February 2019 Issue 123 by Cowichan Valley Voice

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FEBRUARY 2019 ISSUE 123 LOCAL PRESCHOOL & KINDERGARTEN I CARING ABOUT COMMUNITY FORESTS I LOVE LOVE LOVE 1

The Secret of The Six Mountains

Image Chris Istace, www.ChrisIstace.com

Tzouhalem, Prevost, Maple, Richards, Sicker, Stoney Hill

A Community Assembly for The Public Forests Emceed by Guy Dauncey Eco-Futurist and Author of Journey to the Future: A Better World Is Possible

Featuring Presentations, Film and Special Guest Speakers

March 5 â&#x20AC;¢ 7:00pm Cowichan Performing Arts Centre 2687 James St, Duncan For more information go to

www.WhereDoWeStand.ca 3

VINOTECA AT ZANATTA

2 Vineyard Pruning 101 11-12pm Blue Grouse Estate Winery www. bluegrouse.ca FREE

singer-songwriter, blues and gospel traditions 7:30pm Duncan Showroom, 131 Station St Duncan $18 door $15 adv.

2 Vancouver Island Vixens 8pm $20 advance

6 Open Mic and Jam with Beverley McKeen, host7:00 - 10:00pm River Rock Bar and Grill, Ramada Inn, Duncan, BC Free admission also 13/20

2 Seed Starting Seminar 10-11am Dinter Nursery 2205 Phipps Rd FREE 3 Dockside Drive Pat’s House of Jazz Osborne Bay Pub 1534 Joan Ave Crofton $20 3 Sunday EATS! 12-3pm Blue Grouse Estate Winery www. bluegrouse $10-$20 also 10/17/24

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

3 Quaker (Friends) silent meeting 10:30am St. Ann’s Garden Club @Providence Farm cowichanvalley.quaker. ca FREE also 17

Event Shuttle Available through

vinoteca.ca

5039 Marshall Rd, Duncan I 250 709 2279 1 Kindergarten Open House 9-11amDuncan Christian School, 495 Beech Ave, Duncan 250 746 3654 1 Black Angus Celtic Music 8pm Osborne Bay Pub 1534 Joan Ave Crofton osbornebaypub.com $10 1 Collective Space Movie Night: How to Change the World w/ Q&A by Greenpeace’s Eduardo Sousa 630pm Collective Space 166 Station St collectivespace.org $12 1 Old Man Luedecke Live in the Chapel 7pm The Chapel at Providence Farm 1843 Tzouhalem Rd $20 2 Blue Moon Marquee w/Ryan McNally 9pm EventBrite.com $15 adv $20 2 Soup Saturdays 12-3pm Blue Grouse Estate Winery www. bluegrouse.ca $16 also 09/16/23

3 Tanya Tripp on “Screech Owls” 930am Fish Health Bldg 1080 Wharncliffe Rd $2

4 Team Registration for BOWL FOR KIDS SAKE Fundraiser Mar 3 Duncan Lanes Session 1@12:30pm Session 2@3pm 250 748-2447 4 Now For Something BIG Mon-Fri 11-5pm Sat 12-3pm PORTALS Island Savings Ctr 2687 James St www.cowichanvalleyartscouncil. ca FREE runs to 27 5 Queen of Angels School Open House & Kindergarten Information Session Open House1-4pm/ KG Info 4-5pm For info call 250 746 5919 6 Body Resonance Meditation & Crystal Sound Bath w/Venita 930-1030am Sun Room@SOL CENTRE sparkthelight@gmail.com $44/4 classes or $15 drop-in also 13/20/27 6 Pat Wictor w/guest members of the Gettin’ Higher Choir from Victoria slide guitar work,

7 Sea Squirts Nature Stories and Activities for 0-6 year olds, 11-12pm Cowichan Estuary Nature Centre, 1845 Cowichan Bay Rd Cowichan Bay FREE also 14/21/28 7 Handwork & Knitting Mentoring Thursdays The Freya-Sophia Waldorf Store, 10 - 4pm also 4/21/28. 250-597-4763 7 Watercolor painting class with Josef Graf, Mercury Room at the Sol Centre, Thursdays, 7 - 9 p.m. $20 per person per class. 14/21/28. jgraf5@yahoo.ca. 7 Ashley MacIsaac & Quinn Bach and Christian Reformed Church, 930 Trunk Rd.Doors: 6:45pm Show: 7:30pm Tickets $35 7 Emily Braden Quartet featuring Misha Piatigoesky LIVE from New York Duncan Showroom 131 Station St, Duncan 8pm…$30 door $25 advance 8 The Neil Young Show Osborne Bay Pub 8pm 1534 Joan Ave Crofton osbornebaypub.com $15 adv/$20 door 8 Bride McWilliam, recent graduate of the Eurythmy School of Spring Valley New (NY) explores the art of Eurythmy 7:30 pm Sol Centre, 5380 Hwy. 1 Duncan Suggested donation pp $10 250-597-4763 9 Sunrise Waldorf School Preschool Open House 10am12pm 2148 Lakeside Rd, Duncan Please RSVP admissions@ sunrisewaldorfschool.org 250 743-7253 9 Winter Spirit Community Dance Masimba Marimba & Enrapture Events Live music and DJ’s all ages 7-11:45pm $20 (sliding scale) Children Free

9 Basic Fruit Tree Pruning Seminar 10-11 am, Dinter Nursery 2205 Phipps Rd Duncan FREE 9th Harlequin Dance, 6pm Midnight, Lake Cowichan Seniors Centre 55 Coronation St Lake Cowichan $20 (250) 748-7000 cwav@cwav.org 9 REDress Project All day, Charles Hoey Park, 124 Canada Ave Duncan www.warmlandwomen. org FREE 9 Cowichan Folk Guild Monthly Coffeehouse Duncan United Church 246 Ingram St. Doors 7pm Open stage 7:30pm w/Heartwood the new duo of Jack Connolly and Genevieve Charboneau Admission $5 CFG Members $10 non-members 9-22, CVAC’s Youth Outreach Program (YOP) Annual Show of student works Mon-Fri 11-5 Sat Noon-3 the Arbutus Gallery, Island Savings Ctr FREE 10 Misha Piatigorsky Upstairs Lounge, Blue Grouse Winery 6pm $35 10 Auction Sunday La Petite Auction House 1pm (same day viewing from 10am) 9686 Chemainus Rd 250 701-2902 10 Second Sunday Market Eagles Hall, 2965 Boys Rd, Duncan 10-3pm Everyone Welcome! 250-701-3979 FREE 10 Second Sunday Brunch, 11AM Blue Grouse Estate Winery www. bluegrouse.ca/Events 10, Chemainus Classical Concerts: William Feasley, guitar 2pm, St. Michael’s Church, Chemainus. $25/$10 Adv. $18 250-748-8383 www.ChemainusClassicalConcerts. ca 10 Swinging vocalist Sue Newman, Pat’s House of Jazz, Osborne Bay Pub, 1534 Joan Ave. Crofton $15. 10 Cowichan Music Festival Piano sessions: 2pm/7pm Duncan Fire Dept. Hall, 468 Duncan St. $3

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11 Film: The Fits 6:30 VIU Lecture Theatre 2011 University Way, Duncan By donation www.virl.ca Fabulous Films & VIRL 11-12 Cowichan Music Festival Piano sessions: 9am /1pm/7pm Duncan Fire Dept.Hall, 468 Duncan St.02/12 9am only $3 11-15 Cowichan Music Festival Vocal: classical voice 9am /1pm/7pm Duncan United Church, 246 Ingram St. $3 12 & 13 Cowichan Music Festival 9am only - Choirs are performing at the Cowichan Performing Arts Centre, Cowichan Theatre, 2687 James St. Duncan $3 12 Cowichan Valley Prostate Cancer Support Group — Coffee Hour 2pm Canadian Cancer Society 103–225 Canada Avenue (Canada Building) FREE 13 Chemainus Art Group Meet Up 9:30 am Saltair Community Centre 3850 South Oyster School Road, Ladysmith Guest artist Kathryn Fudge new members welcome 14 It’s All About Love’ with The Edie Dupont Quartet - Dinner & Show 7 pm Osborne Bay Pub 1534 Joan Avenue, Crofton, www. osbornebaypub.com $60 p 14 Support group for grandparents and others raising the child of a relative. Confidential 6:30 - 8:30 pm Duncan1-877-345-9777 Free 15 Tolkien’s Lord of the Rings w/ Mark McGivern, educator Exploring the influence of British anthroposophist Owen Barfield 7:30pm Sol Centre, 5380 Hwy. 1, Duncan. Suggested donation $10 pp 250-597-4763 15 Valentine Couples Dinner & Demo, 6- 9PM Blue Grouse Estate Winery $150 per couple www. bluegrouse.ca/Events 15: Collective Space Movie Night: Unrest, 6:30pm, Collective Space, 166 Station St Duncan $12, collectivespace.org/hooviemovie 16 Freedom Gospel Choir presents JOY w/ Maureen Washington, 2pm Duncan Christian Reformed Church www.freedomgospelchoir. ca 16 Quadra Sound w/ Guest Boy Leadfoot - Alternative Rock 9pm Osborne Bay Pub 1534 Joan Avenue, Crofton $10 adv/$15 door 16 Composting 101 Seminar 10-11am Dinter Nursery 2205 Phipps Rd, Duncan FREE 16 Master Gardener Clinic 10am-3pm Dinter Nursery 2205 Phipps Rd Duncan FREE

16 Free Yin Yoga Class w/ Nadia 6-7:30pmHarmony Yoga Centre, 360 Duncan St. Duncan, www. HarmonyYogaDuncan.com 17 ANTHROPOSOPHICAL EXPLORATIONS w/Josef Graf All levels 4-8:30pm at the Sol Centre, Mercury Room jgraf5@yahoo.ca also 17/24 by donation 17 Ralph Barrat croons Sinatra at Pat’s House of Jazz, Osborne Bay Pub, 1534 Joan Ave Crofton $15. 19 Cowichan Music Festival Strings: sessions at 9am/1pm Duncan United Church, 246 Ingram St. 19, Randal Mindell “Fossil Forests of Vancouver Island” 7pm, Fish Health Bdlg, 1080 Wharncliffe Rd Bring a mug and toonie 20 Cowichan Beekeepers Meeting 6:30pm beginners beekeeper Q&A 7pm Start Island Savings Centre, 2687 James St Duncan 21 Cowichan History Society w/ guest speaker Lynn Starter, Maple Bay author & historian 7:30pm, St. Peter’s Quamichan Church Hall, 5800 Church Rd Duncan FREE/ donations welcome 19-21 Cowichan Music Festival Musical Theatre: songs from musicals over the years 7 sessions in Heritage Hall 12:30pm Duncan United Church, 246 Ingram St. $3 21: Cowichan Music Festival Bands: Elementary and Secondary School 9:15 am Cowichan Performing Arts Centre, Cowichan Theatre, 2687 James St. $3 22 HUB Film Club “RBG”– The Justice For All (Ruth Bader Ginsberg documentary) USA 2018 Rated G, 7pm The HUB at Cowichan Station 2375 Koksilah Rd Admission with membership or by donation hubfilmclub@gmail. com or visit facebook 22 Understanding Fairy Tales and Children’s Drawings in the light of Anthroposophy w/ Monica Gold, art therapist 7:30 p.m. Sol Centre, 5380 Hwy 1, Duncan Suggested donation $10pp 250-597-4763 22 The Unfaithful Servants The Chapel at Providence Farm 1843 Tzouhalem Rd. Doors 7pm/ Show7:30pm Tickets $20 22-24 — Kick Off - Connected Living personal growth seminar series “The Core Awakening”, a four weekend experiential program designed to awaken your Core Sense of Self, and to support you in becoming who you truly are! For infoShawna Hett 250.709.5501 www.connectedlivingseminars.ca 23 Russell Marsland Raven Blackwell & The Chosen Few 8pm Osborne Bay Pub, 1534 Joan Ave

$20 adv/$25door Reservations Recommended 23 Fruit Tree Propagation Workshop 10-11:30 am Dinter Nursery 2205 Phipps Rd, Duncan $15 Registration Required 24 Auction Sunday La Petite Auction House 1pm - same day viewing from 10am 9686 Chemainus Rd 250 701-2902

SUNDAY AFTERNOONS

24 Guitarist Astrid Lyre’s Trio electrifies at Pat’s House of Jazz, Osborne Bay Pub 1534 Joan Ave. Crofton $15

February 3 2PM I $20

DOCKSIDE DRIVE

Swingin’ singin’ dancin’ eight-piece show band.

24th, Beer and Burger Fundraiser - Return of the Great Blue Heron Proceeds go to the Cowichan Estuary Nature Centre - 5 - 8pm, Cowichan Bay Pub, 1695 Cowichan Bay Rd, $25 (Drink/Burger/Side) 22-27 Cowichan Music Festival Dance:Sessions 1pm/6:30pm/7pm (no session on 02/26) 26 Reel Alternatives Film in support of Cowichan Hospice: COLETTE 7pm Cowichan Performing Arts Centre, 2687 James St. Duncan $14 27 Cowichan Valley Cancer Support Group 10:30 am – 12 noon Canadian Cancer Society, 103–225 Canada Avenue (Canada Building) FREE

February 10 2PM I $15

VOCALIST SUE NEWMAN’S BAND

Early jazz to Motown with shades of blues, rock & soul. February 17 2PM I $15

CROONER RALPH BARRAT

Brings his quartet featuring Tom Vickery on piano with Sinatra, Torme and Darin hits. February 24 2PM I $15

JAZZ GUITARIST ASTRID LYRE Fronts electrifying new trio with a bold modern sound.

Osborne Bay Pub 1534 Joan Ave, Crofton

27 Chemainus Art Group Meet Up 9:30 am Saltair Com Centre 3850 South Oyster School Road, Ladysmith new members welcome 27&28 West Side Story - Musical - 7:30pmT Gil Bunch Centre for the Performing Arts, Brentwood College School Ticket online: theatre.brentwood.bc.ca. 28 Ready, Set, Learn event for parent, guardians and 3-5 year olds 5:30 – 6:30pm Queen of Angels 2085 Maple Bay Rd, Duncan 250 701-0433 28 Cowichan Watershed Board Speaker Night: Public Lecture with environmental lawyer Devon Page 7pm Co-hosted by Cowichan Valley Naturalists Society at Vancouver Island University (VIU), Cowichan Lecture Hall FREE 28 Cowichan Valley Prostate Cancer Support Group — Monthly Group 2pm Canadian Cancer Society 103–225 Canada Avenue

(Canada Building) FREE 28 Cowichan Music Festival Dance 9am/1pm Cowichan Performing Arts Centre, Cowichan Theatre, 2687 James St., Duncan $3

OUT OF TOWN

9 Freedom Gospel Choir presents JOY w/ Maureen Washington, 6:30pm Church of the Nazarene, Victoria www.freedomgospelchoir. ca 22-24 West Coast Farm & Garden Show Tofino Botanical Gardens, Tofino www. tofinocommunityfoodinitiative.com

February 2019 Issue 123 Cowichan Valley Voice Magazine

Publisher Richard Badman Editor Sheila Badman

Contact us at: editor@cowichanvalleyvoice.com 250 746 9319 6514 Wicks Rd, Duncan BC V9L 5V2 Visit us online at www.cowichanvalleyvoice.com Distribution Lucas Goris & Mindy Goldberg

Proofreader Diana Pink

Calendar and Masthead C.A. Linklater

Advertising Enquiries Please Contact Adrienne Richards 250 510 6596 e-mail adrienne@cowichanvalleyvoice.com Next Ad Deadline February 18 for March 2019 Issue 124 *Non Profit Community Ad Rates available please enquire. COMMUNITY CALENDAR LISTINGS ARE FREE! Next EVENTS DEADLINE February 15 for March 2019 Issue E-mail: Date, Event Title, Time, Location and Cost w/ subject “EVENT” to events@cowichanvalleyvoice.com Cowichan Valley Voice Magazine reserves the right to omit and/or edit submitted listings due to space limitations SPECIAL THANKS TO FOLLOWING VALLEY VOICES Victoria Robinson, Bill Jones, Brad Boisvert, Jess van den Broek, Michael Abbott, Gayle Hurmuses, Nick Versteeg, Sheila Badman, Barb Stone, Cheryl Painter Yonge, Chris Manley, Dr. Lyn Pascoe, Carolyn Prellwitz, Julie Pyon, Hilary Henegar, Cara Bjornson, Sonja Nagel, Carmen Barclay, Edna Widenmaier, Monica Dockerty, Leah Austin, Melanie Roberts, Diana Pink, Debbie Shkuratoff, Karen Bernard, Donna Shaw, Janet Magdanz, Jennie Garcia, Guy Dauncey, Vida Glaser, Chloe Boyle, John Magdanz, Richard Badman, Devon Page, Carol Hartwig, Caitlin McKenna, Debbie Wood, Helga Feichtinge, Venita Chow, Karla Rothweiler, Nicolette Genier and The Wonderful Staff at The Community Farm Store, David Suzuki and The Lovely Georgia Nicols We welcome your story ideas & photo submissions, however Cowichan Valley Voice Magazine reserves the right to omit and/or edit all submissions for space, clarity, content and style. The opinions expressed in Valley Voice Magazine do not necessarily reflect those of the editor, publishers or other contributors. Please send a query e-mail with your suggested topic prior to sending your article as space is limited and may not always be available. Valley Voice Magazine is distributed through 450 + select locations throughout the Cowichan Valley- Malahat, Mill Bay, Shawnigan Lake, Cherry Point, Duncan, Cowichan Bay, Crofton, Chemainus and Salt Spring Island and to Cowichan Lake, Ladysmith, Nanaimo, Victoria, Tofino Cover image Handbuilt, white stoneware vase with white glaze accents by Margit Nellemann www.margitnellemann.com Floral design by Ashley Stevenson, Willow and Orchid, Downtown Duncan 250 748-9868

Looking to target a local audience wtih your products or services? Contact Adrienne Richards for a 2019 Ad Rates Sheet and find out about our marketing offers for local businesses. 250 510 6596 adrienne@ cowichanvalleyvoice.com 6

OUR COMMUNITY February Events 4-5 Queen of Angels Open House 8 Dine Cowichan 21 International Women’s Day Festival 23 Downtown Duncan 28-35 The Future is Here and it Pays Great Dividends! 52 Using your Woodstove Efficiently and Effectively 62 Why We Should Read 65 Why Do Endangered Orcas Need A Clean Cowichan Estuary? 69 Small Groups, Huge Impacts 74 Forecasts by Georgia Nicols 75 Community Farm Store Pages 73 Directory 78-79 LOCAL FOOD & DRINK The Art of Fondue 11 Spicing up the Valley 12 Food For Thought 16 Winter Squash And Chickpea Purée 17 Local Reds For A Romantic Meal 19 HOME, FARM & GARDEN Citta Slow AGM 14 Winter Vines Are All About Wine 20 Gardening Is Good For You 44 West Coast Farm & Garden Show 45 February Is The Month For Pruning 46 Working with a Garden Design Professional 47 Live Edge Seeking Big Leaf Maple 54 Feliz Ano Nuevo! New year, New Inspiration! 60 Getting Your House Ready for Sale 61 Hurray. Spring is on the Way. 65 Eco Friendly Tips for a Greener Home 70 LOCAL ARTS Russell Marsland with Raven Blackwell & The Chosen Few 7 Matthew Good / POESY13 Dockside Drive Show Band 15 The Cowichan Music Festival 26 West Side Story 42 Freedom Gospel Choirs And Guest Maureen Washington 48 Swinging Songstress Sue Newman 50 Call For Artists - Cowichan Valley Fine Arts Show BODY, MIND & SOUL Natural Solutions For Sleep Disorders 24 Time For A Supported Cleanse 25 The Year To Re-Connect With Your True Self 49 Amythest Bio Mat Session 51 Anthroposophical Reading 64 Why Reflexology? 72 The Heart Chakra & Love Stones 72 CHILDREN & FAMILY Preschool and Kindergarten Feature 37-41 Child Care Resource & Referral 41 Grade Eight At Brentwood 43 PETS, RECREATION & NATURE The Western Screech Owl 66 Family Time At Mount Washington 67 The Legal Fight To Save The Southern Resident Orcas 68 Lucky Dog Dog Love 71 Cannabis Out Of The Closet 74 David Suzuki 70

Russell Marsland with Raven Blackwell & The Chosen Few

ussell Marsland, one of the greatest blues guitarists of all time is joined by the stunning Raven Blackwell. Backed by an all star band, be prepared for a show that will leave you breathless.’ Guitar virtuoso and vocalist Russell Marsland has been a powerful presence on the Vancouver music scene for more than 30 years. In 1978 Russell co-founded Vancouver’s “Rhythm & Blues All Stars.” The band played it’s first gig opening for the Legendary Long John Baldry. Russell has performed with

hundreds of artists, and has shared the stage with the Allman Brothers, BB King, Chuck Berry, James Brown, War, Ray Charles, and Steppenwolf just to name a few! Russell headlined four years at the Vancouver International Jazz Festival, Pender Harbour Blues Festival, and opened the inaugural Burnaby Blues and Roots Festival, and The Nanaimo Blues Festival.

Raven Blackwell (formerly Suzanne Gitzi) is a veteran of the Canadian music scene with a #1 Hit, “The Runaround”. Ravens’ powerful voice coupled with her dynamic live show have made audiences and critics turn up their radios from coast to coast. Her voice transcends titles of style. From pop to soul & blues and beyond, she has been welcomed with standing ovations everywhere she has appeared! Russell Marsland, Raven Blackwell & The Chosen Few 8pm Osborne Bay Pub, 1534 Joan Ave $20 adv/$25door Reservations Recommended

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Queen of Angels Catholic Elementary & Middle School Open House

The Clay Hub Collective 2375 Koksilah Rd. Cowichan Station

Sculpture Class, Kids and Teens Classes and more Check out on the website. www.theclayhubcollective.weebly.com

Whiteye Community Health Life is balance. Healthy active living

Physio

Johanne Tomio BSR, CAFCI

C: 250.327.8875

Chiro

Julian Wynne Smith DC, FRCCSS(C)

C: 250.709.3700

204 -149 Ingram Street, Duncan 8

very student at Queen of Angels is valued and respected for their individual talent and uniqueness. In our Catholic community, the values of self-esteem and friendship, as well as a strong commitment to society, are instilled throughout daily school life. Our faith-based learning environment instills Christian values through spiritual, character and leadership development. We are committed to providing a quality education in a safe and nurturing environment. We are dedicated to the continual development of the whole individual as a lifelong learner, spiritually, physically, intellectually, culturally, emotionally, artistically & socially. “Our school is a family, where we care for one another, as we grow and learn” - Kathy Korman, Principal. Queen of Angels offers an extensive extra-curricular program designed to supplement the regular curriculum. Numerous sports teams, clubs, and projects occur throughout the entire

school year giving students the opportunity to become involved in ‘their’ school. 2085 Maple Bay Rd, Duncan, Grades offered - Early Learning Centre for 3-5-year olds, through to Grade 9 Bussing is available for KG-9 students from Ladysmith to Mill Bay. Upcoming events: Open House, Tuesday, February 5, 2019 from 1:00pm - 4:00pm Kindergarten Information Session Tuesday, February 5, 2019 from 4:00pm – 5:00pm. Please call 250-746-5919 or email qa@cisdv.bc.ca to schedule a tour of our school, meet our staff and see our school community in action. Queen of Angels has an open admission policy and welcomes families of all faiths.

Wear a Tutu and get 22% off regularly priced pieces.

SECONDS SALE 0 2 .0 2 @ 2 PM Margit Nellemann’s Annual Seconds Sale features wildly reduced slightly imperfect functional and decorative clay art.

