March 2022 Issue 160 by Cowichan Valley Voice

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MARCH 2022 ISSUE 160 HAPPY INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY I SPRING RECIPES I LOCAL ARTS & MUSIC

March 2022 Issue 160 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 Proofreader Calendar Richard Badman Diana Pink Angela Sheppard Advertising Enquiries Please contact us at info@cowichanvalleyvoice.com for a rate card, monthly offers and print ad specials. Next Ad Deadline March 15 for April 2022 Issue 161 *Non Profit Community Ad Rates available please enquire. COMMUNITY CALENDAR LISTINGS ARE FREE! Next EVENTS DEADLINE March 15 for April 2022 Issue 161 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 Susan Down, Craig Spence, Bill Jones, Sarah Barnes, Jessica Schacht, Jenny Garlini, Jaimie Schmidt, Chef Brad Boisvert, Grant Easterbrook, Amanda Vance, Kendra Thomas, Eva Bickerton, Amy Caine, DeAnna Cross, Jane Nares, Catherine Harding–Simons, and Rhonda M. Cribbs, Christy Greenwood, Shayna Grimwood, Bernie Dinter, Rosina Rodighiero, Tamara Dinter, Larry Pynn, Bill Nielsen, Tim Mock, David McCauley, Lisa Hitch, Kate Woodland, Patty Abbott, Alicia Bridge, Christina Hamill, Andrew Sawyer, Tracey Hanson, Ray Anthony, Kerrie Talbot, Madeline Southern, Joanne Sales, Debbie Wood, Ranji & David, David Suzuki, The lovely Georgia Nicols, Nicolette Genier, Cindy Jolin, and the Wonderful Staff at the Community Farm Store. We welcome your story ideas & photo submissions; however Cowichan Valley Voice Magazine reserves the right to omit and/or edit all submissions for space, clarity, content and style. The opinions expressed in Valley Voice Magazine do not necessarily reflect those of the editor, publishers or other contributors. Please send a query email with your suggested topic prior to sending your article as space is limited and may not always be available. Valley Voice Magazine is distributed through 450 + select locations throughout the Cowichan Valley- Malahat, Mill Bay, Shawnigan Lake, Cherry Point, Duncan, Cowichan Bay, Crofton, Chemainus and Salt Spring Island and to Cowichan Lake, Ladysmith, Victoria, Tofino and Parksville Paula Brunner is the designer behind the labels of Blue Grouse’s Gamay Noir Pét Nat. She’s an engineer, graphic designer and has recently joined the team at Blue Grouse as manager of special projects.

Interested in marketing your business in the Valley Voice each month? Learn more about

how your business can be featured in our pages! call 250 746 9319 / text 250 709-8846 info@cowichanvalleyvoice.com 4

OUR COMMUNITY March Events 5 Are you a newcomer here in Canada? Welcome! 22 Celebrating Women - International Women’s Day 23 Providence Farm Garden Volunteers Call Out 41 The Second Seven Years of Childhood 53 Growing Healthy Children in Times of Stress 54 Maximizing Fuel Efficiency 61 Heritage Museum Now Open for the Season 64 Cowichan Elder College Spring Program 67 March Forecasts 69 Directory 70-71 LOCAL FOOD & DRINK Westcoast Shellfish 10-11 Mussels With Miso And Apple Cider 11 Family Spring Rolls 12-13 Spring Rollin’ 13 History Glass 14 Hearty and Delicious Sourdough Bread Bowls 16-17 Classic Chili Recipe 17 Pet Nat by the Glass 18 Past the Family Favourite 19 Tomato & Egg Stew 21 HOME & GARDEN Thoughts on Interior Design for the Successful Single Professional Woman 31 Frame Your Family This Spring 33 Thinking of Planting An Edible Landscape? Ado Can Help 36 Planting For Pollinators 37 Inspire The Next Generation of Growers 38 Seedy Saturday is Coming! 39 Cut Broom in Bloom 40 The Dirt on Lime 40 Spring Clean Checklist 60 LOCAL ARTS The Art + Math Beauty Equation 7 Circling in Colour, The Fine Art of Quilling 8 Writing’s Special Place in the Arts 9 Ukes Misbehavin’ 30 Romancing the Stone with Kristina Boardman 32 Chris Ronald with John Macarthur Ellis 45 Chemainus Classical Concerts presents: We still have Paris 64 BODY, MIND & SOUL Creating Wellness for You and the Environment 24 Vegan Synthetic-Free Truly Natural 25 Warmland Dance Opens New Studio 26 The Miracle of Wool 27 Fashion Advice from Your Local Goldstone Girl Amy Caine 28 How to Develop Your Personal Capsule Wardrobe 29 Living Your Design Immersion Workshop 34 Colouring Outside of the Lines 35 Shut the Fridge Door 47 Glutathione “The Master Antioxidant” 48 Common Ground 49 Tending to the Heart 50-51 Prenatal Secure Attachment 58 Grounding Wool 59 Why We Should Read: Indigenous Relations 65 PETS, RECREATION & NATURE Public Overwhelmingly Supports Conservation In Municipal Forest Reserve 43-44 Wild Flower and Ecological Reserves 55 A Song that Changed Me 56 The Herons (Smuqw’a) are Back! 62 Lucky Dog Training through the Ages.. 63 Anthropocene means we hold the key to our future 68

MARCH EVENTS

1 Art of Math Show CVAC Studio 2687 James St, Duncan Runs to 03/14 FREE

1 Times Two Art Show Fran Benton & Iris Churcher CVAC Annex 2687 James St, Duncan Runs to 03/14 FREE 1 Re-StART Show CPAC Gallery 3rd Floor 2687 James St, Duncan Runs to 03/29 1 Circling in Colour Sarah Brunt Rainforest Arts 9781 Willow St, Chemainus Runs to 04/01 3 Elder College Armchair Travel 1-3pm Gwyneth Kingham Kerry Park Centre 250-748-7529 $14 4 Flex Youth Arts Showcase CVAC Gallery 2687 James St, Duncan Runs to 04/1 FREE 4 Providence Farm Thrift Store now open 9-2pm 1843 Tzouhalem Rd, Duncan also 03 11/18/25 8 The Second Seven Years: Child Development w/ Waldorf Educator Lisa Hitch 7-8:30pm for zoom link contact swpa@ sunrisewaldorfschool.org 9 Being a Protagonist for Social Change Part I 7:15-8:30pm call for details 250-748-2585 9 Tilly & The Crazy Eights Warmland Book & Film Collective 5-7pm online warmlandBFC@gmail.com 10 Elder College Spring Garden Making it Easy 10-11:30 Bernie Dinter 250-748-7529 $14 12 Cowichan Seedy Saturday 3pm Charles Hoey Park 124 Canada Ave, Duncan 12 Ukes Misbehavin’ CFG Coffeehouse Duncan United Church Hall 246 Ingram St doors 7pm www. cowichanfolkguild.ca 13 Times They Are A Changing 11-3pm Heritage Museum 2851 Church Way, Mill Bay by donation also 03/ 20/27 14 CVRD CVAC Spring Break Art Camp ages 6-12 2687 James St, Duncan Runs to 03/18 15 Diversity Art Show Val Konig CVAC Annex 2687 James St, Duncan Runs to 03/26 FREE

16 CV Stamp Club Meeting 7pm Valley Seniors’ Centre 198 Government St, Duncan Visitors Welcome FREE 18 The Journey Michael Clarke Concert Chemainus Theatre Festival 9737 Chemainus Rd chemainustheatre.ca Runs to 04/03 19 Brewmasters Dinner w/ Riot Brewery Farm Table Inn 5:30pm 6755 Cowichan Lake Rd $125 www.farmtableinn.ca 20 Living Your Design Workshop 10am online register loveyouareunique@gmail.com Sundays Runs to 05/08 $350 20 Chemainus Classical Concerts Anne Grimm & Bruce Vogt 2pm St. Michael’s Church, 2858 Mill St, Chemainus $25/$10 Advance only 250748-8383 21 CVRD CVAC Spring Break Art Camp ages 6-12 2687 James St, Duncan Runs to 03/25 Info 250-748-7529 21&22 Understanding the CanadaGAP Program 8:304:30pm Zoom https://www. eventbrite.ca/e/267866274237 $25 23 Being a Protagonist for Social Change Part 2 7:158:30pm call for details 250748-2585 23 Kombucha Making Workshop Part 1 7-8:30pm Zoom https://www.eventbrite. ca/e/269251998977 $15 26 Chris Ronald w/ John Macarthur Ellis The Chapel Providence Farm 1843 Tzouhalem Rd, Duncan 7pm doors $20/$25 www.cowichanfolkguild.ca

the second 7 Years

March 8th Tuesday evening

7-8.30 pm

Join the Sunrise Waldorf School community for a deeper look into development in the second seven years of the child with Waldorf Educator Lisa Hitch. Hosted by the Sunrise Waldorf School Parents Association. All are welcome. Zoom link available by request please contact: swpa@sunrisewaldorfschool.org

2148 Lakeside Road, Duncan sunrisewaldorfschool.org

SPRING BREAK FUN!

Wholesome Pizza, Sweet & Savoury Snacks Smoothies and more! Dine in or Take to Go!

Kid Friendly Treats!

28 Registration Opens Fine Arts Show CVAC https:// cowichanvalleyartscouncil.ca 29 Elder College Zentangle 2-4pm June Maffin to register 250-748-7529 $14 29 Conscious Aging w/ Dr. Judith Martin Elder College 2687 James St, Duncan register 250-748-7529 4 sessions 31 Robert Sears Art Show CVAC Annex 2687 James St, Duncan Runs to 04/14 FREE

The Art +Math Beauty Equation Susan Down is managing director of the Cowichan Valley Arts Council.

ine art doesn’t have a monopoly on beauty. After all, Aristotle called math principles “the greatest forms of the beautiful.” In one of the most unusual shows that the Cowichan Valley Arts Council has created, local schools have been asked to show how gorgeous ratios and equations can be and earn prizes for their creations. Their work, inspired by everybody from Fibonacci to MC Escher, will be displayed alongside some fine artists and an architect as part of The Art of Math show (March 1-14) in the studio. Sponsored by Island Savings Credit Union, the show ends appropriately on Pi Day (3/14). As a 20th-century British math expert said, “Beauty is the first test. There is no permanent place in the world for ugly mathematics.” Does your child scribble in the margins of every page of homework? That desire to

The Odd Couple, Claudia Lohmann

illustrate the world started early for famous artists from Michelangelo to Georgia O’Keeffe. To celebrate talent in our local youth, we are hosting the annual Youth Art Showcase (March 4 to April 1) in the CVAC Gallery. This year, the age range of artists participating has been expanded (13 – 25 years old) to include young early-career artists and new graduates. Younger budding artists (age 6-12) will also enjoy the week-long spring break camps with an art focus at CVAC in March. Consult the calendar for more details. And if that isn’t enough, we have two more shows on this month: Times Two is a light-hearted art show in the Annex until March 14 featuring whimsical work by well-known illustrator Iris Churcher and multidisciplinary artist (sculpture, painting, ceramics, and video) Fran Benton. Both have taught at the university level and practise what they teach! Diversity: the Art of Val Konig runs in the Annex the

Trial By Fire Pottery Studio 2 Week Wheel Classes

Hilary Huntley

www.trialbyﬁrepottery.ca I 250-710-8758 www.trialbyﬁrepottery.ca

last two weeks in March. Konig, now living in Lake Cowichan, was a longtime art

teacher on Salt Spring Island. cowichanvalleyartscouncil.ca 7

hen Sarah Brunt first saw a YouTube video about quilling she was intrigued and wanted to give it a try. Seven years on, the little known technique has become a passion, and her colourful compositions have taken the form in a new direction. “Ever since I was a little girl I’ve loved to make things, so I’ve done pottery, I had a spell with watercolour that was lots of fun, but this quilling is something that I’ll stick with for the rest of my life,” she said. “I feel most at home making this art.” Featured at Rainforest Arts in March and April, Brunt’s work will be on display in the gallery and in the adjacent Coastal Community Credit Union. In case you’re not familiar with quilling, it’s the art of scrolling coloured paper strips into tight reels or ‘circles’, which are hardened and brightened by dipping and curing in mod podge (an artists’s adhesive, sealant and finish). Brunt glues these circles to canvasses, creating intricate designs. “It does take a lot of time. It’s

Featured at Rainforest in March and April, Sarah Brunt has taken the little known art of quilling in a new, exciting direction.

‘Circling in Colour’, The Fine Art Of Quilling not a quick process,” she said, “but it’s very satisfying.” Starting out, she created pieces that were similar to other quillers’ works. But it wasn’t long before she struck out on a style all her own, arranging the circles on two dimensional panels instead of building three-dimensional forms. “It just sort of evolved that way,” she said. Vibrant colour is another hallmark of Brunt’s compositions. “I am most

inspired by colour,” she said. “Generally the first thing that comes to mind for me is colour. I love bright colours and colours that contrast well together.” People ask Brunt if she gets bored or frustrated with the repetitive, time consuming process of quilling. “It’s a great feeling,” she replies. “It’s my little meditative process. When I immerse myself into the process of doing it, everything that’s in the background of that day just

sort of melts away. “It’s time consuming, but it’s not tedious.” Drop by the gallery April 24 between noon and 3pm to meet Sarah and see a quilling demo. You can also see an online demo at RainforestArts. ca under the ‘Demos’ tab. Rainforest Arts is located at 9871 Willow Street in Chemainus. More information is available at RainforestArts. ca or 250-246-4861 or info@ rainforestarts.ca. CraigSpenceWriter.ca

Writing’s special place in the arts by Craig Spence Why do we write? What is the place of literature in today’s world? I find myself asking these questions after having dedicated myself to careers as a journalist and author for more than fifty years. Not because I have any doubts about the value and importance of creative writing – I’m as immersed in its joys and tribulations as ever, and can’t think of a more meaningful way to leave this planet than as a frantic scribbler describing the experience of dying. So there’s the first point. Like every art form, writing is a means of exploring, challenging, expanding upon and sharing the human experience. Many of us keep journals. Those recorded thoughts aren’t just date stamped milestones; they are moments of reflection on the importance of each and every day. They tell us where we are going by studying the tarot of where we’ve been. We’re all authors of our own destiny, even if we don’t want to set the incriminating evidence down on paper. Creative writers go a few steps farther, imagining experience from different perspectives and through various lenses. At its best, I like to consider my stories ‘real fiction’. By reimagining events – bending, shading and

distorting interactions and settings – I hope to achieve a heightened sense of feeling and meaning about my ‘real world’. Do I have to win a BC Book Prize to verify my status as a writer? The short answer is, no. The longer answer is: Honing my skills by writing, rewriting and sharing is a process that leads to deeper, more complex understanding. I am writing by the simple act of keying letters into a computer; I become a writer when I key those letters in with readers in mind. The Chemainus Valley Cultural Arts Society wants to encourage writers by providing supportive readers at every stage of literary development. This Valley Voices page, which the CVCAS publishes in partnership with The Cowichan Valley Voice Magazine, is one of those venues. Go to CVCAS.ca/Literature to find out more about what we’re doing to pry open the writer’s closet door. We’ve talked from the ‘why we write’ point of view, what about the ‘place of literature in today’s world’ POV? It’s not unreasonable to ask, in a world bombarded with streaming videos, a deluge of television stations, video games, virtual realities… and so on: Why is literature so important? Well, excuse the irony, but literature is important because we are subjected to an

overwhelming barrage of information and entertainment coming at us from all over the world. We need time and space to think and feel our own thoughts, and literature provides that haven. Reading is a uniquely imaginative activity. From words on a page, readers create a story, add their own nuances, and pause to reflect on what’s developing from scene to scene. To a greater or lesser degree, other mediums overwhelm that creative aspect, with video games and virtual reality goggles the exemplars of powerful stimuli creating uniform experiences. Literature is also more open to diverse voices. All you need to write a story is a pencil and notebook, and all you need to tell it is a street corner and the hutzpah to get up on your soapbox. True, that opens the field to more preachers and oddballs, but it also creates channels for true genius to surprise us, without the need to curry big budget favour. Finally – due to considerations of space, not exhaustion – writing is a mode where voices close to home can be heard. Valley Voices is all about Island writers telling their stories. Submit your story idea (no matter what stage you’re at as a writer) by going to CVCAS.ca/literature/valleyvoices/ and we’ll help you tell it. Stories don’t live in closets or drawers!

West Coast Shellfish

W Upcoming Events March 19

Spring Equinox Dinner

March 26

Shellﬁsh Cooking Class For full details visit

www.deerholme.com BY RESERVATION ONLY

4830 Stelfox Rd, Duncan

For ReservationS 250 748 7450 Sands Funeral Chapel

Cremation & Reception Centre-Duncan by Arbor Memorial

Janice Winfrey Funeral Director

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

Bill Jones is a chef, author and food consultant based at Deerholme Farm.

e are spoiled here on the West Coast in our bounty of amazing shellfish. Many of the commercial species we raise here were introduced from other parts of the world but they have found a home here local waters. The ocean waters flowing down the coast from northern climates are rich with nutrients and very cold. This makes the prime areas for shellfish production around the mid-zone of Vancouver Island. Cold waters are necessary for fine flavours and nutrients are necessary for rapid growth and healthy shellfish. Seafood aquaculture (unlike salmon) is an industry that has largely been deemed sustainable and provides little harmful impact to the local environment. Shellfish need clean, nutrient filled water and not much else. They are, however, subject to the effects of dangers like pollution and red tide. Also called Paralytic Shellfish Poisoning (or PSP), red tide is a population explosion of

tiny toxic plankton (usually in the warmer months). When a red tide warning is posted in an area, the harvest of shellfish is banned until the levels of toxin is reduced to a safe level. All commercial shellfish in BC are tested to determine the safety of our products. Most of our local oysters are variants on the Japanese Oyster (Crassostrea gigas) that has been cultivated in our waters for decades. Oysters are marketed by a variety of names. The name might refer to the growing region (as in Chef Creek), the growing technique (ie. Tray-raised Miyagi) or perhaps the co-op that markets it (ie. Pacifc Kiss Oysters or Fanny Bay). They are available live in shells or shucked in containers. Local clams were a special food source for the local First Nations peoples. They harvested many varieties of clams and cockles, some were wind dried and kept for use in the winter, some were baked in fire pits covered with seaweed for use in celebrations and Potlach ceremonies. Most of the clams we see in the market today are Manilla Clams

(Venerupes phillipinarum), an introduced species that is known for its tender meat and small size. We also occasionally see the Little Neck native clams (Protothaca staminea) mixed in a batch of Steamer clams, but the Manilla clam dominates the fresh Market in BC. Mussels are another special treat from our local waters. The common wild blue mussel (Mytilus trossulus) is abundant on rocks and shorelines all over the island. Many commercial mussel farmers have selected the Mediterranean mussel (Mytilus edulis) and a new hybrid the golden mussel for local cultivation. We are very lucky to have amazing shellfish in our markets and March is the peak of the season.

