December 2012 Issue 49

COWICHAN VALLEY I FOOD I ART I EVENTS I RECREATION I COMMUNITY

If you are going to spend...

Eat, Drink and Buy Local Money spent in our community stays in our community.

A good local gift buying tip - spend your first $25 in a local store.

FREE December 2012 Issue 49

Culinary Arts Certificate

Professional Cook Level 1 and Level 2 Apprenticeship Training

New LOCATION! Providence Farm Classes

Wednesday – Saturday

3 pm – 945 pm

February 4, 2013 – November 22, 2013

Foodsafe Required

Call Student Services At

250 746-3509

For Admission Requirements! www.cc.viu.ca

Eat Local, Learn Local!

Are You Prepared For The Inevitable?

Do You Have?

• • • • •

A Will An Enduring Power of Attorney A Medical Representation Agreement An Advance Medical Directive (Living Will) An Estate Plan (that deals with jointly owned property, corporate property, trusts, registered accounts, life insurance, income tax and probate fees)

R. Brian McDaniel – bmcd@mcdancolaw.com Julia E. Henderson – jeh@mcdancolaw.com

Call Us To Discuss Your Plans Watch for opening date of the new restaurant in Spring 2013.

201 – 64 Station Street Duncan BC V9L 1M4

Tel: 250-748-6633 Fax: 250-748-1496

www.mcdancolaw.com

Published by Cowichan Valley Voice Magazine

Editors

Sheila & Richard Badman Contact us at: editor@cowichanvalleyvoice.com 250 746 9319 - 936 Arbutus Avenue, Duncan V9L 5X4 Visit us online at www.cowichanvalleyvoice.com Copy Editor Maeve Maguire Proofreader Diana Pink Distribution Linda Dirksen-Gale

Thank You For Supporting Valley Voice Advertisers!

Advertising Sales and Marketing Adrienne Richards 250 510 6596 or adrienne@cowichanvalleyvoice.com Next Ad Deadline December 18th *Non Profit Community Ad Rates available please enquire.

COMMUNITY CALENDAR LISTINGS ARE FREE! Please upload your information through our website Please include: Date & Event Title IN SUBJECT Be advised that space is limited to up to 2 spots per business, space dependant and is prioritized by 1st sent, 1st printed.

Next EVENTS deadline DEC 15th for JAN 2013 Issue.

E-mail to: events@cowichanvalleyvoice.com Cowichan Valley Voice Magazine reserves the right to omit and/or edit submitted listings due to space limitations Valley Voices Bill Jones, Susan Minette, Joy Story, Anne Best, Lara Bruschot, David Suzuki, Sandra Beggs, Bruce Wood, John Close, Dale and Alan, Tracey McLean, Lynn Shortt, Diane Brown, Loretta Zanatta, Linda Holford, Heidi, Zak Stolk, Rommy Verlaan, Massimo Pintus, Peter Spohn, Nan Goodship, Amanda Clarke, Amy Weinberg, Janelle Hardy, Sheila Jones, Sherry Bezanson, Julia Star, Victor Vesely, Margit Nellemann, Brock McLeod, Christine Fagan, Angelina and Debrajeenah, Tracey Hanson, Neil Newton ,Nicolette Genier and The Wonderful Staff at The Community Farm Store, Sheila Walmsley, David Coulson, Icel R Dobell, Rick Dennis, Sheila Badman,Vivi De Graff, Meghan Seal, Jean Crowder, Sue McKitrick & The Lovely Georgia Nicols.

We welcome your story ideas & photo submissions, however Cowichan Valley Voice Magazine reserves the right to omit and/or edit all submissions for space, clarity, content and style. The opinions expressed in Valley Voice Magazine do not necessarily reflect those of the editor, publishers or other contirbutors.

Valley Voice Magazine is distributed through 450 + select locations throughout the Cowichan Valley- Malahat, Mill Bay, Shawnigan Lake, Cherry Point, Duncan, Cowichan Bay, Crofton, Chemainus and Salt Spring Island and to Cowichan Lake, Ladysmith,Victoria, Tofino and from the Victoria International Airport Arrivals Hall.

Contact Adrienne Richards for information about 2013 Annual Marketing Term Specials Market your business to over 25,000 local readers in the Cowichan Valley!

Now Booking JANUARY ISSUE AD Deadline: DEC 18th 250 510 6596 adrienne@cowichanvalleyvoice.com

Our Community December Community Calendar of Events 6 Spark It Up - Local Sparklers for Your NYE Toast 16 New Year’s Eve Traditions from Birds Eye Cove 18 Paradise Not Yet Lost: The Peninsula of Maple Bay 20 A Fond Farewell To Toad Hall Emporium 22 Holiday Guide To Mindful Living 28 Shopping in Downtown Duncan 30 Enterprising Women Diane Brown 42 Community Farm Store Pages 44 - 46 All About Our Pets 47 World Metaphoric Therapy 48 From Barefoot To Gumboots 48 Websites, Emails and Verbal Lint 50 Crowder’s Corner 50 David Suzuki Science Matters 51 Cowichan Valley Directory 54-55

Local Food and Recipes Cowichan Eating with Bill Jones: Buy Cowichan 8 Cowichan Hazelnut Shortbread Bill Jones, Deerholme Farm 9 Island Farmhouse Poultry: Chicken & Hazelnut Pate 10 Potato Crostini With Smoked Fish, Susan Minette Duncan Garage Cafe 11 Maple and Hoisin Marinated Flank Steak, Bruce’s Kitchen 11 Delicious Baking Made Easy with Bake My Day 14 Taste of Tea 15 Halibut and Phyllo Purses, Cowichan Bay Seafoods 17 The Chefs Dedicated to Making It From Scratch 19 Local Menu Pages - Duncan Garage Bakery and Cafe 52 Farm & Garden Pages DIY Indoor Winter Herb Garden 7 On The Farm with Makaria Farm 36 Home & Design Christmas Lights 23 A Table At Its Centre 26 Designing Green: Storms Are A Comin’ 27 Art, Music, Theatre Shopping For Local Art at Imagine That 24 CRAFT Cowichan Valley Artisans 40 Talking Arts: Cowichan Valley Instrument Makers 41 Studio 2000 Belly Dancing 43 Travel, Recreation & Healthy Living Achieving Better Alignment with The Hellerwork Touch 34 108 Earthly Desires Celebration Meditation 36 Green Living: DIY Holiday Gift Giving 37 Cycle Therapy: Indoor Cycling 39 Local Winter Camping 49 Body, Mind & Soul Educating The Innovative Mind 371 Coach in Your Corner 49 December Horoscope with Georgia Nicols 53

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COMMUNITY CALENDAR

DECEMBER 2012 EVENTS

running to Dec 30

Gift of The Magi - Heartwarming Christmas Musical Chemainus Theatre Festival 1800 565-7738

9 9am -2pm

BC SPCA Crafts and Bake Sale 7550 Bell McKinnon Road

Dec 1 10am -2pm

Providence Farm Christmas Festival 1843 Tzouhalem Road Duncan 250 746-4204

9, 16,23 11am -3pm

Last Minute Christmas Craft Fair Clements Centre, 5856 Clements St off James

1 3-7pm

Cowichan Bay Sail Past Cowichan Bay Waterfront

1 10am - 4pm

Chemainus Christmas Event - Santa will be there Downtown Chemainus FREE

9 9am -2pm

Winter Harp where Christmas begins Cowichan Theatre , 2687 James Street, Duncan

1 11am - 9pm

Merridale’s 12 Days of Christmas Shopping Event Begins 1230 Merridale Road, Cobble Hill 250 743-4293

9 & 16 8am - 11am

Breakfast With Santa - Terrain Kitchen Oceanfront Suites at Cowichan Bay 250 715 1111

1 7pm

Neighbourhood Players presents Blood Relations Bay Film Studios 6759 Consindine Avenue, Maple Bay

12 11am -8pm

Last Day for 12 Days of Christmas Shopping Event 1430 1230 Merridale Road, Cobble Hill 250 743-4293

1 5 - 7pm

The Frances Kelsey Art Club hosted by Inspire! Shawnigan #4, 2740 Dundas Rd., Shawnigan Lake 250-732-6713

13 6 - 9pm

Ladies Night in Cowichan Bay Wine, Cheese, Giveaways great deals too! Cowichan Bay Waterfront, Cowichan Bay

1&2 11am -5pm

Christmas at Cowichan Valley Lavender 2349 Inverarity Rd, Duncan 250-701-2885

15 4 --5:30pm

Cowichan Country Christmas hosted by Kerry Park Skating Club 1035 Shawnigan Mill Bay Rd, Mill Bay

1&2 10am -5pm

Hilary Huntley Trial By Fire Pottery Show and Sale Clements Centre, 5856 Clements Street Duncan

15 3pm -6pm

Little Town Christmas and Santa Claus Parade (4pm) Chemainus, Waterwheel Park

1&2 10am -4pm

Lavender, Wine & Chocolate Event at Damali Farm 3500 Telegraph Road, Cobble Hill

15 5 -9pm

Christmas at Deerholme -West Coast Style Deerholme Farm 4830 Stelfox Rd, Duncan 250 748-7450

1&2 10am -4pm

6 Studio Artists Show and Sale 610 Oyster Bay Drive www.ladysmithwaterfrontgalley.com

15 & 16 10am -4 pm

The Full Basket!Christmas Event at Damali Damali Lavender Farm 3500 Telegraph Road, Cobble Hill

2 8 pm

Tower of Song: a Creative Tribute to the music of Leonard Cohen Duncan Garage Showroom 250 748-7246

15 2 - 4pm

Christmas Tea, Bake and Craft Sale 985 Shawnigan Mill Bay Rd., Mill Bay 250.743.4301

2, 9 & 16

Brunch with Santa Arbutus Ridge Golf Course, Reservations 250.743.5100

16 11am -4pm

Glenora Farm Christmas Fair Family Friendly FREE 4766 Waters Road, Duncan For info 250-715-1559

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Kaatza Lakeside Players presents“A Christmas Carol” 309 SouthShore Rd, Lake Cowichan Tix $12.50 / $10

17 7pm

Reel Alternatives: We Have a Pope Cowichan Theatre, Benefits CVHospice Services

5 -21

DBIA Find the Christmas Mascot Facebook Contest www.facebook.com/downtownduncan

21 7pm

An Evening of Winter Solstice Music - Family Friendly Duncan United Church, 246 Ingram st. $15/$20 kids $5

5 6am - 9am

Pancake Breakfast Food Drive Oceanfront Suites at Cowichan Bay 250 715 1111

23 All Day

Winter Wonderland Carnival 250-749-6742 Cowichan Lake Sports Arena, Lake Cowichan,

5 & 12 various

Ladies’ Day at Oilcheck Rembrandt Chocolate 2752 Beverly St Duncan, 250-748-1215

5,12,19,26 7-8pm

Christmas Brunch Oceanfront Suites at Cowichan Bay 250 715 111

Make Your Own Holiday Crystal Earrings Etc! 9747c Willow St, Chemainus, 250 324-2227

25 10am -2pm

6 7-10pm

Open Mike Night at the Hub in Cowichan Station 2375 Koksilah Rd hillbillymoose@hotmail.com

31 7-10pm

108 Earthly Desires NYE Meditation Celebration Nichiren Peace Center, For info call 250 710. 7594

7 *till-9pm 8&9

HOME Winter Solstice Exhibit & Open House 8350 Richards Trail, North Cowichan 250 748 3811

31 5:30pm 8:30pm

New Years Eve Celebrations at Amusé on The Vineyard Amusebistro@shaw.ca Reservations 250.743.3667

31 6pm $65 9pm $85

Genoa Bay Cafe NYE Chef Inspired 5/6 CourseTasting Menu Dinner 5000 Genoa Bay Road,, 250 746 7621

31 8 - 1pm

Birds Eye Cove NYE Dinner and Dance $30 5881 Genoa Bay Road, Duncan 250 748 6379

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NYE 3 Course Dinnerand Pairing at Merridale 1230 Merridale Road, Cobble Hill 250 743-4293

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NYE Dinner & Dance Oceanfront Suites at Cowichan Bay 250 715 1111

31st -1st 4pm -11am

OUR Children’s New Year Celebration 250 743 3067 1565 Baldy Mountain Rd., Shawnigan Lake

Christmas Late Night Shopping in Chemainus 7,14 & 21 open till 8pm Willow Street Merchants

7,14 & 21 10am -9pm

TeaFarm Open Late on Friday Evenings 8350 Richards Trail, North Cowichan 250 748 3811

7 -23 4:30pm

Christmas Steam Engine Train at Forest Discovery Centre BC Forest Discovery Centre 2892 Drinkwater Rd, Duncan

8 10am -3pm

Local Artisan Craft Fair Oceanfront Suites at Cowichan Bay 250 715 1111

8 10am - 1pm

Amnesty International “Write for Rights” The Bagel Street Cafe, 48 Station Street, Duncan

8 6pm doors

Cowichan Folk Guild Annual Christmas Potluck & Song Duncan United Church, 246 Ingram St Free for members

8&9 10am -4pm 8 &9 10am -5pm

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Out of Town Last Chance Christmas Craft Fair Mary Winspear Centre, Sidney Dec 8 & 9

•

Lavender, Wine & Cheese! Event at Damali Farm 3500 Telegraph Road, Cobble Hill

Jan 1 11am

12th Annual Maple Bay Polar Bear Swim Maple Bay Rowing Club, Maple Bay

•

Cloud 10 Christmas Sale on Merchandise 1529 Khenipsen Rd, Duncan 250 - 597 -3333

1 11am

GanTan Ceremony, Welcome 2013 Nichiren Peace Center 250. 10.7594 www.Viretreats.com

Cowichan Valley Voice Magazine - Eat, Drink and Buy Local This Holiday Season

DIY Indoor Herb Gift Garden

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hat better gift to share than an indoor herb garden for someone who likes to cook using fresh herbs.

Here’s what you need: Joy Story, helps • 4 - 4”or 6” Plastic pots people grow food!

• Bag of potting soil Check out her on-line Magazine • Seeds of Parsley, Cilantro, and Newsletter Dill, Basil (Note: Parsley is growfoodnetwork.com slower to germinate) • 4 labels, plastic or wooden popsicle sticks • Liquid fish fertilizer or small bag of worm castings • Plastic cover for pots

Available from Cherry Point Vineyards, The Worldly Gourmet, The Community Farm Store Ingredients: Health & Apple Cafe

rosettastonekitchenware.com for the cook who has everything

Best Location to Grow Herbs Indoors: • South facing window • Full spectrum light • Best indoors temperature 65 – 70 F (18 – 21 C) What to Do: • Fill pots with potting soil • Mist soil with water • Sprinkle seeds (less is better) over soil, and lightly press down on seeds to make contact with the soil.

• Cover with ¼” of soil • Mist soil again •Place pots in plastic bag or with cover until seeds germinate, then remove plastic and allow to grow • Water lightly • Once the plants are growing nicely, fertilize with fish fertilizer or sprinkle worm castings over soil.

Notes:

• If using garden soil or compost, insects can become a problem. Yellow sticky tabs will be needed to catch bugs that come out of the soil.

• The full spectrum light is placed directly over the plants to prevent them from stretching up towards the light.

• Other herbs that can be grown from seed but are slower to grow include: rosemary, oregano, sage, thyme. These plants are easier to start by taking cuttings.

My favourite holiday treat! Pear and Brie Foccacia from Saison’s Bakery - Sandra Beggs, Cycle Therapy Bikes Duncan

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here is a nice graphic making the rounds of social media these days.

In essence it urges people to make a pledge to support local businesses this holiday season.

This is a concept we at the farm have been living for the past dozen years. Local purchasing is a powerful tool that has ripple effects in the local economy. When we look at the effects of buying local we have to look at more than just numbers. Buying local goods is also an emotional act. It should ultimately make you feel good buying products from your friends and neighbours. That might be just as important as any cash that changes hands.

Cowichan

EATING Buy Cowichan

Of course you can also go into details like food security, dependence on foreign regulations and the dangers of feeding support local producers (at any level) in giant corporations. The reality is that your shopping, it will make a big impact (barring a global realignment of our on the community you live in. If your economic systems), we are well down budget is tight, you can always plan to the path of globalization. Like many make something with your own hands things in life there are good and bad using local products. How about making results from our journey. I believe that some home made shortbread laced with buying local products help build local local hazelnuts or bake some sugar communities. If cookies with a dollop of local jam. Every we can encourage year on the farm we create treats for small businesses, giving out to friends and colleagues. This entrepreneurs year we created a homemade mustard and local flavoured producers, we Dine with Bill at with rosehips are basically and a Deerholme Farm this investing in spice rub the future December! created with wellbeing Deerholme Farm will be ground wild of our offering a special holiday mushrooms communities. themed dinner using local and spices.

It sometimes products on December 15th.

If your not does take a From the proceeds will be so creatively little more making a food donation inclined – effort and to the Cowichan Food just head expense to Bank (more info at www. downtown source these deerholme.com) to the local local products, farmers like any market and investment it will let our local producers creativity shine take time to realize for you. You will be creating smiles the results. This and building a better community in the holiday season, process. we will all be purchasing foods, Bill Jones is an author, chef and food gifts and products consultant who can at some point. be found at If you pledge to Deerholme.com

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Teas from Tea Farm and Harmonic Arts - Andrea Jones R.N.C.P Nutritional Matters

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s

d

Cowichan Hazelnut Shortbread

To remove the skins from the hazelnuts, roast in an oven until browned and fragrant. Remove from the oven and place warm in a kitchen towel. Bunch up the towel and rub the bundle against a tabletop.This will loosen the skins from many of the nuts. Remove the cleaned hazelnuts and discard the skins.

