VV August 2017 Issue 105 by Cowichan Valley Voice

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AUGUST 2017 ISSUE 105 WATER CONSERVATION I SALMON & WINE I LOCAL ARTS I COBBLE HILL FAIR

August 2017 Issue 105 Published by Cowichan Valley Voice Magazine Publisher Richard Badman Editor Sheila Badman Contact us at: editor@cowichanvalleyvoice.com or by phone at 250 746 931 Visit us online at www.cowichanvalleyvoice.com Distribution Erin Collins

Event Calendar Nejma Belarbi

For Print ads please contact Adrienne Richards 250 510 6596 e-mail adrienne@cowichanvalleyvoice. com Next Ad Deadline August 18 for S eptemberIssue 106 *Non Profit Community Ad Rates available please enquire. For free community events listings please email us at: events@cowichanvalleyvoice.com Events format: Date, Time, Location, Event Title and Cost Next DEADLINE August15 for September 2017 Issue 106 Cowichan Valley Voice Magazine reserves the right to omit and/or edit submitted listings due to space limitations Special thanks to following Valley Voices: Bill Jones, Pam Stiles, Amanda Munsell, Chris Jones and Elizabeth Bailey, Jessica Schacht, Chris Manley, Veronica Scott, Dr. Goetz Schuerholz, Tamu Miles, David Slade, George Robbins, George Baird, Zoe Norcross-Nu’u, Diana Durrand, Christy Greenwood, David Coulson, Faye Stefan, Amanda Griesbach, Nancy Hamilton, Marty, Beth Lischeron, Nancy Hamilton, Georgia Newsome, HeatherLauzon, Tracey Hanson, Debbie Wood, Michelle Atterby, Franya Jedwab, Gill Polard, Emily Doyle-Yamaguchi, Genevieve Singleton, Diane Barr, Sonia Furstenau,Nicolette Genier and The Wonderful Staff at The Community Farm Store and The Lovely Georgia Nicols welcome your story ideas & photo submissions, however Cowichan We 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: Tamu Miles. A view of beautiful Cowichan Lake as seen from a lookout point near Caycuse Reach Tamu by email at: tamumiles@gmail.com. Or check out her website: www.navigatingthestars.wordpress.com

HELP GET READERS READY FOR BACK TO SCHOOL & BACK TO WORK with SEPTEMBER ad Specials Contact Adrienne Richards

250 510 6596

adrienne@cowichanvalleyvoice.com

OUR COMMUNITY August Events 6-7 Summertime Sundays in Downtown Duncan 26 CERCA’s Fifth Anniversary Park Celebration 32 Upper River Cleanup 34 Cowichan Lake 35 Lower River Cleanup 37 Memories of The Cobble Hill Fair 40 Fresh & Fun Cowichan Summer Markets 44 Air Conditioners and Humidity 56 Truth and Reconciliation 64 Tractors honour Russell Stewart 68 Sonia Furstenau 68 Directory of Local Services 70-71 LOCAL FOOD & DRINK Cittaslow Cowichan Dinner in White 8 West Coast Salmon 9 Local Summer Pairings with Wild Salmon 10 Buying Bulk at Wholesale Prices 12 Craft Beer & Food Festival in Chemainus 15 Blackberry Bounty 16 Successful Summer Cleansing 18 Mad Dog Crabs Seafood Market 29 History Glass: Gin & Tonic 31 FARM & GARDEN Battle of the Blackberries 17 Lenora Hive Share: Month Four Notes from the Hive 21 Xeriscaping - Water Wise Gardening 38 oneTree Wild Workshop 43 Sharing Your Solar Story 46 Designing Green: Let There Be Light 47 LOCAL ARTS Island Rockabilly Jamboree 22 Cowichan Valley Shakespeare Festival 22 McMono by Diana Durrand 27 Jennifer Lawson Featured Artist at Imagine That! 28 Atmosphere 30 Ladysmith Is About To Get A Creative Block 33 Talley’s Folly,’ at The Chemainus Theatre Festival 42 The Lion, The Witch & The Wardrobe 49 CHILDREN & FAMILY How Exploring And Being Active In The Outdoors Benefits Teenagers 48 Benefits of Prenatal Yoga 61 BODY, MIND & SOUL NASA Scientist Peter Kalmus Book Signing Event 23 A Dream Come True 24 Pillow Talk: Body Pillows 25 Sustainability And You (and me too) 36 Overcoming Social Anxiety: There is Hope! 50 Living on the Wild Side 51 Pace of Change, Change of Pace 52 Think Like A Squirrel 57 The Sounds of Silence 60 Sativas vs Indicas; Whats the Difference? 62 4 Day Yoga Intensive with Lilian Bianchi 63 Freeing Yourself With Past Regression 65 August Horoscopes 69 PETS, RECREATION & NATURE Ocean Fun For Everyone at Mill Bay Marina 20 A Magical Moonlight Paddle in Maple Bay 54 Nitinat Lake -a hidden paradise! 55 Lucky Dogs...How to wash a dog…58 What do Horses and Kids have in Common? 59 Nature Rambles 66

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

VINOTECA AT ZANATTA

Watercolours by Jennifer Lawson Paintings on Slate by Patricia Mansell Imagine That! 251 Craig St. runs to 08/25 The Lion, The Witch & The Wardrobe Chemainus Theater 1-800-565-7738 runs to 08/13 F in de Fiesta Music in Chemainus 7pm Whaterwheel Park

McMonos Mixed Media Show by Diana Durrand Excellent Frameworks 28 Station St. runs to 08/31

Join us for Lunch Wed - Sun. Dinner on the Weekends. Brunch on Sundays. Event Shuttle Available through

vinoteca.ca

5039 Marshall Rd, Duncan I 250 709 2279

Cowichan Valley Shakespeare Festival Macbeth Gem o’ the Isle Farm, 2465 Koksilah Rd 7:30 pm, also

08/3/5/6/9/11/12 Matinee 08/13 2pm $25/$40/Family$60/$80

Music in The Park in Cobble Hill, Lo Waight & the Rattlesnakes 6:30pm Family friendly Cobble Hill Village Commons By donation

Cowichan Valley Shakespeare Festival A Midsummer Night’s Dream Gem o’ the Isle Farm, 2465 Koksilah Rd 7:30 pm also 08/8/10 matinee 08/6 2pm $25/$40/Family$60/$80

- 31, POG- Printmakers Only Group- 26th Annual Art Show and Sale, 10:00 am - 5:00 pm, PORTALS Island Savings Centre FREE

Music in The Park Cobble Hill, Sean Baker 6:30pm Family friendly Cobble Hill Village Commons By donation

McMonos Mixed Media Show by Diana Durrand, Art afternon 1 - 3pm. Excellent Frameworks 28 Station St.

Africa Under The Stars Zimbabwean musicians 8pm O.U.R. Ecovillage Baldy Mtn. Rd, Tickets: $15 adv/(Community Farm Store) $20 <12 free

Cowichan Craft Beer and Food Festival 1-5pm Artisan village Expo Grounds 2952 Elm St Chemainus www. cowichanbeerfest.com $19.99

Jazz Saxophonist P.J.Perry 2-5pm Crofton Pub 1534 Joan Ave. 250-324-2245 $20 adv/$25

Salmon Magic Cooking Class with Chef Bill Jones Noon-4pm Deerholme Farm 250.748.7450

Jazzy Tea Sundays Live jazz in the garden w/tea+sweet pairing. Reservations recommended 250.748.3811 www.teafarm.ca also 08/13/20/27

Raven Goes Berrypicking: Summer Reading Club Puppet Show 2-2:30pm Cowichan Lake Library 68 Renfrew Ave FREE

Auction Sunday 1pm La Petite Auction House 9686 Chemainus Rd 250 701-2902 Viewings Wed - Sat Cowichan Estuary Restoration and Conservation Association Celebration, family/pet friendly, Ukululu Band, refreshments, cake 2-4pm Maple Grove Park - opposite the lawn tennis courts on Cowichan Bay Rd FREE

Island Rockabilly Jamboree Paul Pigat & Cousin Harley 7pm Music in Chemainus Whaterwheel Park

12&13

Dragonfly Dreaming Organics Pop-Up Garden Party 10 -2 pm, 3616 Garland Ave, Cobble Hill Village dragonflydreaming.com

Sweet Alibi Live 7:30pm Providence Farm Chapel 1843 Tzouhalem Rd. $22 door/adv $20

6th Annual Cittaslow Dinner in White 5PM Location will be revealed Aug 13 cittaslowcowichan.org

Chemainus Accordion Day Nine 11am-4:30pm Whaterwheel Park

Tien Tai Retreat 4-3904 Johnny Bear Rd. Nichiren Buddha Center www. VIRetreats.com runs to 08/12

Chemainus Music in The Park Citizen Jane 7-9pm Whaterwheel Park Chemainus

Shawnigan Lake Heritage Fair and Family Picnic, 10:30am-2:30pm, Elsie Miles Community Park, Free, www. shawniganlakemuseum.com

For full design/build service, give us a call

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

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

‘Meet & Collaborate’ with artist Zach Hoskin in Predictable Motion exhibition.11-4pm Ou Gallery 3091 Agira Rd. FREE

Surf and Garden Dinner w/Chef Bill Jones 5-9pm Deerholme Farm Reservations 250.748.7450

Bobby Dove Live 7pm Providence Farm Chapel 1843 Tzouhalem Rd. $18 - adv $15

Beats and Blackberry 9-12pm Somenos Open Air Classroom www. Somenosmarsh.com FREE

Ghostly Hounds, witch-folk trio from Montreal 8pm Duncan Showroom 131 Station St. $15

Yoga Intensive with Lilian Bianchi 9am-12pm Namaste Yoga Studio 250 7460327 $147runs to 08/17

14-18

Boat Building Summer Camp 10-14 yrs 9-2:30pm Cowichan Bay Maritime 250-746-4955 $189 plus GST

Chemainus Music in The Park A Cappella Plus7pm Whaterwheel ParkChemainus Cowichan Valley Green Drinks 5-7pm Craig St Brewpub 3rd Floor (BYOB) FREE

Talley’s Folly Opens ChemainusTheatre chemainustheatrefestival.ca. r uns to 08/25 1-800-565-7738

Auction Sunday 1pm La Petite Auction House 9686 Chemainus Rd 250 701-2902 Pacific Edge Chorus Wine, Women and Wheels BBQ, wine tasting, show and shine, 1-4 pm Enrico Winery 3280 Telegraph Rd $15

For the Love of Upcycling Workshop Series: Grandparents and Grandkids Upcycling Art Project 9:30am1:30pm 360 Duncan St.250 748 8506

Rakkatak tabla masters from Toronto 8pm Duncan Showroom 131 Station St. $20

Kimchi w/Renee, recipe and take home jar 1-2:30pm Scoops Natural Foods Whippletree Junction. Register778-422-3310 also 08/29 5:307pm $20

Chemainus Music in The Park Mark Crissinger Band7pm Whaterwheel Park Chemainus

Entangados Spanish ska inferno dance nite 8pm Duncan Showroom 131 Station St. $20 Music in The Park in Cobble Hill, Boomshack Band 6:30pm Family friendly Cobble Hill Village Commons By donation Peter Kalmu-Being the Change: How to Live Well and Spark a Climate Revolution 7-9pm Community Farm Store 5380 Trans-Canada Hwy, Drinks & snacks provided FREE

The Steadies island reggae-rock master Earle Pereira returns 8pm Duncan Showroom 131 Station St. $20

Cowichan Lake and River Stewardship Society’s 8th Annual River Clean Up 9am1pm Central Park Lake Cowichan FREE Qristina and Quinn Bachand concert 7:30pm Shady Grove @ the Sussmans Mill Bay 250-9298226 $20 Chemainus Jazz FestivalModern Jazz Saturday and Traditional Jazz Sunday Whaterwheel Park runs to 08/20

Dirty Mountain, Cobble Hill Music In The Park 6:30pm Cobble Hill Village Commons Masala Sauce w/Pam 5:307pm Scoops Natural Foods Whippletree Junction. Register778 422 3310 also 08/30 5:307pm $20

Music in The Park in Cobble Hill, Dirty Mountain 6:30pm Family friendly Cobble Hill Village Commons By donation Lentil Dahl w/Pam 5:30-7pm Scoops Whippletree Junction Register 778-422-3310 $20

HUB FilmClub Movie Night “La La Land” PG 7pm Cowichan Station 2375 Koksilah Rd Adm w/members or donation hubfilmclub@gmail. com

108th Cobble Hill Fair Celebrating Pancake breakfast, hall exhibits, 4-H and more family fun for everyone 7am -5pm www.cobblehillfair.ca

The Bad, Steve Bick, Bayside Locals, and Richard Inman 4pm Providence Farm 1843 Tzouhalem Rd. FREE

COBBLE HILL VILLAGE COMMONS

Light Up The Night 6:30pm - 10pm Ladysmith no dogs or pets please www. artsontheavenue.ca

26-27

One Tree Wild Workshop includes materials & Sat supper camping 2507480763 $375

Lower Cowichan River Clean-up register 10am Little Big House (end of River Road) Cowichan Tribes FREE Artts On The Avenue 10-4pm Ladysmith no dogs or pets please artsontheavenue.ca

Chemainus Music in The Park Flint & Feather 7pm Whaterwheel Park Chemainus

EVERY THURSDAY NIGHT 6:30 - 8PM August 3

LO WAIGHT & THE RATTLESNAKES August 10

SEAN BAKER August 17

BOOMSHACK BAND August 23 DIRTY MOUNTAIN August 31

JON MIDDLETON

Music in The Park in Cobble Hill, Jon Middleton 6:30pm Family friendly Cobble Hill Village Commons By donation

Out of Town 18-20 Atmosphere Gathering Music Festival in Cumberland atmospheregathering. com

EVERY SUNDAY 10am-3pm Events brought to you by

La Petite Auction House Auction Sunday AUGUst 6 & 20 • 1pm

Accepting goods throughout the week

Viewings

WEDNESDAY-FRIDAY 11am- 5pm SATURDAY 1-4pm SAME DAY viewings 10am-1pm To consign email dawngeddie@gmail.com

9686 Chemainus Rd, 250-701-2902

ver a decade ago, Cowichan Bay became the first North American community to receive the Cittaslow designation. We joined because we want to ensure that the qualities that made us “Cittaslow” remain: qualities like the authenticity of products and good food, the richness of craft traditions, the diversity of cultures, the community spirit found in town squares, shops, cafés, restaurants, places of the spirit and unspoiled landscapes. The designation doesn’t make us “cittaslow”; life here in Cowichan Bay, and arguably, throughout the Cowichan Valley, already reflects many Cittaslow ideals. But receiving that designation is an affirmation that we want to keep walking in the right direction. Today, Cittaslow is a network of towns and villages in over 28 countries including Australia, Belgium, Denmark, Finland, Germany, Iceland, Netherlands, Portugal, Sweden, Switzerland, Turkey, Great Britain and many

more. Originating as an offshoot organization to complement the Slow Food Movement founded in Italy, Cittaslow was born in 1999. It is based on the philosophy that a better world starts in one’s own community. An idea that a community itself can think and act differently about improving the quality of the lives of its people. Throughout the ages, there have been cultures and customs based on this idea. First Nations within Canada have lived “Cittaslow” for thousands of years. The early pioneer farming families in Canada also lived by much of this philosophy. Share Your Local Food Stories Cittaslow Cowichan likes to hear your stories about our beautiful area, you can do this in a variety of formats. Just write your story and mail it to us, or email your story. You can also tell your story in a short video or just audio tape your story. Stories accepted in all formats. The goal is to collect stories of Cowichan, our culture, heritage, or maybe a fairy tale. Contest runs to 2018.

White Dinner

The Cittaslow Dinner in White Dinner in White Coming up is our sixth annual Dinner in White with a few changes. We will more or less organize it like the real white dinners that are held all over the world. Never attended a white dinner? Here’s how it works. You bring your own food plus something to share. A lot of white dinners are very fancy affairs, but ours is a real community event. Tables are set with white

linen and chairs and all you need to do is show up in your favourite white outfit, with some food to share, plates and cutlery to eat with and some friendly community vibes. Location to be announced. Check out our website or facebook page the morning of August 13 as the location will be kept secret until 24 hours before the event. See you there! www.cittaslowcowichan.org

6th Annual Cittaslow Dinner in White

August 13, 2017, 5PM

Cittaslow Cowichan

Bring your own food and drinks with local ingredients and something to share. Bring your own plate and cutlery. We take care of the tables, chairs and white table cloth. Dress in white. *We won’t be selling protein or drinks.

Location will be revealed on August 13, via our website and social media.

www.cittaslowcowichan.org 88

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

river ecosystems. Salmon Types There are five types of wild Pacific salmon available. All are delicious!

Image Bill Jones

Chinook (Oncorhynchus tshawytscha) At the top of the heap for many fishermen and chefs, the salmon is a large (up to 120 lbs.) fish, with a deep blue-green spotted back. The Chinook is also known as the Spring or King salmon. The flesh is somewhat variable in colour, some have a white, ivoryhued flesh that is wonderful for smoking (sometimes called the White King salmon). Other Chinook have a deep red colour that is heavily laden with fat. It is the best all-round salmon for every cooking technique.

West Coast Salmon

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

almon have been an important part of the local food scene for more than 10,000 years. It sustained the local First Nations and created wealth and prosperity for generations. On the island it is one of our joys, the ability to go around the coast of the island and catch the various species of wild salmon is something many of us love to do. Wild salmon is rich in nutrients and fats, salmon is an excellent source of omega-3 fatty acids. Much research has pointed to the omega-3 as a super-food, capable of profound benefits to our heart and nervous system. The best quality fish are caught using a line and hook and are immediately processed and handled to ensure maximum quality. Fish caught in the ocean (or near the mouth of the big rivers) have the highest fat content and the fish are in the best shape. As the salmon migrate upstream, they feed off their bodies resources and begin to deteriorate from the harsh journey through the fresh water systems. Salmon strive to return to the streams and gravel beds of their birth and are often tattered and spent as they finally spawn, dying shortly after. In nature nothing is wasted and the salmon carcasses are important food for a host of wildlife, including bears and eagles, and provide vital nutrients for the

Sockeye (Oncorhynchus nerka) Sockeye is prized for its firm, deep, red-orange flesh. The sockeye is a smaller salmon, weighing up to 7 lbs. with a well-oiled and flavourful flesh. The skin of the sockeye is a bluetinged silver in colour and the body has a slim and streamlined appearance. It is an excellent all-purpose salmon an renown as the best salmon for cold-smoking and gravlox. Coho (Oncorhynchus kisutch) Another highly sought fish by sport-fishermen and legendary for their ability to leap. The coho can grow up to 15 lbs., and sport a bright silver skin colour. The flesh has a fine red colour, full flavour and is suitable for all cooking methods. Chum (Oncorhynchus keta) The chum, also known as keta or dog salmon, are an abundant species. They have a similar appearance to the sockeye salmon with a silvery side with black specks and faint grid-like bars. Chum range up to 10 lbs. in size. The flavour is milder that the prime salmon species and has a pink to medium red flesh. The flesh is excellent when hot smoked or candied and is a good choice for pan-frying.

Japanese style Planked Salmon Bill Jones, Deerholme Farm (Serves 4)

Cedar plank 1 side salmon 1 small 4 Tbsp 1 Tbsp 1 tsp 1 tsp 1 tsp 1 tsp 1/2 tsp

(I use 1”x6”x 12” pieces of wood) (sockeye or spring are my favourites) onion, finely minced mayonnaise pickled ginger mirin rice wine vinegar soy sauce hot sauce (or wasabi paste) sesame oil Sesame seeds for garnish Nori seaweed for garnish salt and pepper to taste

Prepare a plank of cedar by washing and placing in a tub of water to soak for at least 2 hours. In a small bowl, mix the onion, mayonnaise, ginger, mirin, vinegar, soy sauce, hot sauce and sesame oil. On a cedar plank, place the salmon skin side down, Cut into the salmon across the width, down to almost the skin. Spread the sauce over the salmon and allow to penetrate the cuts of the salmon. Place on the soaked cedar plank and place on a hot BBQ. Close the lid and cook for about 8-10 minutes. Lift lid and check doneness. You want the salmon to be moist and just starting to flake under light pressure. Remove from heat and allow to sit for a few minutes before serving. Serve with rice and steamed or sautéed vegetables.

Pink (Oncorhynchus gorbushca) The pink salmon live an average of two years and are the smallest and most plentiful of the pacific salmon species, weighing up to 5 lbs. When caught in the ocean, they are sometimes marketed as silverbright, and have a delicate flavour with a pale pink flesh.

The fish is somewhat mild when compared to other salmon but has a delicate and pleasing texture. It is better suited to dry heat cooking such as pan-frying and roasting. Salmon Magic Cooking Class with Bill Jones August 12, Noon-4pm www.deerholme.com

Expecting guests this summer? With 22 Bed and Breakfasts to choose from (over 70 rooms), for all tastes, styles, budgets and locations, we are a better way to stay.

www.staycowichan.com

Serving Crofton, Chemainus, Lake Cowichan, Duncan, Cowichan Bay, Cobble Hill, Mill Bay and Shawnigan.

namelled Note Block and Bude Vase with hickadees by Margot Page

2016 Rose Averill Creek Vineyard Our 2016 Rosé is also an excellent and versatile choice. A blend of our estate grown Pinot Noir and Merlot, the wine is aromatic with notes of rose petal, melon, strawberries and cream, featuring smooth vanilla and ripe red berry flavours. Enjoy chilled, alongside salmon a number of ways: baked or grilled, smoked or candied, salmon cakes or salads. $16

2016 PinotGris Alderlea Vineyards Low yields and meticulous vineyard practices produce a Pinot Gris with fuller body and a longer finish than most Pinot Gris. Alderlea’s signature skincontact winemaking style results in a dry, rose-coloured wine, showing aromas of peach, and apricot, with a balanced mouthfeel and flavours of tangerine, orange and mango. This wine pairs especially well with fish and seafood dishes and the fuller body makes it an excellent choice with grilled salmon. $21.26

local summer pairings 2016 PinotGris Rocky Creek Winery Intense colour from a super harvest after overnight skin contact. “Orange is the new white” is our take on this modern Pinot Gris. Tasting notes of citrus, granny smith and pear. Full and smooth on the palate with loads of fruit flavours that continue through a long, tangy citrus finish. A great pairing with the meatiness of the salmon. $20

2015 Pinot Noir Unsworth Vineyards Wonderful company and fresh West Coast salmon on the grill call out for our Unsworth 2015 Pinot Noir. Bright cherry, blackberry notes and subtle spice combine perfectly with grilled salmon on a warm August evening. $26.87

2014 Pinot Gris Cherry Point Estate Wines Pale yellow with a lovely citrus fruit and spicy bouquet, pink grapefruit notes in the palate. This wine offers a wonderfully aromatic finish with a slight sweet touch. Delightful with poached salmon or pasta primavera with crisp Parmigiano-Reggiano shavings.

