duncan Garage
Our Practitioners are certified with many years of wisdom and experience!
DEBBIE SHKURATOFF - REIKI MASTER TEACHER
Teaching Usui Reiki - Level I & II, Advanced & Reiki Master Reiki Therapy/Chakra Balancing/Alignment - Foot Detox
ACUPUNCTURIST - GaChing Kong,M.Ed.,Ac
Moxibustion - Breathwork
Nutritional Planning - Bodywork and Movement
CERTIFIED REFLEXOLOGIST - Francoise Moulin
Aromatherapy - Healing Touch - Art Therapy
CERTIFIED SPINAL FLOW THERAPIST - Dana Schneider
Spinal Flow Technique
Daytime • Evening • Weekends • By Appointment Only #13 - Upper Level • Valleyview Centre • Cobble Hill www.reikiwellness.ca • reiki-wellness@shaw.ca
Sands Funeral Chapel
Cremation & Reception Centre-Duncan by Arbor Memorial
Janice Winfrey Funeral Director
tel: 250-746-5212 • fax:250-746-7034 sandsfuneral.com/duncan email:sandsduncan@arbormemorial.com 187 Trunk Road, Duncan, British Columbia V9L 2P1 250-743-8122
Before getting to the trapline, McCue describes the teenage sons as being aimless and partying. In the bush however, he notices how they are radically different, connected to purpose and skills through which they can contribute. He learns firsthand about the values of living off the land – reciprocity, generosity, not taking too much.
DuncanMcCue, Anishinaabe, member of Chippewa from Georgina Island First Nation, is a successful journalist – the first Indigenous person to host a national programme for CBC. This memoir tells the story of five formative months in his youth as he struggled to find his place between two cultures.
Growing up with an Indigenous father and white mother and spending much of his childhood in urban centres, McCue found that he did not fit into either world. He didn’t have the skills to be on the land, and attending a private school he did not fit in with the rich lifestyle of his peers.
When he was seventeen, his father arranged for him to spend five months in the bush with a Cree uuchimaau, master hunter and trapper, Robbie Matthew Sr., and his sons. Living in a one room cabin on the land around James Bay, they relied on what they fished and hunted to supplement the scant supplies they were able to fly in with.
McCue interweaves historical and demographic information throughout. He describes the devastating impact of the James Bay hydroelectricity project on the Cree communities in the area.
As he gradually learns how to shoot and trap and sees his capabilities growing, McCue feels a connection with the beauty and spirit of Eeyou Istchee, the people’s land. At the end of the book, he says he now uses the ideas of patience and respect that he learned in the bush to allow the stories to come to him – calling himself a hunter of stories.
The Warmland Book & Film Collective – begun in 2018 as a response to the Calls to Action of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada – explores, celebrates, and learns from Indigenous authors and filmmakers. We are welcoming new members – if you enjoy friendly, spirited, and interesting conversation, email us at WarmlandBFC@gmail.com for the zoom link. We next meet online August 14 to discuss the movies The Cowichan Sweater (on CBC Gem) and The Story of the Coast Salish Knitters (on NFB.ca).
Submitted by David & Ranji, on behalf of the WBFC
Pacific Arts Market
Pacific Arts Market is thrilled to bring you the Summer in the Valley Arts Fest! August 10th and 11th at the Cowichan Exhibition Park
Brighten your summer with a colorful splash of local art, crafts, food, beer, and music at the Summer in the Valley Arts Fest! This lively fair features the creative talents of local artisans, tempting food truck treats, and feel-good tunes from local musicians, PLUS a Beer Garden!
Browse paintings, pottery, photography, jewelry, and more from 120+ local artists and crafters. Sway and sing along with live music performances on the main stage. Grab a bite from local food trucks with delicious flavours. Fun for the whole family with prizes, and face painting for kids. Featuring reggae music by Sasquatch
Sound System on August 10th!! An epic 4 hour set with special guests.
August 11th features an Open Mic with 4 local musicians, Jenny Duffy, Mayor McVey, Beverley Mckeen, and Kele Fleming
The Beer Garden is hosted by Red Arrow Brewing. Bring your friends and family to delight in the sights, sounds, and flavors of this vibrant community celebration. The Summer Arts Fest is the perfect summer weekend activity for art lovers, foodies, music fans, and anyone looking to support local talent and businesses.
The Summer in the Valley Arts Fest takes place at the
Cowichan Exhibition Park. Admission is free, making it an accessible event for all. Come join the festivities and leave with handcrafted mementos made right in your own community!
The activities takes place both indoors and outdoors, including Mellor Hall, a Barn
Stall and Mulch Ring. We are going on rain or shine.
Summer in the Valley Arts Fest, August 10, Noon-6pm August 11 11am-5pm Cowichan Exhibition Park 7380 Trans Canada Highway, Duncan. www.pacificartsmarket.ca
Iam an internationally recognized Indigo Seer with 29 years of experience bridging our world with Spirit world. I have had the privilege and honour of being in service at the Victoria Native Seers Fair. I have always been a Seer. My childhood was spent in other worldly venues with Angelic beings, Ancestors, guides and guardians, places where animals articulate. I am an out-of-body travelerremote viewing. It’s not often
intentional, and occasionally, it has been. I find myself observing people and events in places in this country, and in countries on other continents. Sometimes, Spirit visits me, sometimes asking for help, and sometimes just visiting. I am a conscious medium. I don’t try to be. I simply am. And I have learned that I can choose to be available, available to pass on messages from the other side. And out of a desire to be a conduit of love and healing
SOUND
Group events return in September Stay tuned for
for wounded hearts, I have cultivated my gift and share what I see and hear from Spirit.
There are no promises, no guarantees. I have no idea who is coming through until they arrive. I have learned some hard lessons on not to judge or deny what I See
Indigo Channelings
me. You are the one that opens the door. Your desire, your curiosity, your free will is the key in that lock. Mediumship is about love, and love is the foundation of my conversations with Spirit. I benefit from being in the current of Love as it passes through me on Its way to you. Love is the Way.
An Indigo Channeling is an interactive, therapeutic
experience inviting reconciliation with parts of the Self, as much as with Others. It is a three-way conversation between myself, you, and your People. I offer “Conversations with Spirit” in person only. Conscious, embodied channeling is much more engaging. We co-regulate. I read your body language, facial expressions, see the light in your eyes. I am informed by the electromagnetic energy in the field, as are you. No one is a passive participant. The Conversation isn’t happening *to* you, or *for* you. It’s happening *with* you, as it should.
To book a session with Kendra please call 250 710-8177.
Métis Island Rendezvous
Welcome everyone to Vancouver Island Métis Rendezvous 2024, Saturday, August 17 at Cowichan Exhibition Park, Duncan, a day for enjoying and learning about Métis culture and heritage. Visitor entrance is by donation and camping is available Friday and Saturday night.
Opening ceremonies begin at 10 am on Saturday with Jordan Waunch, a Vancouverbased Métis artist and film producer, as MC. Guest speakers and Métis dancers will start the day.
The Rendezvous has a full schedule of entertainment, workshops, and Voyager Games. The Entertainment stage will feature on-going music and dance, 11 am-8
pm beginning with fiddler Calvin Cairns and Métis singer and song writer, Don Freed. Singers and musicians include Ed Peekeekoot, Sandy Scofield, and the Raynie Gervais Band. Bring your fiddle and join the all level fiddling workshop.
The Ivan Fleet Memorial Dancers, featured on Canada’s Got Talent, will share their passion for dance. Compaigni V’ni Dansi will entertain with traditional dance and a jigging workshop for everyone.
The sign-up for free workshops begins at 9 am. These include a forest walk and plant identification, tufting, wood burning, fish scale artwork, moccasin rock painting, and tipi raising and teachings. Be a participant, or an observer.
Guest speaker, Laura Forsythe, will explore the past, present, and future contributions of Métis women to nationhood at 11:30 am in the Market Place Meeting Room.
Participate in the voyageur games, on the trail bannock making, frying pan toss, double ball throw, snowshoe race, the portage carry, and the four
There are stations for archery and hatchet throwing and a Kid’s Zone.
The indoor kitchen opens at 9:30 am Saturday with bannock and tea and service continues to 5 pm. The
serves 11:30 am-6 pm. Métis artisan vendors will open shop in the Market Place Hall at 9:30 am and will be there until 5 pm.
For information contact vimrendezvous@gmail.com
Marlene Heitland, Cowichan Valley Métis Community
Ivan Flett Memorial Dancers
Traditional Chinese Medicine and Summer Foods
InDenise D’Fantis is a Registered Acupuncturist with over 20 years of experience.
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) the season of summer is associated with the element of Fire and correlates with the Heart and Small Intestine.
Summer is considered to be the most “Yang” time of the year, representing outward energy, expansion, activity and movement. It is during the months of summer when the body’s energy is at its peak, according to TCM’s ancient medical books, some such as the “Huang di NeiJing” (“The Yellow Emperor’s Inner Classic”), dating back thousands of years.
Because Traditional Chinese Medicine theory associates the Heart and Small Intestine with the season of summer, it recommends to “protect” our Heart and to be mindful of our digestion during the long, hot days of summer.
Engaging in activities that bring us happiness and joy, along with practicing stress-reducing techniques such as gentle exercise or mindful meditation can help support the Heart, according to TCM theory. Eating smaller and more frequent meals, while avoiding overeating can help to nourish the Small Intestine.
According to TCM, all foods have a certain “temperature”, and during the seasonal hot months it is important to incorporate “cooling” foods into our diet to counteract Summer Heat, which can potentially lead to dehydration and other medical conditions.
Cooling foods, according to TCM, generate body fluids (by nourishing “Yin”), and keep the body cool by clearing heat.
There are many simple cooling foods that are readily available in grocery stores such as
Cantaloupe, Strawberries, Apples and Watermelon. Strawberries and Apples are considered to be of a cool nature, while Cantaloupe and Watermelon have a cold nature. Apples, Strawberries and Cantaloupe are said to quench thirst, and Strawberries promote the production of body fluids and may help a sore or dry throat. In addition, Watermelon can help “summer heat irritability”.
Cucumber, Celery, Bok Choi and Broccoli are all considered to be cooling foods and help to clear heat from the body. Cucumbers and Bok Choi quench thirst, and Cucumbers and Broccoli may help to relieve “summer heat irritability”. Celery, according to TCM theory can strengthen the spleen and stomach, and therefore tonify digestion.
As summer is associated with heat and dryness according to TCM, staying hydrated during the hot and dry months of summer is of prime importance. It is recommended to consume room temperature or even slightly warm water as cold drinks may disrupt digestion by shocking the digestive system.
TCM recommends avoiding excessive consumption of greasy, spicy and fried foods during the months of summer as they may generate “internal heat” and disrupt the body’s natural balance.
Limiting exposure to the sun when it is at its hottest, usually between 2:00 and 4:00 pm, and ensuring adequate hydration are practical summer tips to encourage a healthy response to the external heat environment during the summer months. Incorporating cooling energy foods into the diet is another simple way to counteract some potential adverse effects of Summer Heat according to Traditional Chinese Medicine.
Wilderness Kayaking
Summer Programs From Maple Bay
Ochre Stars and Orcas
There is nothing quite like enjoying a day on the water in Cowichan. The importance of allowing oneself to be immersed in nature (not necessarily in the water) has become even more important as our Blue and Green spaces allow us to reconnect with nature and with ourselves, and to enjoy time with family and close friends. Recently on a kayaking journey through Sansum Narrows, from Cowichan Bay to Maple Bay, we were blessed with an excellent ‘bluebird sky’. As we paddled, I felt an increasing sense of relaxation and an acute awareness of my surroundings enter my Being. Moving through the glassy waters, I noticed the abundance of Ochre Sea Stars, as we paddled along the shoreline at low tide. This keystone species, which is know to be an indicator of the health of the intertidal zone (McFadden, M. (2002), has in the past few years been scarce in the local waterways, due to a sea star wasting disease (Kay et al., 2019). Above the waterline wedged into rocky crevices in bunches of twos and three these bright coloured, purple
Continuing our journey through Sansum Narrows the current approached ‘slack’ allowing us to easily meander our way around Sansum Point, where the water at fast current flows can be a little turbulent, forming small whirlpools and eddies. We arrived at our lunch spot at Octopus point around mid day, where we satisfied our well earnt appetites. This pretty beach also served as a welcome leg and back stretching opportunity and time to simply chillax and watch the pleasure boats pass by. Suddenly, the unmistakeable sound of a blow, alerted me to the presence of an orca whale. There, straight ahead of me, no more than 30 feet away, I could see a tall, black dorsal fin protruding from the water. “Orcas”, I called, alerting my guests to the presence of these majestic creatures. We all stood transfixed on the shoreline waiting and watching for Georgia
or orange starfish slowly feed on mussels, barnacles, snails and limpets and in so doing provide space for other marine creatures (McFadden, M. (2002). Our observation of these fascinating and colourful creatures was one that evoked wonder and delight in us.
a fin to break the surface. Where would it pop up? Our eyes scanned the water, then again erupting from the depths, a second dorsal fin. This time the arching, surfacing motion revealed the white saddle patch before the killer whale dove once again heading deeper into Maple Bay. What a treat, and a perfect experience to seal the memory of our day out. We completed the last leg of our kayaking journey through Sansum Narrows with a sense of wholeness and gratitude for nature. I glowed inwardly, as I had casually made the comment earlier in the day that “the chances of glimpsing Biggs Orca whales in Cowichan waters, and especially through Sansum Narrows, has become increasingly common”.
Cowichan Bay, Mill Bay or Maple Bay provide
excellent launch locations for canoeing, kayaking and Stand Up Paddle boarding. While, journeying through Sansum Narrows takes 5 – 6 hours on a Day trip, between Cowichan Bay and Maple Bay, shorter journeys within the more protected waters of the various Bays, can provide you with relaxation and reconnection that can recharge your energy and joy of life. There are local companies at each of the above locations that can help you get on the water, on a guided tour, with rentals or provide you with instructional courses. We look forward to getting you on the water.
To book your tour please call 250-597-3031.
www.cowichanbaykayaking. com
ANTIOXIDANTS FOR SUN PROTECTION
You know to wear your SPF non-nano particle mineral sunscreen daily in the summer months, and especially when headed outdoors during peak UV times. What can we do from the approach of inside-out protection?
The answerANTIOXIDANTS! The more the better for every reason possible!
How? By consuming and applying to our skin an abundance of these marvelous antioxidation ingredients! This will help protect all your cells in your body (internally), protect from the sun’s harmful rays and cancer, and also help curb skin aging.
Antioxidants- they are found in nature a plenty, so this means eating a mainly plant-based diet and choosing more fresh and raw fruits and vegetables. Excellent choices are all berries, citrus, leafy greens, cruciferous like broccoli, tomatoes, colored bell peppers, apples, papayas, mango, pineapple, and kiwis. Choose organic whenever possible for the health of your body and the planet. Spices, herbs, and teas are also full of protective goodness- such as
turmeric, ginger, cinnamon, chili peppers, garlic, parsley and cilantro, green tea and so much more! Green tea and matcha consumption is proven to be extra protective against all cancers including skin. Vitamin E rich foods are found in fatty foods like nuts, seeds, avocados, olives, and plant oils (unheated and cold-pressed). Heat and cooking will denature and greatly reduce vitamins and antioxidants, so include more raw in your diet, and never heat your fats.
As for topical application, you can also apply steeped green tea to your face, or find a serum containing tea extracts, as this is very cell regenerative and antioxidantrich. Other really beneficial topicals are vitamin C serum daily, Vitamin A (at night), marine/seaweed extracts, rosehip oil or goji berry, pomegranate, or cranberry oils. These oils should be pure and potent. Raspberry oil (hard to find) is actually a natural spf of about 35, and has been shown in studies to be as effective as titanium dioxide in protecting skin from harmful UV rays. These wonderful ingredients help protect skin and also repair existing damage.
With extra sun exposure, along with everyday modern toxin exposure, some supplementation is highly recommended. Antioxidants provide a whole plethora of endless health benefits, they are essential. So fill up through diet and nutraceuticals!
Some to look for include: Vitamin C and bioflavanoids
(including quercetin and rutin), green tea extract, grapeseed extract, reservatrol, astaxanthin, and green foodpowders such as Spirulina, chlorella, wheat and barley grasses, and moringa.
Some sun exposure is beneficial for natural vitamin D production, and to promote all those feel-good brain chemicals. We should however be sun-safe, apply natural sunscreen, and always consume and wear those antioxidants. Extra internal protection every day for lifelong vitality.
Find many of these antioxidant supplements and more at Essential Remedies. 141 Craig Street, downtown Duncan. 15% off every day for seniors!
Good health to you! Tina Foster, RHN Essential Remedies
Protecting Cowichan Lake
and River: A Study into Sunscreen Contamination and a Call to Action
Jessie Paras, BSc Jr. Biologist Aquatic Research & Restoration Centre British Columbia Conservation Foundation www.bccf.com
With long, hot summer days comes lots of sunscreen. Protecting ourselves from the sun is an important part of any summer routine. But not every sunscreen is created equal, and some sunscreens can be harmful to aquatic life.
Research from around the world has shown that certain ingredients in chemical sunscreens can negatively impact many different aquatic species including fish, coral reefs, invertebrates like mussels and insects, dolphins, and even aquatic plants. In 2018, Hawaii became the first place in the world to ban the sale of sunscreens containing oxybenzone and octinoxate, with avobenzone and octocrylene added to the ban in 2023.
Locally, Lake Cowichan sees tens of thousands of visitors every summer, here to enjoy swimming, fishing, camping, and tubing.
With all those people comes lots of sunscreen, and concerns have been raised over the impacts that sunscreen contamination may have on local aquatic species.
In 2019, the BC Conservation Foundation (BCCF) collected water samples from four different sites along Cowichan Lake and River and detected oxybenzone in all four samples. These findings prompted BCCF to partner with Vancouver Island University (VIU) to initiate a 5-year study to investigate sunscreen contamination at beaches around Cowichan Lake and the Cowichan River.
From 2019 to 2022, 398 water samples were collected with the help of dedicated volunteers at popular swim beaches around Lake Cowichan and down the length of the Cowichan River.
VIU’s Applied Environmental Research Laboratory pioneered a novel method to test water samples for four sunscreen ingredients. Testing conducted by
VIU graduate students concluded that the compounds oxybenzone and octinoxate, as well as two other UV filtering chemicals, octisalate, and enzacamene, were present at concentrations of parts per trillion from water samples collected at various beaches and swim sites throughout the summer.
Although the concentrations of sunscreen ingredients detected in Cowichan Lake and River were below the acutely toxic levels for aquatic life, it is best to lessen or eliminate the transport of these ingredients into the environment altogether. There is still limited research on the impact of these chemicals at sub-lethal concentrations.