Recipe courtesy Bill Jones, Deerholme Farm

Amounts

Ingredients

1 cup (250 mL) 1 cup (250 mL) 1/2 tsp (2.5 mL) 1/2 tsp (2.5 mL) 1/2 cup (125 mL)

hazelnuts all-purpose flour baking powder salt butter, room

temperature 1/3 cup (80 mL) sugar 1 egg 1 tsp (5 mL) pure vanilla extract 4 oz (about 100 g) dark or milk chocolate

Method

Place hazelnuts on baking sheet. Bake until they turn a golden colour. Watch this process carefully as it is very easy to burn the nuts. It should take no more than 10 minutes to roast the nuts. Remove from oven and set aside to cool.

Place hazelnuts in blender or food processor and pulse to a coarse meal; set aside.Whisk together flour, baking powder, and salt to blend; set aside.

In a mixer, beat butter and sugar together until smooth. Add the egg and vanilla, beat to a smooth consistency. Gradually add the flour mixture into the butter mixture, pulsing to just mix the batter. Add the chopped hazelnuts and gently mix until distributed evenly.

Form into small balls and place on a greased cookie sheets (or line sheet with parchment paper or a silicon baking mat).

Flatten each cookie with the palm of your hand or spatula.

Reduce oven heat to 325 F (165 C), Bake until firm, about 10 -12 minutes. Remove from oven and cool on racks.

Break up chocolate and place in a microwavable bowl. Heat for 1 minute and stir. If chocolate is not melted, heat for 15 second intervals until the chocolate has just melted and is smooth. Spoon or drizzle a little chocolate onto each cookie.

Allow to cool before removing to a storage container.

Annual Cowichan Bay Sail Past

December 1st 3 - 7pm Cowichan Bay Waterfront

ing up the village with holiday cheer, while you enjoy family activities and a free cup of cocoa.

Cowichan Bay Village Presents the annual Sail Past, December 1st from 3-7.

Come see a beautiful display of Christmas lights on the boats as they sail past in the bay. Merchant’s will be lightVintage gardening equipment from CGC’s Garden Pantry Thrift Store - Rick Juliusson, FreeRange Consulting

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“It’s fresher from here”

In a hurry?

Ready to heat prepared Crab Cakes, Chowders and Seafood also available in store!

Chicken and Hazelnut Pate

Holiday Entertaining Made Easy with Freshly Prepared Seafood Appetizers and Finger Foods

Made FRESH to order

• Albacore Tataki • Prawn Spring Rolls • Salmon Pinwheels • Fresh Halibut Ceviche Bowls and MORE! For a small family gathering or a large event, we will make your selections fresh to order and ready for pick up.

For more info or to place an order call us at 250 748 0020

Many chicken recipes use pistacios.

Since hazelnuts grow on Vancouver Island I thought I’d give them a try. The flavors go great together and it’s economical too!

Amount 6 boneless and skinless 1 small clove 1/2 small 1 tablespoon 1/4 teaspoon 1/4 teaspoon 1/2 teaspoon 1 teaspoon 2 slices 2 Tablespoon 1 cup 2/3 cup (roasted)

Ingredients Island Farmhouse Chicken thighs garlic onion chopped butter pepper nutmeg dried tarragon salt good deli ham Cognac Island Farms Whipping Cream Vancouver Island Hazelnuts

Method

Preheat oven to 325F. Melt butter in sauce pan on medium heat and add onions, cook until transparent but not brown, add garlic and cook until just slightly browned. Cut thighs into 1 inch pieces and place in food processor and pulse 3 - 4 times. Add rest of ingredients except for nuts, cream and ham. Blend throughly slowly add cream until well blended. Roughly chop Hazelnuts and ham. Add half the nuts and all the ham and pulse 3 - 4 times. Add the rest of the nuts and mix well by hand. Pack mixture into a buttered loaf pan and cook for 1 1/2 to 2 hours. Cool overnight in refrigerator, slice in 1/4” slices and serve with grainy mustard, your favorite preserves and bagette or crackers.

1615 Koksilah Road Cowichan Bay BC 250-746-6163 • www.farmhousepoultry.ca Chicken available from Country Grocer, 49th Parallel, Duncan Butcher, Chemainus Foods, Crofton Foods and Thrifty Foods

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Fabulous food at the Cow Cafe in Cowichan Bay - Debbie Shkuratoff, Reiki Wellness

Potato Crostini with Smoked Salmon or Tuna Courtesy Susan Minette of the Duncan Garage Cafe and Bakery This recipe is intended to garnish an appetizer or main course.

Amount Potato Ingredients 4 Baking Potatoes 2 Tbsp olive oil 1 tsp Salt 1/2 tsp fresh pepper 1 Tbsp fresh thyme, rosemary and parsley (1/4 tsp if you only have dried)

Amount Dressing Ingredients 3/4 cup sour cream or yogurt or combination 1 Tbsp horseradish 1/2 tsp pepper 2 Tbsp fresh chives or arugula or dill 8 oz.

smoked fish

Method Slice potatoes into round that are about 1/2 inch.

Combine all other ingredients and toss with potatoes Bake potatoes in single layer in 400 F oven for 40 ish minutes (Turn potatoes half way through) until nice and crispy Combine above dressing ingredients.

Place sour cream mixture on potato and top with fish.

Garnish with fresh herbs. Serve cold or at room temp.

Walkabout The Salt Spring Market

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his month I was asked for simple holiday hor d’ouevres.

Like anything it is easier to just buy the latest big box flavours of whatever you’d like and call it a day. On the other hand it is not much harder to source a few local, quality ingredients and have some fun.

The hor d’ouevres here represent all that is good about snacking.

Ideally a cocktail nosh should have a little fat, a little salt and a little acid. (not the recreational variety, that could lead to those sort of shenanigans we read about in the tabloids).

This balance of flavours goes

well with most cocktails and wines and gets those gastric juices going for the meal to follow. If you wish you could substitute smoked tofu for the beef in the skewers, the hoisin marinade goes very well with tofu.

My staff and I at Bruce’s Kitchen would like to wish everyone a happy holiday season and we hope the New Year brings good fortune for all.

Bruce Wood is chef/ owner of Bruce’s Kitchen in Ganges on beautiful Salt Spring Island. www.bruceskitchen.ca

Maple and Hoisin Marinated Flank Steak

Recipe courtesy Bruce Wood, Bruce’s Kitchen, Salt Spring Island Amount Ingedients 8 oz.

Hoisin Sauce 1/4 Cup Dark Soya Sauce 1/4 Cup Maple Syrup 1 tbsp.

Brown Sugar 1/2 tsp.

Chinese five spice powder * or Ground Anise 2 tbsp.

Catsup 1” piece Fresh Ginger, minced 3 Garlic Cloves, minced Combine all ingredients and mix to combine. Place in a clean container, cover and refrigerate until needed.The sauce will keep for a week refrigerated.

To cook the flank steak ~ One piece of flank steak 1/2 Cup of the reserved marinade 1 teaspoon white sesame seeds

NEW LOCATION and LIQUOR LICENSE! 3106-115 Fulford-Ganges Rd in Grace Point Square, Salt Spring Island

Hours of Operation Tues-Sat 11:30-3pm / 5:30 to close (+/-9) Sunday 11:30am-2pm / 5:30-close Monday Lunch only 11:30am - 3pm Reservations or Take Out 250 931 3399

Flank steak is very tasty cut of beef that needs to be marinated overnight in order to be tender. Place the flank steak in a glass dish and pour over one half cup of the marinade. Cover and refrigerate overnight.The next day remove from the fridge and cook on a pre heated BBQ on medium high for 5 minutes per side. Remove from the BBQ and let rest 5 minutes.Thinly slice the flank and thread onto wooden skewers. Brush with a little of the reserved marinade and shower with the sesame seeds. * Chinese Five Spice mixture - ground star anise, ground cloves, ground cinnamon, ground huajiao (Sichuan pepper) and ground fennel seeds

Prime Rib Night at the Cowichan Valley Inn is the best... Kenzie Cuthbert, Cowichan River Wilderness Lodge

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on the farm

With Makaria Farm

P

eople often ask me if I do any winter farming. I’m never sure exactly how to answer this because I don’t technically grow food in the winter, but I do harvest food that I’ve grown through the fall. One of the most underappreciated vegetables that we can grow for winter harvest in the Cowichan Valley is kohlrabi, which actually gets sweeter as the

weather gets colder. We just had the temperature drop to almost four degrees below zero the other night and the kohlrabi doesn’t show it at all. But the flavour is now much less peppery and much sweeter than in the summer. It reminds me a bit of a crunchy honeydew melon.

Image; Heather McLeod

Kohlrabi is versatile in the kitchen, easy to grow and stores well. The best way to eat it is raw. Cut it into cubes or sticks and serve with cut vegetables, such as carrot sticks and cauliflower florets. It makes a great addition to a salad or cole slaw grated or sliced thinly like radishes. Our favourite way to cook kohlrabi is roasting, with potatoes, beets, onions, garlic and winter squash, drizzled with oil.

You can also steam it if you’re in a hurry or throw it into a stirfry.

Kohlrabi is in the same family as broccoli (it is essentially an enlarged broccoli stem) and is grown the same way. We transplant 4 to 5 week old seedlings and give them at least one square foot each of space, but for the winter crop, give them about 2 square feet each for the largest bulbs. The leaves can get as long as my arm! Aim to get your seedlings transplanted in the last week of July. If you use a jumbo variety, such as Kossak or Superschmeltz, they will

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simply keep getting larger into the winter. We were sampling some 3 pounders today at the Community Farm Store and they were as tender and sweet as any kohlrabi we grow. You can leave them in the garden until you need them, or harvest them and store in a cold place for many weeks.

So if you’re looking to do some winter gardening next year, or winter harvesting at least, give kohlrabi a try.

Brock and Heather McLeod run a high-quality CSA and Food Security Club at Makaria Farm.www. makariafarm.com

Duncan Garage Bakery’s Cinnamon Bread! Get in early it sells out fast - Cindy Jolin, Genoa Bay Cafe

gifts from the heart of

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the saltspring countryside

$14 .95

by hand

Have a Cranberry Christmas

family made since 1979

269 Craig Street Downtown Duncan

Tel (250) 746-5454

Catch Reid Williams and Kelly Girvan at the Old Firehouse Wine Bar. The best! - Mara Cain, Cycle Therapy Bikes Duncan

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Delicious Baking Made EASY For You

Black Forest

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t long last a company that specializes in tarts and deep dish fruit pies in both regular and delicious gluten free pastry.

“Without a doubt, our proudest accomplishment is the gluten free pastry we make. Through trial and error and many, many taste tests, we’ve blended what we believe to be the best GLUTEN FREE flour mix available. While I was ‘test driving’ the pastry, most people could not tell which pastry was gluten free, including some local Chefs and restaurateurs. The number of people we meet who battle to find affordable, good tasting gluten free products provide us with constant motivation.” shares Dale Norton of Bake My Day a local company dedicated to providing fabulous pastries, made to order fruit pies and more. “All of our tarts are deep dish creations, based on combinations of flavours we love. Our peanut butter cup is a deep dish pastry cup, filled with a fudgey chocolate filling, topped with a scrumptious whipped peanut butter ganache and finished with a sprinkling of freshly chopped peanuts.”

For those looking for delicious Holiday treats, Dale and Alan will also be baking • Full Hair and Esthetics Services • Joico hair color and products

Join us for a relaxing ZEN EXPERIENCE • Natural Sugaring Hair Removal • Onsite Gel Nail Artist • All natural facials & peels

Gift certificates available.

Give the gift of pampering

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Butter Tart

Chocolate Peanut Butter

Christmas Fruit Mince

Lemon Curd Chocolate Orange

Christmas fruit mince tarts, Christmas cake filled with fruit and nuts and soaked in brandy available in an assortment of sizes and a new signature Orange Cup, a deep dish pastry cup filled with a smooth orange curd and topped with a whipped chocolate orange ganache. And best yet all of these treats will be available in both regular and gluten free!

Their tarts and pies range in price from $8 for a regular 6 pack of tarts to about $18 for a few of

the specialty pies.

Their special Bake My Day Gluten Free All Purpose flour blend is available for $7 per kilo. To order visit www.bakemyday.ca.

Pick up can be arranged from their home. If you can’t wait a selection of their gluten free products are available at Power Lunch and the Cowichan Valley Inn.

Tourtière at Saison Bakery only there at Christmastime - Heather Kaye, Cowichan Green Community

Tea pickers in Darjeeling, West Bengal,India

Taste of Tea Margit and Victor create an eclectic experience of tea+art+nature. www.teafarm.ca

Since its inception on December 15th 2005, International Tea Day has been celebrated around the world with the intention of bringing awareness to the impact of the global tea trade on workers, small growers and consumers around the world. As the tea industry continues to experience tremendous growth, it is important that traditions, quality and meaning are not lost.

When we began our tea growing experiment in May of 2010 we were not sure how it would turn out. Despite a recent set back with deer

having discovered that our tea is developing a nice flavour profile, we continue to work on bringing our plants into production.

One of the reasons tea is not widely grown in North America is due to the price of land and the labour costs of harvesting and processing.

Our goal is to share our passion for tea and invite people to experience tea growing on a small scale in our region, create tea culture events and be a local source for quality organic loose leaf tea.

Teafarm co-creator and ceramic artist Margit Nellemann will be drawing for one of her funky handbuilt clay teapots in honour of the day. Margit has given away a teapot for the past

five years to raise awareness of the working conditions for tea pickers around the world. Choosing organic tea ensures that workers and their families on smaller estates are not being exposed to harmful chemicals and pesticides. Wages and living conditions are improving with the increased demand for hand picked artisan loose tea.

We invite you to share tea with us on Saturday December 15th at the farm. If you cannot make it, you can celebrate wherever you are with a cup of organic tea. For more information and to sign up for Margit’s teapot draw go to www.teafarm.ca or www.margitnellemann.com.

Return to a clean home and workplace.

Giving you back the luxury of time and a naturally clean home to enjoy it in!

Providing professional, eco friendly cleaning services.

250 929 8381 www.cleanchoicecleaners.com Licensed - Insured - Bonded

Home Cleaning Gift Certificates available for Family & Friends!

Rock Cod Café with the family for Fish Tacos - Anthony Windsor, Cycle Therapy Bikes Duncan

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Jim Moody of Zanatta Vineyards riddling Glenora Fantasia. Every day the wine is given a quarter turn to bring the sediment into the neck of the bottle prior to degorgement.

This can take anywhere from 2 to 4 weeks depending on a number of variables.

Spark It Up - Local Sparklers For Your NYE Toast The cool temperatures in the northern area of the infamous Champagne district in France are very similar to the climate here in the Cowichan Valley making our pocket of Vancouver Island an ideal place to produce sparkling wines.

Prosecco. I loved the product and the detail of working champagne method as well.

“Our region here has a very similar climate to Valdobbiadene and area. I knew it could work. Our first sparkler was Glenora Fantasia, 1990.”

Zanatta Vineyards Zanatta Vineyards, a family run vineyard in Glenora understood this potential 30 years ago and was the first Island winery to experiment with a local sparkling.

“My father, Dennis Zanatta, began an experimental vineyard with the provincial government during the huge transition of “free trade” (80’s). The Okanagan was pulling out the American varieties in favour of the vinifera (common European grape). My father always believed we could grow good wine grapes commercially on the island”. shares Loretta Zanatta

Today, Zanatta offers 5 unique bottles of locally produced bubbly perfect for your NYE toast. “Presently all of our sparklers are made using the Champagne method. This means that every bottle is refermented in the bottle. Then you must degorge (remove the sediment). Zanatta grows a variety of grapes for their sparklers from non traditional Cayuga grapes for the Glenora Fantasia and Pinot Noir/ Chardonnay for their Tradizionale. All of the grapes used for their wines are 100% estate grown at their Glenora vineyard.

Minimum age for their sparklers is 18 months. Look for their Glenora Fantasia, made from Cayuga grapes, Allegria, a rose, made with Pinot Noir grapaes, Fatima,

“While I was in Italy I worked under a Spumante House in the doc region of

made from Pinot Gris grapes, Tradizionale made from Pinot Noir grapes and Taglio Rosso - made from Castel and Cabernet Sauvignon (kitchen killer red) Rocky Creek Winery From corporate suits to gumboots Rocky Creek Winery proprietors Linda and Mark Holford, a 3rd generation winemaker, first began growing grapes in Ladysmith

For full It design/build service,Sparkling give us a call Spark Up! Local Wines to  250.746.5372 • coulsondesign@shaw.ca • www.davidcoulsondesign.com  16

I love the Bibimbap at Chemainus Sushi To Go - Lara Bruschot, Spinning Ninny, Cowichan Bay

with VQA classification for higher production. After a few trial years, they recognized their desire to stay true to the region, eventually finding their perfect spot in Cowichan Bay with abilities to developing wines from 100% Island grown grapes. Sparklings were added one challenging year when their vines would not produce the quality they wanted. After some research Mark and Linda discovered that beautifully developed, higher acidity grapes make world class sparklings. “So we decided to try.” Linda adds “We found a new technology where we can do the traditional method of sparkling made with Pinot Gris yeast and sugar; without having to spend the time riddling and turning all the bottles so the yeast goes down the neck.” Rocky Creek’s first sparkling, Katherine’s Sparkle made with Ortega, Gewurztraminer and Bacchus grapes debuted in 2008. They also offer Jubilee a blush sparkling made with Pinot Gris and Pinot Noir grapes.