Sweet Leaf IPA Red Arrow Brewing Company Salmon, a west coast delicacy is rich, oily, with a lingering savoury character matching well with our Sweet Leaf India Pale Ale. We all know Salmon no matter how it is prepared has a strong flavour that will pair well with the strong hop linger of our IPA. Our Sweet Leaf has a balance that lacks in some IPA’s making it a great BBQ or Patio beer.

with wild salmon

Our Quill Pinot Noir 2015 Quill Pinot Noir Blue Grouse Estate Winery has aromas of cherry,

eucalyptus and pine on the nose; whose flavours show through on the palate mixed with black plum and a light oakiness. The wine is juicy like a fresh cherry pie, with fine tannins. Our Pinot Noir is the ideal pairing with salmon because of its bright acidity, complexity, and rich fruit character. Try the salmon planked on the BBQ for this pairing. $24

Rosato Zanatta Winery

Here is something new for Zanatta Winery. Our first still Rosé which we call Rosato in celebration of our Italian roots! It is in very limited production but pairs fantastically with our local Salmon. It is a little drier than many Rosés, with a supple and delicious body. It is made in the Saignée method using Pinot Nero grapes exclusively. Strawberry on the nose, and blueberry and salmon berry on the palate. Great wine to accompany Salmon, but also great with sushi or on its own.

2015 Siegerrebe Gewürztraminer Emandare Vineyard Light, fresh, crisp and clean aromas of fresh wild flowers and wild herbs perk your senses as just before the refreshing citrus acidity dances across your palate. The wines of an area, always pair perfectly with the cuisine of the area, just as this deliciously juicy wine will pair perfectly with your favourite local sea food like salmon marinated in lemon, dill and garlic fresh off the BBQ. $23

Eat, Drink and Support Local

Gift Baskets Gift Certificates Meat & Cheese Platters Cocktail Supplies Gourmet Foods

Buying Bulk at Wholesale Prices

locally grown, organic and delicious

Ol’ MacDonald Farm SUMMER PICKins’ Cherry tomatoes, basil, beets, cucumbers, peppers, carrots, garlic, salad greens, Happy free range eggs and much more. and Mila’s beautiful FLOWERS Visit our booth at the Saturday Market on Ingram St

whether through local stores or buying co-ops, allows consumers to buy well sourced or organic staples at a lower cost per unit of measure. So, how do you put a bulk food plan together that works for you? Firstly, what are the staples that your family uses? Do you have storage space for large containers of food? Do you have other family members or friends who would split purchases with you?

ncreasingly, shoppers are seeing the value of buying staple pantry items in bulk. These large quantity purchases come with an initial ‘pinch’ to their bank accounts but frees them up to purchase higher quality fresh items such as fruit and vegetables, dairy and meat during other shopping trips. Buying at wholesale pricing,

Store what you eat! Eat what you store! When planning what to purchase, consider what stores the best. Dried products such as grains, beans, rice, lentils, sugar and

ANNUAL WHOLESALE FOOD & GRAIN ORDER Over 100 bulk grains, beans, dried fruit, nuts, seeds, baking ingredients and spices at wholesale pricing! Complete list & pricing will be available in store and online on Tuesday, August 8th. Please refer to list for order and payment deadline, as well as pick up dates. Sample of bulk order items available for order. Many more items including spices and baking ingredients • Org. Hard White Wheat 20 Kg (BC) • Org. Red Fife Wheat (Heritage) 20Kg (BC) • Org. Rye 20 kg (BC) • Org. Hulled barley 20Kg (BC) • Org. Soft Wheat 20 Kg (BC) • Org. Kamut 20 Kg (BC) • Org. Spelt 20 Kg (BC) • Org. Quinoa 11.34 kg. (Peru/Bolivia) • Org. Buckwheat Hulled Raw 22.7 Kg (CDN) • Org. Hulled Oats 22.7kg. (BC) • Org. Rolled Oats, lg. ﬂake, 11.34 kg. (CDN)

• Org. Quick Oats, 11.34 kg. (CDN) • Org. Gluten Free Rolled Oats 11.34kg (US) • Org. Popcorn 11.34 kg. (US) • Org. Hulled Millet 11.37 kg. (US) • Org. Long Brown Rice 11.34 Kg • Org. Short Brown Rice 11.34 Kg • Org. Basmati Brown Rice 11.34 kg. • Org. Basmati White Rice 11.34 kg. • Org. Pinto beans, 11.34 kg. (US) • Org. Black Bean 11.34 kg. (Paraguay) • Org. Chick Peas 11.34 kg. (US) • Org. White Navy Beans, 11.34 kg. (USA)

• Org. Green Lentils, 11.34 kg. (CDN) • Org. Red Lentils 11.34 kg (TKY) • Org. Green Split Peas, 11.34 kg. (CDN) • Org. Brown Flax 22.7 kg. (CDN) • Org. Brown ﬂax 5kg. (CDN) • Org. Sunﬂower, raw hulled, 11.34 kg. (US) • Org. Hemp Seeds Hulled 5kg (CDN) • Org. Almonds, Natural 11.34 kg. (US) • Org. Cashews 11.34 (Turkey) • Org. Shredded Coconut 5kg (PH) • Org. Unbleached White Flour 9 kg • Org. Brown Rice Flour 11.34 kg • Org. Cane Sugar 5kg

• Org. Thompson Raisins 13.61 kg • Org. Turkish Sultanas, 12.7 kg. • Org. Medjool Dates 5kg • Nutritional Yeast, Red Star 2.27kg • Himalayan Crystal Salt - Fine 5kg • Dried Cranberries 4.54 kg. • Iranian Pitted dates 10 kg • Jumbo Chilean Thompson raisins, 13 kg. • Honey, Pasturized, 33 lb. • Honey, Unpasturized clover, 44lbs • Molasses 5 Kg, Black Strap • Chocolate chips, pure, 3 kg • Callebault choc. dark-2.5kg • Callebault choc. milk- 2.5kg

AUGUST COOKING CLASS SCHEDULE • PLEASE REGISTER 24 HOURS IN ADVANCE 778-422-3310 KIMCHI TUESDAY WITH RENEE - $45 Aug. 22nd 1 – 2.30pm /Aug. 29th 5.30- 7pm. Learn about fermented foods and probiotic -rich Kimchi. Take home a jar!

MASALA SAUCE WITH PAM - $20 Wed. Aug. 23 & 30 5.30 – 7pm Learn how to make a large batch of this popular Indian Curry Sauce.

LENTIL DAHL WITH PAM - $20 Thurs. Aug. 24th 5.30 – 7pm You’ve tried it at the store, now let Pam show you how to make this delicious staple at home.

www.scoopsnaturalfoods.com

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

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A great way to ensure you get through your bulk food supply is to plan your weekly meals around the items you have in storage. Remember, these are your staple items and you should shop for ingredients that will ensure you get the best use from them.

salt can be stored indefinitely when kept under dry and cool conditions. Unlike fresher products, like meat, dairy or produce – they do not need to be refrigerated or frozen. What are the most versatile products your family consumes? For example, grain is a great staple for food storage, it can be milled into flour, sprouted or used for wheatgrass, boiled as a substitute for rice or cracked and flaked for cereal. This is a critical time to review your food consumption habits, how do you prepare food in your pantry to ensure minimal waste? Storing Bulk Foods Consider your in-home storage space. Bulk foods store best in cool and dry conditions, a cold garage is a perfect spot. Air tight buckets are a great storage option, they don’t take up very much space and stack very well. If you have or have access to a vacuum sealer, this can be a perfect way to store your food and eliminate the risk of oxidization. Sharing Bulk Splitting products with family members and friends means you can extend your purchase options to items like spices, specialty salts and treats such as chocolate and dried fruits. It also gives you access to the more expensive grains and nuts, which can be cost prohibitive in large quantities.

History of the Annual Wholesale Order Program Here at Scoops Natural Foods we are embarking on our 9th Annual Wholesale Food and Grain Order. Our parents John and Carol began offering this large order service over 30 years ago when they first started selling grain mills. At the time they discovered that there was no reliable local source for organic Canadian grain for this growing base of home millers. As the years went by, customers started requesting other staples such as beans, rice and baking ingredients. So, it didn’t take long until a comprehensive list of over 100 items was developed. In the late 2000’s Cam and Pam took over the administration and distribution of the Wholesale Food and Grain Order program and added bulk spices ordering for their customers last year. Much anticipated the 2017 list will be available Tuesday, August 8, both in store and online. If you don’t see what you are looking for on the list, let us know and we will try to get it in at the best price for you! www.scoopsnaturalfoods.com Whippletree Junction, Duncan

Pam Stiles is the owner of Scoops Natural Foods at Whippletree Junction. 778-422-3310

Upcoming EVENTS August 12 I Noon -4pm Salmon Magic Cooking Class August 19 I 5pm-9pm Surf and Garden Dinner August 29 I Noon -4pm Modern Vegetable Cooking Class

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

4830 Stelfox Rd, Duncan

For ReservationS 250 748 7450 13

Wood-Fired Pizzeria Prima Strada Now Open in Cobble Hill

he Cowichan Valley has a new pizzeria in town! Pizzeria Prima Strada is sure to be your new favourite spot for your next family outing, date night or gelato stop! Passionate for the fire-roasted pizzas born in Naples, Italy, Pizzeria Prima Strada pays homage to their Italian roots with a commitment to simple, fresh ingredients on traditional woodfired, thin crust pizza. Join them in the Valleyview Centre off Cowichan Bay Road for woodfired pizza, seasonal salads, cocktails, craft beer, local Averill Creek house wine by the glass, housemade gelato or a caffe. “We’re thrilled to be part of the community and fortunate to work with the many local farmers, wineries, cideries and culinary artisans - all in this spectacular landscape!” says Cristen DeCarolis, President of Prima Strada. “We’ve worked with Drumroaster from our beginning and now we’re next door to each other! We’re excited to take part in local events and are enjoying the local farms and farmers markets for our nightly features.”

and grab a seat with a view of the valley on a warm spring or summer day. Serving lunch and dinner daily from 11:00 am to 9:00 pm, the pizzeria features 10 taps with local craft beers and a new and exciting selection of summer cocktails. “Guests can see their food being made and enjoy a little taste of Italy. Really, great food with family and friends – it doesn’t get much better. We appreciate the support we’ve received from the Cowichan Valley community over the last few months. We love our new neighbourhood,” says Cristen DeCarolis. Pizzeria Prima Strada is Vancouver Island’s only authentic Neapolitan woodfired pizzeria. PPS has been voted ‘Best Pizza in the City in 2017’ by the Black Press Group in Victoria, one of the ‘Best Victoria’ restaurants in the 2017 Vancouver Magazine Awards and recently honored with the ‘Business of the Year 2016’ award from the Victoria Chamber of Commerce. Pizzeria Prima Strada Cobble Hill, 1400 Cowichan Bay Road, Valleyview Centre www.pizzeriaprimastrada.com

The new pizzeria has a beautiful sixty-five seat dining room and patio. Look for the red umbrellas

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

Craft Beer & Food Festival in Chemainus

elebrate the 2nd annual Craft Beer and Food Festival, the first and only Cowichan Valley craft beer event sanctioned by the BC Brewers Guild so you know it will be fantastic. The festival hosts 30 breweries and around 100 beers! Featuring live music plus a host of breweries such as: Riot Brewing Co, Wolf Brewing Co., Fernie Brewing Co., Hoyne Brewing Co., Parallel 49 Brewing Co. Mount Arrowsmith Brewing, Howe Sound Brewing, R&B Brewing Co., Sooke Oceanside Brewery, Red Racer by Central City, and

twenty others; you will find everything from IPA¹s to seasonal limited editions. Local gourmet Cowichan chefs bring their most extraordinary tasting dishes. Be prepared to eat as tokens can be used for food too! Pre-Sale Price $19.99 and include an entry ticket, keepsake glass, 5 tasting tokens, plus a chance to win an tablet! VIP passes are also available. Tickets available online and select retail locations throughout the region. Hosted by the Chemainus BIA and Riot Brewing Co. Cowichan Craft Beer and Food Festival, August 12, 1-5pm Artisan Village Expo Grounds 2952 Elm St., Chemainus craftbeer andfoodfest.com

COME AND SIT WHILE ... WE WILL WINE AND DINE YOU!

FEATURING COWICHAN VALLEY WINES & ISLAND CRAFT BEERS

AN EXCELLENT LUNCH STOP

CELEBRATE AL FRESCO DINING AT THE DAYLINER DECK - GARDENS LICENSED

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BLACKBERRY GALETTE A freeform cornmeal crust, filled with juicy blackberries. Makes 8 servings Crust: 1 cup all purpose flour + 1 tbsp (reserved) ½ cup cornmeal ½ tsp salt 2 tbsp sugar ¼ cup butter ¼ cup vegetable shortening 4-6 tbsp iced water Filling: ¼ cup sugar + 1 tbsp (reserved) 2 tbsp all purpose flour 6 cups fresh or frozen blackberries 1 tbsp milk Cut butter and vegetable shortening into small cubes and freeze on waxed paper for at least 1 hour (or overnight). Preheat oven to 375°F. In food processor (or use pastry blender), combine dry crust ingredients. Add butter and shortening, pulsing until mixture is crumbly. Incorporate water, a little at a time, enough to form dough into a disc. Flour surface and roll dough into a rough circle (about 12 inches). Transfer to parchment-lined baking tray. Sprinkle reserved tablespoon of flour over top. Combine all filling ingredients in large bowl. Distribute blackberries evenly over crust, leaving a 2-inch margin around edge. Begin folding edges inward to partially cover blackberries. Brush crust with milk and sprinkle reserved sugar over top. Bake for 45-50 minutes, until fruit is bubbling and crust is golden. Allow galette to cool for one hour before slicing. Pairs well with homemade lemon, honey frozen yoghurt. Vegan? Use all vegetable shortening and plant-based milk.

Blackberry galette, image Amanda Munsell

Blackberry Bounty

Amanda Munsell is a food blogger based in Cowichan Valley.Visit www. eatsandadventures. com.

plump, deep purple blackberry is just beyond your reach. Stepping amongst the brambles, sharp thorns grazing sweaty skin, you grasp the berry. Taking a bite, the tart, earthy flavour, it’s worth it! Blackberry season is bittersweet. A sign that summer is coming to an end, but reminding us of the bounty we have in the Cowichan Valley.

last long! Freezing whole blackberries, to use midwinter, and making jam are good options to preserve their unique, end-ofsummer flavour. Less traditional blackberry recipes include: BBQ sauce, red wine or balsamic

reduction, chutney, and even salsa. My favourite is a galette. Wrapping ripe blackberries (or any in-season fruit) with a rustic, fuss-free crust, you can’t go wrong.

It’s time to start picking as soon as the first berries ripen – wild blackberry season doesn’t

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

monocultures of one species. This decreases the biodiversity of that habitat.

Invasive Himalayan (large leaves)

(

Local Blackberry

(small leaves)

Battle of the Blackberries

rom a simplistic point of view, most people would say that the blackberry bushes in the Cowichan Valley are harmless, Right? They produce tasty berries for whomever is willing to pick them, humans and animals alike. The only problem is that most of the blackberry we come across in the Valley is unfortunately an invasive species! Himalayan Blackberry, or Rubus armeniacus, originates from Armenia and Northern Iran. It was likely introduced to Canada by settlers, many years ago, who would not have known of the potential impacts the plant could have on local ecosystems. In general the problem is that when invasive species are introduced to a new ecosystem they are not accompanied by their natural competitors, pests and pathogens, that would have kept them in check in their home countries. For that reason they tend to thrive here and actually take over areas creating dense

Biodiversity refers to the number of different plant and animal species in a given ecosystem or area. If one species is overly dominant and prevents others from establishing, it creates a shift in the ecosystem, often decreasing its ecological value. Globally, biodiversity is the second leading cause (after habitat loss) of species being listed as endangered or going extinct. Given this, it is important that we work towards the appropriate management of invasive species, especially in areas of high biodiversity and ecological value. The Somenos Marsh Conservation Area (2km north-east of Duncan) happens to be one of those areas of exceptional biodiversity that we aim to protect. This is why the Somenos Marsh Wildlife Society and partners have launched an initiative called the Somenos Ecosystem Stewardship Project aimed at getting a handle on the invasive situation in the conservation area. Part of this project, which is funded by Environment and Climate Change Canada’s EcoAction Community Funding Program, is to ecologically restore several areas that are being overrun with invasives, including Himalayan blackberry. We will begin to control the Himalayan blackberry in the Somenos Open Air Classroom, to allow native species the chance to recover and thrive. Few people know we also have a

native blackberry on Vancouver Island called Trailing blackberry, or Rubus ursinus. Having evolved here for many thousands of years it is part of the diverse ecosystems that are local to this area. It also provides delicious berries and has cultural uses for local First Nations. With this all in mind, on Sunday August 20th from 9am-12pm, we at the Somenos Marsh Wildlife Society would like to invite any volunteers willing to get their hands dirty to help remove the roots of Himalayan blackberry at the Open Air Classroom. To spice things up we’re going to be playing upbeat music to make the experience that much more enjoyable, hence the name of our event “Beats and Blackberries”. The blackberry clearing will be at the Somenos Open Air Classroom accessed by turning into the first parking lot on the right, off of the TransCanada highway northbound, after passing Beverly St. It is roughly across the highway from

Thrifty’s foods. We supply tools and gloves but if you have a preferred piece of equipment then by all means bring it. To prevent getting scratched by prickles we recommend wearing long sleeves and pants and closetoed shoes. Please dress for the weather. Although there will be complementary cold drinks and some treats, it is always advisable to bring some water to avoid getting dehydrated. If you have any questions or you wish to RSVP (appreciated but not required) please contact our Program Manager at programs@ somenosmarsh.com or 250-884-0749. Also visit our website somenosmarsh.com or Like us on Facebook to keep up to date on our activities. We hope to see you out there with us fighting the invasives and sustaining the biodiversity within the marsh. Submitted by Chris Jones and Elizabeth Bailey. Image Chris Jones

Successful Summer Cleansing With 100% Organic Elixirs

All organic! Cold-Pressed Juices + Juice Cleanses + Smoothies + Elixirs + Raw Food + Bulletproof Coffee

Try A Glow Cleanse! Whether it’s to lose weight, get in shape, or to start eating healthy, an Organic Glow Juice Cleanse is a great way to accelerate your health goals.

Call, come in, or book online at www.glowjuicery.ca. 250 597 2595 3-5380 Trans Canada Hwy, Duncan

“Within silence we ﬁnd great joy, quietude, peacefulness”

ummer is great. Camping, dining out, bbq’s, drinks, late nights… Sound familiar? Then perhaps you are feeling like the summer food and fun has caught up with you too. Tell tale signs of toxin build up - brain and body functions slowing down. Good friends tell me not to worry, that it is just ageing, but I know better. For me, this means time to care for my body and make space for a summer cleanse. Nothing drastic! Just 3 days or so. I eye my fantastic masticating juicer and then immediately compost and big clean ups come to mind. Nope cleaning will eat into my precious river time. Instead I opt for a supported juice cleanse with Glow. Supported detox is a great way to foray into the world of cleansing. Much like yoga, successful cleansing is achievable with good guidance. Many of us have done our favourite poses for decades, but how many of us practice them on our own at home? The support of our yoga instructor to pace us and guide us through a session is what ultimately enables our mind and body to reap the benefits. We happily pay to be guided through these sessions. A supported cleanse works much in the same way. Glow Juicery has researched specific organic fruit and vegetable blends for each of their juices. A schedule is provided, based on what our bodies need from morning to night and each blend contains three to six pounds of organic fruits and vegetables in every bottle. Three to six pounds! In each 3 day cleanse session your body will benefit from no less than 16 lbs of fresh organic

fruits, herbs and vegetables. 100% organic is what Glow is all about. For busy people, cleanse registration and payment can happen online or in store. I choose a three day juice cleanse with an added two day Wowza Cleanse to begin in a week. A few days before I receive a reminder email with a sheet to post on the fridge. I drop into the juicery the day before so I am ready with all the healthy elixirs for the next morning. Organized into separate Day, 1, 2 and 3 bags for ease, into the fridge they go and I sit down for supper as usual with the family. Day 1 - “Before your first Glow Juice of the day during your Cleanse: Drink a glass of hot water with lemon, or a few teaspoons of apple cider vinegar when you wake.” the sheet reads. These items are very alkalizing, and help the stomach breakdown and absorb the nutrients within the 3-6 lbs of fruits and vegetables that make up every bottle of juice. Ener-G Glow starts the day - a dark green tonic of organic pears, spinach, cucumber, celery and chlorophyll. Chlorophyll is a plant pigment that has been linked to cancer prevention by helping to block carcinogenic effects within the body. Liquid chlorophyll can bind to potential carcinogens to interfere with how they are absorbed in the gastrointestinal tract. It promotes optimal liver health and boosts the body’s natural elimination of harmful toxins, which in turn supports digestion and waste elimination. As the first juice of the day - it gets the body ready for all the minerals and vitamins

August 7 - 12, Tien Tai Retreat #4-3904 Johnny Bear Rd. Nichiren Buddha Center Register at: www.VIRetreats.com Info: txt. phone: 250. 710. 7594

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

to come. 9AM/ Citrus Glow a tantalizing burst of sun kissed energy for the body organic oranges, lemons, ginger and coconut water. A great summertime cleanse drink. 11AM/After Glow an early lunchtime blend of leafy greens - organic spinach, kale, parsley, cucumber, celery and apple. Feeling strong and satiated I choose to skip the noontime Glow salad suggested on my sheet and only consume juice. 2PM/Vitamin G - an sarasota blend of organic carrots, cucumber, orange, lemon and ginger a grounding juice for the afternoon. My first day ends with 4PM/ Glow Boost, a yoga class and 7PM Earthy Glow a bit off schedule due to the class and I retire to bed with a very happy body feeling the effects of the cleanse start. Day 2 - My husband reminds me that today is a transition cleanse day and can be a bit more challenging if I veer off schedule. Yes. Grateful for the reminder I remember this has often been the day I forget to drink water in-between juices which can lead to headaches. The morning begins with a noticeable increase in elimination. I once wondered if cleansing and camping might be a good idea - but these thoughts are quickly dispelled when I realize how often I use the washroom during this juice cleanse - ALOT. I grab two juices to take with me to an afternoon meeting in Cobble Hill. Remembering to drink water with aloe or lemon, I feel great and choose to skip the afternoon salad again. Energy high I work in the garden before supper admiring all the organic vegetables that will feed our family this yea. I finish the day with my evening 8PM/ Sky Glow Juice - organic pear, cucumber, kale, lemon, mint. A delicious before bed juice snack!

