Vv february issue 75 web by Cowichan Valley Voice

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2015 FEBRUARY ISSUE 75 LOCAL FOOD I MUSIC I EVENTS I COMMUNITY I SUSTAINABLE OPTIONS

February Events

Valley Vines to Wines Mill Bay Shopping Centre Tues-Sat 9:30-5pm Runs to Feb 25

1 TERESA DOYLE Solo Show From PEI Getting Higher Choir Duncan Garage Showroom 133 Station St Upstairs 250 748 7246 8pm $20 Adv $25 Door

COMMUNITY ACCUPUNCTURE With Frauke McCashin RAc 250 710 3581 #103-44 Queens Rd, Duncan 5-8pm Wednesdays

PARENT & CHILD MUSIC CLASS Lila Music Centre 3228A Gibbins Rd, Duncan joythroughmusic.com/parent-and-childmusic/ Tuesdays 9:15-10:15am $60/Month for 4 Months

KAREL ROESSINGH TRIO Joey Smith & Damian Graham Crofton Hotel & Pub 1534 Joan Ave 250 324 2245 2-5pm $10

FIRST REHERSAL For Upcoming Performance of Mendelssohn’s Elijah Sylvan United Church in Mill Bay Car Pooling Available perfectpitch@shaw.ca Wednesdays 7:30-9pm

11 RAISING CHILDREN IN A DIGITAL WORLD Presented By Dr. Gordon Neufeld Cowichan Performing Arts Centre 2687 James St, Duncan 7pm $25

WE HEART VOLUNTEERS SHOW Annual Portals Volunteer Appreciation Show PORTALS the CVAC Centre of Arts Culture & Heritage 2687 James St, Duncan MonFri 10-1pm Sat 10-1pm Runs to Feb 13 2 MARGIT NELLEMANN’S ANNUAL SECONDS SALE Features Slightly Imperfect Functional & Decorative Clay Art Reduced Up to 82% Wear a Tutu & Get an extra 22% off teafarm.ca 8350 Richards Trail, North Cowichan 2-7pm

6 FONDUE FRIDAYS Hilary’s Cheese Cowichan Bay 1737 Cowichan Bay Rd Reservations Required 250 748 5992 Fridays 5-9pm $29 For Two THRESHOLD SINGING Lila Music Centre 3228A Gibbins Rd, Duncan www. joythroughmusic.com/threshold-music/ Fridays 9-10:30am Drop-in $15 Suggested Donation

GETTING THE FUNK DOWN-TOWN BAND Funk Grooves Duncan Garage Showroom 133 Station St Upstairs 250 748 7246 8pm $12 Adv $15 Door

TRADITIONAL SQUARE DANCE w/ Shady Grove Dance Band No Experience Necessary 12+ The Hub 2465 Koksilah Rd, Cowichan Station 7:30pm $5

PAINTINGS & PRINTS By Lynelle Renee and Susanne Pink Imagine That! 251 Craig St, Duncan Runs to Feb 28

7 BASIC FRUIT TREE PRUNING 1 Hour Demo on pruning of fruit trees & small fruits By Bernie Dinter 2205 Phipps Rd, Duncan dinternursery.ca 10am FREE

CEEVACS ROADRUNNERS WALK & RUN CLINIC 12 Week Program All Abilities 495 Beech Ave, Duncan ceevacs.com 6-8pm $110 Adv $130 3 COMMUNITY ACCUPUNCTURE With Frauke McCashin RAc 250 710 3581 #103-44 Queens Rd, Duncan 12-3pm Tuesdays SCULPTING CLASSES IN CLAY w/ Linda Richter featofclaystudio.com 8063 S Nimmo Rd, Westholme Tuesdays 9:3011:30am $15 per Session Plus Clay Includes Firing & Finishing INTUITIVE SELF DISCOVERY Develop Your Natural Intuitive Ability lindapynaker. com 1830 Gillis Rd, Cowichan Bay 7-8:30pm $20 4 CALLIGRAPHY SHOW 17th Annual Warmland Calligraphers of the Cowichan Valley Show & Sale The Loft Gallery @

CABIN FEVER Honeymoon Bay Market Indoors Honeymoon Bay Community Hall 10022 Park Dr, Honeymoon Bay thehoneymooners@shaw.ca 10-2pm 8 ARROWSMITH BIG BAND Directed By Michael Wright Crofton Hotel & Pub 1534 Joan Ave 250 324 2245 2-5pm $10 Door 9 CLAY HUB POTTERY STUDIO GRAND OPENING Bring The Whole Family Try Hand Building & Wheel Throwing The Hub 2375 Koksilah Rd, Cowichan Station theclayhubcollective.weebly.com 10-4pm FREE FAMILY DAY SALE Scoops Natural Foods 15% Off All Groceries Whippletree Junction, on Trans Canada Hwy