Since we all aim to ‘Leave No Trace’ when we recreate, it is regrettable that we can detect these potentially harmful ingredients in our waterways at all. That is why in 2022, BCCF started a river-safe sunscreen education and outreach campaign in Lake Cowichan.
In 2023, as part of the outreach project, BCCF conducted a public survey into people’s sunscreen habits and knowledge. Perhaps unsurprisingly, only 51% of people surveyed said they knew about the environmental impacts of chemical sunscreens. Those that had travelled to places like Hawaii, Florida, Mexico, and Australia’s Great Barrier Reef had heard of ‘Reef-safe’ sunscreen and knew of the impacts on coral reefs, but not everyone was aware that those same ingredients are also bad for freshwater species in cooler climates too.
The survey also revealed that only 32% of people knew what to look for in an eco-friendly sunscreen. However, a whopping 93% of people said that they were interested in changing their sunscreen habits to better protect aquatic life in Cowichan Lake and River.
Armed with this knowledge, BCCF is continuing their educational outreach campaign for a third summer to educate swimmers about fish friendly, river safe sunscreen, and promote sun safety.
The main message: Look for non-nano zinc oxide or non-nano titanium dioxide as the only active ingredients in your sunscreen. These sunscreens are river safe and fish friendly. Brands to look for include: All Good, Raw Elements, ThinkSun, Attitude, and Stream2Sea, among others.
Check out the Lake Cowichan Country Grocer or IDA Pharmacies for these river safe sunscreen options. Look for the BCCF outreach team at beaches throughout the summer and visit bccf.com/arrc for more information on the study.
Along with non-nano zinc oxide and non-nano titanium dioxide sunscreens, there are other ways to protect your skin from the sun’s UV rays and be fish friendly. Wear loose, long sleeved clothes, try sun shirts and clothing rated UPF 50+, utilize shaded areas, wear a hat and sunglasses, and avoid the direct sun between 10am and 3pm.
Have a fun, sun safe, and fish friendly summer!
Jessie Paras Sampling Cowichan River
Gordon Bay Park
I’ve been honoured to know the Quw’utsun Sta’lo’ (Cowichan River) for my entire life and to grow up understanding how important it is to all the people and creatures who call the Cowichan Valley home. Years later, now having moved away from the valley for university, I’m touched to have been called home to help organize the Annual Lower Quw’utsun (Cowichan) River Clean Up, an incredible event co-hosted by the Cowichan Watershed Board and Cowichan Tribes.
The Quw’utsun Sta’lo’ is the heart of our valley, a place from which life and community are brought into being. In its waters and along its shores, children and families create lasting memories swimming and playing, nature lovers marvel, and recreational visitors to the river paddle, fish, and more. The Quw’utsun Sta’lo
ITINERARY:
Join the
Community Effort: 14th
Annual Lower Quw’utsun (Cowichan) River Clean Up
WHAT TO BRING:
• Appropriate footwear and a change of clothes
• Sun protection
• Water bottle
• Gloves
• Life jackets, canoes, or anything else you may need if you plan to get into the water!
• 9:30 am - Sign up & Gear up!
• 10 am - Welcome
• 10am-1pm - Garbage Picking
• 1-2:30pm - Volunteer BBQ
Please respect parking signs on site as Grace Church holds their Sunday service beside our meeting place. Thank you. Contact: rivercleanup@ cowichanwatershedboard.ca
is a place of deep cultural significance to the members of Cowichan Tribes, whose lives and ancestors’ lives have been intertwined with this river since time immemorial. The river also supports a rich and diverse ecosystem, including the endangered Vancouver Island ermine, over 200 bird species, and several species of salmon.
With everything the river gives us, it’s our turn to give back. Join
us for the 14th annual Lower Quw’utsun (Cowichan) River Cleanup on Sunday, August 25th!
Guided and co-hosted by Cowichan Tribes, who have maintained reciprocal relationships with the river for generations, we come together to learn and work as a community at the Clean Up. By joining us, you can help make our river a safer and healthier place for creatures and people alike, while also enjoying a free BBQ lunch and neighborhood connections.
Despite ongoing stewardship efforts by many individuals and organizations, the summer’s low water levels call for a collective push to protect the health of the Quw’utsun Sta’lo. Our annual Clean Up removes staggering amounts of garbage from a 15-kilometre stretch of the Cowichan River before Fall rains can carry it downstream. Over the past fourteen years, this event has become an integral part of how our community welcomes the salmon home and contributes to the health of our watershed, as well as our own.
The River Clean Up is a day filled with community, connection, and stewardship. It’s more than just a clean up; it’s a gathering that transcends any single organization, fostering a sense of belonging, and a welcoming atmosphere. We come together, dedicated to being a part of collective efforts to preserve the health of the entire watershed— encompassing people, livelihoods, water, land, fish, and wildlife alike. All are welcome and no experience is necessary! This year, the Clean Up will be on Sunday, August 25th from 9:30am-2:30pm. Volunteers will clean the riverbanks by foot (on-shore and in the water), canoe, and kayak. It’s a fantastic opportunity to meet others who care about the river and contribute to ongoing efforts to support the ecological health of the river.
The Cowichan Watershed Board is a partnership between Cowichan Tribes and the Cowichan Valley Regional District. It exists to provide leadership for sustainable water management and to protect and enhance the environmental quality and quality of life in the Cowichan and Koksilah watersheds and adjoining areas.
Katia Bannister, Past attendee and current Coordinator of the Lower Cowichan River Clean Up
Donna Sassaman Member, Cowichan Valley Monthly Meeting (Quakers)
The word “testimony” describes the way that Friends (Quakers) live their beliefs every day. A testimony can be viewed as committed action arising out of Friends’ faith and lived experience.
The Quaker Testimonies, as generally recognised globally in the 21st century, are as follows:
• S implicity
• P eace
• I ntegrity
• C ommunity
• E quality
• Stewardship / Sustainability
Listed in this way, the Quaker Testimonies make the acronym SPICES. This article concerns two of the SPICES: Simplicity
and Stewardship/Sustainability, which are intrinsically related.
Simplicity
Simple living allows us to focus on the things that matter most to us: our families and friends, the natural world, and our experience of the Divine. Since its founding in 1652 in England, the Society of Friends has been concerned about the excesses and unfairness of human society, and the unsustainable use of natural resources. This is especially true in the 21st century as our planet experiences global warming and environmental degradation.
Our Quaker Meeting collectively practices simplicity by volunteering to serve in all capacities, from “ministers”, to administrators, to First Day School facilitators, to organizers of events, to providers of baked
Testimonies: Simplicity and Stewardship
goods and coffee at Meeting for Worship. We rent our Meeting space (the beautiful St. Ann’s Garden Club Building at Providence Farm) rather than putting our resources into property ownership; this allows our small Meeting to donate to good causes, and it means that the Garden Club Building is being used on a nearly daily basis by programs, organisations, and events.
Individually, Cowichan Valley Quakers live in modest homes, sometimes shared; have gardens and share their extra produce; and some drive electric vehicles. Overall, CVQs try to keep their consumerism to ‘needs’ rather than ‘wants’.
A 1970s bumper sticker illustrates that right reason is the basis for the Simplicity testimony: “Live simply that others may simply live.”
Stewardship
Stewardship speaks of our concern for the Earth’s health and all its life forms.
Quakers recognise that we are stewards – caretakers – not owners, of all we possess.
Why possess more than we can reasonably care for? Focussing on amassing material goods leads us away from life’s purposes, which are to gain understanding of our love for, and connection with, all beings – whether animate or inanimate. Love is the nature of the Universe.
Members and attenders of the Cowichan Valley Monthly Meeting are active in local organisations with concerns for habitat restoration, sustainable use of natural resources, emergency preparedness, and social justice. We sit on boards of directors, participate in environmental clean-up events, write letters to our federal, provincial, and local politicians about issues, and generally, jump in where we can to help as we can.
As with the Simplicity testimony, by living within our means, both individually and communally, we are doing our part to care for our planet’s vulnerable ecosystems.
Cowichan Valley Quakers invite you to join us for worship every Sunday. Please refer to our ad for details and contact information.
SPECIAL WOODSTOCK 25th CELEBRATION
Special Woodstock is 25! Come help us celebrate the success of this ground breaking annual music festival modeled in the spirit of Woodstock 69.
Dance to Vancouver Islands’ favourite professional bands alternating with new talent who have overcome various obstacles in their lives or sit in the shade of the apple orchard ,sipping tea enjoying the quieter Rose Garden Stage. The energy from the performers combined with beautiful Providence Farm make it an event for the whole family that you don’t want to miss.
Over 60 performers on 3 stages. Donations gratefully accepted August 18 10am6pm Gates Open: 9:30 am Providence Farm, 1843 Tzouhalem Road, Duncan,
Pablo Picasso once said, “Every child is an artist; the problem is staying an artist when you grow up.” Summer Art Tent is a magnet for all ages from toddlers and their parents and grandparents, to youth of all ages! It is heartwarming to see the creative energy flowing from the many families that join us as the music weaves its magic through the crowd each week! The South Cowichan Arts Guild provides support and awareness for local artists, as well as arts-related experiences for community members in Shawnigan Lake, Cobble Hill, Mill Bay and beyond. Studies show that the arts promote creativity and encourage neural connections while developing self expression and building healthy self esteem and relationships. CSAG president Jennie Stevens, who is also the coordinator of their IYA program, said the Guild created the IYA arts tent as a way to provide art activities and keep youngsters engaged, and entertained at community events such as Cobble Hill’s Music in the Park series. August 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 - CSAG Community Arts Caravan (at Music In The Park), Thursdays 6:30 - 8pm, Cobble Hill Commons, FREE
SIMPLICITY PEACE INTEGRITY COMMUNITY EQUALITY STEWARDSHIP
Our faith practice is based on these six core testimonies of the Quaker Faith: and also on the inherent belief that there is that of God in everyone. Silent worship allows us to discover the inward stillness where we can best hear the voice of God.
Heeere Crabby!
Madeline Southern Education Coordinator Cowichan Estuary Nature Centre Cowichanestuary.ca
How can you tell its low tide, without being on the beach? Listen for the shrieks, squeals, and shouts of children when they turn over a rock and suddenly tiny crabs are scuttling everywhere.
These tiny crabs are called shore crabs. They belong to the same family as our regular
Dungeness and Rock crabs, just in miniature. Crabs are decapods, meaning they have 10 legs. Two of those legs are modified to have pincers for defense/ eating/ cleaning etc.
Clocking in at a whopping 1–2-inch average, shore crabs prefer to hide under rocks, in dark, damp crevices and under moist seaweed. They also live in eelgrass beds and other fertile, moist areas where there is plenty of food and cover.
When you turn a rock over and find crabs underneath, please GENTLY put that rock back exactly as you found it. The crabs do rely on it for safety, food, and moisture. Even though they run away, they will come back to that rock.
Shore crabs come in a variety of colours, sizes and textures. The two most common shore crabs you will see here are the purple shore crab and the hairy green shore crab. Purple shore crabs are very purple, have very stocky legs and can be quite large (about 2.25 inches). Green shore crabs are similar in size but with more slender, hairy legs and range in colour from grey to dark green to white or even mottled.
Most shore crabs will eat anything they can get their claws on, including dead or dying crabs, clams, barnacles etc. They are the garbage cleaners of the ocean.
Summer Kids Camps
How do you know if a crab is a male or female? Male crabs have a sharp, pointed abdominal flap, while a female will have a broad rounded flap. If you’re lucky, in early spring you might find some gravid females. Their abdominal flap will be full of thousands of tiny black dots. These are eggs and the female will release them when conditions are just right to ensure enough of them survive.
Beach etiquette: Please be gentle with all creatures you find on the beach. The ocean is a hard place to live. If you turn a rock to look underneath, please turn it over and put it back exactly as you found it. The creatures that live under rocks need their homes to survive.
Learn more at the Cowichan Estuary Centre 1845 Cowichan Bay Rd, Cowichan Bay Open Monday- Friday -3pm
Photo Madeline Southern
Learn to Kite or Wing at Nitinat Lake
Last month, we hosted a day of kiteboarding lessons for 11 kids from grade 6 to 11 of the Ditidaht School. We asked them, what do you think makes this place so special and so windy? The kids’ answers were so good. The ocean they said, the mountains… They were totally right!
It just reminded me how special and amazing this lake is. The cold air coming from the ocean, funneled between the mountains, while the hot air rising in the Alberni valley creates our amazing wind. Do you know that this is one of the best and most consistent thermal winds in Canada? Actually in all of our travels in search of wind we have found that Nitinaht Lake has some of the most steady winds we could find! Nitinaht is a gem that not that many people know. In the wind community it was discovered many years ago by windsurfers and is getting more and more popular with kiteboarding and wing foiling. But I still find a lot of people from the Island asking me,
where do you live? When I tell them about Nitinaht Lake they say… “I am not sure I know where this is.”
Off the beaten path, it is an hour drive from Youbou on a logging road or 1.5 hours from Port Alberni. The Port Alberni road was paved almost all of the way last year which is making the trip a lot smoother. Just before arriving into the Ditidaht community you get a glimpse of the lake. On a summer day you will be surprised by 50 to 150 wind enthusiasts having the best day! The wind normally starts around 10 am and blows into the sunset. People travel from all over to come and enjoy these long and steady windy days.
The Ditidaht campground is set up to accommodate people right by the beach where you can launch your kites. They also have a few cabins now for people that would like a little more than sleeping in a tent. Families come and spend a week with friends, sitting by a campfire in the evenings talking about the great crashes they had during the day. During the day, parents are kitesurfing while the kids run around the campground or on their bikes and making new friends. It
a really easy community to join even if traveling alone. Wind enthusiasts are very social and love welcoming people to their sports. We feel very fortunate to be
Sawchuk Photography
Marie-Christine Leclerc Mommy and owner of Elevation Kite and Wing Center
Stephanie Farrow & Krystal AikmanPlentifill Refillery & Sustainable Living Store
Low-Waste Back-to-School
As we gear up for another school year, it’s the perfect time to rethink how we pack lunches for our kids (and ourselves!). By choosing sustainable, low-waste options, we can reduce our environmental footprint and teach our kids the importance of sustainability. At plentiFILL, we’re passionate about making greener choices easier for families. Here are some super easy lowwaste, sustainable lunch ideas featuring a few of our favourite products.
Wrap Up a Greener Year
•Functional Medicine and Nutrition Consultations
•Lab Assessments/Education
•Individualized Lifestyle and Wellness Plans 250-931-0012
One of the easiest swaps is replacing single-use plastic wrap and sandwich bags with reusable alternatives. Silicone bags with pinch-style zipper locks or lined fabric bags with actual zippers are great options. In our household, we use both and have had them for over five years! They’re easy to clean—just rinse and hang between uses, and occasionally toss
the fabric ones in the laundry. Bee’s wax food wraps are also perfect for sandwiches and snacks. Made from cotton coated in beeswax, they come in fun patterns kids will love. Rinse in cold water with soap as needed, and they can last for years. Once they lose their tackiness, they can be refreshed, composted, or used as fire starters!
Hot Eats, Cool Treats
For hot meals, insulated food jars are a game-changer. They keep food warm for hours, making them ideal for soups, stews, or leftovers.
The LunchBot Insulated Food Canister is a favourite—it’s sturdy, leak-proof, and made from stainless steel, so it will last forever. Perfect for chilly days when a warm meal is needed, without a microwave. Also, keeping kids hydrated is super important. Refillable water bottles help cut down on single-use plastics. Stainless steel insulated bottles are tough, easy to clean, and keep drinks at the right temperature for hours. For a fun treat, add berries or fruit juice to your ice cubes to fancy up basic
water and encourage all-day sipping.
Utensils for A+ Lunches
Say no to single-use plastic utensils and send reusable sets instead. My son’s lunch kit always includes a fork, knife, spoon, chopsticks, and straw. These can be assembled from home or you can send sustainable bamboo for a safer option. They’re lightweight, easy to clean, and completely compostable at the end of their life. Add an adorable reusable cloth napkin to wipe up spills, and your small people are ready for whatever the playground/ lunchroom throws their way!
Smart Snacks, Happy Planet
Instead of prepackaged snacks, consider packing a Planet Box Bento Box. These bento boxes are fantastic for packing a variety of homemade and
fresh foods, reducing the need for single-use packaging. The multiple compartments make it easy to portion out fruits, veggies, nuts, and homemade treats, keeping everything sorted and fresh. Bento-style lunches are a fun way to control the ingredients and portions your kids get while offering a wide variety of options (great for picky eaters). Plus, these bento boxes are incredibly durable and easy to maintain. I’ve chatted with people who have used the same Planet Boxes for 10 years—that’s not just sustainably smart, it’s economically smart! By adding any of these low-waste, sustainable lunch ideas to your routine, you can easily reduce daily waste while still packing fun and delicious lunches. Check out plentiFILL.ca for more eco-friendly options and kick off the school year with some greener choices.
EVERY THURSDAY NIGHT 6:30 - 8:00 PM
AUGUST 1 • An&Ben
AUGUST 8 • Neighbourly
AUGUST 15 • Wet Future
AUGUST 25 • The Hoss Mountain
AUGUST 29 • Chris Andres & The Stompin’ Devilles
Pack a picnic, blankets and lawn chairs to enjoy the bands with your neighbours!
Music nights are brought to you by CHES
No entry charged but donations encouraged.
Watercolours with Jennifer
2 - Single Day Workshops
September 14th or 15th 10-4:30pm
Family Friendly Music in Cobble Hill
There are five concerts left at which to experience that true community feeling. At a time when ‘community’ can be hard to find, Music in the Park is the place to go. So bring your picnics, blankets, and lawn chairs, listen to an array of styles and tunes for the summer, enjoy some eats from local vendors, and revel in the warm summer eve’s brought to you by donations of local supporters and yourselves.
Music in the Park (MITP) in Cobble Hill attracted appreciative audiences in July. The August line-up promises to deliver variety and enjoyment for everyone.
August 1st - From private gigs to Farmers’ Markets to weddings, the duo of An&Ben will serenade you with their interwoven harmonies of timeless songs.
Cowichan Valley Auto Detailing
Brian Shkuratoff Owner
250 743-1150 shop
250 709-1990 cell/text
3061 Renfrew Rd, Shawnigan Lake cowichanvalleyautodetailing@gmail.com
August 8th - Neighbourly (formerly Speakeasy) brings layers of psych pop/rock and funk to the stage. Each member of the four piece group is a song-writer, captivating audiences with playful and laid-back tones. You might feel like dancing.
August 22nd –The Hoss Mountain Stringband is a high energy bluegrass band influenced by old-time and swing.
