September 2020 Issue 142 by Cowichan Valley Voice

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2020 SEPTEMBER ISSUE 142 OUR COMMUNITY PLAN I LOCAL SCHOOLS I SAVE THE OLD GROWTH I APPLE SEASON 1

September 2020 Issue 142 Cowichan Valley Voice Magazine Publisher Richard Badman Editor Sheila Badman Contact us at: editor@cowichanvalleyvoice.com 250 746 9319 6514 Wicks Rd, Duncan BC V9L 5V2 Visit us online at www.cowichanvalleyvoice.com Distribution Richard Badman

Proofreader Diana Pink

Calendar Angela Sheppard

Advertising Enquiries Please Contact Adrienne Richards 250 510 6596 e-mail adrienne@cowichanvalleyvoice.com Next Ad Deadline September 15 for October 2020 Issue 143 *Non Profit Community Ad Rates available please enquire. COMMUNITY CALENDAR LISTINGS ARE FREE! Next EVENTS DEADLINE September 15 for October 2020 Issue 143 E-mail: Date, Event Title, Time, Location and Cost w/ subject “EVENT” to events@cowichanvalleyvoice.com Cowichan Valley Voice Magazine reserves the right to, omit and/or edit submitted listings due to space limitations SPECIAL THANKS TO FOLLOWING VALLEY VOICES Cynthia Montgomery, Sonia Furstenau, Kate O’Connor, Judy Bader, Terence Miranda, Susan Down, Craig Spence, Miyo Stevens, Donna Shaw, Bruce McKinley, Bill Jones, Cari Burdett, Barnes and Maracle, Chris Turyk, Jaime Blacklock, Jackie Cleaves, Chantey Dayal, Hayley Picard, Karen King, Nicky MacDonald, Gina Malkin, Ian Locke, Kathie Tenold, Kendra Thomas, Leah Burley, Suzan Kostiuck, Vedrana Ashcroft, Grant Easterbrook, Tina Foster, Dr. Mary Simmerling, Alistair MacGregor, Paul Jutras, Bernie Dinter, Marilyn Palmer, Debbie Wood, Sheila Badman, Rommy Verlaan, Keith and Karen, Jan Thompson, TJ Watt, Genevieve Singleton, Icel Dobell, Irvin Bahnmann, Marilyn Palmer, Robin Round, David Suzuki, Nicolette Genier, Cindy Jolin, 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 courtesy Chris Istace “Mindful Explorer” blogger and photographer at www.ChrisIstace.com This image was taken from the Mt Prevost (Swuq’us) lower summit looking east to the main summit with Maple Mountain, Salt Spring and Mount Tzouhalem in the background. It was shot by Chris in the early morning after sunrise.

INTERESTED IN BEING PART OF OUR PAGES? FOR A 2020 AD RATE CARD CONTACT ADRIENNE at 250 510 6596

adrienne@cowichanvalleyvoice.com

OUR COMMUNITY September Events 5 Buying Local Brings Us Oxygen 6-7 It’s Time For Courageous, Collaborative, and Compassionate Leadership 9 The Hub Annual General Meeting 10 Cowichan Exhibition “Un” Fair 10 North Cowichan’s OCP “Big Picture” Survey 11 Cowichan Community Centre Elder College Celebrates 20th Anniversary 12 HUB Resiliency Through Technology 19 Queen Margaret’s School 26 Sunrise Waldorf School 27 Queen of Angels Catholic School 28 Evergreen Independent School 29 Shawnigan Montessori Preschool Childcare 31 Specially Designed Masks for Little Faces 32 Lightening The Plastic Burden 33 Back To School Got You Confused? Time To Get Creative 36 What Were You Wearing? 44 In Support of a Guaranteed Liveable Income 45 UNMASKED: The Pandora’s Box Of The Valley 58 Our Official Community Plan – Your Call To Action 64 Circular Economy Is Too Important To Be Co-Opted By Industry 68 September Forecasts 69 Directory 70-71 LOCAL FOOD & DRINK Learning About Our Local Apples 8 Vancouver Island Alpine Cooking 20 Crafting Cider 21 Alpine Quark Cake 21 Spicy noodles are the love of my life... 22 Wine Glasses Demystified 23 Think Rustic Cooking For Fall 24 Fruit Save Looking For Volunteers 25 Balsamic Apple Crumble 41 HOME, FARM & GARDEN Fall Colour in the Garden 51 LOCAL ARTS Art: Good For What Ails You 14 New Website, New Initiatives Launched By Chemainus Valley Arts Society 15 Lila Music Centre This Fall 16 Kahnesatake: 270 Years of Resistance by Alanis Obomsawin 18 Warmland Arts Academy Fall Registration 46 Exploring Ancient Percussive Sounds 47 Excellent Frameworks Presents Stéphanie Prest 48 EJ Hughes Paints Boats by Robert Amos September Feature 49 Artist Lisa Riehl Aquamaris Art Gallery 49 How the Flute Called Us! 50 BODY, MIND & SOUL Resonance of the Human Ear Canal 13 The Body Pillow & Healing Sleep 38 I’ll Have What She’s Having! 40 Fall Family Wellness 42 The Benefits of Sheep’s Wool For Joint Aches and Pain 43 Soul Escape is Having A Party 52 Traditional Chinese Medicine Tips for Autumn 56 Natural Heeling Indian Head Massage 57 A Lasting Legacy 61 Equinox Native American Flute Event 66 Fire Cider 66 PETS, RECREATION & NATURE Kinsol Play at Old Mill Park 30 In the spirit of the stay-cation why not do some Forest Bathing 39 Staycation In Style at Affinity Guest House 53 Lucky Dog Things that Aren’t Cruel 54 Fall Paddle Tours at Blue Dog Kayaking 55 Massive Old-Growth Yellow Cedars Under Threat 62 How You Can Help Our Old Growth Forests 63

Community Farm Store Café Open 103pm for Labour Day Farm Store Hours 10-6 2-5380 Hwy 1, Duncan

CVAC Reopens Cowichan Valley Camera Club Show & Warmland Calligraphers 2687 James St, Duncan

8-19

Art shows at Cowichan Valley Arts Council: Warmland Calligraphers (in the Annex), Cowichan Valley Camera Club (in the Gallery). MonFri 11-4 pm, Saturday 12-4 pm.

SEPTEMBER EVENTS

BC Greens Leadership Debate 7-8:30pm Zoom bcgreens.ca/events FREE

1-15

North Cowichan Official Community Plan community-wide survey. The survey is available: online: www.northcowichan. ca/OCP Hard copy surveys can be picked up at Municipal Hall 7030 Trans-Canada Hwy, Duncan or call 250-746-3263 to complete the survey with a staff member. Download a pdf version at www. wheredowestand.ca/survey Survey is open to September 15.

Deadline to register to vote online for BC Greens leader bcgreens.ca/voter_ registration BC Greens Youth Advisory Council Leadership All Candidates Forum 7-8:30pm Zoom bcgreens.ca/events FREE

What Were You Wearing? Art installation addressing Victim Blaming & Rape Myths 10-2pm Charles Hoey Park 124 Canada Ave, Duncan warmlandwomen.org

“UN”FAIR-20 Quilts in the Barn Show Photography, Garden Produce, Arts & Crafts, Flowers & From the Kitchen 10-5pm Cowichan Exhibition $5 Visitors must register in advance www.cowex.ca

Achieving realism with a limited palette, An entertaining slide-talk by FCA artist Phil Robinson. Part of the CVAC speaker series at the CVAC Studio (Cowichan Community Centre). By donation. Small group. 250-746-1633 to reserve.

Meet Your New BC Greens Leader 7-8:00pm Zoom bcgreens.ca/ events FREE

Deerholme Farm Mushroom Dinner The Alps By Reservation Only 4380 Stelfox Rd, Duncan 250.748.7450 deerholme.com

5-6

“UN”FAIR-20 Inspired Pop-Up Show 10-5pm Cowichan Exhibition $5 Visitors must register in advance cowex.ca

5-13

11-13

BC Greens Leadership voting period Sept 5 1pm - Sept 13 11:59pm online & telephone, more information at bcgreens.ca/leadership_2020

HUB Annual General Meeting Cowichan Station Area Association The HUB 1-3pm 2375 Koksilah Rd, Duncan

Native American Flute Event 111pm Come play or listen Local Park rommyflutes@shaw.ca FREE

Living in Lockdown Artful Reflections on the Pandemic CVAC 2687 James St, Duncan cowichan valleyartscouncil.caa Runs to Oct 21

ArtBubble@2 – 2:45 pm Drop in to the Cowichan Valley Arts Council Studio for a lively discussion of four wellknown paintings – this month from the Impressionist era. Led by Rob MacLean. Small group. 250-746-1633 to reserve. CVAC 2687 James St, Duncan

ElderCollege for 50+presents Hawk Migration from East Sooke Park 8-3pm Bring binoculars; warm clothing as lookout can be chilly due to exposure to cool onshore winds; water and snacks/ lunch. $14 To register call 250-748-7529

Lila Music Studio New Season Begins joythroughmusic.com

The Luxurious Organic Retreat in the heart of Cowichan Bay Village.

SEPTEMBER DETOX & GLOW

Book a Detox Activation or Inner Glow Slow Beauty Ritual body treatment and receive 20% off, plus 50% off any Sparitual product

ENJOY 15% OFF YOUR FIRST VISIT

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Located on the lower level of the Oceanfront Suites at 1681 Cowichan Bay Rd.

ever enjoy. She will maybe never know how delicious a very fresh egg from a free-range hen, raised organically, can be. You will never buy those in any supermarket.

Cynthia Montgomery is a concerned citizen who loves living in the Cowichan Valley

very Saturday morning, my husband and I enjoy shopping at the Duncan Farmers’ Market. We love the festive atmosphere, music, the relationships we have developed with many of the vendors and--bonus!--the sparkling fresh produce and bread, the fresh- roasted coffee and the many products lovingly and creatively fashioned by the local people we meet there. What could be better? And yet, there are those who scoff. I’m reminded of one woman who looked at the bags of quality coffee and sniffed when she learned the price. She didn’t appear to be someone who couldn’t afford the small difference, but she huffed off nonetheless. So why would anyone pay more, when they could buy coffee or cheese or bread at a supermarket for less?

Now, not everyone can afford to pay extra for local and fresh, but perhaps they can afford something?

Buying Local Brings Us Oxygen That poor woman was missing out on the quality of a heavenly

cup of coffee. She’s possibly also foregoing the freshest berries, tomatoes and bread she could

But please don’t limit buying locally to the Farmers’ Market! We are blessed with top quality wineries, tea purveyors, furniture makers, cabinet makers, doll makers, dressmakers, jewellers and don’t forget our talented chefs! Not to leave out our gifted artists, in every medium! And then there’s local beer, honey, meat, seafood, milk, cheese, personal products and lots more. Our local goods are not only plentiful; they are of such excellent quality that many people from elsewhere are very happy to pay more! Of these three values-quality, service and price--we can only choose two. But isn’t it strange that things made on the other side of the

planet can be produced and shipped to us 10,000 km with enough profit left over to create 2000 new billionaires (800 in China) and still be cheaper than local products from people living simply? Bizarre! And then there’s the carbon footprint of all those tens of thousands of supertankers plying the oceans to bring us those goods. And consider this: when we go for the cheaper option and buy from overseas, or even the US, we are sending our money--and our own prosperity--elsewhere. This might be almost acceptable if we

were therefore raising the standard of living of the desperately poor of those regions, but no. They, as well as our own communities, are paying the price for our ‘bargains’. In effect, we are mining the prosperity of our own communities and sending it overseas to create more foreign billionaires. When you buy locally, you are supporting local producers and enhancing our local economy. If we spend locally and the local vendors spend locally, we are collectively keeping our money circulating in our community, supporting our neighbours and municipal services. Collectively, we all become more prosperous and our communities can afford to have beautiful streets and neighbourhoods. So spending locally not only supports farmers and vendors, it supports us all. The Green Party has always supported our local farmers, producers and businesses. They breathe oxygen into our communities.

Local Goods Create Local Jobs Build Local Prosperity https://www.bcgreens.ca/

Our Island. Your Pharmacy. Duncan • Lake Cowichan • Cobble Hill • Shawnigan Lake • Mill Bay • Gabriola Island • View Royal FREE PRESCRIPTION DELIVERY - Nursing In Home Daily Medication Administration Compounded Medication - Veterinary Mixtures - Compression Stocking Fittings

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Learning About Our Local Apples

he folks at Cowichan Valley Voice love apples amd are calling out to the community to assist with an apple project just for fun. If you enjoy apples as much as we do and have a backyard apple tree or one close by you like to pick from, please come forth and share some insight to contribute to a community apple archive.

The project aims to map and record information about as many apple varieties that we can find across the Valley. Information about how you can take part is listed below. Thanks in advance for taking the time to consider taking part in this apple project. Weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re excited to see what apples are out there in the community.

HEREâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S HOW TO PARTICIPATE: 1. Send us the name and variety of your apple tree(s). 2. List your apple and describe its taste, markings and any other special characteristics about your apple. Is it tart? sweet? flowery? Is it good for baking or better for eating? 3. Take a photo of your tree and each apple on its own. When taking the photo place the apple on a white piece of paper against a white wall if possible so the colour and markings show up well. 4. Provide the area and road that your apple is located. If you know how old the tree is please include the age of your tree. 5. Email us at info@cowichanvalleyvoice.com with your apple information.

onia Furstenau is not afraid to tackle big issues and embrace bold plans to create a just, resilient, and sustainable BC. She is the leader that the BC Greens and British Columbians need. Sonia is not a career politician, and she, like many British Columbians, has experienced firsthand how frustrating it is when governments make decisions without considering evidence and the interests of local communities. Her first formal foray into politics was in 2013, when she learned that the BC government was granting a permit to allow contaminated soil to be dumped at the headwaters of her community’s drinking watershed. Sonia joined with her community to organize and stop the contaminated soil dump, getting elected as regional director in the process. After three years of continuous advocacy, the Ministry of Environment made an unprecedented decision - they revoked the permit. Months later, Sonia was elected as MLA for Cowichan Valley and continued to fight for change. In October 2018,

It’s Time For Courageous, Collaborative, and Compassionate Leadership legislation was introduced to fix the broken professional reliance system that led to the Shawnigan permit being issued in the first place. As leader of the BC Green Party, Sonia will fight for every community across BC the way she fought for her community in Shawnigan Lake. Sonia brings years of experience to the table, including her past three years as an MLA, and she has what it takes to win elections. Sonia is a collaborative leader

who brings people together to find creative solutions to common concerns. She knows that BC is full of people with innovative, exciting ideas for a green renewal, and she will continue to work with British Columbians to realize their transformative solutions. This is a time of great uncertainty, but we have an opportunity to enact real change and reimagine what we want our communities to look like. Sonia will develop a just, green renewal by investing in the infrastructure and the

wellbeing of the people who are the foundation of our economy. As leader of the BC Greens, she will deliver political leadership that is courageous, collaborative, and compassionate. To find out more about Sonia, her vision for BC, and how to get involved, you can visit her website at soniafurstenau. ca. Kate O’Connor is a recent high school graduate from Victoria

A big THANK YOU to our customers and community for all the support, words of encouragement and gratitude we have received during our 13 years in business and especially this past crazy year ... we truly are all in this together! Lulu, Sherry, Sonja and Karen Come in for great natural products, organic produce and so much more!

9738 Willow St, Chemainus 250-246-9838 Hours Mon-Sat 10-5 • Closed Sun & Stat holidays 9

Cowichan Exhibition presents “UN”FAIR-20 September 6-7 10-5pm Inspired Pop-Up September 11-13 10-5pm Quilts in the Barn $5 www.cowex.ca

ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING, Cowichan Station Area Association (The HUB) Saturday, September 19th from 1 - 3 pm The HUB 2375 Koksilah Rd, Duncan Join the CSAA board of directors for their socially-distanced AGM on Sept 19th and find out about the great things that have happened at the HUB and discover more about the people behind the scenes. Agenda: Review of Financial Statements and Election of new officers Current Board of Directors: Hilary Else (President) Melanie Watson (Vice President), Natasha Ayers (Treasurer), Donna Shaw (Secretary), Jeannie McIntosh, Al Mikalishen, Henry Van Hell, Rodger Hunter, Jan Campbell, Amie Roman For more Information: 250-7461794, info@cowichanstation.org or www.cowichanstation.org New memberships will be accepted at the AGM.

This year would have been the 152nd Cowichan Exhibition. We couldn’t find a way to put on the fair, so we had to get creative and come up with a way to bring the community together while staying safely apart. Here it is, “UN”FAIR-20, two live shows for both exhibitors and visitors. “Inspired Pop-Up” and “Quilts in the Barn” are opportunities to show off projects completed during the COVID-19 lockdown. Included are categories for everything grown in your veggie garden, scarecrows (wearing masks), beautiful bouquets from your flower bed, arts and crafts, photographs, cookies, home canning and cannabis, plus all those colourful quilts you’ve been stitching. We have added Dr. Bonnie Henry-inspired classes to honour the amazing job she is doing to keep everyone in BC safe. Tickets are $5 and must •Professional installation be pre-booked online or through the office of hardwood, laminate, 250-748-0822. When and vinyl ﬂooring. you leave the show, exchange that ticket •From small one room for a voucher good projects, to large for $5 off admission to the 2021 Cowichan post-construction jobs. Exhibition! Stay tuned for details on our Contact us for a free spectacular ‘drive in’ in-home estimate and Laser Light Show, September 11, 12 and 13th. Call 250-7480822 or go online www.legacyﬂoors.ca www.cowex.ca

LEGACY FLOORING INSTALLATION

250 304-5311

Valleyview

North Cowichan’s OCP Update Kicks into High Gear with “Big Picture” Survey

orth Cowichan is asking its citizens to envision the “big picture” with the launch of a community-wide survey. The survey is part of the municipality’s Official Community Plan (OCP) Update Project and it asks residents what they like about North Cowichan, what they would like to improve, and what aspects of the community are most important to them. Results from the survey will help shape a vision and the development of principles and priorities for the OCP, a plan that guides municipal decision-making regarding how the community changes over the next 20 years. “Hearing from our citizens and the community is vital to getting this plan right,” says Mayor Al Siebring. “We want to ensure that the community’s voice and vision are reflected in the updated Official Community Plan, and this is a key moment. This survey is your chance to express your biggest hopes for the future of our municipality, and I strongly encourage you to participate.”

ca/OCP or connect on PlaceSpeak at www.placespeak. com/northcowichanOCP Hard copy: surveys can be picked up at Municipal Hall Phone: call 250-746-3263 to complete the survey with a staff member For more information and to learn how to stay up-to-date on the OCP Update Project, visit www.northcowichan.ca/OCP or follow North Cowichan on Facebook www.facebook.com/ NorthCowichan. Background An OCP is a document that articulates a 20-year vision for a community. It is a bylaw that focuses on objectives and policies for planning and landuse. Official Community Plans are used by Council and staff in budgeting, servicing, planning capital projects, and reviewing development applications. They are used by residents and businesses as a reference for investment decisions, and by school districts and community organizations to guide facility planning and service delivery.

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Healthcare Cobble Hill Dental 250-743-6698 Friendly, Family Practice

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Food Country Grocer 250 743-5639 Bakery, Meat, Seafood, Produce, Deli & Floral, Supplements

Cure Artisan Meat & Cheese 250 929-2873 Charcuterie, Cheese House Made Pates

Fitness Valley Health and Fitness 250-743-0511 Full service gym/classes

The survey is open until September 15 and is available: Online: www.northcowichan.