Shellfish Class - At the height of the shellfish season we will cook with local shellfish including shucking, streaming and grilling techniques.Lots on info and sampling These classes are opportunities to expand your culinary horizons cooking with the finest local ingredients and working at the side of an accomplished instructor. Classes include a valuable primer on the topic and recipes to follow along in class and back home. Suitable for all levels of cooking skill but a prime opportunity for those looking to develop their skills and to ignite their creativity. Bill is the author of 12 cookbooks and is a recognized regional expert on mushrooms and wild foods. 3-4 dishes. March 26th, Saturday 12:00 noon – 4pm Cost : $125 person (plus GST)

Mussels With Miso And Apple Cider Courtesy Bill Jones, Deerholme Farm

Ingredients 2 lbs mussels 1 Tbsp butter 1 Tbsp miso 1 tsp minced garlic 1 onion, peeled and finely diced ½ cup apple or pear cider (or white wine) 2 Tbsp cilantro, minced minced fresh cilantro for garnish

Method

In a large bowl, place the mussels and rinse quickly with cold water, Pull off any threads attached to the side of the shell (the beard). Drain and set aside. Place a large pot over medium high heat. Add the butter, miso, garlic and onion. Saute until softened then add the apple cider and cilantro. Bring to a boil, add the mussels and cook for 5 minutes, covering with a lid. Shake the pot occasionally. When the mussels have just opened and are still plump, remove to a serving dish and garnish with the minced cilantro. Serve warm with rice or bread.

Sustainably Harvested Seafood

from Michelle Rose CSF

Michelle Rose Community Supported Fishery

www.michellerosecsf.com

By Sarah Barnes

Family Spring Rolls

Courtesy Sarah Barnres, Barnes and Maracle

Ingredients 1000 grams of the ground meat of your choosing 2 Packs of chosen wrapper 2 bulbs of garlic, minced 3 carrots grated 2 bunches of green onions sliced thin 1 can of water chestnuts diced No smaller than a thumb of minced ginger (I use at least 2 thumbs) frying oil such as peanut or canola Seasoning A good ratio is ¼ cup of each salty, sweet and sour then add a touch of the strong flavours to your taste. Salty: Low Sodium Soy sauce, Oyster Sauce, Fish Sauce Sweet: Kacap Manis, Hoisin, Mirin Sour: Rice Wine Vinegar, Lime juice Strong: Chili Garlic, Sesame Oil Method Put all the ingredients in a large bowl and mix together with your hands. I usually make a mini meatball to fry and test to make sure I have seasoned it well. When you are satisfied with the flavour it’s time to roll. Place 4-6 papers t a time on a clean counter surface, use roughly 1/2 cup filling and get rolling. Be careful to not overstuff. Depending on the paper you choose this is where a Google tutorial will come in very handy. Fry in deep fryer for 6-8 minutes or until golden brown and floating or fry in ½ inch oil on medium high heat 3-4 minutes on each side. Make sure the spring rolls don’t burn. Drain on a cooling rack or paper towel. Serve on a platter with dips.

JOIN US

WEDNESDAY to SATURDAY look for our daily specials on 40 Ingram Street

www.theoldﬁrehouse.ca 12

Downtown Duncan

(250) 597-3473

The Journey by Michael Clarke Chemainus Theatre Festival

oin us live in the Theatre for the premiere presentation of The Journey: A Concert by Michael Clarke. Tag along for the journey in this biographical concert, with plenty of music and storytelling. Tickets are available now by calling 1-800-565-7738, or online at chemainustheatre.ca. Michael is a singer/ songwriter, a multiinstrumentalist and plays several instruments, performing contemporary pop and soul music. The Journey is a solo theatre concert, a biographic concert based on his life spanning five decades, with lots of music and some storytelling. The stories are uplifting and focus on Michael’s journey of immigrating to Canada, growing up in Toronto, moving to Vancouver Island and discovering his passion for music and performing. He brings to life the people he met along the way, shares pivotal experiences that shaped his character and performs the music that he is inspired to write,

The singer and actor arrived from Toronto to perform in Rock Legends and Kim’s Convenience at the Chemainus Theatre Festival and decided to stay put on Vancouver Island, and he’s enjoyed his Island time ever since. Michael Clarke has performed in professional live theatre since 1989. Other theatre credits include: Soul King – A concert tribute to Sam Cooke, Miss Saigon, The Who’s Tommy, The Lion King, Seussical the Musical, One Man two Guvnors, Legends, Kim’s Convenience and Smokey Joe’s Café; latest Film & Television: Clifford the Big Red Dog – 2019 reboot. Whether you have seen Michael at the Chemainus Theatre or around town before, do not miss your chance to see the premiere performance of The Journey: A Concert by Michael Clarke. Matinee and evening shows for all-ages run March 17 – April 3. Call the Box Office at 1-800-565-7738, or at chemainustheatre.ca.

Spring Rollin’

pring is in the air and I am becoming increasingly hopeful with the days stretching out and the land come backs to life. My focus has been on family during these tumultuous times and I am trying to keep some sense of normalcy for my little ones as the whole world goes crazy. A big part of feeling normal is spending time together cooking and eating our favourite things. I am going to share with you a very special recipe, a guide line if you will to something sacred for my family. I call it Family Spring Roll recipe. My mother, my aunt and myself all have a version of this recipe. Our spring rolls come out in times of celebration and family gatherings. If the ladies in my family make spring rolls for you, one must know that they are a very special person indeed. I must give credit to the origin of this cherished recipe to my mom’s friend Kombo who is from Laos. She generously shared her recipe with my mom many years ago and we have been joyously eating spring rolls ever since. I recommend making lots! It is a labour of love as rolling them can be a challenge but the results are delicious and you will be loved and adored by all lucky enough to enjoy your efforts. With Spring break around the corner what better time to put the children to work rolling spring rolls and perhaps the recipe will continue with a new variation born. Notes: If you have a deep fryer, it will make your life easier but not to worry if you don’t a deepfrying pan with ½ inch of frying oil is what I used for 15 years

and it worked just fine. Jury is out on the air fryer. Consult Google for a rolling tutorial! You will need counterspace (rolling spring rolls takes up a lot of space), a large bowl, tongs, cooling rack or paper towel to drain oil off cooked rolls. The recipe provided makes 20-24 Spring rolls. Choose what kind of ground meat such as pork, chicken or beef Choose what kind of wrapper you would like such as rice paper which I recommend double wrapping or what is simply called ‘Chinese Spring Roll Wrapper’ it’s square and found near the tofu in most grocery stores. I recommend the latter for beginners as they are easier to roll. Last and certainly not least you will need some good dip Nuoc Cham is my favourite, though plum sauce or peanut sauce are also sure to please the crowd. Barnes and Maracle has their delicious Spring Rolls on the menu every week for delivery. Order by Wednesday for Friday’s dinner at your door!. www.barnesandmaracle.com

Club that really takes it to the next level. Nowadays of course you can achieve even further variations depending on the sweet vermouth you use. Punt e Mes, Carpana Antica, or Esquimalt Barrel Aged would all be great. So if you’re looking to celebrate St. Patty’s Day sans the neon green beer, I offer you the Clover Leaf. Maybe it’ll bring you some luck too.

HISTORY GLASS

f you’re looking for a drink that nods to St. Patrick’s Day without being artificially green, I’ve got a treat for you. An outlier in the vintage cocktail world, the Clover Leaf cocktail is similar to a Clover Club (indeed, in some iterations it’s exactly the same and only adds a mint garnish). The mint leaf addition seems to be invented by Jacques Straub in 1914 – you don’t need to reinvent the wheel right? I have however come across a recipe called the Clover Leaf that gives a little extra twist. The Clover Leaf Cocktail as it appears in 1935’s Old Mr. Boston Deluxe Official Bartender’s Guide adds sweet vermouth to the mix for pleasing results. This little twist adds a complexity to the classic Clover Leaf/

Clover Leaf Cocktail Adapted from 1935 Old Mr. Boston Deluxe Official Bartender’s Guide Ingredients: 2 oz Ampersand

Gin 1 oz Sweet Vermouth 1 pasteurized egg white ½ oz fresh lemon juice ½ oz grenadine/raspberry syrup Garnish: Sprig of mint

Method: Add all ingredients to a shaker and dry shake. Add ice to the tin and shake until frosty. Fine strain into a chilled cocktail glass. Smack your sprig of mint between your palms to release the aromatic oils. Garnish your cocktail with the sprig of mint. Cheers! Jessica Schacht Ampersand Distilling Co. ampersanddistilling. com

CELEBRATE SPRING WITH THESE LOCAL SIPPERS

ROCKY CREEK WINERY

SMALL BLOCK BREWERY

BLUE GROUSE ESTATE WINERY

ZANATTA WINERY

Pinot Gris 2020

Barracuda Honey Ale

2019 Gamay Noir Pet Nat

2020 Ortega

Our “orange” wine. This wine color is so vibrant when it sunlight hits it and can’t help but brighten things up. Well balanced with a fullness on the palate and peach notes along with the crispness. Fantastic with pasta or shrimp. $22

Bee-er. Barracuda is a reprise of our honey beer. The champagne of all honey: Slade’s Fireweed Honey. The Honey imparts a smooth, sweet fruitiness on the nose and palate. Mosaic and Azacca hops boost the fruity profile with earthy pine and floral aromas.$ Pairs well with nutty and spicy flavours like green curry. $14 per 473ml 4 pack.

A bright, crisp wine with aromas of red summer fruit. On the palate look for raspberry, red currant, and mineral notes. Pair this wine with a charcuterie board supplemented with a combination of triple crème brie, goat and camembert cheeses. Available by the glass at Blue Grouse Winery $7.99

Developed in Germany, and named for a Spanish poet and philosopher, this varietal thrives on the Island Our Ortega pairs well with East Asian cuisine, and any seafood dishes. Dishes like seafood paella, poké, fish soup, phô, baked sablefish, Pacific salmon, and bibimbap are all great pairings with Ortega. It’s also a perfect patio wine all by itself. $17.29

SALTMARSH GALLERY

163 kenneth st downtown duncan 250-737-3313

CONTEMPORARY PHOTOGRAPHY abstract I representational I modern

2190 Cowichan Bay Rd. Cowichan Bay I 250 597 8037

www.lukedowns.ca 15

BREAKFAST I LUNCH I DINNER

PANINIS • SOUPS • SALADS

Hearty and Delicious Sourdough Bread Bowls

HOT & COLD BEVERAGES Dine in or Order To Go

ith spring almost here it’s a perfect time to create something memorable and fun for the whole family. Trust me, my family devoured this dinner and my 4 year old son just loved the idea of eating the serving bowl! Sourdough bread bowls are crunchy on the outside and soft on the inside. Here’s a recipe everyone will love. Your family will delight in not only what’s filled in the bowl but the bowl itself- with very little clean up! This recipe will make a total of 4 medium size loaves or bowls. Equipment • Linen tea towel • Kitchen scale • Banneton or bowl • Bench scraper • Wood Peel • 12x16” parchment paper • Baking Stone or Dutch oven • Sheet metal tray Ingredients Leaven **See notes below about starter • 25 grams active sourdough starter • 75 grams bread flour • 75 grams water filtered (room temp)

23 KENNETH STREET DOWNTOWN DUNCAN 1 250 737 3933 16

Bread Dough • 120 grams leaven as prepared above- fully active • 660 grams water filtered, 80ºF • 700 grams bread flour • 175 grams whole-wheat flour • 20 grams salt • Rice flour for dusting your bannetons

Instructions Prepare levain: In a bowl, combine sourdough starter, water, and flour. Cover and rise in a warm spot for at least 5 hours, until it’s bubbly and doubled/tripled in size. Make the dough In a large bowl, add the leaven and 660 grams of room temperature water. Stir to break up the leaven. Add the remaining flours. Mix the dough by hand or use a dough whisk until there are no more dry bits of flour left (it will be very sticky). Scrape down the sides of the bowl, cover, and rest for 30 minutes. Sprinkle 20 grams of salt on the surface and pinch into the dough with a wet hand. Continue to mix until all of the salt has dissolved. Cover again and rest on counter top for 4 hours of bulk fermentation as follows. Bulk fermentation While bulk fermenting, you will need to stretch and fold the dough every 30 minutesapproximately 3-4 stretch and folds. With a wet hand, scoop one quarter of the dough from the bottom of the bowl. Stretch upwards as far as it will naturally pull and fold it back onto the center of the dough. Rotate the bowl and repeat three more times, so that all of the dough has been stretched. Cover and place the bowl back on your counter top to continue proofing.

Dividing the dough After the four hours are up, the dough will have grown substantially and will have a very supple texture. Transfer the dough onto a lightly floured work surface. Divide the dough in half using the bench scraper, you can use the scale to get precise equal halves or just wing it. Gently round into a ball with the side of your hand and the bench scraper to create tension. Let the dough rest for 20 minutes. Shape And Cold Proof Prepare a two 9 or 10-inch batard (oval) bannetons by dusting it with rice flour. If you do not have bread bannetons you can line a bread pan or bowl with a linen tea towel and dust rice flour over the towel. To shape the dough, with the help of a bench scraper, flip your dough over onto the other side. Let it relax for a moment, it will look like a rectangle. Fold in the right side, then the left side, and roll down towards you keeping tension. Pinch the sides to seal. Gently lift the dough into the prepared banneton, seam side up. Cover, and place it in the fridge to cold proof overnight (10-18 hours). Scoring and Baking Pre-heat your oven to 475º F with your baking stone or Dutch oven on the middle rack and a heavy metal sheet tray on the bottom

rack (you won’t need the tray if using the Dutch oven). When you are ready to bake the bread bowls, pull your bannetons out of the fridge and gently flip over onto your counter top. Divide dough into two halves (or into three if you’d like smaller bowls). Use your hand to create a rounded bun by gently cupping it and pulling it toward you using the counter top to create tension in the bun shape. If the dough is a bit sticky dust the counter with flour lightly. Use bench scraper and transfer the rounds of dough onto a sheet 12×16” parchment paper set atop a wood peel. Sprinkle flour and quickly make four slashes (to form a box) with a bread lame or knife on top of the loaf. To bake in the Dutch oven, place your loaf on parchment and lift into your Dutch oven with the lid on. To bake on your baking steel quickly slide the parchment paper off the peel onto the hot baking stone. Pour 1/2 cup of ice onto the hot baking tray. The steam will form a beautiful crust. Bake at 475ºF for 25 minutes. Allow the bread to cool completely before serving for the best texture.

Classic Chili Recipe

A delicious traditional chili recipe, made with simple at home staples that can be made up in minutes.

Ingredients

1 Tbls olive oil 1 medium yellow onion -diced 1 pound 90% lean ground beef 1/4 tsp ground cayenne pepper 1 1/2 Cups beef broth 15 oz. can petite diced tomatoes 16 oz. can red kidney beans, drained and rinsed

2 1/2 Tbls chili powder 2 Tbls ground cumin 2 Tbls granulated sugar 2 Tbls tomato paste 1 Tbls garlic powder 1 1/2 tsp salt 1/2 tsp ground black pepper

8 oz. can tomato sauce

Method

1. Add the olive oil to a large soup pot and place it over mediumhigh heat for two minutes. Add the onion. Cook for 5 minutes, stirring occasionally. 2. Add the ground beef to the pot. Break it apart with a wooden spoon. Cook for 6 -7 minutes, until the beef is browned, stirring occasionally. 3. Add the chili powder, cumin, sugar, tomato paste, garlic powder, salt, pepper, and optional cayenne. Stir until well combined. 4. Add the broth, diced tomatoes (with their juice), drained beans, and tomato sauce. Stir well. 5. Bring the liquid to a low boil. Then, reduce the heat (low to medium-low) to gently simmer the chili, uncovered, for 20-25 minutes, stirring occasionally. 6. Remove the pot from the heat. Let the chili rest for 5-10 minutes before serving. 7. Garnish with cilantro, cheese or any other fixing you enjoy.

dine in I patio service I take-out

How to serve your Bread Bowl Slice the top part of your bowl and put aside, gently cut or scoop out with your fingers the inside to create a hollow for your soup. Ladle in your favourite soup, stew or chilli and serve with the lid on the side.

fresh cut kennebec fries • crispy battered ﬁsh • delicious tacos • pizzas • poutines • burgers and more!

Images courtesy Jaimie Schmidt

Sunday- Thursday | 11:00 - 9:00 Friday & Saturday | 11:00 - 10:00

Jaimie Schmidt, baker and food stylist @The Sourdough Flourist

111 jubilee st, duncan I 778 • 422 • 3000 menu online at: freshkennys.com

Shift Intuitive/Psychic Readings “Leigh is a very gifted psychic. I was in a transitional time in my life when I ﬁrst met Leigh for a reading. She was able to translate what she was “getting” into concrete and practical applications for my life. That reading helped me to move forward with conﬁdence that I was in the right place at the right time.” - Denise

Call 250-619-3815 or email Leigh at: shift123@shaw.ca 17

Pasta The Family Favourite Chef Brad Boisvert, Cure Artisan Meat and Cheese

Pasta where did it start? Although popular stories claim Marco Polo introduced pasta to Italy following his exploration of the Far East in the late 13th century, pasta can be traced back as far back as the 4th century B.C., where an Etruscan tomb had pictured a group of people making what appears to be pasta. Some sources say pasta dates back more to the traditional Asian noodles. One thing all can agree on is every country has its own form of pasta. In Germany and Hungary, they have spaetzle. In Greece, orzo. In Poland, they enjoy pocket-like a ravioli, but it is a pierogi. In America, pasta is prepared and served similarly to the way it is found in Italy– except for all-American spaghetti and meatballs. So, when most of us hear the word pasta it is generally used to describe traditional Italian noodles. This differentiates it from those of types of noodles around the world. Pasta is

All recipe ingredients can be purchased at Cure Meat and Cheese, Valley View Centre 5-1400 Cowichan Bay Road Cobble Hill

made from unleavened dough consisting of ground durum wheat and eggs. It is the durum wheat that sets pasta apart from other forms of noodles. Pastas are divided into two broad categories: dried (pasta secca) and fresh (pasta fresca). Most dried pasta is produced commercially via an extrusion process and by machine, although it can be produced at home. Fresh pasta is traditionally

60 Day dry aged beef Made to Order Sandwiches Charcuterie Boxes Call or stop by to order!

produced by hand, sometimes with the aid of simple machines as well. Both dried and fresh pastas come in several shapes and varieties, with 310 specific forms known by over 1300 names. So, if you are confused on what shapes are what you are not alone. As a category in Italian cuisine, both fresh and dried pastas are classically used in one of three kinds of prepared dishes: as pasta asciutta (or pastasciutta), cooked pasta is plated and served with a complementary sauce or condiment; a second classification of pasta dishes is pasta in brodo, in which the pasta is part of a soup-type dish. A third category is pasta al forno, in which the pasta is incorporated into a dish that is subsequently baked in the oven. Pasta dishes are generally simple.