Day 3 - Day three begins with water and aloe. Gulp down my delicious Ener-G juice and grab the next two juices on the schedule to carry with me while running errands with the children. They ask for sips of the colourful ones and request to join in on the cleanse. These requests a true testament to how delicous these organic juice blends are! Cleansing with everything provided is such a pleasure because you get to concentrate on your day to day and not on preparing food or balancing your greens and sugars. No cravings for my usual salty crisps or evening chocolate. I am feeling lighter, clearer and the great joy of success. It is so much simpler to cleanse with everything at your fingertips and all the guesswork taken out of the concoctions. No measuring, no mess just delicious organic juice. I drop in to Glow to pick up my next two days of cleansing. Day 4 - Three days down. The Wowza cleanse is a new cleanse created by owner Brandy Mandrusiak to battle inflammation in the body as it is often the gateway to many other diseases or deficiencies. A powerful alkalizing blend composed of organic tumeric, ginger, lemon and raw apple cider vinegar. You are provided with a golden bottle of the blend from which 2 oz shots are mixed with warm water and taken five times a day. The day consists of water with lemon or aloe, the Wowza booster shot and scheduled bottles of Glowâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Pure Green - a blend of organic spinach, romaine, black kale, cucumber, celery, lemon and ginger. A good complement to the turmeric blend, the lack of fruit in Pure Green allows the body to focus on healing without worry about blood sugar levels rising. Fluids are running right through me without digestion blockages. If you have had any evidence of parasites or candida in your body, this specialty cleanse will help combat and eliminate in an all natural way, with just freshly juiced herbs, spices, citrus and vegetables.

Julia Allen R.C.C. MCP, IMHA, BA

Masters Counselling Psychology Registered Clinical Counsellor

Shamanic Practices, Therpeutic Altered States Therapy

250-709-9673 www.longboatcounselling.com info@longboatcounselling.com Day 5 - Woke up from a deep sleep feeling amazing. Attended a music show last night with a bottle of Pure Green in hand and no desire for anything else. My body from head to toe feels like it is radiating with Prana. Elimination this morning was pure. Body and mind are feeling clearer, light and very strong. Body is radiating from the inside. I go about my day sitting for breakfast with the family sipping on my warm turmeric - ginger blend, followed by a

noon time Pure Green. Looking forward to our last few summer getaways with a revived healthy mind and renewed lighter body. Thanks for the support. Glow Beginner, Intermediate and Specialty cleanses are available online at www.glowjuicery.ca or by visiting the cafe at 5380 Trans Canada Hwy. For more info or to book your juices call 250 597 2595 or email duncan@ glowjuicery.ca Submitted by Sheila Badman

Ocean Fun For Everyone at Mill Bay Marina

ooking for a fresh bit of fun this summer? Check out Mill Bay Marina with friends or family. No boat? No problem! There are many ways to enjoy this spot. On different summer schedules our family made plans to meet here one afternoon. Richard and the children arrived by sailboat from Cowichan Bay and I met them by car after work with swimsuits, fishing rods and towels. We discovered MBM by chance a few years ago while attending Barge On In. On that first visit we were surprised at how much dock action was taking place. There were fishermen perched on the far finger, couples enjoying a rest at a picnic table. Even yoga happens twice a week here in the summer. For those looking for guided adventures, Blue Dog Paddle is located onsite for kayak day trips, beginner tours or SUP adventures. For leisure fun, rideon kayaks and SUP’s are also available to rent from the marina for just $20 per hour and includes lifejackets. Our plan today was to adventure in Mill Bay so with three boys in tow we borrowed kayaks and stand up paddle boards. Pre tour we purchased some herring for the crab traps. MBM is unique in it’s deep water depth perfect for fishing

and crabbing. Various bait and lures are available at the office for all your fishing needs. The very wide and safe concrete dock makes for easy launching and pulling up. We set the traps down and secured them before setting off for our self guided kayak and SUP explorations. With easy launch platforms and the assistance of Cheryl and Shawn setting off was fun and easy. Our crew ventured throughout the bay, exploring rocky outcrops and little beaches. When we returned to the marina a quick dip was welcome in the heat. By now everyone was feeling a bit hungry so we checked the traps. Dungeness crab must measure at least 6.5” in width and Red Rock crab must measure just over 4.5” in width. In one afternoon the three children caught a combined 11 dungeness and red rock crabs. A few of our crabs came very close but not wanting to cook, I urged them to catch and release. Instead we ventured up the dock to Bridgemans Bistro a picturesque oceanside restaurant located at the marina. With a menu that changes seasonally and a friendly, loyal clientele, diners come in for a quick drink at the bar to watch the game or

sit down on the floating patio for an oceanview meal. A great place for families everyone can order from the appy, entree, or children’s menu. We began our meal with an order of Bourbon BBQ wings and cheesy Fondue Fries. Crispy, moist and perfectly sauced, everyone really enjoyed them with a blue cheese dip. They were so popular we almost ordered them twice! The Fondue Fries are epic. We weren’t sure about them at first but one of our party insisted and they were cheesy, scrumptious and delicious. If you are a fan of bacon and cheese you will love this unique fries dish. For our mains Richard ordered a delicious grilled flat iron steak sandwich topped with crumbled blue cheese, roasted onions and mushrooms served with a caesar salad. This sandwich has quickly become one of his favourites in the area. Tiller ordered the Bistro Burger made with flavourful ground chuck and served on a brioche bun. Though an adult menu item, this 8 year old gobbled his whole burger and all of the fries. From the children’s menu Gray ordered breaded panko chicken fingers served with hand cut fries and plum sauce and Shiloh ordered a mountain of nachos topped with generous cheese

and veggies and served with fresh cut salsa and sour cream. Everyone’s food looked so good we all shared bites. Unable to decide, I asked my server what her favourite menu items were. She heartily suggested the Sesame Prawn Chow Mein served with Hon’s fresh ramen noodles tossed in sesame soy sauce with prawns and veggies. For those unfamiliar with Hon’s - they have been making fresh noodles in Vancouver for over three decades. What a surprise to see them on a menu here on Vancouver Island. The dish was delicious and I gratefully thanked her for the suggestion. I enjoyed the meal with a caesar and local Cowichan Valley glass of wine. Richard sipped on a latte and the boys enjoyed a round of cold chocolate milk. For dessert, though full from the large portions, we couldn’t resist Bridgeman’s signature Deep Fried Ice Cream. Rolled in a sticky cornflake crust, topped with whipped cream and drizzled with chocolate sauce, it came with 5 spoons and was quickly devoured. A perfect meal to end a marvellous day of fun at Mill Bay Marina. www.millbaymarina.ca Submitted by Sheila Badman

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

Lenora Hive Share: Month Four Notes from the Hive

he weather has been hot and the bees have been busy. While observing the hive this month I was alarmed at what appeared to be bees guarding the entrance way and not letting other bees in. I quickly sent a message to our beekeeping mentor Chelsea Abbott about what we saw and she reassured us that this may just be the bees fanning the entrance way to cool the hive down. What remarkable creatures! This session begins with a list of things we should be aware of this month around the hive. My mind goes to the bear that has been visiting that Richard has been concerned about thinking he will go for the hive - but in fact Chelsea tells us that it is Yellow Jacket wasps. “ They are the most common predator of hives as we come into the late summer” An aggressive insect, wasps will attack local honey bees to steal nectar, pollen, and larvae from honey bee hives to take back to their own nests to feed their brood. We inspect for unwelcome wasps - but thankfully see none this time around (knock on wood). Our job is to observe for developing nests or Yellow Jackets in the area. To my surprise I learn that beekeeping duties change this

time of year, now that summer solstice has passed and there are less daylight hours. The honey super we added on top a few visits ago has not seen very much activity and we discuss removing it from the hive. I learn that if we set it down next to the hive, the few workers that have been using it will eventually leave. Another satisfying sight - purple pollen on the bees. Richard will be pleased to see the bees are finally utilizing the lavender farm near by. This session we both notice a decrease in bees and activity. Thinking back to last month we recall not seeing the queen and Chelsea reckons that she may have indeed swarmed before we got the super ready. She thoughtfully inspects frame after frame. Not to worry though she states cheerfully and points out the many stages of brood in the colony - larvae, pupae and the all important check for eggs laid within 24 hours. She thinks that there is a new queen amongst this hive. This could indicate that the old queen has left with a selection of the older population and this new queen is beginning to re populate the stock with purely Cowichan home grown bees. “This is great news!” our fearless mentor exclaims as we search for the queen. “What this means is that our hive has been able to birth, raise and support a purely local queen - a queen that has been bred from genetics within a 5-10km radius of our hive.” When we find her we rejoice.

“There she is the new queen!” Feeling great about our last hive visit, Chelsea encourages me to inspect the hive myself on the next session. Quite comfortable with these bees now I am happy to lead the inspection. I puff some smoke at the entrance and above the hive. I carefully pry the frames stuck with propolis with her tool. I edge them out carefully with my thumb and forefinger as instructed and flip them over. The first few are less populated than the middle

ones. Already forming good beekeeping habits I look for the queen from frame one. We see lots of nectar, honey and developing brood in all stages. It took a little while to find her but we did which is always a relief. Hive looks great for this time of year. I make our notes and close ‘er up. Another great bee class!

Submitted by Sheila Badman

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LIVE MUSIC ON SUNDAYS! 4 -7PM

Island Rockabilly Jamboree

ockabilly dates back to the early 1950s, when the sound of country music was first blended with that of rhythm and blues, leading to what is considered “classic” rock and roll. The best-known performers of the genre in those early days included Bill Haley, Elvis Presley, Buddy Holly and Jerry Lee Lewis. The music is known for its strong rhythms and twangy

guitars. Among modern performers of rockabilly music, Canada’s Paul Pigat is usually considered to be among the very best, and the Chemainus Rockabilly Festival is very proud to welcome him. Pigat has recently returned from New York, where he was appearing in “Twang-O-Rama”, a great celebration of the music played on the twangy Gretsch guitars. Along with Paul Pigat, several other popular BC rockabilly artists will be at the Chemainus festival. Earlier this year, Victoria’s Hank Angel was performing at Viva-East, a Marlborough (Massachusetts) celebration that featured a huge array of rockabilly bands. Hank Angel and his band, the Island Devils, will be a great addition to the Chemainus festival. Glen Foster is a widely respected musician from Nanaimo. He

is a master of several different musical genres, but is in great demand for his rockabilly skills. The Glen Foster Group will be opening the festival in Chemainus. Nanaimo’s Chevy Ray and the Fins is a band specializing in Rock ‘n Roll from the 1950’s, with a great array of rockabilly songs from the band’s many years in the genre. The Chemainus Valley Cultural Arts Society, which is organizing the Island Rockabilly Jamboree on August 12, is really happy to present these wonderful bands, and the great music that they represent. Waterwheel Park, Chemainus

Steeped In Jazz

ooking for something different to do on a Sunday afternoon? Join us for JAZZY TEA SUNDAYS as we feature some of the valley’s finest jazz musicians performing live in the tea garden. Admission is free for this tea culture experience as you enjoy our Tea+Sweet Pairing Menu offering. Reservations are recommended for this intimate event. August 6,13,20,27 @ 1-3PM Call or email 250.748.3811 info@teafarm.ca www.teafarm.ca

Cowichan Valley Shakespeare Festival

he Shawnigan Players proudly present the 2017 Cowichan Valley Shakespeare Festival! For our sixth year at beautiful Gem o’ the Isle Farm, we have two plays on offer – a remount of 2016’s runaway smash hit A Midsummer Night’s Dream, and, for the first time in Players’ history, that famous tale of ambition and fate, Macbeth.

The tragedy of Macbeth tells the story of a noble warrior and his spirited wife whose desire for power, intensified by a supernatural prophecy, leads to obsession, madness, and chaos. A Midsummer Night’s Dream, a light-hearted comedy about the madness and chaos of love, pokes fun at the obsessions of lovers both mortal and supernatural. Both plays are directed by Alex Gallacher. The Shawnigan Players’ summer productions at the farm have quickly become a valley tradition. The company includes actors ranging in age from ten to eighty-something, and look for several performers to appear in both shows! Gem o’ the Isle is an enchanting, magical outdoor setting for

s u n i a m e h C in ALL EVENTS AT Waterwheel Park August 1 • 7pm Music In The Park Fin de Fiesta August 8 • 7pm Music In The Park Citizen Jane August 12 Island Rockabilly Jamboree Paul Pigat & Cousin Harley August 13 • 11am - 4:30pm Chemainus Accordion Day Nine great accordion acts

August 19 & 20 Chemainus Jazz Festival Modern Jazz Saturday and Traditional Jazz Sunday August 22 • 7pm

live theatre, with Music in the Park a minimalist stage Mark Crissinger Band tucked among the apple trees against August 29 • 7pm a backdrop of Music in the Park horse pastures and beautiful rainforest. Flint & Feather Tiered seating is available and Tuesday evening concerts are audience members by donation. Remember to are welcome to bring your own lawn chairs to all bring blankets and events in the park. sit on the grass. Family members of all ages are encouraged to Showtimes 7:30pm/Matinee attend and special family2pm. Adv tickets $20/$30 festival rate tickets are available. pass. Adv family tickets $40/$60 August 2 – 13 Gem o’ the festival pass. At the gate $25 / Isle Farm, 2465 Koksilah Festival $40, Family $60 / Family Rd. Macbeth- August 2, Festival $80 Adv tickets at Ten 3, 5, 6, 9, 11, 12, matinee Old Books, Mason’s Store, or August 13. A Midsummer online at cowichanshakespeare. Night’s Dream-August 4, eventbrite.ca To reserve email 8,10, matinee August 6 . shawniganplayers@gmail.com.

www.cvcas.com

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

NASA Scientist Peter Kalmus Book Signing Event

nterested in learning more about change action? Come meet Peter Kalmus who will speak about his new book, Being the Change: How to Live Well and Spark a Climate Revolution, a story about his family’s transition to life on one-tenth of the fossil fuels used by the average American family.

Having earned his Ph.D in physics from Columbia University and currently employed as a climate scientist at NASA’s Jet Propulsion Lab, Peter excels at explaining complex concepts, such as the green house effect and the carbon cycle. Despite the severity of climate change, he remains optimistic about how we can maintain a healthy outlook to embrace everyday practical solutions to reduce our carbon impact. This event is a great and rare opportunity to hear Peter speak on merging science and spirituality to develop a holistic response to global warming and how we as individuals can play a vital part in the climate revolution. Not only is he a scientist, Peter is also a philosopher. He takes meditation practice very seriously. He suggests that meditation can help cope with the grief brought on by understanding the severity of climate change, and can improve relationships and build community, which are crucial to establishing resilience to fight climate change at a grassroots level. He looks forward to sharing the wealth of his experience and knowledge

August Feature Artist Mixed Media Artist Diana Durrand’s “McMonos” Show Artist’s reception Saturday, August 12 1-3pm • Everyone welcome Excellent Frameworks Home of the EJ Hughes Gallery 28 Station St., Downtown Duncan www.excellentframeworks.ca 250 746 7112 with environment conscious community members who are devoted to creating a sustainable future in the Cowichan Valley. The event is co-hosted by the Community Farm Store and Cowichan Energy Alternatives. The Community Farm Store is dedicated to facilitating a series of talks that benefit community members to pursue healthy, holistic, and environmentally conscious ways of life. Cowichan Energy Alternatives, a local non-profit organization, helped

Peter’s publishing company New Society Publishers become carbon neutral with the Community Carbon Marketplace through emissions reducing projects located here on Vancouver Island. Come join Peter to celebrate his new book on the second floor of the Community Farm Store, 5380 Trans-Canada Hwy, 7-9 pm Thursday August 17, doors opening at 6:30 pm. This is a free event. Drinks and snacks will be provided.

Quality Performing Arts Education in the Cowichan Valley

FALL REGISTRATION NOW OPEN For more information visit us at WARMLANDDANCE.WIX.COM/COWICHAN

To register for classes call 250-818-9096 or email us at warmlanddance@gmail.com

t the beginning of this story, our company held a vital dream; a quest for an effective and natural solution for sleeplessness. U~Dream is a made-in-Canada sleep remedy and headquartered in the beautiful Cowichan Valley. This unique formula is the result of years of intensive research and development by a team of phyto-pharmacologists and health care professionals passionate in their quest to combine state-of-the-art Western herbal science with the ancient traditions of Eastern herbal medicine. The result is a 100% natural formula that helps the body achieve an effective, prolonged and natural sleep without the grogginess and side-effects common with prescription drugs.

A Dream Come True...

Typically, a lack of sleep is most often related to over-stimulation which affects our natural cycles. This disequilibrium can severely impact our circadian rhythm, but unlike Benzodiazepines (psychoactive drugs which can be prescribed as sleep aids), U~Dream gently calms the nervous system allowing sleep to emerge naturally. Employing a precise blend of roots, fruits, barks and flower extracts, U~Dream targets the most common sleep difficulties, including insomnia and disturbed sleep patterns. The effectiveness of this formulas is based on the following ingredients: Passionflower: a calming herb for anxiety and insomnia Lion’s Mane: a mushroom known for its positive effect in reducing both anxiety and depression Schisandra: a ‘super-berry’ that provides both stress relief and assists with insomnia Loquat: a fruit extract that helps as a mild sedative Jujube: another fruit traditionally used to address symptoms of anxiety and insomnia L-tryptophan: an essential amino acid well known for its sleep-inducing qualities Tuber Fleeceflower and Rehmannia roots: assists with

alleviating insomnia For those who have difficulty falling asleep at bedtime and wish to emerge from sleep fully-refreshed next morning, U~Dream is available in the Full Night Formula. For those who wake up in the middle of the night, before a healthy night’s rest is complete, the Lite Formula will help you return to the sleep so that you wake up rested and ready for the day. Among the many benefits of U~Dream, it will: • Improve the duration and quality of sleep • Help resolve insomnia and restlessness • Calm the nervous-system promoting restorative sleep • Soothe ongoing anxiety • support an easy transition to sleep (Full Night Formula) • aid in the return to sleep after night-waking (Lite Formula) • ensure you wake up refreshed, not groggy (either formula) • not produce any residual effects, unlike pharmaceutical drugs (U-Dream is neither addictive nor has any toxic effects) • provide 100% natural fast- acting remedy. And so we end with an opportunity for your story of a new life-changing Dream, to try this remarkable new product and change your desire for proper rest to actually obtaining a peaceful night’s sleep. From the Cowichan Valley to the world, U~Dream is now available at the Community Farm Store in Duncan. Try it, as we can say with confidence that you will be amazed with the results!

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

and it’s only part of a sleep system. Without the knowledge of alignment, sleep just can’t improve to the level that I know is possible.

Pillow Talk: Body Pillows

hree years into Resthouse I find myself in amazement with how much sleep is a struggle for almost everyone. We are all vulnerable creatures and need support wherever we can. Watching the matttess industry get busier and busier, I find myself struggling with how to get the message across with my discovery. You don’t need to buy a new mattress to fix your sleep problems. In fact often this new purchase will make it worse. The golden nugget of sleep recovery, which is so very obvious, once you visualize it, Is the body pillow. Imagine yourself sleeping on your side. Just resting there. You put a pillow in between your legs because this is what your practitioner told you to do. This feels good and tends to

show some improvement. But what happens once you actually start to fall asleep. Deep sleep and gravity start to take over and your body starts to collapse. Now remember there is a pillow in between your legs so what’s your shoulder going to do? Fall forward! And now you have completely twisted your spine and will need to prematurely adjust your body positioning. The mattress had very little to do with this. As long as you have good support and some softness so your hips don’t hurt, your good. Sleep alignment is the key.

Intuitively figuring out your rhythm and strategically using pillows or body pillows to prevent your body from moving in places that cause pressure points and twisting. I’ve sold these body pillows for almost 20 years and I believe they will transform the sleep industry. Imagine a product that’s not $2000 that could fundamentally change your sleep habits and give relief on both a physical and emotional level. The mattress industry is a multi billion dollar business

Deep and restorative sleeps without uncessarry pain and discomfort is right under our noses. Stop your top leg from sliding over the bottom leg and you stop the momentum of the shoulder collapsing and the source of almost all side sleepers agony. If we just slide the awareness from mass production of mattresses and open our eyes to proper sleep alignment and hygiene, we will start to see a whole new narrative and consciousness towards sleep and what actually works for the common sleeper.

Chris Manley, owner -Resthouse a locally owned Natural Sleep shop. www.resthouse.ca

Summertime Sundays in Downtown Duncan.

nly a stone’s throw away from the busy Trans Canada Highway, Downtown Duncan is a hidden gem; surrounded by the beauty of the Cowichan Valley, Downtown Duncan is a nugget of retail delight for those in the know. From food to fashion and hobbies to haircuts, downtown offers over 300 shops & services within its wonderful, walkable downtown core. Did you know that more Downtown Duncan shops than ever before are now open on Sundays? It’s true. There are over 40 shops, services, and

restaurants keeping downtown vibrant and open for business all weekend. See for yourself head downtown on a Sunday to stroll, sip, savour, shop…and enjoy the plentiful parking! Open Sundays: Area 51, Archer & Arrow, Authentic Pizza, Belongings, Bikram Yoga, Bodhi Collective, Bully Boy Tattoos, Café la Vie, Caprice Theatres, Cardino Shoes, Cloverdale Paint, Craig Street Brew Pub, Duncan Garage and Bakery Café, Duncan Showroom,

Eclectic Avenue, Embellish, Fabrications, Harmony Yoga, Judy Hill Gallery, Just Jake’s Lulu’s, Merit Furniture, Olive Station, Pho Vuong, Pots & Paraphernalia, Red Balloon Toy Shop, Resthouse Sleep Solutions, Saltspring Soapworks, Shades Ladies Clothing, Sheer Essentials Lingerie, Sheer Essentials Swim, Soulful Memories

A RPM, Ten Old Books, The Big Scoop, The Royal Dar, The Twisted Mug Café, Uncle Albert’s Furniture, Victory Barber, Volume One Books, Wall Street and Willow & Orchid.