Join us Monday- Friday 11:30am -8pm Saturday & Sunday 10am - 8pm OPEN FOR DINE-IN, TAKE OUT AND DELIVERY! MILL BAY MARINA • 740 HANDY RD • 778-356-3568 www.bridgemans.ca 11

“E

lder College” is an international movement that promotes and provides lifelong learning opportunities for people 50 years or older. The Elder College Advisory Committee and the Cowichan Valley Regional District (CVRD) have collaborated for 20 years delivering programs serving Cowichan Valley residents. In September 2000, Elder College was transferred from the then Malaspina College to the CVRD. With the guidance of the Advisory Committee, the CVRD has expanded and delivered innovative programming to Cowichan Valley communities. Venues have included classroom, studio, and outdoor settings. Programming has grown from 12 to over 140 programs. Elder College membership now exceeds 600 annually. The diversity of courses is one of Elder College’s strengths. You can study literature, learn to create and better appreciate art, improve

classes. The CVRD provides the facilities, registration process, fee collection, and overall administrative support.

Cowichan Community Centre Elder College Celebrates 20th Anniversary

your health and physical and mental fitness, visit exotic locations through armchair travel, study nature, language, history or music and more. Courses range in length from one to eight or more sessions delivered in a variety of formats.

Volunteer instructors are the key to success. Their expertise varies widely from extensive experience to professional credentials. Over 100 volunteer instructors have shared their skills and expertise. The 20 year partnership with the CVRD has been key to Elder College’s success. This unique relationship has allowed the Committee to focus on: assessing and identifying interests, developing programs, recruiting and supporting instructors, and timetabling

The 20th anniversary celebration of this partnership is temporarily postponed due to COVID-19. Once larger gatherings are permitted again, past and present instructors, learners, advisory committee members, and the CVRD will be able to celebrate this event together. Please watch for this. In the meantime, the Fall courses are about to start. (All Covid-19 safety measures will apply.) Please browse the selection of courses available at: cvrd.bc.ca under “Parks and Recreation - Elder College, or at: islandnet.com/ eldercollege. Also please consider volunteering your skills and talents as an instructor. 28 courses are scheduled for this Fall. September offerings include Estate Planning, Hawk Migration and two art/craft programs. There is something for everyone and many courses are back due to their popularity. An annual membership to Elder College is $10. plus a nominal fee per course. Submitted by Judy Bader

Resonance of the Human Ear Canal Hz). The exact amount of amplification, the acoustic resonance, is particular to the individual and depends on the length, volume and curvature of the canal.

ave you ever wondered why the sound of nails against a chalkboard is so irritating? It has to do with the acoustic resonance of the human ear canal. The auricle (the outer part of your ear) and the ear canal (the passage down to the eardrum) serve not only to collect and funnel sounds, they also serve to amplify sounds. The ear canal, specifically, amplifies sound in the high frequencies (for an adult, typically in the region between 2000-4000

Ear canal resonance plays an important role when it comes to protecting our ears from loud sound. Anything placed inside the canal (a foam earplug for example) interferes with ear canal resonance. A foam ear plug does an adequate job of protecting our hearing; however, if one wishes to protect the ear and preserve the quality of the sound, ear canal resonance must be maintained.

There are a couple types of earplugs which can help maintain ear canal resonance: an off-the-shelf version (ETY plugs) and a custom version (e.g., ER 15s). The ETY plugs make sounds quieter while replicating the frequency response of the average ear canal. The custom ER 15 earplugs require ear impressions and use a specialized filter to maintain the exact resonance of an individualâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ear canal. The acoustic buttons are available in different levels of attenuation (e.g. ER 9s, 15s or 25s). The custom plugs have the additional advantages of retention, comfort and reusability. I use my pair of ER15s during long road trips as the road noise requires me to turn my music up to levels

that would otherwise damage my hearing. I also wear them while mowing the lawn, on an airplane and anytime I listen to music and do not have control over the volume. Back to the chalkboardâ&#x20AC;Ś..it turns out that the frequency of the sound of nails against the chalkboard is very similar to average ear canal resonance. So, a loud annoying high frequency sound is made even louder and more annoying by our own ears!

Terence Miranda is a Doctor of Audiology and the owner of Resonance Hearing Clinic

SEPTEMBER ART EVENTS LIVING IN LOCKDOWN ARTFUL REFLECTIONS ON THE PANDEMIC September 23 - October 21

ALSO ON:

Until September 19: Warmland Calligraphers, Cowichan Valley Camera Club September 16 Speaker series September 24 ArtBubble@2

Art: Good For What Ails You

2687 James St, Duncan (250) 746-1633 I cowichanvalleyartscouncil.ca

ow are you? In the midst of a pandemic, that innocuous question gets more interesting answers than the usual “Fine.” For many people, even if immune systems and general fitness are not compromised, there is a strong sense of anxiety about what’s ahead for us and our families. One popular way to calm down is getting outdoors. Hiking in the forest (or “forest bathing” as it’s called, from the Japanese “shinrinyoku”) has been proven to improve blood pressure not to mention toning your legs. Art – creating it or just looking at it – is another antidote to our worrisome situation with huge benefits for mental and physical health. We’re also in need of community.

Trial By Fire Pottery Studio 2 Week Wheel Classes

NEW ONLINE SHOP AND FARM STAND www.trialbyﬁrepottery.ca I 250-710-8758 www.trialbyﬁrepottery.ca 14

On September 8, the Cowichan Valley Arts Council will offer both art and community as it reopens the front doors in the Cowichan Community

Centre. The Cowichan Valley Camera Club show and Warmland Calligraphers have been held over until September 19. Then September. 23, we open Living in Lockdown, a fascinating artistic reaction to the current Covid-19 situation – with painting, sculpture, mixed media and more. Once again we can welcome small groups (and if circumstances change, we will offer more programs online). The fall speaker series, kicks off Sept.16 at lunchtime with an entertaining slide-talk on achieving realism with a limited palette, by local Federation of Canadian Artists member Phil Robinson. Another new monthly event is ArtBubble@2. Drop in to the CVAC Studio on September 24, (2 – 2:45 pm) for a lively discussion of four wellknown paintings – this month from the Impressionist era. We guarantee you will feel better after our brand of art immersion whether it is strolling through the galleries or listening to a stimulating talk. Susan Down is managing director at CVAC

New Website, New Initiatives Launched By Chemainus Valley Arts Society

t’s streamlined, fast, and easy to get around in, and…

No, we’re not promoting the coming year’s model of a sporty car, we’re talking about the vehicle that gets people in the Chemainus Valley connected to the arts events and activities that make this such a

great place to live: CVCAS.ca. And in case you hadn’t noticed, the Chemainus Valley Cultural Arts Society’s updated website has a new domain name. We’ve moved from .com to .ca, a place that feels closer to home and nearer to our hearts. Kevin Brooks of Versa Sign, who first brought the CVCAS online in 2010, and has managed its internet presence ever since, guided the transition through the technical hoops during the remake. “Thanks to Kevin we have an established online audience that will follow us to our new homepage,” said CVCAS President Bev Knight. The .ca remake was carried out by the CVCAS Communications Committee, which would very much like to hear from visitors how well the site is working, and how it can be improved. “We haven’t gone for glitz and flash, what we wanted was a site that’s clean, pleasing to the eye, and highlights artists in all genres,” said Communications Committee Chair Craig Spence. “We wanted to make it easy for people to get involved with the arts in Chemainus.” You can let us know if we’re succeeding by

emailing communications@cvcas.ca. At the heart of the site is cvcas.ca/events. “We’ve opted for a calendar that is easy to use, and gives visitors all the information they need to find what they’re looking for and mark their own calendars,” Spence said. An online form, accessed from a submenu to the events tab, makes it easy for organizers to submit calendar items. The main menu reflects an expanding role for the CVCAS in the Valley, linking to established pages like Music and Rainforest Arts, but adding Literature and a Collaborate tabs to the mix. There’s lots on the site to discover about what the arts has to offer people in the region. One link Knight hopes people will click is ‘Join us’, located on the homepage Notice Board. It takes visitors to cvcas.ca/ membership. “You can join the CVCAS online by filling out a quick form and making your payment with a click,” she said. “By joining you will get to know what’s happening in the Valley, and how you can support the arts here.”

The Clay Hub Collective Open with COVID-19 measures

Now accepting new members and planning for fall classes

Check our web site for current info

www.theclayhubcollective.com

www.craigspence.ca

VOICE LESSONS WITH CARI BURDETT On Line and In Person

ALL NEW online 6 week courses Choir • Vocal Improvisation • Song Coaching • 101 Basic Song Techniques Threshold Singing • Singing in Nature

New Season begins SEPTEMBER 19TH

Classes on different days and times Check Website for more information

www.joythroughmusic.com

ila Music Centre is committed to bringing joy through music to the community at large through singing, gatherings, voice lessons, choir, singing at bedsides and much more and have been offering music classes in the Valley for over 14 years. Cari Burdett, founder and artistic director of Lila Music Centre started singing at a young age with musical theatre and went on to study Opera and gain her Bachelors degree from McGill University and her Masters of Voice and pedagogy from the prestigious Royal Academy of London, UK. During those years Cari gained a thorough understanding of the voice, performance practices, languages, diction, stage craft and a deep connection to modern music. As a performing artist, Cari has soloed across BC, Montreal and the UK with many orchestras, operas and classical song recitals. During the past 5 years Cari has focussed on performing around BC with some stellar musicians. Presently, Cari is working on completing her 2nd studio album of all original songs, to be released 2021.

Lila Music Centre This Fall

As a music teacher, Cari Burdett weaves her musical experience, teachings and performance practices together with her love and commitment to building community through music and invites anyone who wishes they were singing, wants to sing, wants to improve their performance practice, wants to try to develop their voice in new dimensions, or wants to be coached with songs you already know - to reach out and connect with her about vocal possibilities.

Music Director Cari Burdett

Cari will be offering new online classes in 6 week series. Private lessons can be in person or online. The weekly Community Choir will hopefully meet in person watch website for details. Voice Lessons - Beginners, Intermediate and Advanced Cari tailors voice lessons to each students age, ability, teaching style and personal goals for their own singing. Often Cari will begin with body awareness stretches, then be lead in a series of vocal exercises focussing on unique aspects of the voice that each student is developing, often the student works on songs with Cari accompanying on piano. Choir Cari will be offering a series of 6 week on line courses for those wanting to try online choir. These classes will be for all levels and interests. The songs will be a variety of styles and languages. All welcome to participate. The face to face choir will hopefully begin again in a new state - TBA with the details on website Covid dependent.

Vocal Improvisation - If you would like to explore singing freely, develop more playfulness with your voice, express your thoughts, feelings and musical ideas through song, this might be the course for you. Vocal Improvisation can mean so many things essentially it is singing without knowing or planning what you will sing, with no musical score or pre plan. It is about a deeper listening and connection to all that surrounds us and is within us. There will be classes for beginners and those with more experience with Voice Improvisation. Song Coaching - These classes can be private one offs or a series of classes where the focus is on working on the performance aspect of the songs you wish to perform. You will come to the lesson

and have a shorter vocal warm up and work through songs. Cari will be offering this as a group lesson as well, so that the students have the opportunity to share their songs with others - in classical music it is called “Master Classes”. Sound Release - Sound Release will be an intuitive exploration of the voice. Lessons will begin toning, movement, journalling and if possible singing outdoors. The classes will be focussed on sound release as a tool to reduce stress, trauma, depression, anxiety. We will use the format of ‘Way of Council’ for some of our singing by taking turns sharing with others in the group through sounds, songs, vocal expression and words.

101 Basic Vocal Techniques In these classes you will learn foundations of healthy singing techniques. This is an ideal class for someone who sings in choirs, or someone who wants to take voice lessons, but isn’t ready to commit to private lessons yet. It is also ideal for any singer wanting to review foundational techniques of voice projection health, tone and breath support. Threshold SingingBringing back this class by popular demand! Comfort through song for those passing. Our core intention is to sing at the bedside of those in their final days of living, creating a vibrational veil of peace for the dying and a sacred space of love for the grieving family. Our music is chosen for its simple melodic tune and its words of peace and comfort. We are non denominational. When able, depending on Covid and how protocols change and continue - we wish to be offering our songs at the home, hospice, care facility, hospital or by telephone/media. For anyone who wants to sing these heartfelt songs. No experience necessary. Singing in Nature - Cari will take participants on a hike and stop to sing as we go along. Songs will be uplifting, joyful, fun and easy to learn. At times we will explore our voices with nature and perhaps journal. Ideal for those who love nature, love to hike and love to sing. Each Nature Singing Outing will be different so different levels of hiking and accessibility will be available.

COVID guidelines and protocols Face to Face lessons and group choir will be reviewed on a weekly basis depending on the current situation with the pandemic and with each students personal health. Face to Face lessons will be flexible to be available on line. Students will be asked to sign a waiver to declare they are taking precautions which will help to keep everyone safe. A thorough list of Covid protocol is available on the website, as well as a sample waiver. Agreements include, not attending face to face if any symptoms of illness are present, respect for keeping a distance, washing and sanitizing hands prior to lessons, etc. For registration please go to www.JoyThroughMusic.com or text Cari 250 710 4174 for more information.

lanis Obomsawin is ordered to leave; she stays. Her film reveals the 78day event that some call “the Oka Crisis”. This Abenaki filmmaker’s longstanding determination to film history documents the “resistance” in Kahnesatake. In 1947, near Montreal, the Municipality of Oka seized land from the Mohawk Nation of Kahnesatake. In 1961, the municipality built a private, 9-hole golf course on the seized land. In July 1990, Oka’s Municipal Council approves a luxury housing development and the expansion to 18 holes of private golf on the Mohawk’s burial grounds in the Pines. Mohawk resistance causes the Mayor of Oka to seek a court injunction against the resulting blockade. Give up the roadblock or the Quebec

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

Why We Should See: Kahnesatake: 270 Years of Resistance by Alanis Obomsawin Alanis Obomsawin

After tear gas, concussion grenades and bullets, Quebec Provincial Police cannot

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

Daytime • Evening •Weekend • By Appointment Only #13- Upper Level • Valleyview Centre • Cobble Hill www.reikiwellness.ca • reiki-wellness@shaw.ca

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1532 CHAPLIN ST, CROFTON 18

This film became the first documentary ever to win the Best Canadian Feature award at the Toronto International Film Festival. One film clip, from the last night of the resistance, especially sticks in the mind. Canadian keepers of the peace hold a Mohawk to the ground. One of them has his knee on the neck of a man who is defending the burial ground of his ancestors from a golf course.

Provincial Police will be called in. The Mohawk do not give up.

Reiki Therapy & Classes - Detox Foot Spas Acupuncture - Amethyst Mat - YL Essential Oils

public. The media try to smuggle out their accounts through razor-wire. The Premier, Robert Bourassa, assures the public there is free circulation of supplied food provisions to the Mohawk behind the barricades. But Obomsawin films problems of delays, re-routings, and damage of food supplies. The troops pore roughly over food trucks looking for smuggled weapons that never materialize. One Mohawk says, “I think they’re trying to cholesterol us to death.”

explain the death of Officer Marcel Lemay. The Canadian Army is called in. Some present-day reports say 2,500 troops were deployed to the Mohawk village, a population of approximately 1,500 inhabitants. A bystander comments that the actions of the police and Army reminds him of “a police state, rather than a democracy”. A significant number of Oka townspeople interviewed by Obomsawin support the Mohawk families. By the end of July 1990, 2,500 people have come from outside to support the resistance. Reporters state on film that the Army is deciding what is acceptable and unacceptable to report to the Canadian

The Warmland Book and Film Collective – explore, celebrate, and learn from Indigenous authors and filmmakers – meeting the 2nd Wednesday/each month. Next meeting is September 9th and the next movie is Our People Will Be Healed, Alanis Obomsawin, National Film Board of Canada. This is Obomsawin’s 50th film and her favourite. You can watch it here: www.nfb.ca/film/our-peoplewill-be-healed/ Questions? warmlandcollective@gmail. com www.nfb.ca/film/ kanehsatake_270_years_of_ resistance/

Submitted by Miyo Stevens

HUB Resiliency Through Technology

he Cowichan Station Area Association, who run ‘The HUB’, are honoured recipients of funding through the Island Coastal Economic Trust (ICET)’s Small Capital Restart Funding Stream. The new program, launched in early June, supports innovative projects addressing COVID-related business restart and sustainability opportunities. The Cowichan Station Area Association (CSAA) project, ‘HUB Resiliency Through Technology’, will provide advanced audio-visual technological solutions to the HUB community centre in Cowichan Station. The HUB caters to a wide cross-section of users and this project will offer a range of community benefits and back-to-work initiatives. New equipment and software will enable “plug and play” live-streaming, video conferencing, Podcasting and recording capability for any individual, business, local group or organizational meetings. The project will also provide alternative business restart opportunities for local musicians, fitness, movement, music and art instructors, community and

fundraising events, currently limited by health and safety regulations. Some of the new equipment available to use is the Meeting Owl Pro for 360° video conferencing and ceiling mounted projectors and screens, as well as, audio equipment to broadcast or podcast live or to a recording. “The HUB Resiliency Through Technology project will be completed in the coming weeks, we are so thrilled to be able to action this in a timely way, to really make a difference for new and existing users of the HUB community space” Says the HUB’s Secretary, Donna Shaw. Look for a calendar of virtual events at the HUB at www.cowichanstation.org

Donna Shaw is a WFH mom, who helps clients bring nature into their homes.

Traditional Chinese Exercise for Health Wild Goose Qigong (Chi Gong) Gentle movement Calms your mind Heals internal organs Develops ﬂexibility Mondays 9~10:15am (Rivendell) Wednesdays 10:15am-11:30am Thursdays 8:45am-10am (HUB) Fridays 10am-11:15am (Victoria) Northern Shaolin Chun Yuen Quan Dynamic movement Improves posture Increases energy Strengthens bones Tuesdays 6pm-7:15pm Wednesdays 9am-10:15am

250 748 4060 rivendellrhythm@shaw.ca

www.WildGooseQigongCentre.com 19

the wisp of campfire smoke or perhaps the growl of a stomach wanting more fuel. Mountain food is often simple, sturdy food meant to satisfy and keep you going for a while longer. It is a lot about comfort and is best made with local and clean ingredients. Back home in the Valley, these are good foods for the cooler autumn evening, they also pair well with wine and the Cowichan wines (including our ports – blackberry and other wise) are some of these best matches out there for these subtle and hearty flavours. Come to think of it a good local cider or craft beer would also be a good match. All perfect companions for hibernating with your friends and family - or maybe it’s just you and the dog. My ambitions are mellowing the more time I spend with my dog.

Vancouver Island Alpine Cooking Bill Jones is an author, chef and food consultant Deerholme.com

ou can have a good time at the higher altitudes (no pun intended). Many fine hours have been spent hiking and fishing and camping in the upper shelf of the world. The air is thinner, often crisp, and lots of calories are generally expended. This is accelerated when you leave the vehicles behind and explore the land on foot. Here on the Island we have some excellent alpine terrain in the Mount Washington and Forbidden Plateau areas around the Comox Valley. It is part of the large Stathcona area mastiff and boosts some impressive waterfalls and caves in the mix. Food always tastes better in the high country, maybe it is

We are lucky to iive on an Island that stretches from the ocean to the peaks. There is lots to discover, and for the short-term, a fitting substitute for those majestic European mountains. Time to find a little comfort in an uncomfortable time. On September 19th we will holding our own guided tour of European alpine cuisine told in the form of local wild mushroom dishes. Check out www. deerholme.com for more info.