Brown Butter Sage Pecorino Pasta Recipe

Courtesy Cure Artisan Meat & Cheese Ingredients 2 large cloves garlic, coarsely chopped 7 to 8 large fresh sage leaves, torn into small pieces Butter Pinch Cracked hot redpepper Salt and freshly ground black pepper 1 pound spaghetti, tagliarini or linguine 1 cups pecorino Toscano, shredded Method 1. Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. 2. In a sauté pan (fry pan). Melt butter over medium heat, stir until butter slightly browns. Remove from heat add garlic, chillies (optional) and sage. 3. Drop pasta in boiling water. Cook, stirring often, until slightly underdone. See package for directions. 4. Drain pasta in colander and turn into pan with brown butter. Toss for a few minutes over low heat as butter mix clings to the pasta. Taste for seasoning. Serve onto plates and top with grated pecorino cheese.

Pét Nat By The Glass Jenny Garlini Head Office Maven Blue Grouse Estate Winery and Vineyard

“Every so often I feel the need to stretch my comfort zone and challenge myself to do something different I had not done in the past.” smiles winemaker Bailey Williamson “The 2019 Gamay Noir grapes called out to me in this way and who doesn’t love something with bubbles?” Pét Nat for “pétillant naturel” is a French term that roughly translates as “naturally sparkling”. To make this wine, our winemaker bottled our Gamay Noir Rosé prior to fully completing its fermentation. This allowed carbon dioxide to be produced by the continued fermentation of the natural sugars still found in the wine.

Unlike Champagne, Pét Nat is not normally disgorged, and may or may not be filtered on completion of fermentation. We decided to disgorge this vintage, because the sheer volume of lees in the bottle was more than we wanted. As the winemaker was having fun making this Pét Nat, we wanted to have fun with the label design. Paula Brunner designed a set of three labels for this collectible vintage. “ Our namesake in its most simplified form to depict the three family members who own the property. Each illustration is a peculiar but enticing personality to mimic how we curiously approach the art of wine, stewardship, and hospitality.” shares Paula Brunner “The labels were designed to embody the bright and creative flavours of our new Pét Nat, while staying true to our Blue Grouse image. We bring out a playful spirit to perfectly complement this effervescent rosé in all its glory. I was inspired creating something that would make us smile. These three grouse represent our family with three expressions that captured the moment in time when we realized that my dad bought a winery!”

Pét Nat is a bright, crisp wine with aromas of red summer fruit. On the palate look for raspberry, red currant, and mineral notes. Pair this wine with a charcuterie board supplemented with a combination of triple crème brie, goat and camembert cheeses. These bubbles will balance the saltiness in the cheese, nuts, and sausage and make for an excellent pre-dinner soiree. Our inspiration for the Pet Nat was in the spirt of experimentation and curiosity. Creating a new product, finding out how it would unfold, pros, cons and enjoying the final product. We are thrilled with the outcome and want to share it with our guests. Come and enjoy a flute of sparkling pink wine with a charcuterie board. It’s very limited, so come in and try it soon! Tasting Room is open Wednesday to Sundays from 11-5pm 2182 Lakeside Road, Duncan 250-743-3834.

DINE & SIP COWICHAN Ends March 6 The Duncan Cowichan Chamber of Commerce would like to thank everyone that participated in Dine & Sip Cowichan thus far. The positive feedback from the program has been abundant,

and we hope that everyone who participated found a new delicious spot to enjoy! Although Dine & Sip Cowichan wraps up on March 6th, many of the participating venues are offering a variety of other deals and some even offering their Dine & Sip menu throughout March. Find out about the participating venues at dinesipcowichan.ca.

Farm Table Inn SPRING BREAK FAMILY MEAL DEAL Make dinner planning easy this spring break with a Family Meal deal from the Farm Table Inn! These oven ready meals are available March 10 to 26th during the on-site Farm Store. This Family Meal Deal will feed up to 4 people and includes your choice of a Family sized Meat

or Vegetable Lasagna, Shephard’s Pie, or Mac and Cheese. A dessert choice of one pack of Nanaimo Bars, Lemon Squares or tub of Chocolate mousse One huge loaf of Sourdough bread with herbed butter. Only $49 plus taxes . Upgrade to a family sized Seafood lasagna for $59 plus taxes. These meals are all housemade and delicious! Pre-order by sending an email or calling us at 250-932-3205 info@farmtableinn.ca www.farmtableinn.ca 6755 Cowichan Lake Road, .Lake Cowichan. Farm Store hours Wednesdays to Saturdays from 10am to 5pm.

Tomato & Egg Stew

Recipe courtesy Grant Easterbrook, The Olive Station, 225 Canada Avenue, Downtown Duncan

Ingredients:

2 Tablespoons Garlic Infused Olive Oil 1 Tablespoons of Baklouti Green Chili Fused Olive Oil 1 large chopped yellow onion 2 chopped green peppers 1 cup of chopped mushrooms 1 chopped garlic clove 1 ½ teaspoon of ground cumin 1 teaspoon of sweet paprika Salt and pepper 6 Vine-ripe chopped tomatoes 1/2 cup tomato sauce 6 large eggs 1/4 cup chopped fresh parsley leaves

Directions Heat the Garlic Infused & Baklouti Olive Oil in a large cast iron skillet. Add the onions, mushrooms, green peppers, garlic, pinch of salt and pepper. Cook, stirring occasionally, until the vegetables have softened, about 5 minutes. Add the tomatoes, tomato sauce, cumin, and paprika. Cover and let simmer for about 15 minutes. Uncover and cook a bit longer to allow the mixture to reduce and thicken. Taste and adjust salt and seasoning to your liking. Using a wooden spoon, make 6 indentations, or “wells,” in the tomato mixture. Space them out so eggs will not clump together. Gently crack an egg into each indention. Reduce the heat, cover the skillet, and cook on low until the egg whites are set. Uncover and add the fresh parsley – you can drizzle more Baklouti Olive Oil for more kick. Serve hot/warm with some pita bread or basmati rice. You may also top with avocado and crumbled feta cheese for additional texture.

Number, Driver’s License, Medical Services Plan ▪ Social groups: elders, men and women, children & youth …and more!

Amanda Vance is the executive director of the Cowichan Intercultural Society

re you a newcomer here in Canada? Welcome! We want to meet you! The Cowichan Intercultural Society and Immigrant Welcome Center opened our doors in 1981. From then until today, we have always worked to create a safe space to visit, whether you are a child, an adult, from Syria, Brazil…anywhere! Our team is also from many different places, and we all bring our unique cultural and individual experiences to share with our

Are you a newcomer here in Canada? Welcome! We want to meet you! community. What can we do for you? We can help you with: ▪ Information on life in Canada and the Cowichan Valley

▪ English language instruction ▪ Childcare ▪ School district information, further education & trainings ▪ Citizenship and immigration ▪ Finding a job or working towards a better job or opening a business ▪ Getting a Social Insurance

One of the greatest benefits of joining our community is having the chance to meet like-minded people. This is true if you are from Canada as well! We welcome your participation in our programs as a volunteer who can assist newcomers with practicing English, drives, sponsorship, and more. If you would like to be a part of our community, please contact 250-748-3112 / office@cis-iwc.org for details about our programs and how you can be a part of what we do here! cowichanintercultural.org

VALLEY DENTAL CLINIC Dr. Gordon Levin DMD Dentist

NEW PATIENTS WELCOME

Celebrating Women International Women’s Day - the hate - the propaganda campaign of the violators.

Kendra Thomas Society Coordinator Warmland Women’s Support Services Society

f they could, what would the Women from our future, our older, wiser Selves say to us now about the journey of women’s healing? What would They most want us to know? We are so glad to be you. We are here because of all your hard work. We exist because of you. You have given Us Our life. Without you, We are nothing. Without you, We do not exist.

You shoveled back the toxic blame. You held them accountable, even when you were the only ones swimming upstream and the masses went with the current. You watched them make their choices. You never denied your own truth even when it countered the narrative.

Qualified Dentist American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine

# 101-321 Festubert St Duncan, British Columbia V9L 3T1 250-746-9697

reception@valleydentalclinic.ca

You spoke your truth when no one was listening. You wept in sorrow when no one held you.

How did you create Us (you wonder)? Your patience, your tenacity, your perseverance, your courage (that is understated), your wisdom, your defiance.

You screamed and raged against the tyranny.

Most of all, We are here because of your DEFIANCE!

And here We are, dear Sisters. The illusion is gone, and We live here, in peace and serenity in our Heart of Hearts.

You refused to be manipulated. You refused to hide. You confronted the lies

Please see our YouTube Video: “How We Made Our Dental Ofﬁce Completely Safe for Patients and Staff “ https://youtu.be/tMvTDHfTP10

You saw through the illusion until the illusion ceased to exist.

NOW ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS $15 OFF FIRST TREATMENT Book online: uniﬁed.Jane app.com Uniﬁedhealth.ca 250.532.6362

HAPPY INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY MARCH 8

“ After coming back from a hot vacation, this is the perfect go to mask to help my skin rejuvenate after being in the sun! I love the way it hydrates my skin and makes it so soft. It also helps lighten my melasma spots and makes them less noticeable.’ shares Verity, Soul Escape Esthetician

Stone Crop For Bees & Beauty

tone crop is a featured ingredient found in several Eminence Organics award-winning products, like Stone Crop Gel Wash, Stone Crop Hydrating Mist, Stone Crop Serum and Stone Crop Hydrating Gel. But what exactly is so amazing about this plant?

In the succulent family the colours range but are usually in the pastel family. The family of stonecrop succulents is large and encompasses low growing, trailing plants and tall spikedflowering plants and all plants have a rosette form and most produce a flower held above the base foliage. The leaves are thick and semi-glossy. Great for the environment, their flowers can remain on the plants well into early winter, adding dimension and interest to the succulents even as they dry. The flowers of stone crop perennials are rich with sweet nectar, attracting bees, moths and butterflies and growing stone crop is a wonderful way to nurture bees and butterflies for most of the year. Formulated for all skin types – including sensitive it aids in cleansing impurities without drying out the skin. 24

With so many uses and benefits, it’s no wonder stone crop abounds on the Eminence Certified Organic farm and has found its way into so many Eminence products.

“Stone Crop Hydrating Mist all the way! #1 thing I can not imagine life without, it is like a “breath of fresh air” for my skin, it is healing, calming,hydrating all in one.I use it to finish cleansing, to set foundation, it is great in sunny weather to moisturize, after gym or on air planewhile traveling!” Eva, Owner Soul Escape Spa I love the stone crop body lotion!! It’s the perfect solution for my very reactive, dry, freckled skin by keeping it hydrated and happy and the scent is so fresh! Kathy, Soul Escape Spa “Not only does the stone crop plant help reduce pigmentation and lighten the complexion, it also assists in regeneration, firming stressed skin, toning the epidermis, moisturizing, helping reduce signs of aging and calming sensitive skin.” Eminence Organics president, Boldijarre Koronczay Soul Escape Spa & Boutique, 2673 Beverly Street, Duncan www.soulescapespa.ca

HONOURING THE INNER & OUTER BEAUTY OF WOMEN

Vegan Synthetic-free Truly Natural

ild Coast Perfumery, a member of the French, International Perfume Foundation, is proudly a women owned and operated business located in Cowichan Bay. For the past 5 years we have been traditionally blending their gender neutral eau de perfumes with love and intention, using only pure, plant based, precious essential oils and absolutes from around the world, along with tinctures and oils from gently, sustainably harvested needles, leaves, flowers, buds, lichen, and moss from our Vancouver Island forests and their own garden. Our destination inspired perfumes, weave these natural ingredients to imbue their location’s essence. Wild Coast’s perfumer believes that wearing natural perfumes is definitely a great part of a self care ritual. Much like forest bathing their natural eau de perfumes also help to reconnect you with nature, providing a brief antidote to our stressed out lives as we all delve deeper

into the world of healthy, green, eco-friendly living. In 2021 Wild Coast was excited to learn that their Tribune Bay eau de perfume placed first in the Clean Beauty Awards and previously in 2019 their Salt Spring Island eau de perfume placed 2nd. This achievement helped bolster their popularity and customer base but their true success is due to their support of their Vancouver Island community, to whom they are truly very grateful. www.wildcoastperfumes.com @wildcoastperfumes Wild Coast Perfumery 1721 Cowichan Bay Rd., Cowichan Bay

Eminence Stone Crop Hydrating Facial $98

Monday-Friday 9-5pm Saturday, Sunday and Holidays – Closed 109-2673 Beverly St., Duncan (Thrifty’s Plaza) 250 748-2056 I www.soulescape.ca 25

HAPPY INTERNATIONAL WOMEN’S DAY MARCH 8

Warmland Dance Opens New Studio!

armland Dance exists as a place of belonging where aspiring and professional artists come to learn and express life through dance and creative process. We elevate dance instruction to cultivate high-level technique, nourish creativity, and inspire modern learners to realize their highest human potential.

Music Education Specialist VOICE & PIANO

Kathy Lassche 250.709.2541 www.mulberrylanemusic.com

Our Values Community: We recognize and support one another as a diverse group of human beings with individual strengths. We nurture human connection, a sense of warmth, pride, and belonging. Growth and Transformation: Human potential is realized at Warmland Dance. Opportunity, challenge and quality mentorship is offered to all learners in a safe environment fostering vulnerability, curiosity, creativity, striving, and strength of character. Freedom: Joy is fundamental to dance as an art form emphasizing “process versus product”. Connection to self, others and our surroundings provides opportunities for free expression.

Celebrate Spring with the birds & the bees at Little Bird. We have unique cards, art & gifts that are a joy to give & receive! 26

Structure and Technique: Careful attention and respect is paid to student readiness, dance foundations and classical technique. Unhurried learning processes, individualized goal-setting, clear assessment criteria and feedback provide an exceptional quality learning experience, measurable progression and notable student excellence. After more than two decades of formal training in Classical RAD Ballet, Jazz, Lyrical, Tap, and Musical Theatre, Owner Artistic Director Leah Burley’s career as a professional dancer, musical theater performer and awardwinning choreographer has taken her to many cities including Vancouver, Toronto and New York where she learned alongside some of the worlds most celebrated artists and mentors. She opened Warmland Dance 9 years ago with the support of the community. Warmland Dance is proud to annouce the opening of their newest studio in Mill Bay. South Island students will now have ballet, tap, jazz, contemporary and hip hop programs in the Shawnigan Lake-Mill Bay area. www.warmlanddance.ca

HONOURING THE INNER & OUTER BEAUTY OF WOMEN

SHOP WITH US Tuesday - Friday 11am - 4pm

The Miracle of Wool oul Comfort was born from a simple need.

Many years ago I was a young mother who needed slippers for her newborn daughter’s tiny feet. Slippers that would keep her feet warm and that would be durable. When I made that pair of infant slippers for my little girl I discovered that I had made what people were looking for. The slippers were so durable and attracted so much attention that I began making them as gifts for friends and family members, and then as items to sell. Soul Comfort Sheepskin was born. But my love of all things wool goes back earlier. I grew up in Quebec, the daughter of two Dutch parents who had survived WW2. They instilled in me the values of natural materials. In fact, I frequently heard them say that if it were not for wool the soldiers in WW2 would not have made it. The wool socks combatted foot rot and the underwear, sheepskin jackets and overalls for the aviators helped them survive in planes with no heat.

As a talented seamstress, my mother taught me how to sew and make patterns from an early age. This inspired me to start creating patterns for clothing and other items. At the age of nineteen I took a job with a furrier in Quebec where I learned how to work with high quality furs and discovered the soothing qualities of lamb’s wool. I decided that I wanted to create patterns for sheepskin and wool because of the many healing and comforting properties that it has. Today I have gained experience working with leather, sheepskin, sheep’s wool and hemp. I work with wool not just because it is a passion but because I believe that natural fibers are the way of the future for people and the planet. My vision is that the world returns to the use of natural fibers and that the healing benefits of wool reach those who need it most - such as patients in hospitals and people near the end of their life. Wool is incredibly comforting and healing, and I am honored to carry forward the tradition of working with this natural fiber. From humble origins Soul Comfort has evolved

Saturday 10am - 3pm

Imagine That! Artisans’ Designs 251 Craig St., Downtown Duncan

imaginethatartisans.com I 250-748-6776

Violet Reynolds, RMT Now practicing at CN Health & Wellness 715 Canada Avenue, Downtown Duncan Practice focuses on pain management, Somatics and Stress Reduction

To Make an Appointment 250 597-3959 or somayogaviolet@gmail.com 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 into making a huge variety of products to satisfy the specific needs of our customers.

Soul Comfort Sheepskin & Sheep Wool 190 4 Street, Duncan 250 737-1281

Goldstone Girls Amy Caine and Roby Clement

TEN SPRING MUST-HAVES INCLUDE: • Pleated Skirts

arch is the month of reinvigoration, when we see beauty all around us. We see hope and new life sprouting right out of the ground with the anticipation for all of those vibrant hues and colours.