August 29th – Chris Andres & The Stompin’ Devilles will bring you original country and outlaw tunes to close out our final concert. This popular band has played the Duncan Showroom and 39 Days in July.
Young families will enjoy the extra activities. Returning to our event this year is Mill Bay Baptist Fellowship who have brought extra fun with face-painting and more.
Cowichan South Arts Guild (CSAG) with their Inspire arts and crafts tent for children engages the creativity of young children.
Free off-street parking is available at the Cobble Hill Hall grounds, thanks to the Shawnigan Cobble Hill Farmers’ Institute. For information on volunteering at MITP, visit our group Facebook page or contact cobblehillevents@gmail. com .
Tell your friends and neighbours to meet you at Music in the Park on Thursdays between 6:30 to 8:00 p.m., for the ‘biggest backyard party’ in the valley.
Ann Baty www.cowichanvalleyautodetailing.ca
August 15th - Wet Future pushes new boundaries as an alternative rock band with a lively stage presence. Fans of many genres will love their Vancouver Island blues sound.
Wet Future
Roger Painter President, Cobble Hill Fair
South Cowichan is a unique part of Vancouver Island. We have a rich agricultural base and are part of the second oldest community on Vancouver Island; the Cowichan Valley. With a strong background in farming, which is still our mainstay, our community is home to many people working here and in Victoria our neighbor to the south. This is the best place to raise a family and enjoy the good life a rural culture has to offer.
Our Fair is a unique reflection of what makes our communities special. The Fair is a reflection of an important aspect of our community: “Involvement.” We are a community that prides itself on the many volunteers that help in so many ways across the South Cowichan region.
President’s Message
115th Cobble Hill Fair
Many of our volunteers are now coming from the younger ranks and we are please to see them take part in our Fair. The Fair Committee is a dedicated group of knowledgeable people who review and prepare a better version of the Fair each year. As their Chair, I’m proud to work with them. We want to give the community members
an opportunity to share their skills, knowledge and talents through exhibits for Arts, Gardening, Domestic Sciences, Produce, Poetry, Wine, Photography to Hobbies and Crafts. All leading to a day of good entertainment and fellowship. We also have the support of many corporate, business and professional sponsors.
Saturday, August 26th
7:30 a.m. - 5:00 p.m.
Without their backing our Fair would not be what it is. We hope you will support them where possible. They not only bolster our Fair but provide local jobs and build our local economy. We hope to see you at our annual 115th celebration on Saturday, August 24th. Come and help us celebrate the best of what our community has to offer. Say Hi to your neighbors and friends while you see what makes South Cowichan such a special place to live. And if you want to volunteer, just give us a call or contact our secretary at schfias.secretary@gmail.com We’d be happy to put you to work. I look forward to seeing you at the Fair!
MARGOT PAGE ART DEMO CHEMAINUS
Visit Rainforest Arts on Saturday, August 24th for a captivating art demo where popular local artist Margot Page will demonstrate the intricate art of enameling on Canadian pennies. Witness as ordinary coins are transformed into miniature canvases of
vibrant colors and wearable art. Margot will show the process which she uses to take the pennies through the steps of underfiring and colouring with powdered enamel glazes and then adding tiny, stencilled images of hearts, ravens, bears, and hummingbirds. Drop by anytime between 1-3pm to view this unique demonstration.
Margot Page, Enamelling on Old Canadian Pennies 1-3pm, Saturday, August 24th Rainforest Arts, 9781 Willow Street, Chemainus
Arts on the Avenue
Arts on the Avenue is celebrating its 26th year as one of the top juried arts festivals on Vancouver Island! Proven to be a very popular summer attraction in Ladysmith, this two-day iconic event brings artists, local businesses, residents, and tourists together.
The art experience starts with Art Jam. A fun-filled event for families, it will feature interactive art stations where visitors can experience and try their hand at different art activities with the guidance of artists and community groups. Art Jam will take place on Saturday, August 24, from 4 PM - 8 PM and will include a paint competition, kids art
area, and live music.
Then early Sunday morning, artists gather with coffee in one hand and original art in the other, ready for you. The arts market, an outdoor juried original art show and sale, offers art demonstrations from some of the top artists in our region along with hands-on activities for all ages. Our featured artist this year is Harold Allanson from Crofton. Known for his bold realism, characterized by strong compositions, vibrant colors and masterful use of light - his work is a departure from traditional conventions of watercolor painting. A representation of his life experiences , his work draws from the rugged beauty of British Columbia’s West Coast, the vast ranch lands of the interior and the countless miles traversed during his 35 year career as a long-haul trucker. The arts market takes place on Sunday, August 25, from 10 AM to 4 PM.
Visit Harold along with over 60 artists from the Island and Gulf Islands. Visitors will get to view and shop original paintings,
jewelry, glass, pottery, fabric art, Indigenous-made art, leather work, metal and more. The big day, which has welcomed over 8,000 attendees in past years,is back with returning favorites and new artists.
The festival takes place on 1st Avenue in Ladysmith from Warren St. to Buller St. More information on artists, vendors and musician line ups can be found on our website www.artsontheavenue.ca
Francesca Reside, Ladysmith Arts
DELICIOUS food THAT NOURISHES & INSPIRES
Our delicious smoothies are made from whole foods, Naturally sweetened, and balanced with some plant based coconut or hemp milk
23 Kenneth Street, Downtown Duncan
Smoky Mango Balsamic Glazed Salmon
Courtesy Grant Easterbrook, The Olive Station
Dressing Ingredients
2 salmon fillets (approx. 5 oz each)
2 teaspoons Olive Wood Smoked Infused Olive Oil
4 cloves of garlic
3 Tablespoons Alfoos Mango White Balsamic Vinegar
1 teaspoon honey
2 teaspoons Dijon mustard
1 teaspoon Chef Bobs Mango Chipotle Rub (Available at The Olive Station)
Chopped fresh parsley (for garnishing)
Directions
Preheat oven to 400 degrees F. Line a baking sheet with aluminum foil, then coat with non-stick cooking spray. Can also be done on the BBQ.
Mince the garlic cloves and chop the parsley. In a small skillet, heat the olive wood smoked olive oil over medium heat. Add the garlic and cook until fragrant and beginning to brown, about 2 minutes, watching carefully so that it does not burn. Add the mango balsamic vinegar, honey, mustard and Mango Chipotle Rub to the pan. Whisk and simmer until the mixture thickens, about 4 minutes. Place the salmon skin-side down on the prepared baking sheet. Brush liberally with the glaze, reserving the excess. Bake for 5 minutes, then brush again with the glaze, then bake 7 to 10 additional minutes, until the fish flakes easily with a fork and is cooked through. Sprinkle with chopped parsley.
Summer Tea Mocktails with Westholme
AsAlle, Westholme Tea Company Communications + Marketing
we make our way through the vibrant days of summer, we reflect on the necessities that make this time of year so fulfilling, rejuvenating and relaxing. Collectively we have created and discovered the tea mocktail; with all of the antioxidants and stress reducing health benefits that herbal blends and camellia sinensis (the tea plant) yield.
If you are looking to supplement your usual alcoholic beverage, look no further than this recipe list of refreshingly delicious Tea Mock-tails!
Iced Crimson Sans-Gria
Directions
1 lemon, sliced 1/4” thick
1 orange, sliced 1/4” thick
1 lime, sliced 1/4” thick
2 apples cored and chopped
3 cups of brewed Westholme Crimson 1 bottle of sparkling apple cider or sparkling water
Prepare hot tea in your preferred way. Allow to cool to and then refrigerate. Slice then layer in the orange, lemon, lime and apple slices in the bottom of your vessel. Pour in the steeped and chilled Crimson herbal tisane and gently stir until well mixed. Cover and chill for at least 4 hours, or overnight. When ready to serve, add the sparkling apple cider or water to your vessel and gently stir.
Vancouver Island Iced Tea
Directions 1/4 cup Westholme Black Tea of your choosing 6 cups of filtered water 1/4 cup of raw honey
1 lemon
Combine loose tea leaves and water in a pot. Heat to below boiling then remove from heat to let cool. Stir in the honey once the temperature has dropped below 60°Cthis preserves the beneficial qualities of the honey. Strain the tea leaves. Refrigerate and serve chilled.
Enjoy!
Earl Grey Martini
Directions Non alcoholic Gin
Lavender Simple Syrup
A bold cup of Classic Earl Grey tea Orange Bitters
Prepare a cup of Classic Earl. We recommend brewing a
bolder cup by allowing to steep up to 5 minutes. Place in the fridge to chill. Add all ingredients into a shaker with ice and shake for 6-10 seconds. Strain into a martini glass, garnish with a lemon peel.
(Optional Ideas)
You can add a hint of honey for a little extra sweetness. Make ice cubes from steeped tea to preserve the strength of your chilled cup! Serve over ice and enjoy!
LOCAL WINEMAKER’S PICKS
CHERRY POINT
ESTATE WINES
2022 Ortega
This wine not only displays the brilliant stone fruit characteristics and fresh acidity of Ortega, but is backed by 12% Siegerrebe, fermented on skins to build a slightly tannic stage upon which the entire profile can perform.
DIVINO ESTATE WINERY
Trebbiano Trebbiano boasts a fruit-forward profile with a hint of citrus on the finish; it’s complex yet delicate. It pairs wonderfully with fruits and soft cheeses like a joyful dance on your palate. In Canada, Trebbiano remains exclusive to two vineyards that cultivate this grape, both of which were planted by JBusnardo.
BLUE GROUSE ESTATE WINERY
2022 Rosé
100% Gamay Noir
This wine has vibrant notes citrus, luscious pomegranate, and delicate white flowers. It is the perfect companion for a strawberry summer salad with goat cheese or a grilled chicken dish. A bright vibrant rose with notes of thimble berry, blood orange and raspberry.
EMANDARE VINEYARD
2022
Pinot Noir
Juicy red cherry and cranberry, violets, wild mushroom, subtle apple and dusty minerality add a depth of texture to this terroir driven wine. Pairs perfect with mushroom risotto, duck confit, pork belly, soft creamy cheeses, cured meats and root vegetables. Or, your favourite summertime bbq burger!
OF THE FESTIVAL
UNSWORTH VINEYARDS
2022 Rosé
If you love dry rosé and food, this Vancouver Island pink is the solution to all your needs. The nose is a vibrant blend of cherries and rhubarb. It gets just enough lees contact (three months) to add a layer of complexity and leave a dusting of texture. “Delicious and mostly unequalled worldwide, this kind of wine will turn heads everywhere in the wine world.” - Anthony Gismondi
ROCKY CREEK WINERY
Cab-Foch N/V
90 Pts - JS, Silver Medal winner All Canadian Wine Championships It’s our labour of love to to plant an unknown grape, make a premium full bodied red, and wait for 15 years to release this. It’s our Blattner crosses that has a Cabernet Franc character with black currants, roasted peppers and plum notes. The tannins are firm. Savour this one alone or enjoy it with wild meats, grilled vegetables or aged cheddar.
ALDERLEA VINEYARDS
2023
Lizzante
Inspired by Julie’s sister, Liz, this light sparkling blend of Valerie and Pinot Gris has bright aromas of apple and pear, with stone fruit on the palate, and a crisp, clean finish.
COBBLE HILL WINERY
2022 Kismet
With a brilliant, star-bright clarity and a pale straw color with hints of green chartreuse at the edges, Kismet captivates at first glance. The nose reveals tightly packed aromas of lime zest, citrus blossom, quince, and a touch of white peach, showcasing the mix of grapes, including vibrant Albariño, Sauvignon Blanc, Viognier, and Bacchus varietals. Bone dry and mediumlight bodied, this wine has minerality for days, reflecting the cold climate, rocky soils laced with oyster shells, and nearby ocean mist.
Cowichan Wnemakers the Unsung Heroes of the Cowichan Valley Wine Festival, August 1-31
ALDERLEA VINEYARDS
Northern Italy to BC by Joe in the late ‘60s. Both Divino vineyards have enjoyed over 25 years of Joe’s creative growing.
CHERRY POINT ESTATE
Born and raised on Vancouver Island, Zac Brown found his way back after a successful global career in the health and safety profession. His winemaking career began in Czechia and Australia in the early ‘90s, and later took shape when he became a garagiste winemaker in Montreal and then East Vancouver. For years, he has studied the science of enology, and he has been an active teacher and mentor to other winemakers. Zac is currently involved in research on the production of hybrid red wines, biogenic amine-free wines and enhanced aromatic white wine production.
DIVINO ESTATE WINERY
Giuseppe Busnardo is Divino’s grapegrower to winemaker and everything in-between, around, above and below. In his words, “There are only two types of wine. The ones you like and the ones you don’t like.”
Joe’s Trebbiano is an easy festival favourite as there are only two vineyards in Canada that grow the grape and two wineries that make the wineDivino’s first location in Oliver and second location in Cobble Hill. Trebbiano and Manzoni cuttings were imported from
WINES Liam Kidner was born and raised in the Okanagan Valley alongside the flourishing wine region. He first began working in a tasting room in Okanagan Falls as soon as he was legally able, providing wine samples to clients and running tours around the property. While traveling, he found his footings in a cellar in Mudgee, Australia, and decided that these were the surroundings he preferred. After harvesthopping and gaining wine making experience in eight wine valleys over four continents, he came to the Cowichan Valley by chance and immediately fell in love with the area, embracing the cold climate style and the natural beauty of Vancouver Island.
BLUE GROUSE ESTATE WINERY
Embarking on a vivid journey through the heart of viticulture and enology, winemaker Stacy Hornemann joined Blue Grouse Estate Winery in May 2024, bringing a blend of passion, precision and innovation, following her most recent position at Stonestreet Estate Vineyards in Sonoma County, California. In 2020, Stacy made a pivotal move to Jackson Family Wines to support Legacy Wines, Matanzas Creek, Windracer and Capensis, before moving into a long-term role as facility winemaker at Stonestreet Estate Vineyards. This marked the beginning of a defining era. Here, Stacy’s expertise contributed to the production of high-scoring, ultra-premium chardonnay and cabernet sauvignon. Stacy’s vision and expertise propels Blue Grouse towards unparalleled success, merging traditional enological practices with innovative techniques to produce
COWICHAN VALLEY WINE
wines of exceptional quality and character.
COBBLE HILL WINERY
With a career spanning over two decades and 27 vintages, Dylan Sheldon’s adeptness in viticulture management, wine chemistry, and sensory evaluation has earned him a reputation for producing complex, wellbalanced wines. His passion for viniculture propelled him across continents—from the vineyards of Australia and New Zealand to the historic wine regions of France—gaining expertise in both traditional and modern winemaking techniques. In 2003, Dylan formed his own label in Monterey, California. In 2005, he moved north and settled in West Sonoma County where he became a consulting winemaker for numerous wineries while also managing vineyard development in Northern California’s prestigious regions. In 2023, he left California to join Cobble Hill Winery.
ROCKY CREEK WINERY
When Mark Holford moved to the Island to work in another industry, he recognized Cowichan as an up-and-coming wine region. Winemaking was in his blood since working as child with his grandfather and father making wines. As a chemical engineer, he loves the science of it. He saw an opportunity to try something new and start his dream winery in 2005, so took a chance. Mark is so passionate about the winery and making wines his way from Rocky Creek’s vineyards that he waited 12 years to release his premium line because he wanted to wait until the vineyard had fully developed. Every year is a great year, as making wines will challenge you to put forth the best that mother nature gives at harvest. Says Mark, “Winemaking is a fascinating blend of art and science and
allows me to create something special and is a truly rewarding profession.”
UNSWORTH VINEYARDS
In June 2012, winemaker
Dan Wright spent a month exploring Victoria and the Cowichan Valley. He fell in love with Vancouver Island but wasn’t sure when he would get the chance to return, until 2015, when Dan decided to set out on a road trip across Canada. Unsworth presented itself and he jumped at the chance to make the move. Dan has an honours BSc in Biochemistry from University of Guelph and a post-graduate certificate in grape and wine technology from Brock University’s Cool Climate Oenology & Viticulture Institute. He has worked a number of winemaking vintages in a wide variety of cool climate wine growing regions, including the Niagara Peninsula of Ontario, Orange of Australia, Marlborough, New Zealand, and the Willamette Valley of Oregon.
ISLAND WINE FOR ISLAND PEOPLE
EMANDARE VINEYARDS
Guided by a passion for discovering the beauty of what nature has to offer, Mike Nierychlo crafts honest, small batch wines utilizing old-world, low intervention wine making techniques. You will often hear him say that his roll is to steward the grapes into wine, or wine is grown not made, or I don’t make natural wine but I happen to make wine naturally. Experience Emandare is your opportunity to enjoy a private tour and tasting with Mike as he shares their story while you stroll through the vineyard and land in their private tasting space to sip on the Estate wines of Emandare in proper glassware for each wine paired with locally produced cheese and charcuterie.
QUATTRO BAMBINI PIZZERIA
True Neapolitan Pizzeria
Full Menu Offering
Polpette Panino
Anti Pasti Insalata
Feature Pasta
Tiramisu & Gelato
Beer, Wine & Cocktails
DINE WITH US or ORDER ONLINE! quattrobambini.com
Open 7 Days a Week
(250) 929-4655
14-1400 Cowichan Bay Rd, Cobble Hill (Valleyview Centre)
Quattro Bambini True Neapolitan Pizzeria
Pizzeria Prima Strada Cobble Hill is excited to announce the sale to original member of the Prima Strada team Aiscia McNutt! “Aiscia is as passionate for Neapolitan pizza as we are! She’s excited to continue the tradition of Neapolitan pizza and retain the Verace Pizza Napoletana designation. The pizzeria will be open for business but you won’t see the new name right away. Look for the new signs and more in the coming weeks. Congratulations to Aiscia and a warm welcome to Quattro Bambini Pizzeria!” - Cristen & Geoffrey
Associazione Verace Pizza Napoletana In 1984 Antonio Pace and Lello Surace reunited the most important and famous pizzamaker of the time to write down the fundamental rules in order to recognize and differentiate the True Neapolitan Pizza from the other type of pizza, giving it the maximum dignity. Since then, the International Regulation has been the heart of the Associazione Verace Pizza Napoletana, which protect the tradition of this old recipe and spead its secrets, defending its uniqueness and peculiarity. Dine in or order online. New Summer menu launched! Enjoy true Neapolitan pizza and an expanded menu! 1400 Cowichan Bay Road Valleyview Centre (Upper) www.quattrobambini.com
Dinner in The Vines with Barnes and Maracle
Barnes and Maracle and Enrico Winery invite you to come eat and drink in the vines and celebrate with a special winemaker’s dinner during the Cowichan Wine Festival. Here’s a peek at the menu!
