November 2014 web by Cowichan Valley Voice

owichan FREE DIGITAL EDITION

2014 NOVEMBER ISSUE 72

FOOD I DRINK I ARTS I MUSIC I EVENTS I ELECTION INFO I HEALTH

www.cabinetbed.ca

107 INGRAM STREET, DUNCAN TEL: 250 746 5527 WWW.MERITDUNCAN.CA INFO@MERITDUNCAN.CA

ssue 72 November 2014

Published by Cowichan Valley Voice Magazine Editors Sheila & Richard Badman Contact us at: editor@cowichanvalleyvoice.com 250 746 9319 - 936 Arbutus Avenue, Duncan V9L 5X4 Visit us online at www.cowichanvalleyvoice.com Events Calendar Proofreader Distribution Linda Dirksengale Angela Komljenovic Diana Pink Advertising Enquiries please call Adrienne Richards 250 510 6596 e-mail adrienne@cowichanvalleyvoice.com or in the South Cowichan area please call Teressa Kathleen 780 880 8308 / email tk@cowichanvalleyvoice.com South Cowichan Advertising Please Call TK 780-880-8308 tk@cowichanvalleyvoice.com Next Ad Deadline NOV15 for DEC ISSUE *Non Profit Community Ad Rates available please enquire. COMMUNITY CALENDAR LISTINGS ARE FREE! DEADLINE November 15 for December 2014 Issue 72 E-mail Date, Time, Location, Event Title and Cost to: events@cowichanvalleyvoice.com by the 15th. Limit up to 2 listings per business or organizations. No weekly events. Cowichan Valley Voice Magazine reserves the right to omit and/or edit submitted listings due to space limitations SPECIAL THANKS TO FOLLOWING VALLEY VOICES Tom Eagles, James Barber,Vanessa Goodall, Chris Turyk, Margaret Heald, Brian Webster, Holly Howe, Brock & Heather McLeod,Victor Vesely, Sue Darlington, John Erlich, Nathalie Cooke, Toni Blitterswyk,Veronica Scott, Rick Dennis,Colette Heneghan, Ramona Frohle-Schacht, Deb Wood, Gail Maier, Sue Fryer, David Coulson, Andrea Palframan, Sharlene Ionecsu, David Martinello, Bryan Harvey, Marlin Travel, Ruth Hartmann, Kate Marsh, Sadie Bartram, Robin Round, Sandra Beggs, Karina Wickland, Sophy Roberge, Georgia Nicols, Tracey Hanson, Nicolette Genier and The Wonderful Staff at The Community Farm Store and The Lovely Georgia Nicols We welcome your story ideas & photo submissions, however Cowichan Valley Voice Magazine reserves the right to omit and/or edit all submissions for space, clarity, content and style. The opinions expressed in Valley Voice Magazine do not necessarily reflect those of the editor, publishers or other contributors. Please send a query e-mail with your suggested topic prior to sending your article as space is limited and may not always be available. Valley Voice Magazine is distributed through 450 + select locations throughout the Cowichan Valley- Malahat, Mill Bay, Shawnigan Lake, Cherry Point, Duncan, Cowichan Bay, Crofton, Chemainus and Salt Spring Island and to Cowichan Lake, Ladysmith,Victoria, Tofino and Parksville. Cover Image: Cari Burdett. Kim Yanick is a fine art photographer living and working in the Cowichan Valley. Her passion is capturing and conveying stories through her photographs. Her creations extend beyond the click of the shutter, combining tones, textures and a pinch of pixie dust, they resemble paintings from another time. www.kimyanick.com

Now Booking HOLIDAY ADS FOR DECEMBER ISSUE AD Deadline: NOV 18th

Are you a service based business? Ask us how to be part of the DECEMBER

MULTIPAGE EXPERIENCE GIFT GUIDE a special holiday insert for readers.

Contact Adrienne at 250 510 6596 adrienne@cowichanvalleyvoice.com South Cowichan businesses please call TK at 778 880 8308 TK@cowichanvalleyvoice.com

OUR COMMUNITY Guardians of Remembrance 5 November Events 6-7 Eye On Shawnigan 21 What is Direct Equitable Fair Trade 22 Pull Together For Peace 23 Movember An Overview 28 Visit Chemainus 30 Cowichan Bay Ladies Night 32 Experience Dowtown Duncan 40-41 Passport to Shop Downtown 43 Local Election Feature 44-50 Why Vote? 47 4 Steps To A Successful Bottle Drive 58 Canada Must Do More For Environment 60 Valley Directory 62-63 LOCAL FOOD & DRINK How Do You Measure Food Security? 9 Heritage Apples 10 Winter Wines Education 11 Fermented Foods for a Happy Belly 13 Taste of Tea 15 Wine Education at Unsworth 14 Farm Store Pages 56-57 FARM & GARDEN Makaria Farm Winter CSA 18 Alderlea Farm Winter CSA 19 Cowichan’s First Community Supported Restaurant 20 HOME & LIVING Designing Green 24 Rural Property Purchase 25 Aesthetic Concept 26 Single Cup Coffee Brewers 26 LOCAL ARTS Sherlock’s Masquerade Fundraiser 16 Sherlock Holmes Opens in Cheminus 31 Arts Events 34 Japanese Woodblock & Yuzen Fabric Dye 35 Music Events 36-37 Alternative Woodworks 38 Imagine That!Artisan Bryan Harvey 39 BODY, MIND & SOUL The Billings Method 52 Yoga For Wellness 53 Belly Dancing 53 Keeping Healthy in Flu Season 54 Naturopathic Doctor 55 Horoscopes 61 PETS & RECREATION Lucky Dogs Give Your Dogs Some Credit 29 Travel Tips 42 the Cyclists Wishlist 59

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

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operations who are willing to share their experiences with an audience. There are also many resources that can be used by going to www.legion.ca and clicking on any of the icons in the menu category that says Honour and Remember. There, people can find a wealth of information about Poppy and Remembrance, Youth Education and Teaching Guide to name a few.

Guardians of Remembrance

he Royal Canadian Legion and its members are the “Guardians of Remembrance” in Canada. As such, the Legion provides a number of resources that you can easily access when planning commemorations in your local areas. For example, there is your local branch of The Royal Canadian Legion. By contacting them, people may meet Veterans from all peace support

The Legion Pilgrimage of Remembrance section also includes impressions of the battlefields and the gravesites visited by those who attended these pilgrimages and can give those researching them a whole new perspective on Remembrance. Under the Youth Education icon, people can find the regulations for the Poster (Colour or Black & White) and Literary (Essays and Poems) Contests that are conducted each year in schools

across Canada in each of the Senior, Intermediate, Junior and Primary categories. The winners of the national competition in the senior category (Grades 10,11, 12) go to Ottawa to represent the Youth of Canada at the National Remembrance Day Ceremony and place a wreath on their behalf. But it all begins with our most important resource – our Legion members and their branches in your local area. Please reach out to us during this Poppy Campaign. Lest we Forget! Submitted by Tom Eagles Dominion President The Royal Canadian Legion

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NOVEMBER Events

ADVANCE VOTING TODAY!

BENEFIT BRIDGE & LUNCHEON Canadian Federation of University Women Cowichan Valley Duncan Christian Reformed Church For info pilot80@shaw.ca 11:30am $25

SPIRIT JOURNEY CIRCLE @ Harmony Yoga Ceremony Opens Spiritual Connections to Give Guidance & Healing Facilitated by Trevor Husband 360 Duncan St, Unit D Duncan 7:309:30pm 250 932 5255 $10

REALTORS MIX & MINGLE OPEN HOUSE W/ TK THE WATERFRONT AT MILL BAY, Food & Drink, plus business card draw, Noon-3pm RSVP 780-880-8308 by text or email teressa.kathleen@ gmail.com, 744 Handy Rd, Mill Bay

TRADITIONAL SQUARE DANCE w/ THE SHADY GROVE DANCE BAND No Eperience or Partner Needed All Welcome The Hub at Cowichan Station 2375 Koksilah Rd 7:309:30pm $5

13 & 20 Eye Opener Presents The Corporation (10) film and community discussion with invited guests 7pm, Duncan United Church, Tracy 778 455 0437 FREE or by donation.

The Tzouhalem Spinners & Weavers Guild Weavers & More Sale, The Loft Art Gallery, Valley Vines to Wines, Mill Bay Shopping Centre Throughout November

MUSHROOM FORAGING WORKSHOPS At Deerholme Farm Forage Food Display Show & Tell Guided Forage & A Delicious Meal to Top it All Off deerholme.com 4830 Stelfox Rd, Duncan 11-4pm $141.75 person SPIRITS IN THE CELLAR Merridale Cider 6-9pm Special Halloween Weekend 3 Course Dinner Reserve at 250 743 4293 1230 Merridale Rd, Cobble Hill $35 VISIONS ARTISTS SHOW & SALE AWhipple Tree Junction TCH Junction South of Bench visionsarttour.ca 10-5pm Daily Runs to Nov 30

LEARN TO PROCESS SEEDS A Workshop for Seed Savers Green Arrow Farm 4895 Marshall Rd, Duncan 10-1pm Free Bring a potluck dish to share ANGEL TREE TOPPER Needle Felting Workshop 12-4pm nancdesigns.ca $45 FAMILY FRIENDLY 5RHYTHMS CLASS 10am Noon, The Chapel at Providence Farm, $10-$15 Sliding Scale ~ Kids Free www.shaunadevlin.net For info contact 250-709-1921 DOWNTOWN DUNCAN SIDEWALK SALE Participating Businesses Look for the Balloons downtownduncan.ca or Facebook 11-3pm TOM VICKERY & CO SHADES OF SHEARING Crofton Hotel & Pub 1534 Joan Ave 2pm

TIME FOR COLOUR Travelling Quilt Show 36 Quilts Made by Master Quilters Kaleidoscope Quilting Company #2 4715 TCH, Duncan Runs to Nov 16

COMMUNITY ACUPUNCTURE Every Tuesday 12-3pm #103-44 Queens Rd, Duncan Frauke McCashin RAc @ 250-710-3581 YOU CAN DO IT POWER TOOLS 2 Tools that Chop & Slice Empowerment Series for Women to Repair Maintain & Renovate Your Home easerenos@gmail.com Island Savings Centre 7-9pm $35

WINTER WINES EDUCATION at Unsworth Restaurant 2915 Cameron-Taggart Rd Call 250 929 2292 ext 1 to Reserve 7-9pm

TASTE OF ITALY COOKING CLASS w/ Chef Gary Faessler & Special Guest Unsworth Vineyard 7-9pm To Register 250 245 7307 522 1st Ave, Ladysmith $65 person includes tax and wine tasting

IVONNE HERNANDEZ & JEREMY WALSH Cowichan Folk Guild Coffeehouse Duncan United Church 246 Ingram St, Duncan Doors open at 7pm Open Stage 7:30pm Admission $10 or $5 for CFG members CROFTON ART GROUP SHOW & SALE Ready to Frame Artwork Jewelry Potter & Art Cards Refreshments Served 1507 Joan Ave, Crofton 10-5pm Free DUNCAN VOLUNTEER FIRE DEPT 21st ANNUAL CRAFT FAIR Duncan Fire Hall 468 Duncan St, Duncan 250 709 1155 10-2pm Free PINE MUSHROOM EXTRAVAGANZA Deerholme Farm a Dinner Showcasing Local Pine Mushrooms and Global Flavors 748-7450 for reservations 4830 Stelfox Rd, Duncan 5-9pm $90 person

9 11

MARISHA DEVOIN & CAM WIGMORE Crofton Hotel & Pub 1534 Joan Ave 2pm

FARMER JOHN’S WOOD FIRED OVEN PIZZA on Remembrance Day Alderlea Farm & Café 3390 Glenora Rd, Duncan 250597-3438 4-7pm Know your Farmer Know your Food

AVENUE Q The Broadway Musical for Adults Cowichan Theatre 250 748 7529 7:30 pm Tickets $32/$38 COMMUNITY ACCUPUNCTURE Every Wednesday 5 -8pm #103-44 Queens Rd, Duncan Frauke McCashin RAc @ 250-710-3581 12&26 MID WEEK YOGA CLASS @ Rivendell Yurt w/ Sadie Bartram sdbartram@gmail.com 250 748 2089 7-8pm

ADVANCE VOTING TODAY!

GREAT BEAR WILD DISPATCHES FROM A NORTHERN RAINFOREST Ian McAllister Photographer & Conservationist Presents a Multimedia exploration of the Great Bear Rainforest and his new book Quw’utsun Centre 200 Cowichan Way, Duncan 7pm pacificwild.org By Donation

ELIZABETH MAY BOOK SIGNING Elizabeth May Will be Signing & Speaking about her New Book Who We Are Old Firehouse Wine Bar 40 Ingram St, Duncan 3-5pm BILLINGS METHOD WORKSHOP NATURAL BIRTH CONTRO Matraea Centre 170 Craig St 6- 7:30pm rsvp infobillings@shaw.ca FREE VOICES OF NATURE CONCERT Part of Wild Wings Festival Cowichan Theatre 2687 James St, Duncan wildwingsfestival.com $22 ENCHANTED ORCHARD WALKS DOWN CANDY CANE LANE Merridal Cider Complimentary Orchard Walks Fri-Sun Starts at 5pm 1230 Merridale Rd, Cobble Hill Runs to Jan 4

SHERLOCK’S MASQUERADE FUNDRAISER Playbill Dining Room, Chemainus Theatre 7 – 10 pm. Doors 6:30 pm. Tickets are $40 ($70 including a special Venetian mask) Call Box Office 250-246-9820 for tickets. DRAMATIC GYPSY CABARET Pre-Release Concert Sylvan United Church 985 Shawnigan Mill Bay Rd, Mill Bay cariburdettsings.eventbrite. ca 1:30pm $20 Adv $10 Child $25 at the door CONDO CLEANING BEE Instructor Gord Hutchings Register at VIU Cowichan Campus 250-746-3519 12-3pm

VOTING DAY IS TODAY NOV 15! 15 & 16 SHOW SUITE OPEN HOUSE The Waterfront780-880-8308 ask for TK www.thewaterfrontatmillbay.ca 1-4 pm, 744 Handy Rd, Mill Bay

JAMES BARBER FUNDRAISER FOR CGC’S TEACHING KITCHEN The Old Firehouse 40 Ingram St, Duncan 12-4pm vanessa@cowichangreencommunity.org $100

For full design/build service, give us a call

 250.746.5372 • coulsondesign@shaw.ca • www.davidcoulsondesign.com 6

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



2ND ANNUAL FIESTA WORLD CRAFT BAZAAR Over 40 local and global businesses selling fair trade products. Eagles Hall, on Boys Rd just south of the Silver Bridge.10 am - 4pm TRIO ZIMRAH Classical Concert w/ Violin Clarinet & Piano St Michael’s Church Chemainus Contact Ann Mendenhall 250 748 8196 2pm 12th ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING Nichiren Buddha Society For Info 250 710 7594 RALPH BARRAT w/ TOM VICKERY Crofton Hotel & Pub 1534 Joan Ave 2pm MAKE YOUR OWN PROBIOTIC-RICH SAUERKRAUT All supplies included $65 Contact Holly Howe holly@bootlegbetty.ca 2-4:30pm SACRED CHANT CIRCLE Sacred Chant Circle @ Rivendell Yurt Come Together in Community to Experience the Healing Power of Sound sdbartram@gmail.com 250 748 2089 7-8:30pm By Donation

WATERMARK Documentary Night at the Library Cowichan library in the Island Savings Centre 6-7:30pm

SMALL REPAIRS FOR DRYWALL Empowerment Series for Women Hands on Instruction for Patching Drywall from Gouges to Small Holes easerenos@gmail.com Island Savings Centre 7-9pm $35 ELDER COLLEGE History of Genoa Bay View a Collection of Early Photos of Genoa Bay & Hear the History of Early Settlement in the Area 1:303pm Island Savings Centre $12 plus $5 annual Elder College membership

MASTER KOYAMA JAPANESE WOOD BLOCK PRINT KIMONO SHOW, CVAC PORTALS, Island Savings Centre. Runs to November 28 FREE POWER TOOLS TO BUILD A BETTER LIFE Men’s Night Get to the Core of Men’s Struggles Strengths & the Behavioural Patterning that Sabotages Success Time to Heal 511 Canada Ave, Duncan info@timetohealcommunity.com 6pm$14

COWICHAN BAY LADIES NIGHT ON THE WATERFRONT 5-9PM FREE

CHERRY POINT ARTISTS OPEN HOUSE Cow Ex Centre, 7380 TCH 10-1pm Free

SHERLOCK HOLMES and the cas of the Christmas Carol OPENING NIGHT Chemainus Festival Theatre, Chemainustheatre. ca Runs to Dec 28

MANIFESTATION CHANT Nichren Buddha Society For Info 250 710 7594

BETTER TOGETHER, A FUNDRAISER FOR PROVIDENCE FARM presented by Island Soul Choir and Duncan Choral Society 7 pm Duncan Christian Reformed Church, 930 Trunk Rd, Duncan. Tickets at Volume One Bookstore, Ten Old Books, Providence Farm and at islandsoulchoir.com GROUND FLOW FLY Dance Your Heart Out Harmony Yoga 360 Duncan St, Duncan 250 737 1800 5-8pm $25/advance, $30/door COWICHAN-MALAHAT-LANGFORD NDP MEET & MINGLE FUNDRAISER Bistro 161 Contact Georgia Collins, Collins4MP@ georgiacollins.ca 4pm-7pm ONLINE GENEALOGIES TREASURE TROVE OR TRASH? Learn How to Utilize & Navigate Online Genealogies With instructor Carol Stiles from the Duncan Family History Centre Cowichan Library in the Island SavingsCentre 2687 James St, Duncan 3-4:30pm Free LADIES AUXILARY 32nd Annual Craft & Bake Sale at Cowichan Bay Fire Hall Via Koksilah Road and Wilmot Road 9:00-3:00pm HARRY MANX Cowichan Theatre 250 748 7529 7:30 pm Tickets $32