• Wide Leg Denim and Trousers

Whether you’re doing some much needed Spring cleaning or reorganizing those closets and pantries, we all have the urge to refresh in the gift of a New Year. And that same energetic and vivacious attitude can extend to yourself and your wardrobe.

• Dresses worn with casual shoes and

We have all been stuck in doors for months wearing dark colours and endless layers, trying to keep warm in the coldest days of the year. We can use Spring as an invitation to celebrate and why not start with yourself and your wardrobe.

• Oversized sweatshirts and joggers

Begin by introducing the beautiful spring colours that you see in nature, in your clothing choices and accessories. I recommend going through your closet and seeing where you need to make some additions and subtractions. Get a few classic pieces for spring that you can wear with multiple items and keep in mind to try and get a few staples that you can layer to take you int the fall. This will make your money go further which we all like.

• Fitted Tops Blazers • Rompers and Jumpsuits

tennis shoes • Cardigans • Military and Denim Jackets

• Vintage Accessories

Fashion Advice From Your Local Goldstone Girl Amy Caine Clothing plays a big role in our lives. Remember to choose sustainable fashion first. You will be pleasantly surprised at the amazing treasures to be found that are often brand new or barely worn and your money goes so much farther than buying retail prices. Amy is co owner of Goldstone Boutique Quality Consignment here in the Cowichan Valley and of Twice As Nice Quality

Consignment Boutique. She has been friends with her partner Roby Clement, for over 26 years. They both share a interest in fashion and how to provide sustainable choices for a more conscientious lifestyle. Stop by to either location for any fashion advice needed, and to book an appointment for consignment drop off or information please contact us by phone, email or social media.

Goldstone Consignment Boutique 225 Canada Avenue, Downtown Duncan (250) 748-0251

How to Develop Your Personal Capsule Wardrobe

capsule wardrobe is a small collection of clothing pieces intentionally curated to effortlessly highlight your personal style. Most capsule followers find it assists them in wearing more of their clothing pieces, since everything works together. It also encourages one to buy fewer items with an emphasis on higher quality, which can be very helpful for those of us with a limited wardrobe budget. Most of the time, a capsule wardrobe limits itself to colours that work together, but this is not the ‘match-matchy’ look of the 80’s. Colours don’t necessarily ‘match’, they just work together harmoniously. For example, a ‘cool’ capsule might include black, grey, white, pink and navy. Whereas a ‘warm’ capsule might include camel, red, apricot, khaki and brown. Once colours have been USED GENTLY decided, it’s time to determine your go-to ‘uniform’ or ‘personal style formula’. We all have them. For example, your ‘uniform’ might be jeans, tee shirt and a scarf; Or highwaisted pants with a blousy top; Or maybe a tunic-length sweater with leggings. To determine your ’uniform,’ simply pull from your closet your three favorite outfits. No doubt you will find clues to your favourite looks and colours. Now look for pieces that work with these. Another approach to building a capsule is to work with a brand that sells capsule-like pieces. For example, our carefully chosen brands, including Blue Sky Clothing Company offer several items that are similar in length, style-line and fabric (usually

bamboo) in a variety of colors and patterns. These pieces are intentionally designed to mix and match together. Bamboo is a wonderful fabric type for a travel capsule as it packs well with minimal wrinkling. It has a beautiful drape, layers nicely and allows the body to breath. You may think limiting your colour and style choices with a capsule will foster boredom, but actually quite the opposite is true. If you change out your capsule quarterly, you will look forward to new colors and styles with each season. (it’s almost like getting a whole new wardrobe) This is CLOTHING BOUTIQUE not altogether different from the excitement you might feel when you see the first strawberries reappearing in the Spring. It’s another fun, creative, and sustainable way to embrace living with the seasons. Come in to Prudence on Mondays during March for free capsule wardrobe advice or to peruse our large assortment of Blue Sky apparel. Prudence Natural Beauty and Fashion, 155 Craig Street, Downtown Duncan

Looking for high end, current and classic apparel. Now booking for spring and summer appointments.

SUITE 4 - 225 CANADA AVE I DOWNTOWN DUNCAN (250) 748-0251

DeAnna Cross is a marketing consultant and ecostylist for Prudence Naturals. Instagram: @deannamcross

UKES MISBEHAVIN’ March 12 Duncan United Church Hall

kes Misbehavin’ are three distinct individuals who share a love of music and of jazz in particular. They like to have fun and share their enthusiasm The trio is made up of Bryon

Thompson on baritone ukulele, Clayton Long on tenor ukulele and Freda Eckstein on bass and tenor ukuleles. All three musicians

DOWNTOWN DUNCAN WALK INS WELCOME WOMEN I MEN I CHILDREN WASH CUT & BLOW DRY BLOW OUTS • STYLING COLOUR • HI LIGHTS BALAYAGE • PERMS

250 709-2195

261 Craig Street, Downtown Duncan

are lead vocalists with years of experience. Bryon Thompson, a retired teacher has a background in jazz, swing, folk and rock. He spends most of his time teaching music from home and plays a variety of instruments such as dobro, guitar, lap steel, mandolin and ukulele. Bryon is a gifted singer, recording artist, educator and songwriter. Freda Eckstein is a musician, singer, songwriter and recording artist who has been featured on CBC radio and

TV backing up such notables as Ken Hamm and Will Millar. Her main instrument is bass but she also plays mandolin and ukulele. Clayton Long started out as a mandolin player and performed in various bluegrass bands such as “Southern Exposure” “Marq Twang” and “One Track Mind”. Cowichan Folk Guild Coffeehouse, March 12 Duncan United Church Hall Doors at 7pm $5 / $10 www.cowichanfolkguild.ca

No more having to put overnight visitors on a blowup mattress on the living room floor and no more having my sewing machine sitting on the kitchen table – oh, joy! What are your priorities? Sure, it’s nice to have space for visitors, but ultimately, it’s your space and its primary layout needs to work for you. Do you like to cook? Be realistic. If you’re more of an eating Thoughts on Interior out and take-away kind of person, Design for the then you don’t need Successful Single a large kitchen with enormous Professional Woman appliances. Are you working o girl, I’m totally with from home right now? Do you! As with most you need an office, a craft things, there are pluses and room/sewing room/art studio? minuses to living the single These areas can all be created, life. Yes, you need to get a either from a separate room friend in to help you move the or an area within an existing sofa to a different spot, but room. Do you like to read? the only mess will be yours Do you like to watch TV? and you won’t have to check Think about creating relaxing in with anyone else to decide spaces where you can where that sofa should go! unwind.

Design Services & Colour Consultations Specializing in Bathrooms & Kitchens Aging in Place READY TO START YOUR DESIGN JOURNEY?

www.janenaresdesigns.com I 250 252-0501

I’ve been living on my own for a long time and spent 22 years living in a 700 square foot house in Toronto. I moved to Ladysmith in October 2019 to a 1,560 square foot house, what a palace! I went through a period of feeling guilty taking up such a large footprint for one person, but I got past that pretty quickly (!) and started to think about how I wanted to plan this space to fit my lifestyle.

What would your dream bathroom look like? Dream about it, visualize it. Even if you can’t have the whole thing right now, it’s possible to incorporate certain aspects. Change the lighting, perhaps add some wallpaper. Maybe a new vanity, countertop, and backsplash. Even new towels can make you feel pampered. Have you been dreaming of a primping station, a vanity? This could be in your bathroom or a corner of your bedroom. And talking of bedrooms, upgrading

your bedding is a great place to start. What colours feel restful to you? Could your bedroom do with a fresh coat of paint? What would make it feel like your special oasis? Give yourself constant reminders to smile by decorating with mementos and things that remind you of those people, places, and things that mean the most to you. That way, even if you live alone, you’ll always be surrounded by love.

You’ve worked hard and you deserve a home that works for you, feels comfortable and brings you joy. Give me a call and let’s talk about how I can help you achieve this. Jane Nares is an Interior Decorator based in Ladysmith. janenaresdesigns.com Jane Nares is an Interior Decorator based in Ladysmith. janenaresdesigns. com 250-252-0501

A Thriving Arts and Cultural Community

ROMANCING THE STONE WITH KRISTINA BOARDMAN Aquamaris Art Gallery

nown for her realistic style and exploration of endless diversity of wild beach stones, artist Kristina Boardman (Signature Status Senior Member Federation of Canadian Artists) adds a playful dimension to her favourite subjects in form of colourful mandala rocks nestled among natural stones like buried treasures. From her painted stones series we highlight the following paintings in our gallery: Paso Doble, much like the fast-paced dance known for its striking poses, balances the intricacy of stones as a key design feature positioned extremely off centre to accentuate the dramatic vibrancy of solid red background. The result is a work of art that plays

Feelin’ Groovy, Acrylic on Canvas, 18” x 72” by Kristina Boardman digital in situ

Paso Doble, Acrylic on Canvas, 24” x 48” by Kristina Boardman

on a theme of passion and restraint, combining powerful colours into a daring statement piece. In Passion, pops of bright red and delicate, lace-like designs painted in red on select dark grey stones infuse the entire painting with a touch of elegance, strategically punctuating the grey scale palette with the colour of passion. The silver-grey stones and pebbles with delicate markings get a bejewelled royal treatment with meditative purple mandala stones in Passion’s sister painting Luxe. By discretely adding some flower power to the mix, Kristina Boardman creates the sixties vibe in her earth-toned painting Feelin’ Groovy. This painting can be displayed both horizontally and

Passion, Acrylic on Canvas, 36” x 36” by Kristina Boardman

vertically. Aquamaris Art Gallery Upstairs in the historic Duncan Garage Building (Level entry from the back)

Suite 202 - 330 Duncan Street March Hours: Tuesday Saturday 10am-4:00pm (250) 597-2798 www.aquamarisartgallery.com

MARCH ARTS

FRAME YOUR FAMILY THIS SPRING! Excellent Frameworks

AQUAMARIS ART GALLERY The arrival of spring coincides with many new arrivals in our gallery. From small gift size items to large statement paintings, we are here to assist you with selecting the perfect pieces for your intended setting and occasion. March hours: Tuesday - Saturday 10 am - 4:00 pm Suite 202-330 Duncan St. Downtown Duncan 250-597-2798 aquamarisartgallery.com

k, so maybe this isn’t quite as devious as the title suggests, but custom framing your family photos, heirlooms, sports memorabilia, or art is a wonderful way to personalize your home and surround yourself with those you love. We recently had the opportunity to custom frame a shadowbox sports collection for a dedicated young hockey player (Hi Collin!), pictured to the right. This framing order included triple mats and multiple openings for the collection. Each shadowbox is individually designed to best complement your collection. Because each collection is so unique, bring your collection in and we will give you a complimentary design consultation that takes about twenty minutes. (Mention this article during the month of March and get 10% your shadowbox order.) We have framed just about everything – sports jerseys, wedding dresses, scarves, records, jewelry, and even guns and saws.

Family portraits can create a warm atmosphere in a personal space. Not everyone chooses to display portraits of family in shared spaces of their home, and home decor trends often suggest that family photos should be displayed on a shelf, not a wall in living rooms. Custom framing special portraits for bedroom is a great solution to this home decor tip! Visit us in downtown Duncan and enjoy original works of art by over 20 island artists as well as the E.J. Hughes Gallery during your visit! Excellent Frameworks Home of the EJ Hughes Gallery

EXCELLENT FRAMEWORKS & EJ HUGHES GALLERY

115 Kenneth Street 250-746-7112 www.excellentframeworks.ca www.ejhughes.ca

Excellent FrameWorks is Downtown Duncan’s premiere custom framing gallery. We feature reproductions by EJ Hughes as well as original art by BC Artists. 115 Kenneth St., downtown Duncan 250-746-7112 excellentframeworks.ca

VISIT THESE DOWNTOWN DUNCAN GALLERIES Excellent Frameworks Home of the EJ Hughes Gallery 115 Kenneth St, Duncan 250-746-7112 excellentframeworks.ca ejhughes.ca

Aquamaris Art Gallery in the historic Duncan Garage Building Suite 202 - 330 Duncan Street 250-597-2798 aquamarisartgallery.com 33

on our path in life by specifically understanding what takes us off track. It aligns you to those people, opportunities, and places that you are meant to experience.

Living Your Design Workshop A life-transforming journey. It will provide teaching that will further expand your understanding of what it is to live YOU as well as exploratory exercises to deepen your experiment. Course: 8 online Zoom sessions

for up to 2 hours in length Price: $350.00 Projector Types will receive a 20% Discount

Early Bird Discount

Course Time: SUNDAYS 10AM PST Dates: March 20, 27, April 3, 10, 17, 24, and May 1 & 8, 2022 All classes will be recorded and emailed to you afterwards for you to re-listen to. So if you miss a date, you will still have a class recording from that missed day.

Led by Catherine Harding–Simons, International Human Design School Certified Analyst, and Rhonda M. Cribbs, IHDS Certified Living Your Design Guide Recommended Readings: Human Design Overview or Foundation Reading by an IHDS Certified Professional Analyst Recommended Materials: Living Your Design Manual - available at: https://tinyurl.com/3f5czpwm

To register contact Rhonda loveyouareunique@gmail.com or Catherine crystalclearawakening@gmail.com

The Living Your Design Course leads you down an incredible unfolding path of self- discovery and knowledge over an 8 week time period. Once you have had a reading it can be of tremendous benefit to deepen your understanding of your own Strategy and Authority and the conditioning you have experienced. It can assist you with your own personal experimentation as well as clarify what it means for you to live who you were born to be and who you truly are.

Living Your Design Immersion Workshop

his workshop will be led by Catherine Harding–Simons, International Human Design School Certified Analyst, and Rhonda M. Cribbs, IHDS Certified Living Your Design Guide. The Living Your Design Immersion Workshop is a lifetransforming journey. It will provide teaching that will further expand your understanding of what it is to live YOU as well as exploratory exercises to deepen your experiment. Each week there will be experiments given to the students that will allow them to explore the mechanics of their Design. Each following week thereafter, will be a time to share what was seen from those experiences as a result. It can be a very insightful time to see the information come to life – in your experiment. It also is helpful to hear what others may have experienced as well in a safe and supportive space. This course is open to anyone who has had a Human Design Overview and/or Foundational Reading, this workshop teaches the most important foundational and transformational aspects of The Human Design System in an immersive way. The Human Design System empowers us to live according to our own true nature, and to know what is correct or not for us through our unique Strategy and Authority. We can use this information to keep ourselves

We hope that you will be able to join us for this life-changing workshop experience. Recommended Materials: Living Your Design Manual - available at: https://tinyurl.com/3f5czpwm Recommended Readings: Human Design Overview or Foundation Reading by an IHDS Certified Professional Analyst Course: 8 online Zoom sessions for up to 2 hours in length Price: $350.00 Projector Types will receive a 20% Discount Early Bird Discount Price by March 13th: $50 off Course Time: Sunday at 10AM PST/18:00 GMT Dates: March 20, 27, April 3, 10, 17, 24, and May 1 & 8, 2022 Note: All classes will be recorded and emailed to you afterwards for you to re-listen to. So if you miss a date, you will still have a class recording from that missed day. If you have any questions, please feel free to contact us Rhonda loveyouareunique@gmail.com Catherine: crystalclear awakening@gmail.com

challenging?

Colouring Outside of the Lines

Christy Greenwood is a Registered Therapeutic Counsellor & Expressive Arts Therapist christygreenwood.com

any people are afraid of creatively experimenting with art-making, free movement, singing, or making sound. For a lot of us, memories of being ridiculed or shamed in our younger years during imaginative exploration resulted in big emotions and a steep decline in creative risk-taking. An invitation to revisit creative expression can bring up the discomfort of these experiences and many folks will, understandably, draw a hard line at trying or even being curious. Over the years of facilitating therapeutic dance experiences, I encountered multitudes of people who are afraid to move in new ways. The colonized mindset of the inner critic stops people at the gate. There’s an idea that we need to be “good” at it according to the inner judge. Creative experimentation is not all about the outcome, though that is a part of it. It’s about the therapeutic experience itself and its potent impact on mental health, emotional growth, and nervous system regulation. How can we move in response to our own discomfort of experimenting or create while embracing what’s

Art-making, moving, or making sound can be a low-skill/highpresence practice of personal awareness. Trying something new and gently opening the locked gates of restricted expression can sometimes offer permission for hidden parts to come out. Our cultural conditioning locks us into patterns of minimally acceptable expression. Rewilding and decolonizing creativity are about opening the cage of our suppression to let more of ourselves out to be lived and experienced. It can be emotional and tender as we grow our tolerance to creative expansion and take a wander in the field of possibilities. A trauma-informed approach to holding space for this process requires consent & a slow pace for those who are ready to work through difficulty, digest unprocessed emotion or grow creatively. So much of our power is locked up in suppressed creative expression. When we gently nudge the inner guide to take the reigns and come out of hiding with compassionate care and a body-centered approach we allow space for the extraordinary to land. Ideas: • doodle on some paper while you breath, look, listen, feel, smell, taste, hear • move in response to how you feel • turn your thoughts into body shapes • hum, clap, drum on your chest in time with your heartbeat • shake your whole body for a few minutes (include your jaw) • sigh with sound to release stress • write a letter to yourself from your future self Our imagination is a therapeutic gift and carries incredible potential for healing. There is a creative genius in each one of us. How do you imagine you could expand your range of play as the spring showers you with growing light? 35

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Edible Landscapes Yard Maintenance & Organic Garden Care

Ado Grimwood-Adam Ado is an organic gardener, foodie and father of three living in the Cowichan Valley. He holds a Certiﬁcate in Permaculture from Langara College, and is passionate about sustainability, food security, climate change and organic gardening. Whether you need yard maintenance, or want to establish Edible Landscapes, Ado is a reliable, friendly and helpful person to work with.

Services oﬀered include: ~ Edible Landscapes ~ Yard Maintenance ~ Organic Garden Care

Call or text for a free on-site consultation!