“Our sparklings were top picks last year for Christmas” Linda shares proudly “Troy Townsin host of CBC radio’s Time for Wine described Rocky Creek as “becoming one of BCs top sparkling wine producers” most recently the vineyard earned a 89 and 90 for their 2 sparklings from Canada’s most prolific wine columnist John Schreiner.

Salt Spring Vineyards Salt Spring Vineyards, located in the Fulford Valley on Salt Spring Island offers a Canadian Wine Access Award winning bubbly called Karma, that uses a classic

combination of Pinot Noir and Chardonnay grapes done in the traditional méthode champenoise. “Our Karma sits on the lees for 2 years at which time it is disgorged and a dosage is added that is unique to each vintage, this is a fun and interesting time for all of us as we taste and decide for the final result.

Karma is crisp and dry with lovely, green apple and citrus notes.” says Heidi of Salt Spring Vineyards.

• Cowichan Valley Wine Tour • Salt Spring Island Tour

1 866.383.1466 switchbridgetours@shaw.ca www.switchbridgetours.com

We dedicate ourselves to buying locally produced food and handcrafted gifts - don’t forget to add bottles of locally grown wines and sparklers to that local list of sustainability.

Every choice you make to support a

LIVE CRAB • FRESH FISH • LOCAL SHELL FISH AND MORE!

Halibut Phyllo Purses Amount

Elite Electric Bike Tours

Venturi Schulze Vineyards Venturi Schulze Vineyards in Cobble Hill offers Sole Rosso a dry, ruby red bottlefermented semisparkling created from Pinot Noir and Zweigelt grapes.

Open Tuesday to Sunday 10:00 am to 6:00 pm, Closed Mondays

Ingredients

½ lb 3 sheets ¼ cup

halibut fillet, skin off phyllo pastry melted butter

Salt & pepper to taste

producer in your community has an impact three times it’s value.

Method Cut halibut into 9 equal pieces. These should be roughly 1” cubes.

Sprinkle lightly with salt and pepper Lay out one sheet of phyllo on a flat surface and brush lightly with melted butter.

Place second and third sheets on top of first, brushing each sheet with butter.

With a sharp knife, divide phyllo into thirds horizontally and vertically.

Place a cube of halibut on each piece of phyllo, gathering the pastry around the fish and pinching it closed, to resemble a drawstring purse.

Bake in 400 degree oven for approx. 5 minutes until fluted edges of pastry are golden.

1751 Cowichan Bay Rd, Cowichan Bay

Cowichan Bay Seafoods

250-748-0020 E-mail: info@cowichanbayseafood.com

I love the fruit and nut almond granola from the Duncan Garage Cafe, Chelsey Toth, Silvifor Resource Consultants

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NYE Traditions From Birds Eye Cove

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anadians have an infinity for honouring tradition when it comes to holiday celebration.

New Year’s Eve is no exception.

Here’s a short overview of where some of today’s celebration practices originated.

The Scots traditionally celebrate Hogmanay which continues today. The celebration is to welcome friends and strangers, with warm hospitality and a kiss to wish everyone a Guid New Year. The underlying belief however is that it clears out the vestiges of the old year, giving a clean break and welcoming in a young New Year on a happy note. “First footing” (the “first foot” in the house after midnight) is also still common in Scotland. To ensure good luck for the house, the first foot should be male, dark (believed to be a throwback to the Viking days when blond strangers arriving on your doorstep meant trouble) and should bring symbolic coal, shortbread, salt, black bun and whisky. These days, however, whisky and perhaps shortbread are the only items still prevalent.

Christmas Events

December 1 & 2 - Lavender, Wine & Chocolate!

Featuring ‘Lavender Cream Chocolates’ from ‘Rembrandts’.

And dark chocolate paired with blackberry & lavender wine!

December 8 & 9 - Lavender, Wine & Cheese!

Featuring Hilary’s cheese & Quist sausage paired with Damali Wines & samples of lavender preserves.

December 15 & 16 – The Full Basket! – Wine pairings, Lavender Preserves, Chocolate & Cheese! The grand finale, Ho Ho Ho! Damali Lavender & Winery 3500 Telegraph Rd, Cobble Hill 250 743-4100 www.damali.ca

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The traditional New Year ceremony of yesteryear in Scotland would involve people dressing up in the hides of cattle and running around the village being hit by sticks. The festivities would also include the lighting of bonfires, rolling blazing tar barrels down the hill and tossing torches. Animal hide was also wrapped around sticks and ignited which produced a smoke that was believed to be very effective to ward off evil spirits. The Scottish Poet, Robert Burns (whose life and accomplishments we toast on the 25th of January each year) was responsible for writing “Auld Lang Syne” sadly which was first published only after his death in 1796. Translated, the title means ‘Old Long Time’.

Singing of this song at Midnight was made instantly popular by

Guy Lombardo and the Royal Canadians and has been adopted as tradition around the world.

Making noise at Midnight on New Year’s Eve when the clock strikes midnight has long been a tradition. It is believed that the loud noise scares away evil spirits. So, ringing in the new year will ensure a year free from evil.

Making a toast at midnight has been a tradition since the very first tankard was raised.

On New Year’s Eve glasses are lifted to honor friends and bless the past and future. The clinking of glasses was added in medieval times because a good toast was believed to repel the devil, and noise would send evil spirits scurrying. The traditional Midnight Kiss is something many look forward to. It is believed that if you do not kiss someone as you usher in the New Year, you will be destined for a year of coldness and lack of affection.

While researching the origins of New Year’s traditions, this interesting one was uncovered; in Argentina and Brazil people wear red underwear if they are seeking ‘love’ and yellow for ‘money’.

If you wear white underwear, ‘peace’ is a priority. So what will a Cowichan Valley New Year’s Eve party feature? Certainly the midnight toast, kiss and singing of ‘Auld Lang Syne’. It’s not likely that you will find folks dressed up in cow hides running around the valley being beaten with sticks, nor do we anticipate barrels of tar, lite on fire to be rolled down the hills. To be certain though, the only way you will know for sure, is to plan on gathering and bring in the New Year with friends old and new.

Submitted by Lynn Shortt of Birds Eye Cove Farm.

Unsworth Vineyard’s Port style Ovation - Ceramic Artist Margit Nellemann, Margit Nellemann Gallery

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t m s t d s e d d t d

A B b u f M k f N a i l b w y g q k

3 Chefs Dedicated to Making It From Scratch

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andmade, local, from scratch - these are the words coming out of merridale’s bistro kitchen this season. Every little thing - all the bread, pasta, soups, sauces, dressing, cured meats, and smoked cheese – the list is endless. With a team of 3 new dynamic chef’s on the go, diners in the bistro have been tasting delicious, creative new dishes paired with their ciders.

A native of Australia, head chef Benni Kelly was inspired to become a chef because of the universal language he believes food to be. His menus at Merridale incorporate the food knowledge that he has learned from cooking in Australia, New Zealand, Southeast Asia, and now Canada. The kitchen in Benni’s lead is dedicated to local, seasonal products. “I believe in building relationships with the farmer’s because then you know how the food is grown. Plus I get the limited quantity “gems” this way. You know, the unusual vegetables

that allow your imagination to go wild.” shares Benni. He has been incorporating many of merridale’s cider products into dressings, mustards, drizzles, reductions and soups leading his team into the wonderful world of cider touched food.

House of Knives award winning sous chef, Ian Blom brings a great respect for ingredients to merridale’s menu.”Understanding, and respecting where ingredients come from is the quickest way to success in the kitchen, and is the best piece of advice any cook can learn.” says Ian. Born and raised in Duncan, his repertoire includes the River Café, Calgary and most recently cooking at Stage Wine Bar in Victoria. It was here under George Szasa that he learned classical cooking methods and preparation of charcuterie, sausage making, salami and more. Visitors will see Ian’s authentic Italian influences on the dinner menu and his hand made

pastas, served often with rich traditional sauces have already been tantalizing new customers. Without many outlets for rustic, Italian food in the Valley, his menu additions have been welcomed with open mouths.

Native Nova Scotian Kimberly MacDonald grew up surrounded by farms. “I come from a family of cooks and bakers. Both my grandmothers were always in the kitchen either at home or in a community/professional setting making everything from fresh bread and rolls to traditional Haggis. It was in these roots

I began my love for the kitchen.” Her food experience ranges from across Canada, beginning in Nova Scotia, to Calgary to Victoria. A Red Seal certified chef, Kim has been experimenting with ciders and local produce for a new product line for the merridale food store. “I love being able to pick fresh herbs or veggies from the garden myself to create a delicious dish based on what they offer me. And chili’ too -everything is good with a little zing!”

Watch for her Merri Berri, Black Pepper Jam and Cyser, Rosemary Jam.

new at merridale! now serving traditional, rustic italian specialties in the bistro. handmade pasta made fresh daily in our kitchen, slow cooked risotto, artisan pizzas, house cured meats and gourmet smokehouse features friday and saturday evenings from 5pm

*holiday special coupon* 3 courses for $19.99 dinner served on Friday or Saturday night from 5pm lunch served monday - saturday noon - 3pm sunday brunch from 10:30am - 3pm

merridale ciderworks • 250.743.4293 visit www. merridalecider.com for sample menus and reservations

* coupon offer cannot be combined with other discounts, valid to December 29th, no cash value

han enjoy traditional, rustic italian at the bistro 19 fresh

Bona Dea Cafe’s soup and cornbread, Amanda Reimer, Cowichan Green Community

cured mea

of Maple Bay. The land is a sacred wilderness, so sacred and rare that last year private donations and funding from The Land Conservancy and CVRD made possible the creation of Sansum Narrows Park. Suddenly it is at risk. A road has been approved that will irrevocably change this wilderness. It will either be developed for profit or it will be protected for public use and preservation of natural habitat.

The voters of North Cowichan have less than a month to decide the outcome of a complicated issue. It’s not enough time for the information to be assimilated. It took a few billion years to create The Peninsula, we’re asking for a few months to debate its’ demise.

Image Icel Dobell: Save the peninsula of Maple Bay

Paradise Not Yet Lost Only when the last tree has died and the last river been poisoned and the last fish been caught will we realize we cannot eat money.

T

his Cree Proverb sums up what’s happening on The Peninsula

To buy this time, 10% of North Cowichan electors must sign an Elector Response Form. It must be submitted to the Municipality by 2 p.m. on December 14th, 2012. Forms can be downloaded off the Municipal website www. northcowichan.ca and are available at the Municipal Hall north of town, (7030 TransCanada Highway). They are also available on our blog http:// roadlesspeninsula.wordpress.com/ or at The Community Farm Store. The only persons entitled to sign the forms are

North Cowichan Voters Have The Final Say North Cowichan electors.

A group of citizens, who have come together as The Road Less Traveled Committee, took out an ad in the papers to put forward some of the information.

It can be found on our blog, as above, or for those who have never blogged, google: roadless peninsula. Here you’ll find information including all points of view, (as fast as we can get it all posted), and how you can get involved.

If the public votes against the change to the road, it will then be possible to demand a public task force be created to conceive a long-term plan for The Peninsula, including thoughtful consideration for the preservation of this extraordinary land. If we have learnt anything from the experience of Mt. Tzouhalem and other developments that have happened in our valley, The Peninsula is our opportunity to make amends, if not to clear our collective conscience, then to do what is right.

Icel Jane Dobell is caretaker of Paddy’s Milestone in Maple Bay and lives there with her partner, “R,” a Dutch farmer.

The 16 Days of Activism Against Gender Violence

is a global campaign calling for the elimination of all forms of violence against women highlighting significant dates.

DECEMBER 6TH National Day of Remembrance & Action on Violence Against Women

Raise Awareness! about violence against women Fund Raise!

to support local anti-violence services

Support Men! working to end violence against women

Duncan United Church (Ingram St.) Dec. 6th at 6pm

Join us for a gathering marking the anniversary of the1989 Ecole Polytechnique Massacre in which 14 women were singled out for their gender and murdered.

Cowichan Women Against Violence Society

find out how you can support local activities

www.cwav.org

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I always to to the Duncan Garage for atmosphere and the great food - David Beggs, Cycle Therapy Bikes Duncan

National Day of Remembrance and Action on Violence Against Women December 6 6-8pm Duncan United Church Ingram Street, Duncan www.cwav.org

Fall is a time of the year that seems the easiest to be altruistic. Between Thanksgiving and Christmas there are many additional occasions to reflect on the gifts that bless our lives, ones that are often taken for granted. Acknowledging these gifts sometimes means opening ourselves up to documented tragedies of our collective history.

On November 11th we acknowledge our freedom by remembering the loss of life it cost during WW2. On December 6th Cowichan Women Against Violence is asking members of the community to come together to reflect on the

Last Chance Christmas Craft Fair 2012 Out Of The Rain Dec 8th - 9th Mary Winspear Centre 2243 Beacon Avenue Sidney, BC www.firstandlastchance.ca

Nestled in the quaint ocean side town of Sidney, discover First & Last Chance 2012 at the Mary Winspear Center, the perfect place to induldge in an exceptional Christmas shopping experience with over 25 categories of unique West Coast hand crafted items to choose from. “Out Of

ongoing struggle to eliminate violence against women by remembering the 14 women killed at L’ecole Polytechnique in 1989.

This event, an evening of music, poetry, film, speakers and discussion, is apart of the global 16 days of activism to end gendered violence campaign, which encourages individuals to take actions in their personal lives. Although CWAV encourages individuals to take action between November 25th and December 10th to end violence (visit www.cwav.com for more information), the 6th is all about community. It is an opportunity for women and men to come together to celebrate life free of violence, through awareness, action, empowerment and remembrance. There will be a spoken word open mic on the theme of the event. For more information contact Jen Holden at feathervoices@ gmail.com.

The Rain”is Sidney’s Beacon Community Service that Supports Youth Shelters In Partnership with Last Chance Christmas Craft Fair. In addition to 80+ juried artisans, unique handcrafted gifts, glorious food, live entertainment and hourly give-a-ways, Vancouver Island Artist Barb Trowbridge as we support “Out Of The Rain” Youth Shelters.Patrons are invited to paint along with Barb as she creates a large original piece to raffle off at the end of the fair. It is all for a great cause and all proceeds go directly to “Out Of The Rain”

Christmas Fair at Glenora Farm Sunday December 16th from 11 am - 4 pm 4766 Waters Rd, Duncan, www.glenorafarm.org 250-715-1559

Katherine and Trisha prepare a felted wallhanging for the fair.

Glenora Farm Annual Christmas Fair

Sunday December 16 11 am - 4 pm 4766 Waters Road, Duncan www.glenorafarm.org 250-715-1559 Glenora Farm recreates the true Christmas magic, when things were simpler and gifts came from the heart; our big house will surround you with the scent of evergreens, the warmth of home-cooked food, the light of candles and the hauntingly beautiful music and songs of Christmas. There will be gifts galore, all handmade by local crafters - beeswax candles, handweaving, crystals, jewellery, toys, musical instruments, children’s

clothing, artwork, herbal and beautifully scented body care products. There will be storytelling or a puppet show for the children, and an Aladdin’s cave hung with beautifully decorated Christmas cookies to take home.

Our Christmas fair will send you home warmed through and carrying a spark of the Christmas light with you. We look forward to welcoming you!

Mystique, Teafarm Tea and Saison Bakery - Maeve Maguire, Describe Writing

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Dianne in the store. Photo taken in the early 90’s

* Toad Hall Emporium

Chemainus Health Food

9738 A Willow Street 250 246-4400 CLOSED FOR RETIREMENT

9738 Willow Street 250 246-9838 Natural Grocery, Vitamins, Hemp Fashions

Saltspring Soapworks

9748 Willow Street 250 324-2226 Handmade Soaps, Natural Body Care

Eliza Hemingway Art & Antiques 9756C Willow Street 250 416-0363

* Utopia Bakery

Etc.

A-9780 Willow Street 250 246-9992 Artisan Bread and European Pastries

9747 Willow Street 250 324-2227 Beads and Beading Classes

See You Soon!

*

A Fond Farewell to Toad Hall Emporium

We Accept Chemainus Dollars

Come to Chemainus; where the people are friendly and the parking is free! Enjoy shopping, excellent eateries, live music, professional theatre and special events.

COME FOR A DAY OR MAKE IT A GETAWAY.

T

oad Hall Emporium was a Willow St landmark for both visitors and residents of Chemainus. Readers may have noticed their closed doors - but don’t fret! Dianne and Neil have happily retired!

The couple have plans to travel and discover more of Canada. Here is a peek into their beginnings on Willow Street.

During a trip to Vancouver for Expo 86, Dianne and Neil were urged by a friend to visit Vancouver Island and in particular Chemainus. At the time both were looking for a career change and upon arriving to this charming town they were inspired by both the murals and the business potential. At the time south end Willow St. was being developed for commercial business and without much reservation, they purchased a property with a mill house on it during an overnight stay. Wrapping up their lives in Oshawa they moved to Chemainus and soon after opened their lovely store in the late spring of 1988. The name Toad Hall came to them while driving

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to work in Ontario. They knew the shop would be located on Willow St. which immediately brought to might the classic childrens’ story “The Wind In The Willows” where Mr. Toad lived in Toad Hall. “We ended up with the name “Toad Hall Emporium” indicating that the store would be selling various eclectic products.” shares Neil. Many recognize that Dianne Hopkins was the heartbeat of the store but tremendous support came from Neil Newton over the years especially with the construction and choosing of fixtures.

What were their secrets to success?

Here’s what they have to share: - Believe in yourself and your ideas.

- Follow your intuition.

Take courses & upgrade.