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

So it’s natural, I suppose, that as a practicing artist I have often incorporated familiar found objects into my work, and that one night, while walking our dog, I would notice a small kimono like shape on the sidewalk, softly lit by a street lamp. On closer inspection I discovered it was the inside of a flattened McDonald’s fry box. I had to smile and pick it up. It remained pinned to my studio wall for a couple of years, until I received a book on the history of the Japanese Kimono. Intrigued and inspired by the unlikely convergence of forms, I began painting the intricate kimono patterns I found in the book directly onto the inside, yellowstriped surface of flattened french fry cartons. The result was a playful experiment, rich in cross cultural connotations.

McMono by Diana Durrand

rt critique Liz Gilbert wrote, “Diana is an amiable artist with an infectious wit, who elevates everyday experience and domestic objects to benignly humorous levels.” In my work I have drawn inspiration from the compassionate spirit expressed in simple things, in unexpected ways. I create from my own life experiences, interpreting and transforming ideas into visual form. My latest works have been exploring our relationship with other species and our responsibilities as ‘keepers’. Where are the pigs, where are they? Gallus Domestics, we are the keepers and the Bumble Bees are examples of this new direction. Dandelions and our attitude to this wondrous weed are on the horizon. I remember, as a kid, working with cardboard from discarded boxes and even throw-away backings from my father’s new shirts, which my mother saved for me. Those ‘recycled’ materials made wonderful beds for my dolls, or could be cut into sturdy animal shapes etc.

The McMono Exhibition is a body of 15 original acrylic paintings and one sculpture – a box printed then folded back into its functional form, wrapped in the 17th Century design. The juxtaposition draws viewers’ attention to a striking parallelism, exploring the relationship between design and beauty, function and art, intent and unconscious outcomes. August 2-31, “McMonos” Mixed Media Show by Diana Durrand. Special Art Afternoon August 12, 1 - 3pm. Excellent Frameworks, 28 Station St. Duncan. 250-746-7112.

Poppy Basket. Watercolour on pure rag pape, 22 x 30 Jennifer Lawson

“Live the Island Dream” Nick Brown

Realtor/Associate Broker Pemberton Holmes 23 Queens Rd, Duncan, BC 250-710-3732 nickbrownrealestate@shaw.ca

Jennifer Lawson Featured Artist at Imagine That! Veronica Scott is a mosaic artist and freelance writer.

An exhibition of Jennifer’s work will be held at Imagine That Artisans’ Designs in downtown Duncan from July 28 through August 25.

In addition to painting, heritage preservation is another of Jennifer’s passions. She has a new painting at Elkington House (also known as Oak Park House) in the Garry Oak preserve on Maple Bay Road. “I like to think that in some small way I am raising awareness of the need to preserve the beauty of the house. A film was recently shot there. The District of North Cowichan has leased the house for a year with improvements underway, she explains.

A ‘plein air’ painter, Jennifer describes her work as “an expression of my perennial love affair with life.” From a young age, as a child growing up in Yorkshire England, she was attracted to the brilliant colours and warm tones of country cottages with flowers trailing over fences.

An award-winning artist, Jennifer holds art degrees from the University of Guelph and Georgian College in Ontario. She exhibits widely both in Canada and the United States. Jennifer is also a founding member of Cowichan Artisans Tours, a group of full-time professional artists and artisans.

“The thrill of painting in watercolour is all about the beauty of translating feelings with brushstrokes of colour,” she says. Her love of colour also comes from extensive travel abroad, particularly India.

The exhibition includes watercolours of the Cowichan Bay in ink and wash, local heritage buildings, and works done in Yorkshire, “my beloved homeland.”

ennifer Lawson is a popular watercolour artist who lives and works in Cowichan Bay. Her warm, expressive, paintings attract a wide audience both nationally and internationally.

Find us at 306 Duncan St. nestled bet ween the Duncan Garage and Rayʻs Antiques, One of a kind, Clothing, Accessories and gifts for the whole family. Each piece is handcrafted with love by artists from around the corner and across BC. For more info or to register call 778-455-4888 • Skin Care Services • Esthetics Services • Natural Sugaring Hair Removal • Onsite Gel Nail Artist • Facial Bar

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DUNCAN

250 510 8700

#105 80 Station Street - Please use Craig St entrance

grass, an inviting tea service laid out on a wheelbarrow, or an idyllic-looking home set in a bucolic countryside.”

From her attractive heritage home and studio over looking the Cowichan river and bay, Jennifer continues to be absorbed by nature. She sees herself as an optimist at heart who loves beauty, “whether it is a cerulean blue bench nestled under a blossoming tree, a highland cow standing knee-deep in luxuriant

Don’t miss the exhibition!

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

Mad Dog Crabs Seafood Market is the only fresh seafood market in Duncan

cott has been commercial fishing for over 20 years on BC’s coast. It was only natural that his wife Katie would join him on the boat, but as the commercial life at sea became more challenging, Katie, along with their young girls started selling crab, then fish, at the local Farmers’ Market in Duncan on Saturdays. The market turned out to be resoundingly successful, which of course led to musings about establishing a seafood shop in town... and thus was born Mad Dog Crabs Seafood Market! Fast forward a decade later and our girls are now university bound

and needing summer employment, so we approached the Old Farm Market south of Duncan with the idea of having a part-time seafood market. They too are a family owned and operated business ,who also believe in providing the valley the fresh local best,so it was a good match. Our niece Alli from Ontario was looking for summer employment at that time, so she flew out here to train and work with us to see if a second location was a viable option. Locals and tourists loved having the second location and it enabled us to be available to our Cowichan Valley customers 7 days a week between the 2 stores. It was so successful that we decided to open it all year long and lucky for us our niece fell in love with the Island just as our customers fell in love with her and so once graduated from university she has moved out here and helps us to run our “shack “ location as well as runs our main store in January so we can have a vacation! Check out our newly updated website, join our weekly newsletter or check us out on Facebook for daily fish updates,

iced coffees & ICED TEAS Blended smoothies fresh ice cream sandwiches

what’s open, what’s coming and for new products. We are the crabbiest place to put a smile on your face! Submitted by Katie Mahon

FREE LANGUAGE CLASSES, EMPLOYMENT AND SETTLEMENT SERVICES FOR ELIGIBLE NEWCOMERS

WHERE CULTURES CONNECT

www.cis-iwc.org

250-748-3112

ATMOSPHERE: A place of magic Cumberland’s destination fest fuses music, art, dance and fun

usical mastery, mindtingling workshops and the magic that comes with hundreds of happy, dancing people – that’s Atmosphere Gathering. The famed forward-facing festival of music, art and dance is soon, Aug. 18-20, in historic Cumberland, the upside of the Comox Valley. Atmosphere is the perfect festival mix: not too big, not too costly, but great music, friendly, safe and an experience so mesmerizing it becomes an unforgettable life event. Atmosphere transforms Cumberland’s prized community park – green-grass, treed, backed by mountains – to a joyful celebration of creativity, with 100-plus performers, classic Big Top circus tent, installation art, three stages, culinary and market-type vendors, and plenty of frolic.

There’s plenty of camping, an adjacent free water park, Comox Lake swimming up the road, and a nearby brew-pub. “This is not just a spectator event; this is full-on involvement,” says co-producer Ben Howells. “We’ve chosen truly amazing bands, electronic acts, light shows, workshops, dancers and performers. Once you’re immersed, there’s no escaping the Atmosphere.” Headliners Half Moon Run – Montreal-based with roots on the Island – last year toppled Arcade Fire from the top of the Best Band category in the Best of MTL reader’s poll. Top-tier Canadian indigenous acts are also coming. Juno award winners Digging Roots combine romantic optimism with folk-rock, pop, blues and hip hop influences. The duo has collaborated with major indigenous talent Tanya Tagaq, Kinnie Starr and A Tribe Called Red. Mohawk DJ Shub, a founding member of A Tribe Called Red, has captured numerous Indigenous music awards, including one for his solo EP PowWowStep and his powerful video “Indomitable.”. Atmo has also put a clear focus on female acts, as diverse in style as from points on the globe.

Australians This Way North create groove-based dynamic power drumming, swampy slide guitar, soul-filled vocals and compelling alt-pop melodies. CloZee, from Toulouse, France, seamlessly combines technical precision with wild imagination. She started producing electronic music at age 16 and won ‘Best International Newcomer of 2013’ at the UK Glitch Hop Awards and now oscillates among world bass, tribal trap, glitch-hop, trip-hop and downtempo. B.C. favourite Kytami has forged a path so bold and unique that she won the “Live Act of The Year” at the 2013 Vancouver Island Music Awards and “Electronic/Dance Recording of the Year” at the 2013 Western Canadian Music Awards. She

fuses classical fiddles styles with heavy bass elements of drum ’n’ bass, dubstep and hip hop. After co-founding Delhi2Dublin, Kytami went solo in 2010 and was dubbed a ‘music revolutionary’ by What’s Up Magazine. Other women performers include MC Erica Dee, Lady AK, Applecat, Sophia Donai, Marin Patenaude, Cathy Stoyko and COZY, representing a wide variety of progressive musical styles. “If you can make only one festival this year, this should be it,” said Howells. “There’s magic here.” www.atmospheregathering.com

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

a valuable commodity and a precious resource. In 1897 a British surgeon mused that, “to England, with her numerous and extensive Colonial possessions, [the cinchona bark] is simply priceless; and it is not too much to say, that if portions of her tropical empire are upheld by the bayonet, the arm that wields the weapon would be nerveless but for Cinchona bark and its active principles.”

History glass Gin & Tonic Jessica Schacht is a local writer and co-founder of Ampersand Distilling Company

’d be remiss to let the summer pass by without touching on this classic. After the martini, it might just be the most common gin cocktail. Refreshing and delicious on a hot summers day, it’s not hard to see why. But this seemingly simple drink has a history that reaches back to the 17th century. Tonic water’s primary ingredient is quinine, found naturally in the bark of the Cinchona tree. Europeans first realized it’s value after the Spanish conquered South America and encountered the indigenous peoples treating malaria with the bark of the ‘Fever Tree’. Bringing this medicine back to Europe, cinchona bark became

Soldiers and citizens in British colonies began taking their daily ration of quinine to prevent malaria. The extremely bitter taste posed a problem for some though, and it became common to sweeten the quinine water with sugar, creating tonic water. It was only a matter of time before people began adding a healthy ration of gin to their tonic water, taking their medicine in the afternoon instead of the morning, and adding a lime to ward off scurvy. This cocktail was an essential combination of ingredients important for the health of soldiers and citizens alike. There are many craft tonics on the market today. Fever Tree, Fentimans, Q, and local favourite Phillips Tonic, are all excellent craft versions to experiment with in your next G&T. There are even tonic syrups like The Third Place & Bradley’s Kina Tonic which you add your own soda water to. And while the lime is the traditional garnish, you can experiment with everything from juniper berries to cucumbers to suit the profile of your tonic & gin.

SUNDAY AUG 6 • 2-5pm Jazz Saxophonist P.J.Perry $20 adv/$25 door Canada’s Mr. Bebop, Perry will perform with Vancouver guitarist Oliver Gannon, bassist Neil Swainson, and drummer Hans Verhoeven.

1534 Joan Avenue Crofton To reserve a table call 250-324-2245

The G&T is truly a glass filled with history, awaiting contemplation somewhere on a sunny patio.

G&TwithFillice.a glass Add 2 oz Ampersand Gin. Top with tonic of your choice. Garnish with lime wedge.

oin us for an afternoon of fun and music at CERCA’s fifth anniversary. If you haven’t listened to the great music performed on an Ukulele, here is your chance: Laura Anderson, a well known musician and a highly skilled Ukulele player founder of the “Ukululu” Band has volunteered to provide the musical entertainment for our CERCA birthday All are welcome to this family- and pet-friendly event aimed at nature lovers, persons who want to learn more about the estuary and CERCA, or families just wanting to enjoy an afternoon in nature spiced with musical entertainment. Combine your visit with a pleasant nature walk along the trail starting at the Maple Grove Park or the OpenAir Classroom Estuary Nature Trail neighbouring the park. Soft drinks and home-made cakes are being served free of charge. Here is you opportunity to mingle with CERCA members, make new friends, learn more about the estuary and our projects, our achievements and plans for the future. It will be a fun afternoon and a great opportunity for community members to socialize in a beautiful environment. It is hard to believe that the Cowichan Estuary Restoration and Conservation Association commonly known as “CERCA” is celebrating already its fifth Anniversary. It feels only like yesterday that a handful of estuary aficionados got together to re-vitalize the former “Cowichan Estuary Society”

dormant at the time for a number of years. And equally surprising that CERCA’s founding group of five by now has grown into a charitable society with more than 110 members. Five years ago we jointly identified what should be done to restore the ecological health of the Cowichan Estuary based on an assessment of its strengths, weaknesses, opportunities and threats. Restoration and conservation would from here on guide CERCA’s activity program for the benefit of the estuary and the watersheds of the Cowichan and Koksilah Rivers on which the estuary depends. This holistic approach adopted by our group from day one continues to characterize CERCA’s remarkable track record. You may remember our first project following CERCA’s registration as a non-profit Society: the development of a comprehensive “mobile estuary exhibition” which we elaborated did jointly with the Royal BC Museum, on display in the past at the Duncan Mall, the Cowichan Valley Regional Library, and the Duncan Forest Museum. Or two other major restoration projects we completed in the estuary: the first in cooperation with Western Stevedoring involving the breach of the westcan dyke enabling salmon spawn from the Cowichan River to access the last eelgrass field left in the estuary, the second in partnership with Ducks Unlimited and Western Forest Products restoring Mariners Island salt- marsh

Come Out For CERCA’s Fifth Anniversary Park Celebration where more than 10,000 logs washed onto the marsh over decades, were successfully being removed. In partnership with Sidney Anglers Association we continue trying to bring back the herring to Cowichan Bay by enhancing their spawning habitat. Alarmed by the world-wide decline of swallow populations we have produced dozens of nesting boxes distributed over the estuary successfully occupied by the cavity-breeding swallows already a second year in a row. Another major and still ongoing CERCA project is the construction of the Open-Air Classroom Estuary Nature Trail which you may have walked already a few times. If you are interested we also will tell you about our cooperation with China regarding estuary restoration. Sharing experience and learning from each other, especially with respect to our current blue carbon research project jointly implemented with the

• • • • •

University of Victoria, we hope for a lively cross-cultural and scientific exchange benefiting our estuary and our partner estuary, one of the largest in China! There are still so many things to learn about and to do in the estuary, hopefully resulting in a come-back of salmon and the re-opening of the shellfish harvest which has been closed far too long due to estuary contamination. Come and join us for the afternoon. We are looking forward meeting you! Sunday August 6, 2-4pm, CERCA celebration at the Maple Grove Park opposite the Lawn Tennis Court on Cowichan Bay Road free of charge!

Submitted by Dr. Goetz Schuerholz Conservation Ecologist, Chair of CERCA

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

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Ladysmith Is About To Get A Creative Block

t’s the 19th year for Ladysmith’s own Arts on the Avenue! As Twyla Tharp once said, “Art is the only way to run away without leaving home.” Arts On The Avenue brings a wide array of visual arts experiences to Ladysmith each summer. Join the festivities on First Avenue and experience the inspiration of 55 regional artists who will show and sell work ranging from fine wooden bowls to photography, original paintings, glass, clay, metal, jewelry, and much more! This years’ guest artist is Sheila Norgate. Arts On the Avenue is on First Avenue, Ladysmith, August 27,th from 10 am - 4pm.

“car race” for the kids! The tents along First Avenue will morph into a sensational lighting display to create a corridor that pays homage to the natural beauty of our town, but this year the event offers some exciting Canada 150 features as well. Don’t miss this fun-filled weekend to purchase one-of-akind unique art pieces and learn something new at one of the artist demonstrations. Browse through featured works by talented artists of all ages or simply take a seat and be entertained by a variety of local musicians.

In collaboration with Arts On The Avenue the third annual “Light Up The Night” event will take place along First Avenue from 6:30pm to 10pm on Saturday, August 26th. 2017. This event presents a unique experience that explores multiple types of media including, lighting installations, interactive art, steam roller print making and even a “drive in” movie and a

Two events one Weekend all the Beautiful downtown Ladysmith. Please leave your pets at home, thank you Save the Date! Arts On The Avenue; Sunday August 27th 2017 10am -4pm Light Up The Night, Saturday, August 26th 2017 630pm 10pm

UPPER RIVER CLEANUP

Cowichan Lake and River Stewardship Society’s 8th Annual Upper River Clean August 19 9 AM.-1 PM Central Park, Lake Cowichan FREE

of 14 must be accompanied by an adult.A BBQ lunch will be provided for all the hard working volunteers at around 1 p.m.

Did you know that CLRSS does much more than just the River Clean Up? Some of their projects include boater education, the Stream Signage Project, regular water quality monitoring, and generally working to protect and preserve ecologically sensitive areas in and around Cowichan oin the Cowichan Lake and Lake and Cowichan River. River Stewardship Society on Bottles and cans collected during August 19 for their eighth annual the Clean Up provide revenue to River Clean-Up! help fund these and many more Last year saw 280 kilograms projects. So, as with previous of garbage hauled out of years, the society is asking you to the Cowichan River by 100 save your returnables and donate volunteers. Because individuals them on the day of the Clean Up. like you take the time to help out, the society has seen a reduction For more information on the in the amount of waste pulled Clean Up, from the river each year. or any of the So don your wet suit, ready other projects your boat and prepare to Clean the society is Up the river! Meet at 9 a.m. in undertaking, Central Park in Lake Cowichan visit cowichanto register and to be assigned lake-stewards. to a team and a section of the ca. river. Clean Up begins at 10 a.m. Children under the age

HOW TO FIX A LEAKY HOSE IN UNDER 5 MINUTES • Check for wet patches under any place where your garden hoses connect to a tap, nozzle or another hose. • Use a wrench to tighten any leaky connections. If still leaky, disconnect

the hose and install a good fresh ‘hose donut’ (washer) inside the larger hose/faucet end. Re-connect and tighten with a wrench. • Check the math! Washers only cost about a quarter

each. With a bad leak, this quick fix will save about 10 litres per hour. Over the course of a summer, on a hose that leaks all day, that’s 24,000 litres!

in Cowichan Lake. However, it won’t always be that way if we don’t take care of this precious resource.

Cowichan Lake ranks second in water clarity on Vancouver Island

Development, poor logging practices, and destruction of riparian zones contribute greatly to a decline in the health of a watershed. Leroy Van Wieren, president of CLRSS, says that to keep the lake as pristine as it is, we all need to “minimize shoreline erosion by minimizing development, keep natural plants and riparian areas intact, and minimize boat activity.” Tamu Miles, Novelist, blogger, and employee at Dinter Nursery

ou probably don’t need another reason to love living in the Cowichan Watershed, but here’s one anyway. Cowichan Lake has been ranked second in water quality for the last 13 years. No, you didn’t misread that. Since 2004, George deLure and Bill Gibson from the Cowichan Lake and River Stewardship Society (CLRSS) have gone out on the water once a week to measure the clarity, temperature, and dissolved oxygen levels of the lake. And, once a year, in mid July, the two participate in what is called a Secchi Disk Weigh-Up. Along with water stewardship societies across BC, they send their

JODIE MCDONALD, MSW RSW 250-580-2252 jodie@livingandbreathing.ca

results in to the BC Lake and Stewardship Society, who then compiles and interprets the data. There are two types of measurements that are taken to determine the overall clarity and quality of a lake. The first is Surface Temperature (ST). ST is an important ecological indicator, as it helps to determine much of the seasonal oxygen, phosphorus, and algae conditions. The second is Secchi depth (water clarity). Secchi depth helps to determine the productivity of a lake and thus the amount of phosphorous and nitrogen present. Higher phosphorous numbers lead to more algae which results in less clarity in the water. Phosphorous build-up can create nutrient pollution

Bill Gibson retrieves a secchi disk from Cowichan Lake. Secchi disks are used for measuring water clarity.

causing algae blooms that reduce oxygen levels in the lake. The good news is that the data that has been collected shows that this has not been the trend

IBP INTEGRATIVE BODY PSYCHOTHERAPISTS COUNSELLING AND HEALING BREATHWORK

And of course we need to be respectful of the lake on a dayto-day basis by cleaning up our garbage, restoring riparian areas on private properties, and by making sure that contaminants such as gasoline and sewage are kept out of the lake. And most of all, we need to celebrate what we have! Because being ranked second in clarity only highlights what we already know: that we are lucky to live in this beautiful watershed.