COWICHAN ESTUARY NATURE CENTRE FUNDRAISER Beer & Burger & Silent Auction at Cow Bay Pub cowichanestuary.ca Tickets $20 BIG BAND BRYON STOVELL Crofton Hotel & Pub 1534 Joan Ave Crofton

LIFE ITSELF Reel Alternatives Film Critic Roger Ebert’s Story at Cowichan Theatre Benefits CV Hospital Tickets $12 Benefits LEARN TO USE FREE SOFTWARE Learn to Use Free Software Allowing Free Video Calls Over the Internet Bring Your Laptop 1-4 pm 250 748 7529 to Register Island Savings Centre $12.00 plus $5.00 Annual Elder College membership

TASTE OF THAI COOKING CLASS Guest Thai Chef May Slawson Owner of Sai’s Place Spice Café & Chef Gary Faessler 7-9:30pm To Register 250 245 7307 522 1st Ave, Ladysmith $65 person includes tax and wine tasting

LADYSMITH FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS Spectacular Evening of Festivities Spaghetti Dinner Light up Parade Family Entertainment Fireworks Craft Fair 1st Ave, Ladysmith ladysmithfol.com

• Year round winery tours • Holiday party/get home safe shuttle for any venue • 18 passenger bus with driver • Gift Certificates • Day trips: Butchart Gardens, Chemainus Theatre, Girls shopping/ spa day • Pick up at any location

Cheers Cowichan Tours cheerscowichan.com

250-710-7391

CHRISTMAS KICK OFF Downtown Duncan Family Fun for all ages Santa Fireworks Carolers Chestnut roasting Hay Ride downtownduncan.ca 5:30-8:30pm Free

A SHOW OF HANDS WINTER MARKET New Christmas Market Over 30 Local Crafter’s & Designer’s Family Events Local Live Music Gourmet Eats & Treats Christmas Photo Booth Farmers Institute Hall 3550 Watson Ave, Cobble Hill facebook.com/showofhandsmarket CAMPAIGN BOTTLE DRIVE MINGLE W/ GEORGIA COLLINS Fire Department Mill Bay Shopping Centre Car Pool Parking Lot parallel to Hi-way 9am-12pmMembership SignUp Onsite For more details Manager @ 780-880-8308 SHAWNIGAN LAKE COMMUNITY CENTRE CRAFT FAIR Showcasing Local Crafter’s 2804 Shawnigan Lk Rd 10-4pm 29&30 STREAMKEEPERS COURSE Register @ info@cowichanlandtrust.ca 250 746 0227 9-4pm $60 members $90 non-members

NICK LARIVIERE R&B Big Band Sounds Crofton Hotel & Pub 1534 Joan Ave 2pm

“It’s fresher from here” Roast Chicken, with Apple Cider White Balsamic glaze, Basmati Rice Stuffing

Recipe Courtesy Chef Kaitlyn Bogas Merridale Bistro

Amount

One Whole GLAZE 2 Cups 1/2 Cup 1 Tablespoon STUFFING 1 Cup 1 3/4 Cups 1/4 Lb 1/4 Cup 1/4 Cup 1/4 Cup 1 Clove 1 Teaspoon 3 Tablespoons 2 Cups

Ingredients

Island Farmhouse Poultry Chicken Salt & Pepper To Taste Rosemary (Optional) Merridale Traditional Apple Cider White Balsamic Vinegar Cornstarch Basmati Rice Chicken Stock Ground Chicken Pine Nuts, Toasted Sweet Onion, Finely Diced Fresh Chanterelle Mushrooms Strips Fresh Garlic, Finely Chopped Fresh Rosemary, Finely Chopped Grapeseed Or Vegetable Oil Stock

Method

GLAZE Place cider and white balsamic vinegar in small pot, bring to a boil, and reduce by 50%, over low-medium heat. Once reduced, mix 2 tablespoons of cider in a small bowl with cornstarch. Sparingly add to vinegar pot and thicken slowly. Once thickened, set glaze aside. Glaze will thicken slightly as it cools. STUFFING Rinse basmati rice, then soak in cold water for 30 minutes. Drain, and rinse again. Heat stock in pot with tight fitting lid, when boiling, add rice. Bring to 2nd boil, cover and immediately turn heat down to lowest setting. Cook for 15 minutes. When done remove from heat and fluff. In a medium frying pan, heat oil on medium-high, add chanterelles, and do not stir for one minute. This will allow them to brown, drawing out the rich, earthy flavour. Give mushrooms a shake, and add onions garlic and ground chicken. Saute over high heat until brown. Add rosemary. toss in toasted pine nuts, and season with salt and pepper. remove from heat, and allow to cool. When cool, combine this mixture with cooked rice and preheat oven to 425 F. CHICKEN Rub chicken with salt and pepper and optional rosemary. Place stuffing into mesh bag, and place into the cavity of the chicken. Roast chicken on middle rack of oven, leaving heat at 425 for ten minutes, to allow to crisp skin. brush liberally with glaze, and reduce heat to 375 F. Cook chicken for about 20 minutes per pound, basting frequently with glaze. remove from oven, and allow to rest for 5 minutes. remove stuffing, and place in serving dish.

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

The James Barber Fundraiser for CGC’s Teaching Kitchen Sunday, November 16, 12:00 pm - 4:00 pm The Old Firehouse Wine and Cocktail Bar 40 Ingram St Tickets $100 Call Vanessa 250-748-8506 to reserve

Bill Jones is an author, chef and food consultant who can be found at Deerholme.com

hen my wife Lynn and I moved to the Cowichan Valley, we were searching to be part of a community. We found it in the people of the Cowichan and in the wonderful organizations such as Providence Farm, Hope Farm, The Food Basket Society and the Cowichan Green Community. These are people who are making a difference in our region and have important roles in taking care of all parts of our society. They are also always working with shoestring budgets and the stress of allotting little money to big problems. They need the support of the greater community to create success. The James Barber Fundraiser series was designed as a way for the Barber Family to give

back a little to the community James loved and supported. Each year we do a fundraising event that celebrates the importance of generosity. It’s a chance to mingle, relax and give back to the community in a very pleasurable way. In return, we give funds to the folks on the front line of our food system. These are the people using food to heal, create needed revenue, teach skills and mentor future stewards of our local environment. This year, the James Barber Fundraiser is generating funds for the teaching kitchen at Cowichan Green Community. The funds are earmarked for kitchen equipment to help local farmers process food, learn skills and become a hub for economic and social activities. To me a green community means people respecting the

lessons of the past, caring about the current state of the land and planning for a better, more sustainable, future. These types of events are by nature geared towards those who can afford the ticket, put they do much good for those who cannot. The time of the chefs is donated, local farm products are donated, wine and beverage are donated – your task is to buy a ticket and 1) support the cause, 2) meet like-minded people in your own community and 3) have a ripping good time.

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

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inter Banana. King Luscious. Catshead. Graniwinkle. Hot new rock bands? Obscure Scrabble words? Nope. These are just four of several hundred apple varieties flourishing today on Salt Spring Island, where nearly disappeared heritage apples are making a comeback on farms old and new. Our temperate coastal climate is perfect

OPEN FRIDAY, SATURDAY & SUNDAY FROM 11AM UNTIL 5PM STARTING NOVEMBER 1ST.

for apples and that’s exactly why they flourished on Salt Spring more than 150 years ago. The island was the centre of apple growing in B.C. until the First World War. In those days, barge after barge loaded with apples left the island each week during harvest season, headed for Vancouver Island and the mainland. From there, a trainload a week set off for Winnipeg, delivering Salt Spring’s bountiful harvest to communities across Western Canada. These were heady days. It didn’t last, of course, as industrial agriculture eventually pushed Salt Spring’s apple dominance aside. Massive, irrigated, mechanized and chemical-dependent orchards in the Okanagan Valley and Washington State cut prices, reduced diversity and relegated Salt Spring apples to local use only. But unsustainable industrial agriculture also has its limits. A century later, people yearning for alternatives to mass produced, chemically-treated food and mealy grocery store apples increasingly look to small scale agriculture for answers. And Salt Spring’s small cadre of apple growers are offering up an alternative. Visit a Salt Spring orchard and you’re likely to see a bounty of diverse apple

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

Salmon Mousse Recipe courtesy Chef Leana Meyer

Heritage Apples On Salt Spring Island trees, from the tiny Lady Apple – seen in holiday season decorations of yesteryear – to the massive Wolf River, one of them able to fill a pie to overflowing. With new orchards being planted and old ones revitalized, the future of apple growing on Salt Spring is looking diverse, organic, vibrant and delicious. Yes, you’ll even find Pig’s Nose Pippin, Roman Stem and Wrixparent alive and well on Salt Spring. Brian Webster Salt Spring Apple Company SaltSpringAppleCompany.com

Open Tuesday - Sunday 10am - 6pm

Great for dip or spread at holiday parties, make up a batch in advance and freeze in smaller portions, grab and go! A great use for leftover salmon as well, just make sure the meat is free of bones and skip to step 2.

Amount

Ingredients

STEP 1 250gr 1 Tbsp 1 Tbsp

Salmon meat, skinless & boneless Halibut stock White wine

STEP 2 2 1/2 Tbsp 6 1/3 stalk

Table Cream 18% Peppercorns Lemongrass, ﬁnely chopped

STEP 3 250gr 4 2 Tbsp 1/4 tsp

Mascarpone, room temp Lemons zested Lemon Juice Vanilla Extract

Method

Wrap in foil: sockeye, halibut stock, wine, seasoned with salt and pepper. Bake until cooked, then cool and crumble with your ﬁngers or a fork - watch for bones. Bring cream, peppercorns and lemongrass to a boil and turn off, steep for 20 minutes, strain and chill. In a large metal bowl: combine all remaining ingredients except chives/ green onions. Whip with hand whip until light and ﬂuffy. Stir in chives / green onions - season to taste. Can be frozen - make a batch and keep handy!

OPTIONS: Vanilla - if you have a vanilla bean use 1/4 bean, split and scraped during steeping step instead of extract. Star Anise - use 2 to 3 stars during steeping process instead of extract

Cowichan Bay Seafoods

1751 Cowichan Bay Rd, Cowichan Bay 250-748-0020 E-mail: info@cowichanbayseafood.com

Winter Wines Education with Chris Turyk

s we head into the autumn and winter months, I gravitate toward rounder weightier whites and serious brooding reds. Winter, especially the holiday season, is the ideal time to pay homage to classic regions like Languedoc, Bordeaux, and Port. Many European wine regions are structured by quality levels so there are options at all price points, however be warned, cheap Bordeaux tastes of cheap Bordeaux.

Value wines are abounding in Languedoc (Southern France), and at entry-level price points; your dollar cannot go much further. Hovering around $20 Bila-Haut from Michel Chapoutier from Languedoc always finds its way onto my holiday supper table.

Often more recognized for their reds, Bordeaux makes delicious white also. White Bordeaux are generally blends of Sauvignon Blanc and Semillon with a deft hand of oak. Riper and with less edge than New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc, white Bordeaux is frequently the Violin Maker dark horse my 25 Years Experience of favorite wine of the holidays. Grand Lutherie in the Italian Tradition. Bateau 2012 is Making, repair and restoration a great example of Violins, Viola, Cello, Double at $20, flavors of Bass, Harp, and all manner apple and pear, of Stringed complimented by ALSO offering Instruments. judicious use of instrument making classes. 250-749-6563 oak. Mandolin zakviolins@shaw.ca After dinner get & Violin. www.zakviolins.com comfy in front of the fire, have a

Zak Stolk

Eat, Drink and Support Local

few too many chocolates and an extra glass of dessert. Port, beyond its history, production, and reverence is one of the wonders of the world. A little goes a long way; so settling with a Tawny style will ensure it can stay open from mid December to New Years without fear of oxidation. Hedonists take note, Taylor Fladgate 20 Year Tawny tastes of pecan pie, caramel coffee, stewed dates and is just downright satisfying. For the more adventurous try a Colheita, which is a vintage dated Tawny. Unsworth education nights continue on Nov. 5 from 7:00pm-9pm at Unsworth Restaurant. Three wines and two courses are included for $35. Chris Turyk is a Certified Sommelier, WSET Diploma holder and currently raises chickens at Unsworth Vineyards.

How Do You Measure Food Security?

he impacts and issues surrounding food security intersect the work of many community members and organizations in the Cowichan Region. Defined as a situation that exists when all members of our community have access to enough nutritious, safe, ecologically sustainable, and culturally appropriate food at all times, food security affects all of us. Some of us are more food secure than others. Those who work in this field â&#x20AC;&#x201C; from farmers to Registered Dietitians â&#x20AC;&#x201C; often ask how a community determines its own level of food security. Particularly, how do we measure the impact of the food programs and initiatives that aspire to improve food security? These are some of the questions that the Cowichan Food Security Coalition, a network of regional food security advocates and stakeholders, is seeking to address. Over the past eight months, the Coalition has collected regional food data and information which has been compiled into the first annual Cowichan Food Security Report Card. This information builds on the previous work of the Coalition, namely the Cowichan Food Action Plan and the Cowichan Food Charter, and is intended to act as a snapshot of the health and sustainability of our current food system that can be updated annually. Focusing on three themes, including Zero Hunger, Healthy Food Choices, and the Local

Food Economy, the Coalition has captured information on some of the food issues that our community faces, and the programs and services that are working to address these issues. In doing so, we hope to create a platform for discussion and regional action on local food issues. The final report card and a summary report will be published this November. As this is the edition, the Coalition is open to feedback and welcomes the participation of community members in developing the 2015 Food Security Report Card. For more information or to learn how to get involved, please contact Vanessa Goodall at vanessa@ cowichangreencommunity.org or 250-748-8506. Or, checkout our webpage for more details and updates: http:// cowichangreencommunity.org/ community-action/cowichanfood-security-coalition/

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

Vanessa Goodall, CGC Food Security Co-ordinator. cowichangreen community.org

Cowichan Midwifery Group Welcomes New Midwives! Now accepting pregnant women due January 2014 and beyond.

Comprehensive Maternity Care and Post-Partum Home Visits, Birth at Hospital or Home. Fully Covered by Your Provincial Health Care.

Elizabeth Morrison and Julia Cianci Registered Midwives midwives@matcentre.ca 250-709-2040 170 Craig St., Duncan

Fermented Foods for Happy Belly Bootleg Betty Teaches You How

s we head into the holiday season rich with delicious foods our gut would thank us if we were to regularly eat fermented foods. Fermented foods improve digestion, strengthen your immune system, contain greater levels of nutrients and vitamins and are rich in enzymes all to obtain greater nutrition out of our food and supply us with a range of good bacteria, we so desperately need for radiant health. In addition, not only is fermenting food inexpensive, it greatly improves its flavor. Think of the rich flavour profile found in the variety of cheeses available versus a glass of milk. It is only recently that fermented foods have disappeared from our daily diet. Modern sauerkraut, kimchi and pickles are pasteurized and made with vinegar instead of the traditional method of lacto-fermentation using

salt. Bread is made with commercial yeast instead of being naturally leavened with wild yeast. Wine, beer and cheese are pasteurized. Both True Grain Bread in Cowichan Bay and Well Bred Bakery at the Duncan Farmerâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Market has traditionally prepared sourdough bread. The Community Farm Store - at their new location in Duncan, WOW! â&#x20AC;&#x201C; carries traditionally fermented sauerkraut, kimchi, pickles, yoghurts and kefirs and raw cheeses. Pick one and incorporate it into your diet. Your belly will thank you. Make Sauerkraut! Workshops Nov 16 and Dec 7 (Kristmas Kraut!) holly@bootlegbetty.ca 250-746-7824

Holly Howe aka Bootleg Betty teaches MakeSauerkraut! Workshops. bootlegbetty.ca makesauerkraut.com

affordable sliding scale fees

Auntie Margaret’s Heald’s Christmas Cake Recipe from the UK

The following is the one I have used all my married life. It has never failed but there is always a first time. Currants 450 G Sultanas 200 G Raisins 200 G Glace Cherries 150 G Mixed Peel 75 G Plain Flour 350 G Mixed Spice 2.5 Ml Cinnamon 2.5 Ml Butter 275 G Brown Sugar 275 G Large Eggs 5 Brandy 20 mls

REnovations! We will be closed first week of November

holiday baking in DecEMBER

Preheat Oven To 425ºf (220ºc). First line a metal cake tin with grease proof paper. Cream together butter and sugar and then add the eggs one at a time. Now fold in the flour, fruit and finally the brandy. Bake at 150 degrees centigrade for 3 and half hours. Depending on your oven the cake could be done after 3 hours. A sharp skewer is pushed into the top of the cake to check if it is ready. If it comes out clean then the cake is ready. Let the cake stand for about 15 minutes and then tip out on to a cooling rack. Once the cake is totally cold unwrap and place in tin foil and keep in a cool dry cupboard. I have made this cake up to 6 months before it has been needed. Add brandy 20 mls approx every fortnight (14 Days) by firstly piercing the top of the cake all over and pouring on the brandy. Next time turn the cake over and do the same from the other side.