- Be Community Minded and Support existing organizations & programmes.

Thanks for 24 years of interesting gifts and nick nacks the shoppers of Willow Street already miss you!

I love Merridale’s sparkling Somerset - Sheila Badman, Cowichan Valley Voice

Valleyview

Christmas Lights – Oh Joy?

M

any people love the idea of Christmas lights while they are strolling through Ladysmith or watching Clark Griswold plug in his crazy house. But like a romantic stroll in the rain, reality is often wetter. And colder.

With tangled cords and swaying ladders. This is exactly why two Christmas light camps have formed. Those who love the idea of lights yet hate the reality and those who hate the idea of lights and hate the reality. Where’s all the Christmas Light joy? *footage not found* I submit 3 ways to bring back the joy this holiday season. *revolution alert*

1.Quality vs. Quantity

So much to offer!

2. Let someone else do the dirty work!

If the idea of putting up lights causes your blood pressure to skyrocket, hand the work over to someone else. Whether that means hiring a student or a professional (or feigning illness to win the sympathy of your neighbor…) there are many options.

3.Personalize!

Part of the joy in holiday lighting is making it your own! If you like colour or warm white, lots of woodsy greenery or something sleek and contemporary, express yourself! Create a look you want to come home to.

Highlighting the peak of your home with high quality, well fitted and measured lights will have a much stronger appeal than strewing a variety of faded,

Have You Heard About The Garden Pantry Thrift Store?

I

Centre

mismatched, poorly fitting lights helter skelter. At the very least, don’t buy your lights from the same place you buy your kitty litter.

John Close owns and operates Lush Eco Lawns.

“Go ahead Take off your shoes!” www.lushecolawns.com

1400 Cowichan Bay Rd Books Bucknuck Books 250-929-2665 Used books and Local authors Fitness Valley Health and Fitness 250-743-0511 Full service gym/classes Spa and Wellness Reiki Wellness *New Location #13 250 743-8122 Reiki, Foot Detox, Infrared, Acupuncture, Craniosacral Pets Dunkin Dogs 250 743-3935 Grooming, daycare, food/raw and more

Food Cobblecinos 250 743 8158 Breakfast, Lunch, Brunch Country Grocer 250 743-5639 Bakery, Meat & Produce Dragon Yuan 250 733-2335 Chinese Eat In/ Take Out Healthcare Cobble Hill Dental 250-743-6698 Friendly, Family Practice We Welcome New Patients!

South Cowichan Physiotherapy & Sports Rehabilitation 250-743-3833 Physiotherapy, Vestibular Rehabilitation, Acupuncture, Orthotics

f you’ve been to Cowichan Specialty themed gift Green Community’s baskets are also available.

(CGC) new office, located Computers CGC makes a great effort at 360 Duncan Street, Teky.ca to thank every person who you will also notice a new 1-888-843-8359 makes a donation to the storefront space called The Computer service & sales Garden Pantry because every Garden Pantry Thrift Store.

Websites & print design item sold supports CGC’s By reducing, reusing and recycling gardening and food- inclusive community events, workshops and programs. If preservation items, CGC’s you are interested in donating Garden Pantry is where you items that support a more can find new and used items sustainable community, please like shovels, rakes, seeds, contact Amanda amanda@ ceramic pots, baskets, burlap sacks, red-wiggler worms, and cowichangreencommunity. org. even rubber boots, to food preservation items such as Garden Pantry Thrift Store stove-top canners, canning 360 Duncan Street jars and tools, apple-corers, Downtown Duncan recipe books, blenders, 250 748 8506 dehydrators and more!

My local favourite is the little Cowichan Valley Museum only $2 to enter! Emily Doyle-Yamaguchi, CVRD

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Heartwood Studio

Ken Broadland, woodturner Specializing in salad bowls & servers - all items made from local woods 5846 Curry Road, Duncan (off Gibbins) 250-746-5480

‘Where function meets beauty’

heartwood@shaw.ca www.heartwoodstudio.ca

Local Artist Gallery

Yarn • Books • First Nations Art Wonderful Surprises 9747 Willow Street • 250-246-2244

Eliza Hemingway Art and Design Studio Fibre Art, Antiques and Fine Art

Hours: 10:30am to 5:00pm Closed Mondays 9756C Willow Street, Chemainus Big Bang Theory mixed media

Tel: 250-324-2212 www.elizahemingway.com

Terry Harrison

Exquisite hand-painted flowers on glass and casual clothing Studio: 1213 Royalta Rd., Mill Bay harrisonglassart@shaw.ca 250-743-3862 www.members.shaw.ca/harrisonglassart A Visions Artist - www.visionsarttour.ca

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Imagine That!

S

hopping at Vancouver Island’s premier artisans co-operative in downtown Duncan’s city square is like visiting ninety top notch art galleries all at once.

Exquisitely hand crafted works of art hang from the rafters, cover the walls, line the shelves and grace the large store windows at the Artisans’ Designs Co-operative - Imagine That!

Truly a ‘one of a kind’ store, each original piece of work reflects the creativity of exceptional artists and a thriving local arts community.

Co-operative members who operate Imagine That! believe the store’s success is due to the impressive selection of artwork that is juried to reflect the very best.

Along with other regional attractions, Imagine That! has become a shopping destination for visitors to the island, looking for something locally made and out of the ordinary. Even in tough economic times the store receives a steady stream of

customers, attracting both local residents and visitors from all over the world.

Christmas, of course, is an exciting time with shoppers looking for that very special hand-crafted gift from the Island.

One of the advantages of shopping at Imagine That! is the fact that the five managing members are artists themselves. As such, they collectively hold a wealth of arts knowledge. They are more than happy to answer questions and share information.

Imagine That! opened its doors in 1994 with a founding group of artists who preferred to sell their work all year round without depending on the craft fair circuit. They wanted direct contact with buyers in the market place.

Walk through the doors of southern Vancouver’s only artisans co-operative and indulge in the locally made work of more than ninety top quality artists. Imagine that!

Submitted by Veronica Scott, a mosaic artist and writer.

My favourite place to eat in Chemainus, Odika Cafe -Lulu Vegh, Chemainus Health Food Store

Winter Solstice Exhibit Opening Dec 7 6 - 9pm Show runs to Dec 30 Wed - Sun 10am - 5pm Open Fridays till 9pm Margit Nellemann Gallery Richards Trail, North Cowichan

Deborah Dumka works from her textile studio-by-the-sea on the edge of the northern Gulf island of Texada. Born in northern BC, Deb moved from west coast to east coast across Canada and then back, obtaining first a degree in Electrical Engineering and then a diploma in Textile Studies in St. John’s NL. Through teaching textiles, she has experienced the Arctic shores of Frobisher Bay completing for her exposure to the triad of Canadian coastal landscapes.

Artisan Craft Fair - All Ages December 8 10am -3pm Oceanfront Suites, Cowichan Bay

Deb draws her inspiration from the coastal landscape, shaping the colour palette for her line of hand dyed boiled wool felt jewellery and handbags, and focussing the form of her large scale felt carpets, to reflect on our personal sense of place and on the role of meaningful experiences in nature to our health, well being and spirit.

Deb makes things that have a place in our everyday lives, things that through their handmade texture, colour and function reconnect us to a time when all objects were chosen from the hands of a maker, taking their beauty from the marks of the creation process and the naturalness of the materials.

Deb is active in the Canadian craft community - provincially through the Craft Council

Inspired by the coordinator’s 11 year old artisan who has been involved selling her crafts in the markets since the age of 8 years. The fair is creates an opportunity for buying local and promoting talent of all ages. The event will showcase some of Cowichan Valley’s home made gifts with an eclectic mix of products to chose from. Located in the main Ballroom just past Terrain

of British Columbia (www. craftcouncilbc.ca) and nationally through the Canadian Crafts Federation.

This December, you can see Deb’s work at Margit Nellemann’s Winter Solstice Exhibit. This is the fourth and last of a series of seasonal

exhibits held at the Margit Nellemann Gallery. The exhibit titled ‘HOME’ welcomes the warmth and festive glow of the season featuring felt jewellery and purses alongside Margit’s handbuilt clay. www.deborahdumka.ca www.margitnellemann.com

Restaurant, the restaurant will be open for brunch and the wine bar will be open in the ballroom during the event.

Experience the Joy of Textiles.

Art Classes•Weaving and Spinning Community Loom•Artisan Textiles

Leola’s Studio Whippletree Junction

Next To Nature Trading Whippletree Junction

An online site featuring Fine Inuit Carvings and Original Drawings www.northstarinuitgallery.com

Elisabeth Gelb 250 466 4342

DID YOU KNOW? New stainless steel produced has at least 60% recycled content.

It is the MOST hygenic material, with no off gassing.

Stainless steel is 100% recyclable & re-usable.

Custom center island countertops starting from $400.

Order yours today!

Outerwear

Fair Trade Sweaters Puzzles Cards Pottery Sheepskin Slippers Mohair Socks

Beaver House Fudge Featuring our famous seasonal Pumpkin Fudge

Also available at the Duncan Farmers Market!

250 748 6647

www.beaverhousefudge.com

My favourite local artist is Jeffrey Birkin (now showing at Maple Bay Marina Cafe) - Terri Lewis, Wellness Body Worker

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Burly Maple Table with 8 Chair Extension, Live Edge Design

A Table At Its Centre

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oming together for a meal goes far beyond nourishment. We want to celebrate, share, listen and make memories. The table is at the centre of this wonderful space.

Which makes the table something to think about, wouldn’t you say?

Live Edge Design in Duncan, BC is a workshop and studio that specializes in bringing the best to the table.

On Vancouver Island we are graced with local Bigleaf Western Maple, sought after by wood turners and musical instrument makers for its extraordinary figure and beauty.

Other beauties that make stunning tables are Arbutus, Elm, Fir and even Cottonwood (at least some good can come of it!)

They’re even better when they’re Live Edge. Live Edge means the bark’s off, but the gorgeous natural flow of the tree’s outer edge still is there.

Trees that are brought down by storms or put a home at risk or are left behind by companies

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looking for dimensional lumber are the ones we use in tables and other functional art pieces.

Everything from the cutting, milling, drying, design and product creation is done by our somewhat calloused hands. The ‘Tree to Table’ process can take close to a year and is worth the wait, but we also have a library of wood ready for use right now.

Local craftsmen and women make exactly what you want.

Because when you come together around a table, you should want to stay. And stay. And when the wood is satin-smooth and a feast for the eyes, you do just that. The Live Edge table is an investment in art and function that your family will enjoy through generations. Come see—and feel—for yourself at our Open House on Dec. 1 from 10-4 at 5195 Mearns Road, Duncan.

Christine Fagan, loves working with a local business whose vision is of creation and sustainability.

I like watching the Belly Dance Extravaganza at the Duncan Garage Showroom, Sean Robinson, Skpper of SilverSwift

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DESIGNI NG green Storms ‘A’ Comin

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inter has arrived and it’s time to batten down the hatches, even here in the Warm Land. One of my time tested favourites for warming up an older character home are exterior wood storm windows. Besides the extra warmth and energy savings they provide, they give exterior protection to the window sashes which are the

highest to maintain and most expensive parts to upkeep.

Vintage Woodworks out of Victoria will premeasure and design the window to create a replica panel to match your existing mullions (the wood divides in the glass and frame) and even pre paint to colour match.

Having nearly completed my own 1913 character home, we have immediately registered lower heating costs, much more comfort and even sound proofing in spite of the fact there is no vacuum space involved. The Emily Carr House and Museum used laminated glass in the

storm units which added a UV reflectent inherent in the laminating process as well as increased security for the valuable artefacts inside. The handy removable hardware allows easy window cleaning, seasonal ventilation without having to remove the storms, and ease of service even if on the second or third floor.

Together with these tried and true improvements, LiveSmart BC gives rebates for the installation of this type of window upgrade, proving it has long lasting and sustainable attributes.

Combine this upgrade with draft-proofing, a method that aims to stop leaks entering the lower portions of the house (crawlspaces, wall and floor plates), and combined with those unfelt drafts that leak out the top of the house (light fixtures, plumbing stacks and fireplace chimneys) and you are ready for the gales to come.

Inage David Coulson; Sean installing a storm window from Vintage Woodworks

David Coulson is a local certified Built Green design builder. He has a staff of 25 that have built throughout the island for over 20 years.

Digital section of a storm window

My favourite designer is Shannon Wilson, Barnswallows Apparel available at Spinning Ninny in Cow Bay, Jess Kerr, Harmony Yoga

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Holiday

Guide for

BUYERS

MINDFUL LIVING An easy guide to help you decide where to go for mindful gifts, food and services this holiday season.

Music Cowichan Symphony Society

Artisans, Craft & Clothing

Victoria Symphony – “Parker Plays Gershwin” Friday, January 18, 2013 at 7:30 pm Cowichan Theatre, 2687 James St, Duncan 250-748-7529 www.CowichanSymphonySociety.ca The dynamic and personable Ian Parker returns to perform Gershwin’s beloved “Rhapsody in Blue.”

Also in the program:Borodin’s Polovtsian Dances Gershwin’s I’ve Got Rhythm Variations Bartok’s Miraculous Mandarin Suite R. Korsakov’s Capriccio Espagnol

Imagine That! Artisans’

Organic Spa Services

Etc!

Soul Escape Esthetics

4 -5777 Trans Canada Hwy Duncan 250 748 2056 www.soulescape.ca Green spa offering Certified Organic skincare Eminence form Hungary, a full range of spa treatments including Waxing, Facials, Massage, Manicures, Pedicures, and Diabetic footcare. Holiday Gift Certificates available.

Toys

The Red Balloon Toy Shop

85 Station Street, Duncan 250 748-5545 The best toyshop in the whole wide world for games, puzzles, crafts, science, dolls, special needs toys, dress-up, dinosaurs, puppets, kites. We carry Lego, Playmobile and more!

Bamboletta Dolls

1759 Cowichan Bay Road (Unit G) Cowichan Bay www.bamboletta.com One of a kind, all natural, skillfully handcrafted dolls made with high quality ‘ingredients’ and lots of love right here in the Cowichan Valley. New store opens December 1st!

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251 Craig Street, Downtown Duncan 250-748-6776 www.imaginethatartisans.com Beautifully stocked with locally made original art and craft pieces, featuring works in clay, glass, wood, metal and fibre. Everything purchased here supports a local artisan and this wonderful artists collective.

9747c Willow Street, Chemainus 250-324-2227 Open 7 days a week in November and December Offering a fantastic range of beads and beading supplies as well as classes. Unique gifts for every member of the family including pets. Gift Certificates.

Chemainus Theatre Gallery Gift Shop

9737 Chemainus Road, Chemainus 250-246-9806 Ext. 4 www.chemainustheatre.ca Experience local arts beyond the stage in the Gallery Gift Shop. A wide variety of unique and imaginative items by BC artisans offer new creations to discover and bring home.

Spinning Ninny Boutique

1725 Cowichan Bay Road, Cowichan Bay www.spinningninny.ca 250-597-1444 A unique Boutique with an eclectic collaboration of creativity and style. Everything is Handcrafted by local designers with love Jewelry, Hand Felted Art, Mosaics, Pottery and Teas. Gift Certifcates Available.

Cowichan Valley Voice Magazine - Eat, Drink and Buy Local This Holiday Season

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Theatre & Local Dining

Meats

The Chemainus Theatre Festival and Playbill Dining Room

Windhorse Farm

9737 Chemainus Road, Chemainus Box office at 1-800-565-7738 www.chemainustheatre.ca Theatre with heart and soul – it’s what makes the Chemainus Theatre Festival Experience so alive, appealing and exciting. Book your theatre package today. Gift certificates available in any denomination.

3900 Rowe Road, Glenora 250 748-2585 www.windhorseorganics.ca Come to Windhorse Farm for healthy and delicious grass-fed/finished angus beef. We are Certified Organic by IOPA and certified by the BC SPCA. Our beef is sold by the cut - phone or check the website for availability.

Amusé on the Vineyard

Cowichan Valley Meat Market

2915 Cameron Taggart Rd, Mill Bay 250-743-3667 www.amuseonthevineyard.com Now until the end of December, buy a gift certificate for a friend and get 20% back in FREE gift certificates for yourself. Gift certificates can be purchased by calling, on our website or in person.

Seafood Cowichan Bay Seafood

1751 Cowichan Bay Road, Cowichan Bay 250 748-0020 www.cowichanbayseafood.com Proudly offering seafood that meets the criteria of the Sea Choice program, offering sustainable and local seafood products and gourmet groceries.

Tea, Coffee and Chocolate Teafarm

5191 Koksilah Road, South of Duncan 250 746-8732 Offering grain fed beef, pork, lamb and veal from Westholme Farms...All animals are fed home grown forage with no added hormones, and no animal by-products. Westholme Farms operates its own feedmill. There are also a variety of fresh and frozen products, spices, deli items, meat pies and more in store. Open 7 days a week from 7:30am - 7pm.

The Duncan Butcher

430 Trans Canada Hwy, Duncan 250 748-6377 www.duncanbutchershop.com Organic beef, chicken , free run buffalo and venison, hormone free none medicated beef, pork, chicken, turkeys and house made sausage, pepperoni, hams, bacons, sausage rolls, smokies, garlic coils, meat loafs and more!

Health Food & Grocery

8350 Richards Traill, North Cowichan 250-748-3811 www.teafarm.ca Share the Way of Tea with those you love. Choose from a wide selection of artisan crafted organic loose leaf teas, teaware, tea accessories and more. Open Wednesday-Sunday 10am-5pm. Friday evenings until 9pm for your pleasure and convenience. Closed in January.