Bouche - Gazpacho Shooter
To Start -Tunisian Cured Fish Salad
Main Event - Pan Roasted Chicken with Garden Tomato Sauce & Arugula Pesto Roasted Artichokes, Potatoes in a Roasted Tomato
Vinaigrette with Parmesan Cream Sauce
Baby Garden Vegetable and Labneh Chilled Salad
Roasted Carrots with Pomegranate Citrus Sauce
Dessert Rosewater Malabi
Custard with Wild Berry Syrup
Sunday August 11th 5:30pm start Enrico Winery 3280 Telegraph Rd, Mill Bay $150 with wine pairings
Contact Sarah Barnes to make reservations email barnesandmaracle@gmail.com or call 250-710-1058.
Sustainable Winegrowing British Columbia
Firstconceptualized in 2011, Sustainable Winegrowing British Columbia (SWBC) launched in late 2020. Although early adoption leaves something to be desired, the noble cause and certification process has been completed by several leading BC winegrowers. The tenants of our local sustainability certification are tailored to BC’s unique needs, and include an auditing process tracking, electricity consumption, pest management monitoring, waste tracking, and nutrient management. The mission of SWBC states, “BC winery and vineyard operators want to practice good land stewardship, offer safe and fulfilling employment, and be respectful neighbours. We want to pass a meaningful legacy to future generations while being economically viable today.” Until recently, winegrowers who completed the certification process were exclusively located in the Okanagan. In May of 2024 the first vineyards
outside of the Okanagan Valley received certification. In an effort led by Felix Egerer, four Cowichan Valley vineyards received certification. Bohemia Vineyard Isle De and Cobre Vineyard, which are both growers for Unsworth Vineyards, plus Unsworth’s two owned vineyards got the rubber stamp of Certified Sustainable. Since then, a small vineyard in Sicamous has achieved SWBC certification, and several forward thinking vineyards outside of the Okanagan are in the process. It is encouraging to see winegrowers eager to prove commitment to sustainable practices through an audited and official governing body, showing consumers authenticity and legitimacy with claims of sensible farming practices. As BC, and specifically the Cowichan Valley, continue our ascendance amongst the world’s highly regarded wine regions, leadership in all manner of business practices will prove paramount. SWBC highlights that sustainability is a journey, not a destination, and as such the certification requires
continual improvement and refinement of practices. The winegrowing community of BC and the world beyond share unique challenges with our chosen crop and the sharing of knowledge
through governing bodies like Sustainable Winegrowing British Columbia are the backbone of our growth.
Chris Turyk DipWSET Director of Marketing & Sales Unsworth Vineyards
Unsworth Vineyard, Pinot Gris. Photo Sean Fenzl
ROCKY CREEK WINERY
Our Tasting Room is boutique and our “hidden gem”. We have an interactive experience with one of our blends this year as we always have done something different in the guided tasting. We have a selection of 4 wines where you can taste the estate grown vineyard and also blends from a variety of grapes from 13 varietals in one wine and 5 in the other. People leave here sometimes learning more about wines than when they arrived. I treat you as my guest and how I’d like to have a tasting when I venture out. The Cowichan Wine Festival has been with us since we started and this year is our 19th year. We love the
month long for taking the time to enjoy the Cowichan Valley Wine region. Here at Rocky Creek we have Life Size Jenga, Deep Discounts and Winemaker’s Famous Cooking Demos. The cooking demos are only Sundays at 2 pm and it’s suggested that you book ahead to get a table. Send via email or phone. We also accept walkins under 6 people otherwise, also book ahead if you can. 1854 Myhrest Road, Cowichan Bay www.rockycreekwinery.ca
DIVINO VINEYARDS
FEATURE TASTING ROOMS
WINE FESTIVAL SHOWCASE
Three new vintages of Trebbiano, Pinot Noir and Pinot Grigio!
We continue to celebrate over 50 years of the grape and owner Joseph Busnardo’s 3 x 30th. Joseph is credited to being the first person to import and plant vinifera grape cuttings in BC; changing the future of the grape and wine industry. Come celebrate at Divino Estate Winery Ltd.
Much of the 40-acre property at Busnardo Vineyard is planted to vinifera varietals that have been traditional to Divino Estate Winery for more than 40 years. The Cobble Hill vineyard site was established in 1996, but was built from years of experience in the Okanagan Valley. The winery is the best place to find the full selection of wines, and some special old vintages. Seasonal specials, case-lot and bulk pricing are available at the winery shop. Winery tasting room.
1500 Freeman Rd, Cobble Hill 250 743 2311
1500 Freeman Rd, Cobble Hill www,divinowine. ca
our home in the Cowichan Valley and it is our privilege to work alongside nature to capture a glimpse of this place every bottle. Terroir driven wines steward from grapes to bottle naturally with low intervention wine making techniques. Meet our winemaker Mike as he hosts our wine shop this summer and shares his passion for discovering the place and the vintage captured in his wines.
Drop-In Fridays and Saturdays 12-4 pm Taste at the bar or bring your own picnic to enjoy with a wine flight in our courtyard. or book online our Experience Emandare. An intimate and educational
tasting with local cheese and charcuterie. *Request any time outside of our drop-in hours. 6798 Norcross Rd. Duncan www.emandarevineyard.com
UNSWORTH VINEYARDS
Founded and continuously operated by the Turyk family since 2009, Unsworth Vineyards are specialists in Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. Committed to making wines
Unsworth Vineyards
Winemaker, Mike Nierychlo Emandare Vineyards
Divino Vineyards
Rocky Creek Winery
FOR SIPS & SAMPLES
that reflect the exceptional soil and growing conditions of the Cowichan Valley, winemaker Dan Wright and his team currently farm 10 acres of grape varieties at Unsworth Vineyards. Currently Unsworth is planting a new vineyard in a short drive West of Duncan. Four of the vineyards Unsworth farms, including the two owned vineyards, are the only vineyards in the Cowichan Valley to be Certified Sustainable by Sustainable Winegrowing British Columbia (SWBC). Recently, a new project is underway to expand our winery and construct two new purpose built barrel cellars to further heighten the quality of Cowichan Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and other wines throughout the portfolio. www.unsworthvineyards.com
ALDERLEA VINEYARDS
In 2017, Zac and Julie took over Alderlea Vineyards, one of Vancouver Island’s oldest and most respected wineries, fulfilling a longheld dream of owning and operating a vineyard and winery. Since taking over Alderlea, they have focused on vineyard health, including sustainable farming practices, and creating award-winning wines of quality and character. They offer visitors a unique and personal tasting experience. Open daily by appointment 1751 Stamps Road, Duncan, 250 746-7122 www.alderleavineyards.com
COBBLE HILL WINERY
Cobble Hill Winery’s tasting room is newly renovated, capturing the charm of the rustic cedar building, featuring a granite stone wall and sequoia live-edge
tasting bar. Guests can also relax on our spacious deck enjoying views of the vineyard and lavender fields. Choose from one of three wine flights (curated, white and light or red) each featuring five wines. Visitors are welcome to bring a picnic and we also offer charcuterie boxes to pair with our wines. Tastings are $15/ pp but are waived with a purchase of two or more bottles. Our address is 3500 Telegraph Rd. in Cobble Hill or visit us at www.cobblehillwinery.ca.
The vineyard at CHERRY POINT was established in 1990 when the founders purchased 34 acres on a former mink ranch a few miles south of Cowichan Bay.
The vineyard was planted with grape varieties suited to the island’s soil and climate and soon Cherry Point Estate Wines became one of the first licensed wineries on Vancouver Island. Solar exposure and ocean air circulation are fundamental elements in determining Cherry Point’s terroir. The farm is managed to reflect the character of the land, with the resulting flavors and aromas that give Cherry Point’s wines their uniqueness. The tasting room is open daily from 10am to 5pm and will be featuring 2022 Pinot Blanc and our 2022 Gitano. There is a seasonal bistro with vineyard views. Open for lunch Thursday to Sunday from 11:30 to 2:30 pm. Reservations recommended. 840 Cherry Point Rd, Cobble Hill www. cherrypointestatewines.com
Tricia Huebner, Owner Cobble Hill Winery
Tasting Room, at Alderlea Vineyards
La Terraza Bistro at Cherry Point Estate Wines
Vive La Baguette!
It’suniversally acknowledged that the French know a thing or two about good food and wine. They’ve been making an art of wine for two centuries, and every day the French consume more than 30 million baguettes. There is no definitive history of the baguette, but our favourite theory links the origin of modern French bread to the French revolution. While the monarchy and upper classes feasted on fine loaves, the lack of quality bread among the general population was one of the driving forces of the uprising. In 1793, the post-revolution government made a law stating: “Richness and poverty must both disappear from the government of equality. It will no longer make a bread of wheat for the rich and a bread of bran for the poor. All bakers will be held, under the penalty of imprisonment, to make only one type of bread: The Bread of Equality.” The shape of the baguette is said to have emerged in the 1920s, when a new law made it illegal for anyone to begin work between 10pm and
4am. As this didn’t leave enough time for bakers to prepare larger loaves before the morning rush, the baguette’s long, slim form would bake faster and be ready in time for their customers’ breakfasts.
At True Grain, we make our French Baguettes as they’re made in France, with just five ingredients: White Flour (we use only BC-farmed organic), water, yeast, malt and a touch of sea salt. The bakers shape each baguette by hand and bake it with care, so the outside is robust and crunchy while the inside stays pillowy soft.
A baguette’s mild flavour makes it an ideal accompaniment to a wide variety of food and wine. Imagine yourself in winter, dipping hand-torn chunks of baguette into a beef stew between sips of cabernet sauvignon. Or sitting on a summer patio enjoying a crisp pinot grigio with smoked salmon crostini. For those with a sweet tooth, nothing beats a slice of baguette with chocolate, next to a chilled fruit or dessert wine.
Stop by True Grain to pick up a fresh organic French Baguette (we also make sourdough and multigrain baguettes!) before your next picnic or winery tour. Pair it with locally made cheeses, pâtés, sweet jams or more! We’re happy to be able to bring a slice of France to the beautiful Cowichan Valley. 1735 Cowichan Bay Road, Cowichan Bay waterfront. Open Tuesday - Saturday 8am-5pm www.truegrain.ca
Sophia Jackson
Tree Nut Creamery Truffula
Truffula is a tree nut creamery based in the Cowichan Valley that handcrafts organic, culinary delights that cater to those with dietary restrictions and those who love to eat great food. Our organic, plantbased kitchen values natural foods and processes, creating intentionally nutritious whole foods bursting with flavour. Painstakingly crafted by Holistic Nutritionist and Raw Food Chef, Allison Landin, Truffula offers
versatile, flavourful cultured nut products (vegan cheese) and grain-free crisp breads. Driven to create foods that both nourish your body and please your palate, Allison has mastered her craft, honing her recipes and her processes since 2013.
Outdoor Patio
FRESH MOCKTAILS
• GLOWJITO
• LAVENDER MARGARITA
• MIDNIGHT MARTINI
100% ORGANIC VEGAN & GLUTEN FREE FOODS CAFE
TAKE OUT AVAILABLE!
MENU
• DREAMY MARTINI
• WHISKEY ROSE
• GINGER GLOWJITO
100% Organic, Gluten and Dairy Free Mocktails
3 5380 TRANS-CANADA HWY, DUNCAN 250 597-2595 I GLOWJUICERY.CA
3 5380 TRANS-CANADA HWY, DUNCAN 250 597-2595 I GLOWJUICERY.CA
Whether you’re looking for a bagel or cracker spread, something to add to your charcuterie board, the perfect creamy base to pair with fruit and honey, or a delectable crunch to pair with cheese, Truffula offers versatile, gourmet artisanal products that don’t compromise on flavour or texture – rather, our foods are unbelievably crave-worthy. Available at Chemainus Health Food Store 9738 Willow Street, Chemainus 250 246 9839
pairing suggestions with local wines
White Truffle
White: Cherry Point Gewurztraminer
Red: Unsworth Pinot Noir
Peppercorn
Emandre Vineyard Sauvignon Blanc
Pimentón
Blue Grouse Estate Black Muscat NV
Dill
Deol Chardonnay
Additions: Dried figs, fresh sliced pears, local berries, Viva Cacao dark chocolate, seedy crackers, salted nuts, honey
Xavier and Maria, owners of Cherry Point Estate Wines, consider the Paella a symbol of union, tradition, festivities, and harmony. The Paella is usually prepared for a late Sunday lunch or special holidays. Families get together and plan their Paella days before. The elder, usually grandpa, gives the orders and instructs each participant as to what and where to obtain each of the ingredients. But only he, the Paella Captain, indicates to each person involved exactly how to make the cuts and when to incorporate each element into the Paella. It is almost alchemy, where olive oil, garlic, colourful peppers, and onions begin to blend before chorizo, chicken, pork and, rabbit, if available, blend in, producing a limitless sea of aromas that, in a crescendo enhanced by the consumption of good Rioja wines, eventually begins to take the right consistency before good Valencia rice is added. The night before, a stock has been brewing using cuttings from all vegetables and shells from the shellfish and together with saffron is to be added once the rice is al-dente. By now, the entire house is full of aromas, aromas that fly into the neighborhood. Everybody knows a Paella is in the making and they know they
“Wine is a living organism, wine changes, wine develops, wine is never the same, and each bottle is different. Wine can be paired in many different ways. Wine is temperamental, wine is full of emotions, wine is creative, wine is passion, wine is art…”
Please come, join us in celebrating Cowichan Valley Wine Festival, August 24 & 25 from 11am to 4pm and enjoy our complimentary Paella and Sangría. This is our way to thank our wonderful community for their continuous support. Cherry Point Vineyards, 840 Cherry Point Road, Cobble Hill
cherrypointestatewines.com
Pickles Pantry Pâtés Make Perfect Pairings
The term ‘pâté’ can be used to describe a multitude of classic french charcuterie dishes that are usually prepared in a terrine mould, and can be made up of a combination of ground or emulsified meats and paired with a never ending array of garnishes. Traditionally, if you were making a pâté, it was a way to use up the ‘unwanted’ cuts of meat such as the liver from chicken, pork or duck and transform them into something delicious.
Pâté is best served chilled alongside some fresh baguette, and hopefully, a glass of wine. Luckily for us here in the Cowichan Valley we are spoiled for choices when it comes to wines (and cider, and beer, and spirits) that pair wonderfully with either of the two Pâtés available from Pickles’ Pantry.
Those who are fearful of trying a ‘liver based’ spread need not worry, for these two are full of flavour, well balanced with a smidge (ha!) of butter, sweet slow cooked onions, a delicate red wine and
brandy reduction, and each topped with their own gelée (that’s fancy French for jelly).
Pick up a fresh french baguette, a jar of either the Duck Pate with Cranberry and Port Gelée or my favourite, the Chicken Pate with Burnt Honey and Apple Gelée, a glass of chilled something - and head for your nearest balcony, patio or garden to enjoy.
As for wine pairings, I’m partial to two local delights: Charme de L’il from Unsworth or Quill Rosé Frizzante from Blue Grouse Vineyards. Either one offers a lovely light refreshment for your palette and are a wonderful contrast to the buttery, smooth and rich pâté Hanks Provisions fully stocks everything you need for charcuterie! to pair with for hosting your own wine tasting 5311 Trans Canada Highway (next to Dulux Paint) (250) 597-7727 www.hankscowichan.com
Louise Pickles, Chef and Owner of Hank’s Cowichan and Pickles’ Pantry.
Co -produced with David Coulson Designs
Photo credit Tony Colangelo
Perseverance
“Transcendent Beauty Attained Through Adversity”
“In the crushing, in the pressing, you are making new wine. In the soil I now surrender you are breaking new ground”. – Brooke Fraser, Hillsong United.
AfterBAGUETTES
more than a decade of perseverance to establish our home, build our winery, restore our vineyard, raise our family and put down roots here in the Cowichan Valley, we have learned countless life lessons and the lyrics of the song Ne Wine ring true in our life daily.
Late summer 2013 Robin and I walked through the gate of this little vineyard full of ambition, hopes and dreams. Neither of us had ever been to the Cowichan Valley before. The vineyard is
what brought us here but we had no idea no idea how incredible this place was is and continues to become because of the perseverance of this community.
any and every set of adverse circumstances, the vine will struggle to dig deep roots to establish itself and find all of the resources it needs to not only survive but to thrive. In fact, the harder the struggle and the more adversity it faces, eventually the stronger it becomes. It is
Processing our first harvest of Siegerrebe grapes in 2014 with: (Left to right) Steve Lycopolis, Mike Rathjen, Meghan Allan, Robin and Me.
that calm, patient, confident, unwavering strength that it develops over time through conquering what often seems impossible circumstances that gives the vine the ability to produce fruit that transforms into stunningly delicious wine. Wine that is meant to be shared and bring people together in a transcendent manor. However, the fruit of the vine can only become this through further crushing and pressing and just when those grapes have been through the violent process of fermentation does it finally come to a place of rest where it has time to clarify before it can fully actualize its purpose in being shared with a meal and creating an atmosphere like non-other.
Our time here in the Cowichan Valley has been much like a vine in a vineyard, struggling to establish ourselves, facing adversity in restoring our vineyard, raising our children and creating beauty in this valley that we are so privileged to call home. We have been brought to what has felt like our whit’s end on countless occasions, we have contemplated giving up on countless occasions. We have blead, sweated and cried on countless occasions. Every occasion seemingly harder than the previous. But, facing every occasion by simply putting one foot in front of the other, slowly our stride and strength has begun to increase, our adrenaline has begun to return and our ability to push forward through the violent nature of adversity has not only given us clarity, it gives us rest in the midst of the journey and each stride, big or small.
Great wine doesn’t come from one vine alone, it comes from an
Its been over a decade of pursuit for us here in the Cowichan Valley and we’re not alone. The collective nature long list of people in this community that have been tirelessly establishing this place is something to behold. Its artists, musicians, chefs, farmers, pastors, bakers, cooks, chefs, gardeners, winemakers, foragers coffee roasters, baristas, bar tenders, brewers, servers, builders, caterers, landscapers, artisans, hospitality providers, tour guides, writers, golf pros, groundskeepers and the list goes on and on. It’s an exhaustive list of inspiring people who make the Cowichan Valley one of the most incredible places on the planet. No wonder this place is known as The Warm Land, sure the temperature is nice, but the people of this valley, the people who no matter what it takes, all share a vision of what this place is, continues to be and will continue to become.
As for us, we’re here and we’re not going anywhere. Emandare is our home here in the Cowichan Valley and it is our privilege to
work alongside nature to capture a glimpse of this place in every bottle.
As many of you know, we made up the word Emandare using our initials. What many of you don’t know is that there is an old Latin word, Émendáre. (eemen-dar-ay) It translates into three different languages and means; To amend, repair and to perfect. It also means; To give generously. Lastly it means; To be honest.