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

Tea infused chocolates from Teafarm.

Taste Of Tea

hocolate contains large amounts of the same beneficial plant chemicals that now have burnished the reputation of tea. In fact, just one ounce of chocolate has about as much of these plant chemicals as a cup of brewed black tea. One large, ongoing study of the benefits of exercise found that men who eat chocolate in moderation live longer than those who eat none.â&#x20AC;&#x2122; - University of CaliforniaBerkeley Wellness Letter. When we created our first tea blend almost six years ago we never thought that Persia (a combination of Darjeeling, Earl Grey, Ceylon and Lavender) would be the perfect tea to drink with chocolate. Fine chocolate and fine tea, when combined with a quiet moment of reflection and repose, are a truly healthful recipe for good living. We have recently designed more tea infused

chocolates. Inspired by our tea plants and the evolving possibilities of the types of tea we will be producing, the culinary use of tea in chocolates has been a wonderful adventure. Maple wood smoked tea leaves are being infused into the cream of chocolate truffles, then dipped in dark chocolate creating a most unique flavour experience. Our newest offering is a soft praline and coconut custard covered in milk chocolate sprinkled with Teafarm ground tea leaves (also know as matcha), we call it the Cowichan Bar. Now that the wood stove in the tea gallery at the farm is creating the ideal room temperature for chocolate, the perfect moment of true delight awaits you. If you love tea and love chocolateâ&#x20AC;Ś welcome home. Margit and Victor grow tea culture in the Cowichan Valley. www.teafarm.ca

Quick Relief for Cold and Flu AT LYNN’S VITAMIN GALLERY!

Sherlock Holmes needs your assistance to solve the latest dastardly mystery at the Chemainus Theatre Festival.

herlock’s Masquerade will be an evening with an intriguing mystery, fabulous themed canapés and beverages, games, with prizes for costumes and clever sleuthing. Entertainment will include Bernard Cuffling (Jeeves in Bloom, Dracula, the Woman in Black, Amadeus, Hayfever) as your host Mr. Sherlock Holmes, with live musical entertainment by the Dave Lieffertz Combo as well as performances by Vanessa Croome (Cosette in Les Misérables ), Sarah Carlé (Les Misérables, The Buddy Holly Story, The Gifts of the Magi, Steel Magnolias) and Brad L’Écuyer (Les Misérables, The Buddy Holly Story, Joseph, Gifts of the Magi). It will be an evening you won’t want to miss.

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In addition to the entertainment there will be an array of silent and live auction items more diverse than the British Empire and they will include some special and unique auction

items such as the Chemainus Theatre’s Royal Downtown Abbeyish evening featuring a pre-show extravagant dinner on set, a behind the scenes tour, a performance with overnight accommodation at the Best Western Plus, a fishing charter from Screaming Reels Fishing Charters, a $500 shopping spree at La-Z-Boy, an incredible wall of wine consisting of 100 bottles of wine from all across the island and a wide variety of wonderful artwork by local and BC artists. The event will also wrap up the online auction, which features a beautiful selection of Serigraphs from local artist Arthur Vickers, hand printed or hand pulled prints, representing a wide variety of the artist’s work, along with getaway packages, day trips, attraction tickets and more. All proceeds from this event will support the Chemainus Theatre ongoing operations and is generously sponsored by Coastal Community Credit Union, Orchard & Co., Island Savings and Willow Street Café. Sherlock’s Masquerade, Saturday, November 15, 7–10pm. Doors 6:30 pm. Tickets are $40 ($70 including a special Venetian mask) and are available now at the Theatre box office by calling 250-246-9820.

Visit www.platinumnaturals.com to learn more or visit us here at Lynn’s vitamin Gallery for more ﬂu busting tips!

Lynn’s

VITAMIN GALLERY

HEALTH FOOD STORE Village Green Mall, 4-180 Central Avenue, Duncan

250 748 4421 www.lynnsvitamingallery.com

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

Please join Patty and I on November 11 at the Cobble Hill cenotaph as we remember.

Makaria Farm Winter CSA

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e’ve wanted to offer a winter CSA program for years. Our CSA members have told us how hard it is to return to mainstream produce in the grocery stores when CSA season ended. And we know how hard it can be to source local, organic produce in the late fall and winter months. So we’ve been working on our farming skills for years, trying to get better at growing late-season crops and storage crops. We hunted for more land to grow these fall crops on, in order to give our crop land time to rest and recuperate under a bed of green manures. 2 years ago we started our Food Security Club, which allows us to offer bulk amounts of storable and preservable vegetables to folks who want to fill their cupboards, fridge and freezer with local food. Our Food Security Club has been a success, but we often hear from folks who can’t sign up because

they just don’t have the space to store large amounts of food through the winter months. We’ll be delivering hefty bags of carrots, beets, garlic, squash and much more to homes in Victoria and the Cowichan every two weeks for eight weeks, with our first delivery on Tuesday, November 11. (Our main CSA program ends the week before.) Our winter CSA costs the same as a Full Share in our main CSA program, at $20.25/week plus $3 per delivery, for a total of $174. We’re excited to offer a new way for folks to access our tasty, organic produce. For more details on our winter vegetable delivery program, or to sign up, please visit www.makariafarm.com.

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

Brock and Heather McLeod grow organic vegetables and strawberries at Makaria Farm. makariafarm.com

f i v D S p a t C l f

P s t f p a f

Volunteer of the Month - Cosmo Rae harvesting the abundant carrot crop with Farmer John

Alderlea Farm Winter CSA

njoy the Fall/Winter harvest with vegetables from Alderlea Farm! This is our eighth year providing vegetables in November and December to our Community Supported Agriculture program and Farmer John and Katy are grateful for the support of people in the Cowichan Valley who make local organic/biodynamic farming possible.

farming…. visiting the Cafe, and taking in the gorgeous view, the sense of tranquility and bounty that exudes out of every corner of Alderlea Farm…. and being connected to all the wonderful shareholders… Fresh rich food, friendly people, opportunity to eat different foods, connection with the land especially with farm pickup.”

Participants in the program say what they like most about the program… “ access to fresh organic/biodynamic produce, knowing that we are helping a wonderful family make a living with

Picking up vegetables from Alderlea Farm provides the opportunity to see where and how we grow our crops. Feel free to walk around the farm, see the many farm animals, and speak to the farmers.

The program last eight weeks, with an abundance of harvest crops. Alderlea Farm offers three different box sizes to meet your family’s needs.

Choose your own Veggie pick up area.

John and Katy Ehrlich own and operate Alderlea Farm and Cafe in Glenora.

Beach Walk, Cherry Point Damp, firm sand, waves lap, sighing faintly as they wash the tide in. Smell of iodine and brine. Clouds fluff around the horizon. Jake the dog runs looking for seaweed to eat, the kind with amber popping bladders. Tiny red crabs scurry in from the waves raising white pincers in the air, like combative, miniscule boxers. More dog prints in the sand: one set huge, one tiny, also a trail of deer hooves, and, in a Robinson Crusoe moment, prints of a bare human foot, the toes dug in as if running. Out in the bay a waiting freighter sleeps emitting a low hum over the water. Apart from the hum and the growl of a distant plane... quiet. Karen Severson is a writer and visual artist who lives and works in Mill Bay.

GOLDA’S LITERACY NUGGETS “Children are made readers on the laps of their parents.” - Emilie Buchwald

info@gopesto.com I www.gopesto.com

Unsworth Launches Cowichan’s First Community Supported Restaurant

usband and wife team Steve and Christle of Farm’s Gate Foods & Catering are no strangers to the Cowichan Valley. First, they wooed us with their food truck at the Duncan Farmers Market, serving gourmet dishes artfully prepared from local farm ingredients. Then, as of last May, Steve and Christle took on a new and exciting challenge in running the new restaurant at Unsworth Vineyards. Situated in a beautifully-restored farmhouse on the Unsworth property, you could now drink exceptional local wines while enjoying your delicious meal carefully prepared by Steve. Now, as we head in to the fall season, Steve & Christle are offering Cowichan’s first ever Community Supported Restaurant (CSR) at the Unsworth Restaurant. What’s an Unsworth CSR? Essentially, it’s a way for the community to show their support for Steve and Christle’s wonderful new venture at Unsworth Vineyards, and to keep the momentum going through the fall and winter season when tourist visits decline. In return

for a $150 membership, you get to enjoy six gourmet dinners at the Unsworth Restaurant. Upon signing up, members will start to receive a weekly special three-course menu by email and can then choose to reserve a seat for Thursday or Sunday, anytime from October 2014 through April 2015. Once members have experienced their initial six dinners, members can continue to dine on CSR menus for $25. (The price for non-members is $35). Brock & Heather Mcleod of Makaria farm signed up for Unsworth’s first ever CSR. “We signed up not only because Unsworth’s food is delicious, but because we love having this hard-working, innovative couple as part of our Cowichan community and we want to show our support. We hope you’ll sign up too.” For more information or to purchase an Unsworth CSR membership, call 250-9292292 ext. 1.

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

2nd Annual

Over 20 local and global organizations and businesses selling fair trade products. Unique quality crafts, books, cards, calendars, posters, games, toys,clothing, jewellery and food! Tasty ethnic lunch, mouth-watering desserts.

Sunday, November 16 10:00 am to 4:00 pm Eagles Hall, Duncan

On Boys Rd just south of the Silver Bridge

Fair Trade Reflective Sweaters made from 100% New Zealand wool and fully lined with polar fleece, but what makes these different is the retro-reflective thread added in. Not only will you be warm, you’ll be visible too! Available in a variety of styles for men & women!

Next To Nature Trading Puzzles • Mohair Socks • Sheepskin Slippers • Sweaters • Cards • Pottery • Salt Lamps • Mittens • Hats • Crystals • Handmade Soaps • FRESH HOMEMADE FUDGE and more!

250 748 6647 www.beaverhousefudge.com

Whippletree Junction

Who Knows What Direct Equitable Fair Trade Is?

t’s about making principles of fairness and decency mean something in the marketplace. It seeks to change the terms of trade for the products we buy - to ensure the farmers and artisans behind those products get a better deal. Most often this is understood to mean better prices for producers, but it often means longer-term and more meaningful trading relationships as well. For consumers and businesses, it’s also about information. It is a way for all of us to identify products that meet our values so we can make choices that have a positive impact on the world. Direct Equitable Fair Trade (DEFT) is a practice where suppliers and producers of products, components, or ingredients, are paid fairly for their efforts and goods. DEFT enables these producers in other countries to move out of poverty and improve their lives, and those of their families and children, and countrymen. It is, as it says, being fair to the people who supply the materials and ingredients we use here in our manufacturing, food service, and daily lives. DEFT is really about making changes to conventional trade, which frequently fails to deliver on promises of sustainable livelihoods and opportunities for people in the poorest countries in the world. Poverty and hardship limit people’s choices while market forces tend to further marginalise and exclude them.

This makes them vulnerable to exploitation, whether as farmers and artisans, or as hired workers within larger businesses. That two billion of our fellow citizens survive on less than $2 per day, despite working extremely hard, suggests that there is indeed a problem. Long-Term Trade Relationships - fosters longterm trade partnerships at all levels within the production, processing and marketing chain that provide producers with stability and opportunities to develop marketing, production and quality skills, as well as access to new markets for their products. Direct Trade - attempts to reduce the intermediaries between the primary producer and the consumer. This delivers more of the benefits of such trade to the producer and connects consumers more directly with the source of their food and other products, and with the people who produced them. Come see what it is all about at the 2nd Annual FIESTA World Craft Bazaar, Sunday, November 16 10 am - 4pm Eagles Hall, on Boys Rd just south of the Silver Bridge.

Submitted by Sue Darlington

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

R t

W C S v t t e r a o w a r s p C r r p “

D o g N t a p t D b t 1

T N a d N a “ d e C d S w G a i l o r a

A T s E p H a N a fi t n S

Pull Together To Support First Nations

he Cowichan Valley is a long way from the Great Bear Rainforest, but the two places are tied at the roots.

When Nathan Cullen of Skeena Bulkley valley came to Duncan to talk Enbridge, environmental responsibility and energy options, he was met with a standingroom-only crowd. This spring saw prolonged and vocal antipipeline and tanker protests in Cowichan and all over BC. When reckless resource developers run roughshod over the democratic process, it tends to bring out the “unity” in community. Despite that groundswell of opposition, the federal government approved the Northern Gateway pipeline and tankers project. The ruling—to allow tarsands bitumen to be piped across BC — flew in the face of the Save the Fraser Declaration, an indigenous law banning tarsands products from the traditional territories of over 100 First Nations. The Cowichan Valley Metis Nation was one of many groups across the province who formally declared their opposition to the Northern Gateway project. In a statement, the CVMN said “a crude oil spill would have devastating and long lasting effects on the Pacific North Coast area, recognized for its diverse ocean ecosystems.” Says Jess Housty, a councillor with the Heiltsuk Nation in the Great Bear Rainforest, “What’s at stake for us is our whole identity. It’s everything from our language, and our culture, and our spirituality, to the food we rely on, and the places where our ancestor’s bones rest.” A new initiative, called Pull Together, has been launched to support First Nations along the Enbridge Northern Gateway pipeline and tankers route. Housty’s nation, the Heiltsuk, along with the Kitasoo-Xai’xais, Nak’adzli, Nadleh Whut’en, and Gitxaala First Nations have filed legal challenges opposing the federal approval. Led by northern communities, the Sierra Club BC and RAVEN

(Respecting Aboriginal Values and Environmental Needs), Pull Together is engaging grassroots supporters from around the province to support First Nations who are launching well-founded legal challenges. “Coastal and northern communitiesand many First Nationsare united in an awareness that transforming BC into an oil and gas corridor to Asia poses a threat to the thriving economy, cultures and communities that are the lifeblood of this province,” says Pull Together campaigner Andrea Palframan. The campaign aims to raise $250,000 by the end of November.

Our Annual 2014 Christmas Card Memories Our Options include Lights, Design, Install and Take Down, Wreaths, Swags and PLACE Garlands.

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It has been long established that First Nation’s constitutional rights are a powerful bulwark against the Harper governments dismantling of environmental legislation—but only if the nations can afford to uphold those rights in court. “First Nations hold the legal tools that can protect the environment but they don’t necessarily have the resources to enact them,” says RAVEN’s executive director Susan Smitten. “Pooling resources and avoiding duplication means that even smaller contributions can go a long way.” this November, yoga studios and wellness practitioners all across BC are taking up the challenge to “Stretch Across BC”. If you are a teacher or healer, you can participate by hosting a fundraising event in your studio, or set up an online fundraiser at www.pull-together.ca. Moksha Yoga have pledged to raise $10,000 by the end of November by holding film screenings and karma classes, while Pura Vida Spa on Salt Spring is donating treatments on November 16th. Since the Cowichan Yoginis held their Yoga for the Coast initiative, 20 other studios have come on board to help Pull Together. “Instead of a pipeline, we can create a long line of people— committed in solidarity and protection— to Stretch Across BC,” says organizer Andrea Palframan.

Ongoing Knitting and Weaving Workshops. Drop In and See!

Leola’s Studio 250-597-0820 Whippletree Junction www.leolasstudio.blogspot.com

Looking for work? gvsjobs.com | 250-748-9880

ell the cooler weather is now upon us so no better way to celebrate getting cozy than adding a warm touch to areas of your home. While heated floors are becoming popular again, they are not always the affordable fix for new or renovated homes. Of course if it’s new construction, install a loop of ‘pex’ lines in your slab for the inevitable hook-up down the road . The cost at this stage is minimal at less than 40 cents a foot and heat sources could range from solar heated hot water to a hydrogen fuel cel technology down the road or even a bio mass fired community shared utility. Fuel sources will change depending on availability and supplied price but if the pipes are in the slab, that will never change. And creating that thermal mass provides a hot plate of heat for a large portion of your home. Just be sure you keep the pex lines out of any direct sunlight as they could get damaged by the ultra violets. And allow for a fresh air supplying HVAC to help circulate air. A renovation on the other hand can be quite expensive and invasive to add heated water piping throughout. Electric under floor wire mats, although nice in a small bath area of less that 50 square feet, can really

add up in install costs and most importantly in operating costs as they tend to require a constant ‘on ‘ position year round to be effective and have a very slow recovery if shut off completely. One of the quickest and most affordable ways of adding some visual warmth and comfort is a free standing gas heater or fireplace as in this photo attached. It is also a great way to effectively warm a space with walls of glass and allows a cleaner look devoid of baseboard heaters. Whether you have access to natural gas or not, propane is still a good option. And you won’t necessarily need one of those huge propane tanks. One hundred gallon tanks are just 24” in diameter and can be tucked under your eve just about anywhere. We have ours filled once or twice a year and it runs our fireplace, barbeque and also commercial 6 burner stove. This is also a great option if you lose power during winter storms. Be sure your unit is a radiant style heater that can operate with or without a fan. Of course pellet stove technology and the advent of local pellet manufacturers making this fuel from local secondary manufacturing processes adds yet another clean and sustainable option.

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The chimneys in these solid fuel burning units can be more costly to install versus the direct vent gas of course but again, availability and costs for operation should be driving the decision making here. And for wood, the same applies. Zero clearance units save on masonry costs but the chimneys are pricier again as they get larger and require more setbacks from combustibles. If you are lucky and have a good sized but out dated brick chimney, then look to the high efficiency inserts available. Be sure to always check with your home insurers first before planning an install. You will want a unit with doors that seal as open fireplaces are no

longer code compliant due to heat and air loss. Phone the pros at South Island Fireplace or Granny’s Wood Stove for a free estimate. And remember, Pacific Energy is a local manufacturer of high quality gas and wood units and employ many in our community. And if your fireplace now needs a visual hand, think paint, plaster , tile or stone veneer in that order of costs. Stay warm!