SEASON OPENING THE TEASHOP+TEAROOM+GALLERY IS OPEN AS OF SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 3RD Regular Hours: Wednesday–Sunday, 10am5pm Valentine’s Day features exquisite teas paired with delectable sweets in our cozy tearoom. Space is limited, please call ahead to reserve.

Canada’s Ballet Jörgen - Coppélia In this wonderful and whimsical production of the world’s oldest surviving ballet, Canada’s Ballet Jörgen’s adaptation of Coppélia is a charming mix of Toy Story meets Pinnochio. This daring, bold and funny love story delves into the mysterious mind of Dr. Coppélius, a lonely toymaker who wishes to bring his creations to life and find his perfect wife. He creates Coppélia, a stunning, life-sized, dancing doll so beautiful that one of the local villagers, Nathanael, falls madly in love with her. Nathanael’s spurned sweetheart Klara enacts revenge by dressing as the doll and pretending to come to life and from there, the adventure begins. Emotional and captivating, Coppélia is a classical ballet that is one of Canada’s Ballet Jörgen’s best balletic representations of fantastical storytelling beautifully adapted to the 21st century mesmerizing audience members with a performance that is sure to delight! Thursday, February 7, 7:30pm Tickets $36 / Senior & Student $33 / Child $20, eyeGO $5 / Family Package $88 Cowichan Performing Arts Centre 2687 James St., Duncan, Tickets 250.748.7529 www.cowichanpac.ca

Cooking Classes at Deerholme Farma In addition to our dinners and wild food workshop we hold monthly cooking classes on the farm. These events are usually small hands-on groups where we take a deep dive into interesting cooking topics. We try to focus on teaching techniques that will help your everyday cooking and expand your culinary horizons. Usually there is a wide variety of skill on display from the students, some people really need encouragement and confidence building while others are there to add a little variety and polish to their tool kit. In February we are holding a pasta making class based on requests from some of our guests. We will explore the world of pasta from several cultures – not just Italian – with a few flavour gems from around the world. We try to create a relaxed atmosphere with an emphasis on fun. You also get fed throughout the afternoon so the end result should be an educational and delicious class. February 23, Noon-4pm, 4830 Stelfox Rd, Duncan 250.748.7450 Cost $125 per person + gst.

Lexington Spa FEBRUARY SPECIAL 1.5 hr. foot Reﬂexology (R.A.C massage) with pedicure $80. Regular $100.00 In home visit

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The Art of Fondue

e love fondue.

Fondue dates back to 1669, with earlier versions having eggs in it almost like a scrambled egg and cheese. Fondue as we know it today began in 1930’s as the national dish of the Swiss. It was a dish of melted cheese served in a communal pot or fondue pot over a heat source often with a candle or fuel lamp, and eaten by dipping bread into the cheese. Despite its modern associations with rustic mountain life and skiing, it was a town-dweller’s dish from the western, Frenchspeaking area of Switzerland. Rich cheese like Gruyère was a valuable ingredient which peasants could not afford so they used a less quality cheese mixed with wine to enhance the cheese flavour. In the 1950s, the name “fondue” was generalized to other dishes in which a food is dipped into a communal pot of liquid or kept hot in a fondue pot. A chocolate fondue is a pot of melted chocolate mixture where participants dip pieces of fruit or pastry. The classic French fondue bourguignonne, is when pieces of sliced meat are cooked in hot oil or broth. Today wine is mostly used in a cheese fondue, but cider, and beer are gaining in popularity. Making fondue is simple.

The tricky part is having the proper equipment and access to quality ingredients. This February we are embracing the art of fondue at Cure and invite you to pre order to enjoy one at home. We provide you with everything you need pots, forks, fuel and delicious ingredients to make your fondue evening really special. All you have to do is choose: Cheese or Meat.

• HAZELNUT with CHOCOLATE OR BLACKBERRY • LEMON RASPBERRY • CARROT • CHOCOLATE: CLASSIC, MOCHA, RASPBERRY or BLACKBERRY Closed on Monday, February 18 for BC Family Day

ALSO AVAILABLE VALENTINEʻS SPECIAL CUPCAKES AND COOKIES

Available Wednesday, February 6 until Sunday, February 17

Duncan Garage Café & Bakery

330 Duncan St, Duncan 250 748 6223

Our most popular cheese fondue is prepared with a fresh blend of cheese, a blend of Gruyère and cute smoked cheddar Our meat fondue comes with your choice of broth or oil and fresh, gourmet ingredients. Choose from our dry aged beef, grass-fed tenderloin, or dry cured sausages like chorizo or coppa -just to name a few. We will have your fondue all ready for you, nicely packaged with simple instructions to prepare and serve at home. Four easy steps with the last step being to eat which is our favourite thing to do too. Upon completion of your fondue evening just return the pot and forks. Simple entertaining at its best. Please order at least 24 hours in advance of pick up. Contact us at Cure by phone 250-929-2873 or by email at curemeatandcheese@gmail.com.

Submitted by Brad Boisvert

Spicing up the Valley

IXIM

Foods Inc. is leading the way in bringing quality Mexican foods to the Cowichan Valley by specializing in purely authentic ready-to-go Mexican cuisine! Owner Michell Paez was born in Mexico and moved to Canada when she was 18. As time went by she was really missing the fresh taste of an authentic corn tortilla. Luckily, that fresh tortilla taste returned with a visit from her mother who brought Michell and her life and business partner PJ, a small tortilla press. “For years, we would make fresh tortillas for ourselves and our friends, honing our skills as experts in the craft of making fresh corn tortillas” explains PJ. Back in the summer of 2014, when they returned to the island after living abroad, PJ and Michell started a hobby business making tortillas by hand and selling them at a local farmer’s market. There was an immediate response from the public; people loved them! Within a few weeks, IXIM Foods Inc. was created. Presently, IXIM is much more than corn tortillas. In the past 4 years, IXIM Foods Inc. has grown to incorporate several authentic Mexican food products including a line of taco fillings like Chicken Tinga, Cochinita Pibil, Vegan Chorizo, and Refried Beans. They also Michell and PJ making fresh tortillas

produce a Mexican-style hot chocolate, artisan Molé, and several types of salsas. “As a family run business, we are careful about where we source our ingredients,” PJ explains. “Everything we produce is made from scratch without the use of preservatives. All our foods are made in small batches to ensure freshness for our customers, and everything is gluten-free.” For their signature tortillas, they make sure to use heirloom (nonGMO) corn, water, and lime, nothing more. They are one of a growing number of small-scale food processors in the Valley with a strong and loyal customer base, contributing to a strong local food culture. IXIM Foods Inc.’s delicious products are currently available through the Cow-op.ca online farmer’s market (www.cow-op. ca). They have booths at both the Duncan and Qualicum Beach Farmer’s Markets and their tortillas are being sold at Pomme Naturals in Nanaimo. Their food-truck, Taco Revolution, is available for catering, and can be found at various events and markets throughout the Valley.

Jess van den Broek, Shawnigan Lake Horticulturist, Hobby-farmer intern at the Cowichan Green Community and Cow-op.ca online farmers’ market.

various causes, most notably his dedication to raising awareness regarding mental health issues and human rights. In keeping with this, Good will continue to sell his OK merchandise with all proceeds donated to the Canadian Mental Health Association.

VEGAN CHORIZO

TACOS

1 container of IXIM vegan chorizo (400g) 1 package (1 dozen) IXIM corn tortillas 1 container (200ml) of IXIM salsa 1 medium onion, finely diced 1 bunch of cilantro, chopped 2 to 3 key limes, quartered

Matthew Good returns to Cowichan to perform his Solo Acoustic Tour with special guest POESY

Fry the vegan chorizo on medium heat until crispy (about 10 minutes). Meanwhile, warm tortillas by placing them single layer in a pre-heated pan, 10 to 15 seconds each side until warm and pliable. Place tortillas on plates, and divide the chorizo among the 12 tortillas. Top with diced onion, cilantro, and salsa. Garnish with limes wedges.

atthew Good is embarking on a 35date Canadian Solo Acoustic Tour that began last month. This is Good’s first solo run in Canada since his 2007 critically acclaimed acoustic tour. The 35-date tour will see the prolific songwriter bring his inimitable solo acoustic performance across Canada including a stop at the Cowichan Performing Arts Centre on Friday, February 8, 2019. His last performance at the Cowichan Performing Arts Centre was over 8 years ago in 2011. For over twenty years, Matthew Good has been a commander of the Canadian alt-rock music scene with his iconic sound and unprecedented songwriting. Since his 1995 debut album, Last of the Ghetto Astronauts, Good’s music has been

La Petite Auction House Auction Sunday FEBRUARY 10 & 24 • 1pm

Viewings

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

9686 Chemainus Rd, 250-701-2902

a staple of the airwaves. With sixteen albums to his name, four Juno Awards and twenty-one Juno nominations along the way, his latest album, Something Like A Storm debuted top five in the country, when it released last fall. Good started 2018, touring Canada with Our Lady Peace where, of Good’s co-headline performance, Ottawa Life Magazine noted that he “he dowsed [the crowd] in kerosene and struck a match on a blazing set that included cuts from Something Like a Storm and choice cuts from the back catalogue.” Matthew Good continues to rock the nation as one of Canada’s leading alt-rock voices packing venues across the country and is also well known for his support of

Joining Matthew Good on his tour will be special guest POESY who is quickly becoming one of the most exciting new Canadian voices. Influenced by innovative enigmatic artists like Kate Bush and Freddie Mercury, as well as 90s alternative rock queens PJ Harvey, Tori Amos, and Alanis Morissette, the Toronto-based artist has formed a gritty and unmistakable sound that demands to be heard. Pairing inspiration from her favourite novels with vulnerable confessions from her own life, POESY’s dark and powerful alt-rock rhythms makes it possible to dance and cry and wonder and hope all at once. Matthew Good Solo Acoustic Tour with special guest POESY Friday, February 8, 7:30pm Tickets $45 Cowichan Performing Arts Centre, 2687 James Street., Duncan Tickets 250.748.7529 www.cowichanpac.ca

BEADS BEADS BEADS

Etc!

9752c Willow St

Chemainus

250 324 2227 Open 7 days a week

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

Beloved farmer Brock McLeod

And The Winner Is...

en years ago, Cowichan Bay became North America’s first Cittaslow community, joining an international network that now includes over 236 Cittaslow towns in 30 countries and territorial areas. These communities are brought to life by the people who take the time to build community relationships and enjoy quality of life. They are blessed with quality space, shops, inns, historic buildings, farms, nature and unspoiled lands. Our mission is to preserve the unique identity of the Cowichan Bay area while continually improving the quality of life for residents and visitors. We do this by celebrating our community’s rich history and traditions, promoting craftsmanship and

environmental stewardship, maintaining our community’s distinct character, and engaging our community in creating and sharing a good life. Cittaslow is an international network of towns where quality of life is paramount. Do the above statements align with what you believe in too? If so please join us for our annual AGM on February 7 at the Ocean Front Suites in Cowichan Bay, 1681 Cowichan Bay Rd 7pm-9pm We welcome all new members! This year Cittaslow Cowichan will be handing out two Cittaslow Awards:The Brock McLeod Cittaslow Best Farm Practices Award and the Cittaslow Environmental Award. Join us and expand our Cittaslow community! www.cittaslowcowichan.org

CITTA SLOW AGM • February 7, 2019 7-9pm Ocean Front Suites, Cowichan Bay

Cittaslow Cowichan 14

Join us in setting goals for 2019 and welcoming new members to our board. Help us reach out to individuals and businesses across the whole Cowichan Valley to expand our Cittaslow community!

www.cittaslowcowichan.org

festival circuit. The band includes vocalist Chris Newstead, Angela Ireland, Fran Bitonti, leader Heather Burns on keyboard and vocals, Ryan Tandy on bass, Don Leppard on drums, Dave Flello on trumpet and Paul Wainwright on sax — first class entertainers, all. Together since 2012, the band opened for the Victoria Symphony’s “Symphony Splash” last August and has played Government House, Butchart Gardens, the Sidney Pier & Bandshell and at regional theatres from Quesnel to Quadra Island, Coquitlam and through the Okanagan and beyond.

Swingin’, Singin’ and Dancin’ with Dockside Drive Show Band

ut on your dancin’ shoes — Dockside Drive, Victoria’s high-energy show band packing a big band sound and Manhattan Transfer-style vocals is back at Pat’s House of Jazz at 2 pm, February 3 in the Osborne Bay Pub, 1534 Joan Ave., Crofton. Admission $20. With eight pieces, including four vocalists, this band is known for its tight harmonies and fresh musical arrangements of classic swing and showtune favourites. From Route 66 and Tuxedo Junction to In the Mood and

the music of Ray Charles, Glenn Miller, Louis Prima, the Gershwins and more, this band delivers it all. Even if you don’t dance, they guarantee that you will be swingin’ and singin’ along.

The band has a roster of seasoned and established musicians with individual international and national touring and performing careers. Many are veterans of the Dixie, swing and jazz

When the band performed at the Sid Williams Theatre in Courtenay, general manager Deb Renz called the show “a fantastic night of big band-style jazz and swing (with) powerhouse vocals, riveting instrumentals, a wonderful richness and class to the whole show. This show rocked! We would bring it back in a heartbeat.”

The show is part of a regular Sunday jazz series presented by the Chemainus Valley Cultural Arts Society most Sundays till June at 2 p.m. Reservations are recommended. Tables will be held until 1:30 p.m. Call 250-324-2245 or visit www.osbornebaypub.com.

Gift Baskets & Certificates Cocktail Supplies Meat & Cheese Platters Gourmet Foods Dine In & Take Out

ery c Ev m i s u Fro eM Li v u n day 7p m S m4p

SERVING DELICIOUS WATERFRONT BRUNCH, LUNCH & DINNER OPEN MON - FRI 11:30am / SAT & SUN 10am MILL BAY MARINA • 740 HANDY RD • 778-356-3568 www.bridgemans.ca 15

Food For Thought Bill Jones is an author, chef and food consultant Deerholme.com

LIVE MUSIC FEBRUARY 1 • 7:30pm $20 OLD MAN LUEDECKE IN THE CHAPEL AT PROVIDENCE FARM

Multi-award winning folk/roots artist from Nova Scotia—a modern-day people’s poet and traveling bard and balladeer.

FEBRUARY 7 • 7:30pm $35 ASHLEY MACISAAC W/QUINN BACHAND AT THE DUNCAN CHRISTIAN REFORMED CHURCH Iconic Canadian ﬁddler with virtuoso multi-instrumentalist.

FEBRUARY 7 •7:30pm $20 THE UNFAITHFUL SERVANTS IN THE CHAPEL AT PROVIDENCE FARM

Americana, folk, bluegrass and country music, compelling storytelling and high powered vocals.

FEBRUARY 7 •7:30pm $20

GENEVIEVE CHARBONNEAU ALBUM RELEASE IN THE CHAPEL AT PROVIDENCE FARM Award-winning singer-songwriter showcasing her latest collection of heartfelt songs. Part of Int’l Women’s Day celebrations.

For more info visit

www. barelynorth.com

The effect of food on mood has always been an interest of mine. It started when I found out foods like garlic were believed to energize the brain and stimulate social interactions like communication. Then I found out about the world of aphrodisiacs (always a hot topic for the mind of a young man) and then veered off into the science of how certain foods can elevate moods and contribute to our wellbeing. In University I remember taking a fun course called Culinary Anthropology an exploration of how food and dining culture influence different civilizations around the world. It taught me that food plays a huge role in our lives and sharing and laughing are key pieces for enjoying our time here on the planet. It also all made me think that maybe there were deeper mechanism at work when we eat food we enjoy. Science tells us some foods do provide energy to supercharge the bodies’ metabolism (such as the bromine from chocolate and caffeine from coffee and tea and others). Some chemical reactions such as the caramelization of sugars also form complex products that react as pleasure in the brain. Many foods we crave contain an essential amino acid called tryptophan and one key component is called serotonin. Many foods contain this compound such as dairy, meat and

poultry, nuts, seeds, chickpeas, chocolate and many mushrooms. Yes, they all taste good, but there are also chemical transmitters being sent to your brain sending waves of pleasure around. They push all the same buttons as substance addictions, so of course moderation is prudent in your daily diet – but celebrations can and should be a delicious exception. Recent research as also revealed another interesting substance called andandamine. It occurs naturally in several plant products, notably cannabis, chocolate and truffles and more mysteriously in sea urchin roe. Scientists have dubbed this the bliss molecule for its role in lowering anxiety and it’s being studied as a potential medication for treating depression. It is also thought to increase appetite and may have a role in the way the body assimilates and stores fat. Who knew that forkful of food could have so much impact on our brain? Well – we did; and we’ve been celebrating the fact on our farm for several years. On Saturday, February 16th we will be holding our annual Happiness Dinner featuring foods that encourage feelings of well-being and pleasure. The meal will include local truffles, wild seafood, duck, mushrooms and of course chocolate. If you feel like getting your happy on, come join us. For more information call 250 748-7450 or visit www.deerholme. com.

Upcoming EVENTS Happiness Dinner Saturday, February 16 Hands-on Pasta Making Class Saturday, February 23

For full details visit www.deerholme.com BY RESERVATION ONLY

4830 Stelfox Rd, Duncan

For ReservationS 250 748 7450

WINTER SQUASH AND CHICKPEA PURÉE Courtesy Bill Jones, Deerholme Farm Squash sometimes has a high sugar contact so be careful as you roast that the sugars do not blacken too much (on the edges is fine). My favourite squash for this dish would be a denser variety like Kabocha or Acorn. If peeling the denser varieties of squash is daunting, you can buy a chunk of banana squash at most local stores – these are much easier to peel and also taste excellent. Makes about 6 cups (1½L)

Ingredients

1 tsp (5 mL) honey 4 cups (1 L) squash, peeled and cubed 1 cup (250 mL) cooked chick peas 2 medium tomatoes, cored and chopped Salt and pepper to taste 6-8 garlic cloves, peeled Olive oil drizzle 1 medium onion, peeled and chopped 2 Tbsp (30 mL) olive oil 1 tsp (5 mL) mild smoked paprika (or paprika) Preheat oven to 350 F / 180 C

Method

On a baking tray, combine the squash, tomatoes, garlic cloves, onion, olive oil and paprika. Toss well to coat and place in the hot oven, Bake for 20-25 minutes or until the squash is soft and beginning to brown and the tomatoes have slightly broken down. Remove from oven and allow to cool. With a spatula, scrape contents of pan into the bowl of a food processor. Puree until smooth. At this point you can pass the mixture through a fine sieve, pressing and rubbing the solids with a ladle to extract the smooth puree. Or you can leave it as is to create a bit of rustic texture in the puree. Return to food processor and add the honey and chick peas. Pulse until smooth them process for 1-2 minutes until a very smooth puree is reached. Season with salt and pepper. If the mixture is thick, add a drizzle of olive oil to smooth out the puree. If it is thin, add a little more chickpea (or some cubes of bread) and puree to thicken the mixture (note: the thickness will depend on the type and ripeness of the tomato). Serve warm as a side dish or chilled as a spread for bread. This dish can be made ahead and will actually improve in flavour for a couple of days.

i’m in the mood for FOOD! Special Seatings The Farm Table Inn is offering a delicious farm-to-table 5 course Valentine’s dinner on February 14th at the Farm Table Inn. $80 per person plus taxes + gratuities. Reservations are required. 250932-3205 www.farmtableinn.ca The Ainslie, Downtown Duncan’s newest bistro has a 5 course prix fixe on offer for Valentine’s Day. Featuring Amuse Bouche, heart shaped Raviolo, Roast Tenderloin and Crème Brulee. 161 Kenneth St., Duncan $85 per person + taxes and gratuities For reservations 250-597-3695 or info@ theainslie.ca Unsworth Restaurant is presenting a special 4 course menu with optional pairings to treat your Valentine. See our website for more information. Reservations can be made by phoning 250-929-2292 ext 1.

Dinner and A Show Valentine’s Day – It’s all About Love with the Edie Daponte Quartet Experience an unforgettable evening with the lovely Edie Daponte, Karel Roessingh, Joey Smith and Damian Graham. Perfectly paired with a delicious 3 course dinner by chef Philippe Lavoie. End your meal with a Dessert Buffet featuring various cakes and flans, chocolate dipped strawberries and assorted sweets and treats! Reservations required. Limited seating. 250-324-2245 Thursday, February 14th Dinner & Show: 7 pm. $60 per person info@osbornebaypub.com

Dinner and Cooking Demo

Enjoy an evening of romance at Blue Grouse Winery. Chef Chey Peterson will walk you through a culinary celebration of Valentine’s Day. Enjoy an appetiser, main course and dessert paired with Blue Grouse wines. Best of all, you’ll fall in love with the incredible cuisine that you will learn to create together. February 15 6-9pm $150 per couple Book quick, limited seating available! 2182 Lakeside Road, Duncan 250 743-3834

Edible Gifts The Duncan Garage Bakery Café are baking Baby Cakes for Valentine’s Day. They are $18, serve 2-4 people are 3 inches around and will have a heart on them. Available in Hazelnut with chocolate or blackberry, Lemon Raspberry, Carrot, and Chocolate Classic, Mocha, Raspberry or Blackberry. Available Wednesday, February 6 - through to Sunday, February 17. 330 Duncan St, Downtown Duncan 250 748-6223 Looking to remind a loved one how important they are this Valentine’s? Why not give them some decadent dark chocolate cinnamon bark or a box of our luscious handmade chocolates! Come on and visit Shawnigan Coffee and Chocolates at 1761 Shawnigan Lake-Mill Bay Rd, Shawnigan Lake or pre order at 250 733-2245 www.shawnigancoffee.com

Local Reds For A Romantic Meal... Blue Grouse Winery

Black Muscat Fortified This traditional Port-style wine began in 2012 with a single barrel and the addition of another barrel with each successive harvest. Our debut release is a “Solera” style blend of the 2012 through 2017 vintages (6 years). It is deep ruby coloured and starts with a nose of boysenberry preserves, stewed plums and hazelnuts. On the palate you will find vanilla, caramel and sweet smokiness. The luscious mouth feel, with medium acidity, will linger on your tongue long after the last drop passes it by. This will be the highlight of your evening. After a lovely meal, pair this wine with soft ripe cheese, smoked and salted nuts, and dark chocolate. This is a very special wine to share with your very special person on a cold winter day snuggling in front of the fireplace. $60

Rocky Creek Winery

Pinot Noir 2016 New Release Fresh, spicy, forest floor with cherry, plums and cedar that will counterbalance rich flavours. Try this with a roasted duck dish. Pinot is one of those wines that requires taking time to sip and let it linger. It changes with every sip and every mouthful of a wonderful Valentine’s dish. $30

Unsworth Vineyards

2016 Unsworth Symphony Cabernet Libre and Labelle are blended with a small amount of Petit Milo and 0583 for a deliciously unique Vancouver Island expression. Luscious baked cherries, dried fig and spicy cedar with soft tannins makes this wine a perfect pairing for red meats and comforting, winter cassoulets. $27

Averill Creek Vineyard Somenos Foch Cab

Treat your Valentine to a romantic dinner with a special bottle from Averill Creek’s premium collection. Our full-bodied red blend, Somenos Foch Cab tempts with opulent aromas of sweet black fruits and follows through with rich, luscious flavours of blackberry, cassis, chocolate and cherry. Perfect for sipping by the fire, pairing with a juicy steak or even some good dark chocolate. $32

All wines subject to tax

Winter Vines Are All About Wine Eminence Organic Chocolate and Roses Facial $90

Monday-Friday 9am-5pm

Saturday, Sunday and Holidays – Closed 109-2673 Beverly St., Duncan (Thrifty’s Plaza) 250 748-2056 I www.soulescape.ca

he deep days of winter in Cowichan bring trumpeter swans, snow drops and for us at Blue Grouse, pruning, lots of pruning. A grape vine is cut back every year, approximately 90% of last year’s growth is discarded and returned to the soil. A pruner wields razor sharp steel to cut through all that woody growth in an effort to set up each vine for the entire growing season. This is the most critical yet time consuming step for the vineyard all year. The traditional pruning style on Vancouver Island is called cane replacement with most vines trained as either a single or double guyot. This means that the body of the trunk is maintained while the fruiting canes, or arms, are replaced year in year out. The vines we tend range in age from 1 year old to approximately 30 years old. The goal while pruning a young vine is to properly establish the permanent structure so that in years to come the plant is still

centered, healthy and fruitful. Whereas an old gnarly vine is so set in its ways that it can be a challenge to change its disposition, remind you of someone? A serious challenge facing Vancouver Island vineyards is our rainy weather during the pruning season. It gets your clothing all wet and can really bring you down, unless you’re a mushroom! A lot of spore driven parasitic fungi have evolved to live in grape vines and they spread themselves when raindrops land on them. There are a few options that any pruner has in hand to combat these airborne fungi. The best tool out there is knowledge. This is why you should check out our FREE pruning workshop this month, Saturday February 2nd from 11am-12pm, please RSVP to tastingroom@bluegrouse. ca. We’ll cover the basics and answer any grapevine questions you may have. Warm up afterwards in the tasting room which will be open for Soup Saturday. Prune on. Michael Abbott Studied Ecology in Montreal, manages Blue Grouse vineyards and is a part time beekeeper

Prima Strada

February 20 - March 10

Fabulous Food. Fabulous Prices.