No one ever promised us that life would be easy, but we know that life is what we make of it
and there are a countless amount of people here in the Cowichan Valley who are not only making a life for themselves, they are creating something transcendent that is meant to be shared. This summer, next time you are sipping on something special, raise your glass to the Cowichan Valley and to the people here who are making it what it is and what it will continue to become. The Warm Land.
Mike Nierychlo, Sharing my love for people, wine food and all things made passionately.
entire vineyard where each vine is facing adversity collectively in the pursuit of excellence.
Nierychlo Family
What drew you into politics?
SF: I always paid attention to politics, but I never imagined myself as an elected person. I very much enjoyed teaching, and I found ways to be engaged in volunteer work, but it was the provincial government’s decision to grant the permit for the contaminated landfill in Shawnigan Lake that pulled me into politics. I had always thought of government as a provider of public services like education and health care, and a body that was there to protect the public. It was a shock to me that any government would consider putting contaminated waste uphill from a community’s drinking water, and I felt I had no choice but to act to prevent that from happening.
CL: For me, it was the climate crisis. I have a farm, we grow market vegetables, and produce enough eggs to feed 8000 people each year. During the heat dome of 2021 we struggled to keep our animals and plants alive in the 40 degree-plus conditions. I realized that the climate crisis was leading to severe and acute consequences across BC. While we had already implemented many environmental practices on our farm, it felt like a tea-cup to put out a wildfire. I must do all I can to prevent more climate-related catastrophes.
How would you describe the
Passing
the Torch: MLA Sonia Furstenau in Conversation with Cowichan Valley’s Next BC Green Party Candidate, Cammy Lockwood
role of an elected official?
SF: I was first elected to the CVRD in 2014, and on the evening of our first meeting, my (then 9-year-old) son asked me what my new job was. “We’re shaping the future,” I told him. The decisions that elected officials make determine where we put our public funds and resources, and what our future communities will look and feel like. I have always felt that being elected carries a heavy burden - I strive to understand issues deeply, and to focus on shaping a future that people can feel hopeful about. It has also
environment. BC is a resource rich province, yes, but we need to shift our thinking so that officials are not only seeing the dollar signs on those resources, but the true cost of extracting them.
What are the achievements you are most proud of?
been important to me to elevate the voices of people who are often overlooked or underserved by governmentsI truly believe that we should be a province where people can count on their basic needs being met.
CL: I see it as a role of stewardship and service to the people. Elected officials need to advocate for all the people they represent, including the minority communities that have been denied a voice. Far too often we see elected officials too cozy with lobbyists, prioritizing the needs of industry over the needs of people and our
SF: Family is the centre of my life. I am proud of my children and stepchildren, who are kind, generous, compassionate people. As an elected representative, I am proud of many concrete outcomes that I have contributed to over the last decade. As Area Director, I’m most proud of the purchase and protection of Mt. Baldy, the construction of the pavilion in Shawnigan village, walking path infrastructure, and of course, the permit for the contaminated landfill being cancelled by the provincial government. As MLA, I dedicated seven years to being the champion for the Cowichan Valley in the BC Legislature. I put a lot of energy into pushing for infrastructure projects that were so needed in Cowichan: the hospital, the hospice, the new high school, funding for youth services, and funding for the weir. I appreciated the words of Premier Eby at the recent announcement of the funding for the weir, which reflect how I have seen my role : “Sonia has been a very effective advocate for
Cammy Lockwood and Sonia Furstenau Photo Billy Young
Cowichan, and certainly for this project,” Eby added. “I often have the opportunity to speak with Sonia about the issues and local community here, and she is a forceful advocate.”
CL: I am really proud of my farm. Countless books have been written by people who try to start a farm, and end up writing a book instead. I stuck with the farm, built it up with my husband, while raising our three children in the fields. Our biggest accomplishment was wading through grief, and picking up the pieces after we lost my father-in-law, Barry Lockwood. He was our business partner, mentor, father and grandfather. To lead our family and our employees through that time, while facing our own loss, and continue to build on his legacy, is what I am most proud of.
What is your vision for the future of BC?
SF: I studied and taught history, and I often think of the powerful words of Martin Luther King Jr, that the arc of history bends toward justice. We face huge challenges, but if we hold the well-being of people, community, and the natural world as common goals, we can continue to bend that arc in the right way. We know that belonging, generosity, and gratitude are the keys to happiness, and my vision focuses on creating the conditions for people to experience that, to thrive and contribute in meaningful ways to shaping their communities and our collective future.
CL: [Laughs]. Yup - What she said! I envision a future where people and the natural world are at the center of the policy we create, not profits for multinational companies. Is that so much to ask? It seems so simple, yet that is
the world we live in: Profits are prioritized over people. I want to see it flipped.
What inspires you about each other?
SF: I met Cammy and James at their farm in the spring of 2012, when my students were learning about local food systems. I remember standing in their vegetable patch on a cool morning as James explained all the steps to get food from seed to market. It was inspiring to meet young farmers with a vision - one that was recognized when they won the Outstanding Young Farmers award for BC and Yukon. I have been inspired by them ever since, seeing them build community while working to improve local food security, and juggling family, farming, chickens, and puppies! Cammy and James really strive for a future that is healthier, kinder, more fair, and filled with good food, healthy families, and strong communities.
CL: That was the first field trip we ever hosted! Since then, I watched Sonia’s career bloom, and in recent years we have worked together more closely. As our MLA, she advocated for agriculture, and our farm. When she speaks in the legislature, she is filled with passion, compassion and integrity. It is inspiring to witness politics done differently, where honesty is prized over deceit, people over profits, protection of the environment over resource extraction. She asked me to step forward into this role, and the reason I said ‘Yes’ is because I have witnessed how hard she and the BC Greens work to back everything up with research and evidence, always moving forward with honesty and integrity.
CAMMY LOCKWOOD FOR COWICHAN VALLEY
Authorized by Cammy Lockwood, Financial Agent 2505974725
THE FOOTBALL ACADEMY
Our goal is to provide world-class learning and character development through education and soccer to help youth reach their highest potential as athletes, students and citizens.
sjaslfootballacademy.com
WHAT IS AN IB EDUCATION?
The International Baccalaureate (IB) Programme® academically challenges students with the objective of preparing them for success at university.
ENVIRONMENTAL EDUCATION
St. John’s Academy (Grade 4-12) in Shawnigan Lake is nestled between the forests of Baldy Mountain and the waters of Shawnigan Lake. Teachers aim to incorporate environmental learning through inquiry topics, hands-on projects and interdisciplinarylearning. Our full Environmental Education program encompasses many aspects of our school experience.
St John’s Academy Shawnigan Lake provides meaningful academic challenges and student-centered support to help build good citizens of the world. Students are encouraged to push their intellectual boundaries through a comprehensive IB® curriculum that stimulates critical thinking and creativity. Simultaneously, a strong network of mentors and dedicated teachers ensures that each student receives guidance and encouragement. This dual focus on challenge and support fosters resilience, empathy, and integrity, equipping students with the knowledge, character, and skills necessary to thrive as conscientious, compassionate leaders worldwide.
ST. JOHN’S ACADEMY SHAWNIGAN LAKE
Grade 4 -12
International Baccalaureate®
St. John’s Academy Shawnigan Lake is situated on 23 beautiful acres between the shores of Shawnigan Lake and Old Baldy Mountain. This ideal learning location for students in Grades 4-12 provides an inspirational environment for learning for our local (day and international) and boarding (local and international)
students.
We are an International Baccalaureate® (IB) World School currently offering the Middle Years Programme (MYP) and Diploma Programme (DP). This enhances our academic program and recognition as a university preparatory school. For more information on the IB program, please visit: www.ibo.org/benefits/whythe-ib-is-different/
Offering an academically rigorous and transformational
learning program for tomorrow’s leaders in a caring and supportive environment is our primary focus. Our programs develop a sense of adventure and an appreciation of nature and the Arts, enabling our students to make positive contributions to local and global communities through responsible and principled action.
As a small and caring school, we will be home to 140 Canadian local students and 60 boarding students from diverse backgrounds. We also offer a 5-day boarding program for students from the Cowichan Valley, Vancouver Island and the Lower Mainland. These students reside with us during the academic week and return home on the weekends. This opportunity facilitates their in-depth learning during the academic week, while still providing time with family and friends, the best of both worlds.
Our local day students reside from Duncan to Langford with our bussing options. All of our students benefit from our exceptional lunches and an extensive range of CCA’s (Co-Curricular Activities). We have partnered with Pacific FC, a professional football club to start a Football Academy. A football club should be reflective of the community it serves and represent the values of its people both on and off the field. In the case of Pacific FC, named after the mighty Pacific Ocean and
the ascending tech hub of Victoria, one word defines the aspirations of both club and community: “energy”. The feeling is palpable everywhere on Vancouver Island and particularly in the BC Capital which has under gone a seismic shift from sleepy tourist and retirement town, to thriving entrepreneurial haven on top of a long established home for higher education. Players train three mornings a week, executed by a talented, experienced coaching team familiar with Academy experiences and post-secondary pathways. In general, the year begins in the Island Training Centre (ITC), working through small spaces and technical ball work. Midyear, the athletes add a gym program, targeted for Football players. Also mid-year, the athletes train using Futsal. Finally, they move to a blend, adding large field shape-work.
To schedule a tour, please call us at (250) 220-4888. Feel free to email us anytime at: info@stjohnsacademy.ca Please visit our website at: stjohnsacademy.ca
DUNCAN CHRISTIAN SCHOOL
Duncan
Early LearningGrade 12
OSBORNE BAY
Duncan Christian School provides a welcoming environment for children from Early Learning through Grade 12. By integrating faith, family, and community, we aim to be an inclusive school family which strives to support and celebrate every child by offering a diverse and warm-hearted place to learn. All programs integrate a Christian world view. Early learners enjoy a handson school readiness program providing early exploration of theme studies, art, music, gym time, library, numeracy, and pre-reading skills. Full day Kindergarten includes a one day per week outdoor education Sea to Sky program. From Early Learning through Grade 12, we offer a wide
range of curriculum.”. Led by an experienced and committed staff, classes participate in projectbased learning, outdoor education, cross curricular activities, athletics, music, arts and second language programs. Service learning, leadership, outdoor adventure, and Christian Mission opportunities are also essential parts of our comprehensive educational programmes. All of which are examples of how the unique gifts of learning are celebrated. Through participating in a wide range of activities students are challenged to explore their talents and find joy in their unique giftings. We would love to get to know you better. To set up your personalized tour, please call us at 250-746-3654. www.duncanchristianschool.ca
QUEEN MARGARET’S SCHOOL
Duncan Kindergarten –Grade 12
ECE: Preschool–
Junior Kindergarten COWICHAN
Be curious. Be kind. Be brave. Be you. Simple, yet powerful value statements for trailblazers of tomorrow, as no two journeys are the same.
At QMS, opportunities abound for students to engage in academics, the fine arts, athletics and cocurricular activities that foster excitement for learning and inspire a passion to look deeper. A healthy in-house lunch program keeps students happy and our five-day school program ensures families remain connected. Whether in the classroom, on the field, on stage or in the equestrian ring, we create confident leaders who can express their ideas and engage in their learning.
Nestled on 30 beautiful acres in the heart of the Cowichan Valley, QMS proudly provides a diverse range of programs for young people to explore. Our Equestrian Centre offers enriched equine wellness and rider training while Innisfree Farm provides space for farmto-table, applied skills and environmental stewardship programs for students. We continually strive to incorporate all aspects of learning with our academic and co-curricular offerings to build dynamic and inspiring experiences for all students.
Our all gender day and boarding student population is an integrated, diverse, inclusive community where each student is recognized and our deep community connections are enriched through service, entrepreneurship, the fine arts and social justice initiatives.
Applications are still being accepted for select grades this September. Tours are available by appointment.
admissions@qms.bc.ca | qms.bc.ca | 250.746.4185
International Montessori and Noorunissa Montessori Academies
HEART CENTERED
MONTESSORI EDUCATION
Preparing for life beyond school
• Pre-kindergarten through elementary
• Before and after school care available
• Spring Break and summer programs
• Enriched after school care programs available in elementary
• Small classes with individual attention and support staff
• Fully equipped with Montessori hands on learning materials
• Stimulating environment where children’s individual strength is encouraged
Accepting 2024/2025 School Year Registration
Contact your preferred campus for a tour. www.intmontessori.ca
NOORUNISSA MONTESSORI ACADEMY
KindergartenGrade 6
International Montessori Academies has been nurturing children in the Cowichan Valley since September 2016, when our school’s director, Ms. Inayat Bergum, first opened the Montessori school at The Hub at Cowichan Station.
“ My calling began shortly after obtaining a superb Montessori training in Paris, France in 1962, and it was to unite children from all aspects of life in the United States, Canada, as well as Mexico through the Montessori way of education. Throughout the years, I have trained numerous teachers using Montessori methodologies and have opened many Montessori’s throughout the Orange County area in Southern California.”
– Inayat Bergum
INTERNATIONAL MONTESSORI
Pre Kindergarten Program
Ages 3-5 years
We are a Montessori-inspired independent school following the BC curriculum. Our elementary program offers small classes and individual attention for students from Kindergarten to Grade 6. As a Montessori school, we provide a stimulating
International Montessori Academies of Canada
Inc. is the sister school of NoorUnissa Montessori Academy, offering an enriched Pre-Kindergarten Program for students from 3 – 5 years of age (with limited spaces for students 30-36 months). Our school day
environment where children are encouraged to continue their learning in an experiential, hands-on way. Our space will lead children to explore the world, express themselves creatively, and develop meaningful relationships in a safe environment. We enrich our students curriculum with various activities including gardening, art classes, cooking, wood working, music, field trips and other special events.
Our Hub Campus and our Shawnigan Lake Campus
begins at 9:00 am and ends at 3:00 pm. We offer before school care, 7:30 -9:00 am and after school care from 3:00 – 5:00 pm at both of our campuses.
Our new Lake Cowichan campus is scheduled to open its first classroom in September 2024. Please call 250-932-3033 with your questions, and to add your family to our growing wait list.
Please visit www.intmontessori.ca for an over view of our school.
All of our admissions/ registrations are processed by our main
are both beautiful locations. The Hub is surrounded by forest and nature trails, with access to several sports fields and a gymnasium. Our Shawnigan Lake location is lakeside, surrounded by paved trails and grassy areas. These trails allow all students, including those with mobility challenges, to explore and connect with the environment. Elementary classrooms opening soon at our new location in Lake Cowichan.
office at our Hub location. Please use office.noorunissa@ gmail.com
COWICHAN VALLEY PRIVATE & INDEPENDENT SCHOOL GUIDE
SUNRISE WALDORF SCHOOL
Cowichan Station
Preschool to
Grade 8
With a holistic approach to education, Sunrise Waldorf students know the pleasure of harvesting carrots they planted themselves, and tasting delicious autumn soup
that contains produce from
the spring. This year we are pleased to be adding a Garden Coordinator and Instructor to the staff to enhance student gardening opportunities and learning. The experience of growing food, as well as the many traditions and celebrations of the year, are an integral part of the seasons at Sunrise. In the fall, kindergarten students make Thanksgiving desserts from Sunrise-orchard apples; and parents gather to make hot cider for our
and families through collaboration and celebration. Sunrise students engage in hands-on learning, including woodwork and fibre arts such as weaving and knitting, and the arts including visual arts, singing, drama, and learning to play various instruments. Classroom-based inquiry and experiential programming encourages a broad spectrum of growth and learning within the strong academic curriculum.
At Sunrise, students develop practical skills, foster an inquiring mind, and build a deep respect for nature and each other. Sunrise teaches students to be kind, conscientious, and to be of service in their community. APPLY NOW! We are currently accepting applications for the 24-25 school year. Please contact admissions@sunrisewaldorf. org for a tour and/or more information.
@sunrisewaldorf www.sunrisewaldorf.org
ÉCOLE DES CASCADES
Duncan la maternelle jusqu’à la 7e année
Éducation gratuite en français
Pour avoir rêvé grand depuis la création de l’école des cascades en 2020, voilà que nous entrons cet automne dans un grand et beau bâtiment situé 3039 rue Sprott, à Duncan. Des grandes salles de classe, des locaux spacieux, un beau gymnase et surtout une énorme cour qui va nous permettre de pratiquer l’enseignement à l’extérieur. Notre organisation publique offre de l’enseignement gratuit en français de la maternelle à la septième année. De plus nous aurons la chance d’accueillir la nouvelle garderie francophone qui occupera un espace dans l’établissement. L’ouverture est prévue en janvier 2025 et sera disponible pour les enfants de 30 mois à 4 ans. Un service de transport en autobus est offert tant aux élèves de l’école que les enfants de la garderie. Le territoire desservi va de Lady Smith au nord, du Lac Cowichan et jusqu’à Mill Bay au sud de la
Vallée de Cowichan.
L’école des Cascades fait partie du conseil scolaire francophone de la ColombieBritannique. En septembre prochain, elle en sera à sa cinquième année d’existence. Le projet éducatif est conforme aux attentes ministérielles de la province. Nous avons développé chez nos élèves un lien fort avec la francophonie et la communauté francophone de la Vallée. En plus de recevoir un enseignement de qualité, les élèves de l’école des Cascades bénéficient de leçons en musique (le violon) et sont initiés à la robotique. Avec une Association de parents forte et engagée qui a gagné un prix d’excellence, notre communauté d’école à beaucoup de soutien et encouragement dans nos projets.
Nous nous assurons d’offrir une éducation à la hauteur des aspirations des enfants du 21e siècle.
Pour tout renseignement, École de Cascades 756 Castle Place, Duncan, 250 737-4486 cascades.csf.bc.ca ecole_cascades@csf.bc.ca
Closing the Gap, Opening Hearts
Closing the Gap –
Breastfeeding for All” is the theme of World Breastfeeding Week 2024 August 1st to 7th, with 5 principal messages addressed by the World Alliance for Breastfeeding Action (WABA) stating what concerns, necessary mindsets and actions are needed to reach this goal.
1st Message:
“Lack of breastfeeding support during the critical first week negatively affects the overall breastfeeding intentions and prevalence.”
2nd Message:
“Unregulated donation of breastmilk substitutes combined with a lack of access to clean and
safe water during emergencies place infants and young children at higher risk of malnutrition and mortality.”
3rd Message:
“Breastfeeding can act as an equalizer in our society and efforts must be made to ensure especially the vulnerable group has access to breastfeeding support and opportunities.”
4th Message:
“Investment in breastfeeding to address these inequalities is vital and can help alleviate the social inequalities”
5th Message
“Protecting, promoting, and supporting breastfeeding addresses inequalities that stand in the way of sustainable development.”