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

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

sutton group • west coast realty

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Rural Property Purchase

f you are thinking of purchasing a rural property, the Cowichan Valley and its surrounding communities can certainly provide you with some wonderful choices. The search for the perfect property can be an exciting and an enjoyable adventure however purchasing a rural property can come with it’s own set of challenges and you will need to do your due diligence before deciding to go forward. Septic systems, wells, home inspections, riparian areas and property boundary issues are some of the topics you could encounter when buying your home in the country. If you are looking for a home on acreage it will likely have a well for your water supply even though there are some rural areas of the valley that are supplied with municipal or community water systems. Drilled wells are the most common but there are also properties on the market that have shallow dug wells. If you require mortgage lending there will be a requirement for proven water potability. Locally there are some reputable companies that will

come out to the home to do professional water testing, You will also want to obtain a copy of the well log which can be provided by your Realtor ® or found on the government website http://www.env.gov. bc.ca/wsd/data_searches/wells/ The water table can change over time, if there is a concern you do have the option of hiring a professional to test the current water flow of the well. If you are planning on farming or doing some extensive gardening this might be a serious consideration . On that topic, soil testing may also be a valuable indicator. In regards to property boundaries, many people assume that a fence line is indicative of the property line. This should never be assumed. If there is not a site survey available of the property and the property lines are important to you it is advisable to go to the expense of hiring surveyors, as they say, better safe than sorry.

toni@tonib.ca

www.ToniB.ca be licensed by Consumer Protection BC. Mould, rot, insect/ rodent infestation, plumbing, electrical and structural concerns are only some of issues that a qualified home inspector can uncover. More information on licensed Home Inspectors can be found at http://www.cahpi.bc.ca/. Easements and Right of Ways could be registered on the title information provided to you by your Realtor®. One will also want to sleuth out encroachments and unregistered rights of way. It is always best to speak to a lawyer about these types of legal issues as they could affect the use and value of your property. If the property has a stream,

river, creek, lake, pond, spring or wetland, riparian area regulations may affect the way you develop and use your property. Check out this website for more information: http://www.env.gov.bc.ca/ habitat/fish_protection_act/ riparian/riparian_areas.html By working with a Licensed Realtor® that is experienced in buying & selling rural properties one’s stress level can be kept to a minimum and it can actually be rewarding & enjoyable too! Happy househunting! Toni Blitterswyk is an award winning licensed Realtor® in the Cowichan Valley www.ToniB.ca

WE BUILD HOMES FOR LIFE

Obviously a home inspection is always recommended. Beginning in 2009 in the province of British Columbia home inspectors must

Green Living

Single Cup Coffee Brewers, Convenience At The Expense Of Health? Recently there has been a lot of information circulating about single cup coffee brewers and the risk of bacteria growth in their inner parts. Words like biofilm, mold, and slime are thrown out there and certainly don’t make for an appetizing start to your day.

Most brands of pod brewers have an internal water reservoir that once filled for its initial use can never be emptied so its possible that in a dark, damp environment mold and bacteria would thrive. I haven’t been able to confirm if this is a genuine concern but what I do know is that all makers of pod coffee brewers recommend regular descaling because there will be a build up of mineral deposits on internal working parts and this can be removed with white vinegar. Yeah for vinegar because guess what, it also will clean and remove biofilm, mold and slime. Here’s the plan, run undiluted white vinegar through the machine as you would normally brew your beverage, repeat this twice, and then run fresh water through the machine to rinse. Manufacturers recommend descaling every 3 months but I would suggest monthly. If you use your machine regularly there will be more build up and if it doesn’t get much use the chance of bacteria forming inside is greater. It is important to also clean on the external, removable parts. Check your manual for instructions, some parts are dishwasher safe and others need to be hand washed in hot soapy water. Most makers also recommend cleaning the needle that pierces the pod with a straightened paper clip, as it gets clogged and will limit function as well as harbor bacteria. The other thing to consider is the pods themselves. Plastic that is not bpa free, foil top that is made of aluminum and coated with chemicals, coffee and other ingredients that are chemical laden and are not sustainably grown. Add to that the waste of the disposable pod itself is kind of an environmental nightmare. You can purchase reusable pods that you fill with your own coffee, less waste and you know what what your drinking. So the long and short is, there is no need to be in fear of your morning pick-me-up but choose reusable pods made from safe plastic and clean your machine regularly.

Tracey Hanson local mompreneur and owner/operator Clean Choice Eco-Friendly Cleaning Services cleanchoicecleaners. com

Aesthetic Concept Brings Design Sophistication To The Valley

esthetic Concept was founded in 1992 in New York City. We are offering interior design, architecture and consulting services and our goal is to provide quality services. In 2012 Aesthetic Concept moved to Canada, after 20 years of practice and extensive design experience in the “Big Apple”, we emerged in the design arena on Vancouver Island. We are design experts with certifications, registrations and licenses in our professions. Known for our personalized services, our innovative designs and our highly rated quality of work, we take great pride in maintaining a high level of professionalism and customer satisfaction. Our mission statement at Aesthetic Concept is “Accuracy, Excellence, Commitment”. Aesthetic Concept diversified background includes projects classified as residential, commercial, institutional, and industrial buildings with a full spectrum of design services: Programming services, design services, drafting services, consulting services, green design services and home staging services. Those services are offered from the preliminary stage of the project to its final design phase. The result is

the creation of beautiful environments where potential buyers can visualize themselves living in. At Aesthetic Concept we understand the importance of sophistication in today’s society. Sharlene G. Ionescu is a principal and owner at Aesthetic Concept, a firm offering services in the fields of interior design and architecture. A French native of Quebec City, Sharlene is a Registered and Certified Interior Designer who has completed projects throughout North America, Europe and Africa. She has an extensive experience in residential design and commercial design. Restaurant, retail and hospitality projects are a large part of her portfolio. Her various skills incorporate custom furniture designs, lighting design, code/standard analysis and Feng-Shui practice. Mrs. Ionescu is a member of the Interior Designers Institute of British Columbia, the Interior Designers of Canada, and she is a Licensed Interior Designer in the state of New York. She is currently a University Teaching Professor at the Faculty of Arts and Humanities – Interior Design Program of the Vancouver Island University in Nanaimo. www. aestheticc. com

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

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Tzouhalem Spinners And Weavers Guild

he Tzouhalem Spinners & Weavers Guild (TSWG) has been connecting and encouraging Cowichan Valley fibre artists since 1973. With over 60 members, TSWG celebrates and promotes spinning, weaving and associated fibre arts as a medium of self-expression, fulfillment and satisfaction. The Guild also actively supports and funds community education programs, such as the 4H Woolcraft club. Kids learn how to turn newly shorn sheep’s fleece into yarn, and then into felt, woven fabric and knitting. Projects were shown and judged at the Cobble Hill Fair this year. The Guild hosts and participates in many fibre-related events in our community, starting with Distaff Day in January, a spinning event which symbolizes the return to work after a break for the holidays. (Pix available) TSWG sponsors exhibits and demonstrations, including the Cobble Hill Fair, Ladysmith Art on the Avenue, Fibrations show and sale in Victoria, and the Cowichan Exhibition. The Guild sponsored a team in the annual “Sheep to Shawl” competition at the

Cowichan Exhibition. A team of six fibre artists pick, card, spin and ply wool and then weave it into a 72 inch shawl – all in 6 hours! This year’s team, The TAG Team, designed and wove a beautiful black and white shawl inspired by bird feathers. The Tzouhalem Guild meets the second Tuesday of each month at St. Peter’s Anglican Church on Church Road (off Maple Bay Road) in Duncan. Meetings start at 10:00AM. Membership is $35 and includes guild activities, use of the library and guild equipment, sales events, workshops, speakers, etc. Visitors and new members are always welcome! And, speaking of sale… this year’s TSWG Weavers & More sale starts soon! Guild members display and sell their craft beginning November 1st thru December 10th at The Loft Art Gallery, upstairs at Valley Vines to Wines store in the Mill Bay Shopping Centre (near Pharmasave). The sale is open Tuesday to Saturday, 9:30AM to 5:00PM. Plan on stopping by to meet some

of our superbly talented local fibre artists, and get a head start on your holiday shopping list at the same time! For information about guild membership, email TWSGuild@gmail.com or visit http://tswguild.

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Find us at 306 Duncan St. nestled bet ween the Duncan Garage and Rayʻs Antiques

One of a kind, Clothing, Accessories and gifts for the whole family. Each piece is handcrafted with love by artists from around the corner and across BC. For more info or to register call 778-455-4888 DROP IN CREATIVE PROJECTS Autumn prayer ﬂags- $10 Little felting projects-$15 Harvest head Dresses-$20

NOVEMBER

CLASSES

Wednesdays Making Mosaic Mirrors 7pm-9pm $45 + supplies

Collage Thursdays 5:30-7pm $25 The Imagination Station! Fun for all ages. Workshops, projects, activities and more! Drop in and make a personalized card, the weekly craft or take classes.

WEBSITES, EMAILS AND VERBAL LINT By Rick Dennis JUST FOLKS: You never know what you are going to hear during Open Mike at the Cowichan Folk Guild Coffeehouse. Recently I saw an act called Mbira Spirit at the twice monthly event. Singing and playing music from his native Zimbabwe, Tafadzwa and Amy Matamba exuded a positive energy that was palpable. This husband and wife duo love to perform together and it shows. “What I loved about Zimbabwean music is how rhythmic and unique it is,” Amy enthused during the break. “ It is so joyful that you are inspired to dance .... Zimbabwean music was also traditionally used for communication and I love the numerous stories, lessons, and messages that are expressed.” And about those instruments they play .... a mbira is “a wooden sound board with metal keys,” Amy explains. Think of a thumb piano. “It is placed in a ‘deze’ ... a large bowl shape made from a gourd and bottle caps around the outside rim. The deze is used to resonate the sound ... a natural amplifier. “ Amy met Tafadzwa when she traveled to Zimbabwe in 2012 and invited him to Canada as a Performing Artist. He performed in schools and community events between Victoria and Nanaimo. “We fell in love, released a CD, got married, successfully endured immigration, and created ‘Mbira Spirit’ “ A former teacher (“21 years in the trenches”), Amy writes from the duo’s home base in Mill Bay that “Tafadzwa and I are now pursuing our music performance and Diversity education full time, as well as establishing a Cultural Arts Centre on Vancouver Island and in Zimbabwe. We make beautiful, joyous music performing on mbira and guitar, singing sweet harmonies, and dancing with the spirit of Africa ... spreading the message of peace, love and harmony through our music and our presence.” Mbira Spirit has its own Facebook page, videos on Youtube and selected tracks on CBC Music Radio. PS Cowichan Folk Guild Coffeehouse are on the second Saturday on each month at Duncan United Church Hall (7pm).

G s Who’s in for Movember? An Overview Of What it’s all About During November each year, Movember is responsible for the sprouting of moustaches on thousands of men’s faces, in Canada and around the world. With their “Mo’s”, these men raise vital funds and awareness for men’s health, specifically prostate cancer and male mental health initiatives. <image003.png> On Movember 1st, guys register at Movember.com with a clean-shaven face. For the rest of the month, these selfless and generous men, known as Mo Bros, groom, trim and wax their way into the annals of fine moustachery. Supported by the women in their lives, Mo Sistas, Movember Mo Bros raise funds by seeking out sponsorship for their Mogrowing efforts. Mo Bros effectively become walking, talking billboards for the 30 days of November. Through their actions and words, they raise awareness by prompting private and public

conversation around the often ignored issue of men’s health. At the end of the month, Mo Bros and Mo Sistas celebrate their gallantry and valour by either throwing their own Movember party or attending one of the infamous Gala Partés held around the world by Movember, for Movember. The Movember Effect: Awareness & Education, Survivorship, Research The funds raised in Canada support men’s health issues, specifically prostate cancer and male mental health initiatives. The funds raised are directed to programs run directly by Movember and our men’s health partner, Prostate Cancer Canada. Together, these two channels work together to ensure that Movember funds are supporting a broad range of innovative, world-class programs in line with our strategic goals.

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Lucky Dogs...

Give your dog some credit

t is said that our dogs are our mirrors. The attitudes and fears we possess can be seen in our animal companions. Humans are social creatures and we look around us to see how others are responding to a new event. Dogs are the same, they look to us for cues on how they should react to the world as it unfolds. This can make your lives together easier or more difficult. I work with people and their dogs everyday and I can guarantee that a calm, confident person makes for a calm and confident dog. There is a lot to be gained by taking a breath and dropping your shoulders. The most anxious dogs I meet will invariably come with a speech attached. It will sound like this: “He’s a rescue, he’s had a bad experience, he’s very nervous, he won’t let you do this, this or this. I really don’t think this is going to work.” The person will be holding the animal tightly.

The person has already decided the outcome of the visit. The anxious dog hears the fear in his persons voice; he feels the fear through his body. The dog hears and feels “We need to continue to be scared.” Some people wear their dog’s fearful label as a badge; as a permanent tattoo. Dogs can grow and develop and get over fears and labels if we let them. We can help them by putting our own egos aside and looking at our dogs as the developing individuals that they are. One event does not make a life; let your dog let go of the past to be confident. Help is available and I encourage you to seek it. Professional dog trainers know all about dogs and their people. Their experience can help guide you through your dog’s fears, but you still have to step back and allow change to happen. You have to give your dog some credit.

Debbie Wood is currently studying animal naturopathic health and is certified through the American Council of Animal Naturopathy www.luckydogubath.ca

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1400 Cowichan Bay Rd Books Bucknuck Books 250-929-2665 Used books and Local authors Fitness Valley Health and Fitness 250-743-0511 Full service gym/classes Spa and Wellness Reiki Wellness 250 743-8122 Reiki, Foot Detox, Infrared, Acupuncture, Reﬂexology Monet Spa 250-743-6114 Professional Spa services for parties, groups or individuals.

Food Country Grocer 250 743-5639 Bakery, Meat & Produce Healthcare Cobble Hill Dental 250-743-6698 Friendly, Family Practice

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

La Petite Auction House Auction Sunday November 2, 16 & 30 Auction begins at 1pm

ovember is a great time of year to visit Chemainus as it is a little quieter with the crowds of tourists thinning out, and the weather is still warm enough to enjoy strolling along the streets. Visitors can stroll along the path to Old Town and down to Kin Beach and see if the ospreys are hunting – it is amazing to see what big fish the birds can carry! Check out the Sunday Market in the Chemainus Foods parking lot from 11 to 2. Come to the Christmas Crafts Fairs, Dec. 6 at the Legion and Nov. 30 at the Firehall. This year there is a special treat due at the end of November: The new Waterwheel construction should be finished. What was once just a parking lot will be edged with trees and flower borders. A new water wheel-themed seating feature at the corner of Willow and Waterwheel Crescent will allow the ice cream cone munchers and coffee sippers to enjoy the sunshine. .A decorative plaza will spread out in front of the museum, and what will be the new Visitor Centre, with space for an entertainer, trees, picnic tables and a great view of the harbour. Chemainus Theatre: Over the River and Through the Woods and Jill Louise Campbell painting exhibit until Nov. 8. Sherlock Holmes and the Case of the Christmas Carol, Nov. 21 – Dec. 22. Don’t forget their wonderful dinner theatre option. Add overnight accommodation and enjoy the perfect getaway – The Best Western Plus Chemainus Inn (www.chemainushotel.com) or some of the delightful B&Bs

(www.cabba.ca). Check out their theatre packages. Remembrance Day: Before the official ceremony begins at 11:00 a.m. you may want to take a tour of the murals showing Chemainus’ proud military history. Mural #26, Chemainus, the War Years, shows members of the 67th Battalion leaving for WW I, and can be seen at the corner of Oak and Maple Streets. Mural #34, Letters from the Front, on the side of the post office on Willow Street depicts the written connection between families and their loved ones in the trenches, and Mural #38, Passing the Torch is on the Legion wall on Chemainus Road, and depicts two WW II veterans and representatives of the younger generation. Lest We Forget!

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is bothering the crotchety detective. And thus, the Christmas mystery begins. Before the night is over, Holmes is forced to face the ghost of his great enemy Professor Moriarity, the memory of his lost love, the chaos that results from abandoning his work, and finally, a terrifying future. Before morning, he must deduce where his higher purpose lies.