Find us at the Duncan Farmer’s Market on Saturdays!

Charcuterie, Grazing Boxes and Entertaining Ideas

www.picklespantry.ca I 250-266-2464 20

Upcoming EVENTS Deerholme Mushroom Dinner: The Alps September 19

Wild Mushroom Forage Weekend October 3 & 4 (forage Saturday, cooking class Sunday) Private Dinners are Available Minimum 8 people – custom menu

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

4830 Stelfox Rd, Duncan

For ReservationS 250 748 7450 Alpine Quark Cake

Recipe courtesy Chef Bill Jones, Deerholme Farm

This is a classic fall cake, that is comforting and delicious. Not for the lactose intolerant, this cake is made with butter and fresh cheese (quark) - lemons and apples cut the richness of this moist treat

Ingredients 1 Cup butter (at room temperature) 1 Cup sugar 1 lemon, zest and juice ¼ Cup milk 4 eggs 1 tsp real vanilla extract 1 Tbsp baking powder 4 cups all purpose flour 2 cups diced apples 1 1/2 Cup quark (or ricotta, cream cheese, fresh goats cheese, etc) powdered sugar for garnish (optional)

Method

Preheat oven at 350 F Note: Use a silicon cake ring for good results or use a square or round cake pan lined with silicon paper – traditionally the cake pan was rubbed with butter and lightly coated in flour, all to make a nice crust. In a stand mixer with paddle attachment (or bowl and wooden spoon), cream butter and sugar together until fluffy. Add the zest and juice of the lemon to the mixture and beat until fluffy again. Add the eggs one at a time while constanty beating the batter. Add the quark and beat until smooth. Add the milk and vanilla extract and mix to blend. Add the baking powder into the flour and slowly add in cup increments to the batter, waiting to see it blends nicely each time. When just smooth, fold in the apples and remove the bowl from the machine. Use a spatula to stir the batter and make sure the flour is fully incorporated. Pour into a prepared cake pan and bake in the hot oven for 45 minutes (less if you are using convection) test the cake with a toothpick for doneness. It wil come out clean and free of batter and look golden brown when it is cooked. Transfer the cake to a wire rack and cool for about an hour. Remove from pan, turning upside down on a plate. When cool, dust with icing sugar.

Crafting Cider

e’re often asked how we come up with our ciders, and it’s simply when creativity or a narrative inspires doing something about it. To ‘craft’ is to ‘make’. That’s all it is. What’s rightly implied with ‘craft’ products is that you’re expressing some part of your own story in a thing you care about. I truly believe it’s this level of honest curiosity and intentionality that separates the pursuit of craft as an ‘expression’ from its pursuit as an ‘opportunity’. Making cider just because there’s a market that will drink it is not craft, despite that word being conspicuously branded on the can or bottle. Take away intentionality and you can remove accountability because there’s no meaningful connection between the maker and the product other than revenue; there’s no personal pride. Without accountability, shortcuts become more attractive and quality invariably suffers. For example, we recently released a new cider: Poïple.

It began as cider we’d been aging with blueberries, and evolved with much discussion and rants and armwaving to include lemon zest with almost bombastic (for cider) levels of cinnamon. It felt like being a painter, focusing on the canvas as it demands much more than you had initially intended. Why fight it? It’s craft! Finally, we blended in butterfly pea blossoms which when added to a small amount of acid (ie., cider) turns.... Poïple! Chemically, you could create something similar with some bulk cider, a boatload of sugar, a few big vials of flavouring and a bucket of purple dye, and maybe even get away with labeling it ‘natural’. But is it craft? Our process involves truly natural things you can eat. Every flavour and characteristic compliments the one before and after it, including the colour. Poïple was crafted like a painting unveils itself. I don’t mean to suggest it has any deep meaning... it’s simply a fun and lovely cider. But that’s enough for us to feel pride. That’s our craft.

Submitted by Bruce McKinley, Valley Cider valleycider.square.site

Housemade cold cuts and cured salami for lunches.

Spicy noodles are the love of my life... I love spicy noodles so much I once opened a restaurant entirely devoted to my amore. There are so many ways to create a great noodle dish to suit your preference, the possibilities are endless. Spicy, sweet, tangy, garlicky throw some fresh herbs on top and you have a serious party for your mouth and everyone wants to be your friend. This dish is so simple it takes about 15 minutes from start to finish. Serves 2 super hungry crazy noodle people or 4 people that like to share

Ingredients

Birds eye chilis (2-5) 2 being mild to 5 being hot 8 cloves of garlic 1 bunch green onion 1 bunch Thai basil 1 bunch cilantro 3 lb ground pork ¼ cup light soy sauce ¼ cup white vinegar 4 dollops fish sauce 3 packages Udon noodles Sesame seeds 3 tbsp cooking oil Salt to taste Method Soak Udon noodles in hot water and set aside. Cut white ends of green onion into inch size pieces and set green part aside for later. Smash garlic and chilis together into a paste. If you don’t own a pestle and mortar by now it is time to invest. However, a fine dice will do the trick. Heat a wok or large frying pan, add oil and garlic chili paste and onion pieces and cook on high heat for 30 seconds. Sprinkle with salt to avoid burning garlic. Brown pork and cook through. Add soy sauce and vinegar and throw in some fish sauce. Now it’s time to add the noodles. Toss all together and cook for about 3 minutes. Serve with more fresh herbs and thinly sliced green onion. Get some sesame seeds on there and the time has arrived for noodle love. Recipe courtesy Barnes and Maracle 22

Long has the wine community on Vancouver Island and the Lower Mainland screamed for the Island to make sparkling wine our signature style. With all do respect to Pinot Noir, we received the message loud and clear.

Wine Glasses Demystified Bubbles bubbles everywhere and every drop I drink Chris Turyk - I love wine, a lot. I’m a Certified Sommelier, WSET Diploma graduate, and get in everyones way at unsworthvineyards. Follow my personal antics @farmersomm

ell understood now is that sparkling wine should not solely be reserved for special occasions. Allow me to rephrase; every occasion becomes special by virtue of opening sparkling wine. Other than the obvious bubbles, hidden are myriads of subtle, complex and fascinating aromas that compliment the carbonation in the pinnacle of fine wine.

Commonplace is the flute as the sparkling wine glass of choice, largely to preserve the bubbles in the glass. Its’ long, thin and elegant bowl provides less surface area at the bottom of the glass for the bubbles to escape and bead to the rim. Resulting in a picture perfect stream of pearls that are as persistent from first sip to the last. As prototypical as this is, I argue some of the potential for enjoyment is lost with such little room in the small, narrow glass for aromas to gather, let alone fit my ample nose. Some fashionable bars and restaurants are opting for the throwback coupe style glass. Close your eyes and picture drinking wine in the 1930’s - that glass. Certain fun, perhaps even a guilty pleasure arises in sipping bubbles (especially Champagne) from this timepiece which always results in a smile. A few spills aside this can be a lighthearted choice in lieu of the flute, but unfortunately still doesn’t solve the problem of not being able to smell what is in the glass. Alas, when drinking sparkling wine more often than not, I

utilize my staple white wine glass. Specifically the Riedel aromatic white glass which can be sourced at most home stores and certainly online. Splitting the difference between preserving the carefully attained bubbles and actually being able to fit my nose in the glass for a good whiff, the white wine glass is perfect middle ground and whittles down my constantly packed glass cabinet. The tulip shape allows the wine to be swirled

to further coax aromas out of the wine, and easily detected are more subtle and shy notes of complexity and age particularly associated with traditional method sparkling wine. Often in wine, like life, there is no single right answer. What matters often is the path leading to enjoyment and harmony. A path with sparkling wine will seldom disappoint. 23

VALLEY DENTAL CLINIC Dr. Gordon Levin DMD Dentist Detailed screening for sleep apnea with dental appointments Qualified Dentist American Academy of Dental Sleep Medicine

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

reception@valleydentalclinic.ca

A OLD FOREST CAMPGROUND

ON THE EDGE OF TOWN

SALT SPRING ISLAND Where the Cowichan Valley meets the Salish Sea!

Large Park • Trails • Seaside Walk • Awesome Destination Gallery/Gift Shop • Hardy Plant Nursery • Variety of Campsites

Mid Week Islanders Special MONDAY – WEDNESDAY Stay 2 nights get a 3rd night free

To Reserve call Shayne or Shirley 250-537-4346

gardenfaire@saltspring.com

www.gardenfaire.ca

Think Rustic Cooking For Fall

s the days begin to get shorter and the weather begins to cool, our thoughts begin to shift towards rustic, nostalgic style cooking. I often find comfort in old recipes that take us back to the days of our childhood, as well as creating the opportunity to pass along hundreds of years of tradition on to the next generation. Here at Cure, the approaching season means that we have the chance to dig out some old recipe books, laden with European recipes and flavours using cheap cuts of meat that would otherwise be looked down upon. Some of my favourites are: Chuck - Usually regarded as a sub par cut of beef, chuck steak becomes a wonderful one-pot braising meat Flank - Also commonly known as a Bavette, this cut is best used for long marinating and slow cooking

6476 Norcross Rd, Duncan I Islandreturnit.com I

While tenderloin may be a summer favourite for the grill, these slow braising meats are flavourful and delicious

options for autumn cooking. Pair these with the vegetables that you have spent all summer nurturing and loving in your garden or come in to Cure and ask us about how to use preservatives such as duck fat to maximize your larder this winter. While the likes of chefs such as Anthony Bourdain may be gone, their style of rustic and delicious food can still be found in their recipe books (the Les Halles cookbook is a mainstay here in the Cure kitchen) and will help you learn to feed your family on a budget and more importantly, keeping them as healthy as possible during flu season! Recommended books Les Halles cookbook Anthony Bourdain The Old World Kitchen Elisabeth Luard Larousse Gastronomique considered to the the modern French cooking bible

Fruit Save Looking For Volunteers

owichan Green Community’s FruitSave program is in need of a few extra helping hands. Consider becoming a pick leader or fruit tree assessor. Either position is 5-10 hours a month for September and October. Pick Leader Pick leaders ensure that all the equipment needed for a pick makes it from the CGC’s office to the tree location and back again. The equipment includes the ladders, picking bags, picking poles and weigh scales. Once the fruit is harvested the pick leader reports back to CGC the total amount of fruit that was picked, how many pounds were donated and to what organization the fruit went to. Needs to be able to transport at least the 6′ ladder and in some cases the 11′ ladder

Fruit Tree Assessor Person who assesses the fruit tree prior to it being picked in order to determine: • How many volunteers are needed to pick the tree (how much fruit is on the tree and how easy it is to pick the fruit.) • What equipment is needed to pick the tree (size of ladder, type of ladder, picking poles, etc.) • Are there any special considerations such as sloping ground, special plants under the tree, etc… Note: efforts will be made to match a person with a tree in their neighbourhood so a car is not always needed. Volunteers have harvested over two tonnes (4696 pounds to be exact!) of apples, plums and pears in the first two months of this season and

there are two months left to go. Please consider becoming a pick leader or fruit tree assessor so more people in the Cowichan Valley can have access to home grown fruit. To sign up to volunteer, stop by CGC’s office or fill-out an

online volunteer application at cowichangreencommunity. org/volunteer/ For more information, check out our webpage or contact CGC’s FruitSave coordinators at: fruitsave@ cowichangreencommunity.org

Weekend juicing services available for your apples and pears this fall! 25

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

Queen Margaret’s School Back To School lunches tastes better made with authentic handcrafted bread.

(All Gender) Preschool - Grade 12 Spaces available in select grades for September 2020 admissions@qms. bc.ca 250.746.4185 www.qms.bc.ca

F MADE WITH 100% ORGANIC BC FLOUR Village Centre, Cowichan Bay

Order online for pick up at truegrain.ca

or almost 100 years Queen Margaret’s School (QMS) has offered an exceptional and rigorous education that builds confidence, character and compassion. Boys and girls develop through signature programs that focus on experiential and inquiry-based learning, entrepreneurial thinking and equine-facilitated leadership development. What makes QMS unique? The School’s values of justice, curiosity, integrity, connection and courage anchor students in becoming trailblazers of tomorrow. Opportunities abound for students to engage in programming and extracurricular activities that foster wonder and excitement for learning, inspiring a passion to look deeper. Whether

in the classroom or in the equestrian ring, we create new generations of confident leaders empowered to create a more just and connected world. COVID-19 Safety Measures: QMS takes the safety of our students, staff and community very seriously. All guests to our 27-acre campus are required to pass through our thermal imaging system (to check for elevated body temperatures), pass daily health checks, follow enhanced hygiene measures, and adhere to current physical distancing protocols. Housekeeping staff complete daily deep cleans of our campus to sanitize frequently used surfaces, food services staff strictly follow provincial and Worksafe rules, students in Grades 4-12 will be issued face masks to be worn when physical distancing is not possible, and all faculty members will receive new face shields. New world. New challenges. New learning.

Sunrise Waldorf School

utside play is always the best medicine. In the Sunrise Waldorf School Kindergartens, outdoor play and learning are central to the day. With so much change and uncertainty, our teachers are poised for the challenges and changes that are before us. Our limited class sizes, and beautiful 7 acre campus, mean that Kindergarten students will spend

a large portion of their school day outside. Gardening, observing, digging, walking, cooperative game playing, swinging, jumping rope, splashing, and rolling, are just a few examples of the wonderful opportunities that will be offered to our students. When children move their bodies, engage in imaginative play, and work in problem solving together, they learn. These kinds of activities create a strong foundation for creative, critical, and healthy thinking as they grow and develop in their academics throughout the grade school. Strong daily rhythms and repetition allow the children to sink deeply into their play. The Waldorf Kindergartens are a place where simplicity is celebrated, and where childhood is preserved and held with love. In this current climate of uncertainty, outdoor school is the best medicine. We at Sunrise Waldorf School are excited to

offer a fully rounded, holistic and nature based education because that is already what so much of Waldorf Education is all about. On any given day at any given time, you are likely to find one or more of our classes playing games, exploring, hiking, and getting creative OUTSIDE. This starts from the very beginning in the Pre-schools and Kindergartens where children are well bundled in their rain gear and hats, ready to dig, to splash, and to play in the elements for upwards of half the programming for the day. In the upper grades, games, sports, and subjects such as botany and local geography are taken outside and explored through observation, drawing and recounting of stories and experiences.

Preschool - Grade 8 Waldorf Kindergarten Waldorf Education Campus located on 7 beautiful acres in rural setting 250.743.2148 www.sunrise waldorfschool.org

If you are interested in hearing more about why Waldorf Education works, or to book a campus tour and talk, please contact Chantey Dayal â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Director of Admissions today. 250.743.7253 OR e-mail admissions@ sunrisewaldorfschool.org

Sunrise Waldorf School is an independent school, supporting choice in education for discerning parents. We are excited to welcome our students and families back to campus, and are planning for programming that supports the wellbeing of our children, families, and the land. RSVP to admissions@sunrisewaldorfschool.org

CURRENTLY ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS FOR OUR REVERED KINDERGARTEN PROGRAMS. www.sunrisewaldorfschool.org

250 743-7253 2148 Lakeside Rd, Duncan

RSVP Required

Queen of Angels Catholic School Kindergarten Grade 9 2020 Registration forms available on queenofangels.ca For information call 250 746-5919

ueen of Angels Catholic School is a faith-based school which has been operating in the Cowichan Valley since 1964. Students in grades K through 9 are taught in a family environment that is academically challenging. We have specialist teachers in French, Music, PE, and Cowichan cultural studies. Each child is encouraged to develop their individual talents in academics, athletics, fine arts, and social responsibility. Our Catholic traditions of respect, stewardship, social justice, and prayer help students to develop to their full potential. We are determined to be the school of choice in the Cowichan Valley, raising well-rounded students guided by a strong moral conscience. To that end, we provide many opportunities for leadership through liturgical celebrations, helping others, buddy classes, conflict/resolution clubs on the playground, student government, house teams, and community

service. We offer a variety of athletic programs such as wrestling, rowing, running club and basketball to name a few. In fine arts, the intermediate students participate in an Artists and Angels program whereby local artists work with our students during January/ February to create amazing projects for a display. Other students develop their musical talents by participating in band, guitar class, or choral classes. Queen of Angels also has many opportunities for using technology. Students have access to laptops or ipads in their classrooms. There are also computers in the library and in the computer lab. Technology is often included in the elective classes for the older grades as well. Other electives include cooking, robotics, bicycle maintenance, hand textiles, electronics, and entrepreneurship. Some highlights for performing at Q of A include the annual Christmas concert held at the local theatre and a Middle School Fine Arts Night. Students participate in public speaking contests both locally and in Victoria. Both Intermediate and Primary classes hold evening celebrations for parents to come and celebrate their childâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s progress. We are a busy school. We are a happy school. Queen of Angels is a place where children learn to love and love to learn.

Evergreen Independent School Preschool - Grade 7 3515 Watson Avenue Cobble Hill 250-743-2433 evergreenbc.net

hirty-eight years ago, a group of parents in Cobble Hill were searching for an alternative learning environment for their children. Evergreen Independent School was established with an eye towards building community while providing a safe and supportive learning setting for students. The parents and teachers of Evergreen Independent School are committed to a philosophy that develops the full potential of each child. Small class sizes, innovative teaching, and multi- grade classrooms enhance individual learning and create positive socialization across all grade levels. Evergreen has a structured learning environment where academic excellence is fostered. The school also boasts a robust food literacy program for students, as well as a fully gluten-free kitchen to accommodate special dietary needs for our students and

guests. We are also extremely proud of our beautiful garden space where students gain the skills needed to grow and harvest their very own vegetables. Evergreen is home to the Cobble Hill Community Pavilion â&#x20AC;&#x201C; a gorgeous timberframed, shared community space for the school, parents, and local residents. Students and staff enjoy the use of this covered space for sports, playtime and as an extension of the classroom for outdoor learning. We are proud to offer programs for younger students: Evergreen Explorers program for 3-year-olds (offered twice a week) Junior Kindergarten for 4-year-olds (Monday through Thursday) Come see why families choose Evergreen! For further information or to arrange a tour, please contact our administration at 250-743-2433 or evergreen@evergreenbc.net.

insolPlay is really excited to share the opening of its newest playground at Old Mill Park on Shawnigan Lake.

of overcoming obstacles is an essential part of early-childhood development. Life is loaded with risk for adults, so creating play environments that introduce children to risk in a way which allows them to build confidence and a healthy tolerance to risk is setting them up to become successful adults.