SYBILLE WEBB, MEd 250-715-6957 sybillewebb@shaw.ca

e hear a lot of talk about sustainability; what it means, if is it achievable, what will it cost, who will pay, and who will lead us to this illusive Nirvana? This future place where there is enough for all, where thriving and prosperous communities do not shrivel and die when the resources that sustained them are gone, where a modern society does not obsess on growth as a measure of progress or success. It does not take a rocket scientist to know that in a finite world, if you eat more than you can grow, it is only a matter of time until there is nothing left to eat or plant. The same applies to the wild systems we rely on, from fisheries, and forestry to our soil and water. If we do not manage them wisely, we will see fisheries collapse, logging and forest industries decline, soil depletion and water shortages. Indeed, we are already witnessing some of these hardships with cod fisheries collapse, dramatic reductions in salmon stocks, the need to cut smaller and smaller trees to feed the fiber and wood export markets, and devastating water shortages in some parts of the United States. I know we are all diligently using cloth bags, taking public transit, shopping local and organic, not flying, and generally reducing, reusing and recycling. Or maybe not so much? I do know a few dedicated souls who generate all their own power, grow most of their own food, buy only local and/or organic, drive electric or hybrid cars and campaign tirelessly to inspire other individuals and elected officials to get on the sustainability bandwagon. But it is not an easy row to hoe. My own experience has shown me that building an energy efficient home with ground source heat pump, 10

inch walls, triple pane windows and solar panels, gets you no rebates, credits or discounts. In fact, the reward for building a modest, super efficient, nearly net-zero house is that you get to pay extra property tax because your house cost more to build. Perhaps I am naïve, but I believe that most of us would like to know that the way we worked, played and lived was not going to have lasting negative impacts on the all of the other species with whom we share the planet, or on the future generations of our own species. But why does trying to live lightly on the planet have to be so hard and/or so expensive? What if it wasn’t just up to you? What if single use plastic bags from grocery stores were banned, as they are in 3 Canadian provinces? What if building permits for modest energy efficient homes were much cheaper per square foot than for huge energy consuming mansions? What if property taxes were scaled to give credit to those who exceeded the building code for energy efficiency and “green” building technologies? What if the building code or regional bylaws required new homes to be pre-wired for solar panels and plumbed for greywater recycling? What if composting toilets were allowed in new construction as is the case in the Highlands District of Victoria? Other local government requirements for porous driveways, low flow fixtures, storm water infiltration galleries, cosmetic pesticide and herbicide bans could go a long way towards tipping the balance in favour of sustainability. While local government could and should play a huge role in guiding our communities into a sustainable future, it can’t happen without the federal and provincial governments in the game as well. Can you imagine

what would happen if the subsidies and tax breaks that were given to multinational mining, fossil fuel, fishing and forest companies were transferred to small business, public transit, local agriculture, alternative energy, green buildings, and electric vehicles? Those many tens of millions of dollars could create thousands of local jobs in sustainable industries while improving air quality and public health and reducing green house gas emissions. The BC government enacted the Water Sustainability Act in 2016, which among other things enshrines almost all fresh water bodies as public assets. This includes not just lakes, rivers and streams, but springs, many ponds and all freshwater aquifers. The act allows for the restriction of water consumption in times of scarcity or depletion and prioritizes types of usage. Human health and sanitation get first priority, environmental flows are second, while all other uses such as agricultural and industrial are allowed only after the first 2 needs have been met. This seems like a great start, and while water is a precious resource, perhaps we also need a Forest Sustainability Act BEFORE the last ancient forest is decimated, a Fish Sustainability Act BEFORE the last Spring Salmon tries to spawn in the Cowichan River, and a Farm Sustainability Act before Monsanto and big agriculture find a way to keep us from saving our seeds and growing our own local food. Many scientists believe that we are at a critical junction with as few as 10 years left to make some dramatic changes to the way we live, work, build, eat and travel. Every decision

Sustainability And You (and me too) at every level of government should be made based on how it moves us towards or away from a sustainable future. Decisions and policy should be looked at through a multi-generational lens that promotes sustainable initiatives and prohibits those that are not. Even 20 years ago we did not have the firm understanding of the impending species extinctions, ecosystem collapse, sea level rise, and climate change. But today, ignorance is no excuse. Our politicians at all levels need to demonstrate that they can lead us to a sustainable future, and they need to act quickly. Why not make the Cowichan Valley “Sustainability Central”? Why not have British Columbia and Canada lead the world as we once did. We all need to make changes if we want to see progress, but we need our leaders to lead, and we need them to make some hard choices. Sustainability isn’t for sissies; it’s for everyone!

David Slade Cobble Hill Well Driller and Grandfather

LOWER RIVER CLEANUP

9 C C C D a C

Man pulling child in tube. Photo by Susan Down

Lower Cowichan River Clean-up August 27 Registration 10am @ Little Big House (end of River Road), Cowichan Tribes, Duncan FREE

his soul satisfying annual event removes truck-loads of garbage from the iconic Cowichan River every year. Come help! No experience needed. Volunteers will be assigned to teams and routes during registration. Children under the age of 14 must be accompanied by an adult. Expect to be on the water from approximately 10:30am1pm. Prizes and a free BBQ lunch will be provided for all participants thanks to our local partners. New this year! Register a team in advance to be allocated a section of the river to clean with your team. What to Bring: Routes vary from shoreline strolls to hip-wading to deep water diving – please choose a

route that suits your abilities. Bring gloves if you have them (some supplied). Wear a hat and sturdy footwear as we always encounter glass and other sharp objects. Bring warm-up clothes for afterward. If you wish, bring a floatation device, dive or snorkel gear, and canoes or row boats to help float your treasures to the shore. We also need 6-8 pick-up trucks (with drivers) to take materials to Bing’s landfill afterwards. Sunday Aug 27th Register/start @ 10am / Wrap-up volunteer BBQ @1pm. Cowichan Tribes Little Big House, behind Cowichan Tribes gym (follow signs from Duncan) Hosted by the Cowichan Watershed Board in partnership with Cowichan Tribes. More info: Jill at jill@ cowichanwatershedboard. ca or visit the event page on Facebook: Lower Cowichan River Cleanup 2017

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eriscaping is really the art of watering your garden efficiently and effectively. As our summers grow longer, drier, and hotter, it’s only logical that we should re-think the garden and adapt to make better use of our water resources while working to maintain healthy garden and landscape spaces. There are four things to take into consideration when first planning your xeriscape: whether you really need that lawn, grouping plants appropriately, the use of trees, and soil preparation. Let’s face it, lawns are high maintenance and they don’t make the best use of landscaped areas. They require a lot of water in the summer months, regular

maintenance (such as mowing and weed eating), and the use of fertilizers, weed control, and thatching. If you have a large lawn, you might want to consider reducing its size and adding garden beds with drought tolerant plants or trees.

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When choosing your plants, it’s important to group them accordingly. Plants should be grouped together based on watering, light, soil, and drainage requirements. Trees should be located so that they shade your garden in the hottest part of a summer day (usually the west side of your garden), and should

b k G f t p

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W i d f t Y d o d p y

Good soil preparation is the key to success. For moisture retention add lots of organic material; mulch, mulch, and more mulch! Apply up to four inches, but do not cover trunks or stems. Mulching materials include: bark (fine for small plants, course for large plants), Sea Soil, compost, straw or sawdust, and grass clippings. When it comes to drainage, it’s important to find ways to direct excess moisture away from your beds, especially if they are in low-lying areas. You can use drain pipe or ditching to help. Try planting on slopes so excess water drains naturally, or choose plants that tolerate wet feet if you must plant in a low spot.

Finally, monitor soil moisture levels and time your watering to be the most effective. Watering in the morning is best as moisture has time to penetrate the soil and get to plants before evaporating. Watering in the afternoon can burn plants and will result in moisture loss due to evaporation. Learn to recognize drought symptoms in plants such as wilting, yellowing of inner leaves and loss of foliage, a blue tone to foliage, and reduced or compact growth. There are many drought tolerant plants to choose from, from shrubs to perennials, herbs and annuals, ground covers, bulbs, ferns and trees. The list is far too extensive to include here. However, knowledgable staff at your local nursery can steer

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be selected based on the kind of shade they provide. Gleditsia and Robinia, for example, create shade that still allows for light to penetrate their canopy.

The next step is planning efficient irrigation. It’s important to design a system that does not waste water. Plants should be watered deeply, not frequently. Drip and soaker systems are the most efficient, with hand watering coming in second. Overhead watering systems (such as sprinklers) are the least efficient, but they are suitable for some types of beds and lawns. If using an overhead system make sure droplet size and the coverage area are suited to both plants and space.

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twistedvinelandscaping@gmail.com you in the right direction and give you recommendations for what will work best for your property. By choosing the right plants and utilizing the most effective and appropriate watering system, you should

be able to reduce your watering needs and provide an environment that nourishes your plants for years to come. Tamu Miles, Novelist, blogger, and employee at Dinter Nursery

s we celebrate Canada’s 150th Anniversary we reflect on all our young country has accomplished during those years. Canada was founded on agriculture and over the past 150 years it has matured as a nation. We are recognized throughout the world as Peacekeepers. At home we are seen as a nation of can do, caring people who take pride in our country, our flag and our accomplishments. During this our 150th year of nationhood we hope you will join us in recognizing our great home! We encourage you to come

to the Fair with your family and friends. Get an early start with Rotary’s fantastic pancake breakfast then watch the Parade, take in the Opening Ceremonies and the decorated bike competition. Throughout the day we have stage entertainment, rides and activities for the children, antique farm equipment displays and demonstrations, livestock displays and judging, 4-H exhibits, commercial vendors, horse show, domestic science and other competitions and many food options. The Cobble Hill Fair is good family fun and rural charm at its best. Most important of all a day at the Fair is a great opportunity to meet your friends and neighbours and share conversations about times past while exchanging thoughts and dreams for the future of our Cobble Hill

4-H Sheep Project.

Memories of The Cobble Hill Fair community. Our Farmers Institute has served Cobble Hill and the South Cowichan community for more than a century. The work we do is for the community. We have no employees: we are a volunteer organization and we welcome your help and support. To join, attend one of our meetings or to find out more about us please email schfias.

secretary@gmail.com We invite and welcome your participation! Cobble Hill Fair, August 26 7am - 5pm Farmers Institute Watson Avenue, www.cobblehillfair.ca George Robbins, President Farmers’ Institute

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

t e

Young George Baird with his heifer

Memories of The Cobble Hill Fair

or me, it all started in 1952 when our family purchased the farm in Cobble Hill. In 1959 I became a member of the Cobble Hill Community Club and had Enid Tyerman and Mona Melrose as my leaders. I had a Jersey calf project that year and was very proud of my little heifer. After the 4-H year was over she went out to pasture and some hunter thought she was a deer and shot her in the hind quarter which paralyzed her: a few days later she died of the wound. This was quite devastating for a young 9 year old. As the years progressed, I

joined the Cowichan 4-H Holstein Club and a few years later joined the Cowichan 4-H Beef Club. After finishing high school I went on to Olds Agricultural College and then came back to the farm. Over all these years it was amazing to me how the Cobble Hill Fair operated with its all volunteer crew. I take a lot of pride in the Fair and want to see it carry on for many years so our children and grandchildren know the value of both agriculture and volunteering in our community. People come from far and wide to see our little Fair and everyone just loves it!

Our fair was evaluated a few years ago and the evaluator’s summary says it all… “This year’s Cobble Hill Fair and the theme was ‘Fill Your

Boots,’ and judging from the attendance, the fair is alive and well! The day of the fair started with a full pancake breakfast. At 9:45, a parade of pipers, decorated bicycles and antique vehicles made its way into the fairground. This was followed by an opening ceremony on the stage behind the Main Hall. In her welcoming remarks, then Regional Director Gerry Giles said it best: “The Cobble Hill Fair is a celebration of the lifestyle of the community.” The Cobble Hill Fair provides an excellent agricultural showcase of Cowichan. It is well-organized, educational and fun!” Submitted by George Baird, Cobble Hill Fair Chair

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Let yourself fall for ‘Talley’s Folly,’ at The Chemainus Theatre Festival

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ove is the perfect theme for The Chemainus Theatre Festival’s summer feature, Talley’s Folly, playing August 16th to 26th. The Pulitzer Prize-winning romantic comedy, by Lanford Wilson, follows unlikely sweethearts, Matt and Sally, as they try to (once and for all) settle their feelings for each other.

“Everything is beautiful ruined in this play,” says director, Amiel Gladstone. “The old crumbling boathouse, post-War America, and two characters struggling with who they are and who they can be together. It’s an honour to come to Chemainus for the first time to direct the first play the company every produced.”

The scene is the ornate, deserted Victorian boathouse on the Talley place in Lebanon, Missouri; the time 1944. Matt Friedman (played by Matthew Payne), has arrived to plead his love to Sally Talley (Heather Pattengale [Zacharias]), the susceptible but uncertain daughter of the family. Bookish, erudite, totally honest, and delightfully funny, Matt refuses to accept Sally’s rebuffs and her fears that her family would never approve of their marriage. Charming and indomitable, he gradually overcomes her defenses, telling his innermost secrets to his loved one and, in return, learning hers as well. Gradually he awakens Sally to the possibilities of a life together.

Talley’s Folly is a special presentation for The Chemainus Theatre Festival’s 25th Anniversary Season. Tickets are available for matinee and evening shows for two weeks only, August 16th to 26th. Call the Box Office at 1-800-565-7738, or visit chemainustheatrefestival.ca.

oneTree Wild Workshop

ive Edge Design are applying their oneTree concept to a wild weekend workshop in the woods. A total of eight workshops will teach participants how to make beautiful rustic garden furniture and boats while collaborating in a project to see how many things can be made from a single cedar tree that blew down in our community forest (Donated by North Cowichan). Participants can learn to build a bench, a rustic woven trellis, a charming arbor, an Adirondack style chair, planter boxes and even wooden boats. Everything that is made can be taken home to enjoy for years to come! To get even more value out of one tree The Cowichan Bay Maritime Centre will be offering two workshops; a cradle boat and a Coast Salish model canoe course, lead by master carver, Herb Rice. Building knowledge of trees and woodworking while enjoying the camaraderie of this oneTree experience. Participants will be able to camp (tent only) or drive in daily to participate in a wonderful forest setting.

â&#x20AC;&#x153;Scrapes, bruises, callouses and sore muscles are likely. Adventure, new friends and feeling of achievement guaranteed.â&#x20AC;? Says John Lore, owner of Live Edge Design Saturday 26th August - Sunday August 27th. Ticket price of $375 per person (children under 12, $50, children 12 - 16, $100). Includes materials, instructors, Saturday dinner and camping fees. The dug-out canoe workshop is $475 per person. Net proceeds to the Robert Bateman Centre & Live Edge Design oneTree 2017 exhibit and the Cowichan Bay Maritime Centre. Register online at www. liveedgedesign.com, by phone 250 748 0763, email donna@ liveedgedesign.com or stop by at 5195 Mearns RD (and take a tour of the studio at the same time).

All tools will be provided.

Chemainus Wednesday Farmers’ Market WEDNESDAYS Are you on the hunt for hand-made, home-baked, or locally grown goods? Located in the heart of Chemainus, this market runs every Wednesday during the summer season. Both seasonal and drop-in market vendors feature a wide variety of products-such as farm produce, flowers, baked goods, crafts, natural skincare products, First Nations Art, jewellery, and so much more. Local musical talents, accompanied by the stunning views surrounding Waterwheel Park, set the stage of this market. Make Chemainus Market Day part of your Wednesday routine! Chemainus Wednesday Farmers’ Market Waterwheel Park, 10am-3pm Every Wednesdayto September 20

2 pm. Come along rain or snow or shine and meet our farmers, gardeners, small-scale food processors, crafters, jewelers, food sellers, winemakers, butchers, bakers and candle-stick makers. With over 105 weekly vendor spaces and a “make it, bake it, grow it, sell it” philosophy, you will find a wide variety of local products to fulfill your needs. We also offer live music on the stage in Market Square each Saturday during the summer so customers can sing, dance and enjoy our local rock, country, jazz, marimba and concert bands. Duncan Farmers’ Market in downtown Duncan (look for the clock tower) 10am -2pm, every Saturday year round

Central Park Market lake Cowichan sUNDAYS

HONEYMOON BAY OUTDOOR Market saturdayS

DUNCAN Farmers’ Market DOWNTOWN DUNCAN SATURDAYS All year round, very Saturday Duncan Farmers’ Market is in operation until

candles, body care products, untique artwork, jewellery, knitting, glass work, woodwork , preserves, wild rice, spices, teas, crafts and wooden toys. We look forward to seeing you at the Honeymoon Bay Outdoor Rustic Market! Every Saturday, 10am-2pm, till October 7.

Everyone Welcome! Experience our little piece of paradise. We are known for our laid-back atmosphere. Come to Honeymoon Bay, it’s only a short drive west of Lake Cowichan. Our market has a variety of local products. Look for baked goodies, garden produce, plants,

The market is open to make it, bake it , grow it or create it vendors and home based businesses, like Arbonne and Tupperware etc. New vendors are always welcome. The Market has something for everyone, from handmade gifts for your family, like jewelry by Jane, or Sewing by Terri; to homemade jams, pickles, and baking; or Scentsy Candles, DoTerra Essential Oils and Sun Protective Clothing, just to name a few. There is also live music every Sunday, and a hot dog sale for a local non-profit organization. Central Park Market, Lake Cowichan 10am3pm every Sunday thru Labour Day.

COBBLE HILL FARMERS Market sUNDAYS This is the real deal, situated in the historic agricultural village of Cobble Hill. Local producers bring fresh veggies, cut flowers, berries, baked goods, local meats, preserves, famous pesto’s, beeswax candles, jewelry & art, hand-made clothing, bath and natural body care products. We have the friendliest of vendors including one

that makes the most authentic and delicious Mexican tacos you’ve ever had outside of Mexico, it’s worth coming just to try them! Great music, relaxed atmosphere, cool vibe…..come on down! The Cobble Hill Farmers’ Market, Cobble Hill Commons Park, Fisher Rd @ Watson Ave (opposite the Cobblestone Pub Every Sunday, 10am– 3pm until September 24.

BC Farmers’ Market Photo Contest BCAFM is running a summer #BCFarmersMarketRoadtrip contest, to encourage people to explore farmers’ markets on their summer travels! Take a #BCFarmersMarketRoadtrip this summer for a chance to win one of five $50 gift cards to your favourite BC farmers’ market! Simply follow BC Farmers’ Markets on Facebook or Instagram

+ share a photo of one of the 145+ eligible farmers’ markets with the hashtag by Aug. 18th. Weekly prizes will be drawn every Friday!

Honeymoon Bay

Saturdays 10am -2pm

Runs to October 7

OUTDOOR MARKET

Something for everyone!

Follow the signs to Honeymoon Bay, where we MAKE IT,

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Come celebrate our 11 th year as your favourite “Frontier Town” Market.

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y name is Zoe NorcrossNu’u. Like so many of us who live in coastal BC, I love the cliché big trees, open ocean waves, secret river swimming holes, and getting dirty on the farm with my daughters. I work as an engineering analyst, and my job is implementing the watershed protection plan for Comox Lake. Before moving to Vancouver Island, I was a coastal geologist on Maui. As part of my job I developed and taught a university course on sustainability-related issues and initiatives. During this process, I came to understand what a dire predicament we are facing in terms of climate change, population growth, and pressures on our natural resources. After recovering from the initial grief that followed this realization, my husband and I decided to move to a farm in the Comox Valley and try to live a lower impact lifestyle. After my husband’s sudden death in 2013, our sprawling 1970’s house felt too big for my two daughters and I, so I decided to renovate a character-filled (i.e. “decrepit”) 125-year-old farmhouse on my property and make it as cozy

and efficient as possible. We used natural building techniques including a chip-slip thermal mass exterior wall, a composting toilet and passive solar design. I had always been curious about solar power, and after learning from Viridian about the reasonable payback period, we decided to try to achieve net zero. “Viridan was called in early in the initial building design process to take part in a design charrette to examine the possibilities to make the renovation a net zero electricity project. The energy efficient design, selection of building materials and energy systems were a key part to making this possible. We created an energy model and built a solar electric system to match the energy load. We also left the possibility to expand the system if the energy calculations were off or if in reality more energy was used” recalls Kuan-Jian Foo of Viridian Energy Co op. Thirty panels (7.5kw) and one year after installation, my hydro bill netted out at about $-100, we did it! “It’s a testament to Zoe’s commitment to the environment and low energy living that this

Sharing Your Solar Story worked out so well. A 7.5kW system will generate about 8500kWh per year. The average house in BC uses 12,000kWh and on Vancouver Island upwards of 14,000kWh annually. This project is a great example of what can be done with our existing buildings and Zoe is a wonderful example of how we can all live in greater harmony with our planet.” Meanwhile on the other end of my farm where the heat lamps, freezers, livestock water de-icers, heat pumps and other necessary energy-hungry farm implements were running, several of my winter hydro bills had been over $1000. Buoyed by the recent net-zero success of my home, I decided to install a solar array on the south-facing roof of my barn. I called Viridian and they were onsite for a consult the next day. Two weeks and forty panels /13.4kw later (Viridian

is fast!), I’m hoping to at least get out of tier two on my farm hydro bills, and aiming for a 15-year payback period. It was definitely a tough decision to incur the debt for the solar arrays but the math suggests it’s a good investment. “Zoe is also part of a growing trend of our past clients that look to expand their power systems after getting used to them. Many others are adding on to their existing power systems and we are now building expandability into the systems we put in ensuring future add-ons are possible and cost effective. You can start small and grow as you need to.” It felt like the right thing to do and it feels great to be so much better insulated against changing hydro rates. My new favourite sound is the humming of the inverters on a sunny summer day! Minto Farm is powered by sunshine.

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

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M f w f s M m o a L I a T h r T t y m g a s i i s e A d D m h o L D t t w

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

DESIGNING

GREEN Let There Be Light

ith the summer months being so intense and bright all of a sudden, it reminds us of what we have missed all year .Are there ways to extend this vitamin D source for more reasons than just our health? Many clients have a fixation for skylights, some for high walls of glass, some are feverish about light tubes and some want total glass roofs. My experience has shown that most of these, if not properly oriented, can be expensive and uncomfortable mistakes. Let’s start with skylights. I advise as few as possible and orient them Northwards. There is simply too much heat buildup even when using reflective bronze glazings. They are also a huge hole in the roof of insulation over your heads. The roof is where most heat is lost and most is gained. Currently we call for a minimum R-40 of insulation so when a glass skylight is cut into this thermal blanket and is at maximum R-5, you have seriously compromised the efficiency of the home. And do remember, skylights do not work well after 4pm in December. For almost 14 or more hours a day, it is a black hole losing heat and a real obstacle for hanging efficient LED lights to live by. Don’t get me wrong, I love them in the right place and in the right proportions to the whole house.

Try to install more vertically if possible. This offers a nicer spread of light and less heat is pressurized to leave. You can keep them cleaner and add new options like power remote openers and sunshades like the ones Velux offers. They are simply state of art. This angle might also offer a view of something, not just the clouds, We see enough of those. If facing south or west, be sure to specify a bronze coating for UV reflection or multiple Low E coatings and Argon gas filled. High walls of glass are also dramatic so I hope there is something significant to look at besides the sun which if not shaded, will cook you out. Try to determine what your sight lines really are. In many cases, they are horizontal. So reasonably tall windows and glass doors will suffice with clerestory windows above. This is very practical especially if the eves are flat and project from the top of these windows. Nothing worse than staring out at wasp nests and cobwebs out the top of your windows because their height are not matched to your overhangs. Again, get the right glass coatings to match the orientation. Most good glass firms have qualified staff on hand to assist. Lite tubes seem to be coming back again. I thought someone would make them go away. They are far cheaper to install and far more efficient than skylights by a long shot on an inch by inch basis. I just have a thing about them architecturally. They simply look added on or something that was forgotten. So yes, I am a bit biased but there are better alternatives so I am happy with my bias. Lastly, we’ll discuss glass roofs. What a disaster from the get go. They barely even function outside. They are

The exterior glass awning brings light into all parts of this custom timber addition. Photo by Tony Colangelo

simply a bubble of often dirty glass or acrylic that overheats the home and in many cases introduces condensation problems beyond belief. You remember what I said about the warm blanket that R-40 (or better) insulation offers? Well these roofs are R-1 to R-5 at best and if improperly done, can rain on you all winter reminding you of what it is like to be a greenhouse tomato. One photo here is a hybrid we completed. It shows a glass roof but high overhead and only in the outside portion of the home so it helps to bring light into the main family room without compromising efficiency. And although it is hard to see, we bronzed the glass to cut down on the UV glare. One other great design trick, always have a window on

two walls in every room you occupy most. Other rooms can be in the middle of the house but two walls of glass gives a flood of light and removes the shadows.