Chemainus Health Food Store

Moziro Coffee Roasters and Chocolatiers

Holiday Helpers

1761 B Shawnigan-Mill Bay Rd, Shawnigan Lake 250.733.2245 www.moziro.com Locally roasted coffee and handmade chocolate.

Family owned and operated. Moziro is happy to carry 100% direct trade beans - this means all of their beans are sold direct to them from farmers in Africa.

9738 Willow Street, Chemainus 250 246-9838 We have a huge selection of natural, organic, local and ecofriendly gifts, as well as organic groceries and food for specialty diets. We also carry a large selction of ecofriendly clothing in soy, bamboo, hemp and cotton.

Clean Choice Cleaners

250-929-8381 www.cleanchoicecleaners.com Providing professional, eco-friendly cleaning services for residential and commercial properties in the South Cowichan Valley. Holiday and special occasion clean up services available. Give the gift of clean liviing! Gift Certificates available in all amounts.

Favourite Local Buying Tip: Spend your first $25 on gifts in a local store.

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well as seen in the familiar, and new, faces gracing the doors of our businesses.

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hen thinking about Christmas, or Seasonal shopping, think Downtown Duncan. As our little town grows in esteem for it’s one of a kind shopping and charm, it’s also time to take the retail experience to another level.

Some think the downtown is difficult to navigate, some find parking a problem, however those who really want to get here manage very

Bras, Silk Lingerie and Bra Fittings from Sheer Essentials.

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Downtown Duncan is a walkers dream. Park your car in one of the many (yes, at least four) parking lots downtown, bring an umbrella and start walking. If you can browse for hours ‘on line’, you know you’d be better off browsing on foot – it’s actually healthier for you and your community! Anyone who’s spent time looking for ‘things’ knows it’s in the looking that you might actually find the unexpected.

One thing we are not; is big box! Yes, we need all kinds of shops and services to make living comfortable but it’s in our unique and independently owned businesses’ that makes us a community. As different Whimsical BC artist Charles Van as we are, it’s in being Sandwyk Art Cards available at together in a shared place that TenOld Books. brings us all to that special your community as well. feeling of being home.

Stop for coffee, for lunch, or perhaps a drink! Be tempted by the delicious baked goods our local café’s have. Be fed on local, fresh, sustainable food. Be moved to buy from the businesses who support

As the Solstice and holiday season calls us to be thankful and thoughtful, put that into your daily-ness, shop local and support your community this season.

EJ Hughes Calendars to benefit the A fundraiser for Cowichan Food Connections- Help support the Bread Van and local food banks available at Cowichan Green Community.

Enamel on Steel bookmarks by Margot Page available at Imagine That Artisans

Cowichan Valley Voice Magazine - Eat, Drink and Buy Local This Holiday Season

Imagine ALL Your Shopping Finished in Just ONE DAY!

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elp build a stronger community this holiday season and spend your shopping dollars in Downtown Duncan.

As gift giving time approaches most of us will spend a good portion of our annual shopping budget in December.

Before you gas the car to drive to Victoria or Nanaimo or pour yourself a glass to get ready to shop online for your gifts, keep in mind a few important thoughts.

If all of us decided to spend our hard earned funds with locally owned, independent businesses, the economic impact of our dollars would effect our own community

threefold. The money spent would help support businesses and their staff, many of them our friends and neighbours.

Those same dollars will then stay within and help replenish our community; be put towards local taxes, improving and sustaining the quality of our community, which will also result in a better quality of life for us all.

Garneau Slippers from Cardino Shoes

Books available at a varitey of new and used bookstores downtown.

Favourite Local Buying Tip: Spend your first $25 on gifts in a local store.

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Spending them out of town instead just lines the pockets of big corporations.

Who deserves your money more?

If variety and choice stops you from buying local request those special products from the owners. 99% of the time they will bring what you ask in.

work together to send the message to our shop owners that we care about our community.

Supporting local businesses, even with just 10% of your holiday spending will make a huge difference to our local economy.

Yes, you can help make that difference happen this year. Join friends and neighbours as we all

Claudio Tenold, from Ten Old Books located in the Duncan Garage is Duncan’s only source to find art cards, and Christmas cards

by BC artist Charles Van Sandwyk.

His beautiful Edwardian period style is favoured by all.

Ready to shop locally? How about starting in downtown Duncan?

Here’s a list of the best gift ideas that each store owner has for this holiday season!

For the ladies, Sheer Essentials offers complimentary bra fitting service with one of their certified bra fitters for the recipient of any gift certificate for the store. They also carry hard to find zip front robes and a wide selection of 100% silk lingerie.

Eclectic Avenue has many unique items but Sarah van Rossum’s pick for the list would be one of their beautiful sterling silver semi-precious stone pendants or a beautiful 1920’s style wool cloche hat - - no need to figure out sizing with hats and jewelry!

Jean Cardino’s gift choice is the Garneau slipper. “They are a versatile gift for men and women (we have both) and come in an array of fabulous colours. They are made using sheeps wool and suede and leather and produced and made in Quebec.” $80-$120 Eco-friendly, natural, and not made in China!”

Terra Viam Hand Cut Soaps $9 from Tulipe Noire.

Books make great gifts, but Volume One also stocks a large unique variety of calendars and day planners. Starting at just $3.29.

Connie from Prudence suggests giving the gift of warmth. She carries hand made Alpacan hats, mitts and scarves.

Magnolia invites you to come in and see their ‘Nice ‘N Comfy’ all cotton nighties $38-$49.

Tulipe Noire has Chloe Angus shawls made in Vancouver from soft organic fabrics for $130. For stocking stuffers, Kari McLay suggests hand cut, triple milled Terra Viam soaps featured in a recent Canadian House & Home with scents like Crenelated Brule, Crumb Cake, Black Forest Torte, Wild Mint and Lavender all wrapped in Touch gloves which enables you t use beautiful vintage papers. touch screens with your gloves on! available at Fabrications.

The Garment District has fabulous, uniquely designed well priced party dresses all under $49.99! Great for NYE too.

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Holiday Gifts from Rocky Mountain Soap Co. Butter London Holiday Gift Packs HATS! SCARVES! GLOVES! MITTENS! SLIPPERS!

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Teenagers are always hard to buy for but a visit to Area 51 makes shopping easy. Hot picks this year?

Long Boards and Osiris shoes starting at $69.99.

Martins Clothing carry boxers shorts and sets of hankies in stock, great for stocking stuffers.

Alpaca Wool/Merino Wool/ Pashmina/ Silk/Cotton/Bamboo Bamboo Lounge and Sleepwear Holiday Shopping Hours:

- 5:30pm, Friday 10 - 8pm  Daily 10Sunday Noon - 4pm 155 Craig Street,

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Mary at Skanda offers gifts of creation - Learn how to make one of a kind jewelry using rare and unique gemstones. Small classes and private parties starting at $50 per person. Gift Certificates available.

Owner Linda Quiring from Salt Spring Soapworks suggests their Cranberry Bath Bombs.”

We sell them by the thousands at Christmastime!” she exclaims.

Downtown Duncan

250-597-1188

Osiris Shoes and Long Boards make perfect gifts for teenage boys both are available at Area 51.

Craig Street Brew Pub’s Mt. Prevost Porter - Aaron Bichard, Cowichan Recyclists

what other one-of-a-kind pieces she has in her store!

Theresa Rasmussen from Shade’s Ladies Clothing tells us that Myka Jewellery is all the bling you will ever need and they also carry the Fruits and Passion line.

Family Framing Makes Great Gifts Outlooks Menswear on Station Street is the store for comfort, luxury and sustainability. Their pick of the season are organic cotton men’s PJ’s and bathrobes.

Cynthia from Fabrications has a perfect gift and problem solver “The touch gloves which enables you to use touch screens with your gloves on! from $40 and for flair she Sweater Hat Set Made By Rethreads

Irish gifts? Look no further Irish giftware and beautiful Celtic jewelry available at The Celtic Connection.

Looking for warmth? Anye at Soul Comfort Sheepskin has local, handmade adult sheep’s wool and hemp slippers. Cozy and durable.

CGC’s Garden Pantry Thrift Store carries new traditionally hand-carved spoons and bowls by local carver, Rod Norton or help support the Bread Van and local food banks and buy a E.J. Hughes 2013 Calendars - a fundraiser for Cowichan Food Connections.

Jacki at Wishes suggests sterling sliver and baltic amber pendants starting at just $15.

For conscious buyers, G.I.F.T.S has Fair Trade one of a kind colorful dustpans hand made in Indonesia from recycled tins! $7.50 - Great under $10 gift for friends.

Sue Lindgren of ReThreads Custom Clothing Company is excited about her Winter Greens Sweater Hat Set, $50 “This 100% cotton hat set consists of a “pull your hair through” hat, neck gaiter & fingerless handwarmers!” and best of all it was reconstructed and handmade by Sue herself! Imagine

Excellent FrameWorks and the E. J. Hughes Gallery Art for your empty walls.

Gifts for yourself and others.

We can print your photos on canvas.

We want to frame your art for you.

suggests the boot sock that adds a fur cuff to any of your boots, $42.

Finish the day off at Craig Street Brewing Co. with a micro brewed beer. Drink there or take one home in one of their refillable brown glass growlers.

They fit about 4 pints and can be filled with a locally brewed draught beer of your choice starting at $14 (+ deposit).

Growlers available Another great at Craig St guy gift or even Brewing Co to take home locally for fridge! brewed beer.

much more!

And there’s so

Imagine all the shopping for friends and family can be done in just ONE local day within Downtown Duncan! I’ll drink to that.

Sterling Silver Pendants from Eclectic Avenue

Also available at Imagine That! Artisans in Downtown Duncan 251 Craig Street

28 station St downtown duncan 250-746-7112

LUNCH

BRUNCH

DINNER

Now Open

Elegant, intimate fine dining in Duncan For inquiries about our Private Dining Room, Meeting Room or for Reservations Please call 250-597-0066 Gift Certificates are now available www.HudsonsOnFirst.ca

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Favourite Local Buying Tip: Spend your first $25 on gifts in a local store.

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Achieving Better Alignment With The Hellerwork Touch issues, as well as aches, pain, injuries, stress, discomfort and trauma often lead people towards touch-based healing work.

“You’re hungry to be touched”

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another Merridale’s 12 Days of Christmas Shopping Specials December 1 -12th Merridale Ciderworks 1230 Merridale Rd Cobble Hill Gift giving starts early at merridale with 12 days of fantastic specials to help people get their shopping done. Beginning on Dec 1st, a different special will be offered each day, and added to the next days’ special so that

by Day 12 there will twelve different specials to choose from, (while quantities last).

Plus, when you buy in their gift shop, you will receive coupons for lunch or dinner in the bistro on the day of your shopping trip because Merridale believes shopping should be fun!

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IN COWICHAN BAY Ladies Night in Cowichan Bay

Thursday December 13 6-9pm

Cowichan Bay Waterfront

Back by popular demand!

Spinning Ninny Boutique and Zoe’s cafe are hosting another “Ladies Night” in Cowichan Bay and welcome all the fine ladies of the Cowichan Valley to come again, bring your friends or make new ones!

Mingle through wonderful lady owned shops while you enjoy sips of local wines and holiday drinks.There will be special Christmas shopping deals, discounts and live music! Lots of gift basket draws and prizes to be won!

Anticipating another night of SO MUCH FUN!

s something an old boyfriend said to me. That statement has stayed with me, mostly because it’s so true. It’s a universal hunger.

Working in the holistic healing arts, I see this longing all the time.

If we’re really honest, we’re all hungry to be touched, both literally and metaphorically.

Literally, touch is essential to our health. We are social creatures, meant to be held, snuggled, and touched. As babies, our future health depends significantly on being carried, held and comforted by touch. Touch reassures us that we are cared for, and, according to touch research, enhances attentiveness, alleviates depressive symptoms, reduces pain and stress hormones, and improves immune function.

These health benefits apply to all ages, not just babies!

Metaphorically, we are also hungry to be touched.

We seek out community – our spirits are touched by being seen, understood, acknowledged and accepted.

Lack of touch can lead to a lack of physical and emotional health. Our vitality and posture suffers. These

Kilrenny Farm’s fresh pasta - Victor Vesely, Teafarm, North Cowichan

Hellerwork Structural Integration is a powerful system of healing that uses deep-tissue massage (myofascial release), movement education and dialogue with the mind/ body connection to create new physical and emotional options. It brings people into alignment, physically and emotionally.

Hellerwork Structural Integration uses physical touch - deep-tissue massage – to release restrictions in our connective tissue that limit movement and comfort in our bodies. Movement education - through the practitioner’s skillful observation of movement that may be restricted, shut down, or under or over compensating - gives the tools to make corrections on your own. Body/mind dialogue is the touch of spirit – gently exploring and investigating how and where emotions live in your body.

The combination of massage, movement and dialogue in each session creates fantastic shifts for the client in ease, body awareness, better posture and alignment.

Longest lasting results are gained from the 11-session Hellerwork Series. For more information visit www.timetorealign.com.

Janelle Hardy is a Hellerwork Structural Integration Practitioner in Cowichan Bay. www. timetorealign.com

holiday specials Dec 1st - 12th

12 Days of Christmas Dec 1st - On the first day of Christmas, merridale offered me - Cider for my Parties Buy one case of Cider (house, traditional, scrumpy, cyser or merri berri) and receive 20% off at the till

INTERNATIONAL TEA DAY Teafarm Saturday December 15th 10am - 5pm 8350 Richards Trail North Cowichan 250.748.3811 www.teafarm.ca You are invited to the Teafarm to celebrate International Tea Day and the plight of workers around the world working for better tea and a better life.

Cup interesting and exquisite organic teas from many tea producing countries as well as locally blended teas. Meet other tea enthusiasts and learn more about the world of tea.

There will be something for folks new to tea and those looking to enhance their existing knowledge and experience of finely crafted organic loose tea.

Tastings are by donation with proceeds to the local Food Bank and the Cowichan Green Community.

OUR Childrens New Year’s Celebration December 31st 4pm January 1st 11am $100 per child Ages 5-14 OUR Eco Village 1565 Baldy Mtn Road Shawnigan Lake 250.743-3067 www.ourecovillage.org

Dec 2nd - On the second day of Christmas merridale offered me - Two Pizza Dinners Buy one ready to go pizza from the deli, and receive the second one for free -A Merridale pizza shell, house made tomato sauce, and in-house smoked cheese. All bundled in a to-go container with cooking instructions for home.

an evening of WINTER SOLSTICE MUSIC Friday Dec 21st, 7pm Duncan United Church 246 Ingram st.

A Family Friendly Event Winter Solstice, Dec 21st, is a big day for many of us around the globe and what better then to celebrate in full radiance with music, song, rhythms, light, and sound resonance. Join Cari Burdett and Sara Marreiros again for their 2nd Annual Winter Solstice Music Celebration. This year they have collaborated with the talented Leah Hokanson, a gifted pianist, singer, musician on many levels from Gabriola Island; Massimo Pintus on guitar and gongs; and Chris Bertin on world percussion.

Classic carols, mixed with folk tunes like, Gordon Lightfoot’s Winter Song, chants of peace, classical arrangements, sing-a- long and more. A night the family will remember and a beautiful evening to share with friends and family - a true Solstice mood or bringing in the light in the heart of winter.

Last years event was sold out, so make sure to get your advance tickets.

Rather than just a babysitting experience for the evening while families may be celebrating outside of their home…. children/youth can book in with OUR community for a full range of fun and special activities of song, eco-games, crafts, yoga, yummy organic snacks and meals…and a morning circle of Council to vision for our coming year ahead.

Dec 3rd - On the third day of Christmas merridale offered me - Three orchard spirits Buy all three of our spirits – and receive 3 glasses specifically made for spirit tasting - free Dec 4th - On the fourth day of Christmas merridale offered me - Four gift certificatesPurchase 4 different gift certificates (minimum combined value of $200) and receive lunch for two in the bistro. (maximum value $40; must be used in one visit) Dec 5th - On the fifth day of Christmas merridale offered me - Five Gift baskets – Purchase 5 different gift baskets wrapped and ready to go for your clients or staff, or friends,(combined value of $250 or more) and pamper yourself with a night in the yurt for free (booking restrictions apply) Dec 6th - On the sixth day of Christmas merridale gifted me - Six Artisan Fortifieds Buy 6 of our fortified products – Pomme Oh!, Mure Oh!, or Winter Apple and receive 25% off. The perfect Vancouver Island gift. Great for teacher gifts, house parties, or friends -The ingredients all come from the farm Dec 7th - On the seventh day of Christmas merridale offered me - Seven hand poured glasses Buy 4 hand poured glasses and receive 3 for free. Hand poured and made from recycle glass, these unique glasses can be used for cider or as dessert dishes. Each one is a piece of art!

Dec 8th - On the eighth day of Christmas merridale offered me - Eight in-house products Buy 8 of our in-house products – honey mustard, apple chutney, red onion marmalade, bresaola, loinzina, bread and butter pickles, and 2 different types of bread, to receive a free charcutrie platter in the bistro (reservations for bistro must be made in advance) Perfect for your entertaining over the holiday season or to give as house gifts.

Dec 9th - On the ninth day of Christmas merridale offered me - A round of nine mimosas for the family Bring a group of 9 people or more for brunch and receive 9 mimosas for the table to be enjoyed on a Sunday Brunch.