I would like to address the first message stressing the importance of the mother baby dyad in all communities having access to breastfeeding support within the first postnatal week. Imagine a world where every new mother feels confident and supported in her breastfeeding journey from day one. This vision is at the heart of World Breastfeeding Week 2024’s first key message. Let’s explore why this matters to you and your growing family. The Magic of the First Week
Those initial days after welcoming your little one are filled with wonder, challenges, and profound change. It’s a time of discovery for both you and your baby – and when it comes to breastfeeding, those early moments are pure gold. With the right support, you can unlock a beautiful, nourishing connection that benefits both of you for years
to come.
Empowering Your Journey
Remember, you don’t have to attempt reaching your breastfeeding goals alone. It’s ideal to research what resources you have access to before your baby is born and to consider taking a breastfeeding preparation workshop to boost your confidence and set you up for success sooner than later. Once you have a list of the resources available to you, start calling those people and take the time to meet with them in person or talk with them over the phone to find out more about how they can be of help to you so that you and your baby can joyfully breastfeed with minimal challenges interfering with your goals.
Consider some or all of the following resources to start building a community of support:
Healthiest Babies Possible and Early Years Programs
La Leche League Groups
Midwifery Centers offering breastfeeding support groups
Infant Breastfeeding Craniosacral Therapists
Lactation Consultants
Classical Homeopath (there are many remedies that support breastfeeding)
Virtual consultations can bring expert guidance right to you.
Connect with other breastfeeding moms who’ve walked this path and are eager to share their wisdom
A Gift for Life
By embracing early breastfeeding support, you’re giving your baby an incredible head start.
You’re nurturing their health, strengthening your bond, and even safeguarding your own well-being for years to come. It’s a profound act of love that ripples through generations.
Closing the Gap, Opening Hearts
“Closing the Gap – Breastfeeding for All” isn’t just a theme; it’s a promise. It’s about ensuring that every family, regardless of background or location, has the chance to experience the joy and benefits of breastfeeding.
Your Voice Matters
As we celebrate World Breastfeeding Week 2024, let your voice be heard. Share your experiences, support fellow parents, and advocate for better early breastfeeding support in our community. Together, we can create a world where every parent feels empowered to give their child the best possible start.
Remember, your breastfeeding journey is unique and beautiful. With the right support from the very beginning, you have the power to nurture, nourish, and create a bond that will last a lifetime. You’ve got this!
Christina Hamill RCST® PPNE Cowichan Valley Craniosacral & Early Beginnings Parent Coaching
Using Special Time to Transform Your Parenting
Teddy is a therapist who works at the intersection of climate and mental health. teddykellam.com
When I was a young mother, I wondered how to give my kids the deep emotional safety that I had craved as a child, while at the same time holding limits so they would learn how to be in the world. Two opposing endeavours, it seemed. One day a friend invited me to learn about Hand-in-Hand Parenting, an organization founded by Patti Wipfler over 35 years ago. Hand in Hand offers evidence-based tools that are deeply considered and also practical for the daily tasks of raising kids. While it’s a very loving philosophy, Hand-in-Hand also guides parents to set limits with confidence. The premise is that children are inherently good, and that a strong emotional bond between parent and child is a “super-protective” factor that prevents a variety of problems over time.
One of the Hand in Hand tools that can quickly transform family life is called Special Time. It is a specific period of uninterrupted time that you spend playing oneon-one with your child, while your child directs the play. It works as well with toddlers as it does with teens.
When I first heard of Special Time, I felt confused. I already spend hours with my kids every day! However, there were endless distractions – making snacks, resolving conflicts, relentless tidying of crumbs and dishes and scattered crayons that filled my home. Though my children were adored little humans, undivided one-on-one attention from me was actually rare.
How do you do it?
First, you designate how long Special Time will be. From 5 to 20 minutes is a good place to start, depending on your patience that day. You set limits around the experience (e.g. “Today we have fifteen minutes, we can be inside or outside, and we won’t drive”). Set a timer on your phone and tuck it away, to free you both from watching the clock.
Once the timer starts, the child is allowed to be in charge of what happens and how it happens. “This allows them to show their interests, preoccupations, struggles and concerns. With this comes a rare kind of one-on-one closeness and emotional safety that boosts children’s confidence and sense of connection” says parenting instructor Madeline Winter.
There are no interruptions during Special Time. Julianna Idleman advises, “Don’t answer the door, don’t check your messages, don’t clean up anything, don’t let your mind wander, just be with your child. Delight in your child. Learn something new about your child and the way he sees the world. Focus and be present. This is not a teaching moment.” Special Time should not be contingent on good behaviour. It’s not a reward, nor should it be removed as punishment. In fact, when an out-of-sorts child gets back into connection with you, they often behave better later. Ideally, you’ll start with a few short sessions each week and build from there.
During Special Time try not to scold, redirect, or teach. If you need to set limits for safety, set them warmly and playfully. Be proactive, but if something goes wrong, don’t blame the child. Allow them to try and do whatever they would like, as long as it’s not truly dangerous.
From Patti Wipfler: “They can do things you ordinarily can’t allow, because for this time, you put your squeamishness, your preferences, your worries, or your judgment aside, and let them try the thing you wouldn’t choose to do in a million years.” It’s important to name Special Time. Call it something (when my friend’s kids became teens, they changed it to “The Time that Shall Not Be Named”) so your child can ask for it. Even a two-year-old can learn to ask for Special time as an alternative to “acting out” when they feel
themselves going off-track. When the buzzer rings, some kids use the increased sense of safety to offload some emotions that have been building. If that happens, hold warm space for them to cry or complain. A sad child at the end of Special Time does not indicate failure; instead of getting grumpy afterwards, let your child’s emotions happen with your warmth intact. If you want to start Special Time with your teen, it’s ideal if you can go screen-free. However, if that’s the “way in” with a teen who is struggling, you can expand your activities together over time as connection and trust grow.
How will I know it’s working? Special Time can resolve power struggles and tensions. Founder Patti Wipfler explains “You might see a bit more affection, a bit more laughter, or you might hear about issues or experiences they haven’t talked about before. Your child might cry long and hard about a little thing, opening up the feelings they didn’t dare to express before. Your child may have a fiery upset, trusting you to anchor them while they blast off the fears that kept them guarded, worried, testy. You can welcome these signs that your attention has made them feel safer, and that they are trusting you to understand that feelings rushing out allow love and contentment to flow in.”
If you feel intrigued, learn more at www.handinhandparenting.org.
RIVER SONG FARM PROGRAM
Glenora Early Learning to Ages 6-8
The voice of the Cowichan River is punctuated by the occasional crowing of roosters and the bleating of sheep on this healthy, giving land, rightly named, ‘River Song Farm.’ Over the last seven years this magical setting has become a centre for biodynamic agriculture, anthroposophical study, wake support, painting, and Waldorfinspired arts and nature programs for children.
At the core of our programs and activities are playful curiosity, reverence for life, purposeful work, meaningful relationships to all kingdoms (mineral, plant, animal and human), and love for the beauty all around us. Parents of children in their earliest years of life longed for a setting that would bring together a small community of families in a physically and emotionally nurturing sphere. Our Early Childhood program responded with a passion to grow with these children and families in an environment where the little ones could move actively in nature, discovering her secrets.
As George Washington Carver said, “Anything will give up its
secrets if you love it enough. Not only have I found that when I talk to the little flower or to the little peanut, they will give up their secrets, but I have found that when I silently commune with people they give up their secrets also – if you love them enough.”
Through regular interactions with life on the farm, experiential relationships are formed to the expressions of the seasonal rhythms of the earth and cosmos, as reflected in the cycles of life and death, of giving and receiving by the plants and animals here. Children are supported by a mentor who is versed in the living art of Waldorf philosophy. Observing the children, opening to relationship and seeing them anew each day allows the adult to offer what is needed to the group and the individual. There is a creative process that weaves knowledge and discovery in an artistic balance.
With our hearts full of anticipation, we invite a grade one equivalent program into River Song, this fall. Families with children between the ages of 6 and 8, may apply. Come for a tour and meet the mentors, the land and the animals. The emerging future draws us towards it and we can consciously choose a rich and health giving environment to support our children in a complex life full of challenges and gifts. For more information contact Michelle at bluegreenconcepts@gmail.com
RiverFarmSong Farm
Berries and Cherries and Plums, Oh My! Apples and Peaches and Pears, Oh My!
The Cowichan Region is home to thousands of fruit trees often left to drop their fruit to the ground to compost or rot away in the summer’s sun. With rising food costs and increasing food insecurity, free gleaning programs like FruitSave Plus provide affordable access to healthy and nutritious food by rescuing unharvested fruit.
FruitSave is a 100% volunteer-driven gleaning program, established by CGC almost 20 years ago. We organize gleaners to harvest fruit that would otherwise go to waste in back yards, businesses, and farms. Locally grown fruit, including berries, cherries, plums, currants, apples, pears, peaches and more (even vegetables “Plus”) is shared equally between owners, gleaners, and CGC’s
programs. Windfall can be left in owners’ composters or distributed to local farmers.
In 2023, almost 27,000 pounds of fruit was saved, of which 8,871.5 was donated. Almost 7,000 of the donated bounty was apples! We had the pleasure of having two classroom picks by local schools which was a very heartwarming, learning opportunity for the students on sharing the harvest with those in our community.
In 2024, FruitSave Plus offers some exciting program enhancements which include: harvesting other produce, streamlining registration and the providing in-kind tax receipts to donors.
If you would like to contribute, we invite you to sign up to become a volunteer FruitSave harvester, Program Coordinator, register your trees/crops for harvesting, or make a donation. We’re always looking for new equipment including orchard ladders, berry picking combs, totes, pick baskets/bags and straps, picking poles clean tarps and money is great too!.
FruitSave Plus is a great way to get outdoors, meet your neighbours, and contribute to your community. For more information, please contact us at 250748-8506 fruitsave@ cowichangreencommunity.org or register online at: https:// cowichangreencommunity. org/fruit-save/
AUGUST CLASSES
We are a textile-based studio located in the heart of the Cowichan Valley.
Studio Closed
July 31- August 11
August 12 3 - 6pm Dopp Kit $105
August 19, 22, 26, 29
3 - 6pm Adult Learn to Sew $375
August 18, 25 11am - 2pm
Clyde Work Pants $180
August 22, 29 12:00 - 2:30pm
The Perfect T-Shirt or T-Shirt Dress $145
August 24
10am - 3pm Summer
Wardrobe Builder $145
August 24 3-5 pm
Alterations & Repair
Workshop $60
250 710 -1165
info@thespoolyard.ca THESPOOLYARD.CA
The fashion industry is responsible for a staggering amount of the planet’s carbon emissions. Obviously, that is something that needs to change. Thankfully, we are seeing progress with the emergence of slow fashion brands that are making the production of highquality garments and adhering to ethical environmental practices part of their mandates. But we still have a long way to go. Enter deadstock fabrics.
“Deadstock” is the term used for any surplus fabric from a textile mill or fashion manufacturer’s output. This surplus could be the result of a miscalculation in production, the discovery of unexpected small flaws, or just plain ol’ leftovers. But who doesn’t love leftovers?
The Spool Yard is dedicated to educating our community on the value of repairing and repurposing our clothing, but we also realize that buying fabrics for new projects is a reality. That’s why we are thrilled to announce that we will soon have a wide range of deadstock fabrics available for purchase at our studio. All of the inventory will be composed of natural
What Is Deadstock Fabric?
fibers—linens, cotton, hemp, bamboo—the good stuff. And these fabrics, given their source, will be one of a kind— here for you to ooh and ahh over, but once a particular bolt is gone, it’s gone.
We feel that offering up these deadstock fabrics as an option to our clientele will have a positive impact on the environment while still aligning with our sustainability mandate and supporting our sewists in making and mending their own clothes. By securing these fabrics in bulk from the source, we can offer them to customers at a reasonable price. While it’s not accurate to claim that we are keeping these fabrics out of the landfill—the staggering
amount of fabrics that do end up there are predominantly man-made fibers from the fast fashion industry—we can say that by purchasing these “ends,” you can feel good about the fact that these beautiful fabrics have found a new life, and that your actions reduce the amount of resources and energy required to produce new materials. A small step toward a more sustainable and ethical society.
Note: The studio will be closed July 31 through August 11. Happy summer!
Tanya Trafford is an instructor at The Spool Yard.
Plants for Dry Locations
We can take the heat!
Smoke Bush
Pampas Grass
Genista as ground cover
Juniper
Spiraea
Epimedium
Red Hot Poker - Kniphofia
Sedum or Stonecrop
Thyme
Sword Fern for shade
Silk Tree
Himalayan Cedar
Pine Trees - many varieties and more....
SUMMER HOURS:
Weekdays: 8:30 to 5:30
Weekends and holidays: 9 to 5
Serving local gardeners since 1973
www.dinternursery.ca
250 748-2023
5km South of Duncan on Hwy 1
Gardening in Dry Summers
This year has so far been average for precipitation and temperature. Our climate pattern is wet winters and summer dry spells. The dry summer is when plants are actively growing and need water. Currently, we are also being asked to conserve water Lawns are heavy users of water, requiring about 1 inch of irrigation per week. Fortunately, grass is adapted to going dormant during dry spells. The new norm is to let your lawn area go brown in summer with the added benefit that there will be no mowing and care required. It will green up with the fall rains.
Reduce water loss by creating shade and wind barriers with trees and hedges. Trees should be positioned for shade from the afternoon sun. Hedges create shelter from prevailing winds. Make sure to select a drought tolerant hedge such as Leyland Cypress. When watering, use the most efficient methods available. A drip system or hand watering with a trigger nozzle is desirable for planters, vegetable
gardens and landscaped beds. Overhead sprinklers are the least efficient.
Mulching conserves soil moisture by reducing evaporation, supressing weeds and breaks down into organic matter. The most common mulch locally is bark with the finer grinds breaking down into useful organic material. Homemade compost or products like fish compost also work well.
All plants, even the most drought tolerant require irrigation to become established. Plants can get a head start by planting in fall when natural moisture becomes available. The
warm fall soil gives the root system time to penetrate the subsoil. Add organic material to improve soil structure and water holding ability. Water deeply to draw the roots down.
Native plants are adapted to local conditions and there are many ornamental plants suited to dry conditions. With planning many plants are available to create an attractive and ecologically diverse garden.
Bernie Dinter, owner Dinter Nursery. Family owned and operated since 1973 offering 3 generations of horticultural knowledge.
Silk Tree
Get Off My Lawn? Alternatives For a Sustainable Future
Increasingly, home-owners are looking for alternatives to their lawns as the climate on south Vancouver Island changes and water use is being restricted. Here are a few questions to ask if you are lawn-curious yourself:
Firstly, do you really need a lawn? For bare feet and a children’s play area it’s ideal, but there are alternatives as a surface. Lawn needs a lot of maintenance that you may not have the time, will, or physical ability to do. Besides, the carbon footprint, fertilizer and amendments impact our collective ecology. Alternates include hardscaping, pea gravel, mulches and “steppable” plants like creeping thyme and clovers can be perfectly viable.
Green with lawn envy?
Emerald green lawns for visual effect use enormous amounts of water in a time where our water supply is under severe pressure and offer little more than a monoculture of alien grasses. Native wildflower meadows / native grass blends / groundcovers and even mosses are a trend in modern grass-scapes. Low impact
and lower maintenance, these treatments can be a welcome ecological oasis for our pollinators and wildlife.
Can that space be for growing, not mowing?
Adding a new garden space instead can increase important shade and habitat while reducing the inputs and effort required to maintain it. Transitioning to a perennial garden filled with native flowers and plants is another excellent way to create a sustainable and vibrant outdoor space.
Can that space pay its way?
A mini-orchard, food-forest or raised bed veggie patch could feed your family while replacing your time outside with something beneficial. These do require time and effort but give back with food unmatched by the grocery store.
This is why we’re exploring eco-friendly lawn alternatives that not only reduce our environmental footprint but also create a vibrant, diverse, and sustainable landscape. At Inherit Design Landscaping, we’re here to help you design and implement these eco-friendly solutions, transforming your outdoor spaces into thriving ecosystems that love the earth as much as you do. www. inheritdesignslandscaping.com
Whata sweet time of year. Well into the growing season there’s such an abundance of produce to delight the taste buds. Biting into juicy locally grown tomatoes, you can detect the difference in flavour across varieties. Maybe you can even taste the difference in the same variety from farm to farm. Contrast this with the little red rubbery balls that masquerade as tomatoes in the supermarket… close your eyes and take a bite of one of those and you’d be forgiven for not being able to tell that it was a tomato at all.
Bakery, Meat, Seafood, Produce, Deli & Floral, Supplements
Cure Artisan Meat & Cheese 250 929-2873
Charcuterie, Cheese House Made Pates Liquor Plus 250-929-1999
I’ve written before about the connection between soil health (as defined by a balanced community of soil food web organisms) and taste. Plants are able to access both the micro and macro nutrients they need to thrive when the soil food web is intact, and this directly correlates to nutrient density (and thus, taste). We need those nutrients to thrive too, and don’t your tastebuds know it! This relationship between soil health and nutrient density is being documented in a growing database of studies in a demonstration of citizen science at its best. A device (a type of spectrometer, not dissimilar to a brix meter) is being developed to help consumers make informed, real-time decisions about nutrient density at the point of purchase.
Imagine pointing this affordable
Can Taste
little device, called the Bionutrient Meter, at something you wish to buy – a fruit, vegetable, grain, or even meat. Using light to measure the nutrients within, it sends this information directly to your phone, so you can make comparisons and decide which item has the best nutrient density for your buck. Will this choice contribute to my health? Do the management practices claimed by this particular grower stack up to the nutrient density in this particular produce?
I’m all for any development that empowers folks to be able to make decisions that support their own health. And the environmental impacts of being able to choose foods that are grown with practices that support living soil are incredibly exciting. To see the transparent, open-source work completed so far and to learn how you can help, check out www.bionutrientinstitute.
org. Heart and Soil Magazine also offers a great interview with founder Dan Kittredge on YouTube.
250 743-3337 Life Changing Hearing
Wine, beer and spirits on the Upper Level.
Now, go munch on a local tomato while you can.
Passion For Cowichan Green Community
Getting involved with a community organization who’s work you’re passionate about is rewarding in so many ways. I have been involved with the Cowichan Green Community (CGC) since shortly after moving to the Cowichan Valley. Over the years I have volunteered for and donated to CGC and, for the last three years, have been on its Board of Directors. The work that CGC does aligns with my values and I know I’m making an impactful contribution to the community by being involved. And I love meeting others who share my passion for making our community better.