Dine Cowichan restaurants offer ﬁxed price menus for pub food, farm-to-table, ethnic, ﬁne dining & more. With 25 participating restaurants, everyone can Dine Cowichan. Just ask for the Dine Cowichan menu.

Dine Cowichan returns February 20 to March 10 for third consecutive season

oodies, food festivals, farmers’ markets, family dining, flavour fusion... So much of our culture revolves around the pleasure, camaraderie and artistry connected with food. Dine Cowichan is a celebration of this cultural mainstay. This fabulous food fest provides local restaurants with the platform to explore their culinary creativity to come up with new menu items – and at special pricing! Of course, your old favourites remain available on the regular menu.

$15 - $45 | February 20 – March 10 Participating Restaurants & Menus Online: www.duncancc.bc.ca

farm-to-table creations, comfort food, international cuisine, vegan, vegetarian, organic or all of the above, both your palette and your pocket book will be happy to indulge with prices ranging from $15 - $45. The Dine Cowichan Festival runs for 19 consecutive days from February 20th to March 10th. For a full list of participating restaurants, news, updates and festival details visit www.duncancc.bc.ca.

Dine Cowichan really does offer something for everyone – whether you like fine dining, pub fare,

has been learned. When we share the pain of life together it also brings us closer to a shared celebration of joy.

International Women’s Day Festival

n just two short years, the Cowichan Valley International Women’s Day Festival has grown from 5 events over one week to 24 events across two months. It emerged from a proposal to include every community, and a desire to help resolve pressing local issues through shared experience and synchronized activity. It has woven together almost spontaneously, braiding and flowing from many strands, with the fluid power of water.

powerful. There are twists, turns, and obstacles, but as in nature, these have in many cases accelerated the pace. A rock is often not so much a barrier as it is a ramp, depending on how it is approached. The same is true of a turning point, which can present as a problem, but become a pivot. It is the change of view that transforms perceptions. It is the change of perceptions that act as the catalyst for a renewal and the motivation for change.

While effort has certainly been involved, the result is much greater than anticipated, and yet it is exactly as expected. This is the beauty of community. What seems insurmountable to one, or even to a small group, is simple when faced with an active and willing cohort.

We need change. There is a lot of despair in the world and there is truly good reason for it. Cowichan is beautiful and compelling, but it also carries danger and generational pain. Shattered families, broken dreams, poverty, and despair are as much a part of the landscape as the sky, and can seem to occupy the whole horizon.

As the founder, I am grateful for the contributions of many: those who have created events, those who support it financially, and those who have shared their ears, voices, and time to relieve and empower the labour. Much of that has been drawn upon today to complete this article and the schedule. Like a river, community is

This is not something that will repair itself, It cannot be reformed, but it can be transformed. The path from here to there is a walk we need to take together while we share conversation about everything important. As much as we all wish to be heard, it is equally important to listen and to think upon what

The first festival event, on Saturday, February 9, is The REDress Project. This is a provocative art installation presented annually in Charles Hoey Park, honoring Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women. While it is beautiful seen from a distance, the meaning of this installation is anything but beautiful. Each dress represents a real local woman whose life ended before it should have. The installations will be visited by the Cowichan Tribes March for Missing & Murdered Men, Women, and Children. Death and disappearance are too often experienced locally and disproportionately by the First Nations Community. The Red Dress Project and the march are each an important way to remember the missing, and to maintain awareness of this ongoing tragedy. Observing, participating, and listening, are key to understanding the rotten structures that need to be dismantled. Films include documentaries about famous women, and those who have been mostly anonymous, but whose impact has been significant nonetheless. There are narrative dramas, and an animated feature suitable for families. Two of the films represent important moments in the union movement that led to feminist awakenings for their subjects. In all, the festival includes 7 films from 4 different film societies

and groups. There is also a fundraising dance, The schedule includes two rallies: One Billion Rising, a youth-focused rally against human trafficking and sexual exploitation, on March 8, in Duncan City Square and The International Women’s Day rally itself in Charles Hoey Park on March 9. The IWD Rally will be MC’d by Laxelewetstnaat Thomas of Salish Eye, and features speakers on community building, farming, and the foster care crisis. The Nanaimo Duncan & District Labour Council, the BCFMWU and WOS are holding a seminar on effective activism, and The Cowichan Discourse is leading a discussion on Community Journalism and the Child Welfare Crisis. There will be many musical performances, the launch of Salish Eye Studio, a fashion show featuring the House of Ay Lelum, and a roller derby. It is a nearly seamless collaboration between local community organizations, film collectives, unions, businesses, women’s groups and women’s emergency support services. It’s the presence of many voices that make the choir. Raise your voice with us. Details on all events can be found at www. CowichanValleyIWD.com

Gayle Hurmuses is the founder and coordinator of the International Women’s Day Festival Committee.

Valerian and California Poppy Used in herbal medicine as a treatment for restlessness,

Natural Solutions For Sleep Disorders Sleep issues have become somewhat of an epidemic. Our lives are fast, and expectations are high. Our beloved devices don’t help in any way, keeping us overly connected at all hours of the day. It’s time for a new perspective. The Cause: Stress and anxiety are major contributors to insomnia. Tend to those, and better sleep should follow. Other factors come into play: • Irregular or changing chemistry • Artificial light and evening use of devices • Erratic schedules • Medication side effects • Pre-existing medical conditions • Discomfort Serious damage: The effects on every day life are devastating. But the long-term impact is even worse. A non-typical sleep schedule disturbs the body’s natural pattern of rest and rejuvenation, which can lead to physical and mental problems, including cardiovascular disease, hypertension, asthma, diabetes and depression. A new perspective: Instead of using medication that “force” sleep, a natural approach that reduces nervous tension and quiets the mind, may be the ticket. Some herbals that help are: 24

they will both help you fall asleep faster.

Skullcap Skullcap is traditionally used in herbal medicine to reduce nervous tension and insomnia. Skullcap will help you STAY asleep. Lemon Balm Lemon balm has long been used in herbal medicine as a sleeppromoting herb. It reduces nervous tension and helps you get quality sleep. Magnesium Magnesium is involved in countless functions including muscle relaxation, helping you fully relax after a long day.

Show Yourself Some Love It’s Time For A Supported Cleanse Recently a well known medical journal published an article from their EAT-Lancet Commission titled “The 21st-century great food transformation”. It outlined that the way we eat was severely out of synchronization with the planet and nature and that our eating culture was causing our civilization to be in crisis. It further stated that “the dietary shift that is needed requires a dramatic reduction of consumption of unhealthy foods, such as red meat, by at least 50%... At the same time, an overall increase in consumption of more than 100% is needed for legumes, nuts, fruit, and vegetables. The dominant diet that we have been eating for the past 50 years are not just a major contributor to climate change but also no longer optimally nutritional for us.” Upon finishing the article I deduced that the time for change was now. I had been feeling the weight of all our hearty, meaty meals impacting not just my digestive system but also my heart and head. “Perhaps it’s time for a cleanse?” my conscience spoke. Why cleanse? Toxins accumulate in our daily lives from the environment and from the foods we eat. These toxins build up in our bodies, especially through the colder months and slow down the way we function, impeding our ability to be the best that we can be. Most of us accept these sluggish changes as part of the ageing process. But it’s not true, much is attributed to the food we consume. A supported cleanse works much in the same way as a yoga class. You pay a guide to plan your sessions so your mind and body can follow along and reap the benefits. 100% allorganic everything - Glow Juicery has researched specific fruit, herb, nut and vegetable combinations for each of their juices to give you the optimum medicinal benefits for your cleanse. Juice blends are provided, based on what our bodies need from morning to night and each one contains no less than three to six pounds of organics in every bottle. Three to

six pounds of organics! Clearly labeled juices are picked up the day before your Day 1 start for easy consuming. No mess, no heaping bowls of compost to deal with - just all the nourishing tools you need to detoxify yourself. Their way makes cleansing as easy as Day 1, Day 2 and Day 3! I read the material pre cleanse to familiarize myself with the schedule and other important reminders like drinking lemon water throughout the day between juices. Day 1 begins with a cup of lemon water in the morning. I pull the first 2 juices out of the fridge to warm to room temperature. First juice each day is Citrus Glow a delicious blend of fresh orange, lemon, ginger and coconut water. This pale golden hue rolls in my mouth, tasting tart and fresh. Very potent. It gives a swift boost to the metabolism while introducing antioxidants, anti-inflammatories, and a plethora of vitamins folate, magnesium and potassium. The addition of coconut water helps in lowering blood pressure, reduce blood glucose levels and add an anti-viral benefit. After a productive working morning it is time for Wowza - fresh turmeric, ginger and lemon are its main components. Often taken as a healthy shooter, Wowza is one of their most popular drinks not just for taste but for ingredients. Curcumin the main ingredient in turmeric is a powerful antiinflammatory and antioxidant that helps to prevent heart disease and alleviate arthritis. It is important to be close to a bathroom throughout the day during your cleanse as effective elimination begins within the first few hours. As your body realizes that your digestive system is being given a rest, your intestines take advantage of this time to begin a big clear out of the toxins, while you replace them with pure vitamins, minerals and antioxidants. Lunchtime juice is The Dark Side featuring bentonite, an edible clay that naturally occurs

successful cleanse day. Midway in volcanic ash. It has been used through my cleanse I begin to around the world for centuries to notice a diminished craving for absorb and flush out heavy metal anything sweet. My skin is clearer toxins and and aid in digestion. and very soft, not just on my face Activated charcoal is also in this but throughout my body. I am juice which helps your body efficiently eliminating regularly cleanse deeply by absorbing and my energy and brain function chemicals and more toxins in the is high. I awake on Day 4. My body- flushing them all out before cleanse has ended, but I feel so the body can re absorbed them. good that I decide to listen to my Late afternoon it’s time for Sky body and continue. I drop into the Glow a perky juice that contains café and pick up three more fresh pear, cucumber, kale, lemon, mint delicious juice blends and a raw and blue green algae. One of my Krazy Kale Caesar to go. favourites, the blue green algae At suppertime, I foray back is effective after taking The Dark into the land of food, slowly, Side to add essential minerals mindfully and organically, only back into the body that may have eating raw. Food has never tasted been cleared with the charcoal so good. My body feels clean, and clay. I sit for dinner with the refreshed and energized. A weight family and enjoy a Pure Celery has been eliminated and I am juice. An alkaline, detoxifying so proud of this success, I’m diuretic, this healing tonic has glowing. been heralded as a miracle juice for those with chronic illness and To book your own 3 Day Cleanse supports the liver, heart, thyroid. call 250 597 2595, visit them It also helps with digestion, skin online www.glowjuicery.ca or problems, fatigue and more. I pop into the café at 5380 Trans finish kitchen chores and end the Canada Hwy, Duncan. They day with Pure Green - a delicious require up to 3 days notice to blend of spinach, romaine, black prepare your juices for pick up. kale, cucumber, celery, lemon and ginger. Full of antioxidants, vitamins and minerals, it is a By Sheila Badman perfect way to proudly end a

The Cowichan Music Festival Is Celebrating Our 70Th Anniversary! SUPPORT YOUR 70TH ANNUAL COWICHAN MUSIC FESTIVAL VOCAL & CHORAL • DANCE • PIANO • STRINGS • MUSICAL THEATRE • BANDS

February 11-15 VOCAL • Duncan United Church

February 12,13 a.m. CHOIRS • Cowichan Performimg Arts Centre February 22-28 (no February 26) DANCE • Cowichan Performimg Arts Centre February 10,11,12 PIANO • Duncan Fire Dept. Hall February 19 STRINGS • Duncan United Church February 19-21 MUSICAL THEATRE • Duncan United Church February 20, 21 BANDS • Cowichan Performimg Arts Centre

GALA RECITAL

Sunday, February 24, 2:00 p.m. Duncan United Church

HIGHLIGHTS CONCERTS

Sunday, March 3rd, 2:00 p.m. Wednesday, March 6, 7:00 p.m. Cowichan Performing Arts Centre

ENCOURAGE the COMPETITORS! ATTEND AS MANY SESSIONS AS YOU CAN! Information regarding the Cowichan Music Festival can be found on our website:

www.cowichanmusicfestival.com

t began as a project of the Parent-Teacher Auxillary in 1949. Parents, teachers, principals, music and performing arts teachers enthusiastically supported an event to encourage students to reach for a higher standard of learning in their chosen field. The first chairman was Mr. Bill Allester, Principal of Duncan Elementary School. Original committee members included Mr. J. Moore, Mr.B.Howard, Mrs.F. Paget, Miss E. Evans, Miss Monk, Mrs. H. Robson, Mrs. Lamonte, Mrs. Joughin and Miss Cowie. The Cowichan Music Festival began with 50 entries. Participants entered their chosen sessions free while audience members were charged 15 cents for children and 35 cents for adults. The sections included Speech Arts, Dance, Piano, Choral, Violin and Instruments. In 1955 Mayor J.C. Wragg of Duncan and Mayor C. Murison of North Cowichan spoke about the Music Festival, calling attention to “the important place the event holds in the community”. The entries had grown to 350 and included Speech Arts, Dance, Piano, Choral, Violin and Instruments. Today, with the addition of Musical Theatre and Bands, there are approximately 900 entries. In 1963, Vancouver piano adjudicator Phyllis Schuldt noted that students in

the piano section of the Cowichan Music Festival were having to play on a “glorified matchbox”. She offered to return and give a concert to help raise funds to buy a decent piano. The Music Festival committee enthusiastically agreed and through her initiative and contacts the1923 Black, Grand D model Steinway piano was purchased from Eaton’s, in Vancouver, for $5000. In 1988 this wonderful piano was refinished in Vancouver and in 2006 the piano was sent to the Steinway Company in New York for a complete refurbishing. Cost was $25,000. The Steinway piano now lives in its own environmentally controlled room in the Cowichan Theatre and is lovingly cared for by piano tuner and technician Jim Anderson, of Victoria. Its estimated value is $ 150,000. The Cowichan Music Festival is affiliated with Performing Arts B.C.and the Federation of Canadian Music Festivals, which allows our award winning students to advance to a higher level of competition. Over the years many of our students have successfully performed at this level and many have gone on to have careers in the Performing Arts. The Cowichan Music Festival is organized and run by an Executive committee with help from a large group of volunteers. The Festival has no outside funding and is dependent on entry fees and performance attendance to pay for adjudication costs, theatre costs and rentals. The Executive Committee extends a large thank you to continued next page

Rock I Funk I Blues I Reggae I Latin I Metal

Paul Jutras

DRUM KIT AND HAND PERCUSSION LESSONS 35+ years experience- Private / One 2 One / Customized / Fun

Beginner to advanced - In your home or in my studio in Duncan

778-422-1034 I chopsdrumschool@gmail.com

Zak Stolk Violin Maker

25 Years Experience of Lutherie in the Italian Tradition.

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

Photo: Mrs. I. Tarlton, Mrs. M. Bruce, Mrs. M. Robertson 1963 taken by Jay Powley

individuals, schools, community groups, local government and businesses, churches and service clubs that have played such a significant role in supporting us over the last 70 years. www.cowichanmusicfestival.com

250-749-6563 zakviolins@shaw.ca www.zakviolins.com

oin us for an evening of jazz and wine. Blue Grouse Winery will be hosting jazz pianist Misha Piatigorsky for a cabaret style piano concert in our upstairs lounge. Vibrant jazz pianist, composer and producer, hailed by the Boston Globe as the artist who “beautifully merges the worlds of serious jazz and pop,” — Misha blends powerful melodies with an unusual harmonic sensitivity. It’s a sound with a deeply personal yet cosmopolitan dimension, reflecting his experience as a Russian-Jewish émigré growing up in urban America. The great nephew of legendary cellist Gregor Piatigorsky, with international upbringing followed by international acclaim, he works in New York City to advance the modern jazz

A Jazz Evening with Misha Piatigorsky sound beyond the standards. He leads a number of projects including The Sketchy Orkestra – his innovative ensemble band some 20 people strong. February 10th, Doors open at 5pm, concert starts at 6pm. Upstairs Lounge, Blue Grouse Winery Light dinner menu is available for purchase by Chef Chey Peterson as well as charcuterie boards and wine by the glass or bottle. Tickets $35 2182 Lakeside Rd Duncan, (250) 743-3834

Cowichan Folk Guild Monthly Coffeehouse

ur featured artists are Heartwood, the new duo of Jack Connolly and Genevieve Charboneau. Heartwood is the brand new, and perfect pairing of award-winning singer-songwriters Jack Connolly and Genevieve Charbonneau from the Cowichan Valley. Jack and Genevieve are outstanding performers in their own right, but when their songwriting talents, charisma and musical chops are combined, the result is roots and folk magic. Soulful harmonies

and the interplay of skillful guitar enrich original songs that are clever, intimate and highly accessible. Heartwood, which made its concert debut in November 2018 to rave reviews, casts a spell on live audiences that lasts long after the music is over. www.heartwoodmusic.ca Cowichan Folk Guild Monthly Coffeehouse Saturday February 9 Duncan United Church 246 Ingram St. Doors 7pm. Open stage starts at 7:30pm with the featured artists to follow. Admission $5 CFG Members $10 non-members 27

Locally made beer and chocolates a match made in Cowichan Cheryl Painter Yonge is head chocolatier and co-owner of Chocolate Pearl

f you live here in “Canada’s new Provence”, you’re probably familiar with the practice of pairing locallyproduced wine with food. Lesser known is the emerging trend of doing the same using Cowichan’s increasing selection of craft beers. Sure, you don’t necessarily need to consider beer pairings when you’re grabbing lunch with a friend or hosting a backyard barbecue. But what if the food has a broad selection of vastly different flavour profiles, like, say chocolate? What locally made beers might go best with the artisanal chocolates made at Duncan’s Chocolate Pearl? To help us come up with some

answers, we contacted our friends at Small Block Brewery, just across town from Chocolate Pearl on Chaster Road. As it turns out, Cate and Aaron had also been considering the possibilities. So, just last week we got together in the same room – Cate and Aaron with 8 of their fine craft beers and us with dozens of Chocolate Pearl chocolates. We know what you’re thinking and yes, it was a difficult assignment; eating chocolate and drinking beer all morning. However, we managed to pull it off and we’re pleased to share with you what we discovered.

Best pairings of Small Block beers and Chocolate Pearl chocolates. Up Cycle Nut Brown. Best paired with our Almond

Marzipan. Malardhat Best Bitter. Best paired with our Passion Fruit Caramel Pearl. Test and Tune I.P.A” Best paired with our Orange Ganache. Green Goblin Irish Red Ale. Best paired with our Hazelnut Meltie. Miss Lead Oatmeal Stout. Best paired with our Dark Salted Caramel. Hornet Blonde Ale. Best paired with our Passion Fruit Ganache. Nail Head Canadian Pale Ale. Best paired with our Ginger Mendiant.

Dagmar India Session Ale. Best paired with our Lemon Mint Ganache. Thanks Cate and Aaron, it was a lot of fun! To mark the occasion, Chocolate Pearl will soon be featuring an Ale Ganache infused with Small Block’s “Up Cycle Nut Brown Ale”. And regarding our findings, the pairings listed here are just our humble opinions. Have a taste yourself and you’ll undoubtedly come up with your own preferred pairings. Better yet, if you want to become very popular with your friends, consider throwing a “Locallymade Chocolates and Beer Pairing Party”! Both Small Block Brewery and Chocolate Pearl can help you out with that.

Chocolate Pearl 133 Craig Street Downtown Duncan. www.chocolatepearl.ca

SUPERBOWL SNACK Huli-Huli Chicken Wings Recipe courtesy Grant Easterbrook, The Olive Station, 225 Canada Ave, Downtown Duncan

My spin on the classic “Huli-Huli” chicken. And, the best part is that this recipe doesn’t require firing up the grill. The results are amazing right out of the oven!

Marinade Ingredients

1/3 cup soy sauce 1/4 cup of The Olive Station Original or Denissimo Balsamic Vinegar 1/4 cup honey 1/3 cup of The Olive Station Blackberry Ginger Balsamic 1-2 Tbsp. of The Olive Station Toasted sesame oil 1-2 or more pieces ginger root, crushed 3 cloves garlic, crushed 3 Tablespoons of The Olive Stations Baklouti Olive Oil (more for spicy) Scallions for garnish 4 pounds chicken drumsticks, wings, or cut up whole chicken

Method

Combine all the ingredients above except the scallions in a blender or food processor and process until smooth. Reserve a few tablespoons of marinade. Pour over the chicken and refrigerate for a minimum of 2 hours or overnight. Preheat oven to 400 degrees F. (or prepare a grill for indirect cooking) Line a large sheet pan with foil. Bake chicken until cooked through and skin is crispy about 4550 minutes. About 20 minutes through the process, turn the chicken pieces so that they crisp up evenly. Brush with additional reserved sauce as they come out of the oven and sprinkle with sliced scallions. Serve with rice, grain or starch of your choice.