Sherlock Holmes

he Chemainus Theatre Festival debuts a holiday mystery this season. A comedic drama of Victorian tradition and literary novelty, unwrapped for the first time in Canada. Sherlock Holmes and the Case of the Christmas Carol is a cheerful case of solving “who you are, and what you will become.” The all-ages show starts November 21 and runs for four weeks. Tickets are available now at the Festival box office, and chemainustheatrefestival. ca. The reimagined story, by Seattle playwright John Longenbaugh, is a clever blend of two well-loved classics. After being presumed dead for three years, a hardened Sherlock Holmes resurfaces feeling dark and ill-natured. Tired of solving crimes, and in a thoroughly Scroogey-spirit, he has concluded that early retirement is his only option. No one, not even the abundantly cheerful Dr. Watson, can puzzle-out what

Sherlock Holmes and the Case of the Christmas Carol is an amusing alternative to standard holiday entertainment. The well-known stories and characters are renewed in clever circumstances, which offer audiences a fresh way to enjoy a “smart, witty and fun... holiday diversion,” (Seattle Times). A break from the normalcy of the season is exactly what The Chemainus Theatre Festival hopes to celebrate with audiences. Their gift is a couple of hours to forget the shopping, cooking, snow-shovelling stressors, and enjoy the mash-up of two iconic tales. For director, Mark DuMez, bringing this Sherlock to Canada for the first time is an exciting opportunity, “this show is a delicate balance and an ingenious combination – watching Sherlock track the mystery of his own future. He’s replaced love and spirit for cold, hard reason – and we get to watch him, along with a few other literary figures, work out the sleuthing and then, remarkable conclusion. The choice to produce an original, all-ages show was made for audiences to do doubleduty this Christmas. “A performance can be both a gift and celebration for families and friends,” says Michelle Vogelgesang. “Sherlock makes shopping easy because the fun combination of stories means show tickets suit everyone. And since this is the Canadian debut, it’s an excellent way to surprise those who seem to ‘have it all’ on

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All Jazz Shows $10 unless stated

Sunday, Nov 2 • 2-5 pm Tom Vickery & Company “Shades of Shearing” Sunday, Nov 9 • 2-5 pm Marisha Devoin & Cam Wigmore Sunday, Nov 16• 2-5 pm Ralph Barrat (vocals) with Tom Vickery Sunday, Nov 23 • 2-5 pm NMA Big Band (Bryon Stovell) Sunday, Nov 30 • 2-5 pm Nick LaRiviere R&B Sounds

1534 Joan Avenue Crofton Santa’s list.” Enjoy the artful presentation, Sherlock Holmes and the Case of the Christmas Carol, from November 21 to December 22 (matinee and evening performances, including complimentary “talk-backs” on Wednesday with the cast and crew), at The Chemainus Theatre Festival. Purchase tickets now by calling the Box Office 1-800-565-7738 or visit chemainustheatrefestival.ca.

•Release trapped emotions and find health and happiness •Take down your heart - wall and welcome in your hopes and dreams •Achieve self-confidencePioneering reflex inhibition and integration work

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Ladies Night Fun Pipi Home Decor Original Art for Everyday Living., Hand-painted ~ washable textiles

Old Crow Jewelry Boutique is located under the Bakery, in the Heart of Cowichan Bay. We will be offering Wine, Bites, and Great Sales to Celebrate Ladies Night!

Fentiman Avenue Taste testing of local artisan foods such as Lisa’s Own, Dads Awesome Sauce and Vancouver Island Salt co. Antiques and Vintage chic. Beautiful hand created jewelry, clothing and leather goods

Kim’s Beach interiors. Making homes beautiful. Making you beautiful. Home Wear. You Wear. In store specials and chocolate....ladies get ready to be enticed.

THE SECOND HANGER BOUTIQUE CONSIGNMENT

SIP & SHOP 11-3pm

PRE-CHRISTMAS EVENT Saturday, November 22 LOOKING FOR CHRISTMAS AND CRUISE WEAR NOW! PIONEER SQUARE MALL, MILL BAY

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We have many new fresh pots at the Mud Room! Stop by for a tasty treat and check them out, they won’t last long!

Check out the new Fall Arrivals at Radway ~ GIFT DRAW with every purchase over $20 ~ FREE draw to win a pair of Padraig Cottage slippers!

Cow Cafe Westcoast Grill, $5 Appy menu!Take a break from shopping and join us for some appies! For reservations call 250.597.4353.

Spinning Ninny is back in the bay for one night only!!! Come on down to the mimi pop up shop for Ladies Night and check out all the locally made clothing and one of a kind gifts. Win “NINNY POINTS” for the Duncan Location with every purchase!!!

arts events

POG Show At Portals POG (Printmakers Only Group) will be having their 23rd Annual Show & Sale, The show features original, hand-pulled prints including etchings, linocuts, woodcuts, serigraphs, embossing, collagraphs, monoprints and more. There will be printmaking demonstrations Wednesdays and Saturdays. When the show ends, works from it will be moved to the Cowichan Theatre Gallery and will be displayed along with other POG works until the end of November. Pressed & Pulled”, runs to November 8, 10am - 5 pm, PORTALS — the Cowichan Valley Arts Council Centre for Arts, Culture & Heritage, 2687 James St, Duncan, (Island Savings Centre) Phone 250-746-1633 for more info.

Evan Kreider

people, places and things. “We are delighted to host Evan Kreider. Our goal is to provide a forum for photographic education and street photography has been a popular request in our club,” says Brent Browning, president of the Ladysmith Camera Club. Everyone is welcome to attend the meeting which will be on Tuesday, November 25, at 7pm at Hardwick Hall, High Street at 3rd Avenue in Ladysmith. $5 for non-members. www.LadysmithCameraClub.com kreiderskorner.blogspot.ca

Deadbeetz Food Truck! • 20 lucky patrons will receive a swag bag of vendor goodies! A Show Of Hands Winter Market, November 29, 10am - 6pm. Farmers Institute Hall - 3550 Watson Ave, Cobble Hill, http://petalsandplanks.wix.com/a-showof-hands

Participants Gear up for Traditional Japanese Woodblock and Yuzen Fabric Dye Workshop

here are no short cuts to the intricate art of Japanese woodblock and fabric dying. The centuries-old techniques used to decorate fabric, including kimonos, follow a step-by step formula steeped in structure, science and infinite patience. Each step must be carefully mastered before moving on.

Avenue Q Avenue Q, (Arts Club Theatre Company), is the Tony Award-winning Broadway Musical for adults - hilarious and irreverently witty with a warm fuzzy heart. Young Princeton searches for his purpose in life among an unlikely community where puppets rub shoulders with humans. (Not a children’s show). November 12, 7:30pm, Cowichan Theatre. 250 748-7529 www.cowichantheatre.ca

Ladysmith Camera Club The Ladysmith Camera Club is pleased to announce a special opportunity for local photographers to expand their photography into the challenging and furtive world of street photography. Vancouver-based street photographer and educator Evan Kreider will be sharing his methods and techniques for obtaining stylish and evocative images of

A show of Hands Come & experience this exciting new Christmas market in Cobble Hill and spend the day getting your holiday shopping done in style! We are excited to be showcasing beautiful work from over 30 local island crafters & designers. Vendors of home furnishings and housewares, jewellery, soap & beauty, toys & children’s items, paper craft & cards, clothing, bags & accessories, handmade organic sweets, pottery, art and more. Plus family focused activities & entertainment throughout the day: • free all ages craft workshops • live & local music • fun family Xmas photo booth by EA photography • tasty gourmet eats & treats -

“Methodology and process are very important, and it takes time to move through the steps. You have to practice and practice before you can go forward,” explains Erin Wittke, who studied ‘tegaki yuzen’, (free hand painting on fabric without wooden blocks) while completing post graduate studies in oceanography in Japan. After more than a decade abroad, Erin returned home to Invermere four years ago with a wealth of information about kimonos (she has her own collection), fabric dying and design. “Much more interesting than oceanography”, she laughs. Erin looks forward to the upcoming interactive workshop with Master Tetsuo Koyama, November 22 to 26, at Studio G Art in Duncan, BC. A landmark workshop for fabric artists,

Fibre artists Thelma Newbury of Surrey and Marcy Horswill from Cumberland BC., are also eagerly anticipating the workshop. Thelma says that she has always been interested in the traditional woodblock and dye methods. “I may not use it in a big way, but knowledge is a good thing,” she says. She hopes to get some practice carving her yellow cedar wood stamps before the class starts.

16th Annual

Nanaimo Artwalk

this is the first time Master Koyama has travelled to North America to share his unique wood block printing techniques. There are currently fifteen participants registered in the course, sponsored by the Cowichan Valley Arts Council. (http://www. cowichanvalleyartscouncil.ca/)

Marcy is particularly pleased that the workshop is divided into small, manageable segments and as such will not be intimidating. As Master Koyama is in his eighties participants will benefit from his years of wisdom, experience and skill, she notes.

Image courtesy of Tamarah Ney

Saturday, November 29 and Each artist will be Sunday, November 30, 2014 instructed and guided in the decoration downtown and old city quarter of a forty by sixty for artist bios, brochure and map, visit: centimetre piece http://nanaimoartwalk.jimdo.com of cotton fabric. http://www.facebook.com/NanaimoArtwalk Fabric artist Yuko 11 am to 5 pm Yamamoto, a resident of the Cowichan Valley and former concept is unique to this workshop and one student of Master Koyama, will translate and that emphasises the Master’s excitement assist. Because of the complex nature of the about bringing this technique to Canada. yuzen woodblock technique and to ensure By CVAC writer-member, that workshop participants make the most of Veronica Scott their time with positive outcomes, each will have a ‘design conversation’ in advance with Ms.Yamamoto and Master Koyama. This

film & music Family 5 Rhythms In times gone by children would be a part of the dance and music created by adults. In our culture there is a separation, where children do not have the pleasure of witnessing their parents sing or dance in total joy and abandonment. Come and dance, show by example the freedom and transformation that can happen when we move our bodies, have fun and tap into our essence. Lead by Shauna Devlin, a Mama of 3, who knows deeply the medicine of dance. November 2, Sunday, 10:00-Noon, The Chapel at Providence Farm, $10-$15 Sliding Scale ~ Kids Free, www.shaunadevlin.net 250-709-1921

Jeremy Walsh & Ivonne Hernandez This duo has a winning chemistry. Their material includes Irish, Scottish and French Canadian traditional tunes, as well as their own contemporary original songs. Jeremy is a multi-instrumentalist, expressive vocalist and a fine songwriter. Ivonne has a real feel for the Celtic fiddle, but her music also reflects a marriage of cultural influences. And she is the reigning five-time Grand North American Fiddle Champ.Cowichan Folk Guild Coffeehouse on Saturday November 8th, featuring Ivonne Hernandez & Jeremy Walsh Duncan United Church 246 Ingram St. Duncan, Doors 7pm. Open Stage starts at 7:30 pm, $10/ $5 for CFG members http://www.jeremywalsh.ca

Dramatic Gypsy Cabaret Magnolia Debut Tour “Dramatic Gypsy Cabaret” - a brand new genre of music - is coming to Vancouver Island with three sensational shows. Vocal powerhouse, Cari Burdett, a long-established musician, is now revealing her passion and vision with her debut album, Magnolia. Cari Burdett brings huge energy to the stage with drama, movement, and a boundless well of creativity. Magnolia is Burdetts heart and soul. Brewing for the past 20 years, it is inspired by the love she carries for life, her passion for travel and the global community, the many languages she has embraced, her classical operatic training, her family, home, and gypsy roots...they are all bound together by this dramatic music. Cari has lived in Sweden, Italy, England, and Canada, opening her heart to many experiences along the way. Burdett is steeped in opera, improvisation, jazz, theatre and dance, all of which illuminate an array of wells that have brought her to the creation of the Dramatic Gypsy Cabaret style pulling the old tradition of cabaret forward to current times and delivering its true essence with emotion and significance. French, Italian, Swedish, Spanish and English are all flowing despite the heavy Canadian content highlighting composers such as Anna Höstman, Christopher Butterfield, Anne Schaefer, Joni Mitchell and Timothy Francis. A perfect gem of original Canadian web and weave. The Magnolia pre-release tour will bring this exciting new genre of music to you with a roster of amazing musicians, many of whom are featured on the album produced by Juno Award winning Joby Baker. Adrian Dolan accordion - violin, Quinn Bachand on guitar, Richard Moody - viola, Miles Black - piano, and Adrian Lapp and of course, Cari - voice. Saturday Nov. 15th 1:30pm. Sylvan United Church, Mill Bay. Tickets online at Eventbrite or at Ten Old Books/ or at the door. www.Cariburdett.com

Eye Opener Film Series is Ten Years Old It’s been ten years since Bill Abram of Cowichan Coalition’s Eye Openers showed the organization’s first film, ‘the Corporation’ to a large and wildly appreciative Cowichan audience. Setting the precedent in social justice and educational film presentation, in 2004 Celia and Bill Abram’s bi-weekly film series inspired many local citizens to examine emerging issues while becoming active in paradigm shift. In 2014, the mission and legacy of the film series continues with volunteers Diana, Melody, Ken and Tracy. The Eye Opener Educational Film Series now screens significant documentaries periodically and partners with local organizations, including Duncan United Church’s Social Justice Committee. In a remarkable coincidence of timing, ‘The Corporation’ has just released a ten-year anniversary remake of the original film which opened the Eye Opener Film Series. To celebrate, Eye Opener Educational Film Series and Social Justice Duncan United Church present ‘The Corporation (10)’. Where the original film made clear the psychopathic

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

nature of the corporation, the updated film presses us to rescue our democratic institutions from corporate corrosion and corruption. By stating that corporations, by definition, are unable to be genuinely socially responsible, and that they would rather ‘pay the fine than do the responsible thing’, it remains to ordinary citizens to solve the ethical, ecological and economical crisis. The film concludes that the ‘dangerous, risky and difficult work’ of this paradigm shift demands both courage and inspiration. To fully explore these issues, the film is presented in two parts at 7pm on two consecutive Thursdays with discussion to follow. This much-anticipated film event is certain to challenge and inspire. The Corporation (10) film and community discussion with invited guests screens on November 13th and 20th, 7pm at Duncan United Church. Admission, as always, is free or by donation. More information: Tracy 778 455 0437.

Multimedia Exploration & Book Launch Great Bear Wild: Ian McAllister Conservationist, photographer, and longtime Great Bear Rainforest resident Ian McAllister, takes us on a deeply personal journey from the headwaters of the region’s unexplored river valleys down to the hidden depths of the offshore world. Globally renowned for its astonishing biodiversity, the Great Bear Rainforest is also one of the most endangered landscapes on the planet, where First Nations people fight for their way of life as massive energy projects threaten entire ecosystems. McAllister’s new book Great Bear Wild, a stunning collection of photographs and personal narrative, is the product of twenty five years of McAllister’s research, exploration, and campaigning for the spectacular area he calls home. Ian McAllister is a co-founder of the wildlife conservation organization Pacific Wild and will be presenting at the Quw’utsun Centre in Duncan at 7PM, November 1. www.pacificwild.org

Two Choirs to Perform Fundraiser Concert for Providence Farm

Island Soul Choir, under the direction of Karla Mundy, is all about the love of singing. Members come from all over Vancouver Island, as well as some nearby islands, without necessarily having any prior choir experience, just to sing in this community choir of about 130 members that meets once a month to rehearse. The choir’s repertoire includes gospel, spirituals, world music, blues, pop, soul, R&B… basically any type of music that touches, moves or inspires the soul. Duncan Choral Society is a community choir whose members are of varying ages and musicality, and they ALL love to sing! The choir, under the direction of Susan Doughty, is 35 to 45 voices strong and is always looking for more singers to join. Founded in July 1982, they perform two concerts each year, in January and May, as well as at various care homes in Duncan each Christmas. In the past, they have performed at charity functions and public events, most notably the Olympic Torch Relay and the City of Duncan Centennial celebration. Providence Farm will host a reception following the concert. Better Together will be presented by Island Soul Choir and Duncan Choral Society on Saturday, November 22 at 7:00 pm at Duncan Christian Reformed Church. Tickets are on sale at Volume One Bookstore, Ten Old Books, Providence Farm and at islandsoulchoir.com.

Island Soul Choir and Duncan Choral Society will be performing for the first time together on at Duncan Christian Reformed Church. The soul-inspiring program entitled Better Together reflects a desire to bring the Island together through the love and joy of singing to help wherever we can. In that vein, all proceeds from the concert will be donated to Providence Farm, a non-profit organization that is committed to serving the needs and fostering people in the Cowichan Valley, especially those not easily accepted elsewhere, with their therapeutic community. The Farm runs a number of creative and innovative therapeutic programs for adults and seniors with mental health and age-related illnesses, brain injuries and developmental challenges: tending the animals, caring for the grounds and market gardens, learning culinary skills, vocational training in the furniture shop and small engine repair shop, and exploring artistic skills like For more info visit our website: sculpting, painting, www.warmlanddance.wix.com/cowichan knitting and weaving.

A live edge bed frame designed and built by David Martinello.

David Martinello www.damartinello.com alternativewoodworks.com

reat things are happening with the local artisan furniture making company Alternative Woodworks. Since its creation back in 2006 by David Martinello, mentioning the Cowichan Valley has always been part of the sell. Working predominantly with Western Maple harvested with conscience from our region; merchandising to galleries in Whistler, Vancouver and elsewhere there is a definite advantage in marketing the Valley as a place that things are made. Accounting the importance of sharing with immediate neighbours as well as

Alternative Woodworks international travellers, David ran Points Art Gallery in Duncan from 2010-12 to promote his and other local Art to the warmland. Thankfully today Alternative Woodworks is being showcased in Duncan again with the recently opened Resthouse

COWICHAN FEATURE LISTINGS Lynda Allen 250-748-0934

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

Metal Artist Brad Allen MEDDLEART.com • Metal Wall Hangings • Free Standing Sculptures • Garden Art & Custom Works Studio located in Duncan by appointment Brad Allen 250 748 0934

David Martinello

Sleep Solution bedding company. Located at 340 Brae rd across from the Mercury Theatre, Resthouse has selected to have Alternative Woodworks as their chief supplier of bed frames and accent furniture. Available in addition to the one of a kind pieces that Alternative Woodworks is known for with the ‘modern rustic’ aesthetic, a smart bed frame named Sonhos has been developed for Resthouse. The Sonhos (meaning ‘dreams’ in Portuguese) is crafted in thick, solid maple and is designed with several options. Interchangeable 13, 23 and 33 inch high good-all-side

headboard/footboard components allow sections to be mixed and matched with standardized rails to meet individual wishes. Of course custom orders can be taken to craft all your furniture needs, and with financing available at Resthouse through Island Savings the functional Art of Alternative Woodworks is easily accessible to all. Go to www.alternativewoodworks. com to see archived artworks from David and learn more about Alternative Woodworks and also check out www.resthouse.ca.