Dec 10th - On the tenth day of Christmas merridale offered me - Ten guided Tours and Tastings Purchase a 2012-2013 guided tour and tasting for 10 people, and receive an artisan bread basket with Merridale dips for free in the bistro (tour reservations required) Dec 11th - On the eleventh day of Christmas merridale offered me – 11 distillery tours Purchase a 2012-2013 distillery tour for 11 at 25% off and receive complementary food pairings. (tour reservations required) Dec 12th - On the twelfth day of Christmas merridale offered me - 12 New Year Courses! Book a table for 4 people on New Years Eve and celebrate with 3 course dinner paired with cider and spirits. The libations are on the house and the dinner is so reasonable priced - space will book up fast.

By day 12 there will be 12 different sale items to choose from! *AND when you purchase one of our 12 days specials onsite, receive bistro coupons for lunch – a brilliant way to shop!

1230 merridale road cobble hill (250) 743-4293 www.merridale.com

Favourite holiday activity - disc golf and artisan beers, Steve Wolfe, Boyd Jolin & Richard Badman, Maple Bay

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meant by “My Wisdom,” in the Buddhist philosophy?

This is the ability to accept and understand the “innerself” ones weaknesses, ones strengths and to work with each part of our personality in realizing we should be masters of our minds and not our mind emotionally pushing us here and there.

108 Earthly Desires How Did I Do This Past Year?

In this day and age the practice of “humility” is a much ignored virtue in our busy world of desire, but on December 31st the last day of each year there is a

Meditation Celebration of the 108 Earthly Desires, with an opportunity to reflect on the wisdom we may or may not have shared over the past year. So what is

Last Minute

Christmas

Market

FREE ADMISSION

3 Sundays in December 9th, 16th & 23rd 11am -3pm Fine Food • Beautiful Art • Skilled Craft ALL LOCAL & HAND-MADE Clements Centre - 5856 Clements in Duncan (off James Street, up from the Island Savings Centre)

For more info please call 250 710 1276

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In the celebration on the last day of the Year, we reflect on the kind of year we have now in our most recent past, that we have shared with family, loved ones, co-workers; we reflect on our health, we look back on our financial year, we seek to understand our motivation of these recent people, places and events. We meditate on what we could have done better, how many more acts of kindness could I have done? How have I grown during this past year?

With this Meditation we forgive ourselves for errors and mistakes and commit to listening better in the coming Amnesty International “Write for Rights” Saturday December 8th 10am - 1pm The Bagel Street Cafe 48 Station Street, Duncan www.amnesty.ca/ Write-a-thon You’re invited to drop by anytime and join us for fifteen minutes, half an hour, an hour, whatever works for you…

Through Write for Rights the world is recognizing the importance of taking action on International Human Rights Day. Amnesty supporters worldwide are pressing governments everywhere to stand by their commitment to uphold all the rights enshrined in the Universal Declaration of Human Rights.

Your letters can save lives, free prisoners, stop torture…it is the cumulative power of individual

year, realizing it is not easy to be human with our 108 Earthly Desires. Our goal then is to turn our human desires into Health, Happiness and Prosperity; to seek the Four Virtues of the discovery of Inner-Self, which leads to Happiness, which leads to the virtue of Purity, in the sense of kindness, love and compassion, which helps us to understand the temporary nature of our journey on mother Earth, so we can realize the meaning of Eternal, past, present and future.

This 108 Meditation Celebration takes place in the early part of New Years Eve, so we can go out later in the evening, and welcome the coming New Year !

Thus It Has Been Shared, Respectfully, Henry, Master Dharma Teacher, Nichiren Peace Center

Meditation Celebration of the 108 Earthly Desires December 31 8pm - 10pm www.viretreats.com 250. 710. 7594 letters that can overpower tyranny. Give what may be your most meaningful and satisfying gift this holiday season, for the cost of 30-50 minutes and a postage stamp! You can select one of many worthy cases featured in ‘Write-for-Rights’ on the day, follow an easy format and write letters of protest to people in positions of authority, or write cards of heartfelt solidarity directly to the people whose rights have been violated.

Letter writing with others is a surprisingly satisfying and joyful process.

Individual letters become an avalanche of letters, in many cases, authorities respond to this social pressure and release and/or cease to torture prisoners, while other prisoners are filled with a sense of hope and support from the outside world. Young people can also draw a picture to send, or make a poem.

Spinning Ninny for unique, locally made clothing - Katie Harris, Cowichan Recyclists

Green Living

DIY Holiday Gift Giving

“ I love giving homemade gifts, which one of my children would you like?”

Anonymous

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Educating the Innovative Mind

a, ha! Thought we could all use a good giggle this time of year.

The holiday season is upon us and there are many reasons to consider getting a little creative with some DIY ideas. From reducing the numerous impacts of consumerism to the heartfelt value of giving something that has been created with love and care. Mason jars are the ultimate in reusable packaging and with a little thought you can create some really unique gifts in them.

Here are a few ideas….

- a neighbour once delivered a delicious homemade

soup in a large mason jar to me at Christmas time –

perfect timing at such a busy time of year - home made body scrub made from epsom salts or

sugar, oil and essential oils make a great hostess or

teacher gift (recipe available on-line) - dog biscuits for your favorite pooch - individual desserts; cupcakes, puddings, crisps,

cheesecakes baked in short jars with personalized

name labels - homemade play dough for kids in multiple colours

dyed with kool-aid - individual hot chocolate fixings complete with marshmallows - locally grown tea - floating candle floating in water with a decorative ribbon around the top - a carefully folded apron with recipe card - rainy day ideas jar for kids - matches with sandpaper glued to the lid for a handy fire starter kit - homemade snow globe (google design ideas) - I spy bottle, tiny items hidden in grains of rice - homemade salsa, jam, nut butter or any preserves

from your own garden - chocolates, any that fit in the jar – can’t go wrong!

Really the ideas are endless, with a festive fabric under the lid, ribbon around the top and hand written gift card attached, mason jar gifts will be well received.

Happy Holidays from my family to yours!

Tracey Hanson local mompreneur and owner/operator Clean Choice EcoFriendly Cleaning Services

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ducation in Canada needs to develop innovative, creative minds. “Strong structural forces are demanding that Canadian organizations innovate or be pushed aside,” writes Glen Hodgson, Chief Economist at the Conference Board of Canada. The Board’s report card, How Canada Performs, ranked Canada 14th in innovation among 17 major nations. “Canada does not have a culture of innovation that underpins strong and sustained productivity growth,” Hodgson concludes. Meanwhile Harvey White, co-founder of U.S. tech company Qualcom, calls the death of creative readiness in the workforce a “national emergency.”

Recently, I asked two teachers how to foster innovative thinking. “Find the connections,” says Regina Montag, Science and German teacher at Island Oak High School in Duncan. “How do

you describe the behaviour of atomic particles?” she asks, answering, “You use metaphor.”

She recounts how students had the idea of choreographing a dance performance to visually and kinetically understand atomic particle movements. “As a society we pretend science is precise and humanities are not; that they are polar opposites.

But one needs the other,” says Elliot Fox-Povey, English, Social Studies and Drama teacher at Island Oak. He has students use math to uncover “deceptive rhetoric” in common references to Canadian history.

In one example, students measure, graph and compare units of time different groups have populated Canada.

The need for innovation and creativity in business and community is so pressing that recently, the National Science Foundation in the U.S. provided a grant of $2,654,895 for a project called “Integrating Informal STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Math) and Arts-Based Learning to Foster Innovation.” Students need flexible, creative minds for the 21st century, and merging math and sciences with arts, humanities and movement develops such a mind.

Vivi de Graff is the Communications Coordinator at Island Oak High School, where her daughter attended grades 11 & 12.

www.cleanchoicecleaners.com

Happy Holidays from drummer Allan Cameron. Now booking lessons for the New Year. 250 737 1757 atlasfunk@gmail.com Rowing in Maple Bay and then going to Saison Bakery, Richard Young, Huxter Design

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Kim Renée Coté

Solution Focused Professional Coach

Inspiration Motivation Creativity

Inis Meadows Coaching kim@inismeadowscoaching.com Winter Program * Women In Transition - Focus Group* Thursdays 10:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

Saturdays 10:30 a.m. - 12:00 p.m.

(250) 510-6726 • www.inismeadowscoaching.com • 3793 Gibbins Road, Duncan

Hypnotherapy is the way to use your subconscious mind to uncover and change patterns and habits that no longer serve.

Dream Choice Vacations And Cruise Creating Dream Vacations Worldwide

Book Cruises, Europe, Sun Destinations And More!

250-932-0010

Book by Dec 30 and receive a $20 gift certificate for hair or manicure at Remedy Salon, Lake Cowichan.

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Effective for: · Fears & Phobias · Stress Management ·Weight Release ·Smoking Cessation ·Pain Control ·Achieving Goals Lori Austein Clinical Hypnotherapist 250-597-7459 • laustein@shaw.ca

Curry and a Pint at Craigs Street Brew Pub for Lunch - Richard Badman, Cowichan Valley Voice

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Indoor Cycling “Baby, It’s Cold Outside”!

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he days are short and cold now and that means that it’s harder and harder to make yourself venture outside for a ride. I know that slippery roads, dark days, and freezing cold toes and fingers can sometimes stop me from getting out in the worst of it. But…we still need to get those hours in on the saddle.

So…even though you don’t really need to increase your fitness levels at this time of year, your focus should be to maintain a base level of cycling fitness. That’s where indoor cycling fits the bill.

The problem is….yup, there’s always a problem…it’s not easy to stay motivated when you’re cycling by yourself indoors. A few ways to keep indoor cycling from getting boring and monotonous are to play DVD’s that feature indoor cycling exercise programs or even last years

The Last MInute Christmas Craft Fair

Sundays in Dec 9,16,23 11am -3pm Clements Centre

5856 Clements St (off James Street) Duncan

Tour de France. (Not too long ago, David was watching the DTF cyclists going around a difficult downhill corner and he got so excited he rode right off his rollers…much to my amusement) Or ride indoors with a friend. Or join a local spin class.

You can purchase an indoor trainer from a local bike store and there numerous brands and types on the market. You can find a basic trainer or you may wish to get yourself a computerized trainer. Either way…the work you put into it is what counts. Make sure your bike dealer shows you how to set up your bike on the trainer correctly.

Then…think about implementing some interesting workouts for yourself. ‘Spin-Ups’, ‘Ladder intervals’, or the ‘Steady and Pump’ workout will give you a great session on the bike and the time will fly by. You can find examples on the internet.

Don’t let the cold weather get you down. See you on the road. And Merry Christmas!

Don’t Just Dream It Do It As a travel specialist I research many types of travel but every year Cruising becomes more and more popular. Travellers don’t just want to sit on a beach anymore they want to explore!

Cruising has become very popular because of all the history and sights you can see on one voyage. You unpack once and your floating hotel takes you to all the cities and adventures that you want to see.

There is a trend away from the larger ships and more to smaller boutique cruises.

Boutique cruises are smaller ships and yachts that carry fewer passengers so it means a more intimate travel experience.

The smaller vessals are able to dock in ports that the large ships can,t get into Azamara Club Cruises promotes its destination immersion spending more nights in destinations so you can really enjoy the local culture.

One of their special event cruises that caught my attention for you golf lovers is happening in July 2013. It is a 10 night cruise starting in Dublin. Golfers are able to play some renowned Scottish and Irish courses and see the British Open. With Christmas coming what a great gift for the man who has everything but ladies even if you do not golf there is plenty of pampering for you onboard. Some other unique theme cruises are with American Cruise Lines. They offer authentic paddlewheel cruises that takes guests on journeys into the American heartland and the wild west. River cruises in Europe have become a very popular way to see some of the great cities and the wonderful thing about river cruising is that you are able to dock right in the city and go exploring.

Imagine travelling up the river Seine to Paris or going to see the tulips in Amsterdam in the spring.

With luxury accomodations and world class cuisine it is a very relaxing vacation. I hope this gives you some travel inspiration as the world is waiting for you to explore Dont just dream it do it.

Amanda Clarke has created personalized dream vacations for 25 years. www.dreamvacationsandcruise.com

Sandra Beggs owns and operates Cycle Therapy in Duncan. wwwcycletherapy.ca

Don’t despair - come to the first ever Last Minute Christmas Markett, 3 Sundays in December. Fine food, beautiful art & skilled craft - all local & hand-made.

The fair is for all those last minute shoppers looking for high quality locally hand made products including jams and jellies, body care, art, jewellery, soap and much more. Come on down for 3 Sundays in Dec - 9, 16, 23!

Alderlea Farm Cafe, Hilary Else and artist Chantey Aldridge, Linda Dirksen Gale, Cowichan Valley Voice

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craft

Welcome to Sacred Mountain Studio for locally inspired art, giclee prints and functional gifts.

Nan GoodShip

Peter Spohn

Check the website for spring classes 250-746-4130

1529 Khenipsen Road, Duncan

www.sacredmountainstudio.com

Sacred Mountain Studio, located beneath Mount Tzouhalem is the home and workspace of Nan Goodship and Peter Spohn. Peter, a landscape painter whose prefered medium is oils, draws inspiration from our beautiful local environment and the Howe Sound area.

His focus for over 40 years has been capturing light and colour in thoughtful compositons that capture the essence of a place.

Nan’s range of creative expression encompasses ceramics, water colour and acrylic painting. Once upon a time, Nan began creating hand painted tile for her own home. This grew to encompass custom design for other peoples homes and businesses. Her abundant production now includes sinks, tables, countertops and joyful, functional ceramic dishes. Simultaneously, Nan has continued to paint images that reflect her love of life and nature. Both artists enjoy the stimulation of custom work to fulfill the aethetic desires of clients. Why not stop in to shop for Christmas? It is not too late to have a special ceramics piece made for that special someone.

Experience the Healing sounds of the Lakota Flute Learn to play Workshops, and Flute Circles in lovely Lake Cowichan

Medical Qi Gong Exercise Classes and Treatments at Harmony Yoga, Duncan

For information contact Rommy: 250-749-6563 or rommy.v@hotmail.com or visit the Duncan Market 9am - 2pm

Peter and Nan also love teaching and have done so for years. With an extensive educational background, they both bring their daily art practice into the service of students who want to experience the joy of creating. They have as much interest in encouraging students to experience the rich process of making art as in producing finished works. If you are interested in expanding your creative horizons or want to improve in areas you are already working in, please feel free to be in touch. Spring classes will be posted on their websites.

Go to www.CowichanValleyArtisans.com for more information about Sacred Mountain Studio, or find a brochure for the Cowichan Valley Artisans’ year-round studio tour, available at the Duncan Garage, 101 330 Duncan Street and at Experience Cycling, 482 Trans Canada Highway, Duncan.

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Chef Bill Jones favourites... Imagine That, Hillary’s Cheese, Cowichan Bay Seafoods, True Grain Bakery, Saison Market, Well

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ongtime Cowichan local, Zak Stolk, has been making handcrafted instruments for 25 years.

From his father, he gained an appreciation for traditional wood working, and was later introduced to instrument-making by Reid Hudson, a master bow maker.

Upon receiving a grant from the Canadian Council for the Arts, Zak studied under Peter Mach, a Cremona-trained luthier. He now produces an extraordinary array of hand-crafted instruments; violins, violas, cellos, mandolins, guitars, harps and more. Crafted in the old Italian tradition, using Zak’s personally-developed varnish recipe, he chooses woods such as sitka, spruce, and maple

Talking Arts • Cowichan Valley Instrument Makers

A Rommy Verlaan handcrafted flute.

harvested here on the West Coast.

Even more phenomenal are the instruments’ stunning carvings.

Zak also does repair work and sells refurbished instruments at reasonable prices, making them a great option for beginners and students. For more information, visit: www.zakviolins.com or call 250-749-6563 for repair inquiries.

range from $350 to around $2000. To learn more, visit www. gaiatoneinstruments.com or phone 250-701-0978.

Luthier, Zak Stolk in his workshop.

Massimo Pintus is an Italianborn musician and craftsman of “Gaia tone” instruments designed for making music, healing, meditation, and cleansing spaces. After working with Gahun – an ensemble focused on improvisation with “new music instruments” – Massimo began making his own “Gaia

tone” instruments which create a consciousness-shifting energy that he hopes will lead to a new spiritual age. They are forged from iron, copper, and brass, undergoing processes such as hammering, baking, and blacksmithing. A wide range of shapes allow each instrument to emit a completely unique sound.

Each one comes with a mallet and hanging structure. Massimo tunes his tubular bells, Om Tam gongs, and glockenspiels in different ways: diatonic, chromatic, pentatonic, Greek or Balinese-style scales. He provides custom work based on his clients’ needs, even building large “sound sculptures” both indoors and outdoors. Massimo’s creations

Rommy Verlaan has been creating hand-crafted flutes for seven years. Her journey began with the help of luthier Zak Stolk, and Cree singer-songwriter, Ed Peekeekoot. Rommy was transfixed by the sound of Ed’s hand-crafted flute and soon began making them herself. Since then, Rommy’s artistry and expertise has grown to amazing heights; she now makes flutes using an array of woods, either untuned or tuned in various minor keys.

“Soulful” is the word she uses to describe their sound. “My Lakota flutes are for anyone,” Rommy explains, whether or not you’re musically trained. She even has flutes suitable for children.

Rommy’s flutes are always available on her website. Prices vary depending on the flute’s wood, paint, carving, and tuning.

Her flutes can also be seen and heard at the workshops she holds during the spring and fall in Lake Cowichan with Ed Peekeekoot.

For more information, visit www.heartsongflutes.ca or email rommy.v@hotmail.com.

Amy Weinberg is a Cowichan Valley musician, writer, teacher and arts lover.