“A mattress made for two shouldn’t be designed for one”. This is one of our favourite phrases, coined by the team from the Obasan brand, who we really resonate with. The mattress industry has gone so far the other way in their bed-in-the-box revolution that mattresses are being touted as life-changing on a one-stylefits-all model, while not taking into account that we all have different needs. When we started this idea of offering a mattress that was firmer on one side and softer on the other, the concept was foreign to most customers. The old model of one mattress working for all was being challenged, as it had always been the traditional way. One person almost always needed to compromise and this usually left one sleeper not satisfied. Why do companies feel like this is the right thing to do? If you have 2 people with completely different builds, it is unrealistic

If You Can Customize Your Coffee, Why Not Customize Your Mattress? to think that this conventional method is an effective solution. These decisions need to be made with more care and attention to an individual sleeper’s needs, patterns, positions and habits. Fast forward past extreme mattress marketing and you are left with vulnerable people

who need help with improving their sleep lives. Excellent sleep is proven to revolutionize our wakeful lives, with a list of health benefits that are astounding. Sleep truly is the new fountain of youth and without it being a priority, it can wreak havoc on our lives. I know that for me personally, when I go through stretches of sleep deprivation, my sugar addiction kicks in, as well as my mood swings, which can ultimately lead to mild depression and anxiety. It’s a vicious cycle that I know so many us struggle with, and its effects emerge in numerous negative ways. After having been in the industry for such a long time, I have found that we are not so different in what we need, based on our height, build and sleeping position. Mattress customization is here to stay and with our addition of Canadian made Obasan to our offerings, we now have customization 3.0. Not only can we adjust each side, we now have the

ability to fit our customers with different firmnesses, specifically focusing on bodyweight distribution, giving us the ability to narrow in on our customers’ particular areas of need (shoulders and hips). Guess and Hope are no longer words to be used when picking a life enhancing/changing sleep system. It’s almost like getting a prescription filled. With mattress customization we have ability to be extremely accurate. The next time you are looking for a mattress, take my points into consideration. The right sleep solutions have long term benefits. So, make sure you are educating yourself and looking at all the options for what you need. Sweet dreams.... Resthouse Sleep Solutions 126 Station Street, Downtown Duncan Chris Manley CSO - Chief Sleep Officer Resthouse Sleep Solutions resthouse.ca

procedure needs to be repeated every 3 months.

otox, best known for smoothing wrinkles, continues to amaze the medical community with its ongoing new applications for medical conditions. Fifty years ago, researchers showed that injecting tiny amounts of botulinum toxin relaxed overactive muscles by blocking the release of acetylcholine, a neurochemical essential for muscle contraction. The drug is now approved for many medical conditions as well as for cosmetic conditions. There are many more potential uses of Botox currently being investigated. Botox, a naturally purified protein, is considered safe if administered by a licensed professional, in appropriate doses, for the indication to be treated. Did you know Botox can be used for the following conditions? CHRONIC MIGRAINES Botox can be very effective for the treatment of chronic migraines when injected in a protocol to the face, neck and upper back. This protocol should be done by either a neurologist or a family physician with special training in the procedure. In many cases, patients achieve a significant reduction in the frequency and intensity of their migraines which allows them to decrease oral medication. The

EXCESSIVE UNDERARM SWEATING Hyperhidrosis can be effectively treated with Botox. It relaxes the muscles in the axilla around sweat glands to achieve a reduction in sweating. With this treatment, you won’t be restricted to wearing dark shirts to hide underarm stains! Botox treatments can also work to reduce sweating in hands. OVERACTIVE BLADDER Botox can be used by a trained specialist (urologist) to treat this condition if she / he thinks it is indicated. CROSSED EYES (STRABISMUS) One of the first disorders to be treated with Botox was Strabismus. DEPRESSION Clinical trials are under way to investigate the benefit of Botox for some people with depression. It is based on the facial feedback hypothesis which suggests that a person’s facial expression can affect their mood. Look less sad, feel less sad. MULTIPLE SCLEROSIS People with this condition can have severe, debilitating spasms and tightness of large muscles. Botox injected into these muscles can help with relaxation and potentially allow less oral medication use. EASING ANAL FISSURE An anal fissure is a tear in the

Botox - Beyond Cosmetic Fixes lining of the anal canal and can cause severe pain and bleeding. Medical treatments include the use of prescription creams. Botox has also been used for more than 15 years and numerous studies have confirmed its effectiveness. At present, there are over 100 clinical trials being conducted to investigate further potential uses of Botox. Safety issues, as with all medication, are paramount before the drug can be approved for use. If you are considering Botulinum toxin injection for either cosmetic or medical reasons, the standard caveats apply: 1. Look for a LICENSED PHYSICIAN who is trained and has extensive experience in the use of Botox in the area you wish treated. 2. Before the treatment, make sure you tell the physician your full medical history, the list of

DOWNTOWN

DUNCAN

250 510 8700

medications you may be taking, and any allergies or sensitivities you may have. 3. Make sure your physician will follow up with you and be available after treatment should any problems arise. BOTOX is a very useful drug providing it is administered by a licensed physician, used in appropriate doses, and injected in the right areas. Dr. Lyn Pascoe Viva Medical Aesthetics

Viva Medical Aesthetics 177 4th Street Downtown Duncan 250 746-6512

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

#105 80 Station Street - Please use Craig St entrance 32

Cowichan Historical Society 1932 Members of the Cowichan Historical Society (Source: CVMA 990.02.12.5)

o written articles on history and speakers on history catch your attention? Do museum collections and operations also catch your attention? For more than forty years the Cowichan Historical Society has been serving the community by providing educational talks and programming as well as preserving Cowichan Valley artifacts and archival materials within the Cowichan Valley Museum and Archives. The all-volunteer, non-profit Society is looking to increase its membership in order to continue its mission of preserving and celebrating history within the Cowichan Valley. Are you interested in increasing your own knowledge about local history, and in using your skills, networks and ideas to help the Society and the Cowichan Valley Museum and Archives thrive and evolve in the coming years? If so, please join us! The Cowichan Historical Society meets at 7:30 pm on the 3rd Thursday of every month, September to June, for a short half-hour meeting at St. Peterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Quamichan Church Hall, 5800 Church Road, just off Maple Bay Road. Following the business part of the evening, members are then provided with a presentation

from inspiring speakers and authors on a wide variety of local, or Vancouver Island related, historical topics. Coffee, tea and cookies are available at the conclusion of the talk along with an opportunity to mingle and chat with the speaker and Society members in attendance. Membership fees are $20 annually and come with such benefits as select previews of new exhibitions at the Cowichan Valley Museum in the former train station on Canada Avenue, e-newsletters and a $5 discount off a subscription to the quarterly BC History Magazine. The next Society meeting is set for Thursday, February 21st at 7:30 pm at St. Peterâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Quamichan Church Hall, 5800 Church Road, Duncan. The featured speaker is Lynn Starter, a recognized Maple Bay historian and author. We look forward to seeing you! Submitted by Carolyn Prellwitz

Cowichan Historical Society Cowichan Valley Museum 130 Canada Avenue Downtown Duncan 250.746.6612

Exquisitely hand-crafted works of art Imagine That! Artisans’ Designs

Big Brothers Big Sisters Bowl For Kids Sake

251 Craig St., Downtown Duncan

imaginethatartisans.com I 250-748-6776

WILLOWANDORCHID.COM

Weekly and monthly floral subscriptions • Weddings & Events • Customized Gift Crates • Floral Design Classes and Workshops • Sympathy Arrangements • Online, Telephone and Email Ordering • Delivery 101 Station Street Downtown Duncan 250-748-9868 willowandorchid@gmail.com 34

o you love to go bowling with friends? Looking for a fun outing for employees or co-workers? Register a team for Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Cowichan Valley’s annual BOWL FOR KIDS SAKE! The event takes place on Sunday March 3rd at Duncan Lanes. Start times are either 12:30pm or 3:00pm. Recruit a team of 6 bowlers – ask friends & family or make a workplace team. Assign a team captain. Complete your team registration form and submit to the Big Brothers Big Sisters office. The next step is to fundraise! Ask for pledges, hold a bottle drive or bake sale. Each team of 6 is required to raise a minimum of $300 (or $50 per team member). At the event, there will be prizes, raffles, and 50/50 draws. This year’s theme is THE AWESOME 80s so dress up and come ready for some awesome fun! If you don’t want to bowl but still want to contribute, inquire about our event sponsorship opportunities for businesses. The funds you raise go directly towards matching atrisk children with caring Big Brothers and Big Sisters. Your participation ensures more children in the Cowichan

Valley have a positive role model that makes a difference in their lives. When children experience regular contact with a mentor who listens, encourages and supports them, they’re in a position to accomplish new goals and grow in many new ways that builds them up for success. Studies show that having a caring mentor positively impacts brain development and equips children and youth with the skills needed to deal with the adversities and stress they face in a complicated world. This fundraising event is about YOU having fun while helping local children. Call 250-748-2447 to get your registration package today!

Submitted by Julie Pyon

Big Brothers Big Sisters of the Cowichan Valley 60 Ingram Street Downtown Duncan (250) 748-2447

They would go on to chase whaling boats, organize peaceful actions and open Greenpeace offices around the world, their photogenic activism capturing the imagination of millions of people. They would discover the difficulties of organizing at massive scales previously unimaginable. And they would have adventures that tested their beliefs - in themselves, each other and their cause.

How To Change The World Film Presents Lessons From The Founders Of Greenpeace

s the 24-hour news cycle

pummels us with examples

of our broken system and its impacts on human life and the planet, it’s hard not to want to bury our heads. We’re overwhelmed by the problems and the enormity of the work to solve them; we feel defeated before we’ve even said yes to trying.

The impacts to the ecosystem were devastating. Bob joined a small group of concerned citizens to organize a protest, together chartering a boat bound for Amchitka, where the next bomb would be tested.

But we miss out when we don’t get out there and try.

None of them were sailors, and they weren’t sure what they’d do once they got there. When they discovered they weren’t going to be able to stop the bomb, they pulled out their cameras. And the footage went “viral.”

Bob Hunter was a Vancouver Sun columnist when he decided to try. It was the late 1960s and the Nixon administration was conducting underground nuclear testing off the Alaskan coast.

Returning to Vancouver, they were received as heroes, fuelling them on. Marrying pacifism with eco-justice, Greenpeace was born - and with it, the modern environmental movement.

The story of this rag-tag group is brilliantly captured in the documentary How To Change The World, which will be screening in Duncan on February 1 as part of Collective Space’s bi-monthly film talks. Through little-seen archival material, including gobs of 16mm footage from the front lines, the film shows us what a small group is capable of when they take some initiative. It also shows us why we still have whales.

that you can? Join like-minded changemakers and wannabes for this riveting film talk on February 1. Collective Space Movie Nights are every other Friday. Advanced tickets are recommended: collectivespace. org/hooviemovie. Can’t make it? Host your own screening of How To Change The World at https://hoovie.movie. Submitted by Hilary Henegar

Collective Space 166 Station Street Downtown Duncan

After the film, Greenpeace campaigner Eduardo Sousa will join the discussion, sharing insights into the organization’s more recent work (and prizes for a trivia contest!). Want to change the world? Need proof

Happy Hour Daily 3-5pm featuring a weekly cocktail $7.50

Now Open

www.theainslie.ca 161 Kenneth St., Duncan 250-597-3695

JOIN US FOR DINNER

OPEN Tuesday to Saturday

look for our daily specials on 40 Ingram Street

www.theoldﬁrehouse.ca

Downtown Duncan

(250) 597-3473

Open 7 days a week 11-3pm in the SOL-Centre 5380 Trans-Canada HWY Duncan, BC Love is in the air this month and we have a beauty-full selection of gifts to honour the loved ones in your life. Come by to ďŹ nd our stunning selec-tion of VitaJuwel gemstone water bottles, unique gemstone jewelry, Autumn Skye artworks, locally handcrafted eco-clothing & accessories, pre-cious crystals and more! In the spirit of love, we invite you to join us for some sweet savings on February 14th; where you can draw a sacred stone and receive up to 33% off your purchase (does not apply to consignment or already discounted items). Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re open 7 days a week 11am- 3pm in the Sol-centre (beside the BIG Community Farm Store). Find us on Instagram @cfsforthesoul and Like us on our CFS for the Soul Facebook Page for event and product details, upcoming events, announcements and more.

Preschool and Kindergarten Programs - Which Is The Right Fit For Us? Now that you have spent precious years imprinting your love and family values on your little one, the time has come to introduce them to an early childhood schooling program. How do you choose? When exploring the options keep some questions in mind to keep you focused. What early school experience would I like for my child? Am I willing to drive a distance for the right fit, or is one close by a better idea. The following pages feature some of the most notable preschool and kindergarten programs in the Cowichan Valley. Call them, meet with them, take a tour. These early years are important, and the ones you choose to care for and teach your children are too. Image courtesy of Queen of Angels

QUEEN OF ANGELS EARLY LEARNING CENTRE FOR 3 TO 5 YEAR OLDS 2085 Maple Bay Rd, Duncan 250-746-5919 www.queenofangels.ca Our Early Learning Centre is a very lively, happy place. The children are encouraged from the onset to be confident, independent learners in a structured, child-friendly and stimulating environment. The manner in which the children work & play reflects the ethos of the school. This provides a firm foundation for their personal growth and the skills required to become lifelong learners in an ever-changing world.

Our FULL day Early Learning Centre program goals are to: • Provide an age appropriate program of academic and social enrichment. • Develop manual skills within each child’s individual capacity. • Provide a daily routine which includes free play, art activities, songs, stories, music & movement, gym time, library, prayer, and the handwriting without tears program. • Develop Kindergarten readiness skills. • Surround the child with God’s love and guidance as an integral part of his or her daily life. Queen of Angels Early Learning Centre Operates from 8:45am 2:45pm 37

Image courtesy of Duncan Christian School

Call us to take a tour with Principal Jeremy Tinsley. Admissions accepted all school year depending on availability.

495 Beech Avenue, Duncan 250 746 3654 www.duncanchristianschool.ca

We offer a variety of flexible programs: Monday/Wednesday/Friday Tuesday/Thursday or 5 days per week Upcoming events: Ready, Set, Learn Event Thursday, February 28, 2019 from 5:30 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 6:30pm

DUNCAN CHRISTIAN SCHOOL 495 Beech Ave, Duncan 250 746-3654 www.duncanchristian school.ca Duncan Christian Schoolâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Kindergarten program has been proud to be part of an inclusive, nurturing community of learners and families for 58 years in the Cowichan Valley. With options of both full and part-time offerings, DCS is able to address the varying needs of families. In the DCS Kindergarten, students

are part of a safe, secure environment that provides well-rounded learning opportunities for the whole child and integrates Christian teachings throughout the program. Through play-based activities in a well-planned and structured classroom, children can develop and grow to their potential in all areas of growth: personal/ social/emotional., language and communications, literary, mathematics, science and critical thinking, expressive arts and design, spiritual and physical. Daily physical activity and brain exercises are made easy by the wellequipped gymnasium and a large, outdoor play area and adjoining playing fields. It would be our great pleasure to take you and your children on a tour! Please call 250 746-3654, office@ duncanchristian.com, www. duncanchristianschool. ca Facebook, Instagram & Twitter.

Image courtesy Cara Bjornson, Sunrise Waldorf School

SUNRISE WALDORF SCHOOL 2148 Lakeside Rd, Duncan 250 743-7253 www.sunrisewaldorf school.org Nature and Nurture In the Sunrise Waldorf School Early Childhood Education programs puddle jumping days are everyone’s favorite! With an emphasis and reverence for nature, our little ones spend a great deal of time outdoors every day, rain or shine. The outdoor activities include walking, digging, swinging, jumping, splashing, and rolling, just to name a few. Our early childhood education programs emphasize open ended learning, and we believe that the work of the child is to play.

Opportunities for exploring through one’s imagination and for moving the body are foundations of the Waldorf Early Childhood Education philosophy.

Image courtesy Cara Bjornson, Sunrise Waldorf School

Strong daily rhythms and repetition allow the children to sink deeply into their play. Teachings are offered through the lens of daily, weekly, and seasonal rhythms, all of which creates the foundation for the young child to feel safe and free to explore. In an ever changing and fast paced world, the Waldorf Preschool and Kindergartens are a place where simplicity is celebrated and where childhood is preserved and held with love If you are interested in hearing more about why Waldorf Education works, or to register for one of our upcoming Open House events, please contact

Chantey Dayal – Director of Admissions today. 250.743.7253 or

admissions@ sunrisewaldorfschool.org.

PRESCHOOL & KINDERGARTEN

OPEN HOUSE

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

OPEN HOUSE Preschool Saturday, February 9 - 10AM - 12 pm

2148 LAKESIDE RD, DUNCAN 250 743-7253

Upcoming Open House Dates KINDERGARTEN Saturday, March 2 - 10am - 12pm Saturday, March 30 - 10am - 12pm PRESCHOOL Saturday, May 4 - 9:30am - 11am

www.sunrisewaldorfschool.org

RSVP Required

Image courtesy Queen Margaret’s School

QUEEN MARGARET’S SCHOOL 660 Brownsey Avenue Duncan 250 746-4185 www.qms.bc.ca

Limited Space Available for September 2019

For over 97 years Queen Margaret’s School (QMS) has been offering a superior educational experience for boys and girls. Students learn through experiential and inquiry-based learning which fosters entrepreneurial thinking and problem-solving skills. What makes QMS unique? Students have the opportunity to engage in a variety of equine-focused classes from traditional riding lessons to Equestrian Management, and our new Equine Facilitated Leadership Program. Whether in the classroom or in the ring, students develop life-enhancing skills such as self-awareness, inquisitiveness, and empathy. Children ages 3-4 can begin in our Early Childhood Education (ECE) program, which offers a mix of age appropriate activities that promote social, physical, academic, and artistic development in a nurturing environment. As part of the learning experience, students have access to libraries, a gymnasium, and are provided with healthy meals and snacks. Children are encouraged to explore, experiment and express

themselves in a safe, open atmosphere, while developing the skills needed to succeed in Kindergarten. New world. New challenges. New learning.

EVERGREEN INDEPENDENT SCHOOL 3515 Watson Ave, Cobble Hill 250 743-2433 www.evergreenbc.net Evergreen Independent School is proud to offer a variety of Early Childhood Programming; Explorers for 3 year olds, Pre-K and Kindergarten. Our Early Childhood programming supports students in building important skills and behaviours in an inclusive, play-based environment. We strive to help each and every child to develop a positive attitude towards learning and to develop a sense of confidence and self-esteem. Children are natural learners and we support all of our students on their journey to learn to share, co-operate, be responsible, problem-solve, self-express and most importantly, have fun! Evergreen’s well-established programs are led by experienced Early Childhood Educators and BC Certified Teachers in a warm and welcoming setting. We have a beautiful, safe, fully-fenced outdoor space that we use

everyday, digging in the garden, exploring the woods and learning from each other. Evergreen has a certified gluten-free kitchen that allows all students to explore food literacy and prepare some healthy snacks, sometimes right from our own garden! We are proud of our ability to offer Image courtesy Evergreen music programming to all of our students, Independent School the benefits of music The preschoolâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s two education are proven and we classrooms are located in a see this in our students. beautiful two storey house We love to share what our school is about, contact us! on the grounds of Shawnigan Lake School, with large SHAWNIGAN LAKE gardens which back onto a MONTESSORI forest, providing wonderful PRESCHOOL AND opportunities for natural exploration and play. The CHILDCARE classrooms are thoughtfully 1979 Renfrew Rd, prepared environments, Shawnigan Lake equipped with certified 250 743-6279 Montessori materials which shawniganlake the children can freely montessori.com explore and interact with. This freedom to touch At Shawnigan Lake and experience, inside the Montessori we focus on classroom and outside in the providing a caring and natural world, contributes respectful educational to maintaining the childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s experience for every child, natural joy of discovery and where they have the freedom growth and encourages a to develop naturally and lifelong love of learning For without pressure. We offer more information contact a full Montessori program Nicky Macdonald, manager at for children from 3 years shawniganlakemontessori@ to 6 years, including a shaw.ca or by phone at kindergarten program. 250 743 6279. Image courtesy Shawngan Lake Montessori

You Are Not Alone Child Care Resource & Referral

inding quality child care that is a good fit for your family can be a challenge. In BC we are fortunate to have Child Care Resource & Referral programs (CCRR), funded by the Province, to offer free services for all families to access a child care referral list, information on how to choose quality child care and assistance in applying for the Affordable Child Care Benefit program. On September 1, 2018, the Affordable Child Care Benefit replaced the Child Care Subsidy. The new funding is helping families with the cost of child care, depending on factors like family size, type of care and household income. Now households earning up to $111,000 may be eligible for savings of up to $1,250 a month per child, regardless if you are self-employed or an employee. To see if you are eligible and to apply online visit https:// www2.gov.bc.ca/gov/content/ family-social-supports/caring-for-young-children/childcare-funding/child-care-benefit It is a good idea to leave yourself plenty of time to find

child care as there is still a shortage of available child care spaces. The BC government has a new strategy in place to create more spaces that are available and affordable, the strategy includes training early childhood educators, this will take time as the buildings need to be built and qualified trained staff hired. You are not alone, if you need help looking for child care or if you are interested in opening your own family child care facility or need support and recourses for your current facility, the Cowichan Valley CCRR is your partner for success! The CCRR will help you complete the application process to access Affordable Child Care Benefits or navigate provincial child care regulations and available funding and bursary opportunities, plus we have a great resource library for child care providers and parents. The Cowichan Valley Child Care Resource & Referral program looks forward to assisting you in choosing or offering quality child care, contact 250-746-4135 Ext 231. Submitted by Carmen Barclay

West Side Story

rentwood College School proudly presents West Side Story, the landmark musical adaption of Romeo and Juliet, transplanted to the violent streets of New York where the “star-crossed lovers” are caught between prejudice and warring street gangs. From the first notes to the final breath, West Side Story is one of the most memorable musicals and greatest love stories of all time. Arthur Laurents’ book remains as powerful, poignant and timely as ever. The score by Leonard Bernstein and lyrics by Stephen Sondheim are widely regarded as among the best ever written. The world’s greatest love story takes to the streets in this landmark Broadway musical that is one of the theatre’s finest accomplishments. Shakespeare’s Romeo and Juliet is transported to modern-day New York City as two young, idealistic lovers find themselves caught between warring street gangs, the “American” Jets and the Puerto Rican Sharks. Their struggle to survive in a world of hate,

violence and prejudice is one of the most innovative, heart-wrenching and relevant musical dramas of our time. The creative team who have been working with a large cast of students from our musical theatre programme for this production include Phil Newns as Music Director, Lorraine Blake, Choreographer, Don Armitage, Technical Director, Set Design and Build, James O’Leary, Costumes, Sally Smith and Director/Producer, Edna Widenmaier. Performances are Feb. 27, 28, March 1 and 2 with two performances on the 2nd. Tickets are available on line: theatre. brentwood.bc.ca. Don’t miss this opportunity to see one the great shows of the American musical songbook.

curriculum in a highly supported environment while being introduced to various aspects of the School program. Brentwood prides itself on being a modern, innovative place of learning and this program is designed to support that tradition. While an extension of the Grade 9- 12 school, the Brentwood Grade 8 class has its own independent timetable, focus and attention.