FIND us at Spinning Ninny 360 Duncan St, Duncan November 26, 10am - 6pm A Show of Hands Cobble Hill Hall

Rhodo blossoms by Bryan Harvey

oin us in celebrating 26 years of excellence at Out of Hand this November 28 to 30 at the Crystal Garden, in Victoria. For 26 years Out of Hand has brought the latest artists, designers and artisan food producers to downtown Victoria in an eclectic exposition of artistic and personal expression. The show producers relocated to the Cowichan Valley 7 years ago and are excited to showcase so many creative Artisans from this region. With ten artists from the Cowichan Valley and 13 from Salt Spring Island representing everything from artisan food, designer clothing and accessories to fabulous home décor, Victorians will get more than a taste of what this valley has to offer. To see who is attending the show, check out the web site www.outofhand.ca Producer Froehle-Schacht says “This valley raises the bar for creativity. There are so many artists, food producers, innovators and designers here and we are proud to live among them. Since we moved from Victoria we’ve been infected with this creative bug to the point of feverishness!” In addition to organizing one of the most prestigious craft fairs on the Island, Froehle-Schacht and her husband Stephen Schacht run an organic farm and sell their produce at the Duncan Farmers market every Saturday under the banner, SOL Farm. And if that isn’t enough, they recently opened a distillery on their farm with their son Jeremy Schacht, and are producing a premium gin from 100% organic BC agricultural products. Ampersand Distilling Company launched their gin last month at the Savour Cowichan event on the barge, and sell it at the Duncan Farmers Market. They will be attending the Out of Hand Fair as well, pouring samples and promoting

Out of Hand Craft Fair

Imagine That! Artisan Bryan Harvey

t has been an exciting and busy year for Lake Cowichan’s Bryan Harvey. Earlier this year the award winning photographer edited and prepared photographs for two respected, juried shows on the South Island. After adjudication, two pieces were accepted for this summer’s Sooke Fine Arts Show, and one photograph was chosen by jurors for the Sidney Fine Art Show in October. During the summer, Bryan unexpectedly received an unsolicited email from American artist and actor, Thom Bierdz. The former Young and Restless star is now the president of The American Art Awards (www. AmericanArtAwards.com). This international online competition invites entries from artists worldwide, which are then judged by 25 of the top galleries in the U.S. Mr.Bierdz was impressed by Harvey’s work and encouraged him to enter. Harvey chose to submit two photos that had been peer reviewed by the Sooke Fine Arts Show jurors. Harvey’s “Dream Vacation” won third place in the A.A.A.’s “non-manipulated photography –

landscape” category. This award winning piece will be on display at Harvey’s upcoming show at Imagine That! Artisans’ Designs Gallery, in downtown Duncan. Harvey’s movement away from software manipulation in his work brought him a challenge. He decided to test himself by using an analog process that did not require imaging software. He built an ultra large format camera, enabling the use of 11”x14” film negatives to make contact prints on photographic paper. A silver gelatin photograph using the above camera and film was accepted for display at the Sidney show. This limited edition contact print will also be exhibited at the upcoming Duncan Show. The exhibit will run to November 22nd. .Imagine That! Artisans Designs is located at 251 Craig Street, just across from historic red brick city hall in downtown Duncan. You can see more of Bryan Harvey’s work at www.larkphotogrpahy.ca.

their gin in Victoria. With a view to the future, Out of Hand has always provided an opportunity for young artisans to participate alongside established and well regarded veterans in their field. Both the Emerging Artist section of the fair and the Etsy Boutique allow up and coming artisan’s exposure to the Victoria market in a professional setting. If there is a trend among new artisans, it is to up-cycle and re-purpose! Many young people are designing home and personal accessories around the sturdy tweed, luxe cashmere and Grandmas cast off silver service found in thrift stores. So plan a trip to Victoria, visit the fair, enjoy afternoon tea at the Fairmont Empress for 20% off with your Out of Hand ticket, meet new artisans and see old friends in the lovely Crystal Garden It’s a great holiday tradition! Image above. silk screened shirt by local designer Cherry Blossom

The Magic of Christmas - let’s keep it alive...and local!

C McCulloch

Sunday, November 2nd Sidewalk Sale Friday, November 28th - Christmas Kick-Off

he most wonderful time of the year is just around the corner and the merchants of Downtown Duncan would like to invite you to two great upcoming local events!

115 Kenneth Street, Downtown Duncan tel: 250-746-9809

First up is Downtown Duncan’s 6th Annual Sunday Sidewalk Celebration happening on November 2nd from 11am - 3pm. Colourful balloons will invite you to browse the incredible sales inside and out of participating businesses. It’s a perfect time to begin your holiday season shopping...less hustle, less bustle, and you’ll spend less money! Then join us for the much-loved seasonal Downtown Duncan tradition of Christmas Kick-off on Friday, November 28th from 5:30 - 8:30pm. This is always a special night as the community gathers in Downtown Duncan to share in the magic of Christmas. Carols will be sung and played by community choirs, community bands, wandering carollers, and the Smiley Family Band will be entertaining the crowd as well. Chestnuts will be roasting and lights will be sparkling from the community Christmas trees that have been donated and decorated by local businesses and service organizations. Spread Christmas cheer and laughter as you hitch a

hayride provided by Providence Farm, then treat yourself to a hot beverage and bite to eat from one (or two) of our fabulous downtown restaurants or the concessions set up for the evening by various local non-profit organizations. Be there to welcome Santa as he arrives on the roof of City Hall at 6:30pm and stay to visit with him,

take a picture, and maybe share with him what you’d like for Christmas. Adding to the enchantment of this evening is the warm glow emanating from the many independently owned businesses who stay open late to welcome you in from the cold to browse or shop. Read books, try on some fabulous winter fashions, play with toys, and get some wonderful gift ideas. Shopping locally allows you to honour the values of an old-fashioned Christmas season by supporting our friends and neighbours who work hard year-round to provide an excellent selection and a positive personal shopping experience for us. This year’s Christmas mascot is an adorable little penguin - be sure to look for him (or her) in the charming window displays that our merchants love to decorate - a true labour of love and display of Christmas spirit. Each penguin will be uniquely named and outfitted...so slow down and enjoy the stroll down each of our downtown streets as you do the penguin prowl:) And what better way to top off a magical evening than with the awesome fireworks display taking place in City Square at 8pm - you don’t want to miss it! Sparkly lights, cozy shops, greeting old friends (including the one from the North Pole), cute penguins, happy children, hayrides, fireworks... Christmas Kick-off is a wonderful local tradition, so come and enjoy the charm of our very own Christmas village where the magic of the season is alive and well and waiting for you in Downtown Duncan! Soups • Stews • Croissants • Crepes & more!

Everything we do is focused on helping you enjoy the best freshest local & sustainable ingredients.

BREAKFAST - LUNCH - COFFEE 171 Jubilee St., Duncan 250 715 1020

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Store Hours: M-F 10am - 5pm *Open Saturdays 10 - 5 from Nov. 8th to Christmas

190 Fourth St. Duncan, BC Phone: 250-737-1281 Toll-Free: 1-800-404-0622 wool@soulcomfortsheepskin.com www.soulcomfortsheepskin.com

f you book your travel online, here are three good reasons to use a travel agent instead.: #1 - You’ll live longer Stress causes everything from high blood pressure to heart attacks. Booking a holiday online can be stressful. 20% of online bookers spend over five hours navigating websites, finding deals, and deciphering small print. Travel agents are trained professionals with sophisticated systems and will offer advice on everything from a country’s entry visa requirements to local guides by sourcing, calling, booking and confirming. #2 - You’ll be richer - The best prices are rarely found online. Travel sites have deals with different operators and you only see what is in their database. Travel agents have access to special deals and know industry-insider tricks to save you money. #3 - You’ll have a better holiday - Travel agents are your best bet for sold-out flights, fully booked hotels and frequent flyer upgrades. Going on a cruise or safari? A specialist advisor will make that once-in-a-lifetime trip unforgettable. Put multi-stop itineraries in the hands of the experts - they know the shortest routes, best airlines and finest local guides.

Here are some general safety tips for you to follow while you are on vacation: Use your street smarts! It’s easy to get carried away while on vacation, but be sure to hold on to your common sense! - Be alert and aware of your surroundings. Try not to display expensive items like jewellery, cameras, and large amounts of money. Beware of pickpockets! - Avoid leaving your purse or wallet unattended, or in places it can be easily stolen. - Lock your baggage when not present in the room and store any valuable items and documents in hotel safe. - Always keep your hotel room door locked. You can even secure the door with the chain or safety latch while you are in the room. - Only take taxis that are clearly marked.

Submitted by Marlin Travel. A local business with travel professionals available when you need them. 921 Canada Avenue 250-748- 2594

10 years in the Valley

Experience you can trust

Complimentary Consults

Passport to Shop Downtown

owntown business owners are committed to keeping the Cowichan region strong, healthy and a better place for all of us to live all year round. Our many independent businesses stand up in support of numerous causes throughout the year – community groups, sports teams, art associations, hospital foundations, school functions… the list is endless! And that is in reality what makes the fabric and foundation of our community so strong and enduring.

strengthens your community, ensuring that your dollars are recycled back into the local economy. These are the same dollars that support your school playground, the hockey team’s trip to California, the Maternity clinic at the hospital and contribute to building a healthy, thriving community.

What better time to celebrate your community than the Christmas season?

What better time for the community to come together and show their appreciation than during the Christmas shopping season? When pondering that special item to slip into Aunt Sophie’s stocking consider the many shops and services downtown where merchants take pride in buying the unique for their customers and are not dictated to by a national sales plan! Shopping locally builds and

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The merchants of Downtown Duncan invite and encourage you to shop locally this year with our Passport to Shop Downtown. Collect a stamp with every purchase at participating downtown business between November 24th and January 1 for an opportunity to win one of three FABULOUS Gift Baskets! For more information check our website at www.downtownduncan.ca or call 250-715-1700.

Don’t Forget To Vote! Elections Day is November 15 *Please note: The following pages are a selection of candidates who responded to the Valley Voice call out for this special candidates feature. This is not a complete list of all the candidates.Though there are some who have chosen not to participate, others were not able to respond in time for the November Issue press deadline. We apologize for thetight time constraints, and thanks to the candidates listed here who responded. Our best wishes to all of the candidates running. Valley Voice Magazine

WHO’S RUNNING FOR NORTH COWICHAN MAYOR? A BALANCED APPROACH, BETTER OUTCOMES

Under my leadership as Mayor of North Cowichan for nine years, we have worked to develop an economy that enhances not harms the environment. With careful management of our financial resources, a progressive plan for building community and your help, North Cowichan will be the best place to live, work and invest. Authorized by financial agent Joyce Behnsen joyceforcouncil@gmail.com

Mayor Re Elect Jon Lefebure Jonlefebure.ca jon@jonlefebure.ca 250 246-2636

CANDIDATES FOR NORTH COWICHAN COUNCILLORS CITIZEN ENGAGEMENT, PROTECT ENVIRONMENT, NEW REVENUE, THINK AHEAD Mother and grandmother. Balance growth with

environmental protection -- rights of future generations with needs of today. Jobs and affordable housing. Community needs to define what we want, what we need now, what we can wait for and what future generations will need and set tax levels accordingly. Implement the Climate Plan to save citizens dollars and create market jobs. Locals get 8 % of total tax pie - we need higher government to share more.

Incumbent Kate Marsh www.katemarsh.ca katemarsh@shaw.ca

250 246-9705

Authorized by Delores Wagg Financial Agent - 250-748-3973

COMMON SENSE FOR COMMUNITY North Cowichan’s residential property taxes have more than doubled in the past 10 years. In a day when “sustainability” is becoming the definitive buzzword in municipal governance, this is simply unsustainable. I am committed to keeping those increases at or below the rate of inflation for the upcoming Council term. To do this, Council will have to set firm and measurable priorities – something that has never been intentionally done in the past.

Incumbent Al Siebring www.alsiebring.ca siebringcampaign @shaw.ca

250 210-6985

Authorized by Anne Siebring, Financial Agent siebringcampaign@shaw.ca

NORTH COWICHAN IS MY HOME I am a yoga teacher, marriage commissioner and a North Cowichan resident for 22 years. I am passionate about the legacy we are leaving for our children. My vision is creating higher standards for the preservation and conservation of our watershed and farmland and working to encourage economic development that will attract well paid jobs. I believe in supporting our local contractors and businesses and will work for responsible expenditure of tax dollars and more communication with taxpayers. Authorized by financial agent Lura McCallum 250-748-3839

Lura McCallum on Facebook. luramccallum@ gmail.com

250 748-3839

COOPERATIVE, CONSULTATIVE, CONSENSUS DRIVEN, IMAGINATIVE, DEDICATED, HONEST, HAS INTEGRITY I am a 60-year-old self-employed photographer and

photography teacher at Brentwood College School. I have lived in the Cowichan Valley for 28 years and I share my life with 5 children and 8 grandchildren. I am the founder and President of the Somenos Marsh Wildlife Society and have served on the board of Cowichan Wheels for 8 years. I am running for North Cowichan council because I love the Cowichan Valley and because I have the skills and experience needed to work collaboratively and collectively with others.

Paul Fletcher www.electfletcher.com paul@fletcherfoto.ca

250 732-0462

Authorized by financial agent Paul Fletcher 250 732 0462

RESPECT THE ENVIRONMENT, A CLEAR DEVELOPMENT PLAN, VALUE FOR OUR TAXES, A PLACE WHERE FAMILIES CAN STAY My family

moved to North Cowichan six years ago, and we’re here to stay. As councillor my goals are to focus on creating and maintaining a vibrant and healthy community, value for taxpayers’ dollars, improved communication, and positive economic growth to make North Cowichan a place where other families will stay.use of consultants.

Maeve Maguire www.maevemaguire.com

maeve@ maevemaguire.com

250 732-8998

Authorized by financial agent, Patrick Maguire, 250-760-0640 (home)

STRONG VOICE, FRESH PERSPECTIVE I was born and

raised in North Cowichan and am involved in a wide range of community groups. We need leaders with fresh ideas, progressive values and a long-term vision for the community, and if elected my top priorities will be to pursue a more localized approach to economic development, protect the environment, expand local farming, encourage affordable housing, and put our municipality on a sound financial footing.

Robert Douglas www.robdouglas.ca douglas.robert.g@ gmail.com

250 709-0750

Authorized by financial agent Robert Douglas 250 709 0750

LOWER TAXES, REDUCED SPENDING, ACCOUNTABILITY I am a retired Para-legal and small

business owner. High taxation levels and uncontrolled spending have crippled growth, economic opportunities and investment in North Cowichan and are the reason I decided to run. If elected I will request an immediate review of finances, a freeze on spending, hiring and taxation levels. Careful judicious oversight of our finances can reduce taxes without reducing service levels. A focus on growth will set the groundwork to further our efforts to improve our communities and protect our environment.

Peggy Bran www.peggybran.ca peggybran@shaw.ca

250 324-6652

Authorized by financial agent Peggy Bran Campaign 2014, 250-324-6652

TAXES, ENVIRONMENT, ACCOUNTABILITY, MANAGED DEVELOPMENT I grew up in the Valley. Mount

Prevost was my playground. There was a sense of freedom, opportunity, and optimism, even when times were tough. I’ve realized that the Valley I grew up in is in danger. Municipal mismanagement resulting in rapidly escalating taxes and a lack of rational development threatens our continued quality of life. Our community has become divisive on many issues, and has less opportunity for all citizens. I want us to change that.

Nick Caumanns www.nickcaumanns.ca

Authorized by Financial Agent Nick Caumanns ncaumanns@gmail.com

TAXES, ENVIRONMENT, ACCOUNTABILITY, MANAGED DEVELOPMENT •Excessive taxes, spending & debt over the past 10 years •Budgets & Priorities require public approval. Minimize costly consultants. •Protect Environment - removing sewage treatment from the Cowichan River using modern technology. •Support affordable housing. •Create a welcoming environment for business.

Joyce Behnsen www.joyceyourvoice.ca

joyceforcouncil@ gmail.com

250 715-6044

Authorized by financial agent Joyce Behnsen joyceforcouncil@gmail.com

ENVIRONMENTALLY SUSTAINABLE ECONOMIC GROWTH, COLLABORATIVE CONSULTATION, INFLATIONARY TAXES I have been a resident of the

Cowichan for 10 years, have raised two children, own and operate two successful businesses. I am actively involved in the business community, heavily involved in community volunteering. These experiences have given me the ability to challenge the norm and be a positive future for North Cowichan. An advocate for public consultation, environmentally and fiscally sound business growth and spending our tax dollars wisely.