This parkland has served the local community as a recreational and social gathering place since 1970, taking its name from the once-proud Shawnigan Lake Lumber Company, an early driver of economic growth in the region. As community members and long users of this park, the KinsolPlay team was thrilled to team up with the CVRD to create an engaging natural play space to compliment the popular swimming destination! As a local company, based in Bamberton, we design and build sustainable, nature-based playgrounds that encourage social interaction and unscripted play. At Old Mill Park, we have installed two of our most popular playground elements: a small log climber and a toddler parkour. But don’t let the names fool you - there is nothing small about this

courtesy of Todd Blumel

Kinsol Play at Old Mill Park climber, nor does the parkour stop at entertaining toddlers only! Our play equipment is always designed to suit people aged 18 months and UP! That includes the adult sized “kids” that might feel the urge to test their climbing and agility skills. Two rapidly emerging trends in Canadian playground design are the complimentary themes of nature-based play and risky-

play. We believe that little hands respond to the natural feel of materials such as wood and stone in a way that deeply connects them with nature. Our play pieces are intended to help children explore their physical environments through balancing, jumping, climbing, swinging and sliding. Learning to take incremental risks and experiencing the joy

COWICHAN BAY KAYAKING

Youth Programs

www.kinsolplay.com Follow us - @kinsolplay - on Facebook and Instagram 250.588.8770 Jaime Blacklock, Admin Support/ Social Media Coordinator

ADVENTURE CENTRE

OPEN FOR BOOKING!

Canoeing Adventures

When we created our very first playground (Terra Nova Adventure Playground in Richmond, BC), the initial challenge was to create fullycompliant, safe spaces for children to play, where they could be the authors of their own self-directed adventures, while engaging in risky, naturebased play. And now creating playgrounds like this have become second nature to us, as our portfolio of playgrounds has grown to 29 and counting.

Kayak & SUP Rentals

Book online or contact us by email or phone (minimum 24 hrs ahead). Visit our website for details. Wildlife Tours

On the Dock at Bluenose Marina, Cowichan Bay

cowichanbaykayaking.com 250-597-3031 info@cowichanbaykayaking.com 30

Shawnigan Montessori Preschool Childcare Childcare, Preschool and Kindergarten Program for ages 2 1/2 - 6 Years Shawnigan Lake 250 743.6279

hawnigan Lake Montessori has been in operation since 2007 and is situated within the large grounds of Shawnigan Lake School, just outside of Shawnigan Lake Village. We offer Preschool and Childcare for families in the Cowichan Valley. The Preschool’s two classrooms are located in a beautiful two storey house with large gardens which back onto a forest. This provides opportunities for nature play, gardening and forest walks. We offer a full Montessori program for children from 2 ½ years to 6 years and include a kindergarten program. Our teachers have credentials which meet all provincial standards, as well as Montessori Certification, and are experienced and

enthusiastic about providing an enriched early years Montessori curriculum. We offer three, four and five day options, with either a full day or half day program. Our focus at Shawnigan Lake Montessori is to provide a caring and respectful educational experience for every child. Our program is committed to the Montessori curriculum and our classroom is a prepared environment equipped with certified Montessori materials with which the children may explore, be creative, build independence and gain a strong sense of self. Each child is seen as a unique individual who requires freedom to develop every aspect of his or her personality, naturally and without pressure. With respectful love and care, the child is guided towards independence and selfcontrol by means of activity in a peaceful, calm and orderly environment. Children, parents, and teachers who are a part of the Shawnigan Lake Montessori community should feel confident that the preschool is as safe - emotionally and physically - as possible during the COVID-19 global pandemic. We will provide consistent interactions between teachers and children, limit people coming

into the preschool and ensure that we are following the relevant guidelines set out by Child-Care Professionals of BC and the BC Government regarding health and wellness, cleaning and sanitizing of the preschool. Our COVID-19 policies and procedures detail how we can all work together to keep everyone as safe as possible. Enrollment and intake for Shawnigan Lake Montessori Preschool and Childcare is a step

by step process which begins with a visit to look around the preschool and a meeting to explore the parent’s and the school’s needs and expectations in order to help ensure a good fit for your child. If you are interested in setting up a school visit, please contact us. Email:shawniganlake montessori@shaw.ca or Phone: 250 743 6279 www. shawniganlakemontressori.com.

uring the Covid lockdown I had friends with local restaurants and food trucks asking if I was making masks, I resisted at first since there was a flood of makers but then I remembered I had several kimonos in my storage that I had purchased at a vintage flea market in Tokyo. I used this beautiful ochre fabric with Sakura (cherry blossoms ) floating through an art nouveau swirl as my first series of masks. I notice not many masks had soft liners to protect your face so I used bamboo knit to be my liner/ filter pocket. I posted my first batch and they sold out within a couple days I was shocked by the overwhelming response, so I continued this little experiment. I then started using the off cuts that I had saved from a few of my winter lines that I had coveted in my storage; lovely organic stretch brushed twills and velvety pinwale cords. I have a hard time letting go of off cuts I really hate throwing fabric into the LOOKING FOR MICROGREENS?

the discomfort of wearing a mask.

Morena Clothing - Mindfully Designed Masks For Little Faces landfill, I was raised to use everything and turn it into an art project.

was a relief, finally I had a use for these bits of lovely fabrics.

Last year when Marie Kondo was teaching us to ‘let go of everything that doesn’t bring us joy’ I almost let go of these boxes of scraps. When all the fabric stores shut down this

The masks slowly evolved from using wire from the hardware store for nose wires, to flat aluminum wire my partner found on line.

We grow plenty of them!

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

locally grown, organic and delicious

Ol’ MacDonald Farm Hakurei turnips, Sungold cherry tomatoes, eggplant, beans, cabbage, cucumbers, greens, free range eggs and more. delicious local food grown with love

Visit us on Saturdays at the downtown Duncan Farmers Market. 32

Eventually I printed my silk screened images; a panda and Japanese rainbows on the softest fabric I had in my bins, these made the perfect comfy mask for kids. Its gotta be so hard convincing kids to wear masks but with these little pandas I was hoping it would ease the discomfort. These kids masks are free of nose wires unless they are requested, this helps with the coziness. I’m in the process of building these new linen masks for kids to help with easy breathing and anxiety. Lined with bamboo that doubles as the filter pocket, these are antibacterial and incredibly soft on the face which feels good after learning some woven cottons have been spun with threads that cause rashes. I’m hoping these little details help relieve

I’m still designing clothes but the need for masks was so overwhelming that I had to switch gears and make the masks a priority to meet the needs of my community. I’ve been so lucky to be approached by local businesses that are integral to helping locals by keeping money in our local economy. These businesses could have taken short cuts by choosing masks made elsewhere, I have so much appreciation for the community I live in. Linen cotton kids masks to wear all week long. This newest edition, specific for small children are breathable and comfy child masks made from linen and cotton with a super soft liner made from bamboo that lays against the skin. Each mask comes with a filter pocket for optional filter inserts. Adjustable ear loops made with the same soft bamboo complete the mask for easy on and off. These fun masks will help ease children back to school in September by reducing anxiety with mask discomfort. $12 each or 5/55$ please add $2 for postage. To order for a little person you love email: morenaclothing@gmail.com

the rest of it, (eightysix percent in Canada), still ends up in landfills or incinerators. The problem is not limited to plastic,of course, but that particular material is unique in terms of its pervasiveness, its inability to be reused, and its permanence. So what are we to do? Much of the answer lies within making choices about what we purchase in the first place, rather than what we do with the remnants of packaging after the fact. The saying is “reduce, reuse, recycle”, and it is not in random order. If one wanted to expand on it, it would read: “Reduce what you buy, reuse what you already have, and recycle whatever is left over”. It sounds so simple, but life is busy, and manufacturers don’t make it easy. It takes planning and commitment to make change happen.

Lightening The Plastic Burden

Gina Malkin has worked in the Natural Health field for 10 years and is currently working at Lynn’s Vitamin Gallery.

he discovery of plastic, more than a hundred years ago now, changed the world. It was revolutionary. It made life easier, safer, more hygienic, more convenient... the benefits were immense. Fast forward a hundred years-many of the benefits remain, but our planet is drowning. We have taken the disposable aspect of plastic to new heights, or depths. Single use water bottles. Food wrap, disposable everything, packaging for days, it just does not stop. And despite our best efforts, in the home, in the community, nation-wide, despite all of the programs and appeals to our sense of personal responsibility, some very sobering statistics remain. The truth is, only a very small percentage, (nine percent), of plastic that we recycle can actually be repurposed. The majority of

Products do exist to help in the fight against single use wastefulness. Environmentally conscious stores such as Lynn’s Vitamin Gallery, in Duncan, are a good place to start. Glass or metal straws, (such as those made by Enviro), reusable lunch bags, (lunchskins), beeswax cloth food wrap, (Evercoast Handmade), sheep’s wool dryer balls, (Moss Creek Wool Works), and the list goes on . Food can be purchased in bulk, and packaged in repurposed containers brought from home. Even drinks like Kombucha are available on tap from forward-thinking companies like Cultured Kombucha,where a one-time purchase of a glass bottle can be refilled an infinite number of times, with zero waste. Luckily, there are many dedicated and innovative

Come in and see all the great new products available to help you maintain a healthy and sustainable household. 250-748-4421 4-180 Central Rd, Duncan - Village Green Mall www.lynnsvitamingallery.ca

people coming up with solutions to the overpackaging and waste issues that threaten our planet. All the consumer needs to do is keep eyes and mind open, do some research, and, step by

step, attempt to create a better future for the planet we call home.

• All things natural and beautiful for you and your children • Beautiful and inspiring books for all ages and levels of interest • Wonderful organic merino/silk, wool clothing from age 0 - adult • Wooden toys, puzzles, games, silks, dolls, cards, calendars, prints • Birthday rings, craft kits, musical instruments and much more. • Painting, drawing, knitting wool, felting, beeswax, craft & lots handwork books & supplies

Proudly carrying a full line of school and art supplies from Mercurius along with quality organic baby and children’s clothing from Disana, Engel and Hocosa; Great selection of wooden toys, puzzles, play cloths and games from Sarah’s Silks, Londji, Grimms, Holztiger, Ostheimer, Camden Rose and more. Amazing ointments and Home Remedies from Uriel; Beautiful cards and hundreds of book titles for children and adults from Wynstone Press, Floris Books, Steiner Press, Hawthorn, Lindisfarne, Mercury Press, Temple Lodge and much more. Great selection of organic and Canadian knitting yarn from Briggs and Little and Custom Woolen Mills.

Ph: 250-597-4763 ~ Located next to the Community Farm Store

BOOKS, SUPPLIES AND RESOURCES FOR PARENTS, EDUCATORS, HOMESCHOOLERS, CARERS AND ALL STUDENTS OF LIFE (SOL) Here at the Freya-Sophia Waldorf store we are inspired by the work of Rudolf Steiner and committed to meeting the soul needs of our children and our com-munity by providing books, toys, supplies, resources, classes, workshops, instruction, support and conversation to those who visit us. We are here to help and to support. To contact Nicolette directly email nicolette111@gmail.com. We are happy to accommodate requests for mail orders or driveby pickups. 34

New Hours

Starting September 2nd

OPEN 11-3 MON. TO SAT Closed Sundays and Stat Holidays.

Come see all the beautiful books, cards, toys, games, silks, candles and lovely wooden birthday rings we carry in our store to help make those birthdays into special celebrations. Something for everyone!

Through The Rainbow: by Lou Harvey-Zahra

Children’s birthdays are a time of reflection to look back over the last year, and remember the day they arrived in the world. The Waldorf tradition is to tell the birthday story - the tale of a little soul who crossed the rainbow bridge, came to earth, found a loving family and became the birthday boy or girl. The birthday story has been told for generations and holds a unique place in the hearts and memories of thousands of families. Through the Rainbow is a faithful and inspiring retelling of the most well known version of the story by parenting coach and Wal-dorf parent Lou Harvey-Zahra, and is accompanied by soft, ethereal il-lustrations by Waldorf artist and teacher Sara Parrilli. This beautiful pic-ture book can become part of a family’s traditions, read every year to celebrate a child’s special day. Through the Rainbow can be personal-ised, making it unique for each birthday child.

The Birthday Book: Celebrations for Everyone by Anne Druitt, Christine Fynes-Clinton, Marije Rowling; Packed with recipes, stories, songs and games, and ideas for cards, decorations, and presents, The Birthday Book is spiced with quotations from famous birthday celebrants and amusing historical anecdotes.

Birthday Rings & Ornaments The Grimm’s birthday rings are a wonderful birthday tradition where the parents can light a candle for each year for the birthday child, sharing a special memory of that year (starting with the birth story). Choose from a wide range of beautiful rings and ornaments. 35

Back To School Got You Confused? Time To Get Creative. Editorial by Ian Locke

s a most peculiar summer draws to a close, there is a question undoubtedly on the minds of all parents of school aged children. What will this school year actually look like? Though the province has released its official 5 stage plan, many would agree that it does not fully answer the question at hand as this is our first go at something of this widespread nature requiring changes this colossal, this

quickly. With those changes happening so quickly, the focus has largely been upon the resumption of an academic curriculum, and rightly so, as students have already missed a huge section of their studies in 2020. However, many parents and students have been left in limbo about the status of extra curricular activities like sports and various arts programs

WE HAVE WHAT YOU NEED FOR BACK TO SCHOOL LUNCHES! DELICIOUS BREADS, MUFFINS, COOKIES WHOLESOME SNACKS & TREATS which can be a vital part of the educational experience. Fortunately, for those in the Duncan area worried about either academic or extracurricular activities in the up 20/21 school year, there are options:

Warmland Dance

Exposure to, and engagement in the creative arts is a vital part of a well rounded education. This is something that the enthusiastic team at Warmland Dance are passionate about. Through their day programs, students can engage in a wide variety of BC accredited programs that will provide credits towards their high school diploma covering

various forms of dance and musical theatre in addition to visual arts like photography and filmmaking. Classes within the curriculum go beyond just the performance and into the history, science and philosophies of the art forms. Warmland Dance is much more than just a dance school for more information go to: warmlanddance.ca

Forte School Of Music

With band classes returning in a heavily modified state if at all and school drama productions likely put on hold, why not look to some affordable private options like Forte School Of Music. Music has long been shown to

have numerous benefits for young learners and in some cases a side effect of pop-stardom. Forte School Of Music on Station St. in downtown Duncan will be offering in person and online lessons to students in the disciplines of Voice, Piano, Ukulele, Guitar, Theory and Composing. Lessons are still being held in person, at a safe distance of course, but instructors have opened up a limited amount of online sessions for piano and singing. It’s never too late to welcome the gift of music into your life. Inquire today by going to forteschoolofmusic.ca.

Literacy Now

The word “literacy” is often exclusively associated with reading and writing skills,

however, it can cover a much broader range of topics. Literacy Now Cowichan is an organization offering multiple forms of literacy education since 2007.

Downtown Duncan shopcardinoshoes.com

The qualified staff and tutors at Literacy Now Cowichan offer lessons in English, numeracy (day to day math skills or upgrading), financial literacy and most interestingly digital literacy. In today’s world, interfacing with computers, tablets and smartphones is nearly unavoidable in our daily lives, so why not get up to 6 free lessons on the basics. There is no shame in wanting to improve your skills and understanding in any of these areas, and with the recent switch to online tutoring. it’s never been easier. Contact Literacy

Now and start the process of removing those unwanted frustrations in your life, they even offer valuable job skills training to prepare you for interviews or entering a trades program. Find out more at literacynowcowichan.ca

Chantel from Resthouse enjoys researching and sharing sleep tips

or as long as I can remember I have battled with chronic back pain as a result of scoliosis (a sideways curvature in the spine). Until recently, it was a fight I felt I was losing. The pain was disrupting my day to day activities, as well as preventing me from getting a good night’s sleep. I struggled to fall asleep, and when I finally dozed off, I found myself constantly waking up from the pain. I was a familiar face to chiropractors, doctors, and specialists of all kinds. None of their recommendations gave me any long term relief and so I was back to square one again, searching for a new fix. Earlier this year, I was introduced to a wool body pillow. Sleeping with one has been a game changer. Not only has it improved my sleep quality, but it has also effectively relieved my ongoing back pain. Who would have thought that between all of the healing therapies, my body

The Body Pillow & Healing Sleep pillow would have the most positive, consistent effect on my pain levels. So what is a body pillow all about? A body pillow fits between the knees, runs the length of the torso and is cradled between the arms, supporting the entire body to keep us correctly aligned. Most people sleep on their side, either predominantly or at some point during the night. Without a body pillow, when we fall asleep or turn onto our side during the night, our hips fall forward, causing our spine to twist and our shoulders to collapse.

The result is a very uncomfortable position that completely throws off our alignment. Whether you’re seeking relief from pain such as I was or just finding yourself tossing and turning all night, a body pillow can provide you with the extra support you need to get a good night of rest. Let’s go over a few other advantages of sleeping with a body pillow… • Prevents the upper body from collapsing and twisting as gravity pulls it down. Distributes weight evenly to improve blood circulation. Relieves muscular tension which helps you get to sleep faster. • Improves positioning and reduces pressure on the lower back, spine, shoulders and hips. • Allows the spine to fully relax, minimizing the need to shift positions to find comfort. Can help to ease snoring by keeping you from turning onto your back.

Since the spine supports our body all day, giving it relief at night is very important. Whether you suffer from chronic pain, are recovering from an injury or surgery, or just want to improve the quality of your sleep, a body pillow is a reliable and affordable sleep aid. Since I did not qualify for surgery (the degree of my curvature was not considered serious enough to operate), I am grateful to have been able to find a simple yet powerful tool to help me manage my pain. It would have been wonderful to know about it sooner...but I am sure glad I know now.

Resthouse Sleep Solutions 126 Station St, Duncan Street, Downtown Duncan 250-597-7378

NOW OPEN Tuesday - Friday 11am - 4pm Saturday 10am - 3pm Imagine That! Artisans’ Designs 251 Craig St., Downtown Duncan

In the spirit of the stay-cation why not do some Forest Bathing and celebrate our environment! Submitted by Kathie Tenold

hat is Forest Bathing? Here is what the Canadian Wildlife Federation has to say: “Think you’re just breathing in a little fresh air on your weekend hike? Think again. You’re forest bathing. Shinrinyoku, its formal title, is a concept that Japan adopted in 1982. Shinrin-yoku has shown to significantly improve people’s health. Forest bathing, in its essence, means taking in the forest atmosphere, to bathe one’s mind and soul with the forest. It turns out that heading out to the woods can really make an impact on your health. According to a variety of scientific studies, forest bathing can lower your blood pressure and pulse rate, reduce your cortisol levels (those nasty stress hormones), keep depression at bay, boost your energy levels, and kick your anger to the curb.

But don’t replace a proper hike in the woods with a little jaunt around the office. The two won’t produce the same effects. One study compared the cortisol levels in people after walking in a forest compared with those in an urban scene and found that those who walked among the trees had lower levels of stress hormones. So how long do you have to walk amid nature to reap the benefits? It turns out as little as 40 minutes of walking in a forest will result in improved mood and feelings of vigor. If you want to experience the full-blown benefits, consider spending some time walking in a forest setting every day.” Here on Vancouver Island we are living in a Forest Bathing paradise! The Cowichan Lake Trail that runs right though Duncan to Cowichan Lake is a great accessible trail for enjoying our beautiful forests. For more information on Forest bathing, check out these new or used books brought into our store: • Forest Bathing, A start here guide for beginners) by Cyndi Gilbert • Forest Bathing: how trees can help you find health and happiness, by Dr. Qing Li

imaginethatartisans.com I 250-748-6776

TEN OLD BOOKS

Always something for everyone

Great Selection of Used & New Books • Bestsellers & Award Winners • Classic Novels & Timeless Favourites • BC & Canadian Authors Plus Local Cards • Crafts • Children’s Books • Jewelry • Unique Gift Ideas and More!