Grade Eight At Brentwood

n 2014, Brentwood College School responded to the demand in the Cowichan Valley created by the government decision to remove all middle schools and integrate the Grade 8s into the high school system. In response, Brentwood introduced a preparatory Grade 8 class for day students. This program provides the opportunity for a superior

educational experience, specially designed for the middle school learner. It acts as a bridge to high school, giving Grade 8s the opportunity to prepare themselves for secondary learning and beyond. The program is now in its 5th year and has been a great success. Students are able to ease into the Brentwood

Experiential learning is at the heart of the Grade 8 experience and the students start off fully embracing this concept. Every year begins with an off-campus adventure. After this experience, bonds are created and the students are ready to start off their year-long academic journey on a positive note. During all three terms, in conjunction with all the fun they have, students also manage to get down to the business of school. Skill

acquisition is the cornerstone of the program. There is a recognition that students acquire and develop skills at different rates and the program works to cater to these. Important executive function and life skills are practiced and developed, including: planning, organization, time management, metacognition, emotional control, task initiation, flexibility, following instructions, self-advocacy, accountability, assessment preparation as well as health and wellness practices. In addition, supporting the tripartite philosophy of the school, sports teams and fine arts groups are buoyed along by our young Grade 8 participants. The Grade 8 program is a rewarding one that enriches both the students in the program and the community of Brentwood College School. Find out more about the Grade 8 program at grade8@ brentwood.bc.ca

Why Gardening Is Good For You

FEBRUARY

CHOOSE YOUR SEEDS www.dinternursery.ca

KNOW BEFORE YOU SOW

We have everything you need to start your seeds! Seed Starter Soil • Heat Mats Open-pollinated and heritage seeds • Peat pots • Heat dome and trays • Cell Packs • Unusual seed selections from Baker Creek Seeds and BC Eco Seed Co-op Full West Coast Seeds Selection

Serving local gardeners since 1973

250 748 2023

5km South of Duncan on Hwy 1

Monica Dockerty, Dockerty Gardens horticulturist and Dinter Nursery employee.

t is easy to take the garden for granted and not make the most of the green spaces we have. It is also easy to envy our neighbours’ beautiful perennial borders or perfect vegetable harvests, but gardens are much more than this. Certain polls report Canadians are spending up to 95% of their time indoors; we are spending more time being sedentary, and 1 in 5 of us will experience a mental illness in our lifetime. What we could all benefit from is spending some more time in our gardens. Gardening has been positively associated with a range physical health outcomes, including decreased blood pressure, lower BMI, and higher physical activity levels. One study has shown that if elderly people participate in daily gardening, they achieve recommended physical activity levels. Gardening is also a great activity to help stay flexible and maintain mobility. Young children can also learn and practice locomotor skills, body management skills and object control skills in the garden, while they move from one place to another carrying water, tools or soil. Not only good for the body, but also good for the mind, studies have found a significant reduction in depression and anxiety symptoms following time spent in the garden. An analysis of 22 studies showed

a positive relationship between gardening and increased attentional capacity and increased self-esteem. Some schools of thought believe gardening is good for mental health because of its restorative qualities. Being in the garden can give people a feeling of escape from the daily stresses of life, while also helping people to feel a sense of connection to a larger world. This can ultimately lead to feeling more relaxed and restored after spending time in the garden. Gardening is also a great way to keep your brain sharp. One longitudinal study found that daily gardening can lower the risk of dementia by up to 36%. Gardens, especially community gardens, also create a great space to provide necessary social opportunities, not only for those who tend to plants, but also for people that want to enjoy them. If you want to encourage your kids to care about the environment, take them into the garden. Gardens are fantastic spaces to

teach about weather, geology, wildlife and all of nature’s wonder. It is also a great space to teach kids about the importance of teamwork! Many hands make light work. Lastly, being outside can unlock a sense of creativity, imagination and play. Planting a seed, growing a vegetable, and picking a flower does not only give us beauty and food on our table. It has the potential to be much more than that. It can provide social interactions for people feeling isolated, a place of restoration for people experiencing mental distress, and a space to be creative and have fun! *If you are interested in obtaining web links to studies mentioned please send email to: dockertygardens@ gmail.com

West Coast Farm & Garden Show “We have neglected the truth that a good farmer is a craftsman of the highest order, a kind of artist.” ― Wendell Berry

February 22nd-24th Tofino Botanical Gardens 1084 Pacific Rim Hwy, Tofino Admission donation $2; $10 per workshop; $40 weekend pass to all workshops For schedule visit www.tofinocommunity foodinitiative.com

he West Coast Farm & Garden Show is a grassroots, community driven event that brings together farmers, backyard growers, and food enthusiasts of our region. Through workshops and presentations, we will be providing the skills and inspiration needed to tackle the challenges of growing food on the west coast. Eating local is not only delicious, it also reduces our carbon footprint and helps support farmers in our neighbouring communities. With spring planting just around the corner, join us as we come together to celebrate the craftsmanship of local food growing. Attendees can expect a lineup of workshops with celebrated food growing experts from across Vancouver Island. Feature events include an “Off-the-Grid” dinner with Picnic Charcuterie, a screening of “Living the Change” in partnership with Tofino

Film Festival, and a “FarmedForaged-Found” fundraiser dinner in collaboration with Heartwood Kitchen. Parents and grandparents are encouraged to bring their children: we will have free childminding provided by Tofino Nature Kids for those attending workshops, hay rides, facepainting and other family friendly activities. Solidarity Snacks will be providing lunch, available for purchase. For farmers, this weekend is an opportunity to meet other producers in our region, expand your toolkit of agricultural knowledge, and connect with markets on the west coast. Food lovers can stock their pantries and gardening sheds by visiting our Farmer’s Market Co-op table, Seed Swapping table, and the many other regional vendors that will be selling gardening/ farming tools, equipment, & supplies throughout the weekend. Visit the booths of community organizations involved that support food growing and food security initiatives to learn more about how you can get involved in the local food movement . The Tofino Community Food Initiative is a non-profit community group dedicated to fostering food security on the west coast through gardening workshops, community gardens, and food literacy programs. We continue this work with the support of our community partners and incredible volunteers. We gratefully acknowledge the Tofino Botanical Gardens Foundation, Tourism Tofino, the District of Tofino, Eat West Coast, AlberniClayoquot Regional District, and Alberni Valley Transition Town for supporting this event.

Our products will help you to grow healthier plants and make every garden task easier

ALDER AND MAPLE BARK MULCH Alder Sawdust Alder Wood Chips Cedar Chips Kiln Dried Alder Lumber

Address: 3353 Smiley Road, Chemainus

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250 246 8431 250 701 7246

Call to arrange pick up or delivery To volunteer sign-up at tofinocommunityfoodinitiative. com/get_involved Looking for more details? Like us on Facebook Tofino Community Food Initiative & Follow us on Instagram @

tofinolocalfood.

Image; Jenn Heckert (Tofino Community Food Initiative board member) selling locally grown produce, plant starts, eggs, pickled kelp and Tofino Local Food tote bags.

February Is The Month For Pruning

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ebruary is the shortest month of the year and it’s the time when we begin to shake off the winter blues and get ready for the gardening season ahead. It’s a time to go through your seeds before ordering more, clean up your tools, plan your planting schedule and organize yourself. February is usually quite mild and it is traditionally the time when we get out and begin pruning our dormant fruit trees on the coast. Productive fruit trees result from good cultural practices, including pruning. Pruning is often overlooked due to a lack of skills and knowledge or a fear that we will injure or kill the trees by making a wrong cut. You may wonder why we bother to prune fruit trees; we’ve all seen older, overgrown trees that produce fruit regardless. These older varieties had been popular in their time for their compact growth, hardiness, disease resistance and longevity. These trees produced fruit that was full of flavour and required minimal pruning. The fruit trees on offer now are newer varieties that became more popular for their larger production qualities but the now also require regular, careful pruning. There are many benefits

to keep a yearly pruning program including: • creating an open and attractive shape that will let in the light and air, creating a healthier tree and more abundant and quality fruit. • helping maintain the size of your trees and reduce limb breakage and • taking time to observe any disease, damage or over wintering insects. You do need a few specialized tools depending on the size of the stems you intend to cut. A set of bypass shears for branches up to an inch in diameter, a set of long handled loppers for wood an inch to 2 inches is required and a good hand saw for larger branches is recommended. A good sturdy ladder is helpful for taller trees but we recommend a proper orchard ladder for safety. Lastly, taking the time to apply dormant oil and sulphur spray at the same time is very beneficial as it will repel, discourage feeding and suffocate overwintering pests and help with powdery mildew and leaf curl. Make sure you get the organic vegetable based oil as other products are petroleum based. If you have questions or are unsure, the knowledgeable staff at Ceres Edible Landscape would be happy to assist you. Please email Janice at janice@ cowichangreencommunity,org or call 250-748-8506.

Working with a Garden Design Professional Melanie Roberts GARDEN GATE Flowers & Design (250) 510 - 5339 www.gardengateflowers.ca

o, it’s the middle of winter, and you have a little time on your hands. You look out the window for any signs of spring and ponder your yard. Perhaps you are wishing it all looked a little more exciting this time of year, or that you had a little more privacy. Perhaps you are dreaming of a lush, colourful outdoor escape when the weather finally warms up. These are excellent starting points for working with a garden designer. After living in a home for a while, we become accustomed to the way things are and have trouble imagining other possibilities. We may be looking at a blank slate around a new build and wondering how best to use the space. Or we buy an older

home with an overgrown yard and aren’t sure where to start or what to aim for. A good designer is someone who loves to imagine possibilities for a space, likes to problem solve and comes up with creative solutions. The design process can take many forms depending on the scale of the project. A short consultation or brainstorming session may be all that’s required to address small problematic areas and figure out a plan to move forward. A full landscape design may be needed for new builds and significant re-invention of an existing yard. This would include discussions on needs, desires, problematic areas and budget, as well as a detailed site assessment including the condition of any existing plants and infrastructure. Once you establish what you would like to do - then the fun begins. I like to start with a conceptual plan that

addresses all of these issues and launches the discussion forward, often with the aid of some preliminary threedimensional images. This is where people get excited, as they can visualize the changes, draw lines on plan maps, make adjustments and consider new suggestions from the designer. A final plan will include several elements: a detailed layout of all the elements of the new yard, planting plans and plant lists, and construction drawings if needed for working with contractors. Many people

chose to do the work in more manageable stages, as time, budget and energy allow, so an implementation strategy can be very useful. Most of all, the design process should be fun! If you’ve reached a stage where you’re considering change, open yourself up to new ideas and start dreaming… www.gardengateflowers.ca

Concert With Freedom Gospel Choirs And Guest Maureen Washington

Margot Page

Enamelling on Copper and Steel

he Duncan and Victoria Freedom Gospel choirs join once again in performing, along with renowned guest vocalist Maureen Washington, songs of JOY for their audiences. Directed by Ann Antonides and accompanied by Tanya Gillespie, the performances will feature songs composed specially for the combined choir (a group of nearly 90 talented voices). Cara McCandless will accompany on Bass Guitar and Sheri Clayton on the Drums.

JOY isn’t like happiness which is based upon happenings or whether things are going well or not. No, JOY remains even amidst the suffering. The choirs and Maureen will bring to life the stories of triumph in amongst anguish by singing Jewelery • Vases • Journals • Guestbooks a wide range of spirituals, Frames • Bookmarks • Magnets • Lightswitch Plates Gospel, African and Jazz including the well-known song Available locally at: Imagine That Artisans ‘Joyful, Joyful’ from the movie Rainforest Arts • Artzi Stuff • TOSH ‘Sister Act’. Maureen also will quaylecard.inddwww.margotpage.com 1 8/8/2011 3:23:00 PM 250 746 8446 be singing several solo pieces in her rich, captivating tones at these concerts not to be missed! Canadian/International Jazz singer, Maureen Washington is one of Vancouver Island’s most sought after vocalists. Her rich tones and captivating

emotions have cultivated large audiences with her styling that encompasses the soul of Etta James, Carmen McRae and the modernity of Holly Cole. And yet she remains a voice of her own. Maureen began her musical career in her home town of Prince George, British Columbia. Her vocal diversity lent itself to performances of blues, swing, jazz and funk with BOP, a band widely acclaimed as the best dance band in the Prince George region. Their versatile repertoire, ranging from Jazz and R&B classics to lively originals, brought them sold out crowds. The audience is in for a real treat with two concert dates set to accommodate the numbers expected to attend. The first concert in Victoria on the 9th February, 6:30pm at the First Church of the Nazarene on Quadra Street and then again the following week on Saturday 16th February, 2pm at the Duncan Reformed Church on Trunk Road. For more information visit www.freedomgospelchoir.ca or find us on Facebook.

2019 -- The Year To Re-Connect With Your True Self And Your Beloved!

ollowing my amazing, life-altering experience with Connected Living and their fabulous Core Awakening workshop (see the January issue of Valley Voice), I was eager for more personal growth and Integrative Body Psychotherapy (IBP). IBP is a safe mind-body psychotherapy that treats the whole person, integrating body, mind, emotions, and spirit. I love this wonderful approach and my body loves it too! This work facilitates deep, meaningful inner growth and health with lasting results. Visit www.ibponline.org I learned so much about my true Self in the Core Awakening workshop, I now deeply understand the cost of my longheld emotional pain and trauma -- I had lost my Self in the “us” … I was defined by “us” in our very full life, and I was not able to be truly intimate on all levels with my beloved, as I so longed to be. What I also realized is that I had forgotten how to be a lover and to be present as a willing intimate partner. The trauma I suffered before age 30, was coming up for healing, and sadly it had been affecting our relationship in negative ways for a long time. We are very in sync in the rest of the areas of our lives, we are incredible business partners, we truly are twin flames, we adore each other, and love spending most of our time together! True intimacy (“in-to-me-see”) was missing in our life moment-bymoment, and it was high time

for intimate re-connection with each other and healing. Last Fall, we immersed ourselves in Connected Living’s Connected Couples experiential workshop. It is an intense and rewarding experience to re-discover the sacred and profound in relationships, and deepen ones authenticity, vulnerability and intimacy. For two and a half days our loving, patient, compassionate and embodied facilitators Margie and Mitch, led couples through an exploration of our selves, and each other. We gained skills, techniques, language, awareness, truth and a real desire from both of us to continue the amazing intimacy adventure life offers. The workshops also taught us more about the art of loving each other intimately, putting ourselves and each other first, and rowing in the same direction, being aware of the others’ boundaries, words and language. IBP is such powerful and loving way of working through issues, speed bumps and tough stuff. It was an enriching and rewarding experience for us both, and we are very grateful to ourselves, each other and the Connected Living team for this amazing offering. If all of us had the opportunity to connect in this deep and meaningful way, we would embody peace, love and compassion! February is the month of ‘LOVE’ and a wonderful time to consider if the time is NOW to discover the true depth of your intimate relationship with your beloved. You can become a more connected partner, parent and individual too, and re-connect with your true Self on a deep level. If this resonates with you, the next

Connected Couples workshop is May 17, 18 and 19 at the Oceanfront Suites in Cowichan Bay. The 2019 Core Awakening seminar series is coming up fast at the end of this month… this is an experiential program to connect with your Self, breath and body and your inner narrative. For more info, visit www.connectedlivingseminars. ca or contact Shawna at 250 709 5501.

It is such a worthwhile investment to explore our selves in this way. It has been life-changing for me and I am passionate to share far and local about Connected Living and their incredible offerings. Happy 2019! The year of Connection!

Diana Pink is a Holistic Health Practitioner & Mentor -A Fresh Start ~ Helping Humans Heal ~ dianaj@shaw.ca 250 597 2102

Swinging Songstress Sue Newman

nuggle up to some sultry swinging ‘n’ crooning with Salt Spring Island’s effervescent songstress Sue Newman February 10 at 2 p.m. at Pat’s House of Jazz in the Osborne Bay Pub, 1534 Joan Ave. in Crofton. Admission $15. Newman will entertain you with songs of love and humour that span early jazz to Motown and show tunes. Newman says she has a special place for classic Jobim faves as well as originals by herself and her father, Ray Newman, that are sweet and rhythmic. Shades of blues, rock and soul lend themselves to her unique style, which has been honed by years on stage with her band, which includesTom Martin on guitar, Ian Van Wyck on bass and Laurent Boucher on drums. Newman, who studied jazz with Jay Clayton and

Sheila Jordan at the Banff Centre, is also a well-known performance art instructor as well as a dancer, producer and director. Since moving to Salt Spring from California 36 years ago, where she toured with her jazz musician parents as part of a child variety act, Newman has taught ballet, tap and jazz dance, music, voice and theatre. She has choreographed or performed in musicals such as Fiddler on the Roof and The Music Man and has performed with Hugh Fraser, Valdy, Randy Bachman, P.J. Perry and Bill Henderson, among others. A performance by Newman will leave you on a real high,” says series publicist Gloria Collins. “She bubbles with such energy and joy in performing that she always leaves you wanting another hit.” The show is part of the Sunday afternoon jazz series presented by the Chemainus Valley Cultural Arts Society and supported by the Osborne Bay Pub. Reservations highly recommended. Tables will be held until 1:30 p.m. Call 250 324-2245.

Amythest Bio Mat Session

he Amethyst Bio-Mat can be used for professional or home use. Leading edge Bio - Technology to support health and well being. It is a Negative Ion and Far Infrared Ray Therapeutic Treatment System. The Bio-Mat is a unique innovation in bio technology containing 17 different layers and more than 30lbs of amethyst crystals which naturally produce and are superconductors of Far Infrared Rays. When the Bio-Mat is turned on pulses of energy radiate through the layers, which penetrates the body up to 6 inches through the skin, to the muscles, blood vessels, nerves, joints and bone. Relieves tension and pressure. Expands blood vessels to carry away toxins, reduce inflammation and brings nutrition to damaged areas. It also has a special function that generates a discharge of negative Ions into the air and transforms positive Ions inside the human body. This process changes the acidic condition of the body to alkaline which is its natural healthy state. Negative Ions are shown to be the master power switch, which activates the body’s cellular system and makes every body function work better. Laying on the Bio-Mat for 1/2-1 hour feels

warm and soothing. It reduces stress and fatigue, eases joint pain and stiffness, improves the immune system, removes toxins and speeds recovery. Relax in a tranquil setting, feel rejuvenated while the Bio-Mat does the work. Amethyst has healing powers to help with physical ailments, emotional issues, and in Energy Healing and Chakra balancing. Amethyst crystal therapies are primarily associated with physical ailments of the nervous system, the curing of nightmares and insomnia, and balancing the crown chakra. Amethyst stones are natural stress relievers with healing properties that rid negative energy and encourage inner strength, wealth, and clarity of the mind. It is also the February birthstone. Relax in a tranquil setting, feel rejuvenated while the Bio-Mat does the work. Book a session with us at Reiki Wellness Debbie 250 743-8122.

INTUITIVE HEALER • Certified Clinical

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Sands Funeral Chapel

Cremation & Reception Centre-Duncan by Arbor Memorial

Janice Winfrey Funeral Director Debbie Shkuratoff, Reiki Wellness Reiki Master-Teacher - Usui-Karuna-KomyoTibetian-Seichim-Holy Fire

tel: 250-746-5212 • fax:250-746-7034 sandsfuneral.com/duncan email:sandsduncan@arbormemorial.com 187 Trunk Road, Duncan, British Columbia V9L 2P1

The Future is Here and it Pays Great Dividends! It was a bit of a process reframing my beliefs about investments, but different things kept niggling at my brain. The money in the bank was staying the same and even shrinking at times. And what was I was investing in? The more I thought about it, the more sense it made to purchase an electric car and solar panels. I would trade those savings in to turn a steady drain on my finances into a monthly payout on my investment. I knew that my next vehicle would be electric but the plan was to drive the trusty old Kia for as long as it lasted, at least a few more years. Two things happened that changed the timing. When the pipeline issue with Alberta disintegrated into a battle, I knew I didnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t want to be dependent on fossil fuel any longer. Then, when I got my quarterly investment statement I realized that, if I was painfully careful, I might be able to retire for about one year.

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I started my project by looking for a car. Already last spring there were far more options than I had dreamt of: hybrids, 4x4â&#x20AC;&#x2122;s, and full electrics. It was a lot of fun test driving the options but in the end I decided to go with full electric. There is much less maintenance, just wipers and brakes. And I really wanted to get away from

those fossil fuels. After searching all over the Island and lower mainland, I found the perfect dealer five minutes down the road at Kolenberg Motors. They had several 2015 Nissan Leafs and more coming in. They kindly let me take one home for a full day of test driving. It made the commute from North Cowichan to Cobble Hill and back with enough juice for two more days before recharging. I was sold: local and affordable. The Cowichan Valley is an excellent place to drive an electric car. There are several chargers downtown and you are covered from Info Center at the Discovery Forest Museum to Kerry Park. So far there is no charge to use them. There are apps for your phone that tell you where to find the closest charger and some people with home chargers even list them for use on these apps. You can buy a level two charger for your home, or you can use the charger that comes with the car and plug it right into a wall socket. The consensus seems to be that it costs less than .90 for a full charge. There is a bit of a learning curve having a full electric as the only vehicle in the home. The 2015 model has a 150 km range and regenerative braking. Meandering on the back roads is an enjoyable continued next page

I am investing in something I can feel, my home and my daughter’s future.

Viridan Energy Co-Operative

Karen Bernard is an educator and writer living in the Cowichan Valley.

way to increase the range. Driving up the Malahat can be a little unsettling the first time, but the bars recover quite nicely on the way back down. To go on a longer trip, I search out chargers and then stop accordingly. We go for lunch while the car fully recharges with a level 2, or find a level 3 and be on our way in 20 minutes. On a camping trip, I save the grocery shopping for the town where I have chosen to charge. More shopping malls and downtowns are making chargers available. Completely emptying the nest-egg took a few months of working up courage but the solar panels cost less than the car and have a performance warranty of 25 years. After doing more research, I was pleased to find that the Cowichan Valley is home to the respected solar company Viridian Energy. They patiently walked me through the process and were in and out in one day. I have a shiny new roof and my September

Open 9am to 9pm!

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hydro bill was $2.65! Though I am still tied to the grid, a net metering system is tens of thousands dollars less than an off-grid system and I don’t have to deal with batteries. It would have been nice in December’s big wind storm to have my own power, but that option is a feature I can add on one day. Because I own a duplex, I didn’t have quite enough roof to see to all of my needs. The net metering allows me to use BC Hydro for power that my system can’t produce but shuts off during outages so that energy doesn’t inadvertently feed back to the broken grid. If I were to do it all over again, I would install the panels early in spring to build up power to see me over the winter. If I could go back in time, I would have added the money to my mortgage when I bought the house and had those savings all along.

1/3 hydro bill in December. Income, not output. Tough decisions, but I wish I had made them years ago. Now

My hydro bill was one-third of last year’s even though I usually charge the car at home. So, no gas bill and a

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Live Edge Seeking Big Leaf Maple Submitted by Donna Shaw

fter rain there is a rainbow, after night there is morning and after a storm there is calm... and a whole heck of a lot of clean up. The recent wind storm bought down trees all over our island and one Island company is turning these fallen giants into art. Live Edge Design create pieces of functional art from fallen trees. Trees are old beings and each one has a unique story, often spanning hundreds of years. Owner and lead designer for Live Edge Design, John Lore uses natures contours and colours as his palette. His bigger then life mission is to teach the world the value of a single tree. The trees we carefully select are either already down or about to come down. Our experienced salvage experts seek out old, large, unique and interesting trees â&#x20AC;&#x201D; most often Big Leaf Maple which is legendary for their fine furniture qualities. We take our time, gently removing each tree. We transport it carefully back to our workshop where our design team collaborates on best uses for the entire tree. Our first job is to extract large, thick slabs of wood, complete with the natural, bark-on edge we are famous for. But, we also

make sure to utilize every inch of the tree for its highest end use. Our trees are not only used to make beautiful, multigenerational art furniture but also musical instruments, carvings and sculptural art while also meeting agriculture and energy needs. We specialise in Big Leaf Western Maple as it grows prolifically here on the Island and is a great salvageable material and at around 120 years old the centre of a maple begins to decay and weaken the tree. Live Edge Design creates dining tables and other furniture to give these trees a second life, a place of honour in the home where we come together to sit as a family, to celebrate birthdays, holidays and special occasions. If you have a large fallen maple (at least 18â&#x20AC;? diameter) that could be salvaged, cleaned up and given a new life please call Live Edge Design, 250 748-0763

John Lore, in the centre of a decayed centre of a maple tree..

Call For Artists Cowichan Valley Fine Arts Show

rtists now is the time to get your creative juices flowing in preparation for the upcoming 49th annual Cowichan Valley Fine Arts Show. Grab your sketchbook, pull out your paints and canvases, ready your cameras… This year’s event will have 160 pieces of 2D and 3D art. This non juried show accepts works from novice, intermediate and professional artists to show and sell. We have some exciting changes. The show will run 6 days longer than in the past and will be followed by a “People’s Choice Show” where the top pieces voted through the People’s Choice ballot will be displayed in the Arbutus Gallery for 6 more days. On the last day of the big show, May 11, there will be an Art Battle in the theatre lobby to help with our celebrations. We will continue with the artist demonstrations through out the show as well as opening the show for school visits.