George Gates www.georgegates.ca george@ georgegates.ca

250 701-2197

Authorized by financial agent George Gates 250 701 2197

ENVIRONMENTAL PROTECTION, PUBLIC SAFETY, SMALL BUSINESS ECONOMICS Born and raised in

Cowichan, I’m very engaged in small business development, environmental issues and the continued evolution of community safety. Enabling and supporting community projects with socially active people inspired me to run. I’m excited to offer my skill set in this community, enabling the citizens of North Cowichan through a government that responds, and encourages their vision of how to make our community a better place for everyone. Authorized by financial agent Jenni Capps capps.jenni@gmail.com

Jenni Capps jennicappscowichan. tumblr.com

capps.jenni@ gmail.com

hen out of town friends tell me they are thinking of moving to the Cowichan Valley I have two competing reactions. First, I’m proud to live in such a great place that others want to come to. Then I worry that it’s probably not just my friends, but a lot of people, and that we’re not ready for that. It feels like Cowichan is at a bit of a crossroads, and that who we elect for local government on November 15 will play a big part in which road we travel together. One Cowichan is currently running a campaign to engage people in this election. We recently ran a community survey and were excited that about 700 people took the time to answer. The dominant theme we got back was conservation – a desire to see this great place protected and our quality of life preserved. There are also some collective challenges we face, with the survey indicating the most prominent being water and watershed management. Climate change is changing the game on water, putting municipal infrastructure, fish and wildlife, and lots of local jobs at risk. Who we elect on November 15 will either rise to these challenges, or not. In fact, there is not much about our day to day lives that local Mayors and Councillors do not touch, from what our neighbourhoods look like, to where our kids play, to who – or what – we end up living

Why Vote? next to. Will local councils promote compact multi-use development or will they promote sprawl? Will they create the right conditions for the Valley’s growing local food movement? Will they convince voters that taxes are being spent wisely? Will they pursue reconciliation with one of the largest First Nations populations that we have here in Cowichan? The second most dominant theme in our survey was about democracy and accountability. There is concern that local government could do a better job connecting with citizens not just at election time, but all the time. Many candidates promise more consultation, but what are their specific ideas to actually deliver? In short, there’s a lot to vote for this November, and we’re working to make it easier to see which candidates share your vision. We have surveyed all local candidates and are posting the answers on our website at onecowichan.ca In the past, our voter turnout hasn’t been great, about one third of people showing up to the polls. But it feels like

Authorized by financial agent Robert Douglas 250 709 0750

there’s more energy this time out. Not only did we get great pickup on our survey, but there are also more candidates running. Our recent municipal election social event burst at the seams. As a citizens group we are asking fellow citizens to help us build on this momentum and get friends and neighbours engaged. Studies show the single most effective way to get somebody to vote

is to ask them in person. If each of us did that 25 times, we’d make those ballot boxes burst at the seams too. Don’t forget there are three opportunities to vote this election, on November 5, 12, and 15. Check out your local government website or ours for details. Matt Price is a Director of One Cowichan, a local citizens group

CVRD AREA DIRECTOR CANDIDATES PUBLIC CONSULTATION, WATER AND SEWAGE, COST CONTAINMENT I will hold monthly meetings to keep the community informed. Older septic systems need attention to protect groundwater. Mill Bay/Malahat’s tax requisition has increased on average 8% per year over the last decade from $928,700 in 2004 to $2,342,039 in 2014. Staff wages account for nearly 2/3 of the CVRD budget. I would support a freeze for salaries over $100,000 a year, as spending must be carefully monitored. Authorized by Kerry Davis, financial agent 250-858-2728

CLEAN WATER, SMART GROWTH & DEVELOPMENT My position is on sustainable clean water for the future. Smart growth for our development of future lands. I’ve resided in the community for 18 years and have contributed greatly to its goodwill. I’ve seen lots of changes in growth and spirit I feel our environment has been under undue pressures and will continue from our neighbors from the south and we need a directer who can get the jobs done for our community’s wishes and protection.

Kerry Davis Area A Mill Bay/Malahat

250 858-2728 VoteKerryDavis.ca VoteKerryDavis@gmail.com

Robert Ardnt Area B Shawingan Lake 250 882-7101 robertarndt7@gmail.com

Authorized by Robert Ardnt, financial agent 250 882 7101

SONIA WILL FOCUS ON: Sonia Furstenau • stewardship and long-term protection of the Area B Shawnigan watershed Shawingan Lake • localized and cooperative economic development • community-building and the creation of vibrant sonia.furstenau@gmail.com public spaces 250 812-6136 • open, responsive, and transparent governance

www.soniafurstenau.ca

Authorized by Blaise Salmon, Financial Agent, bsalmon@shaw.ca

EFFECTIVE REPRESENTATION, WATERSHED MANAGEMENT, PROTECTION OF FARMLAND AND FOOD SECURITY Since moving to Area B, I have been

President of the Burnum Park Residents Association, a member of Citizens Together, and I am currently involved with the Koksilah Farmers Institute and on leave from my position as Vice President of the Shawnigan Residents Association, the organization which initiated the appeal of the contaminated soil permit threatening the Shawnigan watershed to the Environmental Appeal Board.

Lois Morrow Area B Shawingan Lake loisforshawnigan@ gmail.com

Authorized by Dewar McCarthy, Financial Agent loisforshawnigan@gmail.com

WATER, ECONOMY, CONSULTATION

I will work to ensure that we have water to drink, fish habitat is protected and other water needs are met. I support development of new sustainable businesses in Area D. I hold regular, well attended town hall meetings. A new Official Community Plan is now in place and I am committed to ensuring it is implemented to meet the community’s vision. Authorized by Larry Lenske, financial agent, 250-715-1007

Lori Iannidinardo Area D Cowichan Bay lori@reelectlori.ca www.reelectlori.ca

INNOVATOR, COMMUNITY MINDED, STEWARDSHIP, SUSTAINABILITY As a resident and full time farmer in

Area E, I am passionate about the area I live and work in! I have a lot to offer my community in achieving sustainability and look forward to working as a director with the CVRD staff, Area E Residents, businesses and fellow directors. It is my intention to maintain and improve upon my Area and the greater community for our future generations.

Dan Ferguson Area E Cowichan Station Sahtlam/Glenora 1Dragonflydan@gmail.com

250 709-9183

Authorized by Dan Ferguson financial agent 250 709 9183

LISTENING MORE, SERVING BETTER I moved to

Cowichan Station with my family to be on the land growing food. As an ecologist and manager I have worked with government, communities and businesses to balance the environment and the economy. Currently, I steer the volunteer team behind the successful “HUB” community space. I commit to bringing my skills and respectful, collaborative approach to local government. Listening more, serving better – for our families and our watersheds.

Alison Nicholson Area E

Cowichan Station Sahtlam/Glenora votealisonnicholson @gmail.com 250 701-0143

Authorized by Financial Agent Alison Nicholson 250-701-0143

Cast your ballots on November 15th! Can’t wait to vote? Advanced polls

November 5th and 12th at Municipal Hall, 8 am to 8 pm

Are you featured on the app? Contact TK@cowichanvalleyvoice.com

had the great pleasure of being introduced to Jon Lefebure in early 2001, long before I considered running for the Municipality of North Cowichan as a Council. What caught my attention while I listened to Jon speak at this event was his excitement about the community of Chemainus he had just moved to and how he spoke with such passion about the Region we all live in. There was such a sincere pride in his voice. Over the years I have learned more about this community centered guy. Politically educated, Jon holds a Bachelors Degree in Political Science from Carleton University. His keen sense of business and development stems from having operated a successful design and build construction business – Lefco Developments Ltd., since 1990. (The business is primarily property management while he has been serving as Mayor of North Cowichan.) He holds a great passion for fine craft woodwork and his enthusiasm as a volunteer fireman for

Chemainus is something to admire. He coached T-Ball for his son, and then went on to coach (his real love) basketball at the senior level for the Chemainus High School. Now, one would wonder how this humble, thoughtful, giant of a man could possibly fit in anymore. Considering all these obligations he has. But he does!! He sat on the School Council for St. Josephs School in Chemainus for 3 years and served the Festival of Murals. Having learned all of this in 2002, it got me thinking. Was it now time for me to step up to the plate, to give back and get more involved? So I did! and with good fortune, this community elected me as a Councillor in 2002. After 12 years on Council, I have decided to retire. I must share with you that my time working with Jon Lefebure has been most fulfilling. Jon as a leader is clever, humble, and gracious. A rare quality for a politician.

The Activities of Jon Lefebure Mayor of North Cowichan He truly is a community helper right from the heart. Behind the scenes, Jon just puts his nose to the grind stone and gets so much done never expecting the praise. Under Jon’s leadership as Mayor, we have had the great fortune of bringing millions of Federal and Provincial dollars into this Municipality, which has helped the Council of the day do so many extra and exciting projects. The new Chemainus River Bridge, the Regional Visitor Information Centre, the Somenos Diking Project and the award winning Climate Action and Energy Plan are a few of the many projects supported by grants.

There is also a personal side to Jon. With his wife, Marlene, he attends Yoga several times a week. He spends summer weekends camping with friends around the Island in his beautiful, home-made, cedarstrip camper. This is just a quick snapshot of the workings of the true side of what make up Jon Lefebure. The man that does it all..... just so the rest of us have a more beautiful place to call home. Ruth Hartmann has been a Councillor for 12 years and has had the greatest working experience working with Jon Lefebure for 9 of those.

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

Neighbours Heather Kaye and Maeve Maguire on Maple Mountain.

Mind the BODY WORK the Soul

November & December Special My Friend Maeve Maguire

y friend Maeve does not rush into decisions. From the new family tent to their recent puppy adoption, Maeve researches and gathers information, listens to experts and examines the facts before committing to an idea. So when she revealed to me she would run for council this November election it all made sense; what a perfect councillor she would make. The decision to run did not come easy for Maeve. A mother of three young girls, Maeve also operates her own communications business and is already very active in her community. To determine whether a seat on council was the job for her, she arranged one-on-one meetings with a variety of leaders and political figures in our region before committing to the race. Did I mention she also has gumption? There are seemingly few rash moves with Maeve - she finds a niche and perfects it. Like her technical writing career, or the carrot salad, crab dip and three time Cowichan Exhibition blueribbon chocolate chip cookies that we have all come to rely

on at our neighbourhood potlucks, Maeve is dependable and consistent. And yet she is not adverse to taking a risk, especially if it’s for someone in need. She volunteers her time on the Cowichan Valley Hospice Reel Alternatives movie committee, helped on the making of the Stolen Hearts documentary film and, for the last two Christmases, has rallied the community to donate a significant amount of new underwear to those in need, with her Operation Underpants campaign.

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*Gift Certiﬁcates available *Referral Program Tracy McGivern Certiﬁed Bodywork Practitioner Saltair, Vancouver Island, BC 250.324.1212 tracy@cedarsescapespa.com

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The best part is that, if elected, Maeve will represent me as a young working mother committed to living in the Cowichan Valley and building a resilient community where we can all thrive. The only downside I imagine is that as her schedule and commitments grow fuller while on council, her award-winning baking may grow scarcer. Go Maeve go! When not working to promote local food and farming, Heather spends her time playing with her family on Maple Mountain.

CITY Of DUNCAN CANDIDATES INCLUSIVE, COLLABORATIVE, PROGRESSIVE, LOCALISED I am committed to a localised economy that

provides employment and living wages; To build a region that invites alternative developments and energy solutions that are supported by bylaws and legislation and I will continue to lead by example and encourage government officials to collaborate, and work together to find progressive solutions. For as Buddha said, “there are only two mistakes on the road to change, not getting started and not going all the way.government officials to collaborate, and work together to find progressive solutions. For as Buddha said, “there are only two mistakes on the road to change, not getting started and not going all the way.”

Michelle Staples City of Duncan staplesforcity.ca michellepstaples@ gmail.com

250-709-7972

Authorized by financial agent Michelle Staples 250-709-7972

COMMON SENSE. HORSE SENSE. NO NONSENSE. NIEL-SENSE. I am an accountant who feels that having

someone on council with a financial background would be a benefit. I feel that amalgamation should be studied to see if it makes sense economically. I believe in accountability and think that the finances should be scrutinized to ensure that the taxes being collected are being spent to improve the look and appeal of the City. Authorized by financial agent George Nielsem, 250-701-0323

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Examine Amalgamation Carefully. Peter has 20 years experience in municipal management at a senior level. Member of the BC and Ontario bars. Peter has practiced law in Duncan for the past 11 years and knows the people and promise of Duncan. Peter and his wife Jackie, who has served Duncan for the past 11 years as a physician at the Duncan hospital, enjoy outdoor activities and consider protecting Duncan’s natural beauty an essential duty. be carefully monitored.

George Nielsen City of Duncan www.votenielsen.ca geohans@shaw.ca 250 701-0323 Peter Lockhart Gordon City of Duncan electpetergordon.ca Club_man@shaw.ca

Authorized by Financial Agent Peter Lockhart Gordon club_man@shaw.ca

CONSULTATION, ACCOUNTABILITY, POSITIVE ATTITUDE, NEW FRESH IDEAS. I would hold monthly meetings to keep the community informI have strong financial analytical skills as well as experience in internal audit & risk management. I have a great attitude and a friendly demeanour. I work well as part of a team and enjoy questioning bias and thinking outside of the square. I have travelled extensively and would add a fresh new perspective to Duncan City Council. Feel free to get in contact if you have any questions/ concerns. Authorized by Travis Peterson (Financial Agent) 250 510 9876

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Travis Peterson City of Duncan facebook.com/ votetravis4duncan petersontravis001@ gmail.com

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C m w W t b a a m b w l P M

y most important job is mother and grandmother. I want a community that is safe for all and was rocked by the murder of a young woman in our Valley. My introduction to council was when I started attending meetings on Chemainus Revitalization and saw how divided the community was on Echo Heights. Disturbed by how rude neighbours were to each other and towards the municipality I thought I’d check it out. It didn’t take long before I became a regular at Council chambers. One meeting I witnessed Council adopting the Official Community Plan. They made a couple of last minute big changes with no input from the community. It didn’t sit right. It was then that I decided to throw my hat in and won in 2011. It is important to me that citizens and Council work together. Communicating openly and listening to citizens, Tribes and other local and senior governments. I believe people have a right to know more than sound bites about the people they are trusting to serve them, so I put up a permanent website and blog at www.katemarsh.ca.

Kate Marsh Shares A bit About Life as A North Cowichan Councillor

One of my most memorable meetings was a public hearing where Council chambers was filled with opposing factions on the issue being dealt with. In spite of how invested each person was in their own opinion, they were polite and respectful as they in turn heard from their neighbours. I was so moved it brought tears to my eyes, for I knew I had witnessed true democracy in action. This is what can happen in local politics, because Council is close to the citizens, we live right there among them as friends and neighbours.

A bit about Council

Council meets twice a month to make decisions and sometimes we meet as Committee of the Whole to make recommendations to Council. Those meetings are a bit more laid back. Councillors are appointed to various internal and external committees. The mayor appoints Councillors based on interests and skills. I was lucky to be appointed as liaison to: Success by 6, Social Planning Cowichan, The Somenos Management Committee and the

Vancouver Island Library Board. North Cowichan has 3 seats on the CVRD and I am an Alternate Director on the CVRD. My most enjoyable post has been as Chair for the Climate Change Advisory Committee. My leadership style is to bring out the leader in others and the Climate team has been amazing, adding so much expertise and elbow grease to get us to an award winning Climate Action and Energy Plan. I also sit on the Chemainus Advisory and Protective Services Committees and sat on the Communications Committee, which was a standing committee that met for a year and came up with a Council Communication Plan. Anyone can call or email councillors when they have concerns. Just today, a constituent told me about a concrete barrier that had been moved to block a handicap parking spot in Chemainus and I was able to call Municipal Hall and inform them so someone could be sent out to rectify the situation. North Cowichan is on a good path right now, with healthy reserves for future expenditures we also have an award winning Climate Action and Energy Plan. If implemented it will save residents thousands annually and create 600 market jobs by 2050 as well as reduce GHGs. Come out and vote on November 5th or 15th and help form your community. Together we can make our future strong. Kate Marsh is a North Cowichan Councillor and Master Facilitator with Virtues Project International.

Keeping Healthy in Flu Season Robin Round is a Chartered Herbalist and Owner of Botanical Bliss. Botanicbliss.com 250-7101276. Facebook:botanicalbliss

It’s CHRISTMAS CRAFT SALE SEASON!

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is almost the season to be jolly, but if you’ve caught a cold or flu, you’ll be feeling anything but. Now is a great time to take steps to help prevent or lessen the impact of viruses when they hit. A healthy immune system is our best defense against the germs of winter. Eating healthy local food, getting a good night’s sleep, exercising and reducing stress are some of the steps we can take, but as we all know, we don’t always take the best care of ourselves.

ginger and lemon when I feel sick. Local raw garlic steeped in unpasteurized local honey is a delicious way to ease sore throat and treat coughs. I chop a few cloves into a cup of honey and store it in my fridge. It tastes great by the teaspoonful and in my tea too.