Gaia Tone Instrumentsnts, Massimo Pintus

Zak Stolk Violin Maker

25 Years Experience of Lutherie in the Italian Tradition.

Making and repair and restoration of Violins, Viola, Cello, Double Bass, Harp, and all manner of Stringed Instruments.

250-749-6563 zakviolins@shaw.ca www.zakviolins.com Bred, Providence Farm, Alderlea Farm, Makaria Farm, Averill Creek, Merridale Cidery, Hudson’s On First, Amuse, Bistro 161...

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COWICHAN FEATURE LISTINGS A GIFT TO REMEMBER RUNNING OUT OF IDEAS FOR A CHRISTMAS GIFT? Why not a Romantic Get-Away at a beautiful Bed and Breakfast overlooking Lake Cowichan.

awayatthelakebb.ca

Wine and flowers in your room and a gourmet meal arranged for you at an Italian Bistro in town just minutes away.

250-932-4655 Lake Cowichan

Want to learn how to make your own jewellery?

Etc! offers a wide range of classes from introductory classes in Beading, Kumihimo and Bead Weaving to more advanced techniques and workshops.

We have a fantastic range of beads and supplies as well as unique gifts.

Call for prices and dates 250 324 2227 New Hours Monday - Saturday 10 - 5 and Sunday 11 - 4

9747c Willow St, Chemainus 250 324 2227

Metal Artist Brad Allen

With a torch,welder and array of metal finishing tools, Brad creates joyful, nurturing and thought-provoking pieces.

- Metal Wall hangings - Free Standing Sculptures Studio located in Duncan by appointment Brad Allen 250 748 0934 www.meddleart.com High quality handwoven traditional rugs and carpets made by Tibetan refugees from Nepal.

Small World Imports Tibetan Rugs and Carpets www.smallworldimports.ca 250-748-6570

Enterprising

Women

A former instructor at Blanche MacDonald Centre for makeup, fashion and esthetics Diane Brown of AhZenya Spa has opened a new world of professional beauty for her Cowichan Valley clients. “We moved to the Cowichan Valley for the beauty and what the valley has to offer us as a family. There are so many things to do here with the beautiful trails and the river right across the street from our home and studio. As a single parent having a studio on my property makes being a full time parent and esthetician and business owner a harmonious balance.” exclaims Diane. “The space was created with both men and women in mind. A calm earthy balance modernized by a retro urban look.”

AhZenya is a Joico hair salon offering the latest hair styles, colours and uniquely designed gel nails. The spa specializes in Amore Skin Care, a Canadian company dedicated to a natural skin care line based only on what is healthy for the skin. No fillers, paraben or harsh chemical preservatives. The spa also offers Alexandria Professional hand sugaring - a safe, gentle and natural solution to hair extraction for women, men and children. The Alexandria technique and sugar paste extracts the hair in its natural direction of growth and does so when the hair is still in the early growth stage. It is gentle on the skin, completely hygenic and natural resulting in smooth, beautiful skin without the discomforts of other hair removal techniques.

Diane loves her work and it shows. “There has never been a day that I feel like its “work”. So many enjoyable clients passed through our doors sharing stories of family, friends and coworkers. It can be a moment filled with laughter or tears in our Zen spa.“ smiles Diane. Located in the North Cowichan area, the spa offers specials every month. Looking for a great gift or some pampering for the holidays?

Book in for hair, nails and esthetic AhZenya Spa and Hair needs before we book up!

3221 Gibbons Rd, Duncan Check us out on Facebook or come on in.

250-748 6060 FB AhZenya

Hand-knotted and made of 100% Tibetan wool in a family run venture that houses workers and educates children to alleviate poverty.

Our mission is to inspire, motivate and most of all... to have fun! We offer encouraging, experienced tap dance instruction for beginners to advanced of all ages.

Lynda Allen 250-748-0934 lyndaallentapstudio@shaw.ca

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Bringing kids for homemade pizza at Alderlea Farm Cafe, Adrienne Richards, Cowichan Valley Voice

Studio 2000 - Belly Dancing For Fitness and Fun

Angelihna

is a fit body, a connection to other women, relief from stress and happiness when sharing your joy with others”.

Debrajeenah

“Belly Dance is both a celebration of the female spirit and a physical display of the strength and beauty of women”

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n inspiring mother and daughter run dance studio, Angelina recalls the beginnings that inspired them to open their hearts to share belly dancing with everyone. “One day Mom invited me to a belly dance performance. I loved it so much I spoke with the instructor afterward. We started her beginner’s class the very next week. Our first instructor was Pnina Benyamini in Chemainus.”

As a trained yoga, fitness and belly dance instructor Angelina tells us that her goal is “ to help women connect with their feminine side and find joy through movement. The benefits of regular dancing

“Belly Dance is thousands of years old. Its roots can be traced to the rituals of matriarchal cultures of the eastern world. Secular entertainment evolved as performers traveled through India, Central Asia, the Middle East, North Africa and Spain.”

Instructor and belly dancer Debrajeenah shares.

Her own experiences troupe dancing eventually led to a solo career in both dancing and directing.

She is passionate about teaching women, of all ages, how to belly dance through fusion classes and workshops. She fuses a mix of movements from Gypsy, Turkish, Egyptian and Flamenco styles.

Angelina’s specialty is teaching American Tribal Style® a unique form of improvisational belly dancing. Dancers learn slow and fast moves, all of which have unique cues. The lead dancer interprets the music through chosen moves. All dancers cooperate as one - the leader cues and the other dancers follow. The leader is always changing so no dancer takes centre stage. Every woman is featured in a cohesive group that must cooperate with each other. Each dance is organic and created in the moment. - this is very different from traditional group choreography dances. ATS®, is influenced by dances from Spain, India, North Africa and Middle Eastern countries. The dance step vocabulary includes over 100 moves all with

distinct cues. Its costuming features 25 yard skirts, pantaloons, ethnic tribal jewelry, cholis (open back shirt), coin bra, tassel belts, and ornate headdresses.

Fatchancebellydance, the founding dance company of ATS®, is celebrating 25 years of dance this year.

Studio 2000 offers classes for women of all sizes, ages, ethnicities and walks of life. Classes encourage good posture, confidence, improves muscle coordination and balance. Women feel less judgmental about themselves and just have fun.

Looking for a unique gift for grandmother, mother, auntie, daughter, friend or sister this Christmas?

Belly Dance empowers women and helps them connect to their feminine side. It is a fun way to fitness and great way of meeting other women.

Added bonus is dressing up in beautiful costumes and adornments. Gift certificates from Studio 2000 can include classes, workshops or private lessons. Consider a belly dance party for an original theme for a wedding/baby shower or birthday. Call Angelina and Debrajeenah to make your gift extra special.

Danette Rodger, Registered Clinical Hypnotherapist

Christmas Special

Hypno-Baby Birthing™ Classes 4 Group Classes $249 (regular $325) Thursdays Starting Dec. 13 to Jan 11th.

6:30 - 8:30 p.m. located in South Chemainus

Call Danette to Register 250 709 7380

By appointment only, please call Danette or visit www.cowichanvalleyhypno.com for more information All the yummy treats at Utopia Bakery - Michelle King, Classic Marine, Cowichan Bay

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Thrifting in all the second hand shops! - Katherine Pallister, Zoe’s Cafe, Cowichan Bay

Favourite Local Buying Tip: Spend your first $25 on gifts in a local store.

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Buying perfect pieces of furniture at “Belongings� - Kim Robertson, Out of the Blue, Cowichan Bay

About Our Pets Winter and Holidays are here, routines are changing, it’s cold and rainy, stress may be rising - and our beloved dogs still need their regular walks.

Dogs with short or lacking hair appreciate wearing a coat when outside - if we are cold, then they are cold.

While outside, be aware of what your pet stops to eat or drink. Curious by nature, sometimes they are eating before we even realize. The most common toxin eaten is Antifreeze. Pets are attracted to the sweet taste, but it is very dangerous. Kidney damage starts in minutes, and as many as 88% of animals who ingest this will die - as little as one teaspoon will end the life of a cat, and a tablespoon can cause death in a 10lb dog. Duncan Auto Part, corner of Duncan Ave and James St. has been selling “Pet Friendly” Antifreeze for the past year. A bittering agent added to the product makes it very distasteful and repels animals.

Also remember to keep toxic plants and foods away from your pets - Lilies, Pointsettias, Narcissus, and Azeleas and any alcohol, chocolate, coffee, fatty foods, nuts, onions, raisins/grapes, salty foods or RAW garlic. I had an emergency night Vet appointment one time, and the bill was $300!

www.rainwaterconnection.com

TUNA TREATS (for cats or dogs) 1 can tuna in water (do not drain) 1 egg 3/4 cup whole wheat flour 3 garlic cloves (minced) Mix all ingredients, spread dough into 8” greased pan. Bake 350F for 20-30 minutes. Score rows so they are approximately size of a stamp for dogs and 1/2” for cats.

Once cool, break into squares and store in air tight container store in fridge or freeze

BOB BURGESS Tel 250.246.2155 Gulf Islands Rainwater Connection Ltd. Thetis Island, BC Email: bob@

rainwaterconnection.com

A cat toy you can make yourself: NO SEW CATNIP TOY: 4 x7 inch piece of soft fabric (fleece) 1 tsp catnip Place a teaspoon of catnip in the centre of the fabric. Carefully fold the fabric over the catnip lengthwise, so the fabric is still 7 inches long. Tie a knot (or secure otherwise) with the ends of the fabric and toss on the floor.

Dog toy you can make: ROPE PULL: Buy thick soft cotton rope 2-3 feet long from horse supply store.

Tie simple knot on end of rope that you will hang on to. On other end, tie several knots, then a nonslipping loop so your dog can hold onto that end.

Have a great and fun Christmas and Holiday season with your pets :>) Sheila Jones offers holistic consultations for both people and pets. www.holisticnc.ca

Large or small we feed them all.

Hours of operation Sun 10 - 4pm Mon - Sat 8:30am - 6pm

100% Fresh

100% Locally Owned and Operated

2800 Roberts Rd. Duncan (250) 746-5101, Fax (250) 597-0312 The $17 Sushi Platter for 2, Chemainus Sushi To Go, Stefan Borge, Amablis Forest Services

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One of the first things my spiritual teacher told me when he was beginning the instructions on World Metaphoric therapy was thisSoul lives outside the Self.

I was so startled by this statement that I wrote is down twice in my notes and then journaled more about it later. What did it mean?

Over the years this guidance has become one of founding principles for my counselling practice. Simply, this means that our souls are not bound up like a little ball inside our chests or heads. But in truth, our identity resides in the outside world as much as in our inner experiences.

This can understood more

deeply as we take metaphoric understanding from the events, people and relationships in the outside world. There is a synergy between our outer and inner worlds, and in a mysterious way, we create and call in the outside world as much as we create and interpret inner experiences.

Our highly industrial world at present dominates our thinking and activities from the moment we wake up till we sleep and slip back into the deep soul places where we came from. This world view has created a kind of monster machine who devours our consciousness and from day to day demands that we focus only on materialistic productive

Try This!

1. Each morning from now until spring equinox, go outside for a few moments before you start the day. Stand for a few moments and notice what the world is bringing to you that day.

2. Bring your awareness to the first thing that you notice. That is a message from your outer soul to your inner self. “This morning I notice the sound of wind chimes especially one that rarely rings because there is a northerly breeze.”

3. Now follow the message back to yourself. “The wind chimes mean expression. I am expressing something that is always there but is rarely heard. North is the place of meditation and reflection”

Image Cecelia Webber www.ceceliawebber.com

World Metaphoric Therapy work. This imbalance is being reflected in the outer world as natural disasters, wars, breakdown of social moral structures, dissolutions of families and healthy relationships, addictions and mental health illnesses such as depression and anxiety. A depressing litany of symptoms but each person can choose whether to feed the monster machine, or turn away and nourish their own spirituality as expressed by a practice of living in interconnectedness with all

beings.

However, this practice has been obscured and lost in modern times. We need to re-learn techniques for developing this connection with our inner most wisdom being. For guidance and support we can turn to those who are more practiced in these arts.

Julia Star is a spiriutal counsellor in the Cowichan Valley.

For appointments call 250 709 9673.

From Barefoot Days to Gumboot Days ing, hiking, roller blading, cycling, and certainly less time with bare feet. Unfortunately, when we reduce our exercise routines, we reduce our body’s production of endorphins.

Ever notice that most problems dissolve with sunshine and bare feet? But, as we are pushed into winter and less daylight each day and less time to exercise and spend time outdoors. It means more time sitting and less time gardening, running, walk-

Endorphins are known for triggering a positive feeling in the body and reducing the perception of pain. Regular exercise encourages body’s natural ability to resist anxiety and pads us against feelings of depression. It reduces

stress, improves sleep and improves self-esteem. But driving to work in the dark and returning in the dark can really reduce that urge to get off the couch.

Talking with someone that you trust and feel safe with can be a way to retain whole body health over the darker months. Other things that trigger positive endorphin release are positive self-talk, massage therapy, laughter and smiling, and even acting

Weekly Meditation at VIU Cowichan Campus

happy can increase a sense of well-being.

As we all haul out our gumboots this fall and the days get darker and rainier, do some self-care and try something new to increase your wellbeing throughout this season.

Sherry holds a Masters in Counselling Psychology and is a Registered Rehabilitation Professional and a Registered Clinical Counsellor in Ladysmith.

Website: www.VIRetreats.com

“During this season, remember a friend in need is often, someone who just wants to be listened to” Namaste ” & Peace Center Phone: 250. 710. 7594 Nichiren Buddha Society, VI Retreat Garden

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Cowichan Valley Voice Magazine - Eat, Drink and Buy Local This Holiday Season

Camping is generally something that families enjoy in the summertime, but living in such a mild climate, we are going to try and keep the fun alive over the winter months too.

December is a busy and exciting month for most of us filled with family, fun and holiday time. Along with this comes line-ups, dinner parties galore and the stress of what gifts to buy for whom. When we focus on what is most important to us and what we value we are better equipped to let the “fluff” of everyday life go and enjoy a more quality holiday experience.

If you find yourself caught up in the overwhelm of the holidays, come back to basics: check in with yourself and look at what your values are. What is most important to you? It’s much easier to do this if we remove ourselves from the external stimulus of everyday life, even if it’s brief, and take a moment to ourselves. Breathe deeply, paint, listen to a song you enjoy, walk, do yoga. Whatever it takes for you to be able to check in with yourself internally to recharge, refresh and feel like you again.

If something doesn’t jive with your values, let it go. It’s okay to say “no, but thanks for asking”.

It’s taking these moments to center ourselves that allow us to focus and spend our time and energies on what is most meaningful to us. This becomes increasingly important during times of heightened excitement and activity, like the holidays.

What do you want this holiday season to look like?

How can you make that happen?

Happy Holidays from the Coaches in Your Corner!

Sheila Walmsley

We purchased a 23 foot 5th wheel trailer in March of this year as its hard to head out camping in pouring rain, and pitch that little pup-tent.

Having a little home-awayfrom-home helps keep you warm and dry.

Recently we spent the weekend with our trailer at Bamberton Provincial Park campground.

With only one other group of campers there, we really had the place to ourselves. We arrived as dark set on Friday night, and got all settled. Our phones were switched off, and as soon as this happened, I felt myself relax.

Yes, the weather was rain, rain and more rain, but we stayed dry. Bamberton’s sites are beneath dense tree coverage, so even as we sat around the campfire and roasted marshmallows, we only felt the odd droplet of rain.

On Saturday we loaded Emily in the backpack and hiked down to the beach. It was windy and cool, but nice to see what Bamberton Beach showcases in the winter time.

Lots of colour on the ground from leaves, the tide was in, so the beach was slim, but lots of debris had been washed ashore.

We walked back up the road (the long way back) and spent the afternoon by the campfire.

Our daughter Emily is now

Local Winter Camping two years old, she spent the weekend playing with leaves and sticks and chasing our dog Fredrick around. This was her 1st camping trip in the rain, she was suited up in rain gear and boots and the dampness bothered her none.

Bamberton is open through the winter months the services are less (the fee is also less too).

There is no running water, and no security other than the people living in the house near the entrance. I suggest camping with a group to keep safe.

Check out the website and see for yourself, http://www.env. gov.bc.ca/bcparks.

See you out there!

Meghan lives and works in the South Cowichan area. She spends her spare time writing about the outdoor fun they have.

Rob’s Lighthouse Eatery & Art Gallery Fresh, friendly, affordable and pet-friendly!

• Fish, Veggie and Beef Burgers • Fresh-cut Fries • Fish & Chips • Lavazza Espresso and more!

Dine In on our heated patio or Take Out!

Cowichan Bay Waterfront Favourite Local Buying Tip: Spend your first $25 on gifts in a local store.

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WEBSITES, EMAILS AND VERBAL LINT WHOLE LOTTA SHAKEY GOIN’ ON: Recorded in their home studio in Crofton Are You True To Me features 11 spirited folk/blues/jazz originals performed by husband and wife duo Shakey Reay and Corry Suter and some talented friends, collectively known as Shake n’ Cor & the Bonetones. In addition to the empathetic interplay of Shakey’s harmonica and Corry’s vocals the disc features Sandy Smith (drums), Dave Dykhuizen (guitar) and Keith Picot (stand-up bass). My personal faves: “Happy Blues” (a playful little ditty with a warm, affectionate vocal by Corry, Dave stretching out on guitar, Sandy contributing some fine brushwork and a suitably inspired harmonica solo by Mr. Reay) and “Rain in Paris” (originally a track by the Suters’ former group, Little Blue Planet, the new version comes with tasty cornet solo by guest musician Chris Whitely). There is a great community vibe on this homemade disc. These folks obviously enjoy each other’s company and musical skills and it shows. The disc is available in Crofton at Ocean Soul Book Caffe and online at www.cdbaby.com. (Just type shake n’ cor into the search engine.) You can also sample some of the tracks at www.reverbnation.com/ shakencorthebonetones.