Image David Coulson

For those long dark winters, be sure you have upgraded to the new slim profile LED pot lights. At just over ½” thick you can now toss them anywhere in the house, inside or out and they have a built in vapour seal to the ceiling and because they have metal housings, can qualify for installation in fire rated suite separations in many jurisdiction.

Teens learning to surf in Tofino

How Exploring And Being Active In The Outdoors Benefits Teenagers

eens in our current society are bombarded with news and media. It surrounds them giving them little space to simple BE, to OBSERVE, and to CONNECT on a HUMAN SOUL, and SPIRIT level. We hear almost daily of teens who separate themselves from this onslaught by using drugs, alcohol and other substances or means. In our media and gadget driven society young and old are losing touch with nature and the simple pleasures of simply BEING. In nature to BE CONNECTED is to experience oneself through the senses, in relationship to the natural surroundings and to oneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s fellow travellers, to hear the call of the eagle, and the chirp of the oyster catcher, and other birds; to feel the breeze on ones cheek, to see and hear the crashing waves on rocks, and the gentle lap of water on the shoreline. To notice

Open 9am to 9pm!

DAILY 1606 Joan Avenue 250-324-2249

natures rhythms as the tide rises and falls. By connecting, or reconnecting with nature and her rhymes, teens are provided with an opportunity to get off line and to discover a world through their senses, to challenge themselves through physical activities, and to develop lasting friendships, and experience a sense of community with their fellow travellers. Resent research shows that both activity, and being in nature help to reduce stress and depression, by triggering the release of endorphins, and that getting into natural settings helps increase the attention span and connection, especially important for children and teens with ADHD. Coastal Bliss Adventures Teens camps are designed to provide teens with an experience in nature that allows them to find a place of strength and solace in themselves, teaches them self reliance and teamwork, teaches a range of skills relative to the program, provides community and friendship, and over successive seasons to be part of our youth junior guide program. For information contact: Coastal Bliss Adventures 1 800 896 9525 or email coastalbliss@shaw.ca Submitted by Georgia Newsome

All new high efficiency machines! Subitted by Georgia Newsome DOUBLE, TRIPLE & QUAD front load washer extractors Oversize gas dryers

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

they bound about the stage, these talented and energetic actors show us there are no limits to their creativity. Fantastic storytellers, they maintain a paced rhythm throughout the show with some of them playing two, even three characters. Sarah Cashin who plays the cautious eldest sister Susan, does a remarkable switchover when playing the White Witch of Narnia. Her strength as a duel role actress shines in this play. Acting as the queen she is strong and commanding completely mesmerizing. It was very impressive. John Han’s execution of two demanding roles in the story as both Edmund and Aslan was equally impressive. Bravo to the whole cast for their performances. Our family enjoyed this show very much.

The Lion, The Witch & The Wardrobe

hat a delightful surprise to see Chemainus Festival Theatre present The Lion, Witch and The Wardrobe by CS Lewis. It is undesputedly one of the greatest adventure stories of all times. A surprise outing for my children, our tickets were for opening day. It was a full house with many eager families there to share the experience of the story of the special wardrobe that leads to the magical land of Narnia. Pre-show the performers, in character greeted the audience up and down the aisles. A lovely intimate touch that brought the story closer to the audience right from the start. The show opens with the four characters narrating key scenes as an introduction to the story. Peter, Lucy, Susan and Edmund set the location, the time, and the circumstance to what leads them to the grand wardrobe in the old stately house. As

To make the afternoon even more special we added on a surprise- lunch reservations at the Playbill Dining Room. The perfect answer to a show that ends at lunchtime. The children were thrilled with being escorted to their table to the backdrop of a live piano player. There were many child friendly items to choose from for lunch - salads, fresh veggies, warm buns and a selection of hot fish, meat and vegetarian entrees and of course the Playbill’s dessert table never disappoints! Fresh fruit salad, cakes, tarts, pies and more. Matinee shows run to August 13. chemainustheatrefestival.ca Submitted by Sheila Badman

SURF TOFINO CAMP Aug 28-30 • Age 12–18yrs (2 days surfing, 1 day exploring) $300 + gst

August Teen Camps

YOUTH JUAN DE FUCA HIKE August 20-25 Age 13–18yrs (6 days + prep day on Aug 19)

$650 + gst

Day Programs & Overnight Camps Space Available - Register Today! 250-715-0034 coastalbliss.ca

1 800 896 9525 coastalbliss@shaw.ca

Arts Canp 1: July 24-28 ages 5-10 Arts Camp 2: August 21-25 ages 5-10 $250 9am-3pm. Explore dance, music, drama, art, cooking, claywork, outdoor play and more. Dance Intensive 3-Day Workshop: August 16-18 ages 9-12(alllevels) and 13+ (experience required) $200 10am-2:30pm. Multiple dance styles,new choreography, audition skills, improve techinique, with guest instructors.

veryone looks forward to summer, don’t they? Great weather, social gatherings, wedding events, BBQ’s and hanging out with friends and family. Summers all about fun activities and being with others. It’s called socializing! But for some people this is their worst nightmare. Social anxiety affects many more people than one imagines. It can be debilitating, causing isolation, depression and loss of confidence and self worth. The stigma attached to any disorder that is related to mental and emotional health

has many people hiding their condition and suffering in silence with no resources to help them make a shift. Social anxiety is the fear of social situations that involve interaction with other people. It is the fear and anxiety of being negatively judged and evaluated by others which prevents them from engaging in social events. This is a pervasive disorder that can affect all areas of a person’s life. People with social anxiety are often perceived by others as being shy, quiet, backward, withdrawn, inhibited, unfriendly,

Dynamic Pathways

Faye Stefan MA, RCC, DHHP Registered Clinical Counsellor and Certified Homeopathic Practitioner

250-815-5029 Path to Wellness: Combining counselling with homeopathy for your emotional, mental, physical, and spiritual needs utilizing Heilkunst Sequential Timeline Therapy.

Dynamicpathways.biz | fstefan59@gmail.com

nervous, aloof, and disinterested. In actuality, these people really do wish to be involved and make friends and it is just their anxiety that holds them back from doing the things they really want to do. Wishing this condition away or trying to force one’s self to engage does not shift the often-debilitating anxiety the person experiences. There is help that can shift the physical, mental and emotional symptoms that hold someone back from enjoying a full social life. Working with a trained counsellor who understands social anxiety is the first step. There are many different therapy techniques that have been successfully implemented to assist those with social anxiety. Also, some clients respond well to different medication that can help ease the symptoms and break the anxiety cycle while they are working with a therapist.

Overcoming Social Anxiety: There is Hope!

As a Registered Clinical Counsellor and Homeopath my focus is to access the key issues and situations that started and maintains the path to social anxiety

by working through an individual’s timeline of events following Sequential Timeline Therapy. Along with this, I utilize Emotional Freedom Techniques, Cognitive Behavioral Therapy, Humanistic Person-Centered talk therapy and Homeopathic remedies to help manage, ease and extinguish the uncomfortable symptoms and thinking patterns. Faye Stefan is a Registered Clinical Counsellor and Certified Heilkunstler and Homeopath Dynamicpathways.biz

L W

BOAT BUILDING SUMMER CAMP

at the Cowichan Bay Maritime Centre

Build a small row boat from start to finish in our workshop!

August 14-18

9:00 am to 2:30 pm

Mornings will be spent building an elegant punt. Afternoons will include marine related activities. For children 10 - 14 years of age / $189 plus GST Register at 250.746.4955 www.classicboats.org

Living on The Wild Side

iving near Lake Cowichan, I often spend my summer mornings kayaking, my paddle slicing through the gentle waves, with the vista of the encircling mountains uplifting my spirit with transcendent wild moments. Sometimes I hike with friends along creeks, the ferns, moss and trees a lush verdant green. Shinrin-yoku, bathing in the forest, as the Japanese name this nature walk, means that cell phones are turned off and people are silent, breathing in the forest air and opening all their senses. One study showed forest-bathers had a 16 percent drop in cortisol, a stress hormone. In our busy lives, we need to disconnect to connect with our deeper selves, and walk on the wild side to bring ourselves back in balance. Just as we recharge our devices, we need to refresh ourselves by taking some wild time, whether that’s hiking with a group, kayaking, or taking a daily walk with our fur-buddies through the local park – unplugging and being in the natural moment.

Even a short time in nature can help children and adults reduce stress, increase their ability to focus, and improve their problem-solving skills. Adults with post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD) and children with attention deficit hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) show a reduction in symptoms after being outside. Kinesthetic leaners are in their natural element, learning by doing! Daily doses of Vitamin N(ature) are especially critical for the well-being of children. The best way to get children outside is to go with them on a regular forest, park or beach wander after dinner, for a weekend hike or on camping weekends. Regular natureconnecting routines, such as a magical nature sit spot, where we can meditate, open our senses with deer ears and owl eyes, sketch, or write down our feelings in a journal, will deepen the benefits of being in nature, according to Scott Sampson, in How to Raise a Wild Child. Parents who are camping with children or visiting the cottage can offer nature scavenger hunts and nature photography challenges, to engage young

minds, hearts and spirits. A key component is to listen to our children’s nature stories after their outdoor adventures: What happened out there today? and What was the coolest thing you discovered? With homework, cell phones and computer games, teens are sometimes harder to entice outside. Teens prefer challenging activities with their peers that push their limits with calculated risks while increasing their skill level, such as surfing, sailing or backpacking, often as part of a club. Youth who participated in challenging outdoor activities have reported increased selfconfidence and an increased capacity to deal with challenges in life. Our lives are over-scheduled.

Studies report that children now spend only four minutes to half an hour outside each day, compared to a daily average of seven hours of screen time. Less free playing outside after school has resulted in increased rates of diabetes and obesity for children. More than 10 percent of children are now diagnosed with ADHD, and these children need to run and play outside. We adults also need to schedule regular outdoor play sessions into our calendars to relax and rejuvenate ourselves. So, go outside and play today!

Amanda Griesbach, BA, MA, an artist and educator, facilitates art and nature programs for children and adults.

he world has changed on so many radical levels in the past few decades, it’s a challenge to make sense of it, let alone keep up with the constant shifts in technology.

“We rented a farm not too far from my parents’ place, and I immersed myself in the plants - I’d already been working with essential oils for some years and Ginger Daddy’s sensitive skin meant potentially the same for our baby. There was literally nothing on the market that I could feel secure about, especially because for the most part, there were no ingredients listed on labels. Most people didn’t even consider what they were putting on their skin - but I had to.”

But some people still follow the rhythm of the seasons and the plants, while also adapting to the inexorable pull of the cyberworld. One of these is Cowichan’s Beth Lischeron, owner of Dragonfly Dreaming Organics.

The year was 1995. The Internet was in its infancy. The very concept of genuinely ‘natural skin care’ had even less curb appeal than ‘organic veggies’ and Cowichan had none of the ‘Provence-cachet’ that was to come...

“Dragonfly Dreaming really began before I returned to Canada after a decade living in Japan. I had an amazing career there as a broadcast journalist with NHK, freelance narrator and writer. Eventually, a lot of my focus and energy went into ecological and Indigenous rights issues - including hosting and translating for David Suzuki on his early trips to Japan, and in 1990, co-ordinating a world tour of a group of Indigenous community leaders we smuggled out of Borneo. Those were intense years, for sure...” But big changes were on the way, as Lischeron was smitten by a Scottish permaculture farmer while spending the summer on a research trip to southern France... and somehow, landed on her feet with Ginger Hubby (soon to be daddy) here in Cowichan.

“I began to work with the herbs I was growing, the forest plants I was wildcrafing and the essential oils I was bringing in from friends in Hawaii, Australia, France... I studied with ethnobotanists, herbalists, First Nations Elder healers and of course all this became part of my past experience, jungle trekking in Borneo, bushwalking in Australia, foraging in the countryside with Japanese friends... it all began to blend together and become a cohesive process. The ‘need-based’ part came first, as it was really important for me to come up with formulations that Ginger Daddy could use without reacting to anything in them. That formed the baseline in many ways - no common allergens - no nut oils, animal oils, synthetic fragrance, chemicals, preservatives...

Pace of Change, Change of Pace

and very careful selection of essential oils, knowing how phenomenally concentrated they are.” This year, Dragonfly Dreaming Organics is celebrating its twenty-second anniversary (and the 21st birthday of Ginger Baby). “I used to say I had twins - one to chase around after, the other to carry in boxes” quips Beth, “but both the child and the company have grown up during the precise era of the Internet - all Millenial babies!” Beth’s nickname - Dragonfly - is a symbol of transformation and adaptability in many cultures. Recently, she’s launched in the UK through Chandni Chowk (chandnichowk.uk) which imports fair trade artisan textiles from India. “It’s a perfect fit for us. My dear friend Rosalind (from theatre days in England when we were teens) took off to explore India 40 years ago; I left for Japan not long after that. Now here we find ourselves, reconnected through Facebook of all things but with very similar lives and work... crazy but magical! So now we’re full circle back to England!”. Dragonfly Dreaming has been flitting about for 22 years now, adapting and growing stronger with the changes the Millenia

has brought about. “I’m pretty humble so bragging’s not my thing - I break turf, plant seeds and move on! But it’s nice to know that my work is actually helping people and improving their lives. To me, that counts.... and the thousands of jars of Baby’s Bum I have literally grown, created, infused and distilled over the past decades? Pretty much says it all! We’re embracing the changes, keeping up with the pace... perhaps planting us in Cowichan was the change of pace that saved my sanity!”. Upcoming Events: August 12&13 Dragonfly Dreaming Organics Pop-Up Garden Party 10 -2 pm, 3616 Garland Ave, Cobble Hill Village dragonflydreaming.com August 26 Cobble Hill Fair www.dragonflydreaming.com

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

Call or Email

First appointment free!

David Yaeger

Celebrating 20+2 years of organics - we’ve been making it since 1995!

Certiﬁed Emotion Code Practitioner 250-597-3686 davidyaeger650@gmail.com

p s p c h r a t

W ( h a e W l e f c d m y t d f a

I m i s s T s t o

What an amazing opportunity to take a step back in time, experience emotional and physical clearings that perpetuate you beyond limiting beliefs and energy of your past.

Freeing Yourself With Past Regression Heather Lauzon Intuitive Energy Healer Clinical Hypnotherapist Quantum Touch Practitioner

he idea of past lives may be a fairly new concept for some people to understand. There are several different theories about past lives, this however does not change the fact that many people have experienced instantaneous relief emotionally and physically after exploring and healing through past life experiences. Why is this? Well, some believe (myself included) that our souls have experienced many lifetimes and in each lifetime we gather experiences and knowledge. When we incarnate into a new life we bring with us stored energy, knowledge and beliefs forward. In some cases these can be very supportive and delightful – such as being able to master an instrument the moment you pick it up. In other cases these past life influences can be debilitating- creating unexplained fears, phobias and physical ailments. It is believed that past life memories and knowledge is stored deep within our subconscious minds and more specifically the primitive mind. This information can be accessed sometimes through meditation, through energy healing sessions or in a regression using hypnosis.

To think we may have been here before multiple times may feel exciting or overwhelming. Depending on where you are at it can be completely freeing or entice you to want to bang your head against the wall in disbelief that you came here to do this again…lol. There are several books about past lives. I recall almost 8 years ago now a friend mentioned a book she was reading “ Many Lives, Many Masters” – there was this deep pull for me to read it. Through each page, I could feel my soul rejoicing as part of what I had always known was being validated. This wasn’t my first time having a human experience!

INTUITIVE HEALER • Certified Clinical

Hypnotherapist • Certified Quantum Touch Practitioner

HEATHER LAUZON

250-732-1405

www.emeraldhealingplace.com

Throughout my life I have had multiple experiences of meeting people for the first time that felt like anything but the first time. In many of those “first” encounters I had the sense of who they had been to me in another lifetime. They were more like being reunited than a first encounter. In my past life explorations and healings, I was shown how I have shared lives before with them and how we are continuing in similar patterns of the past. By exploring my past lives, I myself have healed emotional patterns and turmoil, chronic pain and the lack of mobility in different areas of my body that could not be medically explained. As well as fears and phobias that came on at different stages in my young adult life that had no relevance to this life experience. I was also able to release an unexplained pattern and fear that developed very shortly after I had moved in with my husband. Every night for close to 14years when we could go to bed I would have to get up and check to confirm that all the doors and windows were locked. I always felt that someone was going to come and harm him, specifically him. Sometimes I

would get out of bed 2-3 times to do the rounds confirming that they were all secure. It wasn’t until I was shown the past life that we had shared. Where he had been killed centuries ago in the night while I was sleeping. In this lifetime I recall holding him as he passed and shared with me that I did not have to fear anymore that he had paid the debt with his life. That experience and message from him freed me from the fear and energy of that lifetime. Instantly in that moment I felt my body become lighter, releasing me from the pattern and belief in this lifetime. Truly amazing!

So whether you would like to support yourself in healing beyond the barriers of your past life experiences or just explore the possibilities of what once was. What we do for ourselves today sets us free in this lifetime and our future lives. What to expect? Past life regressions are longer than regular hypnotherapy sessions generally around 2 hours. Of course as with anything results and experiences may vary. Sessions are generally recorded. www.emeraldhealingplace.com

A Magical Moonlight Paddle in Maple Bay

eading out for a Moonlight Paddle is an absolute must when you are in the Cowichan Valley area. Maple Bay is a great spot to launch from and watch the moon rise over Saltspring Island and then it slowly bathes its moonlight across Maple Bay. When in a kayak you silently slip through the water and can float over shallow reefs and rocky ledges where you can catch glimpses of the magical dance of bioluminescence. You can see a sparkling trail of light as it is agitated by passing fish, your paddle dipping into the water or your hand teasing the waves… is alights with a simmering blueish glow

for a brief second or two. Bioluminescence is the production of light by a living organism and the most commonly seen bioluminescence in Maple Bay is from single cell marine plankton. This Bioluminescent plankton occurs in all the world’s oceans and is best seen seen in late spring and during the summer months when there is more sunlight which enables the plankton to store this energy which it then release as the telltale Bioluminescent magical glow. Come and experience the magic for yourself on a Full Moon Tour or Bioluminescence Tour with Wilderness Kayaking! No experience necessary. Wilderness Kayaking

COWICHAN BAY KAYAKING Canoeing Adventures

offers two types of late evening paddles: Moonlight kayak tours occur the three days around the full moon (August 5, 6, 7). New Moon Bioluminescence Kayak tours occur during the dark phase of the New Moon and this allows for greater viewing of the bioluminescence (August 20) Pre-booking is necessary these tours do fill up quickly. 2507460151. www.wilderness-kayaking. com Nancy is co-owner of Wilderness Kayaking Co. and has been leading kayak tours for 25+ years.

ADVENTURE CENTRE All Levels of Paddling • Day Trips • Hiking • Overnight Tours • Lessons • Ladies Only Tours • Birding and more!

Big Tree Hikes West Coast Trail

Youth Programs

Beginner Tours

cowichanbaykayaking.com 250-597-3031 coastalbliss@shaw.ca 54

r s a V a W a t b a i b d v w s t w b 2 w o g f T o k s t d h w C a p d i t

F i T w v L S t t h I A

Wilderness Kayaking

Nitinat Lake - A Hidden Paradise!

LESSONS • TOURS • RENTALS • SALES

www.wilderness-kayaking.com

Summer Youth Programs From Maple Bay • KAYAK KIDS - INTRODUCTION TO SEA KAYAKING AUGUST 7 - 10, 21 - 24 Sessions Monday - Thursday 9am - 1pm

itinat Lake is tucked away in the coastal temperate rain forest. It has the perfect setup for a phenomenon called a thermal wind. The Cowichan Valley warms up as summer approaches and that hot air rises. When that hot air rises it creates a low pressure in the area, while the Pacific Ocean creates vast blanket of cool high pressure air along the coastline. Nitinat lake is situated in the perfect spot between those 2 air masses. The deep cut long Fjord induces a venturi effect and accelerates the winds! A typical day at Nitinat starts with glassy flat waters in the morning. The wind builds with the heat of the day and by 1PM the wind is generally 20kn(37km/hr) or more, if the weather is setup is optimal we often get 30+kn(55.5km/hr). A good summer will blow 20+kn for 25 or more days a month! These stats match up with and often exceed some of the best kiting destinations in the world so we are very lucky to have this in our back yard. Not only do we have a lot of wind, we have STEADY wind or CLEAN wind as kiters would call it. Clean wind is like driving on a highway, dirty wind is like pot hole filled dirt road. Many destinations get a lot of wind but it is dirty wind so much tougher to deal with. For the beginner Nitinat Lake is the perfect setup for learning. The consistent steady predictable winds primarily make for a very safe learning environment. Learners start their lessons with Strong kiteboarding early while the winds are lighter. After taking their ground safety class they head out onto the water with an IKO(International Kiteboarding Association) trained instructor

on a Seadoo. With the closed body of water and a professional instructor by their side they learn at the bottom of the lake where there is lots of space. They are then driven back up to the launch to take a break and get ready for the next session. Best setup in British Columbia, if not all of Canada for learning! For the intermediate rider Nitinat offers great progression conditions for learning that new move. With 6-8hrs of wind daily and often 10 or more there is plenty of time ride, relax and take it at your own pace. Very friendly and knowledgeable kiters are plentiful here and they are all willing to help you out with what you need. Very communal learning environment with lots of comradery. For the advanced rider Nitinat offers what we would call NUKERS! If the Cowichan Valley is heating up to the mid 30Cs and Tofino is at 15 and foggy... then it is game on! Wind speeds can exceed 35kn(65km/ hr) and things get exciting fast. Waves build for great ramps and jumps can exceed 40 feet for the better riders. This is a lot of fun for the pro riders and great for the beginner and intermediates to watch! Roberto from Strong kiteboarding says “ I moved here from Nova Scotia last year to teach kiteboarding. After arriving I don’t think I will ever leave! I taught more than 50 students last year and learned how to jump big for myself! Every day you get another little trick figured out!” Nitinat Lake offers a campground right on site so you can sleep

• YOUTH TOUR N’ LEARN - GULF ISLANDS - 3 DAY OVERNIGHT TRIP AUGUST 18- 20 AGES 13 - 16 • YOUTH DAY TRIP ADVENTURES - LEAD BY EXPERIENCED GUIDES - AUGUST 11, 25 FRIDAYS 9am - 3pm ALSO OFFERING: kayaking birthday parties, harbour tours, moonlight paddles, day tours, multi day tours, family paddles, sup rentals, double kayaks, single kayaks, rentals, sales, lessons and more. Call for more info or to reserve.