The 2D category includes but is not limited to oil, acrylic, watercolour, drawing, and mixed media works. The 3D category includes but is not limited to jewelry, pottery, basketry, fibre art, metal, wood, glass leather, and stone. The digital photography category will be broken into manipulated and non-manipulated (cropping permitted). The venue for the Fine Arts show (PORTALS and the Cowichan Suite) has remained the same for the last five years, allowing the show to get better each year with an improvement in lighting and the assurance of the best showing of each piece of art by the excellent hanging crew Interested artists have four months to complete original works for this show. Artists can register inperson or on-line. In-person registration will occur April 4th and 5th at PORTALS in the Island Savings Center (2687 James St., Duncan). On-line registration will start at 10 am April 4th and run until 5 pm on April 13th. Registration forms can be picked up at PORTALS or found on the Cowichan Valley Arts Council website. On-line registration and more information can be found on the website. cowichanvalleyartscouncil.ca.

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here is a forest in Germany which people are talking about. While most of Germany’s forests are in a sorry state, losing their magic, losing nature and lacking older trees, this forest is gaining magic and supporting nature while providing its foresters with a steady income. The forest belongs to the city of Lübeck, a beautiful Hanseatic port north-east of Hamburg, close to Denmark, whose tourist officers have labelled it ‘The Venice of the North’ because of its many canals, just as ours have labelled the Cowichan Valley ‘The New Provence’. Its community forest, some 5,000 hectares in size, is mostly beech and oak, mixed with ash, maple, hornbeam, elm, birch and alder, with some coniferous spruce, pine, larch and Douglas fir.

Image courtesy Stadtwald Lübeck

The Lübeck Community Forest The land has been covered by forest for more than two hundred and fifty years, but in 1994 Lübeck’s chief forester proposed a change in the way it was managed. Instead of the conventional method of logging with heavy machinery followed by replanting he wanted to try a new approach called ‘close to nature’, or ‘near-natural forest

use’, which was developed in cooperation with scientists and nature conservationists. The city approved the change to “use wood and preserve the forest”, the citizens endorsed the change by referendum, and the forest has been managed this way ever since. The city manages its forest with four objectives in mind. First, to be a natural forest for the people of Lübeck to enjoy, where nature can teach the residents of Lübeck and visitors about the natural functions of a forest and how a healthy forest can help sustain life on the planet. Second, to meet the commercial needs of the forest industry through sustainable management, with a focus on felling large trees on a needs basis, with buyers going into the forest to select the trees they want. Third, to contribute to the conservation of nature, enhancing biodiversity through the preservation of natural habitats. And fourth, to be a store of carbon, contributing to efforts to slow the climate crisis. The chief forester, Knut Sturm, says their primary rule is to allow the forest to follow

its own ecological nature. He uses the phrases ‘close to nature’ and ‘near-natural forest use’ to describe their guiding principles. Over the long-term, he seeks a forest management path that will yield the lowest risk and the most productive development. To achieve this, he and his team of thirty district foresters and forest workers harvest mature trees while working to improve the closeness of the forests to nature and to raise the quality of the remaining trees. In practical terms, this means no clearcuts; no use of toxins or fertilizers, ensuring that forest-walkers can breathe pure air; no drainage of wetlands; no surface clearing or slash-burning of brush piles; no work during ecologically sensitive seasons (spring and summer); and no use of large machines that would damage and compact the soil. Large trees are felled individually or in groups of two or three. They are dragged out of the forest by horses, which slalom their way between the trees, having minimal impact on the soil, and brought to assembly areas where they are winched onto trucks and taken to a local sawmill. Soil impact is a big consideration for Knut Sturm and his team. They are inspired by the findings in the book The Hidden Life of Trees: What They Feel, How They Communicate— Discoveries from a Secret World by the German forester Peter Wohlleben, who has worked alongside Suzanne Simard, a professor of forest ecology at UBC. The trees have an underground network of canals and pores that aerate the soil, ensuring

water absorption and the conveyance of nutrients. The roots are connected by fungi, enabling them to exchange information about water and nutrients. When soil is loose, the trees root more deeply, giving them better protection against storms. When the soil is compacted by heavy machinery their roots have to grow closer to the surface, making them more susceptible to blow-down. 471 hectares are left entirely untouched to serve as reference areas for nature’s ways; the goal is that the managed areas should look almost identical to the reference areas. They never plant any trees, but leave that to nature, and the millions of seeds that fall each October. In doing so, they have learnt that trees germinated naturally grow better than sown or planted trees, the same lesson that our local ecoforester Merv Wilkinson learnt in his forest at Wildwood, Cedar, just north of Ladysmith. They protect wildlife trees and dead trees for birds, bats, insects and fungi, and are proud that their forests support otters, the endangered black stork, and 180 pairs of breeding middle-spotted woodpeckers, whose numbers have increased significantly in

recent years. On good beech tree sites, where trees are competing, thinning is done two or three times until the trees reach 40 cm diameter at breast height, after which no further thinning is needed to improve the quality of the beeches. The target diameters for commercial felling are 45 cm for spruce, 50 cm for pine, 75 cm for beech and 80 cm for oak. So what of their timber data? I know this will be of interest to those who want to consider different ways to manage North Cowichan’s Municipal Forest, which is a similar size. Lubeck’s goal is deliberately not to maximize the forest yield; they want to balance social, ecological and economic needs, while growing the forest as a whole. In the timber-managed area of 4,670 hectares, in 1996 the forest held 315 cubic metres of timber per hectare (m3/ha). By 2004 this had increased to 340 m3/ha and by 2018 to 429 m3/ha. In 1994 the annual incremental growth was 8-10 m3/ha; now it is 10-12 m3/ha. Their goal is to reach a total forest inventory of 600 to 800 m3/ha, both as a store of carbon and as the forest recovers its old-growth characteristics.

In 2016 they cut 14,500 m3 at a rate of 3.2 m3/ ha, including 800 m3 of high-quality oak, which sells for around 430 euros per cubic metre (Can $609). They also provided 2,500 cubic metres of timber for firewood and other wood products for the people of Lubeck. On average, the trees felled are 10-20 cm wider than those felled in conventional forests. The older a beech tree, the firmer its wood, and the more it sells for. Their rule of thumb is that wood from deciduous trees should sell for three times the harvesting cost, while coniferous wood should sell for 1.5 times. Of the 14,500 cubic metres felled, 3,500 m3 was left in the forest for soil improvement and as dead wood, and 11,000 m3 were sold: • 3,500 m3 high-quality deciduous: 75% value-added products, 25 % firewood • 1,000 m3 low-quality deciduous: 20% value-added products, 70% building timber, 15% firewood • 6,500 m3 coniferous: 20% value-added products, 65% building timber, 10% pulp

Image courtesy Stadtwald Lübeck

By following their ‘close to nature’ methods their costs have been reduced drastically, and their timber, since it has been certified by the Forest

Stewardship Council, sells for a premium. The Otto Group, which has pledged itself to offer exclusively FSC certified furniture until 2025, has shown a great interest in the Lübeck forest. On average, the sale of timber generates $1.9 million a year. Their employees do not just work at their forestry jobs. Theirs is a municipal forest pursuing multiple objectives, so they are also responsible for the maintenance and care of the nature reserves, and 250 kilometres of hiking, equestrian and cycling trails. The trails are well-used, with more than 120 events including many educational school trips a year, as well as daily enjoyment by Lübeck’s citizens. Germany’s environmental and business communities have Continued on page 58

The Lübeck Community Forest Continued from page 57

sat up and paid attention to what’s happening in Lübeck. They have been supported by large organizations such as Greenpeace, Friends of the Earth and Robin Wood, and have received awards from the European Paper Industry and Germany’s Federal Ministry of Environment. In 2018, Dr. Lutz Fähser (Chief Forester from 1994-2009) and Knut Sturm were awarded the renowned B.A.U.M. Environmental Prize for their role in making Stadtwald Lübeck an internationally recognized role model for near-natural forestuse and sustainable forest management. The B.A.U.M. award is one of the bestknown and most coveted sustainability awards among German companies. Lübeck’s public is happy too. In 2017, two-thirds of respondents to a survey said they preferred the wilder forest look and feel to more orderly conventional forests. Social acceptance by

North Cowichan

Lubeck

Size of harvestable forest (hectares)

5,000

4,670

Size of no-harvest reference forest (hectares)

471

Total timber volume per hectare (cubic metres) Average annual allowable cut (cubic metres)

486

429

20,000

14,500

Actual cut in 2017 (cubic metres)

10,585

14,500

Replanting (seedlings in 2017)

49,000

Average clearcut block size (hectares)

Jobs created (2017)

8.5

Income (2017)

$1,152,000

$1,900,000*

*Average income, 2015-2018. environmental organizations and by the citizens of Lübeck is important, providing an important foundation for successful forestry. Their methods of ecoforestry have recently been adopted by other German cities, including Berlin, Munich, Bonn, Saarbrucken, Wiesbaden, Hannover, Uelzen, Mühlheim an der Ruhr and Göttingen. Our Coastal Douglas fir forests on Vancouver Island are a world away from Germany’s forests of beech

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and oak, but forests follow nature’s rules all over the world. The parallels between Lübeck’s experience and ours in North Cowichan are fascinating, and I hope they receive further exploration. Merv Wilkinson operated his much smaller Wildwood forest on these principles for seventy years. He harvested the annual growth without any clearcutting, and after sixty years his forest had more timber in it that when he started.

www.tinyurl.com/ lubeckforest www.tinyurl.com/ lubeckforest2 www.tinyurl.com/ lubeckforest3 Many thanks to Knut Sturm and Torsten Welle and at the Naturwald Akadamie in Lübeck for their assistance.

To learn more about Lübeck’s experience, find yourself a German speaker and settle down to enjoy these videos, which take you into the forest itself.

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Guy Dauncey is President of the Yellow Point Ecological Society and the author of Journey to the Future: A Better World is Possible. www..journeytothe-

Letter To North Cowichan Dear Mayor, Council, and All Concerned About Our Community Forests, In a recent correspondence, our Mayor raised the question: What is the public perception of a clearcut? It was shared with Where Do We Stand (WDWS) and the ripple effect was immediate—the one question growing into others moving outward through the community. As comments came back, so did insights into the confusion of the December Council meeting and it became clear: To query the public impression of our municipal logging is also to ask why hundreds of people showed up at the extraordinary meeting and afterward walked away scratching their heads. We thought our collective message had been clear. The meeting of the 19th saw an unprecedented turnout and expression of concern by community members about the future of the forests. The concerns stated were diverse, ranging from lack of transparency, forest management practices, a lack of planning, to clarity about a vision and role of our Community Forests: Tzouhalem, Prevost, Sicker, Richards, Maple, Stoney Hill. 1,200 people submitted written comments and signed a petition requesting a pause in all logging of the Six Mountains to allow time for public consultation on the future of our forests with a variety of experts. (The petition has not yet been submitted to Council as it is ongoing)

At the end of the meeting, the request for pause in logging of all Six Mountains was left unaddressed by Council. Why? Hundreds of citizens walked away asking, “What just happened?” No one could say for sure. There was no time to ask. The next day, the tempest hit our valley and pause happened in its own way—or, since this is about our forests—as nature would have its way. The citizens were told we can’t afford to pause—(the numbers are debatable). As if on cue, the extraordinary storm delivered possibly hundreds of thousands of dollars of timber, and many questions: How best to capitalize on this opportunity? What if revenue from the windfall could offset a pause in logging this year? What would the sustainable, “Close To Nature,” “Continuous Cover Forestry” models of the world recommend for salvaging? What about the forest city of Lübeck, Germany—the land of small logging roads, tractors, pulleys, minimal disturbance, and increased productivity? What are the options? Who will decide? Our new forester is already facing the challenge of learning a new forest, creating a new plan, responding to citizens articulating changing priorities—is there a mandate to allow the forestry department to pause to consider the options of how best to salvage? For those who are new to the conversation about our community forests, if you read nothing more about this issue, please read this: When the pause movement requests time for public consultation on alternative logging practices, there is no implied criticism

of how our forests have been managed to date. Advocates for pause have repeatedly expressed gratitude and respect for our foresters who have served, mostly as volunteers, to raise revenue for our community. The pause movement is not about the past; it is about our community awakening to the gift of our Community Forest— the only one like it in North America; it is about changing ecological, economic, and social values. When hundreds of people show up at a council meeting before Christmas out of love for the forests—change is in the air. When 1,200 people request the expansion of the Forestry Advisory Committee to represent a community forest, it is a sign of the changing times. When citizens ask to see a five year Forest Management Plan—including visual images of what our mountains could look like in a relatively short time—it is a sign of an engaged citizenry hungry for involvement in the management of its’ Forests. Over the holidays, some citizens reached out to Councillors to ask why the public request for pause of logging of our Six Mountains had not been addressed. Some Councillors explained: The unprecedented attendance at the Council meeting was so overwhelming, the information so complex, (like other issues on the agenda), the process so new to those Councillors recently elected—it was impossible to digest everything in one sitting. In fact, after the meeting, some Councillors were left asking themselves, What just happened? ‍ ‍We know the feeling. Post Council meeting confusion, to be clear, here is what we are asking for: ‍ We believe there is a need to map out a pathway, a process for exploring the role and future of our forests; a process that is transparent and

inclusive of the community and a variety of experts on the forests. ‍ We urge Council and staff to begin this process before any more plans are made, logging roads built, tenders put out, or contracts signed for 2019, and before logging revenue is factored into the budget for 2019. ‍ Given the overwhelming pubic request for pause of logging of the Six Mountains, we are requesting a timely response by Council, with advance notice of meetings. ‍ We believe the recent watershed referendum is proof of public commitment to pay for higher values. If we do not pause to re-assess how we manage our forests, the tax dollars we are about to pour into our water may be flushed away. ‍ We must pause to weigh the balance of short-term profit from current logging practices with possible long-term repercussions for our children and all who follow. ‍ WhereDoWeStand.ca will continue to compile questions and comments submitted by citizens to be forwarded to Council. The petition will continue until pause is granted. This letter is the first of a series called Voices Of The Valley; it began when our Mayor generously opened the floor to allow all people at the last Council meeting in 2018 to speak. Public engagement has just begun.

Feliz Ano Nuevo! New Year, New Inspiration! Jennie Garcia, passion for beautiful spaces, mama bear, artist, lover, forever student of life

ver since I was a little girl I have loved decorating and designing. Instead of watching cartoons I would watch Martha Stewart, Debbie Travis, Julia Child and Bob Ross. I really appreciated how they took so much care and pride in creating something beautiful. The feeling of peace and joy instantly filled me. It would inspire me to reconfigure my bedroom

furniture,decorate the living room,or create art for my walls. Now as a mama bear of five precious beings, my passion has deepened, with painting and decorating their little bedrooms and play areas. Coming up with creative solutions to store and access all that comes with life. Or designing a serene and tranquil bedroom for the adults in the house. My main goal has been to make life easier and more harmonious. When your home is organized,you’re happier and so is your sweet family. I am a believer that our homes however big or small are our havens. Our safe place to celebrate, nourish, nurture and rest. If there is a space in your home that is blocking energy or overwhelming you. It is time to address it! Give yourself the gift of ease and functionality. It may be an emotional process for you. Sometimes our self worth is in question. We can get so used to giving, we don’t always know how to put ourselves first. I encourage you to make yourself a priority. Small changes allow for new beginnings. Freeing up room to start that new hobby,

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5 WAYS TO START CREATING YOUR BEAUTIFUL HOME 1. Choose a space in your home. 2. Choose your inspiration,look up home design on pinterest,in magazines (I like Canadian issues) I find it nice for sourcing and to access the things that you admire as they tend to feature more Canadian artist and retailers. 3. De clutter the space with the DONATE, RECYCLE, GARBAGE, and KEEP system. Get four bins and label accordingly. It will easier for you to get an idea of how that room will flow without all the optical and physical distraction. Whatever you keep, give it a HOME 4. Choose a focal piece that you LOVE. I really emphasize LOVING IT, It will be the difference in how you enjoy your home. It will be your inspiration point to all your colours or other complimentary accessories. Make an investment by purchasing a key piece. ie sofa, dining room table or that beautiful armoire you’ve had your eye on forever. or Re purpose something you already have. 5. Have fun! This is a creative process, it doesn’t have to happen overnight. prepare healthy meals, or just find your keys easily. We all experience setbacks at times. We can pick ourselves up and get back on track. You are forever growing and changing. If you’ve been dreaming of

having that art space, that gorgeous kitchen, clean closets and cozy living room. Start now! Be inspired. Let your home be an expression of the unique and wonderful you.

Be Ahead of The Game - Getting Your House Ready for Sale

hen you have reached the decision that its time to sell, there is already so much you will have to worry about. Well in advance of the “must sell date”, here are some thing you can do: 1. Improve curb appeal and how you house will show in photos on your listing. 2. Buy used and help your wallet by shopping early for resale or sale fixtures and hardware in an updated style. 3. Save money on doing it yourself. 4.Take the time needed to declutter and resell your unwanted items and keep them out of landfills. Number 4 is the most important and often most avoided until too late. Getting a dumpster a week before the possession date, to clear the junk out of the property is not the best option. Start on this in early spring before you sell. Outside: You can recycle or resell the old lumber, patio bricks, unused fire wood, dented eaves troughs, old deck wood or fence boards or metal parts. Resale ads on Used Cowichan or Nanaimo kijiji or VarageSale (Cowichan Valley) will not only make you some cash, it will also remove these items from your yard.

Inside: Pare down your furniture, personal wall art, photos and decor and resell or store, more is less in your “show home”. Repaint old wood furniture. Have you ever walked into a shabby chique home with painted furniture and said “wow that’s nice”? Get rid of all the old kids toys and clothes they have grown out of, put ads in the local resale locations or donate to resale shops, “free for pick up” gets them flying out the door. For large or many items some charities will pick up. Number 3. Once you have decluttered you will be able to see your home better for its “bones”. Consider repainting. Choose monochromatic light colours that have appeal to the general public. Look at some show home pictures for wall colour. That’s the look you want. Its amazing how few people can’t see past red walls or green bathrooms or dark painted living rooms and many colours that chop up the look of the home. Pale warm grey are in. Benjamin Moore (Mill Bay) Grey Owl , Balboa Mist, Metropolitan or Decorator’s White Aura Paint is $87.00 per can, its worth it. They are low VOC , environmentally friendly, require fewer coats than cheaper paint; less time spent painting. 2 cans per average

room will get you thousands more for your home. Leave your baseboard trim white or wood, but give it a fresh coat or good cleaning. Number 2. Light fixtures and new switch covers can be relatively inexpensive and create a focus and an updated look. Repaint your brass chandelier a lighter or darker shade than your walls, or head to the ReStore Westshore or Nanaimo for updated used light fixtures or shop at seasonal sales. Ask your plumber for previously used modern plumbing fixtures or look on the “used building supply sites’ or resale stores for faucets. Shop for used interior door hardware and cabinet knobs if yours are over 20 years old. Choose carefully for a modern look similar to the show home pictures. Number 1. Give the bushes and trees a good trim, edge the front entry path or reseed/sod grass.

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Removing the ivy that looks like its taking over and hack down overgrowth and pressure washing your walks and driveway to make the first impression the one that will appear clean and fresh. Consider changing to a modern front door and painting the garage door light and front doors a colour that will flow to your interior. New entry door hardware will totally change the look of your entry. Be careful with resale door hardware since they may have missing parts and compromise security. The look you want to appeal to buyers is modern, clean. uncluttered light and airy. If your budget allows, get a good deal on some new appliances, they will be a selling feature and bargaining tool and something you can enjoy now or take with you when you move. If you are not sure where to start? Give Vida a call (250)743-0043, or contact Vida on Facebook: real.estate.vida.glaser

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Using your Woodstove Efficiently and Effectively

hy Should I Burn Smart? Smoke from woodstoves is a significant source of particulate air pollution in Cowichan Valley during winter, accounting for a quarter of particulate matter air pollution. Exposure to these particulates increases the risk of cardiovascular and respiratory illnesses, particularly in vulnerable populations like children and the elderly. Burning wood improperly releases similar compounds to that of tobacco smoke and occurs right where we live, work and play. Using smart burning techniques in your woodstove: 1. Improves air quality indoors and throughout your community 2. Produces less creosote in chimneys, thereby reducing fire hazards and chimney maintenance 3. Is more efficient, meaning you can heat your home with less wood, saving time and money! Six Tips for Smarter Burning 1. Season and cover all firewood. Split and store wood in a covered space for at least six months. Seasoned wood

burns hotter, thereby reducing fuel consumption and smoke output. 2. Choose the correct firewood. Hardwoods, like Fir, provide more heat than softwoods, but softer wood, like Alder, can be good firestarter. Never burn garbage or treated wood which emits toxic air pollutants. 3. Keep vents open after startup. Woodstove burning is cleanest when draft control is fully open and flames are intense, ensuring the fire is burning hot. 4. Start the fire correctly. Use clean newspaper or dry kindling to start the fire. Don’t use gasoline or kerosene. Many modern woodstoves are also designed to burn from the top down, making building the fire easier. 5. Clean out ashes regularly. Dispose of ashes to reduce the clogging of air intake vents and

improve woodstove efficiency. (Ash can be added to your home compost if you have one!) 6. Don’t smolder fires overnight. The old way of closing down the air supply so coals smolder overnight is a source of pollution and doesn’t actually improve heating. How Do I Know If I’m Burning as Efficiently as Possible? A small amount of smoke coming out of your chimney is a good sign. Smoke is not “exhaust”. It contains high energy gases that were not burned, meaning your woodstove is not using all the potential energy to heat your home. Dense, dark smoke is a sign the combustion is not optimal, usually because the fire in the woodstove is not intense enough. When woodstoves burn optimally, only a bit of steam and light, odour-free smoke escapes from the chimney. During weather inversions and poor atmospheric dispersion conditions, it’s best to keep wood burning to a minimum. Weather inversions form when a dense layer of cold air is trapped under a layer of warm air and the warm air acts like a lid trapping pollutants near the valley floor. An air quality

map of the Cowichan region is available at cvrd.bc.ca/Air. If you’d like to know more about how to heat your home efficiently using a woodstove, detailed resources for woodstove operation and cleaner burning tips can be found online. Staff members at woodstove retailers as well as building and chimney inspectors are extremely knowledgeable if you’d like to talk to someone in person. Woodstove Replacement Program If you live in the Cowichan region, you may be eligible for a rebate when you replace your old woodstove with a new EPA-certified heating appliance. Rebates range from $350 to $950 depending on the type of heating appliance you select to replace your old woodstove. Visit cvrd.bc.ca/Woodstove for more information about the Woodstove Replacement Program or contact Engineering Services at 250.746.2530 or es@cvrd.bc.ca. Chloe Boyle is an employee with CVRD in the Recycling and Waste Management division, and a strong advocate for waste reduction

Why We Should Read

Enlivening the Chakra of the Heart Florins Lowndes

Whereas meditation is the foundation of any spiritual path of development, the seer and teacher Rudolf Steiner advised that specific “accompanying,” or “fundamental,” spiritual exercises should always be practiced in conjunction with it in order to protect the individual from dangers posed to normal consciousness by meditation practice. These exercises offer such protection by helping to develop inner certainty and strength. This is achieved, for example, through the first exercise by concentrating and intensifying the powers of thinking, through the second by developing control of one’s volition, through the third by mastering the outer expressions of the feeling life, and so on. Second etheric stream Florin Lowndes describes the fundamental exercises in thorough detail, giving suggestions as to how they can be practiced.

Heart Thinking: Inspired Knowledge Rudolph Steiner

The concepts of ‘thinking with the heart’ or ‘emotional intelligence’ are often used today, usually in contrast to intellectual thought. When Rudolf Steiner used the phrase ‘heart thinking’, however, he meant it in a very specific sense. Drawn primarily from his lectures, the compiled texts in this anthology illuminate his perspective - that heart thinking

NEW

Unsettling the Settler Within: Indian Residential Schools, Truth Telling and Reconciliation in Canada by Paulette Regan

Anthroposophical Reading is intimately related to the spiritual faculty of Inspiration. The heart, he says, can become a new organ of thinking through the practice of exercises that work towards the transformation of feeling, shedding its personal and subjective character. Rudolf Steiner’s texts are collected together by Martina Maria Sam, who contributes a lucid introduction and notes. A small sampling of the extraordinary selection of books at The Freya-Sophia Waldorf and Steiner Book Store in the Sol Centre open 10 - 4 Monday through Saturday. Nicolette can be found lovingly and enthusiastically tending this wonderful gem of a store every Wednesday 10 - 4 p.m. To be notified of Steiner-inspired events and study groups in the valley contact nicolette111@ icloud.com.