When I really feel something nasty coming on, I bring out the Four Thieves essential I reach for my echinacea tincture and drink oil. The legend goes like this: four thieves peppermint/rosehip tea with fresh grated during the time of a bubonic plague in France in the 1600’s used a combination of herbs in vinegar to protect themselves from the deadly infection so that they could rob COMPLIMENTARY: the homes of the recently deceased. *Eminence Make-Up Application E S CAPE A modern version *30 Minute Eminence Facial ESTHETICS uses essential Est. Since 2006 *Eminence International Trainer oils including Natalie Kitching will be available cinnamon, cloves, eucalyptus, lemon 3 pm --5 pm to advise on the right and rosemary products for your skin. known for their

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botanicbliss.com anti-viral, immune stimulating and antibacterial properties. I sniff it, steam with it and put a couple of drops on the bottom of my feet before bed. It sure helps. So enjoy the joy and chaos of the coming holiday season with a little loving self-care and the help of your herbal friends! Robin Round is a Chartered Herbalist and Owner of Botanical Bliss. Botanicbliss.com 250-710-1276. Facebook:botanicalbliss

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Natural Birth Control with The Billings Method

he Billings Ovulation Method™is knowledge of her body that every woman ought to have. It is used by millions of women around the world. It was developed by Drs John and Evelyn Billings, validated by eminent international scientists. Successful trials, conducted by the World Health Organisation in 1978, demonstrate a better than 98.5% effectiveness rate when used to avoid pregnancy. By learning to identify natural signals of fertility, a woman uses it to become pregnant and to safeguard her reproductive health. Many couples learn from the book, “The Billings Method” by Dr. Evelyn Billings, (in the Vancouver Island library). The official website: www. thebillingsovulationmethod.org offers much information: how to talk to teenagers, published studies, and internet instruction using Fertility Pinpoint. However, the support of an accredited teacher is invaluable when it comes to applying the four common sense guidelines, explaining what is normal to expect in the cycle, such as the four natural bleeds, and helping her to understand what is happening when cycles are long due to emotional and physical stress, breast-feeding and pre-menopause, or coming off contraceptive medication. Men like the Method especially when they see that it really works and learn that there is some say in the timing for a boy or a girl. It was found in the W.H.O. study that 93% of women return with a recognizable chart of the few days in their cycle when they are likely to conceive and the very many days when it is impossible to do so, after only one conversation with an accredited teacher. The chart accurately portrays ovarian and pituitary hormonal activity in normal typical fertile

and infertile cycles. This slide shows the precise timing of hormones necessary to cause ovulation, as marked on the woman’s chart. It has long been accepted by many physicians that the chart provides an extremely useful diagnostic tool and consider the Method to be the primary treatment of infertility. It provides early detection, diagnosis and treatment of such diseases as hyperprolactanemia, insulin resistance, hyper- and hypo-thyroidism, cancer, etc. Over 50-million couples use the Method in China. The government has included it within the choices for family planning. Moreover, a study, published in the Chinese Medical Journal, 1998, showed a 99.9 per cent effectiveness rate. According to Professor Qian of Shanghai, who conducted the study, in those areas where the Method is taught by accredited teachers, the rate of abortion has plummeted. You are invited to come on Friday, November 14th to chat to those who have used the Method and to enjoy some refreshment. An initial presentation will be given between 5.30 and 6.pm before the social 6 – 7.30pm. Please e-mail: infobillings@ shaw.ca to register.

Sue is the Main UN NGO Representative for the World Organisation of the Billings Ovulation Method™

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

Naturopathic Doctor Karina Wickland

aturopathic doctor Karina Wickland grew up on Saltspring Island and went to UBC to study nutrition in 1995. After training and working as a dietitian in a hospital environment she realized it wasn’t a good fit. “I wanted more tools to help people living with chronic disease.” shares Dr. Wickland. She went back to school to study naturopathic medicine and opened her first practice in Vancouver in 2007. Recognizing the need for naturopathic doctors in the Cowichan Valley, Dr. Wickland opened a new clinic in Valleyview Centre in Cobble Hill a year ago. Dr. Wickland’s practice is a family practice for all ages including prenatal, pediatrics and senior care. “I treat routine ailments like skin problems, digestive issues and sleep disturbance and more complex chronic issues like diabetes, fatigue, pain, autoimmune disease and hormonal issues of all types. I also see people who are acutely ill - most commonly shingles, cold/flu and lingering coughs.” She continues, “Naturopathic doctors (NDs) are unique in health care

because our training combines conventional medical sciences and diagnostic tools with a broad scope of therapies. I use a range of conventional and novel testing methods when necessary and perform physical exams, including pap smears. Like most NDs, I use a combination of nutrition, herbal and homeopathic medicines, physical therapy and lifestyle counseling. I’m also able to prescribe pharmaceutical medications - I don’t need to do this often, but my most common prescriptions are for thyroid or diabetes medications. All naturopathic doctors are guided by the same principles which include treating the root cause of illness, patient education, treating the whole person and facilitating the body’s ability to heal itself.” An expert in her field, Dr. Wickland has been teaching clinical nutrition courses for 8 years at the Boucher Institute of Naturopathic Medicine (New Westminster, BC) and has served as Chair of the nutrition department there for 2 years. Sought after for her years of experience as both a dietitian and naturopathic doctor, she commutes twice a month to the mainland to teach. “I find that my clinical practice and my teaching complement each other.”

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4 Steps To A Successful Bottle Drive

chool’s back in full swing (after a bumpy start), which also means it’s fundraising season again! Chocolates, anyone? Cookies? Magazines? Entertainment Books?!! But what if you’re looking to make some money for your organization and save the planet at the same time? For this, nothing beats a good old fashioned bottle drive. Except, in order to make yours successful it might be time to do away with the “old fashioned” and bring your bottle drive into the 21st century! Here are four steps to help make your bottle drive efficient, profitable, and fun: STEP ONE: ORGANIZE Form a small group of people willing to take initiative and delegate tasks to each person in the group. For example, have one person in charge of advertising, one person in charge of volunteer recruitment, and someone else in charge of sorting the collected containers. Choose a leader, having one point of contact will make the whole process run smoothly. You should also decide whether you want to go door-to-door, or have people drop off their bottles and cans at a central location. STEP TWO: REGISTER WITH ISLAND RETURN IT We have the knowledge, expertise and materials to make your day a success. Registration is FREE, and you’ll want to register well in advance to take advantage of our advice along the way. We’ve helped community groups collect over $95,000 from bottle drives, so you know you’re giving yourself the best chance for success!

saving their containers. Remind people about 1-2 weeks before the bottle drive and again 1-2 days prior to the event. There are countless methods for local advertising these days...use them all. Social media is an obvious choice (Facebook especially) and provides an easy way to post detailed information and connect with the community. Community websites often have places to post local events. Also, don’t ignore tried and true methods such as posting on community boards, advertising in local media, or even handing out flyers (though do be strategic with these for the good of our planet). STEP FOUR: GAME DAY If you’ve followed Steps 1-3 (especially Step 2), then the actual bottle drive itself should be a breeze! Have a big group meeting before you start, so everyone is on the same page. Give a clear outline of what the day will look like with a specific timeline of events. Ensure that everyone involved knows who the leader is and has his or her contact information. Make it fun! Remind everyone why the money is being raised. Above all, thank everyone for coming out in support of your group...especially if it’s a “lovely” west/wet coast fall day. So no excuses now...get out there, make some money, and save the planet! And, while you’re at it, don’t forget that Island Return It Recycling Centres also collect electronics, appliances, and a host of other planet-saving items. (250) 748-2066 and ask for Jen or Eric our managers.

STEP THREE: GET THE WORD OUT! This is where being strategic really counts. Start advertising as early as you can, to give people time to start

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

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

The Cyclists Wishlist

o you have magical memories of getting your very first bike? This season may find you wondering how to go about purchasing a bike for your grandchild (or even for a more mature loved one) to place as a grand surprise under the tree on Christmas morning. Or you might find yourself wondering what to get for that cycling enthusiast in your life. When it comes to purchasing a bicycle for someone else consider purchasing Sale up to 50% offthe bike from a professional bike shop rather than getting a cookie cutter bike from a big box store. In particular a for our Massive Sidewalk professional bike shop will sell you

a well-made and properly assembled go unappreciated. Bike lights are an bike…and most bike stores will have affordable gift and will light up their bike a mechanical support plan in place like a Christmas tree keeping them safer and they may even have a children’s on the road! If you want to spend a little bike exchange program. A bike from more a “trainer” will let your cyclist ride a professional bike shop will be the indoors all winter or participate in spin safer option and will be much easier to class on her much loved road bike rather maintain and repair when necessary. In than letting it languish in the garage all addition, you will want to ensure that the winter. Most independent bikes stores bike shop is willing to swap the bike up will have great suggestions for terrific for one that correctly fits the recipient of and affordable gifts over the holiday such an amazing gift, if for some reason season. the bike does not fit them properly. Sandra Beggs owns If you are thinking about a bike specific and operates Cycle gift basket for your cycling enthusiast Therapy in Duncan. but are a little lost when you walk into wwwcycletherapy.ca the bike store a couple of things Home of the Cowichan come to mind. Valley’s “100 Mile Dawg” One, if that store is where they regularly A locally based, socially conscious shop, the staff will mobile food alternative likely know what your loved one Now serving Nani’s Secret has been drooling speciality condiments! over lately. And To book events call 250 732-5250 two, there are some depotdawgs@gmail.com standard cycling gifts that will never

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mantra is ‘the thought that liberates and protects.’ By chanting a mantra, we engage the busy energy of the mind in a beneficial practice. Chanting calms the mind, reduces subconscious mental chatter and negative thought patterns, alleviates insomnia, stimulates the immune system, and lowers blood pressure.

mantra yoga

Chanting these sacred sounds stimulates the chakras and creates healing vibrations in the physical, mental, and energy bodies. The healing effect of these vibrations takes places whether you are chanting out loud or in your mind. This means mantras can be chanted internally to support you in difficult situations without anyone knowing.

A powerful mantra for protection and ost often upon hearing the word yoga, cleansing is the OM mantra. OM is people think of Hatha yoga (postures). considered the primordial sound of the There are however, another eight Sadie Bartram is a member of the Yogini forms of yoga, one of which is Collective. Sadie teaches Chakra Yoga Mantra Yoga. Mantra yoga is one classes and facilitates a monthly Sacred of the oldest and highest forms Chant Circle at Rivendell Yurt. For more info of yoga and involves chanting contact sdbartram@gmail.com Sanskrit mantras, which are considered sacred sound formulas. One translation of the word universe. The long form of OM is AUM,

yoga for wellness pronounced A (as in father), U (oo as in who) and M (as a humming sound). Chanting the ‘A-U’ sends the energy out into the world and ‘M’ brings the energy back inwards to yourself. Combining this sound with movement can be a beautiful way to begin or end the day. A simple approach is to sit in a comfortable crossed legged position with your hands in prayer position at heart centre. On the inhalation, lengthen your arms above your head. Begin the exhalation with the ‘A’ sound, lowering your arms to the sides at shoulder height. Continue the exhalation with the ‘U’, bringing your arms together in front of you at shoulder height. Continue with the ‘M’ as you bring the palms together and draw them back to heart centre. Practice this for a minimum of 3 rounds. Once you feel complete, let the hands rest on your knees and sit in silence, feeling the vibrations created in the body by this sacred sound.

Belly Dancing With Lara Frees The Soul

ith over 15 years experience in middle eastern dance, Lara Brunschot is a fun and energetic instructor, encouraging self confidence and creative expression through movement. She is passionate about connecting to our inner child, and is especially gifted at working with children. With roots in Windsor, Ontario, she began her formal dance training at 16, and soon after founded “The Art of Bellydance”, her own company based on nurturing womens’ health and confidence. Soon after, Lara landed on the west coast to continue her studies in Victoria, where she quickly became primary dancer and Instructor for “Aiewa

School of Cultural Dances”. With Aiewa, Lara gained years of experience dancing with a diverse group of renowned teachers and performers and the opportunity to tour with a live band. Lara teaches traditional bellydance, with a ‘sleeky to cheeky’ twist. Bellydance liberates our authentic selves, moving us into a state of alignment, and play. Phyiscally, the dance tones our bodies evenly through the isolation of every single muscle individually, using the resistance of our own bodies against gravity to strengthen and stretch. On an emotional level, we release tension, clear our minds, and connect our mind and body. Expressing our truth through movement in a space of unconditional acceptance and support is deeply empowering and facilitates personal growth and expansion. Exploring our sensuality without shame or guilt allows a deeper

freedom and opportunity to honour and celebrate our beautiful unique bodies, and embrace our innate gifts. Lara’s Spinning Ninny Studio is located directly beside the Duncan Garage in the heart of downtown at 360 Duncan St. She has plans to soon offer kids bellydance classes and currently offers a weekly adult class. The classes are accessible and challenging to all levels of dancers from beginner to professional, and everyone is welcome. Adult bellydancing classes begin on Monday November 10 and run for 8 weeks. Cost is $120 for the full session. The first class will be open to drop ins for $15, so come down and join the fun! “Like”Spinning Ninny on Facebook to be entered into a draw for a free Bellydancing Class for you and a friend.

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

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

Aries (March 21-April 19) This month you are passionate about everything, especially wanting to become a better person. You want to experience life at a gut level. “I want to live!” This is why some of you feel the need for deep self scrutiny. Your sex drive is amped and your focus on ex-partners is strong. Many of you will travel or get further schooling. This is also a good time to ask for a loan or a mortgage because other people will give you things. You can also benefit indirectly through the good fortune of your partner. Ka-ching! Taurus (April 20-May 20) For the first time in a year, the Sun is opposite your sign, which means you need more sleep. This oppositional Sun also makes you focus on partnerships and close friendships. Since late 2012, partnerships have been challenged. (Aagghh!) Fortunately, this stressful influence will end next year but it is still present. But ah ha! On the 23rd, fair Venus slips into your House of Marriage smoothing things in a gentle, sweet way for the next three weeks. Very nice. Gemini (May 21-June 20) You want to manage your life effectively. “It’s time!” You want to be efficient and feel confident you can reach out and put your hand on whatever you want. (“My canned goods are alphabetized.”) To succeed, give yourself the right tools and

support materials to do a great job. Buy file folders, labels, shelving, cleaning equipment – whatever you need. You want better physical efficiency and good health as well. Meanwhile, a work-related romance might begin. Tension with partners still exists but subside after the 26th. Thank gawd. Cancer (June 21-July 22) This month is all about vacations, parties and fun invitations to social occasions. Enjoy the arts, movies and the theatre plus playful activities with children. Love affairs and flirtations are energized. Whee! You might meet new love; existing relationships will be rejuvenated. Meanwhile, Mars will make you work hard while retrograde Mercury continues to attract family members to your doorstep. This is a good time to tackle home repairs. “I’m tired of this pail in the middle of the bed. Let’s fix the hole in the roof!” Leo (July 23-Aug. 22) Now your focus turns to home, family and your private life. You want to cocoon more at home and redecorate. Fair Venus will encourage entertaining at home because Venus brings indulgence in good food and drink. With lucky Jupiter in your sign for the first time in 12 years, things are going your way! Plus Mars gives you energy to party and enjoy competitive sports. However, in a week, Mars will rev your engines and help you gear up for December holidays! (“When the smoke alarm goes off – dinner’s ready!”) Virgo (Aug. 23-Sept. 22) Expect an accelerated pace and a busy schedule as you juggle activities and short trips. You

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will start to notice how much beauty there is in your daily surroundings and also how much love there is in your daily world. (Gosh!) What a lovely month ahead! Admittedly, retrograde Mercury slows down cash flow and earning potential. Cheques in the mail are late. Tension on the home front will subside by the end of October. Enjoy short drives and a chance to introduce art or something beautiful to your neighbourhood. Libra (Sept. 23-Oct. 22) Your focus is on money, cash flow and earnings, your assets, your possessions and everything you own. How well are you doing at the art of living? Do the things you own – own you or are you in charge? Are you weighed down by taking care of too much stuff? After all, your possessions are supposed to serve your needs and not vice versa. Nevertheless, you will shop for beautiful treasures for yourself and loved ones. This same influence will help you explore new ways of earning money. Things are swell, kiddo! Scorpio (Oct. 23-Nov. 21) Happy Birthday! This is a lovely time because you are charming, diplomatic and attractive to others. (Now is the time to buy wardrobe goodies because you feel good about yourself.) When the Sun is in your sign (this happens only once a year), you attract important people and favourable circumstances to you. Make the most of this! This is also your turn to recharge your batteries for the rest of the year. All of this helps Jupiter, at the top of your chart, to boost your reputation! (“I’m too sexy for my shoes.”) Sagittarius (Nov. 22-Dec. 21) Your birthday is one month away, which means your personal year is coming to an end. Therefore, this is the best time all year to give thought to what you want your new year to be all about. Instead of letting life just happen to you while you cope with surprises and do damage control, why not set goals and give yourself guidelines so you can steer yourself in the direction you want to go? Setting goals is smart. Successful people know

November where they are going. And give yourself deadlines – that’s the trick. Nothing ever gets done without a deadline. Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan. 19) You’re entering the most popular month of the year! Everyone wants to see your face. Not only will you enjoy schmoozing with others, these interactions will benefit you. Socialize extensively and cooperate with others. Share your hopes and dreams for the future with someone because their feedback will help you. Some of you might begin a new romance. Relations with authority figures and old bosses could be significant. Never burn a bridge. And never take down a fence unless you know why it was put there in the first place. Aquarius (Jan. 20-Feb. 18) This is the only time all year when the Sun is high in your chart, acting like a spotlight on you. Since this light is flattering, you look fabulous to others! This is why people will ask you to do things. Say yes because you won’t have to do anything special to dazzle them. Romance with your boss or someone in authority might begin. All partnerships are blessed with Jupiter opposite your sign. Travel plans could be delayed or cancelled. This is a great time to finish papers or writing a book because retrograde Mercury will help. Pisces (Feb. 19-March 20) You need a change of scenery. Grab every chance to travel for pleasure. Romance with someone from another culture could begin. Meanwhile, everything to do with your job will flow smoothly. This is the time to get a better job or better duties because lucky Jupiter will help you do this; in addition to which, your ambition is aroused because Mars is at the top of your chart. So everything is in place for you to have fun travel and improve your job. That’s it in a nutshell. Not too shabby.

www.georgianicols.com

Interested in contributing to the Valley Voice? E-mail us at editor@cowichanvalleyvoice.com