6683 Beaumont Ave, Maple Bay 250 746-0151 Cell: 250 715 7482

info@wilderness-kayaking.com

only meters from where you will be kiting the next day. The site is a basic one with running water and outhouses. There are many sites with space for RVs and trailers. It is first come first served booking but there is always open space on the beach. It is a very safe family and dog friendly campsite where kids can roam free and there is no stranger danger. There is a small motel in and store located about 1.5km from the campsite if camping is not your forte. The site is pack in, pack out so remember to leave things the way you found them. Nitinat Lake is a very special place that we are lucky enough to have so close. Kiteboarders are a tight nit community and a very welcoming group. As long as you are friendly then you will fit in just fine! Many of the riders here head down to La Ventana in the southern Baja Peninsula to chase the wind over the winter so be ready for some familiar faces if you head that way. Mark has been coming to Nitinat for 15 years and says “ This place is the best place to kite in the world! My family and friends

love coming here and they don’t even kiteboard.” NItinat lake is very easy to get to and just about any vehicle can get there. You drive to Lake Cowichan then take either the north or south shore road to the west end of the lake. Once at the end of the lake you continue for about another 30-45 mins along the main road. There is only 1 turn that needs to be made at a major T junction and it is well signed, Expect about 1.5-2 hrs travel time from Duncan with about 50km of dirt road in various condition. To get yourself started into the great world of kiteboarding you can contact Marty with Strong Kiteboarding at Strongkiteboarding@hotmail. com 250 813 0035 www. strongkiteboarding.com Submitted by Marty Dovich, Strong Kiteboarding

COWICHAN BUSINESS FOR BUSINESS

Sands Funeral Chapel

Cremation & Reception Centre-Duncan by Arbor Memorial

Air Conditioners and Humidity

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

#301- 394 Duncan Street Duncan, BC V9L 3W4 250 748-1426 Fax: 250 748 2805 PO Box 1396 #101-626 First Avenue Ladysmith, BC V9G 1A9 250 245-1429 Fax: 250 245-1421 1-800-818-5703 www.palmerleslie.ca

Spreading joy Order your Canada 150 gifts now! and appreciation and pride in our quality Canadian made gifts for employee recognition, client appreciation or just something beautiful for yourself.

• Corporate Events • VIP’s • Special Occasions • Employee Recognition

www.amemorablecanadiangift.com

e love it when we are comfortable in our homes. There is no feeling like coming home after a long hard day to a house that is cool and comfortable. The idea behind air conditioning is pretty straightforward. Remove the heat from a confined area while removing the moisture at the same time. When the heat and relative humidity levels are addressed, this makes for a high level of comfort. When humidity isn’t accounted for the result can be quite uncomfortable or even unhealthy. Proper moisture levels At 360 Comfort Systems, our guidelines for cooling temperature and relative humidity are 24 degrees Celsius and 50% RH. This creates an environment that is comfortable and refreshing. Some may look at 24C and says “that’s too hot” and for some it might be but for the average majority, 24C is quite comfortable as long as the humidity is in-check. When the relative humidity is 50% or lower, our body’s natural process of cooling through perspiration is aiding by this low humidity level and since it is easier for our bodies to get rid of heat we feel comfortable at a temperature that we would otherwise be uncomfortable. Low humidity In environments with low humidity it is very easy for our bodies to give up heat and moisture but this isn’t necessarily a good thing. We can get dehydrated very easily which in turn can cause our bodies to stop making the mucus that keeps our nasal passages and sinuses moist. When these get dry, we are more susceptible to allergens, bacteria, viruses and other airborne debris which is normally caught and expelled by this mucus. High Humidity In environments with high humidity it is much more likely for mold and bacteria etc. to flourish. Mold and bacteria

tend to love environments that are warm and moist and microorganisms that thrive in humid conditions are of special concern as they can help cause allergies and asthmatic conditions. One study has shown that dust mite populations have stopped growing and died out when moisture in the air gets below 60% relative humidity. This is great news for those who suffer from asthma. Proper sizing of an air conditioner. Once in a while we get calls from customers wanting us to install an air conditioner or heat pump that they either purchased from an online seller or a used unit from an internet site. Although this might save money in the short term, it will most likely not serve the needs for this client in the long term. There is an organization known as ACCA and they have a process known as Manual J for proper heat load and cooling load sizing. When using these formulas we know that the air conditioner or heat pump is properly sized for the heat loss and heat gain of that particular building. Since no two houses are exactly alike this should be done every time a new cooling system is considered. The results of not doing this critical step will very likely result in high humidity or low humidity conditions and, as mentioned above, you could be sacrificing comfort and maybe even your health. If you would like an in-home consult from our Comfort Adviser or have further questions regarding your Air Conditioning please call the office at 250-597-2653.

Reed Gary, Owner 360 Comfort Systems Inc. Proudly Providing Comfort with Integrity

Green Living

Think Like A Squirrel

I know its difficult in the middle of summer to think about winter however, its important to think like a squirrel. Squirrels plan ahead to make sure by the end of summer they’ll have something yummy to eat throughout the winter. We are so very fortunate to live in an abundant valley where its possible to grow a wide variety of food or buy from local farmers who grow for our benefit. I recently had a visitor staying with me from Montana and she was in awe of the amount of locally grown food. There are many ways to store food long term. From canning, fermenting, freezing, dehydrating etc. I love to take the kids berry picking and we freeze trays of fresh berries to enjoy in smoothies throughout the winter months. Tomatoes are easily grown even if you don’t have much space, so yummy enjoyed fresh off the vine and easy to can and store for sauces later. Kale grows just about year round here and is a favorite to freeze for later and its easy to sneak into soups and stews, the kids will never know!

I remember my grandmother’s garden growing up, it took up a large portion of her backyard and I got many a tummy ache feasting on fresh peas and crab apples that I would indulge in. She also had a large root cellar in the basement that we would draw from year round, a practice which for either space or lifestyle changes seems to have gone by the wayside but certainly worth reviving. Of course we can get almost any kind of fruit or vegetable all year round but considering the distance out of season crops travel and the carbon footprint associated it makes sense to think like a squirrel and burry a few nuts so to speak. Do yourself a favour, spent a little time searching out what is easily available locally and how to store it. Support local farmers, save money, feel good about the nutritional value your eating and feeding your family, all while decreasing your carbon footprint . It’s a win-win. Tracey Hanson local mompreneur and owner/operator Clean Choice EcoFriendly Cleaning Services cleanchoicecleaners. com

250 715 6174 Rob’s Lighthouse Eatery & Art Gallery Fresh, friendly, affordable and pet-friendly! OpenED Daily 8am-6pm Heated patio or take out

*Award Winning Chowder* Grilled Seasoned Fish & Chicken Great Burgers, Fries, Wraps & More!

Dine In on our heated patio or Take Out! Cowichan Bay

Valleyview

Centre

So much to oﬀer!

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

Food

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

Cure Artisan Meat & Cheese 250 929-2873 Charcuterie, Cheese House Made Pates Healthcare Cobble Hill Dental 250-743-6698 Friendly, Family Practice

We Welcome New Patients!

HOLISTIC BLENDS FOR DOGS & CATS HEALTH & VITALITY — Sea Greens Powder, Bee Pollen, L-Lysine & Cranberry, Vitamins & Minerals, Flax Seed Oil, Wild Salmon Oil, Food Booster JOINT & MOBILITY — Yucca Schididera, Glucosamine Hcl Complex, Herbal Calmer DIGESTION — Fresh Licks, Probiotics & Enzymes, Natural Wormer PROUDLY CANADIAN! A family owned Canadian company, committed to quality, value and service that comes from the heart.

Come on in and ask us for a FREE sample of grain free dog food to try at home!

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4-180 Central Avenue, Village Green Mall Duncan

250 748 4421

Lucky Dogs...

How to wash a dog…

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

thought dog washing was intuitive, but after helping hundreds of newbies at Lucky Dog U-Bath, I realize it isn’t. So, let me give you the recipe. Attach the dog somehow to a sturdy object. A leash to a picnic table for big guys outside works well. There are neck loops on a suction cup available online (Ren’s Pets) that can hold your victim in the tub or sink. Remove any mats before you start then soak the dog fully with warm water; get right down to the skin all over. Use a good dog shampoo. Human shampoo has the wrong pH and can irritate the skin. Never use dish soap or baby shampoo. Flea shampoos aren’t necessary. Dilute the shampoo in a larger bottle. This helps it get into the coat easier. Use lots!! Get the shampoo everywhere… yes, even there. Really scrub it down to the skin. Wash the leather inside the ears. Wash between the toes, wash the arm pits and the pants. If your fella has fleas, leave the shampoo on for five minutes; this will suffocate the little jerks. Rinse thoroughly and rinse some more. Use a conditioner if you like at this point and rinse it off really well also. You can now dry

with a towel, or for longer coats or heavy shedders, use a blaster. A blaster uses forced air to blow out water and loose hair. It’s easier on your dog’s skin and your arms than brushing. It does a better job and you can see the skin while you’re blasting a thick coat. This is when I see hot spots and ticks. A blaster is a great tool for heavy coated dogs that you can use between baths on a dry dog to blow out dirt, hair, spear grass, and dander. I recommend using a face mask for yourself to avoid inhaling this stuff when you dry blast. Blasters are available at Ren’s Pets. Don’t bother brushing your dog until she is fully dry. The moisture causes friction in the hair and you will be yanking on the skin and working too hard to get little done. Get the right brush for your dog. It should get to the skin with proper technique. Clean the ears with a damp washcloth and trim the toenails. Done! Or you can drop by Lucky Dog U-Bath where we have all the equipment and expertise to get the job done easily. You can wash your own dog or drop your dog off and we’ll do it for you. Best of all, you get to leave the mess with us.

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

co Lucky Dog U Bath

What do Horses and Kids have in Common?

earning and Behaviour are fascinating topics for me. There are many scientific disciplines dedicated to understanding the behaviour puzzle. My continuing educational focus is on the science of Applied Behaviour Analy-sis that simply states; behaviour is a function of it’s immediate conse-quence and learning is largely determined by external, environmental influ-ences, heavily emphasized in early life experience. In other words, how we learn in childhood will shape our adult patterns of behaviour. The focus of ABA is the implementation of principles and methods to solve practical be-haviour issues and to positively reinforce learning experience. How does this relate to Horses and Kids? They both learn and respond to consequences exactly the same way!! The hallmark of ABA are the ABC’s. A) Antecedents are the stimuli, events and conditions that occur immedi-ately before a B) behaviour occurs. C) the consequences that occur immediately after the behaviour will determine the frequency of future behaviours. If I set up a positive, safe, playful and enriching learning environment, my student is likely to be more engaged, enthused, motivated and focused on learning. If I set up an environment that is

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confusing, lacks sup-port/ reward/reinforcement, clarity or encouragement my learner is likely to become frustrated, angry, begins to avoid me or even escape the environ-ment. We live in a world that generally focuses too much on negative conse-quences to influence behaviour. This is particularly true of negative behav-iour we want to decrease or eliminate and often resort to forms of punishment in order to influence that desired behaviour. Recognizing and reinforcing positive behaviour (no matter how small) will go much further than scolding, nagging, and yelling at kids. Scratching, of-fering small food rewards and keeping training sessions brief will go much further than applying constant pressure, using whips and losing patience with horses. In both cases positive reinforcement will activate the ‘feel good’ hormones, encouraging our learners to participate more, give their best effort and feel good about themselves in the process. It’s a win win, because it also activates the educators ‘feel good’ hormones! Everyone feels supported, heard, valued, seen and empowered. The Science and Practice of behaviour change requires that we give our learners CHOICE over their learning environment to set them up for suc-cess. A

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Life and Leadership Coaching… Inspired by Horses • Experiential Learning with Horses • Corporate and Personal Programming • Developing Horsemanship Skills • Centered Riding Lessons • Equine Behaviour Consulting • Mindfulness Retreats • Youth and Adults

www.spiritgate.ca michelle@spiritgate.ca 250 737 1484 positive learning environment develops a lateral thinker; creative independent thinking and great problem solving skills. Positive Reinforcement supports our Horses and Kids to learn faster, stay focused and engaged longer, activates their sense of play and retains learning. Isn’t this what we want for all of our

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relationships?

Michelle Atterby facilitates experiential learning and horsemanship programs for youth and adults www.spiritgate.ca

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eep in the forest the sounds of nature and quietude will be heard during the Tien Tai Seven Day Silent Retreat; August 7th - 12th. This special week long Annual Retreat is held at the Nichiren Peace Center, #4 - 3904 Johnny Bear Rd. Tien Tai Chi’I was a philosopher and meditation Master Teacher to Emperors of China in the 500 c.e. era of our times. His historical school continues to be a guide to all who follow One Buddha - Many Traditions. This of course follows the beautiful “sounds of silence” that individuals share during this wonderful Retreat.

The Sounds of Silence

This Retreat offers everyone the opportunity to assist with work share and volunteer offerings to assist in finding enlightenment. As the quote goes: “Seeking enlightenment we chop wood, harvests in the garden and haul water; becoming enlightened, One chops wood, harvests in the garden and hauls water.” This Retreat offers everyone the opportunity to participate for one day, several days or for the entire week. People and come and go at the end of each day. There are also two Retreat Huts and a Community Kitchen for those staying.

EARTH MEDICINE GARDENS Creating medicinal gardens for your health needs

N. Belarbi - Herbalist, Ethnobotanist & C.A Linklater - Horticulturalist, Garden Designer

250-709-7114

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The Tien-Tai [ Heavenly Terrace ] school was founded during the Suei dynasty (589-618) As a Priest of Kwo-Chin [Heavenly Terrace] Temple, in China, TienTai spent the majority of his life in scholarly research, teaching and meditation.His three principal works are The Profound Meaning of Lotus Sutra, using the title of Lotus Sutra as the base to explore the true meaning of the Buddha’s teaching. The second big book is The Commentary of Lotus Sutra and the third major work is the Maha [Greater] Samatha Vippasyana, describing the ChihKuan techniques to achieve the Three Virtues of Nirvana, namely

true Dharma body (dharmakaya), wisdom of enlightenment, and liberation froam suffering. His other works include commentaries on five other Mahayana Sutras. It represents an attempt to systematize the teachings of the Buddha, to resolve different understanding of teachings arising within the Buddha Dharma and to provide ways of solving metaphysical problems. In order to accomplish these objectives, Chih-I classified the teaching of the Buddha into “five periods and eight teachings.” During this Retreat everyone will have an opportunity to sit in the quiet, to listen to the sounds of the forest, to share meals and time in silence. To learn and practice Meditation techniques. And to those able and willing to help with the ongoing Community Garden and building of Meditation Trails through the forest above our Heritage Cowichan River. The suggested donation is $50 a Day or by donation according to ones ability and value received. For registration, to answer your questions Txt./Phone: 250. 710. 7594 Nichiren Buddha Society® Nichiren Peace Center Vancouver Island Retreat Garden

Benefits of Prenatal Yoga

racticing prenatal yoga has a vast number of benefits and can help to support women throughout their pregnancy as well as their birth. Physically, prenatal yoga allows us to stretch and strengthen muscles which can aid in the relief of ailments such as lower back pain, sciatica and other discomforts associated with pregnancy. Creating awareness of the pelvic floor is another huge benefit for women as it is under a greater strain during this time. We practice techniques that not only help it strengthen but also to relax. Maintaining a healthy, functioning pelvic floor can help us to avoid common dysfunctions such as incontinence in pregnancy as well as postpartum. Mentally, prenatal yoga gives

us tools to deal with stresses & worries that may arise during this time in a woman’s life. Taking time for self care from our busy lives can help us slow down and connect with our baby. In addition, coming to a prenatal yoga class can be a great way of meeting other expectant moms. A community of mom friends can be a fantastic support system during pregnancy and possibly even more important after we give birth. Breath awareness may be one of the most beneficial aspects of a prenatal yoga practice. Regulating the breath helps to activate our body’s relaxation response. This can help improve digestion and sleep, as well as aid in a healthy immune system. All of which can be common concerns

during pregnancy. While we always include relaxing and restorative poses, practicing breathing techniques during challenging postures can also help prepare us for the birthing process. By doing a yoga posture that may feel more physically challenging, we can practice breathing through intense physical sensations and emotions that may come up during labour and birth. Holding your breath, which a lot of us do unconsciously, can cause tension in the body. Continuing to breath and using other tools we learn in prenatal yoga such as working with sound, visualisations and affirmations can help our bodies and minds to stay relaxed even when things feel

challenging and intense. Since having my own daughter, helping women in both pregnancy and postpartum through yoga has become my passion. Please feel free to contact me if you have any questions or if I can support you in any way. Diane is a mother and long time yoga teacher. www. dianebarryoga.ca

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Sativas vs Indicas; Whats the Difference?

annabis legalization is coming to Canada. That means that there are lots of Canadians with lots of questions, so let’s talk about this. Not to glamorize or overly normalize cannabis consumption but because knowledge is power and education is the key to harm reduction. Prohibition failed at preventing illicit drug use, perhaps a better understanding of what cannabis is will help

us be better equipped to make smart decisions going forward. One of the first questions people ask about cannabis is what’s the difference between Indica and Sativa, so let’s explore this a little bit. Sativas vs Indicas; What’s the Difference? There are three types of cannabis plant: Indica, Sativa and Ruderalis. For this piece we are going to focus on Indica, Sativa and hybrid varietals simply because Ruderalis plant isn’t particularly psychotropic and is used primarily by growers as a source of additional genetic material.

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Physical Differences:

What Are Hybrids?

Sativas look different than Indicas when growing. A Sativa will grow to height of sometimes 15 feet and the leaves will be longer and narrower. By contrast an Indica is usually a shorter plant that reaches about 1-2 metres in height with thick, lush green leaves. Indica strains, when they begin to flower have buds that are stickier than sativa flowers.

Hybrids are exactly what they sound like. They are cross bred strains that have been picked for specific qualities and/or to diminish other aspects. An example of this would be if a breeder wanted to reduce the possibility of anxiety with a Sativa. She might then add Indica to a pure Sativa.

How Do They Affect Us? Cannabis Sativa leaves the user feeling energetic and creative, generally speaking. Sativa strains have been described as having a stimulating effect not unlike a cup of coffee. They are a popular choice for daytime use. Medicinally they are often used to combat the symptoms of some mood disorders including depression, nausea (especially helpful for cancer patients undergoing chemotherapy), appetite stimulation, migraines and chronic pain. Cannabis Indica has a much more cerebral effect. These strains are the ones that will leave the user feeling sedated and what we often think of as “stoned”. Indica strains are good choices for those who are suffering from muscle tension, tremors and spasms, insomnia, anxiety, arthritis and swelling of the joints.

Its important to note that most strains today are a hybrid of some sort and this is primarily why we are seeing strains on the market with remarkably high levels of tetrahydrocannabinol AKA THC. The important thing to remember is that each grower who cultivates, for example Grape God will have a slightly different version because the plant is often grown under slightly different conditions. Humans also all react differently to cannabis and your experience may not be anything like what I’ve described in this article. A novice user will have a different experience than an experienced user even if they are smoking or eating the same strain. Gill Polard works in marketing in communications with clinics and licensed producers in Canada. She is a legalization and safe access advocate and the creator of the popular website The Her(B) Life which celebrates the feminine cannabis experience through industry interviews, education and media. Follow her on twitter and instagram at @ gill_polard

o w c m “ o t b s t y a b W t c p

W e a w o i o d b w s p b b e p t

4 Day Yoga Intensive with Lilian Bianchi

YOGA FOR WELLNESS

THE UNION OF THE HEAD & THE HEART

ur whole body houses our soul. Every cell. In our overly cerebral culture, we have been habituated & conditioned to separate the mind from the body. We get “cut off at the neck” with our main focus centralised in the head. The head drags the body around until the body says no. When we connect to the body in meditation, yoga, dance and physical activity we open the channels between the body and head. When thoughts are rooted in the wisdom of the heart, life changing alignment can take place. When we pour our experience, emotions, feelings and thoughts into body shapes we give our whole being the opportunity to explore the inherent therapeutic nature of free expression. Free-form dance is especially invaluable because it activates that wild genius in us, that soul spark that illuminates the parts of ourselves that have been caged in rigid thinking, belief systems or unprocessed emotions. When we bring presence, breath & movement to the cage of stagnancy, it

unlocks it. When we unravel these layers of conditioning we feel, grow, laugh, cry, release and activate that fire in the heart that is longing to be stoked by life. We blossom with the light of summer.

he 4 day Intensive provides an opportunity to immerse yourself in the practices of Yoga for deeper awareness and growth. Each day will include active and restorative poses, partner

work, breathing practices, relaxation and meditation. Chanting, singing bowls, and readings from selected Yoga Sutras of Patanjali will also be included. Students of all levels who attend regular classes or have a regular personal practice are welcome. When: August 14 - 17, 2017 Hours: 9:00 a.m. - 12 noon Where: Namaste Yoga Studio Cost: $147 To register and for more information please contact Lilian at 250 746-0327 www.namasteyoga. ca

We carry rhythm in our heart beat. We’ve been dancing as a species forever in rituals of celebration, mating, ceremony & play. In our modern world, we can get fragmented with the diversity of incoming information, conditioned behaviours, limiting thought patterns, and collective or ancestral trauma. When we dance, we bring all of the notes in the symphony of our lives into harmony…even for just a song, a moment, a breath. The body is a storyteller and gives us feedback through feelings & sensations. We can receive information about the way the body wants to move. Dance soothes the nervous system and frees up the pathways of expression to let. it. all. out! Feel like dancing? Put on a favourite song and go for it!