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his book describes Canada’s moral issue of the 21st century. Paulette Regan narrates what she learned from what she’s been told and/or not told of historical fact. Regan believes it is critical how one learns of injustices in history. The dichotomy between truth, and historical half-truth or untruth is the experience of many non-Indigenous Canadians. Gaining vulnerability and openness while learning the truth, one grows to accept the inherent responsibility, transform complacency of the status quo into accountability and action. In 2019, sadly, the timeless teachings the author shares still need to be explained. Canadians’ acceptance of personal responsibility to authentically re-examine history will lead us through this ethical issue to just reconciliation. As Nicholas XEMŦOLTW̱ Claxton and John Price ask: For non-Indigenous peoples in this province [and country], is it not time to seriously reflect on what is happening here?[1] Many of us think we are historically removed from what occurred in the past. But in truth, the Settler majority who live today in the present are beneficiaries of the governmental and occupier policies that have lasting and damaging impact on Aboriginal lands, laws, justice and heritage. With what we now know, true reconciliation must look much different from past efforts.

In and outside Canada, people identify the result of colonialization as genocide. This is entering popular awareness. Listen to the song from Halifax indie rockers Wintersleep singing “Beneficiary”. Our government and education system have told a story that camouflages the facts of history and confirms myths of “peacemaker” and “benevolent colonialism”. Benevolent imperialism is conquest. Benevolent conquest is an oxymoron intent on pacifying fears and supporting colonial myths, reveling in a “celebratory history”. There is a great deal for us Settlers to learn from this collection of teachings, for the future of children, land, climate and justice. They are better read than explained in these few words. If you read only one scholarly book in 2019, this is it! The Warmland Book and Film Collective is called to action to explore, celebrate and learn from Indigenous authors and film meeting the 2nd Wednesday/each month. VIRL 5:00 - 8:00 p.m. Next meeting is on February 13th and the next book is by Tracey Lindberg, Birdie.

[1] Nicholas XEMŦOLTW Claxton and John Price. “By What Right? The confrontation at Wedzin Kwah”. January 9, 2019. Times Colonist.

Hurray. Spring is on the Way.

t is February and the temperature is starting to warm up a little and the days are getting a little longer. If you are anything like me you are itching to get working in the yard and with your bees. Your bees are also becoming active as they get ready for spring. About the middle of January the queen begins to lay eggs to start to replace the worker bees as they are at the end of their life. On warm days you will see bees in front of the hive as they come out to defecate. If you don’t see any bees you can check to see if they made it through the winter by rapping on the side of the hive and listening for them to respond with a dull roar. If you don’t hear anything you may want to check to see if they have made it through the winter. Be sure to wait until it is above 10 degrees and don’t leave the hive open too long. If you open the hive it is also a good time to check on their food supply. Unfortunately I have heard about several people who have lost their bees over the winter. The main reason for winter hive loss is varroa mites. I cannot reiterate enough that we need to do a better job of checking and treating our hives throughout the year. I have listened to many an experienced beekeeper present on this topic, but unfortunately hive loss to

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mites seems to be constant year after year. Over the winter holidays I was in Dresden, Germany visiting my son and his family. While there I met with a couple of beekeepers. My discussions with them were very interesting and someday I hope to do a presentation at a Cowichan Beekeepers meeting about what I learned. In Germany every beekeeper gets one free treatment of Apistat per hive which is administered as soon as the honey is off. If oxalic acid is used it can only be administered in liquid form and not vaporized. Oxalic acid cannot be administered after December 31st until the following summer. Both beekeepers agreed on one thing, you cannot check the mite count often enough. In the summer months both beekeepers check their hives weekly for mites. The main method is covering the bottom screen and checking for mites the following day, but they also do the sugar shake test. I have heard experienced beekeepers say that if you get too high a mite count by the end of summer that even treatment will not save your bees. It was interesting to hear the German beekeepers say the same thing. I would encourage everyone to start checking for mites as soon as your bees are flying this spring.

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250-732-2937 If you are interested in getting bees I would encourage you to come to our meetings. It is expensive to get into bees and easy to lose them. There is a lot to learn and even experienced beekeepers lose some of their bees. The Cowichan Beekeepers are moving to the Island Savings Centre in February. We will be holding our meetings in the Somenos room on the second floor. There is an elevator for those who have trouble with stairs. Our meetings start at 6:30 PM with an informal

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1- 855-622-5932 question and answer session with an experienced beekeeper where you can ask anything pertaining to beekeeping. The main meeting starts at 7 PM. We start with a guest speaker and end the meeting with club business. Our next meeting is on February 20. I look forward to seeing you there.

John Magdanz President of the Cowichan Beekeepers www.cowichanbeekeepers.ca

Eyes See You - Screech!

he Western Screech-Owl is a non-migratory species that occurs along the North Pacific Coast, from southern Alaska to central Mexico. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s a small owl (19 to 25.5 cm), with tufted ears, yellow eyes and streaked markings. All populations are now believed to be in decline primarily due to loss of habitat, but also from predation by the recently arrived Barred Owls. February to April is the Screech-Owlsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; breeding season so while out walking listen-up for a series of short whistled hoots more closely spaced at the end - like a ball bouncing more rapidly over

time (hear hoots on-line at www.allaboutbirds.org). The Coastal Western ScreechOwls use a variety of habitats for roosting, but nesting generally occurs in cavities created by other birds like Pileated Woodpeckers and Northern Flickers. Loss of the dead trees and snags found in older forests for nesting, has diminished Western ScreechOwl populations, and in the past 10 years they have declined by over 90% in the Greater Victoria area. Tanya Tripp has been researching Western Screech-Owl populations in conjunction with Madrone Environmental Consulting and Habitat Acquisition Trust (HAT). To hear more about these elusive inhabitants of our local Coastal Douglas Fir forests, join the Naturalists on February 3 at 9:30am in the Fish Health Building, 1080 Wharncliffe Road. Bring a toonie and a mug for coffee.

Family Time At Mount Washington

to book. Half Price Family Day is Monday February 18th - all Alpine and Nordic tickets are half price!

If skiiing and boarding are not your thing there is Give it a Shot! Try Biathalon For A Day February 17th where anyone nine years or older has the opportunity to try the marksmanship skills required for winter biathalon. Again places are limited so be sure register in advance.

ust two hours north of the Cowichan Valley, Mount Washington Resort is a great place to visit for a family outing. Here you can enjoy downhill and cross country skiing, snowboarding, tubing, winter hiking and snow shoeing. Winter sports work the core muscle groups of your body, and helps you to improve your balance, posture and increase overall strength â&#x20AC;&#x201C; they are the perfect way to exercise during the winter. Getaway time on the mountain can be excellent for bonding with family and friends. This February Mount Washington Resort has some great offers to inspire family fun! Never Ever Days, a Ski Canada national incentive offers the ultimate beginnersâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; package for skiers and snowboarders. Taking on February 9th it includes equipment rental, lift ticket and a lesson for $25 availability is limited, be sure

Fat Bike Fondue takes place on Fridays in February. What better way to work up an appetite than putting in a few clicks on a fat bike? Imagine yourself night riding through the snow in a picturesque setting surrounding the Nordic Centre at Mount Washington. At the end of your ride, you will be escorted back to the Raven Lodge where you will be met with a legendary 3-course fondue dinner. Be sure to prepare for your alpine adventure in good time, dress properly in layers. Use correctly fitting equipment. Always wear a helmet amd allow extra time. www.mountwashington.ca Submitted by Richard Badman

The Mandorlas enjoying family time at Mount Washington.

At Ecojustice, our expertise is environmental law. Where possible we work with governments on law reform to enact better environmental legislation (as we are doing currently with the provincial government on British Columbia’s first endangered species act) and when governments fail to adhere to the law, we sue them in the courts. It is a straightforward and highly effective strategy to protect our environment, but is complex and daunting in its execution. To use the analogy, Ecojustice is to David what wellfunded and heavily lawyered governments are to Goliath.

THE LEGAL FIGHT TO SAVE THE SOUTHERN RESIDENT ORCAS

or over a decade, Ecojustice (formerly Sierra Legal Defense Fund), along with a number of environmental partners, has been working to help preserve the Southern Resident killer whales. Considered iconic worldwide, these exceptional creatures both share a lot with humans (they breath air, give birth and nurse their young which may stay with parents through their lifetime) as well as have traits particular to their marine environment (tight-knit matrilineal families use their highly-developed sense of hearing and their high pitched sounds and clicks to communicate and coordinate their activities.) Threats to this unique pods’ viability are many and varied, and they have taken their toll. The number of individuals has been decreasing, although the recent birth of new calf in the pod represents cause for renewed optimism.

Among our more than 60 active cases in areas such as opposition to pipelines and other carbon intensive energy projects, ridding toxins such as bee-killing neonicotinoids and cancer-causing glyphosate from our ecosystem, and protecting vulnerable species such as salmon and caribou, the fight to save the orcas has gained considerable momentum over the past several years due to the plight of the Southern Resident population. Everyone is aware of their fragile status, yet measures to turn the tide back in their favour have been slow in coming, inadequate in scope, and wholly absent regarding many of the threats.

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Take prey availability for example. These whales have an almost-exclusive preference for Chinook salmon, a species itself in poor condition and long-term abundance decline. Besides a few sport-fishing closures (enacted largely without stakeholder consultations with any interested groups), the government has done little to protect their prey, all while international media highlights our local orcas’ malnutrition, starvation and poisoning from the increase of toxins in coastal waters. Ecojustice has sued and won against the Department of Fisheries and Oceans’ to force recovery planning and to restrict the practice of allowing the aquaculture industry to introduce Atlantic salmon into open-net pens that are pre-infected with a virus proven to be severely detrimental to wild salmon health. But our recent major victory tackled head-on the key threats to orcas by fighting the heavy shipping traffic, acoustic disturbances and risk of increased pollution in our coastal waters posed by a sevenfold increase in tanker traffic shipping oil from the proposed, extremely controversial Trans Mountain pipeline project. Ecojustice fought and won against the federal government’s approval of the Trans Mountain pipeline project, and the National Energy Board’s exclusion of marine shipping impacts, despite the NEB’s own admission that the project would significantly impact the orca’s chance at survival. The proposed Roberts Bank Terminal 2 (T2) project in Delta, BC (in Delta?) would expand an existing container ship facility, adding a second container terminal in deep water directly within critical habitat for Southern Resident killer whales, further jeopardizing their already-endangered status. Ecojustice has intervened in this project’s Canadian Environmental Assessment

Devon Page, Executive Director, Ecojustice

Act review panel process since 2015. Our chief concern is the Port’s failure to use modern science-based methodology in determining shipping impacts on the orcas. In 2018, Ecojustice petitioned the federal ministers of fisheries and minister of environment to recommend an emergency protection order for the whales, and identified concrete actions government could and should take immediately. Under pressure from Ecojustice and its clients, the ministers officially announced that the whales faced ‘an imminent threat to their survival and recovery.’ This triggered a legal responsibility for the ministers to recommend an ‘emergency protection order’ to the federal cabinet under Canada’s Species at Risk Act (SARA). Rather than agreeing with the ministers’ recommendation, however, cabinet chose instead to promise some $60 million in programs in support of the Orcas, the details of which are contained in the federal budget due in April this year. Needless to say, Ecojustice will evaluate these measures closely, and is prepared to continue to press and litigate if necessary to have truly effective and comprehensive legal protections in place to save one of Canada’s most charismatic marine species.

Devon Page is the Executive Director of Ecojustice, Canada’s largest environmental law charity

Orcas periodically check out Cowichan Bay, one of the sources of their favourite food, chinook salmon. Photo credit: Brian Clark

WHY DO ENDANGERED ORCAS NEED A CLEAN COWICHAN ESTUARY? The tie that binds the Cowichan Estuary and Endangered Orcas: Cowichan Chinook

outhern resident orcas that feed on chinook salmon to survive are increasingly spotted with “peanut-head” syndrome, indicating severe starvation. Senior levels of government on both sides of the border are paying attention to threats such as plunging numbers of chinook salmon, pollution, noise and human disturbance. In Canada, the federal government allocated $228.9 million in 2018 for a five-year Whales Initiative to address the main problem for the southern resident orcas: lack of chinook salmon. Washington State announced a $1.1 billion plan to help orcas. In BC, Premier John Horgan, on January 12, 2019, noted the BC public’s “passion for salmon,” and called for unity concerning the failing wild salmon stocks. Yet in the Cowichan Valley, that message doesn’t seem to have been heard. The CVRD is considering rezoning on WestCan Terminal, a causeway in Cowichan Estuary, an important nursery to millions of young salmon. The rezoning will mean that a metal fabrication industry in the middle of the estuary

can be legalized. Sea levels are rising in the estuary and flooding storm drains and moving potentially toxic materials into eelgrass nursery habitat and the shellfish beds. Yet where are the environmental impact assessments? It’s simple: salmon require a clean habitat. The impacts of historic and current industrial, residential and municipal activities have altered the flow of water and degraded habitats. The eelgrass beds are gone on the northern two-thirds of the Estuary, leaving no protection for juvenile salmon there! Pollution carried by chinook salmon could be concentrated in the whales at the top of the food chain. This is a critical juncture for the Cowichan Estuary. Unique among estuaries, the Cowichan is so important that it has its own Order in Council (OIC) 1652 requiring the Minister of Environment to make official decisions and a Cowichan Estuary Environmental Management Plan (CEEMP) established in 1987. Controversy had arisen over the detrimental impacts of log storage, sawmilling and lumber shipping were having on the estuary. As a result of the OIC and management plan, the log boom area was reduced by 60 per cent in the 1980’s. Since that time volunteers and government have worked hard to acquire land, prevent a pulp mill from being established, restore the estuary, convert a log sort area to a

kayak launch park, participate in numerous habitat improvements including backchannel and eelgrass restoration, barge and vessel removals and breaching of the causeway and dikes. Cowichan chinook are not only locally important, they are internationally recognized as an indicator population under the Pacific Salmon Commission and they were recently considered for listing as a threatened population by the Committee on the Status of Endangered Wildlife in Canada (COSEWIC) for which DFO has produced a detailed report. Additional worries for chinook include ocean conditions, poor river migration with warm water and low flows. No single industrial project or human intrusion is causing the crisis but added together there is a cumulative impact of habitat loss and pollution. In the last 10 years, Cowichan chinook have rebounded from lows of 2009 and can now better contribute toward orca health and restoration. Climate change is already raising sea levels in Cowichan Estuary. The Terminal where the metal industry is situated is already flooding during storm surges and king tides. This runoff could be toxic. In April 2018, sea-level rise was noted as a future concern for the site at the Cowichan Estuary meeting. Strangely, however, no information is currently available on any adaptation measures such as diking, filling to raise the surface, abandonment or restoration, nor has the Minister of Environment made any plans or turned down the rezoning so that this potential toxic future

could be avoided. Is Cowichan Estuary polluted? Crab fishing was closed from August 1989 to January 1996 due to dioxin contamination attributed to the use of anti-sap stains containing pentachlorophenols that were applied to lumber at the sawmill and at WestCan Terminal. Use of the chemical was apparently stopped and levels in crabs dropped significantly. But what is buried in the sediments of the estuary and what is happening now? The sawmill is still in place, and it doesn’t ship lumber from the Terminal very often, but a metal fabricating industry on the Terminal has been burgeoning without proper permits or zoning. Should they be rewarded? Why no independent environmental impact assessment? Federal, provincial and local levels of government are refusing to investigate pollution in any depth beyond water sampling of several years ago with volunteers and the assistance of Vancouver Island Health Authority. Organized by the Cowichan Watershed Board, they had developed a Target for being able to eat shellfish in Cowichan Estuary by 2020. Cowichan Tribes did find cadmium in shellfish during a survey they conducted in 2009-2010. This is becoming troublesome as citizens have gathered at CVRD meetings asking for environmental information. The area narrowly voted down a motion put forward and supported by four directors to let their Environmental Services Department review Continued on page 70 Fresh, Local and All-Natural Food created from the Heart

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Why do Endangered ORCAS Need a clean Cowichan Estuary? Continued from page 69

the rezoning in depth (or conduct a proper independent environmental assessment). One major issue that the CVRD has not yet addressed is liability. Yes, the taxpayers in the CVRD may be interested to know that the Minister of Environment is the actual legal authority in the estuary through the Cowichan Estuary Environmental Management Plan. With taking on the authority through rezoning, would the CVRD become liable for any environmental or health risks that arise in the future? Is the CVRD ready to clean up toxic waste from industry in the Cowichan Estuary? Do they want to have the province offload liability for industrial pollution particularly as the public, First Nations and others gain the ability to sue over lack of due diligence or for damages due to food contamination, impacts on human health and impacts on chinook and orcas? What kind of pollutants are coming from that industry now? The operation desirous of rezoning in Cowichan Estuary fabricates industrial size wharves and docks. Metal fabrication according to the US Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), can involve hazardous pigments as cadmium, chromium and lead; metal oxides, slags and silicates, plus acid or caustic materials that can be released into the air or deposited into the water column and into the marine sediments. The business owner, however, is not the issue. By all accounts he willingly contracts to work on conservation projects. Rather it is the question of the suitability of this industry in an estuary where food is being produced for humans and whales. And once rezoned, the industry could increase, the opposite of decreasing industry in the estuary as the plan intended. How does the public benefit from industry in the Estuary? In the past, the public could justify environmental damage

by creating jobs. That is harder to justify now that orcas are reaching extinction levels due to starvation and pollution, particularly if the jobs can be relocated locally to more suitable land appropriately zoned for industry. The Terminal was originally intended to be a deep sea port for shipping. The docks are no longer maintained and appear largely unserviceable. For six industrial leases, the public receives $1 per year per lease. Why is the CVRD apparently willing to risk our environment for the sake of an industry that is non-conforming to the existing zoning and to the Management Plan? Why go to such lengths to continue leases that do not contribute significantly to the public purse through the leases? Why would the CVRD accept the liability of an industrial site (potentially toxic) from the province? Why not restore nature and zone for conservation as the original OIC, Management Plan and CNR transfer of estuary lands intended? Thus Cowichan Valley citizens can contribute to the Orcas and chinook by protecting Cowichan Estuary. Make your voices heard, call, write or email the Minister (Honourable George Heyman, Minister of Environment, PO Box 9428, Stn Prov Govt, Victoria, BC V8W 9V1, phone 250-387-1187, or email: ENV.minister@gov.bc.ca Contact Sonia Furstenau, MLA, Parliament Buildings, Victoria, BC V8V 1X4, phone 250-387-8347, or email: Sonia.furstenau.MLA@leg.bc.ca Attend CVRD Public Meetings on this issue in the coming weeks and months. If you want to learn more about orcas, check out the Cowichan Watershed Board Speaker Night: Thursday, February 28. Public Lecture with environmental lawyer Devon Page, EcoJustice on orca and endangered species law, Co-hosted by Cowichan Valley Naturalists Society at Vancouver Island University (VIU), Cowichan Lecture Hall.

Eco Friendly Tips for a Greener Home When it comes to ecologically friendly homes and taking action to lower our carbon footprint, we are fortunate to live in a community that has an appetite for learning and improving. With Spring (cleaning) fast approaching, February is a great time to take inventory of your home to assess where you can make changes that can not only save you money, but also help give you peace of mind knowing you are doing what you can to help our planet.

water heaters account for up to 13% of the energy used in the average Canadian home. When the life of well used appliances comes to an end, consider replacing with EnerGuide Appliances that have the Energy StarÂŽ sticker. The sticker means that a product, new home, or building is certified as energy efficient. When buying, consider not only the purchase price, but the cost of energy to operate a product over itsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; lifetime.

Greening your home can be fun and easy, with small changes adding up over time to create a large impact. Here are a few ideas to help you get the ball rolling:

Ecological landscaping: As water security becomes an increasingly serious issue, many homeowners are opting for creative stone gardens, artificial and ornamental grasses, and plants that are resistant to drought. Not only are these options low maintenance, they are easier on the wallet and could lead to a lower utility bill. Thankfully, we have some fantastic horticulturalists and nurseries in the Cowichan Valley, who are happy to share their expertise.

Start small: Consider the chemicals you come across daily in your kitchen, bathrooms, and laundry. Not only can toxic chemicals end up in our water, but the packaging itself is unsightly and often ends up at a landfill. Mitigate your impact on our water sources by switching to chemical free, zero waste products, and using recycled glass jars instead. If you commit to reducing your chemical use and packaging in even one of these rooms, you will make a positive difference. Think appliances: Household appliances like refrigerators, freezers, dishwashers and

Caitlin McKenna is a licensed real estate agent with Sutton Group West Coast Realty in Duncan.

Lucky Dog Dog Love Debbie Wood is a certified Small Animal Naturopath and can be reached at 250-597-7DOG.

ome of us acquire a dog because we love dogs. Some of us have a dog happen into our lives as a pleasant surprise. Some of us have one foisted on us and we mold our lives around their needs. And we fall in love with them. Some start as puppies, so sweet, especially when they sleep. Teen dogs are crazy; pushing the limits of their bodies and the limits of our patience. Then as the years pass there is the gentle, gradual, mellowing of getting to know each other. Our love for each other matures and deepens.

Similar to the relationships we have with people there are stages of the love we have for our dogs. The flush of first love, and then that crazy time soon after when faults are discovered and accepted, or fought over. Then, if we’re compassionate, a loving companionship flourishes. Some of us love our dogs because loving humans has proven to be painful, vulnerable, or complicated. Dogs accept us. They see us at our most vulnerable and never threaten to leave us. They are patient when we don’t understand them. They communicate to us over and over until we get it. Mutual respect and attempting to understand; that is love. Dogs are our mirrors and show us our foibles. If we’re sensitive, we will be grateful for the direction this takes us. But all our dogs want to be is with us. They want to be our constant companions. Even if we sleep with our dogs, they are thrilled to see us in the morning. Dogs are willing to try anything with us. And if it isn’t enjoyable to them, well, it seems to make us happy so they’ll do it anyway. That is love. And each of us enters this relationship knowing, as Earnest Hemingway pointed out, it will not end well. Yet most of us do it again and again. In the end we are grateful for the dogs we were allowed to love and that they always loved us back. Love hard.