102-330 Duncan St 250 -715-1383 Find us inside the historic Duncan Garage • Forest Bathing Retreat, find wholeness in the company of trees, by Hannah Fries • The Japanese Art of Shinrin Yoku, forest bathing, by Yoshifumi Miyazaki • Wild Calm, finding mindfulness in forest bathing, by Joan Vorderbruggen And…don’t forget to take a good hiking trail guide!

the Gulf Islands • Popular Day Hikes Vancouver Island • Vancouver Island BC Backroad Mapbook Ten Old Books 330 Duncan Street, Downtown Duncan 250 715-1383

We always have stock maps and copies of the best hiking trail guides for our area: • Hiking trails 2 , South Central Vancouver Island and 39

treatments and sometimes clients even say, “I’ll have what you’re having!” Here’s my answer to those queries and comments. I like to mix up my routine but overall there are 3 key ingredients that are important: sunblock with zinc every day, topical retin at night, and potent Vitamin C serum twice daily.

Dr. Lyn Pascoe Viva Medical Aesthetics

spent my childhood days on the beaches of New Zealand. It was gorgeous, but the long sunny days took their toll on my skin. When I started in Medical Aesthetics 20 years ago, my skin was in bad shape! I had sun damage, lines, and hyperpigmentation. Since then, I have used a combination of medicalgrade skin care products and effective treatments to repair and revitalize my skin. I am often asked about my favourite products and

I start my day with Skin Medica’s AHA/BHA Exfoliating Cleanser which provides gentle exfoliation. Next, I use Alumier’s EverActive C & E + Peptide Serum for antioxidant power. After that, I apply Skin Medica’s Rejuvenative Moisturizer to keep my skin soft and supple. Sunblock containing zinc is essential and it follows the moisturizer. I like Skin Medica’s Daily

Prudence

Natural Skincare & Cosmetics

Sunday 12-4pm, Monday 10-4pm Tuesday to Thursday 10-4pm, Friday 10-5:30pm • 155 Craig Street, Downtown Duncan

www.prudencenaturalbeauty.ca

WILLOWANDORCHID.COM

Weekly and monthly floral subscriptions • Weddings & Events • Customized Gift Crates • Floral Design Classes and Workshops • Sympathy Arrangements • Online, Telephone and Email Ordering • Delivery 101 Station Street Downtown Duncan 250-748-9868 willowandorchid@gmail.com 40

I’ll Have What She’s Having! Physical Defense SPF 34 sunblock as it contains zinc as well as a mix of powerful anti-oxidants. At night, I cleanse again with Skin Medica’s cleanser and then apply Alumier’s Retinol Resurfacing 0.5% Serum. My skin is fair so it only tolerates a 0.5% serum. The 1.0% product can cause dryness on my skin. Next, I use Alumier’s EverActive C & E + Peptide again followed by Skin Medica’s moisturizer. For treatments, I LOVE Laser Genesis. This is a no downtime, collagen building treatment that plumps your skin and gives it a soft texture. The Hollywood stars love this treatment before their red carpet appearances! I try to do one a month and for best results I like to combine it with a HydraFacial MD for our signature HYDRAGENESIS treatment.

Once a year I aim to do a Cutera Laser treatment to clear any browns or reds that have evolved from those damaging sun rays that are hard to avoid. To give my ageing lashes a plump up and some extra length, I use Latisse eyelash serum. Initially, I applied it daily, but now just 3 times a week will keep my lashes as long and thick as I want. The sun damage from my youth has diminished dramatically over the last number of years. A simple, effective regime can work wonders for you too. So, if you “want what I’m having”, combine medical-grade skin care products with one or two targeted treatment options and you can obtain the results that I have achieved. Viva Medical Aesthetics #4-177 Fourth Street Downtown Duncan 250 746-6512

Balsamic Apple Crumble

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

Ingredients

6 Local Apples ½ Lemon - juiced ¼ cup Sugar 2 tbsp The Olive Station Cinnamon Pear Balsamic Vinegar 2 tbsp The Olive station Maple Balsamic Vinegar 1 tsp Cinnamon ¼ tsp Sea Salt 2 tbsp Corn Starch Topping ¾ cup Brown Sugar ½ cup Whole Wheat Flour ¾ cup Rolled Oats ¼ tsp Sea Salt ½ cup The Olive station Butter Infused Extra Virgin Olive Oil ½ cup Pecans, chopped

Method

Bridging Nature with Arts and Culture Hosted by the Somenos Marsh Wildlife Society

1. Dice apples and place in a large bowl. 2. Add remaining filling ingredients to the bowl and toss with the apples until well combined. 3. In a separate bowl, combine topping ingredients. The topping should resemble wet sand once mixed well. 4. Pour apple mixture into a small pie or casserole dish. 5. Cover evenly with the topping. 6. Bake at 350ºF for 55-60 minutes, or until the apples are bubbly and the top starts to brown. 7. Allow to cool for 15-20 minutes before serving. 8. Serve with ice cream and an extra drizzle of The Olive Station Cinnamon Pear Balsamic! The 11th Annual WildWings Nature & Arts Festival is coming this October

This year’s WildWings will be a COVID safe but fun family affair with reduced activities that allow for social distancing

to learn more...

Facebook:@WildWingsFestival, E-mail: paul@fletcherfoto.ca Website: wildwingsfestival.com WildWings artwork by Jennifer Lawson, 2018 Artist of the Somenos

Fall Family Wellness Submitted by Tina Foster

any young ones are heading back to classrooms, and some are continuing homeschooling. Either way, children are learning wherever they are, and we want to keep them functioning at their best! And whole family wellness is crucial especially in these times. Establishing a Fall routine around school, incorporating ongoing hygienic practices, adequate activity, social time, and sleep is important. Parents can remind children (and themselves) about frequent hand-washing, toting around hand sanitizer when out and about, and trying not to touch your nose, sneezing into ones arm, etc. Regular bed times and limiting screen time will aid brain wellness. Getting outside together doesnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t have to end! Great time of year for walks, park time, bike riding, soccer, etc. The fresh air along with exercise is the best thing for the immune system, rejuvenating the lungs, and boosting mind/mood. Lets bring back eating together around the table! Kids can help out with meal prep, which will help them develop appreciation for healthy food choices and cooking. Eating whole foods, with extra fruits and veggies, quality proteins, healthy fats, while limiting junk and highly processed foods will help everyone in the family not only with their personal goals, but with immunity! Packing healthy lunches may take a but of extra planning, but needed as well. Healthy snacks on the go can include a piece of fruit, cut up

veggies and dip (hummus, yogurt), homemade granola or trailmixes, dried fruit, nuts and seeds. While lifestyle and diet is the foundation for health, supplementation can be ever so game-changing. Consider these daily vitamins for the family, as they will greatly aid in a stable, healthy immune system: 1. Vitamin C- a potent antioxidant, production of white blood cells. 2. Vitamin D- affects key immune cell, regulates and balances. 3. Quercetin- anti-allergenic, anti-inflammatory, anti-viral 4. Daily greens powder and multivitamins- helps fill in nutritional gaps, stabilizes, energizes, supports immunity and basic bodily functions. While you and your family transition into your Fall routine, hoping for you much excellent health and happiness! Donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t forget to support your local health food store, we are here for all your supplement and wellness needs. We are glad to assist you and answer questions. Be well, be safe, and kind to one another. Essential Remedies 141 Craig St Downtown Duncan (250) 748-9632

The Benefits of Sheep’s Wool For Joint Aches and Pain

o you suffer from Arthritis, Fibromyalgia or Osteoporosis? Does your body hurt more when there is a weather change coming? Wool may be your answer to less pain and discomfort. People with arthritis suffer from joint pain, stiffness that often worsen with age. Fibromyalgia is a chronic condition that causes pain in the bones and muscles that can affect sleep, memory and mood. Osteoporosis means ‘porous bone and results in weaker bone strength or density and symptoms are often back pain, stopped posture and fractures. Those with the above ailments can tell you there is a weather change coming. The extra moisture in the air is already felt in the joints and their overall energy levels may drop. Wrapping yourself in wool can assist by absorbing the extra moisture, sponging 30 to 40 % of its own weight and bringing natural warmth to the afflicted areas, alleviates aches and brings comfort. Health professionals tell us to drink half our body weight in water daily. A certain amount used to go up the spine, around the brain and returns downward

during the body’s repetitious cycle. The consumed water also detoxifies the organs and is released through our largest organ — which is the skin. To trap the moisture between the body and synthetic clothing or bedding creates a perfect environment for the bad bacteria to thrive. Our skin needs to breath, we do not have a choice about that. Arthritic people sleeping in wool bedding report a much deeper and longer sleep and often even sleep all night long. The soft flexible tubular coil cushions, (a shock absorber) eases the pressure points especially for fibromyalgia and osteoporosis sufferers. As a natural insulater, wool also promotes circulation. Wool will do all the work keeping your body to 37 Celsius all night long. If you have ever fallen asleep reading on the coach, chances are what will wake you up is that the temperature of your body which fell to a low. A hot drink will help us come around and function.

There is a small margin where the body functions at its best. The natural warmth of wool will keep the muscles soft all night long which once again eases the discomfort of the aches and pains that come Sheepskin mattress pad along with these chronic ailments. As a result you can use your energy to rejuvenate and heal which is what sleep is intended to do rather than work hard to keep your

body at its desired 37 Celsius state. Nature’s miracle, wool provides that sweet micro environment, a return to the womb.

Soul Comfort Sheepskin Wool 190 Fourth Street Downtown Duncan 250-737-1281

poem, What I Was Wearing.

What Were You Wearing?

n response to sexualized violence in the Cowichan Valley, Warmland Women’s Support Services Society is hosting an art installation, “What Were You Wearing?” to address victim blaming and rape myths. The “What Were You Wearing?” Survivor Art Installation originated at the University of Arkansas in 2013. Created by Jen Brockmanand and Dr. Mary WyandtHiebert, the project was inspired by Dr. Mary Simmerling’s

The art installation will be on display Saturday, September 5th at Charles Hoey Park from 10:00-2:00 and will be well marked to regard social distancing when viewing the display. Warmland Women’s Support Services invites community members to learn about affirmative consent, address rape myths and become more than a bystander to sexualized violence. FB warmlandwomen kthomas@ warmlandwomen.org for details.

Offering: •Drinks •Take Out •Frozen Meals to Go 100% Plant Based Comfort Foods With a Vegan Twist!

171 Canada Ave, Duncan (250) 597-8168 44

What I Was Wearing, by Dr. Mary Simmerling was this: from the top a white t-shirt cotton short-sleeved and round at the neck this was tucked into a jean skirt (also cotton) ending just above the knees and belted at the top underneath all this was a white cotton bra and white underpants (though probably not a set) on my feet white tennis shoes the kind one plays tennis in and then finally silver earrings, and lip gloss. this is what i was wearing that day that night that fourth of july in 1987. you may be wondering why this matters or even how i remember every item in such detail you see i have been asked this question many times it has been called to my mind many times this question this answer these details.

but my answer much awaited much anticipated seems flat somehow given the rest of the details of that night during which at some point i was raped. and i wonder what answer what details would give comfort could give comfort to you my questioners seeking comfort where there is alas no comfort to be found. if only it were so simple if only we could end rape by simply changing clothes. i remember also what he was wearing that night even though it’s true that no one has ever asked.

Warmland Women’s Support Services 331 St Julian Street, Downtown Duncan (250) 710-8177

In Support of a Guaranteed Liveable Income Alistair MacGregor is the MP for CowichanMalahat-Langford and the federal NDP’s Critic for Agriculture and Agrifood, Rural Economic Development and deputy Justice

ast month, my parliamentary colleague and fellow New Democrat, MP Leah Gazan, tabled Motion M-46: Guaranteed Livable Income, which states that “the government should introduce legislation and work with provincial and territorial governments and Indigenous peoples to ensure that a guaranteed livable basic income […] replace the Canada Emergency Response Benefit on an ongoing and permanent basis in a concerted effort to eradicate poverty and ensure the respect, dignity and security of all persons in respect of Canada’s domestic and international legal obligations.” This kind of progressive policy change has been increasingly requested by Canadians from across the country, and my office alone has received numerous calls, letters, and emails in support of a Universal Basic Income. But what is a UBI, or a Guaranteed Livable Income, and what would it look like? Pre-COVID-19, one in seven Canadians lived in poverty, a number that has increased greatly due to the pandemic.

Over 8.5 millions Canadians have applied for the Canada Emergency Response Benefit (CERB), and a transition to EI is expected in October. A Guaranteed Liveable Income would support these Canadians, as well as many others, in providing a set financial amount each month, without the bureaucratic hoops of programs such as EI. It would also reduce reliance on the current ‘welfare’ system, which often requires recipients to be effectively destitute before receiving support and penalizes smalllevel economic success by stopping payments if income levels rise slightly. A Guaranteed Livable Income would end this system by providing a financial top-up to all Canadians, without the additional need to report to social assistance offices and spend hours navigating complex bureaucratic systems. Recipients of such an income would invest it back into local economies, and the implementation of a Guaranteed Liveable Income would create an estimated $1-2 billion in savings due to reduced crime and judicial costs, as well as an additional $8-17 billion in reduced healthcare costs. A Guaranteed Livable Income would make an incredible difference in the lives of many. With it, families wouldn’t go in debt for unexpected expenses like vet bills or car repairs. Seniors would have their needs met after a lifetime of hard work. Students wouldn’t need to balance multiple jobs while in school, and could focus more on their studies. People

wouldn’t stop working; they would instead work jobs that they care about, or spend less time at an office and more time in their communities. We have an opportunity to build a better nation, one in which none of our citizens’ struggles to meet their basic needs. Leah Gazan, myself, and millions of others see and support this vision, and we

want to make it a reality. A Guaranteed Liveable Income is possible, and together, we can make it happen.

Alistair MacGregor, Member of Parliament 126 Ingram Street #101, Downtown Duncan

www.theainslie.ca 161 Kenneth St., Duncan 250-597-3695 45

eveloped by experienced educators and passionate artists, Warmland Dance will finally open their doors to offer an Independent Middle and High School option to Cowichan Valley families looking for quality, arts-infused education for their children. Warmland Academy offers innovative, inquiry-based Visual Arts and Performing Arts programs for Cowichan Valley students grades 5-12. Students may select either 3-day/week program in either Performing or Visual Arts, or combine both into a 5 days/week program. The academic curriculum, approached through an artful lens, is designed to provide students with a deeper connection to and investment in their own learning.

Warmland Arts Fall Registration

JOIN US

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

www.theoldﬁrehouse.ca

Downtown Duncan

(250) 597-3473

“We are meeting a very real need for quality, affordable, flexible, alternative education options in the Valley for this age group”, says Artistic Director Leah Burley, M.Ed. The programs’ for-credit courses will be carefully outlined to meet BC Ministry of Education curriculum requirements with the experience and guidance of the school’s Academic Administrator, and sought-after educator, Colin Cameron. Students will earn credit in the following curricular subject areas: Science, Social Studies, English, Career Planning, Applied Design/Technologies, and of course, the Arts. Students will also experience First Nations understandings as an important and integral part

of their learning. The Performing Arts program, led by the school’s founder Leah Burley, will also include practical voice, dance and acting training. Students will have opportunities to plan and showcase collaborative performances, give and receive feedback and develop a portfolio including audition reels, headshot photos and an impressive performing arts resume. The Visual Arts program, led by Sohee Hong from the Vancouver Film School, will also include practical and theoretical training in the areas of photography, film, directing, writing, multimedia art and design. Students will plan and host community showings of their work, give and receive feedback and develop a professional portfolio. For details or to register visit www.warmlanddance.ca/dayprograms

Warmland Dance 225 Canada Avenue Downtown Duncan

Rock I Funk I Blues I Reggae I Latin I Metal

Paul Jutras

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

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

250-732-7735 I chopsdrumschool@gmail.com

Exploring Ancient Percussive Sounds Paul Jutras, founder of CHOPS, drumming is my passion, and teaching is from my heart.

n a recent family trip to our West Coast, I found myself completely captivated by the waves and the thunderous noise they made smashing against rock. Wielding a commanding concussive vibration, it encompassed all acoustic space around me. At the moment of impact, nothing else could be heard. Being a drummer, this inevitably thrust my mind into speculation. What was the first percussive sound ever made? Were drums the first instrument conceived and fashioned by the hand of man? Did nature play the major role in its conception ? Well obviously, right?

Idiophones, meaning “ own voice “ were the first concussive/percussive instruments, and possibly the first ever musical instruments, along side the bone flute. Strike two rocks or sticks together, you have a concussive idiophone, very prehistoric. A percussive idiophone is hit by a striker, a stick or hand, causing the instrument, such as a wood block or rock gong, to vibrate. Around 35,000 years ago, some very interesting idiophones were being used. Animal jawbones were possibly the first rattles. Cleaned then dried to make the teeth loose, they made a buzzing sound when shaken.

a musician. People seeking shelter during winter, might have found these caves were incredible resonating chambers. Stalactites when struck send a resounding “boooong” echo, these were possibly the first percussive idiophones. You can still hear them played by musicians, at Luray caves in Virginia. So let’s get to the drums. Otherwise known as a membranophone, instruments with a stretched membrane (snake, cow and goat hide etc.) that vibrate when struck and produce sound. 10,000 years ago the first evidence of drums with animal skin heads emerged. But hold on... Mother Nature plays the first role here. Our eardrums are a timpanic membrane, and transmit sounds that vibrate it. It’s likely early people would not have known this when building the first drums. Our ancestors genius, imagination

and intuition, unknowingly recreated something we already naturally possessed. Early man experienced a cultural explosion when our tools became more advanced. Our communities grew larger and more complex with emerging sensibilities, and a highly developed sense of sacred. We began a dialogue with the spirit world through ritual. Noise and rhythms were created from the sounds found in the materials we had at hand, including the body itself. In a way we’re creating what Mother Nature has already provided us, a voice of our own. For those interested in exploring your own ancient rhythms Chops Drumschool is now taking registration for the Fall 2020 season. All lessons are one on one with physical distancing and safety measures in place.

Some 17,000 years ago in a cavern in southwestern France, an artist painted our first known picture of 47

A Thriving Arts and Cultural Community

Excellent Frameworks Presents Stéphanie Prest

urrounded by painting and other studio-based arts her whole life, Stéphanie Prest is an actively engaged artist from Montreal, now living in Victoria. Holding a BFA from Concordia University, she served as a member of the Painting and Drawing Students’ Association and acted as the Association’s Vice President during her senior year. Her varied endeavors include working with fashion and accessory designers Viola Blanca and Cheryl Fudge, mehndi (henna tattoos), flower arranging and photography. She is also greatly inspired by traveling and her trips to places such as Nantucket, France, Brazil and the West Coast.