Christy Greenwood, of the Forest Yogini Collective, provides massage therapy, medicine sessions, Reiki and more. She offers Rewilding Dance Journeys Online & In-Person. christygreenwood.ca // rewildingfromwithin.com

ruth, and reconciliation. Over the past several months I have heard politicians of all walks utter these words. But what do they really mean? Strip away the politics and the posturing, and what is left is the complicated and uncomfortable task of untangling centuries of wrong-doing against our country’s first peoples. Truth. Those of us in the Cowichan Valley who are not Quw’utsun (Cowichan) are living in the unceded territory of the Quw’utsun people, whose title has never been extinguished through treaty. We benefit greatly from these lands every day—from access

to clean drinking water and fertile farmland, to roads and other public services paid for by intensive resource extraction. These benefits have not been equitably distributed and, in many cases, are possible because of decades of disregard for the rights and title of the Quw’utsun people. The Quw’utsun people have lived in the Cowichan Valley for thousands of years, with a deep regard for the natural world and an understanding that a healthy community is only possible when there is a healthy environment. It is becoming clear that it is only within the last 150 years, and through the influence of settler

Lori Austein, C.C.H.T., C.C.T.

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cultures, that the Cowichan Valley has become a place where human activities threaten to make water unpotable, air unbreathable, and land unarable—for wild and domestic food sources, alike. Reconciliation. There is a reason why truth comes first, or at the very least must happen together with reconciliation—we must acknowledge the hurt before it can be healed. Can this be done in a way that is driven by hope, instead of guilt and shame? I believe so. One opportunity is the upcoming Koksilah “The Camus was once a very important food source for the Salish People. It is now a rare species that Music Festival, needs to be protected...and is a good example and next month at image of conservation and strong cultural ties to the land”. - Stuart Pagaduan Providence Farm. Listen to the songs and words of Indigenous artists groundwork for reconciliation in our own backyard. and leaders headlining the event; learn from elders sharing For more info about the their wisdom about history, Koksilah Music Festival culture and the land; volunteer visit www.koksilahfestival.com and connect with others interested in decolonization; participate as a vendor and showcase your talents in support of a worthwhile cause. Together, we can shine a Emily is grateful to call the light on truth and help lay the Quw’utsun territory home since

Truth and Reconciliation

2008.

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

Nature Rambles

FUN FACTS ABOUT GULLS.

Genevieve Singleton, nature nut and nature interpreter, twinflower4@gmail. com

“Y

ou are the gull, Jo, strong and wild, fond of the storm and the wind, flying far out to sea…” Louisa May Alcott, Little Women This is the time of year that the beach calls us. One animal we tend to take for granted on our beach visits are gulls. Known for pooping on our cars and sometimes on our heads; they are known as a nuisance bird. We have a number of species of gulls in the Valley; the most common gull here is the Glaucous-winged Gull. Known as Qwuni in Hul’q’umi’num, our local First Language, these birds are numerous and can live in many habitats. Opportunistic and eating just about anything; in a single day, they can roam from inner city parking lots to garbage dumps and isolated islands. They are one of the few bird species increasing in numbers due to adapting well to living near humans. Once a year I have the privilege of being a warden on Mitlenatch Island Provincial Park, a small island between Campbell River and Powell River. This island was protected in 1961 due to being the most important seabird nesting site in the Salish Sea for Glaucous-winged Gulls, Pelagic

Sqawkings From Qwuni, Glaucous-Winged Gull Cormorants and other seabirds. My adventures with Mitlenatch started forty-five years ago when I worked as a Park Naturalist at nearby Miracle Beach Nature House for a summer. In those days, paid staff lived on the island. Well known birders such as Bill Merilees, Wayne Campbell and Rob Butler cut their birding beaks here. The days of paid staff are long gone with the short-sighted change in the 1980s of stopping nature interpretation programming in our provincial parks. Mitlenatch is now taken care of by volunteers, organized by the Mitlenatch Island Stewardship Team. We pay our own travel costs and go in shifts of a week at a time. What drives us to give up a week to sit on a desert island (cactus grows there!) listening to very loud squawking Qwuni? Our passion for protecting this vulnerable ecosystem of rare plants and nesting sites is what motivates us. Our main duties are

Beach Manners:

Ours to enjoy, ours to protect. • Please when turning rocks over put the rock back as you found them. Imagine if someone tipped your house upside down and walked away not bothering to put it back upright! • Please take live critters out of the ocean and pools for only a few minutes, do not gather crabs by the handful, put into buckets and forget about them. • Keep your eye on the tide! • A Tidal Waters Fishing Licence is required to harvest shellfish, you can get this online. • Sadly, in many places you cannot eat the shellfish; red tide and contaminated waters can make shellfish deadly to humans. Local conditions can change rapidly, be sure and do your research

protecting this vulnerable seabird colony and rockfish conservation area from people walking off trails and fishing and harassing sea mammals and birds from boats. Dogs are not allowed on the island. We greet visitors, take them on nature walks and emphasize the importance of staying on trails and having respectful boating practices. Qwuni nest in colonies, are very territorial and have mate and site fidelity. The choosing of a nesting site can be quite a process, involving a choking vocalization that the mates call to each other as they decide on the best spot. Once the eggs are laid the parents take turns staying put since gulls have many predators. The most dramatic evidence I saw this past June of predation was three decapitated gull heads from river otters. Nesting is usually May to June, but this year in very late June only three chicks were in evidence, perhaps due to the long winter. Chicks are cute little speckled bundles, often sitting under the parent’s body taking advantage of the parent’s shade. I have spent many happy

• Gull is the correct term. Seagull is a layperson term. Not all gulls are found by the sea! • The word glaucous comes from the Greek word, glaukos, meaning blue-grey. One easy way to identify adult Glaucouswinged Gulls is that their wingtips are blue-grey, the same colour as their back. • Mature Glaucous-winged Gulls have a large red spot on the underside of the bill. This is a restaurant sign to the chicks! They peck at this and Mum or Dad regurgitate their stomach contents into their youngster’s mouth! Gross, you might say, but since there is no power to plug in a blender Mum and Dad make baby food au naturel! • Did you know that Glaucouswinged Gulls have different plumages for their age? Younger birds have more grey on their bodies. It takes four years to have adult plumage. • There is an interesting record from ornithologist Wayne Campbell of a Glaucous-winged Gull being observed living for 22 years in Victoria.

hours in the bird blind observing the numerous vocalizations and postures Qwuni uses. Busy parents, it is captivating to watch the parents take turns feeding, scolding and foraging. Qwuni, our unpaid sanitation engineer, is an integral part of our coastal ecosystem and deserves our respect. Image above of baby chicks courtesy Genevieve Singleton

MARGOT PAGE

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Studio Visits by Appointment 250-746-8446 7113 Osborne Bay Rd, Duncan I www.margotpage.com

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

A h s Z J f c b p 8 B L ( D

to 5 p.m. at the August 6, Crofton Pub, 1534 Joan Ave. in Crofton. Admission is $20 advance or $25 at the door. For information, tickets or to reserve a table, call 250-324-2245.

Africa Under The Stars A rare opportunity to fill your heart - and dance! - to the soul-and-energy-rich music of Zimbabwe and Southern Africa. Join your community for this family-friendly, open-air, evening concert with some of the world’s best Zimbabwean musicians and performers. Saturday August 5, 8:00pm, @ O.U.R. Ecovillage, Baldy Mtn. Rd Shawnigan Lake, Tickets: $15 advance (Community Farm Store), $20 at Door, Children 12 & under free!

PJ Perry Celebrated jazz saxophonist P.J. Perry makes a rare visit to the Cowichan Valley, leading an allstar trio into Pat’s House of Jazz at the Crofton Hotel Pub. Canada’s Mr. Bebop, Perry will perform with Vancouver guitarist Oliver Gannon, bassist Neil Swainson, and drummer Hans Verhoeven. The concert is from 2

Sweet Alibi WCMA award winners and 2016 nominated Sweet Alibi have been captivating audiences since 2009 with their charming and personal performances. With 3 releases, 360+ shows and 33+ festival performances, Sweet Alibi is fast becoming a well-known Roots/ Pop group. ‘Walking in the Dark’ has been featured on satellite and college radio, CBC, MTV Canada and CMT. “The appeal of Sweet Alibi’s sound hinges on their ability to mix elements of folk, roots, and country, then present it in the context of a tightly-structured pop song.”.the manitoban August 6, doors Providence Farm Chapel, 1843 Tzouhalem Rd. Duncan. Tickets $20 advance $22 at the door, available at Duncan Music, Prov. Farm General Store, and online at www.eventbrite.ca. Doors 7 Show 7:30.

Qristina & Quinn Bachand Two-time Irish Music Award winning brother and sister duo, Qristina & Quinn Bachand have performed at major folk and Celtic festival across North America and Europe. They also enjoy the intimate house concert experience and are

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excited to be back at Shady Grove House Concerts in Mill Bay. Limited seating, August 19, 7:30 P.M. Shady Grove at the Sussmans Mill Bay 250929-8226 $20. Donation Shady Grove Folk Arts Society

Community Portrait With Artist Zach Hoskin

Dirty Mountain Hailing from Victoria, the Dirty Mountain sound is heavily infused with harmonydriven melodies and timeless storytelling. Dirty Mountain is a folk-rock band with underlying blends of roots and blues to support the sassy and often gritty messages portrayed in the lyrics. A musical temptress, charismatic songstress, and lyrical adulteress, Elli Hart is the relentless force behind Dirty Mountain. Keeping her in line and providing the strong prowess that runs through the music are Gord Light on bass, and Tom Salter on drums. Influences include Fleetwood Mac, Bonnie Raitt, Lucinda Williams, The Band, Patty Griffin Cobble Hill Music In The Park, Thursday, August 23 6:30pm Cobble Hill Village Commons

Pick up a brush, add some paint & collaborate on a moving, dripping community portrait with artist Zach Hoskin as part of his exhibition, ‘Studies in Predictable Motion’ - a selection of work that creates anything from predictable reactions. Sunday August 13, 11-4pm at The Ou Gallery, 3091 Agira Road, Duncan.

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Sonia Furstenau entering steps of Legislative Assembly in Victoria

MLA Looks Forward to Our Future Sonia Furstenau is the newly elected BC Greens MLA for the Cowichan Valley.

Last month, I rose in the BC Legislature to give my first speech as MLA for Cowichan Valley. The seven weeks leading up that that moment had been hectic, intense, and life-changing, and it felt important to me to explain my decision to second the amendment to the Throne Speech that had been delivered

Tractors honour Russell Farms Market owner, Russell Stewart

he Cowichan Valley farming community commemorated the life of a well-loved farmer, and owner of Russell Farms Market and Garden Center. Russell Stewart was described by many as having a heart of gold. A unique to the Valley, tractor parade took place with various farming families awaiting the procession at the end of their driveways. The Trans-Canada Highway was temporarily shut down, while forty-six tractors, headed to Cowichan Exhibition Park, for a huge celebration of Stewart’s life. Stewart’s very own orange Kubota tractor, endearingly entitled, “The Cadillac” led the way, driven by childhood friend and long-time employee, Ron Halk. Stewart, who did not possess a driver’s

one week earlier – an amendment that would result in a non-confidence vote, ending 16 years of BC Liberal government.

decisions based on principles and evidence, not political calculation and opportunism, and that government should put people’s interests first - ahead of special interests and corporate donors.

I spoke of the core tenets of the BC Green party.

Finally, I explained that while I do want to trust BC Liberals, it will take more than words to make that happen. It will take action. I have a lot of experience with the words of the BC Liberals - words that did not match the reality that I and my community were experiencing.

First, we believe that the highest end of government is to promote the health and wellbeing of British Columbians.

Second, we believe that equity should be a fundamental value of government, and that government should operate in the best interests of this generation – and future generations. Third, we believe that government should steward our public resources to the benefit of all British Columbians - not for short-term gain or for the benefits of a privileged few. I also explained that I believe that government should make

license, used “The Cadillac” to transport produce between field and farm, and would cross the highway almost daily. Seventy-eight-year-old Stewart was born in Westholme and raised in the Valley by a homesteader family, and was an entrepreneur and visionary. Russell Stewart owned a vast amount of acreage, where “he never left a patch of land bare, when it could be used to grow produce,” laughs his long-time friends and employees, Ron Halk, Jag Dhaliwal, and longtime friend, Don Allingham. Brimming with generosity, community champion, Stewart regularly donated his produce to food banks, homeless shelters, and various religious communities and hubs around the Valley. An emotional Allingham recounted many stories of ‘the gentle giant’, who never let a friend pay for their dinner at a restaurant, nor leave emptyhanded, and never said a bad

I know this from personal experience in my community of Shawnigan. We spent years fighting this government, simply for the right to protect our drinking water. My community has not only lost millions of dollars, drained from the pockets of the people of Shawnigan - we also lost our trust in government. We lost our faith that government institutions are there to protect us as citizens. For over four years we fought, all the while asking why the government didn’t protect us

– why instead it imperiled us. The entire process was weighted against us, against independent scientific evidence, and against common sense. And yet as a community we held fast to our own principles. We stayed rooted in integrity, in honesty, in evidence - and after four years, we achieved the outcome we fought so hard for. And while the last two months have been a tumultuous and challenging time in BC, I am hopeful and optimistic about BC’s future, and I am hopeful and optimistic that we are indeed entering into a new era in BC politics – an era in which MLAs can work together, across party lines, to do what’s best for the citizens and future generations of British Columbia. The citizens of the Cowichan Valley, and indeed all of BC, deserve nothing less.

www.soniafurstenaumla.ca

Procession for Russell Stewart

word about anyone. “We talked about what he would do if he won the lottery once,” Allingham recalls with amazement. “He said if he won, he would give the money towards the Cowichan District Hospital for new hospital equipment and specialized machines.”

“This tractor parade honors Russell’s legacy, he has no children, no brothers or sisters, but he has created a huge, loyal community following, and we will do everything in our power to keep that going,” reflects Allingham.

Russell Farms Market and Garden Centre provides local, well-priced produce for the community, and hosts a variety of community events, such as gardening workshops, customer contests, and farm festivals.

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

Franya Jedwab is a writer and clinical counsellor in the Cowichan Valley.

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

Aries (March 21-April 19) August is one of your loveliest times of the year! Both the Sun and Mars give you the courage to feel free to express yourself artistically, creatively and of course ñ in all aspects of romance. Woot! This is the perfect month to socialize, enjoy the theatre, attend parties and sports events plus enjoy playful activities with children. In particular, new romance can blossom! You could not pick a better time for a vacation. At least, grab a mini vacation. This is your turn to be yourself. You will feel lighter and happier as you enjoy fun times and stimulating social events. ìAnyone for another mojito?î Taurus (April 20-May 20) More than any other month of the year, August is all about home and family. You might be involved with a parent; or caught up in a family dispute because increased chaos and activity at home have triggered tension with someone. Others are excited about home renovations or major redecorating projects. Some are involved with a residential move. Whatever the reason, it is totally appropriate to channel your energy and focus on home and family now. George Burns was right: ìHappiness is having a warm, loving, caring family in another city.î Gemini (May 21-June 20) This month is fast-paced upbeat, energetic. Just your style! (Geminis donít do boring.) Many will enjoy short trips and mini vacations

because you want to see new places, interesting faces and hear fascinating ideas. You might also read, write and study more. Both the Sun and Mars will make your interactions with others very direct ñ even forceful. You will say what you mean and mean what you say! Fortunately, you will get away with this because fair Venus in your sign makes you charming and diplomatic. What a winner! Cancer (June 21-July 22) Except for those rare, wild moments, you are frugal. You would never buy towels full retail. (ìAre you nuts?î) My Cancer friend Crazy Bob is that guy at a garage sale holding a George Foreman grill yelling out, ìIíll give ya fifty cents!î (I pretend Iím not with him because I find it all too taudry, even thought the grill is for me.) I mention this because this month, your focus is on money and major purchases. You will work hard to earn money and you will spend money more than usual. Yup, money talks but it doesnít always make sense. ìSpare cThis hange?î Leo (July 23-Aug. 22) Ta da! This month, the Sun is in your sign. When the Sun is in your sign, you recharge your batteries for the rest of the year; and inexplicably, you attract favourable situations and people to you. Obviously, you can take advantage of this good fortune and use it to benefit you. For one thing ñ you will have lots of energy! And this year, you will be invigorated because fiery Mars is also in your sign, lined up with the Sun. Whoa Nellie! You definitely have a need to express yourself. Think of it this way ñ this month, your first duty is to yourself. Virgo (Aug. 23-Sept. 22)

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For most of August, the Sun is hiding in your chart. Therefore, you will prefer to work alone or behind the scenes and play it low key. One reason you want to be low-key is your ruler Mercury will begin to slow down at the beginning of August (an illusion with the motion of planet Earth). This will encourage errors and silly mistakes on your part! Aaggh! Why advertise this? Fortunately, fair Venus at the top, makes you attractive in the eyes of bosses, parents and VIPs. In fact, you look so good, you might strike up a romance! Libra (Sept. 23-Oct. 22) Yay! What a joyful month for your sign! Libra is the most social sign in the zodiac. You like to have someone on the end of your teeter-totter. It just so happens, that August is the most popular time of the year because you will be involved with friends casual acquaintances and groups more than usual. You be in a competitive relationship with someone in sports, business or a social situation. Travel for pleasure will delight. Some will fall in love with someone ìdifferent.î Buy something to wear to the ball! Scorpio (Oct. 23-Nov. 21) The only time all year when the Sun is at high noon in your chart is this month. This symbolizes a flattering spotlight on you, which means you impress bosses, parents and VIPs without doing anything special. Everyone loves you! This is obviously the time to ask for a raise, or a promotion, or make your pitch. Do whatever you can to advance your agenda with those who have influence over you because they are so impressed! Meanwhile, money, favours and goods will come to you. You can accomplish a lot with this combo! Ya think? Sagittarius (Nov. 22-Dec. 21) You are the traveller of the zodiac so youíll be happy to know that this month brings mucho opportunities to blow town! Book your reservations now. Do whatever you can to get outta Dodge. If you cannot get away, then be a tourist in your own city. Explore new places and ethnic restaurants. Talk to people from different backgrounds so you feel stimulated about a chance to

AUGUST FORECAST learn something new. One further perk ñ fair Venus will massage friendships and partnerships in a lovely way. Enjoy! Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan. 19) While other signs are kicking up their heels and partying or slipping away on vacation ñ you will be more intense in August. You might resolve disputes about shared property, taxes, debt, inheritances and anything to do with insurance claims. Perhaps you want to clarify shared expenses or the division of labour? On a lighter note, your sex drive will be heightened, which means you might want to purchase lingerie or book a room. (Sex is after five and before seven.) Aquarius (Jan. 20-Feb. 18) This month, your energy will be diminished. You will need more sleep and more rest. Just accept this and go to bed. One further thing that might drain you is fiery Mars makes you feel annoyed with partners and close friends. (Yes, they are annoying.) But all is not lost! Fair Venus, the planet is travelling through the part of your chart that rules romance, vacations, love affairs, the theatre, the arts, fun times and playful activities with children. Run away and join the circus! Pisces (Feb. 19-March 20) Two different influences are at play this month. One makes you work hard. You want to be efficient, effective and productive in everything you do both the work and at home. ìIím indestructible!î Another influence makes you want to redecorate and invite everyone over for an evening barbecue. Maybe Tiki lights and watermelon daiquiris? This same window of time is an excellent opportunity to create warmer bonds with family members. (Buy sandals on sale.) www.georgianicols.com @end

DIRECTORY OF LOCAL SERVICES

Valley Voice Magazine readers directory a great way to discover local services and businesses. 2 sizes of ad space are available to suit every business message and budget. Affordable, stylish and straight to the point.

Directory Size A - 1 logo + 8-12 word listing Full Colour 1 X $63 6X $53 12X $43 Black & White 1 X $52 6X $42 12X $32

Contact Adrienne Richards for more info 250 510 6596 or by phone to adrienne@cowichanvalleyvoice.com

Deadline July 15 for August 2017 Issue 105 Advertising

Astrology

Choose us to promote your business and services. Over 30,000 readers! Contact Adrienne Richards 250 510 6596 adrienne@cowichanvalleyvoice.com for a 2017 Rate Card.

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Camera Services

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ROOFING & CONTRACTING INC. Roofing • Fences • Landscaping • Home Renos

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Help Wanted

Garden Design

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ECE teacher sought, part time/full time, with a current 5-year certificate for a Montessori Academy in Duncan.

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Opportunity for Montessori training. Contact (250) 737-1119 or inayat@intmontessori.ca

Custom Garden Design, Outdoor Living Spaces and Chillatoriums for Home & Business

Farms & Food

More than a Meat Shop

Gluten Free/Organic Pasta’s, Organic Meat, Homemade Sausage, International Foods. The Duncan Butcher 430 Trans Canada Hwy 250 748 -6377

Mt. Sicker Family Farm

We supply these local companies • e3 Naturals: Sensitive Skin Therapy • Buddies Natural Pet Food

www.buddiesnaturalpetfood.ca www.e3naturals.com

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

Health and Healing Acute or Chronic conditions • Substance dependency • Facial Rejuvenation • MSP & extended health coverage if applicable

Customizable Organic Mattresses, Pillows, Linens Locally made Platform Beds and Furniture

Wu Wei Acupuncture & Acupressure Clinic Frauke McCashin, R.Ac., Dipl.TCM 1 - (250) 710 3581 Mill Bay & Duncan www.worldwuwei.com

126 Station St. 250-597-REST (7378) www.resthouse.ca

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Unwind and release the body’s own healing potential Cranialsacral Therapy RCST • Integrative Energy Healing Therapist • Kundalini Terri Bishop 1-778-288-7533 Yoga Classes

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Biomagnetism & Energy Healing Certified Practitioner - Kathryn Lowther

250-891-5138 www.biomagcanada.ca Join Brett Holland for Jingui Golden Shield Qi classes every Wednesday

Ayurvedic Life Transformations

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Coaching, Counselling, Yoga Therapies & Bodywork

Sol Centre, 5380 TCH, Duncan Ph: 250 920 8818

Asrael 250 597 3973 www.ayurvedicbliss.com

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Prenatal

Natural Beauty

Prudence

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2 locations!

Natural Skincare & Cosmetics

- 6 week series - weekend series - one day intensive workshops

• 155 Craig Street, Downtown Duncan

Robin Gale 250 732 5859

www.prudencenaturalbeauty.ca

Pet Care Spacious suites, pickup and drop-off service, kitty cams

Debbie Wood Certified Animal Naturopath Carnivore Nutritionist

Cowichan’s Exclusive Boarding Resort for Cats

That Cat Hotel 250-749-3728 www.ThatCatHotel.ca

Support from the inside Monday-Thursday 250-597-7364

Photography Services

Yoga

Yoga on the Dock at Mill Bay Marina July - September

Merle Enge 250-217-6255 Yes-yoga@outlook.com FBYoga On The Dock

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