Many people in our community are aware that CGC is a nonprofit organization with a focus on food security in the Cowichan Valley. But most aren’t aware of the incredible number of programs CGC operates that are truly making a difference in people’s lives. Here are a few:
• ReFresh Store and coupon program- over 120 vulnerable families and seniors receive $25 a week to shop in CGC’s low cost grocery store. There is a long wait list for this program.
• Farmers Market coupon
program – allowing over 140 low income families and seniors to shop for fresh, nutritious food from the farmers and producers. •Kin Park – youth urban farm and community gardens, kid’s camp and free food pantry booth for the community.
• Cob Pizza Oven in Centennial Park – offering free pizza to vulnerable youth every Thursday afternoon.
CAFE
• Food Recovery program – since 2018 CGC has recovered over 1,000,000 pounds of food from grocery stores that would have otherwise been discarded.
• Food Recovery kitchen –making and serving almost 2,000 meals a month for Meals on Wheels, the Village temporary housing on Trunk Road and homeless youth on the streets.
• Penelakut Island – delivery of food weekly.
• FruitSave program – picking, processing and sharing fruit from residents’ trees throughout the Valley that may otherwise have gone to waste.
• Inclusion Garden – to support elders in growing their own food.
• Educational programs – how to grow, cook and preserve food.
The CGC Farm on Beverly Street is a thriving food and plant producer and now has a Farm Market open to the public. CGC has taken three unused acres between a dike and a school and built a productive
farm. It will soon become the Farm and Food Hub with the building of infrastructure for a shared kitchen, teaching areas, warehouse space, cold and frozen storage and distribution facilities. These are exciting times to be involved with CGC as we move towards seeing this long-planned Food Hub become a reality.
My experience with CGC has been extremely enjoyable and if you share these values, I strongly recommend you get involved. We are seeking a few new board members. Any of the following skills, while not required,
OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK
would be an additional asset: business, financial, philanthropy, fundraising. The Board meets monthly and has opportunities to volunteer at various community events. Anticipated monthly time commitment is 6 to 10 hours. And you get served a nutritious dinner at our Board meetings!
If you are interested or even curious, please email CGC at: info@cowichangreencommunity. org to have a chat. We’d be happy to show you around the farm and answer any questions you might have.
Penny Lehan is a CGC Board member and local lawyer
• No Dental Exam Needed!
• Personal Treatment Rooms
• Professional, gentle and caring hygienists
• Free, accessible parking on property
• No long waits – get an appointment within 2 weeks!
• Flexible evenings & weekend appointments to accommodate all schedules
Carnivorous Plants to Enrich Your Life
These plants have almost an alien-like appearance and ability to capture prey using methods such as creating a vacuum and sucking their food right in (ex. Common bladderwort native to B.C.), or luring them into a one-way hairy spike trap (ex. Corkscrew plant). Although some species may be
too intensive for most owners, at Treefrog Tropicals we stock a variety of beautiful carnivorous plants that with the right amount of care and nurturing, can be a very manageable plant to grow, not to mention the benefits of having such a visual conversation starter!
Ricki Weissbach, DHP
Denise Vanderlee, DHP
Nepenthes St. Gaya (tropical pitcher plant)
A carnivorous plant seems like an oddity in nature. It’s the polar opposite of an herbivorous mammal, and is an adaptation that actually has many drawbacks that make it somewhat uncommon in the plant kingdom. That said, carnivory has evolved in many plant orders, making up a total of around six hundred species of plants that source nutrients from trapping and consuming insects and even small animals. Different types of carnivorous plants have evolved to grow indigenously on every continent on the planet besides Antarctica. These plants range in size from the Drosera Brevifolia, a dwarf sundew whose average size is only about three centimetres across to the massive Nepenthes Rajah, a plant which produces pitchers growing in size up to one foot in diameter which captures prey as large as small lizards and rodents! These incredible plants are turning the tables on the food chain, using different strategies of luring in and trapping their prey.
Carnivorous plants often grow in very wet tropical environments and bog terrain, they likely evolved their carnivorous mechanisms to make up for deficits in their habitat such as nitrogen low, water logged soil that you would find in such environments. Their adaptation of carnivorous feeding, which differs from most plants whose nutrients are sourced and processed through photosynthesis, can make up for harsh conditions such as low
nutrient rich soil and lower light. That said, in your home, they may not have access to the same amount or same kinds of bugs they may have in the wild. Because of this you can ensure your carnivorous plants are kept in a well lit environment so as to allow it to have the most nutrients possible. Even though it may not be their primary source of food, your bug eating plants also require the photosynthetic process to aid in their breakdown and digestion of their food. Keeping your plant near a window or light source will ensure that it can properly use the insects that it is consuming.
In your home, the most plentiful food for your bug hungry plant will likely be fruit flies, and if you have lots of other plants, fungus gnats. Though it may not be a total solution, if you ever have a problem with these bugs it can be a great idea to introduce a carnivorous plant as it will reduce your problem while benefiting your plant!
Overall a simple recipe for a healthful carnivorous plant would be, low nitrogen soil, lots of water, and lots of light. If you want to repot your plant into a terrarium or new pot it is important to use a medium that will replicate similarly an environment in which your carnivorous plant might grow in the wild. Medium mixtures including sphagnum moss, sand, peat moss, charcoal, pumice and perlite are ideal. These mediums will provide a porous soil that will stand up to the
amount of water your plant will be receiving, as well as creating the low nitrogen atmosphere that they have evolved to prefer. You don’t want to let your carnivorous plant dry out at all. They love water and can even be misted as a part of their care regimen. The type of water you use is also important, as tap water is too harsh. Filtered, distilled, or rain water you’ve collected are ideal.
You can absolutely keep your carnivorous in a pot, and care for it quite simply with success, but if you want to, you can go as far as you’d like in recreating their natural environment. A terrarium is perfect for this as you can be very precise with your humidity, and retain a humid environment for a moisture loving plant over a longer period of time.
Where you choose to locate your carnivorous plant will likely depend on its type. For instance, some pitcher plants, such as Nepenthes St. Gaya grow in a trailing manner, with beautifully variegated red and green pitchers hanging off small vines. This plant lends perfectly to a hanging habitat and has a distinctly tropical feel. At Treefrog Tropicals we carry the Nepenthes St. Gaya along with
two other varieties of pitchers. The Nepenthes Sanguinea is our other tropical pitcher. These two tropical pitchers, also known as monkey cups are of the very same genus as the Nepenthes Rajah, referred to as the King of Nepenthes for its size and level of predation. The Sarracenia is another pitcher plant at Treefrog. Commonly known as the Trumpet pitcher, this plant is indigenous to North America and although it likes a warm climate it is hearty enough to be kept outdoors. Its pitchers grow tall and regal, and when located outdoors it can collect its own rain water. Even when housing a heartier carnivorous plant outside it’s important to ensure that its soil does not dry out in hotter weather, and that in winter proper insulation, for example pine needle mulch may be necessary.
Along with beautiful varieties of pitcher plants, we carry varieties of venus fly traps in stunning reds and greens, as well as sundews ranging in origin from the Drosera Aliciae and Drosera Capensis of South Africa to the fork-leaved sundew of New Zealand. We also carry the beautiful flowering primrose butterwort. All of these plants would fit perfectly into a terrarium and would grow happily surrounded by moss and dew. They would also look beautiful solo in a pot near your window. No matter what plant you choose, just make sure to keep your spray bottle close by!
www.treefrogtropicals.com
Lily Oceana is a mixed media visual artist and freelance writer. @ lilyoceana.com
Sarracenia varieties Sundew Drosera Aliciae
Butterwort pinguicula primuliflora
AUGUST EVENTS
Sunday August 25th
10am - 2pm
FREEING YOUR VOICE
Discovering the Mystery and Magic of your Personal Song
Sliding Scale min $50 - $150
REGISTRATION OPEN
New Nature Programs for Children Ages 7 to 15 Years
8 Shields Deep Nature Connection Model Weekly, Monthly & Parent & Child programs
FREEING YOUR VOICE: DISCOVERING THE MYSTERY AND MAGIC OF YOUR PERSONAL SONG
I believe that each of us has within us a unique and special way of expressing ourselves through our singing voice. I deepened my own exploration of improvisational vocalizing 5 years ago, after I lost my voice and started singing in nature, to gently reawaken my voice in a prayerful and healing way. A unique new vocal practice developed. By quieting my mind and tuning into nature, then beginning from a place of inner stillness, I began to express what emerged vocally, with new freedom and inspiration. I was called to share this deeply nourishing experience.
During Freeing Your Voice, we will explore our voices alone and together, and learn how to wake up and warm up our vocal cords with some fun and easy exercises. We will step into a place of childlike wonder, in such a way that helps us overcome our fears, judgments, and limited beliefs about how we sound. Creating ease with ourselves and each other, we will form
a safe environment to release our songs, both with words and sounds.
Walking through the forest and stopping to sing at the river, we will connect with nature in a new way that builds a bridge to the beauty and mystery of our individual voices. By tapping into our intuition and opening up to the inherent wisdom in nature, new pathways through to our own songs are welcomed and teased out. It is an honour to share and hear each others voices. Each unique song is a gift to be unpacked and cherished.
I thank my music and vocal improvisation teachers Par Ahlbom and Rhiannon, for preparing my foundation to do this meaningful and connective vocal work. I also give gratitude to my Nature Connection mentors (Wisdom of the Earth and Helpers Mentoring Society), who have opened me up to new portals of information and knowledge, that help inform what our voices can express in song, born in response to the magical and mystical moments outdoors.
I invite you to come explore vocal improvisation with me on Sunday August 25th at the Lila Music and Nature Center. For adults. All voice levels are welcome. Register at cariburdett.com
Cari Burdett is a vocalist and Artistic Director at Lila Music Centre.
Vocalist Cari Burdett
RIFFLANDIA 2024
It’shard to believe that, in a few short weeks, Rifflandia Festival will return to Victoria. With a concentrated, one-weekend festival experience this year at the Matullia Lands at Rock Bay, September 13th - 15th will be THE epic end of Summer party for everyone. Boasting incredible headlining acts Rezz, TLC, Ja Rule, Oliver Tree, The Beaches, De La Soul, Tokyo Police Club and so much more, there’s no better place to squad up with friends to enjoy western Canada’s greatest festival weekend.
The new site at Rock Bay will feature an incredible mainstage and secondary (Phillips) stage, plus a new dance dome (think double the size of last year!) and the return of the Lafflandia comedy stage. To make up for the concrete, the site
will feature miles of multicoloured turf and multiple new amenities and areas for people to enjoy.
Kidlandia, presented in partnership with St. Margaret’s School, will return, bigger than ever with an instrument petting zoo and an array of arts & crafts and STEM activities - even the youngest Rifflandians will be vibing.
Committed to keeping it local, Rifflandia will again play host to a ton of local businesses and community organizations on-site, to keep you fed and entertained all day long and into the night! With plenty of food trucks to sample, local craft beverages to sip and vendors to explore there’s never a dull (hungry or thirsty) moment .
Join in Vancouver Island’s greatest festival experience today - it’ll make you wish it was September Forever
Rifflandia FestivalSeptember 13th-15th at The Matullia Lands at Rock Bay
Super Passes, Single Day Tickets and Kid’s Passes are available now at www.rifflandia.com
Rifflandia Festival is located within the unceded, traditional territories of the ləkʷəŋən People, known today as the Songhees Nation and the Esquimalt Nation.
Green Party Rally
August 16
There is going to be a BIG rally to get Cammy Lockwood elected in Cowichan Valley. Bring your enthusiasm and your Green fanfare.
First Nations welcome and speeches from Sonia Furstenau, BC Green Leader and current Cowichan Valley MLA, Cammy Lockwood, Candidate for Cowichan Valley, and David Evans, Candidate for Juan de Fuca, Malahat.
Hear about the Green vision for the Cowichan Valley. Artisanal Gelato will be serving sweet treats and Taco Revolution will be serving hot fresh tacos! Dance to some live music from Tropic Mayhem. This is the event you don’t want to miss! August 16th, 6:30pm, Duncan City Square, downtown Duncan.
naturally grown, local and delicious tomatoes, zucchini, garlic, lettuce, cucumbers, potatoes, green onions
Boots nʻ Roots
Permaculture Farm
Delicious food grown with love in Glenora
Available Saturdays at the Duncan Farmers Market Year round on cow-op.ca and cowichanmilk.ca
NOTICE OF INTENT
RE: LIQUOR CONTROL AND LICENSING ACT APPLICATION FOR A LOUNGE ENDORSEMENT
Application for a lounge (with patio) has been received by the Liquor and Cannabis Regulation Branch from Telltale Winery Incorporated located at 3897 Cobble Hill Road in Cobble Hill.
Proposed licensed hours are: 9:00 AM to 12:00 AM (Midnight)
Person capacity will be limited to 20 persons interior and 30 persons on the patio.
Residents located within a 0.5 mile (0.8 km) radius of the proposed site may comment on this proposal by:
1) Writing to:
The General Manager
C/O Senior Licensing Analyst
Liquor and Cannabis Regulation Branch PO Box 9292
Victoria, BC V8W 9J8
2) Email to: LCRB.SLA@gov.bc.ca
PETITIONS AND FORM LETTERS WILL NOT BE CONSIDERED
To ensure the consideration of your views, your comments, name and address must be received on or before July 31, 2024. Please note that your comments may be made available to the applicant or local government officials where disclosure is necessary to administer the licensing process.
Improving Food Price Transparency
Alistair
MacGregor MP for CowichanMalahat-Langford.
NDP’s Critic for Agriculture and Agri-food and NDP Caucus Chair
During this time of high food price inflation, most grocery shoppers have had to be constantly on the hunt for sales and bargains. We’ve also become quite attentive to price fluctuations and differences, including their relationship with product quantity. Indeed, we’ve all noticed the trend of “shrinkflation,” where a product’s price has either risen or remained the same, while the net weight or volume has diminished. In other words, paying more for less.
Roughly 80% of Canada’s grocery market is dominated by just five companies: Loblaws, Metro, Empire, Walmart, and Costco. These companies own and operate some of the stores we’re familiar with, such as Thrifty’s and Real Canadian Superstore. In fact, many of their subsidiaries were at one time competitors, who they bought out or merged with, leading to more corporate concentration and power. Canada-wide, their dominance and control in the retail grocery market has contributed to record profits, all at a time when Canadians have been struggling with food affordability.
I’ve taken this issue on as the federal NDP’s Food Price Inflation Critic by launching two Agriculture Committee investigations into the matter, which included summoning the CEOs of these five companies to answer for their business practices. Through the two
reports that our committee issued, and the political and public pressure of the moment, we have already seen some significant legislative changes to the Competition Act to give the Competition Bureau more authority in confronting corporate powers and profits. Among the recommendations of our reports was this: The Committee recommends that the Government of Canada work with provinces and territories to adopt a standardized approach to unit pricing labelling practices in the grocery sector to assist Canadian consumers in making informed decisions in their purchasing.
I introduced Bill C-406, An Act to establish a national framework to improve food price transparency, just before the House of Commons’ summer adjournment. This framework would establish national standards for the accuracy, usability, and accessibility of unit pricing for food and other household goods, and for transparency regarding price increases, adjustments, and fluctuations. There would also be included measures to promote unit pricing education. These measures would give legislative aid to consumers, helping them make informed decisions when grocery shopping.
For too long, there has been a culture of corporate deference from successive Liberal and Conservative governments in Ottawa. I believe it’s time to change the rules and swing the pendulum back in your favour. Bill C-406 is a part of that effort.
Three Strategies to Help You Pay Down Debt
Kristy Landry Financial Advisor, Edward Jones
Kristy.Landry@ edwardjones.com
Living with debt can be stressful, especially during high-inflationary periods where it can be more difficult to find extra money to put toward debt repayment.
The FP Canada 2023 Financial Stress Index tells us that 40% of Canadians report that money is their greatest source of stress, and 38% of Canadian’s are tackling that stress by paying down debt.
There are three primary methods to tackling debt:
The snowball method: This method focuses on paying off the smallest debt first. The goal is to reduce the number of creditors and to provide the debt payer with a sense of accomplishment that will help keep them motivated. Like a snowball, the effects of each payment are small at first, but as they pay off debt and eliminate creditors, they can
then allocate the savings to the next smallest debt, which compounds the impact. Using this method, they would make all minimum payments then pay down the Line of Credit (LoC). After the second month, the LoC would be eliminated, and the minimum payment of $10 could be added to the $435, increasing the remaining amount paid towards debt each month to $445. They would then work on paying down Credit Card 1.
The avalanche method:
This method aims to reduce the amount of interest paid and therefore increase the amount of debt payment that goes towards principal. With this method, they would make all minimum payments and allocate the remaining $435 towards Credit Card 2, as this debt carries the highest interest rate. Once Credit Card 2 is paid off, they would take the $435 and the $75 saved from the card’s minimum payment and allocate this to Credit Card 1. You can see that this method
Edible Landscapes
Yard Maintenance & Organic Garden Care
Ado Grimwood-Adam
Ado is an organic gardener, foodie and father of three living in the Cowichan Valley. He holds a Certificate in Permaculture from Langara College, and is passionate about sustainability, food security, climate change and organic gardening.
Whether you need yard maintenance, or want to establish Edible Landscapes, Ado is a reliable, friendly and helpful person to work with.
incorporates the snowball method but differs in which debt to repay first.
Debt consolidation: Debt consolidation can be a great tool for individuals with multiple creditors that are serious about repaying debt. With the above example, there is $7,000 available on the LoC, at a rate lower than both credit cards and the Personal Loan. Under the debt consolidation strategy, they would borrow $5,500 from the LoC to pay off both credit cards. They could take this one step further and make a one-time pre-payment to the personal loan of $1,500, thus maxing out the LoC, and increasing the minimum payment from $10 to $75.
The savings from the credit card minimum payments ($35 + $75 = $110) would more than cover the increased LoC payment and the difference can be used to continue paying down the Personal Loan. Once the Personal Loan is paid off, they would start paying off the LoC (nexthighest interest rate). Speak to your Advisor Everyone’s tolerance and capacity to hold debt is different. With the right advice and support, you can eliminate your debt and the stress that comes along with it.
Anyes Delaat, Soul Comfort Sheepskin
wool, is one of the most efficient ways to enhance healing. We have put together wound care kits with everything you’ll need to naturally augment your medical treatment and increase healing, especially with stubborn wounds.