250.815.5789

Thinking of Planting An Edible Landscape? Ado Can Help

pring is arriving and it is time to start working on your garden! March is the perfect time to start indoor seedlings and prepping your beds for outdoor planting. The vitality of your plants is highly dependent on the health of your soil, and Spring is the best time to nourish the soil so your plants get an extra early boost on the year ahead. Start by cleaning up debris, pruning, and edging your gardens nicely from winter water run off damage, then fertilize and top up the soil for Spring planting. Making a garden plan early in the year and taking monthly seasonal growth photos can really help with progress for the year ahead. From the climate crisis to the pandemic, many have come to realize our delicate place in nature. Here on Vancouver Island, we produce only a mere 6% of our food, the rest of which we need to import! While organic gardening may sound intimidating, you don’t need to live on ALR in order to grow food from your garden. Consider intercropping ornamental plants with edible or medicinal ones, adding

rosemary, thyme, hyssop, calendula, marigold, or fruit trees to your repertoire, with the added benefit that many double as pollinators! Growing a patch of kale or trellising some cucumbers can be a great way to cut down on grocery costs while also adding interest to your garden. The key with edible landscapes, yard maintenance and organic garden care is to start early and stay on top of it throughout the season. Locally produced, certified organic and naturally derived fertilizers like compost tea, staying on top of weeding, mulching to keep weeds down, and starting early are all part of the process in having a robust and beautiful organic food or flower garden. You can also consider consulting the farmer’s almanac www. almanac.com for a free local planting guide if you’re keen to garden on your own. Incase you’re feeling stretched for time or overwhelmed at the idea; consider contacting Sustainable Ado’s for a free consultation in planning your garden. Getting help may be closer and easier than you think! Ado GrimwoodAdam 250-815-5789

Planting For Pollinators Bernie Dinter, Horticulturist and owner of Dinter Nursery

healthy garden is one with diversity. A wide range of plants attracts many forms of wildlife, but the most important group is pollinating insects. Most plants require insect pollination to set seed to carry on the species or set fruit on edible plants. Edible plants are not just for us but for many forms of wildlife that pass through the garden, especially birds. Honey bees come to mind when we think of pollinating insects but they are an introduction from Europe

and require managed hives to thrive. We are fortunate to have many species of native pollinating insects such as the Blue Mason Bees and many species of Bumble Bees. These are the most important garden pollinators, which we hardly notice. Diversity of plants keep insects thriving and it can be achieved by having something blooming in every season, especially early spring and late fall when there are fewer native species blooming. Insects prefer smaller sized flowers rather than large flowers that we plant for colourful gardens. Plants with double blooms are beautiful but useless to insects as the anthers holding pollen have been bred out

of the flower. A good example of a February/March blooming favourite is Erica or winter blooming heather. Several plant families are favoured by insects. The rose family has a wide range of trees and shrubs, all with 5 petal saucer-like flowers. The aster family is one of the largest with the familiar daisy bloom being a large cluster of small single blooms preferred by insects. The carrot family is recognized by its large, round cluster of tiny flowers. The mint family that includes lavender is characterized by its tubular flowers that insects like climbing into. These families represent most of the common garden plants and will be enjoyed by both yourself and the little noticed insect world.

Pollinator Gardens Plan and Plant Now Many plants to choose from including: Cotoneaster California Lilac Salal (Native) Rock Cress - Aubretia Sweet William Candytuft Beebalm Sage Thyme Lavender Maple Trees Dogwoods Linden Trees and many more.. Serving local gardeners since 1973

www.dinternursery.ca 250 748-2023

5km South of Duncan on Hwy 1

Inspire The Next Generation of Growers

his month’s Spring equinox means longer daylight hours and warmer temperatures, and if you’re a gardener, that is the signal you’ve been waiting for: time to start seeding and planting!! Even if you’ve never watered a houseplant before, this is your chance at a new beginning. March is the perfect month to start planning your garden, and for the youngsters in your life, it is an incredible opportunity to introduce different ways to play, connect with nature,

and learn about food. Sowing seeds gives the whole family something to look forward to. And shopping for seeds is an exciting activity no matter what age! I am always surprised at how long a seed catalogue can keep a child (or adult, for that matter)

Providing the Cowichan Valley with Raw Cold Press 100% Organic Juices & Nut Mylks NEW Bone Broths with Medicinal Mushrooms! Available EVERY DAY at The Community Farm Store or WEEKLY online at cow-op.ca. Direct orders can be placed to hello@euphoricjuicery.com

occupied, if you give them permission to choose any one item they want… oh, decisions, decisions! To avoid shipping delays and keep your little ones excited throughout the planning process, try scrolling together through the seed and transplants offerings on Cowop.ca. There are lots of lovely, colourful pictures to look at, a wide range of species and varieties to choose from, and once you’ve confirmed an order, your seeds and plants will be delivered or ready for pick-up in less than a week! You’ll be teaching the kiddos by example to participate in a community economy, grow regionally adapted seeds, and support their small-farmin’ neighbours.

Suggestions of easy plants for children and beginning gardeners to grow, which can be directly sown or planted in the ground at the end of March. Almost everything else can be seeded outside in late April, after the risk of frost has passed. (the following are available on Cow-op.ca): - Purple Snow Peas - Sugar Snap Peas - Orca beans (AKA ‘Calypso’ beans, kids will love the black and white seeds, they really do look like tiny Orca whales) - Fava/ Broad beans - Rosemary or sage plants Laura is a market gardener, gardening teacher, and an active member of Cow-op.

first ever outdoor 13th annual Seedy Saturday on March 12th at Charles Hoey Park (Canada Ave.) from 10am-3pm.

Seedy Saturday is Coming!

s winter slowly melts away, the feelings of growth begin to spring up. With spring approaching comes the excitement of garden planning! This year will be a happy return of an in-person, outdoor Duncan Seedy Saturday. Cowichan Green Community will be hosting its

around!

Join us for a seedfilled day in the park with a wide selection of local vendors and community organizations! Come learn about what’s growing in the Cowichan region and about seed sovereignty. There will also be a kids activity tent and live music for you to enjoy. A key highlight will be a community seed swap, so feel free to bring labeled seeds with you, but if you don’t have any there will be lots to go

This year’s event will be a welcomed one after being strictly virtual last year! There are 30 vendors anticipated, including food and popcorn, to be attending that can’t wait to welcome all of

you. Since this is our first inperson event in two years, CGC members can head over to the Farm Hub table and receive a free plant! If you are not a member please go to https:// cowichangreencommunity. org/become-a-cgc-member/ to be eligible for member-only benefits.

REIKI WELLNESS 250-743-8122 Debbie Shkuratoﬀ Reiki Master-Teacher-All Levels Usui-Karuna-Komyo-Seichim

Rosina Rodighiero Food Hub JCP Participant and Event Coordinator Cowichan Green Community

SARA TILLIE ACUPUNCTURE 250-812-9813 Sara Tillie Registered Acupuncturist Traditional Chinese Medicine

Reiki Therapy & Classes - Detox Foot Spas Acupuncture - Amethyst Mat - YL Essential Oils Daytime • Evening •Weekend • By Appointment Only #13- Upper Level • Valleyview Centre • Cobble Hill www.reikiwellness.ca • reiki-wellness@shaw.ca

How does adding lime affect soil acidity? Lime is pulverized limestone, which is calcium carbonate (CaCO3). When moist, CaCO3 ionizes into Ca2+ and CO32-. The calcium ions bind to soil constituents, while the carbonate ion reacts with the hydrogen ions to form water and carbon dioxide, thus removing the acidity-causing H+ from the soil.

Cut Broom in Bloom

The Dirt on Lime

roombusters Society is presenting to North Cowichan’s council on March 2, in advance of broombusting season, April-May. The talk’s emphasis is fire safety and preserving biodiversity. High oil content and naturally dry branches of broom make it an extreme fire hazard, increasing the dangers of Urban Interface Fires. So, removing strips of broom along local roads is important for community safety. Also, a recent study by ISCBC points to Scotch broom as the invasive species that does the greatest harm to native species at risk in BC. Clear the broom near your home! Check www.broombusters.org for ideas and connection.

Tamara Dinter, Dinter Nursery General Manager and Soil Enthusiast

here is a lot of buzz about lime this time of year, but what is lime exactly, and what does it have to do with soil acidity? Soil acidity comes back to the life-giving molecule of water. When a molecule of water breaks up or ionizes, it splits into a positively charged hydrogen ion (H+) and a negatively charged hydroxyl ion (OH-). When a solution of water and soil has more hydrogen ions than hydroxyl ions, it is said to be acid. When more hydroxyl ions are present, it is alkaline. The pH scale used to express the relative numbers of hydrogen and hydroxyl ions. Neutral is 7, numbers below that are

acid and higher numbers are alkaline. Why does soil acidity matter to plants? Soil acidity directly affects plant nutrient uptake. A pH of 6.5-6.8 is ideal for most garden plants, because nutrient availability is highest in that range, heavy metals are less available, and it is the preferred pH for soil microorganisms. In our climate, heavy winter precipitation showers our soils with H+, which displaces positively-charged nutrient cations calcium (Ca2+), potassium (K+), and magnesium (Mg2+) in minerals and compounds. These cations then wash away in the rain, which in turn increases soil acidity. Hydrogen ions are also released by plant roots as part of cation exchange in nutrient uptake.

Lime may be added to soil at any time. For best results, apply lime in the fall so the winter rains can ionize the CaCO3 and the neutralizing reactions have time to take place. Dolomite lime contains magnesium in addition to calcium. However, Dolomite lime should be applied only every second or third year, because too much magnesium creates soil compaction and displaces other critical nutrients plants require. Plants that thrive in (or at least tolerate) more acidic soil include firs, cedars, pines, heathers, rhododendrons, blueberries, lilies, potatoes, tomatoes and rhubarb. Conversely, plants that prefer alkaline conditions, and would benefit the most from the regular addition of lime, include lilacs, spireas, forsythias, and in the vegetable garden, brassicas (cabbage, broccoli, kale), beets, chard, spinach and onions.

Garden Volunteers Needed – Providence Farm

Do you wish to be outdoors, enjoying the sunshine? Love gardening? Have a few hours to spare? How about adopting one of our garden beds to care for? Providence Farms wants you! Providence Farm’s gardens are a place of healing, especially for our participants who join us daily for Nature Based Therapy.

Providence Farm Garden Volunteers Call Out

ardening has always been a part of Providence Farm history from the mid1800 to present day. At the farm, we have many dedicated garden areas with gardens becoming the foundation of horticultural, nature based therapy programs in 1979. We grow a variety of our own organic produce, raise plants in the greenhouse and have numerous ornamental flower garden beds through-out the farm. A main focal point for many events held at the farm is the St. Ann’s Garden, where you’ll find our ‘Heritage Apple Tree’ orchard (planted in late 1800), a rose garden and many flowering beds that surrounds a centrally located gazebo.

Garden Volunteers Needed – Providence Farm Do you wish to be outdoors, enjoying the sunshine? Love gardening? Have a few hours to spare? How about adopting one of our garden beds to care for? Providence Farms wants you! Providence Farm’s gardens are a place of healing, especially for our participants who join us daily for Nature Based Therapy.

If you are interested in volunteering, we would love to hear from you. email CommunityRelations@providence.bc.ca

1843 Tzouhalem Rd, Duncan I Open Daily 9am - 3pm

LOOKING FOR MICROGREENS?

We grow plenty of them!

A&S MICROGREENS t.250-710-6135 www.asmicrogreens.com

If you are interested in volunteering, we would love to hear from you. email CommunityRelations@ providence.bc.ca Providence Farm, 1843 Tzouhalem Rd, Duncan

5410 Trans Canada Hwy 250.748.817 1

View Sales Flyers at www.buckerfields.ca 41

Public Overwhelmingly Supports Conservation In Municipal Forest Reserve By Larry Pynn

he public has spoken. With a loud and clear voice, citizens are calling for ecological values to prevail over logging in North Cowichan’s 5,000-hectare Municipal Forest Reserve. More than three years after citizens rose up against the advance of clearcutting in the forest reserve — also known as the Six Mountains — the first results of a public consultation process have been released. And they send a decisive message to council. Lees & Associates, the consultants hired by the municipality to conduct the public engagement, have released a report that summarizes interviews with 19 stakeholders, 1,145 responses to an on-line survey, and the views of 110 participants at four on-line workshops. “There was agreement that the MFR is a valued community asset, and many are in favour of an approach to forest management that shifts the primary management focus of the MFR toward the ecological

and recreational benefits,” says the Lees & Associates report. A total of 594 North Cowichan residents and 407 nonresidents, including 101 from Duncan, answered the on-line survey. Non-residents also expressed strong support for ecology, recreation, and viewscapes. “While a wide diversity of themes and perspectives were shared…most participants felt that ecological values, rather than economic values, should hold the highest priority for the future management of the MFR. Recreational benefits were also highly valued,” the report found. Logging-related revenue and jobs do not even rank within the top-10 list of what citizens value most about the forest reserve. The top four considerations cited by North Cowichan residents as being “extremely” or “moderately” important are water quality, water supply protection, recreation, and habitat and ecology. Continued on page 44

Continued from page 43

Next in importance: views and visual quality followed by climate change benefits, air quality, mature/old forests, jobs related to tourism and recreation, and cultural/spiritual use of the forests. Forest reserve revenue to the municipality ranked 12th out of 14 choices, just above forestry jobs. Other “key takeaways” outlined in the report:

— “The importance of protecting and enhancing the ecological benefits of the MFR was a strong theme. Many expressed concern with the health of the forest, and indicated that the ecosystem services provided by the forest outweigh the potential revenue from harvesting.” — “Many expressed that the MFR is a valued recreational asset and are in favour of forest management that supports hiking, biking, walking, ATVing, and horseback riding.

There was also significant support for recreation as it relates to tourism.” — “Many community members expressed concern about harvesting practices, particularly the impact of clear cutting. Some respondents feel that cut blocks negatively impact views on the mountains, recreational experiences, and the ecological health of the forest.” — “Some participants are supportive of the current management of the MFR. Of those in favour of harvesting, many are supportive of a shift towards eco-forestry and more sustainable forms of harvesting.” — “Concern about climate change, and the impacts of wildfires, flooding and extreme weather emerged as a key theme. Many expressed the importance of managing the forest to increase resiliency to climate change.” — “We also heard a wide range of perspectives on the cultural significance of the MFR. Many noted the importance of the forest for recreation, access to nature, health and well-being as well as education. Some respondents also expressed the importance of consulting the Quw’utsun Nation on the future management of the MFR.” Shortly after the fall 2018 election, hundreds of citizens attended council to voice their concerns about logging in the forest reserve, and hundreds more attended a forest information session sponsored by Where Do We Stand (wheredowestand.ca) at the Cowichan Performing Arts Centre. In response, Council placed a moratorium on new logging pending the consultation

process. First Nations are the subject of a parallel consultation which has been stalled for several months now. A memorandum of understanding signed between the municipality and First Nations last August is not intended to have any legally binding effect and “does not create any legally enforceable rights or obligations of either of the Parties.” It may be terminated by either Party with 14 days’ notice. So, what’s the next step in the public consultation? According to the Lees & Associates report, the UBC Partnership Group (associated with the faculty of forestry) will be developing forest management options to bring to the public in spring of this year. The public’s wishes as expressed in the first round of consultation should be reflected in those scenarios, along with technical expertise around forest management, ecology, and carbon offset projects. Also this spring, Lees & Associates will build upon the feedback gathered in the first round of the engagement and focus on identifying the community’s preferred options for forest management. This will include another online survey, phone survey, and public workshops. Sign up for project updates and information on the next round of engagement at northcowichan. ca/forestry. The full Lees & Associates report: https://bit.ly/34dkXCX. Visit sixmountains.ca for more information on the Municipal Forest Reserve.

Chris Ronald with John Macarthur Ellis FOLK • ROOTS • AMERICANA

ince emigrating from his native England in 2002, Chris Ronald has earned a place as one of Canada’s finest singer-songwriters creating and performing Contemporary Folk music. Ronald’s stand-out signature sound is steeped in his British background, poetic lyrics, and a buttery fusion of Roots and Americana music. Ronald first got hooked on songwriting at age 15 when he put to music a poem he wrote in high school, but he only started to go public after he moved to Vancouver in his thirties and self-produced his first albums so he had CDs to sell at the intimate gigs he was playing in and around the city. One of these early works caught the attention of The Georgia Straight who praised Ronald’s songwriting and “beautifully clear tenor voice” and wondered “where his obvious talent has been hiding for so long.”

Encouraged, Ronald decided to go all in on his next project and hired ace producer and multi-instrumentalist John MacArthur Ellis to work on his first full-production studio album. The resulting Timeline (2014) album catapulted Ronald to a new level in his career with, among other accolades, a nomination for “Songwriter of the Year” at the 2014 Canadian Folk Music Awards. Shortly afterward, Ronald was signed to esteemed Canadian folk label Borealis Records to release Fragments (2017) followed by Light & Dark (2021). Both albums achieved top 10 on the FAI Folk Radio chart.

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

250-732-7735 I chopsdrumschool@gmail.com

March 26 Chris Ronald with John MacArthur Ellis Live in The Chapel at Providence Farm 7pm doors $20/$25 www.cowichanfolkguild.ca

diabetic adolescents!

SHUT THE FRIDGE DOOR!

Type 2 Diabetes is especially dangerous in kids, and hard to treat. It comes on silently, and then can suddenly overwhelm the child with blood vessel disease, brain and kidney injury, seizures, coma and even death. Increased birth defects occur in babies born to young women with Type II diabetes.