JINGLE BELL POP: The Smiley Sisters will be performing all your Yuletide favorites once again this year at BC Forest Discovery Center in Duncan.

Smiley is actually the sisters’ maiden name.

Although Shannon and Shelley certainly live up to the moniker with vivacious personalities and lots of holiday cheer. You can see the girls in action from 5 pm - 8:30 pm Dec. 8, 9, 15 th, 16th & 17th. PS Both Shannon and Shelley are former members of touring retro rock act The Timebenders.

C’MON TRAIN: Lead singer Virginia Blatchford reminds everyone Luv Train is steaming into Mt. Brenton’s Golf Course New Years Bash for the third year in a row! (“It’s like a great house party!”) For more info on the band check out www.luvtrain.ca .

(They also have a new EP of original songs. More about that in next month’s column.)

Jean Crowder has been the NDP Member of Parliament for Nanaimo-Cowichan since 2004.

Crowder.J@parl.gc.ca 1-866-609-9998

Over the last year many telephone, internet, TV and other companies have introduced new monthly charges on customers who continue to receive a paper copy of their bill in the mail.

New Democrats have launched a campaign to eliminate extra charges for receiving a monthly bill in the mail so consumers are not forced to pay just to pay their bills.

They are calling on the government to prohibit these ‘Pay-to-Pay’ fees that unfairly target Canadian seniors, and Canadian families already struggling to pay their bills, as well as those who do not have regular access to the internet or do not feel comfortable performing such transactions online.

Here in the Valley, many people do not have sufficient connectivity to do online transactions. And our high senior population means we have many people who might be affected by this unfair practice.

While some companies have claimed charging for paper bills is an attempt to reduce paper; they never offered a discount for customers that use online billing.

Instead they’ve moved to penalize those customers who can’t easily make the transition to doing business online.

For more info on this unfair practice or to sign the petition asking government to prohibit pay-to-pay fees visit www. stoppaytopayfees.ca.

WINGS III Opportunity Store You’ll always find a treasure!

Donations Gratefully Accepted

Bring your quality womens and childrens clothing, natural fibres, household gadgets, jewelry, nick nacks and small furniture.

250 746 9906 Open Mon - Sat 10am - 5pm 193 Station St at Jubilee, Downtown Duncan

Delicious East Indian Cuisine Butter Chicken Curry Chicken Vegetarian Specialties Chana Masala Pakoras Samosas

By Rick Dennis

Drive Safely This Holiday Season.

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Crowder’s Corner

The Daily Grind Dine in or Take Out 3218 Sherman Road • 250-709-2299

Cowichan Valley Voice Magazine - Eat, Drink and Buy Local This Holiday Season

Science Matters with David Suzuki

Will We Learn From Sandy?

T

he storm that wreaked havoc on Caribbean nations and the U.S. East Coast in late October offers a glimpse into our future.

Along with recent heavy rainfall, flooding, heat waves and droughts throughout the world, it’s the kind of severe weather event scientists have been telling us to expect as global temperatures rise.

Does that mean climate change caused Hurricane Sandy? No. Experts know that tropical Atlantic storms are normal this time of year. This one and its impacts were made unusually harsh by a number of converging factors: high tides, an Arctic weather system moving down from the north and a high-pressure system off Canada’s East Coast that held the storm in place.

But most climate experts are certain the intensity of the storm and the massive damage it caused were in part related to changing global climate, attributed mainly to our habit of burning fossil fuels as quickly and inefficiently as possible. Global warming causes sea levels and ocean temperatures to rise, which results in more rainfall and leads to a higher likelihood of flooding in lowlying areas.

Scientists also believe this year’s record Arctic sea-ice melt may have contributed to the highpressure system that prevented

Sandy from moving out to sea. In short, the storm and the unprecedented flooding and damage are exactly what climate scientists have been predicting.

Extreme weather events, including heat waves and drought, are no longer just model-based predictions, though.

NASA scientist James Hansen, who sounded the alarm about climate change in 1988, recently wrote in the Washington Post, “Our analysis shows that it is no longer enough to say that global warming will increase the likelihood of extreme weather and to repeat the caveat that no individual weather event can be directly linked to climate change.

To the contrary, our analysis shows that, for the extreme hot weather of the recent past, there is virtually no explanation other than climate change.”

The damage that climate change is causing and that will get worse if we fail to act goes beyond the hundreds of thousands of lives, homes and businesses lost, ecosystems destroyed, species driven to extinction, infrastructure smashed and people inconvenienced. It will even devastate the one thing that many corporate and government leaders put above all else: that human creation we call the economy – the very excuse many of our leaders use to block environmental protection and climate action.

According to Hansen, the Texas drought in 2011 alone caused $5 billion in damage. Repairing the damage from Sandy in the U.S. is expected to cost at least $50 billion. And as former World Bank economist Lord Stern has pointed out, slowing climate change will cost, but doing nothing will be cost far more.

And yet, in the U.S. presidential election, one candidate openly mocked climate science while the other all but ignored it. In Canada, our government’s highest priority is to quickly extract and sell tar

sands bitumen so that it can be burned up, mostly by China, which will further fuel global warming.

Some solutions are relatively simple and would provide economic benefits: implementing measures to conserve energy, putting a price on carbon through taxes and cap-and-trade and shifting from fossil fuels to clean and renewable energy sources. Some may require a bit of sacrifice for people in the wealthiest parts of the world – substantially cutting down on automobile use and air travel and shifting from rampant consumerism to a more conservative way of living, for example.

Much of this requires rethinking

Favourite Local Buying Tip: Spend your first $25 on gifts in a local store.

the ways we measure progress and govern our economies.

That’s what we’ve always done when our tools no longer fit our circumstances. But it’s just not compatible with rapid tar sands expansion and governing for the sake of the fossil fuel industry.

Even the Conference Board of Canada says we can rapidly expand tar sands production or we can do something about global warming – but not both.

Thus, we see a mad rush to get the bitumen out of the ground and sell it quickly before it becomes economically unfeasible.

For the sake of our health, our children and grandchildren and even our economic well-being, we must make protecting the planet our top priority.

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Healthy Breakfasts and Lunches For The Holidays

Z

A

Y t y a A a s h s l y m “ h

The Garage Cafe offers lunch and breakfast starting at 7:30am every day of the week!

Check out our sample menus for an idea of what delectable vegetarian, vegan & gluten-free foods we offer.

Breakfast offerings include local, free-range eggs, hot and cold cereals, home-made bread and stick-to-your-ribs specials, as well as a full array of organic coffees, teas, juices, and specialty drinks.

Our lunch menu includes healthy soups, comforting casseroles, wraps & quesadillas, sandwiches, pizza, salads, and creative daily specials. We use whole grains, local, and organic produce, the finest cheeses and a wide variety of seasonings to make mouth watering, soul-satisfying food your sure to love.

Feel free to pull up a chair in our friendly eating area or we can make you something to go. We will do our best to accommodate people with specialized dietary needs.

After nine years creating delicious food with care, attention and love, we’re sure you’ll enjoy eating with us.

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Cowichan Valley Voice Magazine - Eat, Drink and Buy Local This Holiday Season

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

Aries (March 21-April 19)

You’ll love this month. You’re the pioneer of the zodiac and you love exploring new activities and meeting unusual people.

And that’s what this month is all about. Expect chances to learn something new. Enjoy study, new hobbies or best of all – travelling someplace exciting. The bottom line is you want to broaden your horizons and make life more intellectually stimulating!

“Whiskey for everyone and fresh horses for my men!”

Taurus (April 20-May 20)

You’re the financial wizard of the zodiac. This month, you’ll be interested in the financial resources of others and to handle shared property, debt, taxes, insurance matters and inheritances. Get these loose details wrapped up. Get fuzzy boundaries defined. But on a more subtle level, you’ll want to experience life more deeply. You might become interested in the psychology of who you are and what makes you tick. You know that life is like a 10-speed bicycle and most of us have gears we never use. “On your left!”

Gemini (May 21-June 20)

This month, the Sun is as far away from you as it ever gets (and the Sun is your source of energy) so you need more sleep!

Factoid. However, this opposing Sun also makes you focus more on your style of relating to others, especially partners and close friends. That’s why this is your best chance all year to examine how you fill the needs

of others and vice versa. It’s also an excellent time to form partnerships or working units or consult experts on any subject.

Looking for a good 24-hour taxidermist?

Cancer ( June 21-July 22)

You’ll find it easy to work this month. You’ll enjoy putting out the effort to get things done.

You’ll take pride in being efficient and effective. You’ll be gratified by the results of your efforts. Yeah, yeah, this sounds like a heavy sell to make you work – but it’s the truth. We all love to have fun. But the satisfaction we get from accomplishing something with our own efforts is really special! Get the right tools to do a good job.

Buy shelving, file folders, cleaning equipment, paint or whatever you need. Just do it.

Leo ( July 23-Aug. 22)

A hey, nonny nonny month ahead! Slip away on a vacation this month. Even if you can’t, you’ll savour leisure time socializing, seeing movies, sports events and enjoying the company of others. Romance and love affairs will sparkle! Many of you will also delight in playful activities with children. Not only will you have a strong drive to get out and have a fun time, you will sense it’s perfectly appropriate to just be yourself. Let it all hang out, babes

Virgo (Aug. 23-Sept. 22)

Your focus now shifts to home and family. You might become more involved with a parent. If you’re not involved with family activities, you might cocoon at home. You’ll enjoy being in familiar surroundings because you want to feel snug and secure. Since this is a time when childhood memories will bubble to the surface, some of you might see counsellors or write that tell-all autobiography you’ve been threatening to do.

Libra (Sept. 23-Oct. 22)

This month, your daily pace will accelerate. Actually, you’ll love this fast rhythm as you juggle short trips, run errands, see siblings and relatives and talk to everyone. Plus, you will read and write more than usual. One of the reasons you’re spreading yourself so thin is you have a strong desire to enlighten others about something. You have something you want to say! You’re intellectually alive, mentally alert and very keen to explain your actions and where you’re coming from.

Scorpio (Oct. 23-Nov. 21)

In the next month, you’ll assess your sense of self-worth. We are shockingly self-critical nowadays.

I call this the paralysis of the negative. It’s considered chic to criticize movies, the arts, literature and architecture to sound educated or intellectual.

I say, phooey! How did we get to the point where we ridicule a positive, sunny, accepting attitude? Yu’re worth everything!

Without you, there is nothing. If you want to help others, you have to be strong and healthy.

Sagittarius (Nov.22-Dec.21) This month the Sun is in your sign for the first time in a year, bringing you a chance to recharge your batteries for the next 11 months. Plus, this solar energy will attract favourable circumstances and powerful people to you. Yes, it’s all about you! It’s okay to be self-centered.

Put your own needs first.

Think about what you want.

Acknowledge your need to express yourself, which is just fine. Naturally, this self-centered focus can create problems with partners. (“What am I, chopped liver?”)

December

Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan. 19)

Your personal year is ending because your birthday is one month away. That’s why this is the perfect time to look back over your shoulder and ponder how well you’re doing at the art of living. Are you pleased with how things unfolded last year? What changes do you want to introduce in your new year? If you write down some of the goals you want to achieve in the coming year, this simple act will make it far more likely that you will actually achieve them. Now you know where you want to go and what you want to do. A plan!

Aquarius ( Jan. 20-Feb. 18)

It’s a popular month and who loves to network more than you?

This is not the time to sit at home navel gazing. Au contraire!

Leave your home and interact with others. Friendships will be important. Not only that, all kinds of group efforts will stir your blood! You will love joining forces with others to work for a meaningful goal, especially something charitable or something that makes the world a better place. (Remember: A true friend is one who likes you despite your achievements.)

Pisces (Feb. 19-March 20)

This month is the only time all year when the Sun crosses over the top of your chart casting you in the limelight. Others will notice you more than usual, especially bosses, parents, VIPs and – take note – the police.

Fortunately, this lighting is flattering so most of these people will see you in positive terms, which is why you will be asked to take on increased responsibilities.

This could be one of the best times of the year to examine your life and figure out if you’re headed in the direction you want to go. Hmmm?

www.georgianicols.com

Local Buying Tip: Spend firstus $25 gifts in a local store.

InterestedFavourite in contributing to the Valley Voice?your E-mail at on editor@cowichanvalleyvoice.com

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DIRECTORY Studio 2000

Valley Voice Magazine now offers readers a new directory to discover local services and businesses. 2 sizes of ad space are available to suit every business message and budget. Affordable, stylish and straight to the point. Contact Adrienne Richards for more info 250 510 6596 or adrienne@cowichanvalleyvoice.com Deadline December 15 for January 2013 Issue 50.

Belly Dancing

Angelina ~ 250-710-8161 or angepete@shaw.ca Tuesdays ~ 5:30pm & 6:45pm

Belly Dance

Thursdays ~ New Level 1 Class 5:30pm & 6:45pm

Level 1, 2 and 3 ATS®

Debrajeenah ~ 250-748-3148 or debrajeen@shaw.ca Mondays ~ 1:30pm ~ Ongoing Wednesday ~ 7:00 pm ~ Beginners Fun Fusion Belly Dance

Beauty and Hair Salon Services

Business Services

Nika’s Natural Hair & Relaxation Salon haircuts for the whole family color & hi-lites (featuring eco-colors) hair and scalp treatments Matraea Centre all natural products 170 Craig Street Duncan 250 710-7339

Child Care

Counselling Individual and couple counselling services.

Need childcare?

Taking care of children?

Call the Cowichan Valley Child Care Resource & Referral 250-746-4135 local 231

Sophie Barbant - Hayward, M.A. Registered 331 St. Julian Street Professional Counsellor Duncan, BC Bilingual French and English 250- 510 - 0182

Domains & Hosting

Farms and Food More than a Meat Shop

Web. Domains & Hosting Services

Gluten Free/Organic Pasta’s, Organic Meat, Homemade Sausage, International Foods.

WEB HOST Richard Badman rbadman@gearth.com 250.746.9319 Duncan, BC

The Duncan Butcher 430 Trans Canada Hwy 250 748 -6377

The Valley’s 1st Certified Organic/Biodynamic Community Supported Agriculture Program Year round availability or 24 weeks Come eat at our Organic Farm Cafe - Child, Celiac and Vegan friendly!

Alderlea Farm and Cafe Open Tues, Fri, Sat, 11am-6pm 3390 Glenora Road, Duncan, 250 597 3438 Special seating for family meals!

Health and Healing For more information on how to be part of the

VALUE 2013 Valley Voice Directory Call Adrienne Richards 250 510 6596 or e-mail adrienne@cowichanvalleyvoice.com

Downtown Ladysmith

Marilyn Swallow RMT RA Sherry Bezanson BSW, M.Ed., RCC John Carter DOM (250) 245 9269 / 714 5044

www.wildflowernaturalhealth.ca

Reflexology and Chi Wellness by Terri

Foot Reflexology, Indian Head Massage, Reiki, Spiritual Healing & Therapeutic Touch

GIVE THE GIFT OF HEALTH FOR CHRISTMAS

Terri 1453 Algonkin Rd, Duncan 250 709-2388 • www.terriswellness.com

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3-1 hour relaxation sessions of your choice for $159.00 (Gift Certificates Available)

Cowichan Valley Voice Magazine - Eat, Drink and Buy Local This Holiday Season

Health and Healing (continued) Vitamin And Herbal Supplements Organic Bulk Foods & Herbs Health & Beauty Aids Herbal Medicine & Food For 4-180 Central Duncan Dogs And Cats (Located Beside Sears in Village Sports Nutrition & Weight Loss Snack Bar Green Mall) 250 748-4421

IN THE HEART OF DOWNTOWN 141 Craig Street, Duncan 250 748-9632 www.mercias.ca

SENIORS!

15% Discount Every Day! on Supplements *Unless Already Reduced Last Tuesday of Every Month Seniors receive 15% off most food items as well as supplements.

•A Large Variety Of Supplements, Flower Remedies •Homeopathics, Tinctures •Aura-Soma Colour Therapy, Bath and Body Products •Hair Care Products, Specialty Creams, Bulk Soap and More!

•Duncan’s Largest Selection Of Bulk Medicinal Herbs Amazing Lines Of Professional Natural Cosmetics including: Zuii Organics Make Up and ZUZU Luxe: luxury color cosmetics line - spa inspired - VEGAN!

Home Maintenance

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Music Lessons Allan Cameron B.Sc., Diploma in Music (Jazz Studies) Drum Set and Percussion Lessons Specializing in Rock, Funk, Latin and Jazz Drumset And Afro-Cuban percussion.

250-737-1757 atlasfunk@gmail.com

Creative MUSIC Programs building a strong foundation for

Toddlers & Children,Youth & Family Marimba Classes woodruffmusic@gmail.com

www.woodruffmusic.ca

Professional Writing Services Maeve Maguiire www.describewriting.com maeve@describewriting.com

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

Freelance Writing Services: Website Content Promotional Communications Technical Writing

Prenatal Yoga Mats Memory foam yoga mat PVC Free. Ideal for pre/postnatal yoga, pilates and those who need more support.

Vernice Vita Yoga Mats Richard Badman 250 746 9319

Favourite Local Buying Tip: Spend your first $25 on gifts in a local store.

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Cowichan Valley Voice Magazine - Eat, Drink and Buy Local This Holiday Season