Miacomet West, by Stéphanie Prest Acrylic on Canvas 30” x 40” $1800

Long inspired by vivid colours and the study of colour theory, Prest’s work has evolved as an exploration of colour, pattern and representation of physical forms. Stylistically influenced by artists such as Guido Molinari, Gustav Klimt and David Hockney, her love of nature and experience working with flowers can be seen in many of her painting series. Most Weirs Beach’ by Stéphanie Prest Acrylic on canvas 30”x40” $1800

recently, she explores landscapes and seascapes. Through photography and the subsequent painting, she attempts to capture the serenity and tranquility that occurs in nature. www.imprest.ca Excellent Frameworks Home of the EJ Hughes Gallery 115 Kenneth St., Downtown Duncan 250-746-7112

excellentframeworks.ca

A self-directed artist who found her artistic voice, Lisa Riehl has been creating on strong foundations and influences attained through numerous workshops she participated in, lead by notable artists such as Brent Lynch, Mike Svob, Janice Robertson, David Langevin, Stephen Quiller, Mark Haine and Brian Buckrell, to name just a few.

New Arrivals by Artist Lisa Riehl Aquamaris Art Gallery Victoria artist Lisa Riehl finds no shortage of inspiration for her West Coast themed landscapes. Painted primarily in acrylic and oil, Lisa’s vibrant, light-filled art reflects her love of the beautiful scenes that surround her. She is always out with her camera and sketch book, gathering references at the Vancouver Island beaches, in the forest or the mountains, to later transform them into brightly coloured landscapes that convey the feeling of nothing between the nature and the viewer.

Best known for her representational landscapes painted in the style uniquely her own, Lisa Riehl has gained a strong following and a broad collector base. As a Signature Status (AFCA) member with the Federation of Canadian Artists since 2011, Lisa is often invited to act as a jury member for the select art exhibitions. Herself a successful entrant into numerous juried FCA Shows in Vancouver and Victoria, as well as Sooke Fine Arts Show, Lisa Riehl has been an active, steady and inspirational presence on the regional art scene. Aquamaris Art Gallery Upstairs in the historic Duncan Garage Building (Level entry from the back) Suite 202 - 330 Duncan Street September Hours: Tuesday Saturday 10am-4:00pm CLOSED Sunday & Monday (250) 597-2798 aquamarisartgallery.com

Image; Distancing, by Lisa Riehl Oil on Canvas, 24” x 12”, $800

SEPTEMBER ARTS EVENTS

EJ Hughes Gallery & Excellent Frameworks

EJ Hughes Paints Boats by Robert Amos September Feature Boat lovers of all ages and people who enjoy the scenery of BC’s coast will delight in this charming gift book, a worthy addition to books about BC’s art history. In the course of his career, one of BC’s most beloved painters, E. J. Hughes (1913–2007), depicted paddle wheelers, steamships, fishing boats, and car ferries. Now The E. J. Hughes Book of Boats brings many of his coastal paintings of boats together in one handsome volume—a book for art lovers and boating enthusiasts alike. Robert Amos is the official biographer of E. J. Hughes, and works with the participation of the Estate of E. J. Hughes. The Book of Boats follows the success of his two geographically-based volumes, E. J. Hughes Paints Vancouver Island (2018) and E. J. Hughes Paints British Columbia (2019).

Featuring a display of images portrayed in Robert Amos’s new book “EJ Hughes Paints Boats” Open Wednesday -Saturday 11-3pm, Closed Sunday to Tuesday

Aquamaris Art Gallery

Visit us throughout the month to see the changing displays and new arrivals by our gallery artists September Hours: Tuesday - Saturday 10 am - 4 pm

This new compendium features never-before-seen sketches and photographs accompanying fullpage illustrations of some of the artist’s finest works. Excellent Frameworks Home of the EJ Hughes Gallery 24 Station St. Downtown Duncan, 250-746-7112 www.excellentframeworks.ca www.ejhughes.ca

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

Aquamaris Art Gallery in the historic Duncan Garage Building Suite 202 - 330 Duncan Street 250 597-2798 aquamarisartgallery.com 49

a park or at a rest area, they call people in to sit around and just listen. We always get the same questions, what are these instruments and how do I get one? It is then we realize how grateful we are to have been introduced to the Native American Flute, it has opened the path of playing a musical instrument, to music and to the family of folk instruments!

aren and I met Rommy Verlaan of Heartsong Flutes at the November 2017 Vancouver Circle Craft Fair. We stopped at her booth to admire the craftsmanship of the Native American Style Flutes (NAF) she was selling, the polished wooden flutes made from a variety of exotic and local woods with their intricately carved totems. As we walked away, I commented how I wished I could play music, especially on such beautiful instruments. As we wandered through the Fair, we talked about the flutes and how, for someone never having played an instrument, the Native American Flute would be challenging but would not require the years of practice that some instruments would demand. A few minutes later we were back at the booth, Karen wanting to buy a flute, myself asking Rommy “Are they difficult to play?” I had no music background and I swear I am tone deaf, I was told almost anybody could play a North American Flute! Okay! So not to be out done when my musical wife bought a flute for herself, I asked for one too! After all I was a guy who knew it all! Oh, how that changed! We took our flutes home and I quickly found out there is a lot to learn about reading music,

How the Flute Called Us! studying music, and playing music! After several months of making bad notes, squeaky noises, fumbled fingering, the six-holed North American Flute started to make music, of sorts of course, after all I had no musical background. Perseverance and a great musically talented wife saw to it that I started to learn to play and it sounded great! I was hooked and ended up playing every day and in 2018 I only missed playing 5 days in the whole year! Wow! Music is fun and is a great stress relief! Because when you play music you only focus on music, not on work or your daily troubles. Within the year I was looking for another flute, then another flute because now I was learning music, I wanted a flute for each scale! Scale you say! Yes, each flute has its own voice and speaks differently for each song! So the flute collection was started and now, three years later we have many, many flutes that were tuned so we can play the songs of some of the amazingly talented Native American Flute players from the First Nations people of the

western and southern United States and Canada. Some musicians have written music for these instruments from around the world, Celtic, Asian, South American, the flutes are flexible enough to allow many genres of music. They are very soothing, to play at home, in the park, at family gatherings and at times of personal loss! The music sings through the forests and backyards and is quite unique. Here in BC, the flutes are gaining popularity especially on Vancouver Island and in Vancouver. There are a few flute makers in BC, each with their own style. We especially like Heartsong Flutes as the majority are made from local, sustainable woods in Lake Cowichan and they sound great! Each flute has its own voice and Rommy has graciously created “sister flutes” for us because they are tuned to play together! Flutes on their own sound nice but together they are a voice that carries through the woods! These flutes are unique as are many folk playing instruments, they are not well known but when played in

Our flute family has grown and with that, the knowledge there is a lot to learn in life and music is certainly one of them! I know we will be looking for more flutes, it becomes something of an obsession, another wood or another scale for a slightly different tone, there’s no end to the variations, every one of our flutes has its own sound and spirit – it is wonderful! So, if you want to play an instrument for the first time, try a Native American Flute, it is not difficult to learn and can give you hours of pleasure and enjoyment!! Better yet, try these flutes with a musical partner and find out what you can achieve playing together! It is a lot of fun!

The flutes in the picture (left to right) are; Aromatic cedar F# minor with Loon totem, Maple C minor with Bird totem, Paduk C minor with Wolf totem, Red Nara Eb minor with Leaf totem, and Walnut/Maple F# with Bear totem. Keith O’Connor is an enthusiastic Vancouver resident with ambitions to learn folk music.

Fall Colour in the Garden

Dogwood

Bernie Dinter, Horticulturist and owner of Dinter’s Nursery

www.dinternursery.ca

e are blessed with four distinct seasons, and Fall is a wonderful season as nature puts on a final flourish of colour before going to sleep. The pressure is no longer on gardeners to keep things alive as during the hot Summer weather. Fall colour is not always as reliable on our coast as in other areas of the country. The best colour comes after a hot Summer or an early cool spell has stressed the plants. Plants that have not received enough water in Summers will often Ginko Biloba Tree

FALL BULBS

colour up on their own. red and purple. Fall colour is controlled by both the plant’s genetic factors and the environment. In Autumn, short days and cool temperatures slow down the production of chlorophyll, the remaining chlorophyll breaks down and disappears. Then the yellow pigments (xanthophyll) that have been masked by chlorophyll show up. These pigments give the Ginkgo its clear yellow colour. Larch, Birch, and Witch Hazel turn hues of yellow and gold. Some plants produce anthocyanins (red and purple pigments) that may mask the yellow pigments. Maples, Dogwood, Black Tupelo, Oaks and Euonymous seem to be on fire with

Lexington Spa A PROFESSIONAL MOBILE SPA THAT COMES TO YOU!

Cindy Beam, Owner

MANICURES • PEDICURES • REFLEXOLOGY

250-514-1380

Anthocyanin production increases with increased sugars in the leaves. A Fall season with sunny days and cool nights increases sugar content of the leaves and intensifies Fall reds. Orange is produced by carotene. The tans and browns of oaks are caused by tannins which accumulate as the chlorophyll disappears. Fall colour starts in September and ends in November with the larches and weeping willows. Frost and freezing temperatures will stop the coloration process and blacken the leaves. Some plants are more reliable for Fall colour such as Japanese and Eastern Red Maples. When selecting plants keep the Fall season in mind.

Nature’s Gift That Keeps Giving Plant your spring colour now.

Narcissus Tulips Hyacinths Crocus Snowdrops Iris Bluebells Flowering Onion and many other unique varieties Serving local gardeners since 1973

250 748 2023

5km South of Duncan on Hwy 1

www.lexingtonspa.ca I lexingtonspa@shaw.ca 51

S We’re having a Zoom Launch Party to celebrate a new Eminence Collection! Everyone who registers will receive a bag with samples of all the products needed for the Gemstone Facial Instruction and we’ll add a few extra goodies to enjoy.

You must register for this event by September 15th. Cost: $10 *Throughout this hour, we will be randomly drawing names for fabulous prizes! *We’ll pay the taxes on Eminence products purchased during this event!

soulescape@shaw.ca 250 748-2056 I www.soulescape.ca 109-2673 Beverly St., Duncan

CELEBRATING

11 YEARS IN BUSINESS IN THE

COWICHAN VALLEY Heronwood Custom Cabinetry Inc. Is a local custom cabinetry shop located in the Cowichan Valley. Heronwood is know for its meticulous craftsmanship and creative design.

VISIT OUR SHOWROOM

E4-4970 POLKEY RD. DUNCAN

250-597-4701

heronwoodcabinetry.ca 52

Soul Escape is Having A Party

oul Escape Spa is hosting a Zoom Party this month in collaboration with Eminence’s International trainer Katie Rattray! “We wanted to introduce the new Gemstone collection to the community and instead of our usual Ladies’ night, we had to create a safe way to party, where we can mingle and have fun with our ladies, while learning about skin care from an expert specialist. The Gemstone collection is made with natural gemstones (i.e. Malachite, Citrine, Tourmaline) as well as Blue matcha, tumeric, paprika, camelia oil and more. The line was created to uplift your whole being from inside out, stimulate your senses with powerful botanicals, to reveal balanced, energized glowing skin.

Everyone who registers will receive a bag with samples of all the products needed for the Gemstone Facial Instruction an activity that all Zoom Party participants will take part in with tutelage from Katie. We will also add a few extra goodies to enjoy and as with our Ladies Nights, there will be random draws for gifts throughout the event. The following day all Zoom Party attendees will be given a special opportunity to shop for their beauty needs tax free! Attendees must register in advance by September 15th. Cost is $10. The Soul Escape/Eminence Swag Bags will be available for pick up pre- event so everything they need to participate will be safely at home. Pick up will take place Tuesday Thursday 9am -3pm.For more information or to sign up call 250 748-2056 or email us at soulescape@shaw.ca

Staycation In Style at Affinity Guesthouse

id your event or summer travel plans catch a virus? Looking for something fun, safe and local to do with a small group of family or friends? Affinity Guesthouse is now available for vacation rental, daytime meetings or small events. Relax and Recharge with family or friends on this beautifully appointed, private 26 acre oasis which sits on a protected bird sanctuary at the confluence of the Koksilah and Cowichan rivers on the Cowichan Estuary where the rivers meet the sea. . The historic guesthouse sleeps up to 13 with additional outdoor area for campers or RV’s. 2 large bedrooms with lounge and private baths and an upper level bedroom with loft and pull out sofas make for spacious sleeping arrangements. Dine and recline on the large outdoor patio with gas fireplace, BBQ, woodfire pizza oven, large cozy seating and dining area and beautiful evening lighting. Enjoy the sounds of nature and expect to encounter herons, eagles, owls, ducks and loons. Daytime activities include strolling the property trails down to where the river meets the ocean. Dogs are welcome and are especially fond of trails and swimming. Kayak

or canoe with provided gear to charming Cowichan Bay for a meal or shopping run. After your day of hiking on nearby Mount Tzouhalem relax in the sauna or curl up with blankets by the gas fireplace on the outdoor patio. Light up the grill or pizza oven or enjoy movie night in the loft or games room with provided projector and popcorn machine.Kids young and old enjoy the treehouse, art and games room, ping pong, basketball and an area to ride bikes. Many locals have hosted or attended weddings, reunions, retreats, meetings, and seasonal parties at Affinity Guesthouse, a perfect venue for intimate gatherings of 2-12 or 15-50. Plenty of space to physical distance from others in your group if needed and lots of room to engage in fun indoor or outdoor activities. Strict sanitizing procedures take place between guest visits and rentals. Capacity is dictated and changing based on BC Ministry of Health protocals for Covid 19. Follow us on social media for contest giveaways and special local events. stay@affinityguesthouse.ca 5155 Samuel Road,Cowichan Bay 250-710-7391

We’ve a whale of a good reputation!

• • • •

Pool installs & liner replacements Hot tub service, including bio-film flushes Equipment repair/replacement & supplies Inspections & consultations Contact Mike, owner & certified technician

CALL: 250-466-4050 I TEXT: 778-837-0138 orcaspaservice@gmail.com

www.orcapoolandspa.com 53

cruel; it’s communication. Being told No is part of life. It helps your dog understand what you expect of her. A “No” needs to be connected to what just happened. She needs to understand the thing she did. Saying No needs to be balanced with other training tools, but saying “No” is not cruel.

LUCKY DOG Things that aren’t cruel

here is much debate about some things we do for dogs. I find that novice dog owners are the best at absorbing some odd information from other pet owners at the dog park. Dog professionals have different ideas and I hope I can clear up some of the cruelty myths you may be buying into. Your local professional loves dogs and sees dogs as being dogs, not fur babies

or extensions of their people. Dogs are amazing, but they are not humans. That is part of what makes them amazing. Let me try to dispel some common myths about what some consider cruel.

your dog. A crate provides a den to retreat to or with the door closed, a safe place for travel or relax while you leave her alone. There is plenty of online information on crate training humanely and properly.

Crate training: A crate is your dog’s private safe place. It is not a place to punish

Skipping the treats: Treats are great for early training, but eventually your dog should be doing things because you asked politely, not because you are a Pez dispenser. Not all treats are nutritious and the calories can add up. I had a client whose dog wouldn’t eat meals and after a short investigation I found the chubby dog to be too full of treats to eat a nutritious meal. Hmmm…. Treating dogs is more tied to our emotional attachment to food than theirs. Your dog will still love you if you give a bit of affection instead of another cookie, I promise.

LUCKY DOG Celebrating 7 Years!!!

Thank you to all our clients!

U Bath or WE Bath

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK!

We have professional grooming! ALL BREEDS + SIZES

250 597-7DOG

Book online!

www.luckydogubath.ca 1059 CANADA AVE DUNCAN • Affordable Drop Off Services • Large Capacity Machines • Ask About Pick Up Service

1606 Joan Ave Crofton 250-324-2249 54

Just north of Pots & Paraphanelia

Grooming: Some people think it’s cruel to give a dog a jazzy haircut. The dog doesn’t know he has a mohawk, so what’s it matter? A lot of breeds need regular grooming for their health. Making the cut look different or even adding vegetable-based dyes does no harm to the dog. It may not be aesthetically pleasing to you, but it isn’t cruel. Saying “No”: Telling your dog that you do not want her to do that again is not

OPEN: 9am to 9pm! 7 Days a Week

Training and control equipment: Some non-professionals are outraged that there are tools designed to keep a dog under control. I’m thinking about head collars, prong collars, e-collars, or anything that isn’t a Gucci harness. These tools are just tools and an untrained handler could do some cruel things. They may look like archaic devices to you, but to a trained handler, these tools can make all the difference to a dog’s life. Don’t judge what you don’t understand. (And while you’re fuming about my opinion, please throw away your Flexilead; Professionals hate those things!!) I see some absurdly lenient reactions by some dog owners out and about when their dog is clearly being bothersome to people or other dogs. I feel some people may be afraid to correct their dog in public because we are currently in such a shaming culture, but you are responsible for your dog and you are her advocate. Take control of your dog, apologize and move on. It is not cruel to insist on good behaviour. If you need help, talk to a professional. Debbie Wood is a certified Small Animal Naturopath and can be reached at 250-597-7DOG.

Collectibles Eclectibles Estates & More! Come Snoop Around!

Fall Paddle Tours at Blue Dog Kayaking

11 and under are come free of charge throughout June when accompanied by an adult on both Wildlife Watching and Sunset Tours.

t Blue Dog Kayaking our mission is to make Sea Kayaking an accessible recreational activity for all levels of paddler through innovative instruction and training programs with safety and enjoyment at the heart of everything we do.

Half Day Wildlife Watching Tour ‘The early bird catches the worm’ or in this case the Great Blue Heron catches a fish!

The Blue Dog team are all experienced paddlers and coaches, we want to understand your needs and commit to getting it right and as a small business we strive to offer an individualized service to you, our customer. Our goal is to ensure that you will feel comfortable, confident and safe on the water. Our half and full day tours are aimed at novice and recreational kayakers who want to enjoy a stress free paddling experience. These tours are offered from our Paddling Centers at Mill Bay Marina; with a certified guide to accompany you at a leisurely pace these tours are high on relaxation, interpretative talks and having fun. We welcome families; children

Our 3 hour guided wildlife tours follow the shoreline. On a typical day you can expect to see bald eagles, harbor seals and plenty of inter tidal life On exceptional days you can expect to see river otters, a sea lion or two, pacific white-sided dolphins and maybe even a whale! From your kayak you will be able to view an array of bird life in their natural habitat. Evening “Sunset Tour” This is a great way to be out on the water & enjoy the vibrant colors of the Sun setting.

our friendly Harbour Seal and River Otter population. Enjoy the beauty of Mt Baker in the background and marvel at the abundance of bird life and sea creatures or unwind and relax on our 2 hour Sunset rental suited to all levels. Dusk is a good time to see the local wildlife and enjoy the beauty of Mt Baker in the background. Enjoy the colourful sky and maybe reward yourself with a cocktail and meal at Bridgemans Bistro, before or

after the rental. 2 hour shoreline adventure rental - $40 per person 2 hour sunset adventure rental $40 per person *All prices include paddle board, paddle and PFD For information or to book email us at: Paddle@bluedogkayaking. com or call 1 (250) 929-1229 www.bluedogkayaking.com

Slow paced and relaxing there is no better way to unwind after a long day than a gentle paddle on a warm evening. This is a 2 hour guided Tour, no experience required. Sunset SUP rentals Explore the shoreline on this 2 hour adventure to suit all levels. It is a great way to view the local wildlife, make friends with

250 715 6174

Traditional Chinese Medicine Tips for Autumn

s a Traditional Chinese Medicine practitioner, I am acutely aware of the subtle shifts in nature and how the changes of these cycles impact our being. The Yellow Emperor’s Classic of Medicine says literally and metaphorically: “In the three months of Autumn all things in nature reach their full maturity. The grains ripen and harvesting occurs.” In other words, we too shift away from resting in the brightness of Summer and begin to prepare for Winter. The slight chill in the air and shorter days cause us to draw back and move inward for quiet introspection. Perhaps you’ve noticed a need for

quieter activities too. Autumn is also a time for setting boundaries and for letting go of the past. It is the season associated with the lungs, and the lungs express our sadness and grief. And there is a lot of grief to process this year. We have all been through major changes, and are continuing forward with uncertainty. Here are some ways from Yellow Emperor to be gentle and kind to yourself as the warm Yang of Summer sun quiets and cools, becoming more Yin. “One must keep the lung energy full, clean and quiet. This means practicing breathing exercises to enhance lung qi.” Return to your meditation practice or deep breathing exercises. Harmony in Autumn comes from the natural inhale and exhale in the lungs and especially from letting go of that which no longer serves us.