Each kit contains Wool Pads, Lanolin Creme, and Hypochlorous Acid, our favourite 3 ingredients that will turbo charge your healing. Here’s what they each do:
Lanolin: Add to your wound the healing benefits of lanolin creme. Sheep naturally produce lanolin which helps protect their skin from the harsh elements. This waxy substance is highly prized and can be found in many skincare products. Lanolin forms a protective barrier on the skin, locking in moisture while allowing it to breath. Applying lanolin ensures deep healing and long lasting hydration, replenishing the skin’s natural oils. Lanolin is also antimicrobial and antibacterial.
Hypochlorous Acid: is a naturally occurring substance our immune system produces to fight bacteria and promote healing. It is a powerful antimicrobial agent that is a highly effective treatment against microorganisms such as bacteria, viruses and fungi. It is synthesized by taking water and salt, adding an electrical charge, transforming it into Acolyte water. What’s left after evaporation is Hypochlorous Acid. Sprayed onto a wound, it helps prevent infection by killing bacteria, while promoting new tissue growth and accelerating the
healing process. Unlike other antiseptics, it is non-toxic and does not sting, so is also ideal for pets and children.
Wool Pads: Covering a wound that is actively healing with one of our sanitary wool pads, adds the final piece to this healing trifecta, offering protective surroundings with the added benefit of breathability, something all wounds need to heal properly.
We are excited to now offer our wound care kits to the public. The kit is our best recommendation to aid those of you struggling to heal difficult cuts, burns, bed sores and surgical incisions. Visit our storefront on 4th Ave or jump online to get started on your natural healing journey today.
Soul Comfort Sheepskin
190 Fourth Street, Duncan 250 737-1281
Traditional Chinese Exercise for Health
Wild Goose Qigong (Chi Gong)
Gentle movement • Calms your mind • Heals internal organs • Develops flexibility
Mondays 9 -10 am Tuesdays 6 pm - 7 pm (combined Qigong and Chun Yuen) Wednesdays 10-11:15 am
Northern Shaolin Chun Yuen Quan
Dynamic movement • Improves posture • Increases energy • Strengthens bones Tuesdays 6 pm - 7 pm
(combined Qigong and Chun Yuen)* Wednesdays 9 am - 10 am
www.WildGooseQigongCentre.com 250
Amelia Breckenridge Lover of life and all things coffee co-owner Third Wave Coffee and Gifts Crofton
We have always used light to illuminate, beautify and even protect our homes. Prior to the widespread use of electricity, the dancing light of a candle or hearth flame was part of everyday life, still is in some parts of the world. For many of us, natural light invokes a sense of nostalgia, and connection with the past. Decorating with refracted light is a beautiful way to enliven our living spaces safely year round! One of the easiest ways to decorate with light is with suncatchers. As the light spectrum is normally invisible to our human eye, crystals and other elements such as glass are used to separate white light into its
many colours in a way that is pleasing to our eyes- and our hearts. Decorating with light is a fun, natural way to beautify your home, and also perhaps, protect it from negative energies. Suncatchers have a long history in North America and are thought to originate from the South-West. They are believed to capture the Suns’ positive energy and in turn, energize the surrounding environment by dispersing it in the form of rainbows and lovely sparkling light. The best placements for suncatchers is believed to be in entryways, and in bedrooms. Not only are they thought to repel and disperse negative energy, they can help to SLOW DOWN energy especially in entryways, to create a more balanced and relaxed space or home. I certainly slow down to appreciate the play of light
created by them! Another suggested use is to include suncatchers in your morning rituals, when you set intentions for your day, do yoga or drink your morning coffee –a simple practice of noticing beauty and joyfulness wherever we find it. At Third Wave we have a large selection of suncatchers available starting under $10 in a wide selection of styles and colours. They make a great gift for anyone who enjoys a little sparkle in their life. Come by and we’d be happy to show you their beauty in action. Visit us in August
Illuminate With Suncatchers
for our BOGO sale and pick something for a friend and yourself!
Third Wave Coffee, 1532 Chaplin Street, Crofton
Living With Jaw Pain
Dr. Joanne Welham, B.A, D.C, Chiropractor Chiani Wellness Centre
“It’s great for weight loss” she laughed. But clearly, it wasn’t funny.
“My jaw clicks when I eat. It’s so irritating that it makes me want to stop eating.” She came to see me to see if anything could be done to help her TMJ. When I assessed her jaw and discovered that it wasn’t seated evenly, I told her that I could help.
The temporal-mandibular joint (TMJ) is influenced by many of the bones that surround it. The temporal bone sits on the sides of the head. The sphenoid bone (beside the eyes) influences this joint as well as movement in the the neck and shoulders. If any of these bones or joints
are not functioning optimally, it can shift the seat of the TMJ so it doesn’t move evenly in its socket. The result is a “click” as it knocks the edge of its seat, trying to move through.
Working with a jaw that clicks can be challenging as there are so many influencing factors. A “click” in the jaw is different from a “clunk,” which may mean that the disc has moved in front of the condyle. This can happen naturally with age, and the only help that is really available for this is time.
Often we have to do intra-oral work to re-seat a jaw, and we can stretch out the pterygoid muscles and the masseter muscles. This is done by holding a gloved finger against the muscle while the patient moves his jaw to the side to stretch it. The sphenoid bone is accessible
Chiani Wellness Centre
when accessed from this angle, and we can shift its position and let it sit more evenly.
“It feels like you’re not doing anything” is what I often hear. The pressure is light but the results can be astounding. One patient exclaimed “my
head feels like it can fill up with air” after we created room for her jaw to sit evenly.
If you are experiencing a click when your jaw moves, I can help. Book an appointment with me at Chiani Wellness Centre.
Whenwe bring a pet into our lives, we welcome a new family member who offers unconditional love, loyalty, and companionship.
For many of us, our pets become our confidants, our sources of comfort, and our steadfast friends. They are part of some of our most memorable events but also present in our mundane day-to-day tasks therefore when the time comes to say goodbye, the pain can be overwhelming and downright debilitating.
“It’s not just a dog, it’s my dog.” Or perhaps for you, it’s a cat, a parrot or a ferret. Regardless, the bond between a human and their pet is unique and profound. It’s a connection that often goes unrecognized in its depth and significance. In this article, I will shed light on the reality of pet loss grief, aiming to provide a compassionate and supportive guide through the stages of saying goodbye to a beloved companion.
It’s
Not Just a Dog, It’s My Dog
The Journey of Grief
The experience of losing a pet can feel like losing a part of yourself. The grief that follows is real and valid, yet it’s a type of sorrow that society doesn’t always acknowledge. I approach the emotional landscape of pet loss in three parts: “Before,” “During,” and “After” the loss. Each phase has its own set of challenges and emotions and understanding them can help us navigate the journey with more compassion.
Before the Loss
Unfortunately, some of us may not have the time to experience this preparational phase. It is debated whether sudden loss is harder to experience than a slower decline in our pet’s health. Both have their unique challenges, in my opinion. When one has the chance to anticipate their grief, there’s an opportunity to explore ways to make the most of the time left and prepare for the inevitable farewell.
During the Loss
The next stage focuses on the moment of loss itself, including the difficult decision of euthanasia, the initial shock after a fatal accident, or the acceptance that our pet will not return for whatever reason it may be. It also encompasses the immediate aftermath.
After the Loss
How do we navigate the days, weeks, and months after losing a pet? This includes honouring our sadness and the memory of our beloved companion, as well as finding acceptance and adjusting to a new normal. There are various approaches in the psychology of grief, such as known five stages (KublerRoss), phases (Bowlby), and tasks (Warden), each with its strengths and limitations. However, the common goal in all of them is to process emotions.
An Invitation to Heal
As someone who spent most of my childhood surrounded by animals and who has experienced the pain of losing many beloved pets, I understand the heartache that comes with bidding a sad farewell to a furry, feathery or scaly friend. My journey led me to become a counsellor specializing in pet loss grief, dedicated to supporting others through this challenging time. Whether you’re anticipating the loss of a pet, currently navigating the pain of saying goodbye or adjusting to life without them, please know that you are not alone. I am here to offer you guidance and compassion as you cope with the loss of your cherished pet.
Together, let’s honour your pet by acknowledging the profound impact they’ve had on your life.
LUCKY DOG ARE WE IN LUCK!
The Pooch Pool School has moved to Cowichan! Formerly from North Nanaimo, this awesome dog sport is now in our back yard. This dock diving facility is the only sanctioned competition pool on Vancouver Island. And we can all go. The fifty-foot long pool has a regulation fortyfoot running dock so the dogs can get their best launch. The world record dive was made by a four-year old whippet named Sounder in 2019. He leapt 36 feet and 2 inches. Booking online is a breeze and when you have your spot reserved, the pool is all yours. No other dogs are diving or swimming with yours. You and your dog (or your dogs) have a trainer all to yourselves. Experienced coaches can help you dip your toes in or help you get competitive if you like. The
staff are all DogSafe first aid certified. You don’t need any special equipment, but a favourite floating fetch toy could be helpful. Relic and I did a half hour session and he loved it.
Any breed or age of dog is welcome. Humans, on the other hand, need to be accompanied by an adult if they’re under the age of 18. Please bring a lifejacket for kids under twelve. You can also book the pool for aqua therapy or a half day pool party with all your doggy friends. There are lots of class options from beginner’s fun jumps to competition practice. Thirty minutes to ninety minutes slots are available. North American Diving Dogs is the competition organization that awards titles to top performers. Having a title is recognized by the CKC/AKC, but your dog doesn’t need to be a CKC registered dog. You can pop by the Pooch Pool School during competitions to watch the stars strut their stuff. The finals are happening August 15-18 and Western Regionals are September 1-2. And the public is welcome. This is a fun and fast-growing sport and we’re lucky to have the Pooch Pool School in Cowichan. Thank you
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Available EVERY DAY at The Community Farm Store or WEEKLY online at cow-op.ca. Direct orders can be placed to hello@euphoricjuicery.com
to North Cowichan for welcoming them. The pool is at 2202 Herd Road just right of the Animal Shelter. (Please don’t call the shelter for info). Their website is
poochpoolschool.ca. Learn more, book online, plan a party. Go have some fun with your dog on a hot summer’s day.
Debbie Wood owns Lucky Dog U-Bath. She can be found on trails in the Cowichan Valley with her BF, Bonnie.
Photo Debbie Wood
Submitted by Patty Abbott Cowichan Bay, Photo Patty Abbott
1. Bamberton Provincial Park in Mill Bay offers a lovely sandy 225-metre-long beach. Play safely in the warmer waters from the inlet. Whether you prefer to play on the sand, kayak or SUP this park is ideal for many water activities. Enjoy the magnificent views across the inlet with views of the Saanich Peninsula and Mt. Baker in the far distance.
2. Shawnigan Lake offers several different locations for you to choose from. Masons Beach Park is easily accessed and a great place to play and swim with children. Easy parking nearby and trails to walk along the waters edge. Shawnigan Wharf Park has a great small sandy beach with a roped off area. A grassed area for picnics and play time. A great place for SUP, Kayaking and just enjoying the water. Great walks along the lake with peaceful views.
3. Cherry Point Beach in Cobble Hill is one of our most popular destinations for walking along a sandy beach. If you enjoy beach combing, then plan a visit at low tide.
Let The Water Be Your Guide
Popular with families with small children, dog walkers, and visitors who just want to wander along the seashore. Suitable for SUP, kayaking, swimming and walking. Parking is very limited.
4. The seaside Village of Cowichan Bay offers a different perspective of life on and near the water. Take a walk along the pier and see the many fishing boats and
float homes on the water. Scan the water for Harbour seals and other ocean life. Visit many of the quaint small shops, enjoy the many eateries and make sure to grab a delightful ice cream cone to end your visit. Rent a kayak or SUP or bring your own and put in at the purposely designed kayak launch at Cowichan Bay Marine Gateway / Hecate Park.
by Shiloh Badman
5. Fuller Lake in Chemainus has plenty of beachfront to set up with your favourite beach chairs in the sun or under the many shaded areas. Roped off area for swimming and for launching your SUP or Kayak off the boat ramp. There are change rooms and washrooms. Popular for families with children and has a playground.
6. Lake Cowichan and area has so many different options for enjoying the water. Gordon Bay Provincial Park is a favourite for swimming, boating and camping. Beautiful sandy beach for enjoying the day. The Tube Shack, in Lake Cowichan, offers rentals and shuttle bus services for tubing down the Cowichan River. Enjoy the big trees and nature trails as you discover all that this area has to offer. Explore and find your own little haven.
Stay safe and enjoy some of these options for spending time near the water.
How much to take me to the airport? fifteen dollars. and how much for the suitcase? no charge for the suitcase. OK. then take the case and I’ll Walk.
Meteor Shower August 11-13
When to watch: The moon will be at 1st quarter and 50% illuminated during this year’s peak of the Perseid meteor shower. The best time to watch for Perseids will be the peak day starting around midnight on August 11 until dawn. Viewing will be best mornings of August 11 and 12. Shooting stars will still be viewable on August 13 but the Perseids tend to fall off rapidly after the peak day. Enjoy!
Perseids
Aries (March 21-April 19)
This month has lots of Fire energy, which is good news for you because you are a Fire sign. Meanwhile, back at the ranch, your ruler fiery Mars is moving into your House of Communications. This is a double whammy! It means this month is the perfect time to express yourself to others -- great for those in sales, marketing, teaching, acting and writing. Nevertheless, both the Sun and Venus will also make this a fabulous time for vacations, social outings, romance, sports events and fun times with kids. Enjoy!
Taurus (April 20-May 20)
You’re a sensuous ripe peach. (You love good food, good wine, good sex and a nice place to live.) This month, the Sun and fair Venus will encourage you to relax at home, redecorate and make where you live more attractive. You’ll want to entertain as well. You might be involved with family more than usual, especially a parent. Invite family and friends over because people will enjoy laughter, good food and drink. It’s also an excellent time to explore real-estate deals.
Gemini (May 21-June 20)
You’re PowerPoint on steroids this month! Fiery Mars has moved into your sign boosting your energy, your aggressiveness and your sex drive. Woot! Mars will also make you more of a fighter for your rights than usual. Your physical energy level will be high, which makes you pumped and up for anything. Meanwhile, your days will be fast paced; and you’ll be eager to talk to everyone. You’re keen to learn new things, travel and discover new experiences. Fun times ahead!
Cancer (June 21-July 22)
This month your focus turns to money, cash flow, earnings and possessions. Of course, you’re never casual about money. You are thrifty and frugal. Nevertheless, this
month, you will spend money on beautiful things, clothing, jewelry, art objects, leather goods to name a few because you want the enjoyment of these items. However, at a deeper level, you’ll be thinking about your core values and what is important to you. You will want to know what really matters because if you don’t, you might miss the boat. (You don’t want to be 90 years old looking in the mirror thinking, “You blew it, kid.”)
Leo (July 23-Aug. 22)
Ta da! This month the Sun is in Leo. (Happens only once a year.) This will boost your confidence and up your game! This is also your chance to recharge your batteries for the rest of the year. You will project yourself to others more forcefully. You’ll make a strong impression on everyone. You will also have a need to express yourself because the Sun and Venus are both in your sign, making you charming, diplomatic and energized. (You can see what a winning combo this is.) Knowing this, now is the time to go after what you want. Make your pitch. Doors will open for you. Shop for wardrobe treasures!
Virgo (Aug. 23-Sept. 22)
Your personal year is drawing to a close because your birthday is a month away. That means this month is limbo-like. You’re waiting in the wings before you step out centre stage to take a bow. (Modestly, of course.) However, you can use this time to think about what you want for your new year ahead (birthday to birthday). Why not identify some goals? Goals give you a sense of purpose. They clarify future decision-making. They give you a clearer focus on what’s important, which ultimately gives you better control over your future. Cool!
Libra (Sept. 23-Oct. 22)
Good news! This month is the most sociable time of the year for you. Meanwhile, you are one of the most sociable signs in the zodiac. This is why friendships will be important right now. You’ll want to catch up with people and exchange histories. You
might also wonder what role certain friends play in your world? You want to find people who accept you for who you are, better yet, they love you for who you are. And best of all – they’ll pick up the tab for lunch. (Kidding.) This is also a great time to work with others. Partnerships will flourish.
Scorpio (Oct. 23-Nov. 21)
The Sun is at the top of your chart this month, which is eventful. This happens only once a year and when it does, it symbolizes that you’re in a spotlight. And this spotlight is flattering! This means you look great to others, which is why you might be asked to take on increased responsibilities or given a promotion. Fear not, you can handle whatever is expected of you because it’s all smoke and mirrors. People will admire you whether you do anything different or not. It’s time to advance your agenda!
Sagittarius (Nov. 22-Dec. 21)
You are the traveller of the zodiac, and this month the Sun is urging you to travel, see foreign countries, and learn and study. You might also explore avenues in medicine and the law. Meanwhile, Venus will attract new romance with someone “different.” Naturally, you’ll welcome chances to travel for pleasure, even if it’s a tiny get away. Meanwhile, fiery Mars opposite your sign, could make you irritated with partners and close friends. Consider this an opportunity to practice patience. You can handle this.
Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan. 19)
This month is full of passion, heady romance, and the stuff of movies. “Natasha!” “Boris!”
You might meet someone who makes you question things in your life. They might even be a force for change. They might challenge your value structure? Meanwhile, you will have a stronger focus on financial resources, shared property, taxes, debt and inheritances. You might also be concerned about trying to borrow money or get financial backing. Underlying all these possibilities, you will have a strong desire to be the best that you can be. And why not?
Aquarius (Jan. 20-Feb. 18)
Once a year, the Sun is opposite your sign. That time has arrived. This makes you involved more than usual with your partner or a close friend. The good news is this polarized position of the Sun gives you more objectivity to understand your relationships. While you can’t change the other person, you can change yourself. To put a finer point on it, you can change how you respond to that person. This is your best chance all year to improve your closest relationships. Bonus!
Pisces (Feb. 19-March 20)
You’re gung-ho to work. You intend to work efficiently, effectively and probably longer hours. This is because you want to get things done. You can expect a strong sense of reward and satisfaction from what you do. If you work with others, coworkers will be supportive and helpful. In fact, some of you might strike up a work-related romance in the next few weeks. Meanwhile, home improvements or visiting guests will make you put out extra energy to pull things together at home.
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DIRECTORY OF LOCAL SERVICES
LINDSAY CAMPA, RMT
The Final Report of the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls - Excerpt page 467
(from Dr. Allan Wade, psychologist based in Duncan) in The Final Report of the Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls, p.467):
“...[W]hy- if the man has been committing violence, why do we have the women sitting in the middle? You will see this over and over again. What happens is instead of focusing on the violence by the man, we focus on the brain, the body of the woman. We have been inside the minds of women for 125 years, trying to change the behaviour of men. It has never worked. It cannot work. It will not work.”
Reading and discussion group meets August 12 (also 19, 26) Cowichan Library 2687 James St Duncan FREE