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Why Reflexology? Why Reflexology? 1) To feel better! Reflexology brings your body back into homeostasis and maximises your ability to heal physically, emotionally and mentally. 2) To have more energy. Do you find that you are tired and sluggish? Reflexology can help to boost your energy levels and your motivation. 3) To keep your body running its best. Reflexology can offer relaxation and a level of pampering. It’s been proven to be extremely effective in helping to remove toxins from the body. 4) Remembering to take time out for ourselves with a little kindness and self-care, is not a selfish thing. Self-care is an act of self-love, taking care of yourself so that you can be your best. Reflexology promotes wellness throughout the entire body as it balances the nervous system by stimulating the nerve endings of the feet, which connect with the spinal nerves and their corresponding organs. It works with the circulatory system, breaking up congestion and deposits in the feet, which in turn help detoxify the body. Used to facilitate natural healing, ease pain, reduce stress all without any adverse side effects, it is a non-invasive, alterna72

tive therapy with no need to disrobe and the feet are easily accessible. The major factor that sets reflexology apart from other therapies is that it’s an all-encompassing treatment. All organs, glands and the skeletal system can be stimulated through the feet. (Very efficient!) By using a firm touch, meridians and reflex points are worked on throughout the whole session to stimulate circulation, increase fresh blood-flow and become an effective way to de-stress by placing your body into parasympathetic mode. Where the body goes into “rest and relaxation” mode – this is where your body does its best healing! It is not just physical it can work on an emotional level also, calming the spirit and promoting relaxation, bringing energy of the body back into balance by creating a deep sense of peace, calm and well-being. Clients undergo Reflexology to relieve stress, insomnia, headaches, tension, fatigue, and sinusitis. Our feet have a very important impact on our health. Whether you are looking to improve your sleep, balance your hormones or improve your over all well-being, Reflexology can help! Gift certificates are always available also so why not give it a try – you have nothing to lose and everything to gain! Visit www.naturalheelingreflexology.com or call 250-732-7988

Helga Feichtinger is a Registered, Certified Reflexologist and Indian Head Massage Practitioner 250-732-7988

Opening To Love- The Heart Chakra & Love Stones

he heart chakra, known as “Anahata” in Sanskrit, is the 4th chakra located in the center of the chest, close to the heart. This chakra is associated with unconditional love, compassion, joy and affection. It is related to the element of air, which is linked to breath and movement, as well as the idea of spaciousness and connection with all things. When anahata is open and flowing, we are loving, kind and empathetic to ourselves and others; giving and receiving in balance and knowing when we need to take time to recharge ourselves. Here are some suggestions to help keep our heart chakra balanced and activated: Engage with the element of air; feel the breeze of the wind brush against your skin Surround yourself with the color green or pink Practice chest opening yoga poses Do at least one kind thing each day Indulge in touch: get a massage, give someone a hug, or make a connection to someone Another way to help balance this chakra is to connect with crystals and gemstones associated with love and the heart. These “Love Stones” can help bring love into your life through their energy in many different ways. Rose Quartz, known as the stone of “unconditional love”, can

bring about a feeling of inner peace because of its calming energy, cultivating a state of mind that allows one to receive love. If one has suffered from loss, it can help to bring comfort; if one has lost trust, it can help bring back faith and self-esteem; and if one has never been in love, it can help open up all the possibilities of falling in love. Rhodonite is the stone of self love, also known as the “first aid stone”. It’s believed to ease away love scars and bring on forgiveness in others. Rhodonite can help increase confidence and self loving after emotional wounds, inspiring love toward others. It is also used to assist in healing physical wounds by placing it where it hurts. Emerald is a stone of successful and abundant love that can help open the heart in all aspects of life; enhancing our own self-love and strengthening the connection with divine love. Emerald is also known as a protective stone of the heart, boosting courage to love and be loved. Venita Chow is an Integrative Energy Healing practitioner & Carolina Brand Venegas is a Fibre Artist- both crystal guardians at CFS for the SOUL. Venita Chow is an Integrative Energy Healing practitioner & Carolina Brand Venegas is a Fibre Artistboth crystal guardians at CFS for the SOUL.

February -- the month of love! At the Community Farm Store every month is about love; love of our customers, love of our staff, love of our community and of course love of planet earth! In our Wellness Department, February is all about the heart. Our featured product this month is the Salus Hawthorn Juice offering exceptional healing potential. The humble Hawthorn Berry has a long and enduring history as THE herb to strengthen your heart -- both physically and emotionally. Come learn more about this and many other amazing remedies from our CFS Wellness Advisory Team, a unique Free Wellness Seminars group of compassionate, knowledgeable on Thursdays 5-6:30 p.m. and committed Holistic Health Care Feb. 7th, Dr. David Wang professionals who take great pride in Release yourself from setting the bar high for the health-food chronic pain industry and meeting our customers February 21 James Day where they are at to assist them on Energy Medicine, RHN their individual journeys to wellness. Learn the basic principles Our enthusiatic team is stacked with credentials in Holistic Nutrition, Herbology, of Hoʻoponopono which is a and Energy Medicine. We strive to stay Hawaiian practice of reconup-to-date with the latest research that ciliation and forgiveness. can help us to serve our customers and Sign up at Customer community. Service or call 250-748-6227.

“There is nothing better than a friend, unless it is a friend with chocolate.”― Linda Grayson Our selection of organic, free trade chocolate just keeps getting better. We have 100’s of organic and fair trade chocolates to choose from including exciting new Valen-tine’s Day offerings from Theo, Zazubean and Blossoms Raw. We even have velvet heart shaped boxes with trufﬂes from Ethereal Chocolate! For a romantic organic dinner for two or a heartfelt, love infused meal for your friends and family, we have all the ingredients you need including beautiful textiles, essential oils and locally made candles.

The Community Farm Store Organic Health & Whole Food Market www.communityfarmstore.ca TWO LOCATIONS TO SERVE YOU:

HIGHWAY #1 250-748-6227

DUNCAN GARAGE 250-597-3644

Dear Farm Store Family: The Community Farm Store Hwy. location will be closing one hour earlier Sunday, February 17th, so that we can all be together for our annual staff gathering. Thank you for your understanding and thank you for your continued support!

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Small Groups, Huge Impacts

magine your family separated by war. You, your spouse and children have finally been welcomed by a safe country a world away, but your adult children are left behind, still waiting. As are your parents, sisters, brothers, aunties, uncles, maybe your grandparents. People whom you love, who have been your community and your support system your entire life. Your family has had the tenacity and courage to navigate a war zone but the anguish is not over. This is reality for most refugee families in Canada, including the Cowichan Valley. Few have been reunited with family members. Those who have, were assisted by sponsorship groups—local people with big hearts. When refugees settle in a new country it is not just a new location, it is an entire world of difference: language, culture, climate, employment, politics, economics, food, an infinite list. And managing these differences may be in addition to overcoming trauma from violence and loss. Sponsorship groups epitomize “Many hands make light work.” As a group, sponsors plan and execute the necessary fundraising activities, such as cultural dinners, garden tours, trivia night, paint night, GoFundMe page, or garage sales. The local refugee families help wherever they can, such as cooking for events, and inviting friends, neighbours and employers to the fundraisers. Studies show that when refugees are reunited with family members the ease of settling in and contributing to the new community increases exponentially. Besides initial fundraising, a sponsorship group is required to provide the family with one year of settlement assistance in the form of: • Greeting newcomers at airport and/or locally; orient to new surroundings • Emotional/moral support • Sourcing housing, clothing, furniture, household goods, etc. • Food (having staples ready

upon arrival/shopping) • Transportation (orient to public transit/assist in obtaining driver’s license) • Language Support • Schooling (register/ introductions/purchase materials) • Childcare (finding, registering, etc.) Being part of a sponsorship group is a one-year commitment and is carried out hand-in-hand with the new family’s local relatives and the Cowichan Intercultural Society (CIS). A sponsorship group works together to plan and brainstorm activities, generally with individual members choosing tasks that suit their schedules, interests and skills (finances, coordination of events, shopping, research, website, social media, etc.) right down to making welcome signs for the airport. This wide range of responsibilities makes a sponsorship group ideal for Cowichan Valley parents to undertake with their children– volunteering together amid a new culture is exciting! The Cowichan Valley Intercultural Society will assist pre-arrival with checking documentation; submitting applications; holding funds in trust; and acting as main contact with IRCC (Immigration, Refugees and Citizenship Canada). In the words of Cowichan Valley locals who are either in or have been in a sponsorship group: • “It was one of the most worthwhile things I’ve ever done.” (KH) •“It’s a privilege to be part of a sponsorship group.” (MR) If you are interested in becoming part of a sponsorship group or want to learn more, we’d be happy to discuss this with you. Please contact: Catherine J. Johnson, Coordinator English Language Mentoring Program (250) 748-3112 or catherine@ cis-iwc.org Submitted by the Cowichan Intercultural Society

“marijuana.”

Cannabis Out Of The Closet

et’s shed light on the false information about cannabis, which has been fed to us in the form of propaganda. Misleading information that has been used to further push pharmaceuticals and gain oppression against minorities. Cannabis has been used as medicine and in ceremonies for 10,000 yrs. Documented worldwide use includes ancient India, Egypt, China, Japan, Spain, Europe, Central and South America. To this day in India, it’s an important part of their culture, used medicinally, religiously, recreationally, and spiritually. Cannabis is mixed into special drinks called bhang, a mix of cannabis paste, milk, ghee, and spices. Ancient Indian writers refer to bhang as one of the kingdoms of herb that releases us from anxieties and has the ability to make people happy and improve mental powers. In the US throughout the 19th century, pharmaceutical giants Bristol-Myers Squibb and Eli Lilly used cannabis in medicines to treat insomnia, migraines and rheumatism to mention a few. Scientific journals published hundreds of articles promoting the therapeutic benefits of cannabis. After the Mexican Revolution, immigrants fled to the U.S. where immigration fears ran rampant. And thus began the anti immigration assault that played a large role in the first anti-cannabis legislation. In an effort to marginalize the new migrant population, the laws were targeted using the term

In 1930 Harry Anslinger, director of the newly created Federal Bureau of Narcotics, was responsible for generating the negative stigma surrounding cannabis. He launched a campaign against “Marijuana” and minorities. Anslinger messages racialized the plant, “Marijuana is the most violence causing drug in the history of mankind. Marijuana smokers are Negroes, Hispanics, Filipinos and entertainers. Their satanic music jazz and swing, result from marijuana usage. Reefer makes darkies think they’re as good as white men.” Anslinger’s efforts are the reason “marijuana” became a negative word. He specifically used the term “marijuana” when campaigning against the plant, adding to the herb’s foreign stigma. Cannabis was no longer the plant found in medicines that had been consumed by Americans all over the country. In modern day there have been countless published studies and testimonies that back up the healing power of Cannabis. Renowned Doctors in Israel have been studying cannabis since the 60s. And through this research they have been able to prove the benefits of Cannabis as a medicine. Easing and healing such things as epilepsy, cancer, PTSD, chronic pain and inflammation. It also has an amazing positive effect on nerve pain, childhood seizures and the size reduction of tumours. Plant medicines like Cannabis have been given a bad name. Pharmaceuticals have their place, but let’s give our ancient medicines a chance to gently heal us, without the side effects of prescriptions. Karla Rothweiler Wild plant medicine maker, advocate of all things sacred and proud Mother. loveplantmedicine@ gmail.com

TWO EVENTS

COWICHAN ESTUARY NATURE CENTRE The Cowichan Estuary Nature Centre is so happy to announce our new nature program, funded in part by Our Cowichan Communities Health Network! Sea Squirts is a FREE, drop-in nature program where parents and their pre-school aged children and infants can come together to connect with each other, learn about nature in fun and engaging ways, and support the development of early literacy skills. Lead by the amazing, superstar Nature Centre volunteer Kerrie Talbot, a retired Early Childhood Educator and Library Assistant. It’s grounded in nature stories and learning with a strong social and emotional health component. Every Thursday from February 7th - March 7th, 11:00-12:00pm at the Cowichan Estuary Nature Centre, located in Hecate Park, Cowichan Bay.

RETURN OF THE GREAT BLUE HERON BURGER NIGHT Join us for a Beer & Burger fundraiser at the Cow Bay Pub featuring great food, a silent auction, fantastic live music from Paul Ruszel AND storytelling from local naturalists and nature lovers about our Return of The Great Blue Heron. All in support of the Cowichan Estuary Nature Centre education and restoration work. February 24, Return of the Great Blue Heron - Proceeds go to the Cowichan Estuary Nature Centre - 5:0O - 8:00 pm, Cowichan Bay Pub, 1695 Cowichan Bay Rd, $25 (Drink/ Burger/Side)

WINTER SONATAS WILLIAM FEASLEY, GUITAR “Feasley’s guitar sounded, in the words of Segovia, like ‘a small orchestra’ in its variety of colors.” – Joseph McLellan, The Washington Post Classical guitarist William Feasley was the first guitarist to be awarded the Peabody Conservatory’s coveted Artist Diploma. Feasley performs sonata forms of works by Scarlatti, Ponce, Sor, and Rodrigo, as well as a piece written for him by American composer Peter Madlem entitled the Pateroller Sonata - a wonder confluence of blues, field hollers and classical form based on a clawhammer banjo tune. He has since been the recipient of numerous prizes and awards: a gold medal in the PanHellenic Guitar Competition in Athens, the Baltimore Chamber Music Awards and a Governor’s Citation for Outstanding Achievements in the Arts in Maryland. Feasley was selected to play for Andrés Segovia at the master’s historic last class at the University of Southern California was later featured on the CBS special Eulogy of Segovia. In addition to his solo work, Feasley is also the founding member of The D’Amore Duo, with Emily Tsai. He has appeared in the Ohrid Spoleto Festival in Macedonia and venues such as St. Martin in the Fields in London, the National Gallery of Art, the Phillips Collection, the Washington National Cathedral and the Yale University Centre for British Art. He has toured with the Russian Chamber Orchestra, Music Viva , in the former Yugoslavia, with the Moyzes String Quartet in Slovakia, performed live on ABC International Radio in Australia, with New York’s Bacchanalia Ensemble under the direction of Nina Beilina and Washington’s 20th Century Consort. Sunday February 10, 2:00 pm at St Michael’s Church, Chemainus Tickets: At the door $25. Under 18: $10 In advance: $18. Available at: Ten Old Books, Duncan; or by phoning 250-748-8383

THE UNFAITHFUL SERVANTS The Unfaithful Servants have quickly gained a reputation in Western Canada as an in demand festival band and a must-see act. With an original and exciting approach to traditional Americana, folk, bluegrass and country music, the group serves up explosive instrumentals, compelling story-telling and high powered vocals. The band’s lineup includes American born Mandolinist Jesse Cobb could be described as a virtuoso on his instrument. He is a founding member of the critically acclaimed bluegrass group The Infamous String Dusters, and with that group he received a Grammy nomination for one of his original compositions. Jesse has recorded and performed with the likes of Bela Fleck, Lee Anne Womack, Dirks Bentley, and Jim Lauderdale among others. He’s performed many times on the historic stage of The Grand Old Opry and has toured the world. His exceptional talent is widely recognized in the bluegrass world, and he is an innovator of the instrument.Dylan Stone is a restless songwriter who is constantly pursuing new sounds and collaborations. An interesting and storied career has led him to share the stage with Alejandro Escovedo, open for Keith Urban at BC’s largest country music festival, play onstage with Robert Randolf &amp; The Family Band, and perform his songs for Lou Reed in Nashville, Tennessee. Miriam Sonstenes is a founder of beloved Canadian roots trio The Sweet Lowdown, who have won or been nominated for various awards at the Canadian Folk Music Awards, Western Canadian Music Awards, and Vancouver Island Music Awards. She has studied under bluegrass fiddle legend Bobby Hicks and is a tireless student to her muse. Jesse’s mandolin and Miriam’s fiddle grace The Unfaithful Servants with sounds both sweet and hard driving. Alex Remple on stand-up bass solidifies the group with groove and versatility. Alex also performs and tours North America and Europe with Canadian group West My Friend. The Unfaithful Servants, February 22, doors 7pm show 7:30pm, The Chapel at Providence Farm 1843 Tzouhalem Rd. Tickets $20

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) Yay! You are popular! Not only will you be schmoozing with everyone, especially good friends, you will also be more involved in clubs and associations. Enjoy hanging out with younger people. You have lots of energy and drive for the coming month because fiery Mars is in your sign. Meanwhile, Venus wants you to travel and explore the world! Venus will also encourage you to visit museums, art galleries, beautiful parks and stimulating places because your appreciation of beauty is heightened. Taurus (April 20-May 20) Once a year, the Sun sits at the top of your chart for four weeks. That time has arrived. This means you are in the “spotlight.” Everyone notices you more, especially bosses, parents and VIPs. (This includes the police.) By magic, you look great to others! They see you as competent, capable and strong. Therefore, use this month to try for a promotion or to promote your ideas. It’s the perfect time to ask for approval or permission for something. Meanwhile, you feel passionate and sexy! Plus it will be easy to get money, gifts and goodies from others. Gemini (May 21-June 20) This month you want to travel to new places and meet new faces. You want to learn as much as possible through courses, workshops or school. You will be fascinated by people from different cultures and other countries. People will love to meet you and be in your company because both Venus and Jupiter are opposite your sign, improving all your relationships with everyone. Mars pumps your energy to deal with groups and friends. Plan on good conversations, fun with

others, and hopefully, a change of scenery! Cancer (June 21-July 22) You’re in the zone this month because you feel ambitious and in charge of things. Coworkers and everything to do with your job are supportive. This is good. Now you have the time and energy to focus on a lot of red-tape details regarding shared property, inheritances, insurance disputes or anything to do with the wealth and resources of others or the wealth and resources for which you might be responsible. No worries. I repeat you’re in the zone – you’re on top of things! You’re working hard and you’re in control. Leo (July 23-Aug. 22) This month, the Sun is opposite your sign, which sharpens your focus on your closest relationships and partnerships. It gives you more detachment and objectivity, which in turn, allows you to learn more about yourself through these relationships. You can examine these relationships to see how they do or do not fulfil your needs and wants. Obviously, for your own benefit, you must be as good for your partner as he or she is for you. This will not be a time to go it alone. Instead, form working units with others to get things done. Virgo (Aug. 23-Sept. 22) You will be happy this month because the arrangement of the planets in your chart urges you to become more efficient in everything you do! You will give more thought to how you manage your life and how you take care of daily details. How can you make things run more smoothly to make your life easier? Likewise, what can you do to boost your health? You will also enjoy redecorating at home and entertaining good friends so that you can show them what you did! Sex and intimacy will be powerful, perhaps even transforming. Oh my!

Libra (Sept. 23-Oct. 22) Good news this month! It’s party city for you! More precisely, you will feel free to express yourself and be exactly who you are. Your aim will be to do what you want to do and to set your own priorities. Amusing diversions, recreational fun, parties, the arts, movies, musical performances, sports events and playful times with children will be tops on your menu. Basically, you will seek relationships that are fun! In fact, for some, new romance will blossom! This is the perfect time to grab a vacation, big or small. Scorpio (Oct. 23-Nov. 21) This month, your attention turns to home, family and your private life. Many will tackle home repairs and be involved in family discussions. However, this is also be a good time to intellectually withdraw to examine your personal life and how it does or does not meet your needs. Now is the time to express to those where you live, how you wish things would be. You’ll find it easy to work hard and be productive. Small wonder that you can boost your earnings in the next month, because this is what you will do for the entire year! Oh yes, “I smell money!” Sagittarius (Nov. 22-Dec. 21) Your daily pace accelerates now with short trips, errands, appointments, conversations with siblings, relatives and neighbours plus increased reading, writing and studying. You will be keen to enlighten others about your views. Venus in your sign makes you charming and diplomatic. Mars will spur your desire to explore sports, fun diversions and romance. Ever since December, your life started to get easier. You are still work but somehow, there is less stress. This is the divine protection of your ruler Jupiter being in your sign. Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan. 19) You are never casual about money (Lord knows you hate waste). This month, you will

be more focused on your wealth, assets, earnings, possessions and cash flow. “Money, money, money!” You will have excellent moneymaking ideas. You will talk about financial projects with others. Tension on the home front might arise from increased chaos and activity; but some of this activity will be based on your desire to initiate renovations and improvements. Meanwhile, secret trysts and private love affairs might take place for some of you. Aquarius (Jan. 20-Feb. 18) Ta da! This month the Sun is in your sign. This happens only once a year, and when it does, it boosts your energy and attracts people and favourable circumstances to you. This is your chance to recharge your batteries for the rest of year. Mercury is also in your sign making you more talkative, inquisitive and busy with ideas and tasks. Meanwhile, Mars will lend extra emphasis to your communications making you persuasive and convincing! You will put a lot of yourself into what you have to say. Enjoy warm friendships with others, including interactions with groups. Pisces (Feb. 19-March 20) Your personal year is drawing to a close. This means this month is the perfect time to take stock and give yourself a report card. How well are you doing at the art of living? Look back over your shoulder at the previous year. How do you want your new year to be different? Jot down three or four points that you want to make sure you can focus on in your new year. One thing is certain; your reputation with bosses and parents will shine in 2019 because for the first time in over a decade, Jupiter is at the top of your chart boosting your chance to make a name for yourself. www.georgianicols.com

Canadian Pipeline Push Promotes False And Misleading Claims An Angus Reid poll found 58 per cent of Canadians think lack of pipeline capacity is a national crisis. They can be forgiven for this. The company that owns a near monopoly on newspapers in Canada, aided by politicians and fossil fuel interests, has put significant effort into convincing them. That the number rises to 87 per cent in Alberta, with 96 per cent believing that not building new pipelines would have a major impact on the Canadian economy, isn’t surprising. All mainstream newspapers there are owned by the same company, political parties across the spectrum prioritize oil and gas interests over everything, and even educational institutions like the University of Calgary have been compromised by industry influence. When the National Post signed a 2013 agreement with the Canadian Association of Petroleum Producers, its publisher, Douglas Kelly, said, “We will work with CAPP to amplify our

energy mandate and to be a part of the solution to keep Canada competitive in the global marketplace. The National Post will undertake to leverage all means editorially, technically and creatively to further this critical conversation.” That agreement and similar language later extended to its parent company, Postmedia, which owns most major daily newspapers in Canada, as well as many community papers. The National Post’s opinion pages are full of climate-science denial, with few opposing viewpoints. And the Alberta government has spent $23 million on a slick, misleading ad campaign to convince people B.C. is hurting the country by opposing a pipeline project from the oilsands to Vancouver. Is lack of pipeline capacity a crisis? Are there not things that should concern us more? Much of the information governments and media are spreading about pipelines is false. Alberta Premier Rachel Notley claims Canada is losing $80 million a day because of a “price discount” on Canadian bitumen that could be overcome with a pipeline to ship more to markets beyond the U.S. Her figure is double the estimate in a Scotiabank report that itself was found to be flawed. There is no real “discount” on Canadian product, nor are there countries outside the U.S. clamouring for our bitumen. The lower price is because it’s

costly to extract and process and must be diluted before being shipped by pipeline. As Will Horter writes in the National Observer, new international marine shipping fuel standards limiting high-sulphur heavy crude “will shrink Alberta’s share of marine fuel market and add an additional two to three dollars a barrel in refining costs to remove the sulphur.” Beyond that, the economic and societal costs from the pollution and climate impacts of rapidly digging up, shipping and consuming these fossil fuels, whether the end product is burned here or in other countries, continue to rise along with global emissions and temperatures. That’s a crisis! An Insurance Bureau of Canada report found damages to homes, businesses and vehicles from extreme weather events in 2018 cost insurers here $1.9 billion, up from $300 to $400 million in 2009. That represents just a fraction of overall costs to governments, businesses and individuals of extreme weather events, increasing health impacts, habitat damage and loss, cleanup of abandoned oil and gas wells, fluctuating global energy markets, food and water security, and even increasing refugee claims. A study in Nature Communications concluded the world could meet Paris Agreement climate targets and slow impacts by immediately phasing out fossil fuels and their infrastructure. That’s in line with a recent Intergovernmental Panel

on Climate Change report that concluded we must take significant action over the next dozen years to reduce the threat of catastrophic global warming. Phasing out fossil fuels won’t be easy, but it’s necessary, and we have to start now. There’s no shortage of solutions. Clean energy technologies are improving as costs are dropping, providing economic and employment opportunities. Carbon pricing has been proven effective in reducing reliance on coal, oil and gas and encouraging energy conservation, efficiency and cleaner alternatives. What won’t help is continuing to dig up, frack and sell climate-disrupting fossil fuels as quickly as possible before markets tank in the face of climate change and better alternatives. Those in media, government, industry and society who lack the insight, imagination or courage to recognize our plight and work for change are putting everyone at risk.

David Suzuki is a scientist, broadcaster, author and co-founder of the David Suzuki Foundation. Written with contributions from David Suzuki Foundation Senior Editor Ian Hanington. Learn more at www.davidsuzuki.org

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