ACUPUNCTURE MASSAGE THERAPY HERBAL MEDICINE

Online Booking & Direct Billing www.pestleandpins.com

DR. KEVIN IANSON, Dr.TCM (R.Ac) AMANDA KNAPP, R.TCM.P (R.AC) CHELSEA RANEY, R.TCM.P (R.AC) EVAN MONCRIEFF, RMT

4705 Trans Canada Hwy I 250-889-9066 I Whippletree Junction

“Wind begins to stir” Wind is the climate which carries pathogens, and a few acupuncture points on the neck and ankles are about opening and closing to the wind. Wear a scarf to cover the back of the neck and conserve your energy so your body can focus on keeping your immune system strong. Switch to socks that cover your ankles. “One should retire with the sunset and arise with the dawn.” Whenever possible, allow yourself to sleep more. By the time winter comes, you will be grateful to have adjusted to the darkness of winter. You may even feel protected and comforted by the depth of Winter, rather than trying to fight for every available daylight hour. “Just as the weather turns harsh, so does the emotional

climate.” The Classic of Medicine also notes that this is the time to gather one’s energy and not let desires run wild. The time to plant seeds for the future is more fortuitous in spring. Unfortunately, many of us did not have the opportunity to go out in the world and achieve our goals or be creative in the ways we dreamed and envisioned last winter. This may either compound your grief or frustration this season, or propel you into overdrive while trying to make up for lost time. I wish there were an easy answer for that. Perhaps you will find yours in the breath.

Amanda Knapp is an R.TCM.P at Pestle & Pins at Whippletree Junction.

Diana Pink I 250 597-2102 I afreshstart@shaw.ca 56

“Indian head massage is an ancient therapeutic practice used in India for 1,000 years, by mothers on their daughters. It is also known as Champissage with the concept originally developed by women who used different oils according to the season (coconut, almond, olive mustard oil) to keep their long hair strong, lustrous and in beautiful condition. Barbers practiced many of the same skills with their male clients, cutting hair and offering the head massage as part of the treatment. It is found throughout India from Calcutta to Bombay, on a street corner, in markets and on the beach.” Helga describes “A champi is an invigorating scalp massage designed to stimulate and refresh the individual and was not considered part of a beauty regime. In the 1970’s a blind man from India by the name of Narendra Mehta, studied the ancient techniques of Champissage and extended it to include the upper back, arms, neck, shoulders and combined the Ayurvedic elements of balancing and clearing the top four chakras.”

Natural Heeling Indian Head Massage

t is another beautiful day in Duncan as I make my way to a hidden pocket of town where the Natural Heeling studio is located. I am booked in for an acupressure treatment known in Europe as Champissage, but referred to here as Indian Head Massage that focuses on the upper body’s head and limbs, an area that holds stress and fatigue especially in those who work regularly on the computer all day like myself. Owner and operator Helga Feichtinger is a highly certified health practitioner with many offerings at her studio - Reflexology, Reiki, Lymphatic Release and Swedish Massage. She felt inspired to add this traditional Ayurvedic treatment to bring something unique and beneficial for her community.

I arrive at her studio after one of her regulars Lisa Newman, owner of specialty foods company Lisa’s Own is finishing up.

Sunday Service 9 AM Weekly

Lisa shares some insight on how beneficial regular appointments have been for her wellbeing. “I come to Helga for a head massage before my chiropractor and for reflexology about once a month. After an Indian head massage I feel very relaxed and much looser in my shoulder blades, neck and arms. I began chiropractic treatments only a couple years ago as I have found that as the aging process comes, there is a little more stiffness and I wanted to be able to maintain a healthy and active lifestyle. I carry a lot of tightness between my shoulder blades and was experimenting with different exercises, massage etc. After my first Indian Head Massage-Chiropractor sequence my chiropractor noticed right away that things were looser in my shoulder blades and since then have continued to combine the treatments on a regular basis. I have really found that this combo works excellent for me! I highly recommend you book an appointment if you are at all curious and the only regret you may have is why you took so long!” There’s nothing like word of mouth to entice me to try something new. In preparation for my treatment I wore no make up or jewelry and was provided with a towel to cover my upper body. Lights were dimmed as I sat comfortably in a chair and given a low footstool. Helga’s strong hands began right away finding those tight and tense areas on the upper back and

shoulders loosening up the knots. With good pressure she worked on the forearms and upper arms eventually rubbing each hand with gentle attention to each and every finger. Office workers with varying levels of arthritis will find this especially therapeutic as busy hands are often missed in a massage. “We hold much of our stress in our upper body as it tends to accumulate there, and through massage it helps to unknot blockages and relieve uncomfortabe tension”. adds Helga “Massaging the scalp stimulates the flow of blood to the follicles, improving the supply of nutrients needed for healthy hair growth”. Treatment continues on the scalp and head and lightly along the counters of the face. As the treatment ends the tension has been replaced with a gentle feeling of calm relaxation. Helga’s Indian Head Massage treatment runs for a dreamy 50 minutes and your only job is to close your eyes and keep breathing allowing her to deeply rub, cup, press, sweep, pull and tap away your tension in expert technique. Helga Feichtinger offers Reiki, Indian Head Massage, Lymphatic Release Technique and Swedish Massage from her studio Natural Heeling. 250-732-7988 www. naturalheelingreflexology. com Sheila Badman, happy wife and mother of two, loves experiencing the treasures of Cowichan, both indoors and out.

Meditations: Courage - Compassion Communion - Current

Nichiren Buddha Society, a Peaceful Community PH:/Txt: 250 - 710 - 7594 57

How we treat people is how we will treat the forests.

hile writing an article about bullying in Maple Bay recently, I asked friends to look it over. Not for the first time some said: “Make sure you say your family goes back to the late 1800s in the Valley and that you were born here.” “I did that once before in a forest article,” I said, “and felt ashamed. It plays into the mentality that people born here have special status over those who weren’t; it reeks of nativism, and I have friends here whose ancestors go back thousands of years. There’s no way I’m doing it again.” But friends insisted it would give me credibility and given what I was about to expose, I needed all the credibility I could get. (My Name Is Icel. No, I’m Not A Terrorist wheredowestand.ca) I asked more friends and then, I blush to say, included my ancestry in the piece. It made no difference; after it went out there, the group didn’t belittle me (unless calling someone age 58 “elderly” is age shaming), but did continue to verbally attack a woman running a community Facebook page, including for being American—not from around these parts like we

UNMASKED: The Pandora’s Box Of The Valley good ol’ boys and gals, and how dare an outsider ban locals from her page just ‘cause of a few “joking” comments—all in good fun. So, friends were right—at least about the nativism that is alive and well in some parts of our community. Therefore beginning with myself, I’m pointing the finger, because as I have now admitted, I behaved like a nativist.

Up until writing this article, I’d never heard of “nativism”—or if I had, I thought it referred to people whose roots went back millennia. It doesn’t. It refers to anyone born in a place who feels superior to newcomers. I mention this not as the point of this piece but as an ironic part of what feels like a monster unmasked and unleashed from out of the Pandora’s Box I didn’t know I was opening. Image Chris Istace

After the bullying piece was published, I was talking with a friend about it. His ancestors happen to go back many thousands of years here, and yet he is not a nativist; he is a humanist. This friend and I have often walked and talked through the local Six Mountains Forest we have been advocating for and I’ve never heard him speak of anyone who has arrived here in the past two hundred years as being less entitled to be here than he and his family. When he heard about the bullying he paused and then said, “It’s on the rise. It’s happening everywhere. It just happened to my two grandchildren.” Then he told me the terrible story. In short, his grandchildren, age ten and twelve, were biking through a Duncan neighbourhood. A group of adults started yelling, calling them “black skins” and telling them to get back to the reserve. For the second time in a week, I felt shock and horror. Anyone who has studied history knows there is a fine line between verbal bullying and the lynch mob mentality, and it applies to all places, people, nations and tribes. All shaming, aggression and abuses are one. Friends warn that if I publish this story, the forest movement begun by Where Do We Stand may lose supporters; they advise I

mothers rob their children of their innocence so early?

stick to the forests, but for me they are inseparable: How we treat all people is how we will treat nature, vice versa, and to be silent is to be complicit. The grandchildren of a friend are traumatized— they are not the only ones. As when children are attacked by a dog and grow to fear and hate dogs, a terrible seed has been planted. The grandfather and I talk about this seed growing in the hearts of other children and families who have heard the bullying story, and other stories like it that if not rooted will grow deep, mutating from fear to hatred growing in our Valley. In our hearts, we all know the story. Aggressions not brought into the open and addressed grow to become the sins of the fathers inherited by the children. It is manifesting now, beyond our valley, taking the form of rioting and violence. There is never justification

for violence—it only begets more violence and fear. However, violence is inevitable when people who know better do not speak out; so I’m putting my name on the line by telling a story that is not political but personal, about you and me. Many of you have heard the grandfather in this story speak at Council and forest meetings. (He has given his blessing for this piece to be published, and for the sake of his family will go by “grandfather.”) A teacher of nature and traditions born of thousands of years of relationship with nature, he is invited all over the Southern Island to speak and is respected wherever he goes. He has taught his family the ways of loving kindness; however, his message alone will not be enough to stop the disease of fear from growing. Parents come into the story—mothers and grandmothers join together to take steps to protect their

children. What do they do? Warn their children of all people who are not of their tribe—and, furthermore, also of their own? Bullying and abuses are going on here as much as there, say friends living on the Reserve. It is a reality we all share. Like maternal instincts that transcend cultural differences and extend to all children, there are growing reasons many women are saying it is time for mothers of all communities to come together. Our children watch us with eyes open wide. In their neighbourhood the grandfather’s grandchildren play with four children, age three to twelve, who I have loved for years like grandchildren. Together we have walked through the forests. To their mother, a close friend, I speak about the recent bullying incident. She says it happens all the time. She and her friends wrestle with what to do. Must

The friends I’m describing to you are some of the gentlest, kindest people I’ve known so, as I’ve said, the bullying is personal— it breaks my heart and compels me, after the last bullying article, one story occurring on top of the other, to write this plea, in hope and faith that the hundreds of people who have connected through the forests and who, opposed to the destruction of forest ecosystems, if they knew about bullying happening in our community would want to do something to make a difference—if they only knew how. There is something we can all do. The timing is perfect, as if poised. We are paused within a pause. As we watch the pandemic on the rise, as our worlds shrink, as we question what we have taken for granted, as we wait for public consultation about the forests to finally begin in the way we asked for, what happens next will require that people in two separate and yet physically connected communities come together as has never before happened in our Valley. Because of the forests, an unprecedented, profound, potential healing may be about to occur— voices from our different communities uniting to protect the paradise where 59

we live. The pandemic prevents us from coming together in a walk of solidarity against bullying and abuses of all people and nature, but there are many ways to overcome the divide. For myself, I see a Dr. Seuss image—our little community isolated, metaphorically floating on a dust speck poised over a boiling vat, the future held in an elephant’s trunk. (Such is the power of childhood stories and events to become transfixed, for good or for evil, forever in imagination.) There are dark forces but they are the illusion and all it takes to break through is the

courage to raise our voices together. Whether our roots go deep or have been recently transplanted in the Valley, through social media we can take a stand; we can call out to all people being shamed: “We are here, we do not tolerate bullying and we stand in front, beside and behind you!” And for those who are not on social media, in 2019, within two weeks, 700 people wrote in to WDWS to stop the “blowdown harvest”/logging on Stoney Hill: What if 700 people took one minute to put their names on the line again, this time to support two children, their

families, reaching outward to friends, neighbours, community… You think it is not enough to make a difference? Maybe it is not quite enough. Maybe the years of our busy lives and busy minds have eroded the depths of our collective grown-up consciousness. But we’re not talking about having the courage and consciousness of an elephant to stand alone— we’re talking about taking a stand together. What if only two children heard our voices? What if, upon reading—hearing a resounding We are here, suddenly feeling fearless and free, these two children climbed back on their bikes

to ride across the mountain tops calling: We are here! You think your voice cannot break through the darkness? Change in the world has always begun small. What if you spoke out and your voice reached only one child hiding in the dark, and that child were to whisper, I am here, I am here… Would you put your name on the line? Many heroes arise when one ray of light breaks through. To sign on, go to https:// www.wheredowestand.ca/ bullying

Sands Funeral Chapel

Cremation & Reception Centre-Duncan by Arbor Memorial

Janice Winfrey Funeral Director

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

A Lasting Legacy

he pandemic has changed our lives in fundamental ways. We struggle, we cope, we struggle some more. Our perception of who we are in the world shifts. We may reprioritize what we are doing and who we are sharing our time with as we consider what is most important. We may even contemplate our own death. Intrinsically we know death is inevitable, although we often distract ourselves from this fundamental truth. Studies have shown that reflecting on our own death can lessen feelings of hopelessness and increase life’s meaning and purpose. One thing to contemplate is the idea of legacy. What will be left behind when you leave this world? Maybe you have produced a work of art, maybe you have raised a family, maybe you have passed along family stories, or helped others, or been a mentor or teacher, or lived lightly on the earth. No matter who you are or how you have lived your life, you will leave something behind. A thoughtful exercise is to write your own obituary or eulogy. What have been the important moments of your

life so far? What are you proud of? How would you like to be remembered by the people you love? What have you not yet completed that you would like to add to your list of accomplishments? You might even consider sharing what you have written with those close to you. Do you think they know what you consider your greatest achievements to be? When we reflect on our legacy, we see the connection our lives have to those who came before us and to those who will still be here after we leave. Fundamentally, this connection is what gives meaning to our lives. In these uncertain times, knowing this may bring some comfort as we re-evaluate and contemplate our own legacy in the world. If you want more information on how to get started, or for assistance on any issue related to end of life planning, please contact us through www. greatcircleplanning.ca – we’re here to help!

Jan Thompson is a registered end of life doula and co-founder of Great Circle End of Life Planning.

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Licensed Real Estate Consultant RE/MAX of Duncan - Mill Bay 472 Trans Canada Highway Ofﬁce: 250.748.7200 www.faizal.charania.remax.ca • Residential • Agri Business • Strata I mobile (250) 732.5250 61

Massive Old-Growth Yellow Cedars, Including Canada’s Ninth-Widest, Under Threat In One Of Vancouver Island’s Last Intact Valleys Rare old-growth trees in Fairy Creek headwaters near Port Renfrew, where protesters have been blockading Teal-Jones’ road building efforts, at risk of logging unless BC government intervenes.

onservationists with the Ancient Forest Alliance (AFA) have identified spectacular, near record-sized ancient yellow cedars at risk of logging by TealJones Group in the headwaters of Fairy Creek, the last unlogged old-growth valley on southern Vancouver Island (outside of parks), located northeast of Port Renfrew in Pacheedaht territory. AFA campaigners explored the unprotected headwaters - the site of an ongoing logging blockade - over the weekend and documented the massive trees, which appear to be within a proposed cutblock. One of them measured 9.5 feet in diameter, making it wider than the ninthwidest yellow cedar in Canada, according to the BC Big Tree Registry. The group also located a number of exceptionally large western hemlocks as well. “These are some of the biggest, most remarkable yellow cedars we’ve ever seen,” stated AFA campaigner and photographer TJ Watt. “Yellow cedars are among the longest-lived life forms in Canada, with the oldest one, located on the Sunshine Coast and cut down in 1993, recorded as being 1,835 years old. At 9.5 feet wide, the largest one we measured in the Fairy Creek headwaters could very well be approaching 2,000 years in age.” Teal-Jones Group recently began building roads along the ridgeline

above Fairy Creek, about four kilometres up from the popular Fairy Lake. The company also has approved permits to build roads extending down into the headwaters and on the ridgeline on the opposite side of the upper valley. While there are currently no pending or approved cutblock applications at this time, falling boundary tape found within the valley headwaters indicates that it could be part of their future plans. “Blasting these roads in opens the door to future fragmentation of Fairy Creek,” stated TJ Watt. “While thankfully much of the mid-valley is protected in an Old Growth Management Area and Wildlife Habitat Area for threatened marbled murrelets, it’s critical this remarkably rare, unlogged valley remains fully intact and functioning. Most of BC’s old-growth forests exist in small tattered fragments, putting biodiversity and ecosystem integrity at great risk. We can’t allow this to happen here.” In response to Teal-Jones’ incursion into the Fairy Creek headwaters, a group of protestors set up a blockade on Monday to stop road building crews and demand that the BC government intervene to protect the entire valley. The protesters, who are not affiliated with any organization, are also calling on the province to immediately release the results of its Old Growth Strategic Review. As a result, the contractor has

removed their road building machines from the site. “This blockade, the recent two-week hunger strike by James Darling and Robert Fuller in Nanaimo, and yesterday’s protest outside Claire Travena’s MLA office in Campbell River illustrate how outraged and frustrated people are,” stated AFA campaigner Andrea Inness. “There’s now a growing movement to pressure the NDP government to enact immediate moratoria in the high productivity, most endangered, and the most intact old-growth tracts like Fairy Creek - termed old-growth “hotspots” - while it works to develop its proposed Old Growth Strategy.” In May, an independent panel tasked with conducting a province-wide Old Growth Strategic Review submitted their recommendations to the province on how best to manage oldgrowth. As the BC government stalls on releasing those recommendations and announcing its policy intentions, old-growth is becoming increasingly endangered throughout BC. “A recent independent analysis found that only 2.7% of BC’s high productivity, big tree oldgrowth forests are standing today and over 75% of what remains is slated for logging in coming years,” stated Inness. “Despite

Giant Yellow Cedar

these alarming statistics, the BC government has failed to embrace the study’s findings, has failed to act, and continues to allow logging in these irreplaceable ecosystems.” “The province needs to recognize the importance of BC’s oldgrowth forests for ecosystem and climate resilience, as well as human health and wellbeing,” stated Inness. “We need to hear strong commitments from the BC NDP and details of its plan to protect old-growth forests, based on recommendations from the independent panel.” “BC’s strategy to ‘build back better’ following the economic downturn that’s resulted from COVID-19 must also include an economic plan to help forestry workers transition to a valueadded, second-growth industry.” “We’re calling on the BC government to develop a sciencebased plan with targets and timelines to protect old-growth forests in all forest types. It’s also vital the province commit funding to support First Nations land-use planning and development of a conservation-based economy tied to the creation of Indigenous Protected Areas and the protection of old-growth forests in their unceded territories.” www.ancientforestalliance.org

New road at Fairy Creek for new access to Old Growth

Images courtesy TJ Watt

What Can I Do To Support Today? Local biologist Genevieve Singleton and her husband, Dave Polster, renowned plant ecologist and restoration expert, have recently returned from visiting one of the Fairy Creek blockades in support of the protestors. Gratitude to them for sharing images, words and insight.. Gratitude Dave and I with our hearts full by old growth ‘Xpey. We could feel.its presence, the ground to the campers beneath our feet was as bouncy as a good staying on site and dance floor. the many others fighting to save province, why not keep it? these last remaining standing Old Growth trees, west of the This is not about taking away Cowichan Valley. forestry jobs, it’s about keeping The issue - Teal Jones, one of the largest privately owned forest product companies on the West Coast, is attempting to road build into one of the very last intact old growth watersheds in the south-central Vancouver Island area, near Port Renfrew. Our provincial government is not taking steps to stop this, despite an outcry from the public. An ad hoc group of folks are up there in the clouds right now trying to keep the construction work from proceeding in order to save the Fairy Creek watershed and promote the preservation of remaining old growth forest on Vancouver Island and BC. We are down to less than 3 % or so of large productive forest left in our

what is left of the ancient forests while ensuring that sustainable forestry jobs are maintained. You can help by visiting one of the friendly blockades or support the cause by calling the Premiers office, by writing letters to your provincial rep, signing petitions with Ancient Forest Alliance and doing a bit of fun research to see what else you can assist with. FAIRY CREEK IS WITHIN PREMIER JOHN HORGAN’S OWN RIDING. SPEAK UP! CONTACT HIM AND THE OTHER DECISION MAKERS • TWEET: @JJHorgan @ DonaldsonDoug @ GeorgeHeyman

If you want to come in person be prepared with proper clothing and bear aware food storage. Bring enough to feed only yourself and not others. Money is the most useful thing

to provide to help the cause it enables those out there to keep doing what they are doing for us. rain4estflyingsquad@gmail. com is the address to e-transfer donations to. I guarantee personally this is a legitimate address for this project. It is time for our government to release the much anticipated old growth logging report they are sitting on and it is time they stood up tall and say no to old growth logging. I am not anti-logging, I am against old growth logging and pro sustainable logging.