Dr Bill Nielsen has been practising in Duncan for thirty years

constant thirst for glory and renown marks the noble souls of epic heroes like Achilles and Odysseus, and even, in a way, Captain Kirk. Those adventurers willingly put their bodies at great risk in pursuit of eternal fame. Ironically, young cyberspace warriors, gamers and other screen hounds are also in danger, though they may never leave the comfortable couches in their parents’ homes. Their peril does not arise from the armed cyber foes they magically vanquish or the dubious content of the Internet underworld. These kids are stalked and eventually consumed by a more insidious menace. Fast is fun, but a need for instant gratification is deadly. Fast food, fast computers and fast delivery all figure in the epidemic of childhood obesity and Diabetes. Once Adolescent Type 2 Diabetes is diagnosed, there’s no going back – the damage is done. Here’s how that all works -

Adolescent Diabetes Car rides replace exercise when walking would be feasible, if slightly slower. No argument there. Fast computers and elaborate computer games are highly addictive. The anticipation and flashing payoffs ensnare an adolescent’s neural network with a web woven from that steady drip of dopamine – irresistible to developing brains. Put a humming fridge nearby and you know who will visit it. If there is pop, juice or carbs in the fridge, you also know where they will end up – somebody’s tummy. Minimal nutrition, maximal weight gain. And while the kids on the couch are on their screens, what are they not doing? There is a definite lack of creative free play, no outdoor adventures, no competitive sports or physical

No child ever suffered from four hours of screen time a week. On the other hand, exercise. Children need play desperately, from toes to nose, no child doesn’t suffer (painlessly at first) from and lots of friends in the real world, outside of their Internet four hours of screen time a day. Diet and exercise are silos. even more important to halt the insidious progression to According to neuroscientists, obesity, diabetes, impaired brain strain from too much brain growth and vascular screen time delays release of disease. These conditions are melatonin. Inactivity thwarts nearly impossible to reverse. physical fatigue and the resulting restless sleep patterns You have to prevent them. Set the right example. Remember, lead to poorer body and brain kids never do what you say. function. Active kids get skinny, strong and street smart. They do what you do! So stop the pop and can the empty Sedentary kids with access to carbs. Play outside a lot, and fast food morph into rounder, limit screen time to at most sadder and less energetic one hour a day and never specimens. before bedtime. Do yourselves and your kids a favour – stay We now see the results from thirsty my friends. And a little a generation of screen soup bit hungry, too. and take-out suppers - an epidemic of childhood obesity Do you have a health question and a 25% increase in Type for Dr. Nielsen? Contact him 2 diabetes. The average age directly at: billnielsen123@ at diagnosis in Canada is 13 icloud.com years old and closer to 11 years old in First Nations

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Glutathione “The Master Antioxidant” Good health to you! Tina Foster, RHN Essential Remedies

lutathione is a very important nutritional compound produced naturally by the liver from amino acids cysteine, glutamine, and glycine. It is vital for protecting cellular health and is the top antioxidant required by our body so that it can detoxify. Inflammation, lung irritation, toxin exposure in environment, these all reduce glutathione levels as it is used to remove harmful substances from the body. Glutathione is the only key antioxidant that can act on the inside of cell membranes. Thus, it is essential for protecting our DNA from oxidative damage by free radicals. Healthy DNA replication is key for longevity. Glutathione can also recycle all of the other antioxidants! And so it really is the ‘master’.

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Glutathione can quickly get depleted in the body and when this occurs, it is difficult to fight against the harmful free radicals and the damage done- aging and disease result. This weakens the ability for the body to protect itself from cancer, infections, and toxins. Everyone needs more glutathione, especially immune systems that are compromised. Useful for: *Aging Defense *Antioxidant Protection *Detoxification *Energy Production *Immune System fortification *Fatty liver disease(alcoholic and non-alcoholic) *Psoriasis relief *Improving Insulin resistance and diabetes *Peripheral artery disease,

motility *Reduces Parkinson’s symptoms *Helps fight autoimmune diseases *Oxidative damage in autism *Reduce respiratory disease *Elderly *Athletes *Illness *Infertile males *IBD *Heavy drinkers and tylenol abusers *Vegetarians or insufficient protein Now available in the incredible Liposomal form, and as such is more stable, absorbable, and bioavailable, easily reaching all cells. Liposomal technology entails the nutrient used which is put into micro-particles and then bound to phosphatidylcholine, a fat-soluble medium and a compound of all cell membranes. And so the nutrient, glutathione, is carried directly into the cell, bypassing the complicated digestive process. Along with a top notch supplement, try to include some foods sources in your diet. Such as- cruciferous vegetables and any other sulfur-rich foods (garlic and onion), nuts and seeds like almonds, avocados, carrots, okra, spinach, beets, papaya and mango and other vitamin C rich foods. Essential Remedies 141 Craig St, Downtown Duncan

Spiritual Upliftment and Conversation

had a wonderful conversation recently with two young Muslim fellows on topics that I have not often discussed with new friends. We spoke freely for more than an hour about God our creator, our spiritual paths, religious upbringing and how we express our spiritual beliefs in our daily lives. No one was trying to convince the other of the superiority of their religion. Rather, we were open-minded, humble and listened intently to what the other had to share. It was a most uplifting and heartwarming exploration. I often long for the opportunity to converse comfortably with friends and family about religion. I understand why this is a topic many wish to steer away from as many people have experienced abuse, oppression and violence via those who they believed to be trustworthy but who selfishly went about contorting and perverting the religious texts to justify their beliefs and appalling actions. Even in less severe situations some experience how religious belief and interpretation can become a point of contention within families and communities. I feel that many actions taken based on religious belief contradict the broader purpose of the religion itself and add to the confusion and misunderstanding widely held today of the true purpose of religion. In his book, The Promulgation of Universal

Peace, Abdu’l-Baha, the son of Baha’u’llah (Founder of the Baha’i Faith) and designated interpreter of his father’s writings says… “The strife between religions, nations and races arises from misunderstanding. If we investigate the religions to discover the principles underlying their foundations, we will find they agree; for the fundamental reality of them is one and not multiple. By this means the religionists of the world will reach their point of unity and reconciliation. They will ascertain the truth that the purpose of religions is the acquisition of praiseworthy virtues, the betterment of morals, the spiritual development of mankind, the real life and divine bestowals. All the Prophets have been the promoters of these principles; none of Them has been the promoter of corruption, vice or evil.” When I explained to my new friends my humble understanding of religion and its purpose in our lives, it was refreshing to find an attentive ear and we quickly found common ground upon which to build unity of thought. When this unity of thought arose in our conversation, I was hit with the sense that we had uncovered a common truth, something very important to each of us that we shared. From this wonderful experience, I am committed to seeking out more uplifting conversations in the hopes of establishing more friendships and building more shared truth. Submitted by Tim Mock

Join us in oﬀering prayers for the healing and upliftment of the world, and conversation on topics that support the establishment of unity and peace. We are three local Baha’i friends who meet on Zoom from 7:15 to 8:30 on the 2nd and 4th Wednesdays of the month.

All are invited and welcome, whatever your spiritual path. Please call us for details and link: Tim/Laurice Mock, Lee Masters – (250) 748-2585

March Topics

March 9: Being a Protagonist for Social Change Part 1 March 23: Being a Protagonist for Social Change Part 2

So powerful is the light of unity that it can illuminate the whole earth. Baháʼu’lláh 49

HUMAN DESIGN SYSTEM

Tending to the Heart

• Would you like to discover and embrace your true nature? • Spring into a new awareness of your inner growth? Cathy has been studying and living her design for 10 years. Certiﬁed Professional Human Design Analyst I invite you to be in touch with any questions, lets chat about HD! crystalclearawakening@gmail.com

www.crystalclearawakening.com 50

David McCauley lives in the Cowichan Valley. He is the lead healing facilitator at Saoirses Project.

t was on the football field that stood between our two neighbouring parishes that I first met Sean, a deep-blue eyed kid. I was attracted to him in some eight-year-old way, perhaps it was his hair, his smile, or the Pearl Jam t-shirt he wore to training on that day. We connected with the innocence and inhibition of two children, with the pure joy of childish play. It was always this way when we saw one another, a cheeky smile then a dash for the swing or the football. We traded birthday invitations. Years passed and we both arrived at the same high school. Sean was a beacon among the other boys in an all-boys Catholic school. He was a daring sort of lad. Your mother would worry about you getting into trouble with the principle in his company, yet insist you invite him over for dinner time and again for his politeness and radiance. Sean wore his defiance on his sleeve, seeking truth with a passion bordering on rebellion. Yet he had the knack of seeing the best quality of a person and

bringing it forward. He was a number 1 encourager, which was no mean feat in inner city Ireland where there was a sense of cutting harshness. U2’s Bono once said that “In America, you look at the guy that lives in the mansion on the hill, and you think, one day, if I work hard, I could live in that mansion. In Ireland, people look up at the guy in the mansion on the hill and go, one day, I’m going to get that bastard.” Despite this harshness Sean always believed more was possible. He went on to use words in his craft, becoming a journalist with a national broadsheet newspaper, sharing truths with the world. Our life paths diverged as we both left Ireland but whenever we met the same smile, spark of energy and rekindling would occur, the pure connection of childhood never left us. Decades later I received a call from home - Sean had passed away. Everything had become too difficult and he chose to leave this life. My world fell apart in an unexpected way. My logical mind understood I had a family and responsibilities to keep up with, yet the floor

of my Heart figuratively fell from underneath me. Grief had taken over and it took a different shape than anything I’d experienced before. I found myself in a wordless void. A vanishing space where my Heart once lay, and I felt powerless to avoid it. I was lost without any assurance that anything or anyone would come to my rescue. This unknowingness was the hardest part. It was not expected, I was not prepared, can one ever be?

I will never see Sean again in this lifetime, but his memory lives on in me through a deeper openness that I keep coming back to. Grief is only one voice of the heart which yearns to be heard. For some the day will come when a broken heart gives the invitation to listen. It offers to take the weight, take down your arms of anger, blame and perpetual fixing. It whispers a soft melody, echoing stay open, stay open, stay open.

After the funeral I tried to carry on, I needed to show up to work, care for my son, be there for my wife, look after the animals, chores, bills, responsibilities. But it became clear that this was not going to work, at least not for long. There was an ancient void within calling me and the more I resisted the more my life would literally fall apart on the outside. My relationships and work life were suffering.

One simple practice I use is to sit quietly for a few minutes in the morning and turn inward asking the questions, “how are you today heart?” “What do you need today?” and listen. I may hear a voice, or see an image, or just have a sense. There may be painful emotions or feelings of pure joy, but I must be open to all to feel any. I remember Helen Keller’s words, “The best and the most beautiful things in the world cannot be seen or even heard, they must be felt with the heart.” For this is my prayer when this day comes, keep your heart open.

I chose to turn inwards and listen. I soon learned that grief was the voice of my heart, and it told me to feel. It taught me how to mourn and sometimes wail. There is a movement inside the body coming straight from the heart that is begging for stillness to emerge. I’ve come to know this through years of clinical work. In a healing space I listen, I guide a meditation, and then follow with hands on work where movement arises, and stillness may occur. The body knows how to open the heart.

SaoirsesProject

Individualised Holistic Healing Modalities Functional Medicine Practitioner, Dip. Craniosacral Therapy, BSc. Physiotherapy

• Individualised laboratory testing and analysis • Clear, guided individualised health programs • In-person, online or hybrid support oﬀered Reoccuring injuries/ Chronic pain •Digestive health •Low energy •Anxiety/depression •Trauma recovery •Concussion/ head injuries

David McCauley (778) 5877996 I SaoirsesProject@gmail.com www.SaoirsesProject.com

Traditional Chinese Exercise for Health All Classes in the Cowichan Valley *unless stated Wild Goose Qigong (Chi Gong) Gentle movement • Calms your mind • Heals internal organs • Develops ﬂexibility Mondays 9 -10 am Tuesdays 6 pm - 7 pm (combined Qigong and Chun Yuen) Wednesdays 10-11:15 am Fridays 10-11:15 am (Victoria)*

Northern Shaolin Chun Yuen Quan

Dynamic movement • Improves posture • Increases energy • Strengthens bones Tuesdays 6 pm - 7 pm (combined Qigong and Chun Yuen)* Wednesdays 9 am - 10 am

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www.WildGooseQigongCentre.com 51

FREYA-SOPHIA WALDORF STORE LOCATED IN THE SOL CENTRE, 3, 5380 HWY. 1 ~ DUNCAN

WARMTH ~ WONDER ~ WISDOM

Happy Spring, Happy Easter: Our store is loaded up with beautiful toys, activities and craft ideas for you and the family to do this spring and to celebrate Easter. We have a beautiful selection of new hand-puppets (bunnies, chicks, ducks!) and all the supplies for Ukrainian Egg decorating as well as lovely beeswax, paints, toys, games, silks and much more!

Natural Childhood & Steiner Book Centre Follow us

Located in the Sol Centre: 3, 5380 Hwy. 1 Duncan, BC Open 10am—5pm Monday —Saturday Closed Sunday & Stat Holidays

Please note: reduced hours of operation for summer will start on June 20th, 2022

Here at the Freya-Sophia Waldorf store we are inspired by the work of Rudolf Steiner and committed to meeting the soul needs of our children and our community by providing books, toys, supplies, resources, classes, workshops, instruction, support and conversation to those who visit us. We are here to help and to support. We are happy to accommodate your mail orders and inquiries by phone or email info@freyasophiawaldorfstore.ca 52

The Second Seven Years of Childhood

n my talk “The Second Seven Years,” I’ll be exploring the ages between 7 and 14 and the ways we can help navigate these years at home as well as how children in this stage are supported by the Waldorf curriculum. As children grow, they naturally follow stages such as exploring their world more independently, or questioning ideas they had once held, or showing fears they’d never had before or becoming very passionate or single-minded on one topic or person! Understanding these childhood stages can help a family support their child between the ages of 7 and 14. Some of my most distinct memories of parenting my children are the times when they perplexed me the most and I was completely taken aback by their words or actions. Once my six-year-old announced he was going to move to his best friend’s home, where they had a cute dog. I felt hurt that he wanted to leave us and assumed that he didn’t value our home. My adult thinking was not helpful and at the time I was unable to see that his actions were a very natural streak of independence that can happen at this age. At about age nine, while on the paper route, his brother took up a deep interest in real estate and began to collect the little brochures in the free newspaper boxes. For some reason I felt triggered by this and couldn’t get behind his new interest. Looking back, I now know that they were each expressing natural phases of childhood, such as independence and curiosity about how the world works. In Waldorf Education, based on the science and philosophy of Rudolf Steiner, we can gain a lot of perspective by looking at the seven-year cycles of childhood. Each phase of childhood has characteristics that

are part and parcel of the child’s developmental growth. The years between 7 and 14, or grades one to eight, present universal trends that can be nourished and met by having a deeper understanding of the classic “ups and downs” during this time. In these years children live in their feelings and imagination, and in Waldorf schools we strive to understand their development and support it through pedagogy. Lisa Hitch is grateful to be teaching and learning on traditional Hul’q’umi’num territory in the Quw’utsun Valley. She holds a Bachelor of Education, a BFA in Theatre Performance, and attained her Waldorf Teacher Certification from the West Coast Institute for Studies in Anthroposophy. In 2018, she was awarded the Prime Minister’s Award for Teaching Excellence in STEM, and is currently the BC Regional Representative to the Association of Waldorf Schools of North America. She has been a teacher in many different environments since 1990, and has been a class teacher at Sunrise Waldorf School since 2010. She is on a sabbatical year from class teaching, but continues to tutor students and mentor teachers. Originally from Victoria, Lisa began her Waldorf journey when her own children – now grown – started their schooling at Washington Waldorf School in Washington DC. The Second Seven Years: A Deeper look into the child development with Waldorf Educator Lisa Hitch March 8 7-8:30pm For zoom link contact swpa@ sunrisewaldorfschool.org

the second 7 Years

March 8th Tuesday evening

7-8.30 pm

2148 Lakeside Road, Duncan sunrisewaldorfschool.org 53

energy stores that are depleted during the stress response. But they inadvertently contribute to the buildup of fat tissue and to weight gain.” Would it be reasonable to expect a child in this state of mind to be able to learn or retain what is taught?

Kate Woodland, BEd, BC Certified Teacher Turning the Page Reading Instruction readnow180@gmail. com

hen we tend the delicate plants and flowers in our gardens, the tender shoots just waiting to burst forth to delight our world view, we can marvel at a plant’s adaptability. Yet during times of extreme heat, drought, or even flooding, it is most often the health of the plants themselves that make the difference in their strength and resilience. Their strong root system (family), the health of the soil biome (nutrition and sleep), and the interplay between species in their environment (community), all increase the plant’s chance of not only surviving, but of also thriving. The same principles apply to a child’s health, ability to learn, and well being. Today, more and more children are being labelled learning disabled, anxious, depressed, ADD, or ADHD. There are a multitude of reasons that children have difficulty staying focused, including various retained infant reflexes and ever increasing amounts of stress to their sensory systems from sources such as wifi, extended screen time and environmental toxins. Trauma adds yet another layer to their already overtaxed sympathetic nervous systems (SNS), and

Growing Healthy Children in Times of Stress the symptoms of trauma can mimic those of ADHD. Symptoms such as trouble concentrating, difficulty learning, being easily distracted, disorganized, and not sleeping well are shared by children with ADHD or childhood traumatic stress. As mentioned by Nicole Brown in ADDitude, “Trauma and adversity can alter the brain’s architecture, especially in children, which may partly explain their link to the development of ADHD... When confronted with an acute adverse stressor, the body releases adrenaline, triggering the fight or flight response. When the stress response is activated in children in the context of supportive adult relationships, these physiological effects are buffered. However, when these buffering relationships are unavailable, and when the stress response is long lasting, toxic stress may be the outcome.”

Children who have difficulty learning demonstrate how important inner calmness is to this process. When our sympathetic nervous system (SNS) is activated in a fight or flight response, the pupils dilate and focus on the distance, enabling us to see any potential danger approaching. This makes it difficult to focus on printed material. As epinephrine courses through the body, it brings on a number of physiological changes. The heart beats faster than normal, rushing blood to the muscles, heart, and other vital organs. Pulse rate and blood pressure go up. But, as described by Harvard Health, “persistent epinephrine surges can damage blood vessels and arteries, increasing blood pressure and raising risk of heart attacks or strokes. Elevated cortisol levels create physiological changes that help to replenish the body’s

On the other hand, the parasympathetic nervous system is active when a person is relaxed. This would allow for the possibility of reading a book. The eyes can focus and track properly. Calm breathing allows for expression and fluency. The first task of the teacher (or parent) therefore, is to observe, and if necessary, diffuse any tension. Are the child’s hands cold and clammy, warm or dry? Are the pupils of their eyes dilated due to stress? Do they need time to crawl under a heavy blanket, roll around, or have a big hug to allow for proprioceptive input to calm their nervous system first? And while we all need ‘down time’, time to digest all that we have received in our day, this is especially true for a child. So let us consider the long term effects of constant fear, division, and separation from family and community. Let us support a child’s tender ‘roots and shoots’ and build a healthy community now, to mitigate toxic stress later. And please, take time to educate before you vaccinate.

Offering INDIVIDUALIZED ASSESSMENTS AND LESSONS since 2014, including work in developmental and therapeutic areas for children who are STRUGGLING TO LEARN TO READ.

KATE WOODLAND, BEd BC Certified Teacher readnow180@gmail.com 54

Help Fight Child Hunger in our Community WWW.NOURISHCOWICHAN.CA I 250 597-7760

Terrace off Lakes Road to the very end and then left on York Road. Parking is limited to the street.

Wild Flower and Ecological Reserves Patty Abbott Visitor Centre Coordinator

1. Bright Angel Park is an easy spot to view the many early blooming flowers especially the White Fawn Lily. These are in abundance on the inner trails leading down to the Koksilah River. This lovely park is located in Cowichan Station off Koksilah Road and is great for the whole family. 2. Cobble Hill Mountain located in the Village of Cobble Hill is one our favourite hiking and biking destinations. The trails here can be a little more difficult for some who wish to hike to the summit but generally there are moderate trails. White Fawn Lilies and the Western Trillium will dot the trails along the way to the summit. 3. Somenos Marsh Garry Oak Protected Area boasts some rare wildflowers and Garry Oaks. This area offers the rare Pink Fawn Lily and the rare deep soiled Garry Oak trees. This marsh is also home to over 200 species of birds as well as homes for Beaver, Muskrat, Deer, River Otters, Raccoon and more. To access this area, take Trillium

4. Honeymoon Bay Ecological Reserve is located on South Shore Road in Honeymoon Bay approximately 2.5 kilometres west of the village. From Duncan take Hwy 18 to Lake Cowichan and follow signs through town towards Honeymoon Bay. The road will divide at Walton Road and drive past March Meadows Golf Course. This reserve is approximately 15 acres and home to one of the largest displays of the rare pink fawn lily. There are many other species of flora including bleeding heart, California-tea, wild ginger, Trilliums, Solomons seal and many more. 5. Stoney Hill Regional Park is a 3.2-kilometre loop featuring incredible views of Sansum Narrows and Saltspring Island. This park has a wonderful display of Arbutus trees and Garry Oak as well as many different wildflowers. Some of the different varieties that you may see include Yellow Pond Lily as well as nice displays of Foxgloves. 6. Mount Tzhouhalem located in North Cowichan is a haven for hikers and mountain bikers but also boasts an 18 acre Ecological Reserve with breath taking vistas of wildflowers till the end of May. The reserve is also home to Garry Oak and wildlife. To access the reserve park at Kaspa Parking lot in The Properties and sub division off Maple Bay Road. Once parked take the Danalyzer Trail which will lead you right to the Ecological Reserve and if you wish to continue this same

Understanding the CanadaGAP Program, 8:30-4:30 both days, Virtual - on Zoom, $25, https://www.eventbrite.ca/e/267866274237

trail will take you to the white cross. 7. Ladysmith Ecological Bog Reserve northeast of Ladysmith is quite large at approximately 380 acres. We recommend the Yellow Point Park loop which is about 5.3 kilometres. This is an easy trail and features many beautiful wildflowers as well as a great place for avid bird watchers. Follow Trans Canada Highway north and follow the Yellow Point / Cedar exit then merge onto Cedar Road then turn right

onto Yellow Point Road for 3.6 kilometres and turn left for 750 metres. Wildflowers can be found from March to late May in many of our areas and are usually found along streams and creeks as well as alpine meadows. They come in a variety of colours throughout the season. We have a wonderful selection of books on wildflowers at the Cowichan Regional Visitor Centre at 2896 Drinkwater Road in Duncan. 55

Photo Credit: Barry Hetschko

A Song that Changed Me Alicia Bridge, Podcast Producer, The Bird Who Made Me Happy

•Functional Medicine and Nutrition Consultations •Lab Assessments/Education •Individualized Lifestyle and Wellness Plans 250-931-0012 sageheartnutrition@gmail.com www.sageheartnutrition.wordpress.com

organic craft coﬀee and mmmore by the sea across from Salt Spring ferry terminal

1532 CHAPLIN ST, CROFTON 56

didn’t intentionally seek out to become fascinated with bird songs . . . it just sort of happened. Perhaps it was the stress of motherhood, or the pandemic. Either way, I needed some new form of relief as my old life hacks for keeping it cool were evading me. That is when I heard a bird singing and something shifted in me. It seems a bit too poetic to name it as a calling, but the more I listened to the bird singing around me, the more I felt moved to find out if the song of birds is also intended for our human ears. And if so, then why? Initial research on the subject brought forward some intriguing answers. Listening to bird songs can reduce our stress levels, help us to feel regenerated after onerous cognitive work, and generally assure us the coast is clear, we can head outdoors. Even more baffling, a recent study showed that an increase in bird populations can be as satisfying as a comparable increase in income (next time I owe someone money, I’ll ask if they’d prefer a donation

to Birds Canada!) If bird songs make us happier, than how does this happen, and what does this mean for us ecologically, psychologically, financially or even musically? And might our Cowichan community of bird lovers have some exciting answers. So, with some naiveté and a bundle of excitement for the topic, I pitched an idea to Telus STORYHIVE Voices to explore and share the effects bird songs have on our happiness, with a focus here in the Cowichan Valley. And so was born the visual podcast series: The Bird Who Made Me Happy. From local naturalists, audiologists, researchers, psychologists and the backyard bird fanatic, I hope the podcast will give voice to how bird songs might change mine and perhaps your approach to stress, which local birds are the most relieving and more! As a visual podcast series I hope to showcase the incredible bird habitat and local song birds that call this Valley home. Interested too? Have a story, answers, or a fantastic bird video? Lets talk. alicia@ wildpeace.ca Insta/FB @ thebirdwhomademehappy https:// thebirdwhomademehappy. wildpeace.ca/

The Community Farm Store Page — Your Organic Health and Whole Food Market in Duncan — 250-748-6227

sometimes need to know why in order to feel safe, such as before procedures during pregnancy and childbirth. So take the time to tell them. You’ll discover a sense of trust and a feeling of working together blossoming.

Christina Hamill RCST® specializes in maternity care, lactation support, newborn tongue-tie assessment, and pediatric care.

mplementing secure attachment prenatally can start with planting the seed of simple yet profound practices as soon as you discover you are pregnant. Think of it as a nurturing process of prenatal bonding and imagine your in-utero baby wanting to feel included in the family from the get go. Consider the feelings that came up when you discovered you were pregnant and the ones that emerge throughout pregnancy. Babies want for mom to have the support she needs to work through any difficult feelings AND wants to hear about them in order to feel connected, no matter what the future holds. Our society promotes waiting to share the news of expectant parents until the first trimester is complete (in case of miscarriage). Can you imagine standing at the front door of your house and

Prenatal Secure Attachment waiting three months to be welcomed and greeted by your loved ones? A prenate not only wants to feel the heart connection and spiritual embrace of mom, but of their entire family and close community they will arrive into once born. Simple examples of prenatal bonding are saying good morning while rubbing your abdomen and telling your baby about the day ahead. It can be telling your baby about what you’re eating, what the trees look like and birds sound like. You can sing to your baby

(consider a morning song and a lullaby). You can read simple seasonal stories to your baby that describe the beauty of the outside world. Invite grandparents to tell an oral story to their grandchild that they can retell. Little ones love repetition—it’s how they adapt to the world and get better at transitions. If you or your partner play a musical instrument, decide on a tender tune for your baby. You’ll be amazed at your newborn recognizing all of these daily conscious bonding moments. All these practices will soften the change from being cozy in the womb to entering the big world.

Feeling connected to you is what your baby wants from conception forward. Practicing and building secure attachment from this point onward prepares parents for birth and prepares them for parenting. When you meet your newborn, you will already feel so connected. Looking into each other’s eyes, being skin to skin, and your baby’s first latch will then secure the relationship you’ve nurtured throughout the span of your pregnancy even more.

In-utero babies want to be previewed about what is happening next and

VISIT OUR ZERO WASTE REFILL BAR Hand sanitizer, shampoo, body, dish and laundry soap all available in bulk!

9738 Willow St, Chemainus 250-246-9838 Hours Mon-Sat 10am-5pm • Closed Sun & Statuatory Holidays 58

Grounding Wool

arch is upon us here in the beautiful Cowichan Valley. As a family we go outside right away during the sunny stretches. Our three year old has been climbing trees while our six month old watches with wonder in her eyes. The other day my wife decided it was finally time for our little one to feel the ground below her. The ground is still frozen and the wind still tells us Winter is here, but we pulled out the wool play mat and plonked her onto the ground. It is a signature Soul Comfort baby item and we use everywhere! Inside for play time, and as a “pop-up” space for Grace if we are visiting. She gladly went onto the ground and promptly shuffled on her belly to the edge of the play mat and took a huge handful of tasty leaves, dirt and bits of decomposing bugs. This baby was in heaven! on her fluffy mat that connects her to

the ground while keeping her warm and safe. What more could a baby ask for? The room and authority to explore in a brand new environment on her terms, while being connected to the safety of home, warmth of mummy and feelings of safe boundaries on her wool. The mat was filthy after we were done playing for the afternoon. I washed it in some warm water and some special wool detergent and then popped it in the dryer. All clean and good to go for diaper free time before bed. I like diaper free time because Grace gets to explore her ability without the hindrance of the diaper that is on her most of the time. If pee or poop happens the ability to clean the wool play mat is as easy as I experienced with the massive amount of dirt, leaves and pumpkin seed butter that was adorned on the mat by my son.

I am amazed by wool and the way it works into our life. Wool truly fascinates me for some odd reason. Perhaps it is the good vibrations of my children using it, or perhaps

wool is one of the objects in this world that connects us to something bigger.

Submitted by Andrew Sawyer

GREEN LIVING Spring Clean Checklist

hat a beautiful time of year Spring is! Everything is fresh and new. It’s an excellent opportunity to renew things indoors as well. I am often asked what tasks should be conquered in a deep, annual clean so here are some suggestions. Equipment needed will be vacuum, microfiber cloths and mop, squeegee, concentrated citrus cleaner, bucket for water and a step ladder. 1. First and foremost clean the windows, inside and out. What an amazing difference it makes with the season’s bright sunshine beaming in through crystal clear glass. It is really worth doing the outsides as well so if you have windows out of reach, hire professionals. Be sure to remove screens and gently spray clean with a garden hose. Take this time to also clean out the window tracks, vacuum first then spray with citrus cleaner

and wipe clean. If you have any mold or mildew built up from the damp winter months, use a diluted teatree spray (1tbs/500ml) to kill the spores. 2. Dust everything in all rooms. Most surfaces, vacuum first then wipe clean with a damp cloth. This includes hard to reach places, books and other items on shelves, ceiling fans, light fixtures and lamp shades, tops of cabinetry, window and door casings and remove cobwebs as you go. 3. Pull all furniture and appliances out away from the walls and thoroughly

clean under and behind them. Clean the floor and baseboards back there as well as the backs of the furniture pieces, which may not look dirty but will have been collecting and holding dust, pet dander, pollens etc. Gently beat cushions and throw pillows outside as well. 4. Roll up area rugs to clean under them. Small rugs can be shaken/beaten outside and vacuumed, larger ones need to be steam cleaned along with the wall to wall carpets. 5. Fabric draperies hold dust and odors, some can be vacuumed with the upholstery attachment on your vacuum, or taken down and washed in your washer, others need to be professionally cleaned. Check labels if you’re washing them yourself that they are pre-shrunk before tossing them in your dryer. Blinds can be dusted or damp wiped, slat by slat on both sides. If they are metal

or plastic and are very dirty the citrus cleaner will help remove the “greasy” dust that tends to accumulate on these. 6. Flip and rotate your mattresses, launder pillows, duvets and blankets then swap them out for summer weight bedding. Have a plan for your deep cleaning projects and work in logical sequence so as not to undo all your hard work. Compete all your dusting before having carpets cleaned for example and clean blinds before doing your windows. Whether you take on the job yourself or hire help, completing a deep Spring clean will be rewarded with a fresh, healthy home.

Tracey Hanson, local mompreneur and green cleaning professional

Prioritize your future with a free financial review! Kristy Landry | Financial Advisor | (250) 743-1259 | Kristy.Landry@edwardjones.com

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Maximizing Fuel Efficiency

hese days, we are all cringing as we pull into a gas station. It is becoming increasingly important to look for fuel efficiency ratings when purchasing a new car – both for economy and environmental responsibility. But there are simple things we can do to maximize our fuel efficiency, no matter what vehicle we are driving. Fuel efficiency can be increased through driving practices and good vehicle maintenance. Driving practices: • Smooth and steady! Hard acceleration and braking can lower fuel economy by 15 to 30 percent at highway speeds and 10 to 40 percent in stopand-go traffic. • Control that lead foot! Staying within speed limits is not only safer but increasing your speed from 90km/h to 105km/h increases drag by 36%. • Avoid excessive idling. A warm engine only takes around 10 seconds worth of fuel to restart. Where safe to do so, shut off your engine if you will be stopped for more than a minute.

• Remove unnecessary items from the vehicle. Cargo weight affects the fuel economy of smaller vehicles more than larger ones. • Remove rooftop luggage carriers when not in use. These significantly increase aerodynamic drag and fuel usage. • During the summer, park in the shade. Heat built-up from the sun will require increased use of the air conditioning system. Maintenance: • Keep tires at the right pressure. Check the decal inside the driver’s door or on the driver’s door pillar. Not only do under-inflated tires use more gas, it causes premature tire wear. • Make sure your car is aligned. Misaligned vehicles have increased drag. If your tires are wearing unevenly, that’s a good indication that it needs an alignment. • Change spark plugs. If your 160,000-km spark plugs have 130,000 km on them, they’re 80 per cent worn. Misfires and incomplete combustion occur more frequently during the last 30,000km. • Get that “check engine” light looked at. This light indicates a fault that can increase exhaust emissions and decrease fuel economy. There have been many technological advances

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1-778-554-5434 I tarynogormandesigns.com in the car manufacturing industry that address fuel consumption. The choices are overwhelming – everything from fully electric vehicles, to hybrid, to fuel cell (hydrogen), to very efficient gas-fueled vehicles. If you are considering a new car purchase, do your research and talk to an informed sales consultant to find the right

vehicle that fits your needs and driving habits. A good sales consultant should ask you lots of questions about your lifestyle and how you plan on using your car. Ray Anthony, Sales Consultant at Discovery Honda, 250-701-9568, ray@discoveryhonda.com

By Kerrie Talbot & Madeline Southern Cowichan Estuary Nature Centre Cowichanestuary.ca

ook to the sky and you’ll note the return of our majestic, prehistoric looking birds we know as Pacific Great Blue Heron, indicating Spring is truly on it’s way. Although these herons are non-migratory, when they gather for nesting season (March - July) it is a sight to behold. With their arrival, Cowichan Estuary Nature Centre will be activating our heron camera which is carefully nestled high on a pole at the edge of the rookery - the largest rookery on Vancouver Island!

You’ll want to look sooner than later, as once the big leaf maple trees leaf out, visibility is a little trickier. “Our” herons primarily use maple, alder & conifer trees for nesting, resting, and nest building/ repairs. One tree has 16+ nests occupying it’s limbs. Watching the acquisition of one stick from their “building supply store”, then the delicate art of negotiating their 5’ wingspan, stick in beak, through the forest is an absolute wonder. Did you know that herons have an amazing array of vocalizations? From the beak clacking, barking and cooing of meet and greet mating

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The Herons (Smuqw’a) are Back! season to the squawking, grawking, shrieking and screaming at hungry predators, they’ve got a sound for all reasons. Velociraptors unite! And baby herons do look a little dinosaur-like, particularly when they first hatch. Curious about the continuous low key “grawwk, grawwk” sound coming from the rookery? It’s their inner heat regulation system. By vibrating their throats herons regulate their body temperature.

critical. Their habitat ranges from salt and freshwater marshes, streams and lakes, to backyard ponds and open fields where frogs and other small amphibians are available. Tune in to our web cam @ cowichanestuary.ca to watch nesting activity, or come to Hecate Park for a picnic to observe them “real time”.... low tide is especially good timing to observe them forage in the mud flats. Grrawwwkkk!

Aside from being an essential part of the Cowichan Estuary ecosystem, this particular sub-species of Great Blue Heron, Pacifica, is also a blue listed species - considered vulnerable to disturbance by humans and bald eagles. Protecting habitat for nesting and foraging sites is

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LUCKY DOG

PROFESSIONAL DOG GROOMING!

by STEPH STEW’S DOG DO’S

U Bath or WE Bath

LUCKY DOG Training Through the Ages...

Debbie Wood owns Lucky Dog U-Bath. She can be found on trails in the Cowichan Valley with her BF, Bonnie.

raining dogs as we know it is a very new idea. We’ve been hanging out with dogs for over 30,000 years, yet formal training in North America has been around for less than 120 years. Dogs have been hunting and herding with us for a long time. They were scavengers when cities came about, but bringing a dog into one’s home was just not done until the nineteenth century when European royalty started finding small dogs to be delightful companions. The first dog shows started in the 1850s with few breeds, but there was no judging on temperament or skills. (Dogs were considered to be born as they were. The same was also thought of people, so there you go.) And if the royalty is doing something then so must we.

Dogs started to enter the home. And if you want a well-behaved companion, you must have her trained into full domestication. Enter the professional trainer. Dogs were sent away to be with a trainer for up to six weeks where the mysterious process occurred. The dog was sent home with a list of do’s and don’ts and voila. The idea of regular folks training their regular dogs did not occur until the 1920s. England was mad about dog obedience trials. Helen Whitehouse Walker, a wealthy Bostonian fell in love with the sport while visiting England and learned all she could while there. Upon returning to Boston, she trained her three miniature poodles to run, jump, climb, and (most importantly) respond to her voice. She wowed audiences with her travelling show. While Mrs. Walker was signing people up for her classes, movies were becoming the next big thing. Strongheart, Rin Tin Tin, and dozens more canine super stars of the silver screen showed what a dog was capable of with a good handler. Rin Tin Tin’s handler, Douglas Lee, did most of the heavy lifting in educating the public on training without hurting. All of his tricks were performed without force and Lee demonstrated this

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Drop-in Toe Nail Trim 1059 CANADA AVE DUNCAN everywhere they travelled. As dog training reached the people, many methods came in and out of favour. Celebrity dog trainers would create a whole shift in styles of training. Colonal Conrad Most brought us some heavyhanded techniques with his 1910 book “Training Dogs”. More of a primer for military canines, his methods were regarded as sound for the day. Bill Koehler was also a military canine trainer, but his method started to use praise as well as punishment. The “Koehler Method” was all the rage in the 1940s when he became the animal trainer for Walt Disney Studios. Barbara Wodehouse in the 1980s gave us “Walkies!” and the idea that “There are no bad dogs”. Ian Dunbar started the Association of Pet Dog Trainers in 1997 and it’s still going strong with emphasis

Just north of Pots & Paraphanelia

on seeing things from the dog’s point of view. Karen Pryor was the first famous trainer to bring us “punishment free” training with her famous chicken training camps. (Chickens cannot be trained with punishment, so if you can train a chicken, you can train a dog.) And of course, Caesar Milan whom people love or hate, but at least he helped some dogs and maybe some people. We are not done with the evolution of training techniques. In fact, I hope this primer on dog training history shows just what novices we are in this field. And the dogs patiently wait for us to get our poop together and sort out how to listen to them. Bless their souls.