Irvin Bahnmann at Fairy Creek

• EMAIL: John Horgan at premier@gov.bc.ca & Forest Minister Doug Donaldson at FLNR.Minister@gov.bc.ca • CALL: John Horgan’s office at 250-387-1715 & Doug Donaldson’s office at 250387-6240. • SEND-A-MESSAGE VIA: www.AncientForestAlliance. org/send-a-message

Our Official Community Plan - YOUR CALL TO ACTION

valued, we must use the North Cowichan’s survey as a means to make our views known.

Submitted by Marilyn Palmer

If enough of us identify issues that are critically important, we will have a chance to move the dial significantly in the direction we believe is critical to the future health of our community.

orth Cowichan is completing a 20 year community plan to shape our community’s vision as defined by land-use and development policies. If we want to communicate what is important to us, what we like and don’t like about North Cowichan policies, what must be improved and what aspects of our community are most

The results of this survey will form the foundation of a new Official Community Plan, and future decisions about land use and development will be made based on the vision and priorities stated in this survey.

Some key issues that could be addressed include: 1) Land use policy should direct growth to areas that will strengthen existing cores

and lead to energy efficient, walkable and compact communities. If we’re concerned about the type and pace of development, we need to say so.

example, in order to reinstate the health of Quamichan Lake, the Quamichan watershed should be removed from the growth centre and thereby not developed to urban densities.

2) Our approach to growth management must take environmental protections much more seriously. For

3) We must stop polluting Quamichan and Somenos Lakes with stormwater and

runoff, causing poisonous blue green algae blooms. 4) Land with agricultural potential should not be developed for housing. Food security must be taken more seriously. 5) Our Municipal Forest lands and their management plans must be included in the OCP. If we don’t want to see any more Municipal clearcutting we must say so. 6) Our new OCP policies must better identify and preserve rural / community character of each community and should map and protect heritage structures, roadways and landscapes. 7) Rare ecosystems, such as those found in the Quamichan watershed, must be identified, mapped and protected. 8) If we want more emphasis on local climate change initiatives, we must make our opinions known. 9) If we want a tree protection by-law to be part of our development regulation, we must identify it as a requirement.

We don’t need to respond to every question - simply give our opinions about what’s important. If we care about our community and want to help shape its vision and priorities - now is the time!. You can fill out the survey: Online: at https://www. northcowichan.ca/ocp Download a pdf version at https://wheredowestand.ca/ survey By phone: call 250-746-3263 to complete the survey with a staff member Paper: You can pickup the paper survey at the Municipal Office or download a pdf version at https:// wheredowestand.ca/survey 250-929-8381 tracey@ cleanchoicecleaners.com

We’re in this together!

Clean Choice hopes that everyone is keeping healthy and safe. During these ever-changing times, we have been busy monitoring recommendations issued by Health Canada and have updated our products, equipment and services accordingly. In order to provide the most safe and effective cleaning, new policies have been put in place that include 10-Point Disinfection with every clean, PPE for staff, equipment saintized after every clean, committed to keeping staff home if they show any signs of illness. Call to ﬁnd out more about our all-surface, wholeroom disinfection service for home or oﬃce. Totally green, health Canada registered disinfectant. www.cIeanchoicecIeaners.com 65

EQUINOX NATIVE AMERICAN FLUTE EVENT Rommy Verlaan is the creator of Heart Song Native American Style flutes in Lake Cowichan.

he equinox is something that lasts for only moments at the equator. It occurs as the sun rises in the one hemisphere and sets in the other, a moment where both Northern and Southern poles are in daylight. The September equinox also marks the end of Summer and the beginning of Autumn. This happens this year on September 22.

American Flute players together to play and celebrate the ancient sound of these flutes, I like to time this with special natural events occurring, connecting us not only to the trees, water and our environment close at hand, but also to the larger picture of the cycles of our planet as we float and spin seemingly without beginning and without end, with such precision in the vast universe. I am once again calling all Native American Flute players and enthusiasts to play in one of our wonderful parks in the Cowichan Valley on Sunday, September 20 from 11-1pm, to celebrate the ancient sound of these flute and (We will be respecting Social Distancing and limiting the amount of people)

The new moon is when the moon is directly between the earth and the sun. The new moon marks the beginning of the lunar cycle. This happens this month on September 17th. In Ancient times these moments were celebrated in a variety of ways. Hearing the ancient sound of a Native American Flute out in nature can be haunting, and magical. Playing these flutes in nature, is one way to connect us, in a uniquely special way to the wonderful, natural environment we are so lucky to live in. While anytime can be a wonderful time to gather Native

ITS FIRE CIDER SEASON

old and flu season is almost upon us, with the added menace of COVID to consider. One of the best ways to protect yourself is to keep your immune system strong and healthy. Our “innate” immune system attacks outside invaders such as bacteria, viruses, fungi,

and toxins and our “adaptive” immune system creates antibodies to fight subsequent invasions. Your first line of immune system defense is to live a healthy lifestyle, particularly as we age and our immune system weakens naturally. Eat good quality organic food with an emphasis on fruits and vegetables, reduce sugar intake, get adequate sleep, don’t smoke, avoid or minimize alcohol and coffee consumption, reduce stress, maintain a healthy weight, laugh more, hug those you love, and exercise regularly, especially outdoors in the sun. Tens of thousands of scientific articles on the efficacy of diet and nutrition on immune health can be found on PubMed but are being largely ignored in the current debate. Herbal medicine provides excellent options to fight sniffles, sneezes, runny nose, coughs, aches and fever using widely available foods. Fire Cider is a “cold and flu tonic”, a zesty blend of vinegar packed with immune-stimulating, anti-viral, anti-bacterial, decongestant, circulatorystimulating plants that you can make at home: 1. Fill a large canning jar with approx. equal volumes of the following chopped fresh organic herbs and spices: • garlic, onion, horseradish, ginger (never powdered), lemon; 2. Add a couple of tablespoons each of: • fresh rosemary, thyme, oregano, sage, dried cinnamon and dried elderberries; 3. Add one hot pepper or less depending upon your tolerance

for spiciness, 4. Pour organic apple cider vinegar overtop to fill the jar and seal. Allow the mix to steep for up to 4 weeks before straining, though if you are feeling a cold or flu coming on, you can use it the next day. Don’t worry if you don’t have all these ingredients – use what you have on hand. You may wish to add raw honey to taste after the Cider is finished – kids love it sweeter. I take about a teaspoon or more every morning with a little water or juice as a preventative all winter long, and when I feel a cold or flu coming, I take it every 2 hours WITHOUT FAIL. I do a double shot at bedtime. I continue dosing regularly until symptoms resolve and then go back to the maintenance dose. Always dilute Fire Cider in water or juice as the apple cider vinegar can be corrosive to dental enamel with prolonged use. Do it as a shooter! I’ve had much success with this blend for the last ten years and am happy to share it. My Fire Cider is also available at the Community Farm Store and Glow Juicery in Duncan, the Duncan Market every Saturday, and on line at www.botanicalbliss.ca

Robin Round, is a Chartered Herbalist and Aromatherapist with over 25 years of experience working with plants.

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

With a little uncertainty about what the return to school will look like, creating a daily rhythm is more important than ever. Getting up at the same time every day, eating a nourishing breakfast, and having kids pack their own healthy lunches can help reduce stress and anxiety for everyone. For those of you with children returning to the classroom, we hope our new extended Fall hours– Monday-Saturday 9-6 –will be helpful for dropping kids off at school and then dropping in for a peaceful, childless shopping experience. The CFS Café is Open for Takeout! Chef James serves up a delicious soup & sandwich every Monday, Wednesday, and Friday from 10-3. All items are take out. If you missed the Cafe during those hours, our Grab & Go Cooler is packed with all kinds of yummy CFS Housemade offerings to enjoy in your favourite park or to bring home. The CFS Cafe will be open from 10-3 on Labour Day Monday, September 7th.

Win a Basketful of Nut Butter! During the month of September, any purchase of a Baraka product (basket, baobob or shea butter) gives CFS Members a chance to win a beautiful baby basket filled with 3 Nuts to You products! There are four prizes to be won, with weekly draws on the 9th, 16th, 24rd and 30th. Courtesy of our friends at Nuts to You, a family owned Canadian company. Good luck!

The Community Farm Store

Organic Health & Whole Food Market www.communityfarmstore.ca

2-5380 Hwy 1, Duncan BC V9L 6W4 250-748-622

CFS Hours

CFS for the Soul Hours

Monday-Saturday 10-6 Monday-Saturday 11-3 Closed Sunday Closed Sunday Open Labour Day Monday, September 7th 10-6 Closed Labour Day Please follow our Facebook Page for the latest information

Thank you to our wonderful customers and community. We appreciate everything you are doing to help us and each other. 67

industry group claims forestry in Canada is “part of the circular economy.” It’s true that in modern mills most harvested trees are used for a variety of products. And it’s true that forests are renewable, in the sense that trees can be cut down and new ones planted. But forests that have been logged and regenerated are vastly different from forests untouched by industrial management.

Circular Economy Is Too Important To Be Co-Opted By Industry

David Suzuki is a scientist, broadcaster, author and co-founder of the David Suzuki Foundation.

any people are calling for a just, green recovery from the COVID-19 pandemic. Investing in natural solutions to climate change, restoring damaged and fragmented ecosystems, strengthening the social safety net and rethinking flawed economic systems would make us more resilient to current and future crises. One concept that could help us shift to ecologically sound economic systems is the “circular economy,” in which the need to extract resources from undeveloped natural ecosystems is significantly reduced or even eliminated. It involves shifting from a take-make-waste society to one where repairing, reusing and repurposing become standard. When a new phrase or concept is introduced to capture a vision of a better world, industrial interests often co-opt it, attempting to portray themselves as “green.” That’s what the Forestry Products Association of Canada is doing in its response to a report calling into question the vast amounts of boreal forest pulped for toilet paper. The

Roads and landings where timber is piled and collected can leave permanent, cumulative scars. Trees are harvested before reaching old growth stages, which disrupts provision of habitat and forest nutrient cycles. As industry favours economical tree species, natural forest composition is altered. These practices lead to forest degradation and diminished ecosystem functioning. Industrial disturbance is also a main driver of the decline of boreal woodland caribou, which are threatened with extinction in Canada. Caribou are an umbrella species that depend on unfragmented forests. In essence, a circular economy is about ensuring that we live within Earth’s finite limits — the limits within which today’s needs can be met without sacrificing the ability of future generations, including future generations of wildlife, to have their needs met. Caribou decline is an indicator that ecological limits have been surpassed. In 2012, the federal government directed provinces to limit the amount of forest disturbance in boreal caribou ranges to a maximum of 35 per cent, which would give caribou a mere 60 per cent chance of survival. With few exceptions, forestry operators and provinces have ignored this directive, and caribou populations continue to drop in Canada’s boreal forest.

What needs to change so that Canada’s industrial resource extraction activities can truly be part of a circular economy? First, limits must be set on the boundaries of industrial activities. Cutting down forests that have never been logged to produce more toilet paper, packaging and other paper products we barely recycle can never be circular, let alone sustainable. The ever-increasing expansion into unfragmented forests must be curtailed. Governments and industry must renew efforts to protect suitable habitat for imperilled wildlife, restore forests where levels of disturbance have driven wildlife decline and find innovative ways to harvest in areas that have already been cut. Canada is the world’s largest producer of newsprint and northern bleached softwood kraft pulp, a raw material for making paper products. A 2020 draft forest sector strategy for Ontario projects a 35 per cent increase in tissue production and a 25 per cent increase in packaging. The life cycle of forest-based products must be rethought, redesigned and transformed.

We must also redefine the core purpose of our forestry sector from one driven by how quickly it can cut down forests for profit to one that rewards operators for cutting less and producing better products. A true circular economy grows qualities (such as healthy, diverse forests) over time without the need to keep growing quantities (such as number of trees logged) — better, not more. It doesn’t make sense to destroy much-needed habitat for singleuse products such as toilet paper when recycled toilet paper and other alternatives can meet our needs. Consumers and producers need to rethink products and packaging. Canada’s logging industry might use wood chips and circular saws, but it can’t be considered part of a circular economy until it transforms itself with circular principles at its core. Written with contributions from David Suzuki Foundation Boreal Project Manager Rachel Plotkin.  Learn more at davidsuzuki.org.

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

Aries (March 21-April 19) This month you will work harder than ever to accomplish what you want to get done. In the month ahead, not only do you want to work hard you want to work smarter. In other words, you want to get better organized in every aspect of your life. Your focus will be on efficiency and effectiveness, and you will strive to make every action count. Because you’re setting the bar so high, you want to improve your health as well! “I want it all!” Taurus (April 20-May 20) You’ll be going gangbusters this month The Sun will make you want the freedom to express yourself and do your own thing. This is why you will focus on amusing diversions and recreational pursuits! You will be freespirited and your relationships will feel lighter than usual. Relations with children will improve. Romance will be fun and pleasurable. You will be attracted to reading, writing, playing games and doing puzzles. You won’t feel you have to justify whatever you do with a practical reason. Gemini (May 21-June 20) You want to hide and cocoon this month. You’ll feel happy in familiar surroundings. You will enjoy private time for contemplation. Many of you will be reminded of past memories from your youth. In fact, you might find it reassuring to talk to a counsellor or good friend at this time because you will tend to want to do some psychological self-evaluation. Family discussions and a focus on home repairs will also be likely. Cancer (June 21-July 22) This month your daily pace will accelerate with short trips, appointments, errands plus

increased reading, writing and studying are on the menu. You’ll be dancing as fast as you can! Expect increased involvement with group discussions and conversations with others. Venus is in your sign now, which makes you charming and diplomatic with everyone you meet. Meanwhile, Mars at the top of your chart revs your ambition and makes you bold! Leo (July 23-Aug. 22) This is the perfect month to reflect upon your values. Curious how we often do not take the time to define what matters most to us? It’s important to know what matters most because then you know how to make the correct decisions. You also know what to encourage in your life and what to discourage. You might want to take a critical look at what you own and get rid of what you no longer need. Get rid of it! Virgo (Aug. 23-Sept. 22) Dear Virgo, the Sun is in your sign now, which gives you a major boost! Plus, it attracts people and favourable situations to you. Mercury is also in your sign for the next few weeks, which is why you’re chatty and eager to share your ideas with others. Mercury excites your mind, making it jump even faster from issue to issue. Don’t get carried away. Stay calm. Get out and travel. It’s all about you! Libra (Sept. 23-Oct. 22) Your personal year is drawing to an end. Therefore, use this

month to ponder important questions. For example, what do you want for your new year ahead? I suggest that you define some goals because goals help you achieve what you want. They focus your mind and they make future decision-making easier. Goals also give you a sense of purpose. They clarify things and keep you on track. Relations with bosses and authority figures are excellent now. In fact, some of you might even begin a flirtation or a romance with a boss. Scorpio (Oct. 23-Nov. 21) This month you will be more popular! You will also be more involved in clubs, groups and organizations. Many of you will hang out with younger people more than usual. Note: It’s important to know that you will benefit from interreacting with others. Therefore, friendly! Reach out. Engage with others. Not only will you enjoy their company, you will learn something and also benefit from new contacts and introductions. Grab every chance to travel for pleasure because this will delight you. Sagittarius (Nov. 22-Dec. 21) Ta da! This month, the Sun is at 12 o’clock high in your chart, which symbolizes that you are in a flattering limelight! Others will admire you, especially bosses, parents and teachers -- and you don’t have to do anything special! (It’s smoke and mirrors.) Obviously, this is the time to make your move. Ask for approval or permission. Doors will open for you. Venus will

attract money to you from financial institutions or your partner. Ah yes, it’s your year to get richer! Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan. 19) Expect chances to travel or to expand your horizons this month. You also might get further training or education or be able to explore new avenues in publishing, the media, medicine, the law and higher education. Relations with everyone will be smooth because with Venus opposite your sign, you find it easy to create a proper balance between yourself and others. You will also find it easy to express your affection for others. If you are in conflict with someone, you can make the peace. Nice! Aquarius (Jan. 20-Feb. 18) In a curious way, your feelings will become more intense and passionate this month. This increased intensity will apply to a wide range of your emotional spectrum – anger, love, joy, fear, laughter and romance. Your desire to improve yourself might be stronger than usual, as well. Certainly, you are more willing to take a deeper look at who you are. In fact, some of you will do some soul-searching. Others might feel that their value structure is challenged. Pisces (Feb. 19-March 20) This month the Sun is opposite your sign, which will draw your attention to partners, spouses and close friends. Because of this polarized position, you will have more objectivity, which will allow you to view your own style of relating with t more honesty. Obviously, this offers you an excellent chance to learn more about how you relate to others, hence, how you might improve. Romance will flourish and be playful, lighthearted and fun! Likewise, relations with kids will be positive. www.georgianicols.com

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STOP OLD GROWTH LOGGING NOW 71

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September 2020 Issue 142

Articles inside

September Forecasts

Exploring Ancient Percussive Sounds

What Were You Wearing?

Lightening The Plastic Burden

I’ll Have What She’s Having

Evergreen Independent School

Lila Music Centre This Fall

Fruit Save Looking For Volunteers

Think Rustic Cooking For Fall

Queen of Angels Catholic School

Spicy noodles are the love of my life

Wine Glasses Demystified

Sunrise Waldorf School

Resonance of the Human Ear Canal