HERITAGE MUSEUM NOW OPEN FOR THE SEASON The Heritage Museum’s ‘Times They Are A-Changing Exhibit’, is an opportunity to relive your memories. See the changes that time has created in our lives. Remember Rock and Roll, The 50’s Diner, a rotary phone, the school strap and don’t forget the ‘Out House’. Play the ‘Guess The Object Game’, fun for the whole family. See all this and more from 11:00 to 3:00 Sundays at the Heritage Museum, 2851 Church Way, in Mill Bay Times They Are A Changing Exhibit, Sundays 11:003:00pm, Heritage Museum, 2851 Church Way, Mill Bay, www.millbaymalahathistory. com, by donation, March 13, 20, 27

CHEMAINUS CLASSICAL CONCERTS WE STILL HAVE PARIS “La Belle Époque” was a period in history marked by optimism, peace and innovation. The arts flourished, and numerous masterpieces of literature, music, theatre and the visual art were conceived. Anne Grimm, soprano and Bruce Vogt, piano, delve into the rich legacy of this era with songs by Poldowski and Jacques Brel, as well as piano 64

preludes by Claude Debussy. Sunday March 20 at 2 pm at St, Michael’s Church, Chemainus Tickets: $25. Under 18, $1 in advance only by phoning 250-7488383 Masks and vaccine passports mandatory.

KOMBUCHA MAKING WORKSHOP Join the Cowichan Food Hub for an online two-part series in kombucha making! The first workshop session is March 23 at 7pm where we’ll introduce you to all things kombucha, and lead you through setting up your first fermentation. The workshop costs $15 and includes a kombucha making kit. https://www.eventbrite. ca/e/269251998977

government discussion and implementation, with land issues following later.” Joseph offers suggestions for supporting healing: contributing to the building of healing centres, women’s centres, and language revitalization programs. He reminds us to “[b]e aware that cultural survival is a fundamental driver of an Indigenous community’s decision-making process.”

Why We Should Read Submitted by Ranji & David

hile the words “Truth and Reconciliation” are oft repeated, many Canadians don’t connect this to their everyday lives. The Josephs offer practical ways towards doing so. Throughout the book, the authors implore business leaders to treat Indigenous Peoples with dignity, offering the RESPECT model for working with Indigenous communities: Research, Examine, Strategize, Present, Evaluate, Customize, Transform. Just as a successful international businessperson would research legal and cultural differences before going to another country, “why wouldn’t you research the nation you’re consulting with or the community you’re visiting? It’s not up to the community to educate you.” A particularly compelling section of the book - that seems to be at the crux of it all - discusses self governance. “There is an emerging idea that the first steps in the treaty negotiation process should be personal and focused on community healing [of intergenerational trauma], followed by self-

The last chapter of the book talks about the personal side of reconciliation and offers suggestions for what individuals can do. Among these are discussions of the issue of cultural appropriation (such as Halloween costumes and sports team mascots). Joseph says, “When we understand what cultural appropriation is, why it’s harmful, disrespectful, and can even contribute to endangering Indigenous women and girls, then as a country, we are reconciling.”

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Using suggestions from this book we can move towards Joseph’s vision: “When we are reconciled we will live together in harmony, be gentle with one another, we will be caring and compassionate. When we are reconciled, every person living here will live with dignity, purpose, and value.” The Warmland Book & Film Collective – begun in 2018 as a response to the Calls to Action of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada – explores, celebrates, and learns from Indigenous authors and filmmakers. We are welcoming new members – if you enjoy friendly, spirited, and interesting conversation, email us at WarmlandBFC@ gmail.com for the zoom link. We next meet online March 9th to discuss Tilly and the Crazy Eights by Monique Gray Smith. 65

Zentangle, on March 29, is an unique combination of meditation and art with instructor June Maffin. Conscious Aging - a four part series is offered by Dr. Judith Martin beginning March 29 will explore the aging process through discussions, readings and personal reflections.

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April and May programs cover a wide range of interests including local and European history, Irish literature, yoga, art, birding, weeds as food, cycling, lawn bowling, retirement planning and more. Details are available online or by phone.

Cowichan Elder College Spring Program

E Sustainably Harvested Seafood

from Michelle Rose CSF

Michelle Rose Community Supported Fishery

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lder College Co-chairs David Denyer and Betsy Burr welcome previous and new participants to check out our exciting Spring program. Our programs are geared to those 50+ and our instructors are volunteers who are passionate about their topics and willing to share their skills, expertise and experience. Our course fees are $14. per session, plus an annual $10. membership fee to Elder College. Most indoor programs are offered in the Cowichan or Kerry Park Community Centres. Outdoor off-site classes in various locations are planned for later in the spring. On March 3rd, the popular Armchair Travel series will whisk you off to western China and on April 07, to northern Ethiopia - your experienced guide is Gwyneth Kingham. We also have gardening guru Bernie Dinter teaching a course on Spring Gardening tips on March 10.

Elder College is always looking for new ideas and instructors. If you have a course suggestion or would like to teach a course, please let us know. Volunteer instructors are key to our success. Elder College is also seeking new members to serve on the Advisory Committee. For more information please call Jennifer Carmichael at (250)748-7529. Jennifer can also connect you to our co-chairs as required. For course details, please check offerings on-line or through our Facebook page. You can also call (250) 7487529 for information or to register. https://www.CVRD.ca/2401/ Cowichan-Community-Centre Facebook https://www. Facebook.com/eldercollege

Understanding the CanadaGAP Program

nderstanding the CanadaGAP Program will be led by Danni Kneeland from Food Safety Solutions (FSS). Danni has 19 years of experience working in the field of food safety, has been a certified CanadaGAP auditor since 2009, and an approved CanadaGAP Auditor trainer since 2010. She delivers CanadaGAP audits, conducts technical reviews and provides technical assistance for two certification bodies. She has also provided auditor training directly at the request of CanAgPlus (the CanadaGAP scheme owner).

The course materials that will be sent out ahead of time (either printed or an electronic version, you choose), probably a caffeinated beverage to keep you going through the day, an interest to learn, and a smile. CGC is committed to fostering an inclusive environment. Should you need accommodations, please reach out to Dani (dani@ cowichangreencommunity.org) at least 72 hours before the course starts.

Participants will be taught using the CanadaGAP standardized materials and electronic course materials will be provided ahead of time with printing/ downloading instructions. Participants will be eligible to receive a certificate of attendance provided by FSS.

March 21st and 22nd from 8:30am - 4:30pm PST, both days To register visit https://www. eventbrite.ca/e/267866274237 Cost: $25 BUT upon successful completion of the course, participants will have the choice of receiving a $25 gift card to be used in the reFRESH Marketplace at 360 Duncan St. Duncan or $25 worth of seeds in the mail as a thank you for attending.

Note: there is no exam required for this class.

Cowichan Green Community gratefully acknowledges the

bad comics

funding support of the B.C. Government’s Feed BC initiative, to help increase the use of B.C-grown and B.C.- processed

foods in government-supported facilities and institutions.

by Shiloh Badman

eologists have classified most epochs in Earth’s history according to fossils, radiometric dating and composition of the strata. The widely endorsed label for our current era, the Anthropocene, describes the extent to which our collective human footprint is changing the planet. It’s a proposed “geological epoch dating from the commencement of significant human impact on Earth’s geology and ecosystems.” It’s not a surprise to hear that humanity’s impact is negative overall, as evidenced by global climate change, biodiversity loss and species extinction. Although life on Earth has undergone vast changes over millions of years, never before has one species been the cause. Happily, in response to our negative impacts, many humans are engaged in repairing historical and ongoing ecological damage. Alongside our long list of negative impacts, examples of positive effects abound.

Actions that degrade and repair the planet’s ecosystems do not amount to a zero-sum game, though. At any moment places are being destroyed and restored, but they’re not the same places, and the actions don’t happen in equal measure. We haven’t repaired nearly as much as we’ve degraded and destroyed. (In fact, most restoration initiatives are pet projects of the very industries damaging the land.) It’s unrealistic to imagine that human lives, coupled with our many wants and needs, could ever be benign for the planet. But no one is arguing for this. Ecologists around the world are making the case for societies to change the systems that oversee development and resource extraction so that ecosystem functionality — which supports all life — can be maintained or restored. Figuring out and upholding thresholds to ensure ecosystem health is not easy. Much thought has gone into determining goals to tip the scales in nature’s favour,

so that initiatives to heal the planet will outweigh activities that further degrade it, and ecosystem health can be restored where it’s been lost. Some scientists have argued that “nature needs half” — that half the planet’s natural areas should be protected to maintain the processes that support human and non-human well-being. Considering we’re just one of around 10 million animal species, and many areas we grudgingly yield are covered with rock, ice and snow, that’s not a lot. Last year, a group of international conservationists released a paper that advanced benchmarks to achieve a “nature positive” world. The goals are to reach zero net loss of nature after 2020, damage less than we repair by 2030 (become “net positive”) and achieve “full recovery” by 2050. Full recovery could mean many things. The Convention on Biological Diversity links it to ecosystem services maintenance: “By 2050, biodiversity is valued, conserved, restored and wisely used, maintaining ecosystem services, sustaining a healthy planet and delivering benefits essential for all people.” Our federal government is responsive to these targets and has made commitments to achieve them. However, it has not come up with a plan that outlines how these goals will be assessed and reported, nor defined what full recovery would look like in the Canadian context. But there’s wind in the sails; the UN has even declared this the “decade on restoration.” Our marks on the planet don’t have to be permanent. They were put down by us and can be taken up or out by us too. We can apply the same ingenuity we used to construct the infrastructure we’ve imposed on the world around us to reconfigure it. Roads that fragment wildlife can be pulled out and replanted with vegetation;

Anthropocene means we hold the key to our future dams that block fish can be torn down. As the editors of the essay collection Arts of Living on a Damaged Planet write, acts of restoration give us an opportunity to explore the question, “How can we repurpose the tools of modernity against the terrors of Progress to make visible the other worlds it has ignored and damaged?” Our impacts on the planet are ongoing. One way of looking at the Anthropocene is to recognize that we are continually shaping the world with every development and restoration plan. Restoration initiatives give us the chance to hold the ground, literally, until, as Barry Lopez wrote in his book Horizon, “industrial expansion ends and begins to show signs of drawdown” and the scales tip back toward the health of lands and waters and the life they support.

David Suzuki is a scientist, broadcaster, author and co-founder of the David Suzuki Foundation. Written with contributions from David Suzuki Foundation Boreal Project Manager Rachel Plotkin.

Georgia Nicols M.A. Georgia’s book, You and Your Future is a best seller with international printings in 3 languages. georgianicols.com

Aries (March 21-April 19) Your personal year is coming to an end, but your new year won’t begin until your birthday. This means this month you’re sort of in limbo. You will still schmooze with others, especially younger people. Venus and your ruler Mars at the top of your chart will make you look good to others, especially bosses, parents and teachers. And Mars will continue to rev your ambitions. Use this window of time to write down some goals for your new year ahead. Goals keep you on track and make it harder to kid yourself. Taurus (April 20-May 20) This month, you’re more popular! Enjoy schmoozing with friends and getting involved with groups --in person or on-line. (Some of you will begin a romance with someone “different.”) This is a good time to share your hopes for the future because someone’s feedback will help you. Meanwhile, think about future travel. Mars and Venus are in a part of your chart that makes you want to expand your world, learn new things and seek adventure. If you can’t travel, then learn through courses, school, reading or film. You need a change of scenery! Gemini (May 21-June 20) Ta da! Once a year, the Sun sits at the top of your chart for four weeks, which symbolizes that you are in a flattering spotlight. This makes bosses, parents and people in authority admire you, even if you don’t do anything special. This means that this month you have this wonderful advantage! Obviously, now is the time to make your pitch or advance your agenda. Meanwhile, both Mars and Venus are in one of your Money Houses, encouraging resources and money to come your way. You will more easily get a loan or a mortgage. This is a fortuitous. Use it! Cancer (June 21-July 22) Grab every chance to broaden your horizons this month. Seek out new and unfamiliar experiences. Travel if you can. Explore hobbies. Discuss philosophy, religion and

politics because intellectual stimulation will interest you. Obviously, travel will be exciting. With Venus opposite your sign, relations with others are smooth. However, Mars opposite your sign might indicate conflict with someone close to you. The solution is to focus more on what you share with this person instead of your differences. You must share a lot - or how else did they get so close to you? Leo (July 23-Aug. 22) You will feel more passionately about everything (including intimacy) this month, which is why certain compulsions might surface. You might feel obsessed about getting your own way. You might also feel obsessed about being right. Well, these are just ego trips. What’s really going on is that you want to experience life at a more feeling, passionate level. Conversations are not enough. Words, words, words. You want to experience something deeply! Some of you might meet someone who provokes self-inquiry in you. “Pay no attention to the man behind the curtain.” Virgo (Aug. 23-Sept. 22) The Sun is opposite your sign this month. (Symbolically, it means the Sun is as far away from you as it can get all year, and since the Sun is your source of energy – you will need more sleep.) Furthermore, this polarized position of the Sun to your sign will make you focus on your closest one-to-one relationships. The good news is you will have more objectivity about these relationships, which will give you a better chance of seeing how well these relationships fill your needs or the needs of someone else. This is also an excellent time to consult experts Libra (Sept. 23-Oct. 22) This month, you’re going to pull your act together and get better organized. You’ll focus on tasks that need to be done, and will do them efficiently– making every action count. You might have to work on behalf of someone else. Fear not. This is not necessarily self-denial. You will derive satisfaction by doing a good job for yourself and others. You will take pride in your work. Because there is increased chaos on the home front, this attitude will serve you well. I remember that my mother-in-law had a white and blue serving plate with the

script, “It’s a joy to labour for those you love.” Scorpio (Oct. 23Nov. 21) Once a year, the Sun travels through the most fun part of your chart and this is happening now. Lucky you! Your attitude toward your relationships will be lighter and more playful. Your focus will be on amusing recreations, games, sports, social outings, holidays and fun times with kids. Personally, you will feel free to express yourself without fear or apology because you want to be exactly who you are. How liberating and empowering! Some of you might encounter a new romance. Enjoy your good fortune! Sagittarius (Nov. 22-Dec. 21) This month your focus is on your most intimate, personal life and the people who affect it the most. You will cocoon at home more than usual. Your interaction with a parent might be more significant. This is a good tine to contemplate your navel and profound concepts, like why kleptomaniacs take things literally. Naturally, as you ponder family, memories from the past will bubble up in your mind. This is why psychological self-evaluation will promote personal growth this month. Sounds kind of heady, but we are always growing. Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan. 19) The pace of your days is accelerating! You’ve got places to go, things to do and people to see! Fortunately, with fiery Mars in your sign, you have the energy to do this. Meanwhile, it’s a great month to learn how to better handle relationships. Examine your style of communicating to others. It will be easy for you to clearly state your wants and needs to others; however, remember to listen as well. Good communications are a two-way street. If you can get out and travel for even a short trip – this will please you, because you’re eager for new knowledge and a change of scenery.

Aquarius (Jan. 20-Feb. 18) Don’t be surprised to find yourself reflecting on your values and defining the things that are important to you this month. You might take a deeper look at what you own, and your relationship to your belongings. You might wonder, “Why do I keep this stuff?” Obviously, what you own defines you. Possibly, you want to show off what you own to others? However, at a deeper level, you want greater control over your life through the things that you own. But remember – you are the owner. Don’t be a slave to your possessions. Meanwhile, a secret love affair might be bubbling on the back burner. Pisces (Feb. 19-March 20) This month the Sun is in your sign, which is fabulous news! It’s your chance to recharge your batteries for the rest of year! This means you will project yourself more successfully onto your world. You will be more confident, more courageous and more proactive. Naturally, you will feel a great need to express yourself. (This is the one time of year when it is appropriate to put your own needs first.) The Sun will also attract favourable situations and important people to you. Be passionate about your work. Be passionate about your play!

March 2022 Issue 160

Articles inside

March Forecasts

Anthropocene means we hold the key to our future

Cowichan Elder College Spring Program

Why We Should Read: Indigenous Relations

The Herons (Smuqw’a) are Back

Spring Clean Checklist

Grounding Wool

A Song that Changed Me

Wild Flower and Ecological Reserves

Prenatal Secure Attachment

Growing Healthy Children in Times of Stress

The Second Seven Years of Childhood

Common Ground

Shut the Fridge Door

Glutathione “The Master Antioxidant”

Public Overwhelmingly Supports Conservation In Municipal Forest Reserve

Chris Ronald with John Macarthur Ellis

Providence Farm Garden Volunteers Call Out

Seedy Saturday is Coming

Colouring Outside of the Lines

Inspire The Next Generation of Growers

Planting For Pollinators

Thinking of Planting An Edible Landscape? Ado Can Help

Frame Your Family This Spring

Romancing the Stone with Kristina Boardman

Living Your Design Immersion Workshop

Thoughts on Interior Design for the Successful Single Professional Woman

Ukes Misbehavin’

How to Develop Your Personal Capsule Wardrobe

Celebrating Women - International Women’s Day

Vegan Synthetic-Free Truly Natural

Creating Wellness for You and the Environment

The Miracle of Wool

Fashion Advice from Your Local Goldstone Girl Amy Caine

Are you a newcomer here in Canada? Welcome

The Art + Math Beauty Equation

March Events

Tomato & Egg Stew

Past the Family Favourite

Circling in Colour, The Fine Art of Quilling

History Glass

Writing’s Special Place in the Arts

Pet Nat by the Glass