Rd events.cvhs@shaw.ca 2-4:30pm

LEARN TO MAKE NOURISHING BROTHS Bone Broth Vegetable Stock & Kombu Scoops Natural Foods @ Whippletree Junction 250 715 6888 6-7pm $25 LEGO FUN Chemainus Library For Children 6+ & Their Families 2592 Legion St 3:30-4:30 FREE 13 ART FILM NIGHT @ Sylvan United Church Double Feature Divorce Italian Style & Bottle Rocket 985 Shawnigan Mill Bay Rd artfilmnightatsylvan@gmail.com 7pm & 9pm $5 Admission Bring Snacks 14 VALENTINE’S DAY TEA Teafarm 8350 Richards Trail, North Cowichan 10-5pm CINDERELLA Presented By Canada’s Ballet Jörgen Cowichan Performing Arts Centre 2687 James St, Duncan 250 748 7529 7:30 pm Tickets $36/$32/$20/$5 HAND IN HAND THRIFT SHOP Opening Day Event St. John’s Anglican Church 3295 Cobble Hill Rd, Cobble Hill 12-4pm 3 COMMON MISTAKES WOMEN 50+ MAKE That Keeps Them Struggling To Balance Finances & Live A Life They Love Cowichan Library 2687 James St, Duncan Registration Required Jan@ WorkOnYourOwnTerms.com 1-4pm FREE 15 VALENTINE DIVA Palm Court Light Orchestra Lambroula Pappas Soprano A Concert to Warm The Heart Cowichan Performing Arts Centre 2687 James St,

10 COMMUNITY CONSULTATION ON END OF LIFE CARE Upper Hall, Lake Cowichan Rec Centre 311 South Shore

Denise McLean

CERTIFIED LIFELINE™ PRACTITIONER Activate the subconscious mind and have a direct impact on genetic expressions affecting the health of your body and the relationships in your life.

Infinite Love & Gratitude

250-732-0247

azstarplays@yahoo.ca

By Appointment in Cobble Hill

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

FREE DIGITAL EDITION AVAILABLE NOW

Duncan 250 754 8550 2:30pm

Ladysmith 250 245 7307 7-9:30pm $65

GYPSY JAZZ DJANGO STYLE w/ Montreal’s Denis Chang Reuben Wier Conn Stewart & Sean Drabitt Crofton Hotel & Pub 1534 Joan Ave 2-5pm $10

20 WAY OF THE WAVE 5Rhythms w/ Chantell Foss Harmony Yoga 360 Duncan St, mcfoss@telus.net 7:30-9:30pm $15

16 KIDS CLAY CLASS 4-7 Years Who Want To Get Their Hands Dirty Cowichan Station Hub Clay Studio 2375 Koksilah Rd, Cowichan Station theclayhubcollective.weebly.com 8 weeks Mondays 3:15pm-4:45pm $120 COMMUNITY CONSULTATION ON END OF LIFE CARE St. John’s Anglican Church 486 Jubilee St, Duncan 1-3:30pm BURT’S BUZZ Documentary Night @ The Library Cowichan library 2687 James St, Duncan 250 746 7661 6-7:30pm FREE 17 TRUST YOUR INTUITION Trust Your Instincts Find Inner Calm Travelodge 140 TCH Duncan gwen1860@shaw.ca 1-2:30pm & 7-8:30pm COMMUNITY CONSULTATION ON END OF LIFE CARE Shawnigan Lk Community Centre 2804 Shawnigan Lake Rd events. cvhs@shaw.ca 1-3:30pm 18 INTRODUCTION TO CLAY Try Different Techniques Find Out What Is Right For You Cowichan Station Hub Clay Studio theclayhubcollective.weebly.com 8 weeks Wednesdays 6- 8:30pm 2375 Koksilah Rd, Cowichan Station $225 Clay Included 19 CELEBRATE CHINESE NEW YEAR The Tea Farm 8350 Richards Trail, North Cowichan teafarm.ca 10-5pm STUDENTWORKS OPENING CVAC Youth Outreach Program’s 4-6pm Featuring a Wide Variety From 2D to Performance Art Portals 2687 James St, Duncan MonFri10-5pm Sat 10-1pm Runs to Mar 6 FREE LADYSMITH FESTIVAL OF LIGHTS MEETING New Volunteers Welcome Contact Duck Paterson 250 245 2263 1163 4th Ave, Ladysmith TASTE OF ITALY Worldly Gourmet Cooking Class W/ Chef Gary Faessler Northern Italian Menu 522 1st Ave,

21 GREEN PARTY ANNUAL GENERAL MEETING Island Savings Centre Koksilah Room, 2687 James St, Duncan 7-9pm FRUIT TREE CARE & PRUNING WORKSHOP ISA Certified Arborist Todd Gesshe Learn Basic Tree Biology Fruit Tree Health Philosophy of Pruning & HandsOn Pruning Procedures Pre-registration required cowichangreencommunity.org 360 Duncan St 9-3:30pm $35 CGC members/ $40 22 LOVE SONGS Mezzo Soprano Kristin Hoff Presented By Chemainus Classical Concerts chemainusclassicalconcerts. ca St.Michael’s Church 2858 Mill St, Chemainus 2pm Ticket $15 Adv $20 Door IMPRESSIONS OF LIGHTFOOT Patrick Courtin Marisha Devoin & James McRae Crofton Hotel & Pub 1534 Joan Ave 250 324 2245 2-5pm $10 Door 23 PRIDE Presented By Reel Alternatives UK Film Cowichan Performing Arts Centre 2687 James St, Duncan Benefits CV Hospice 7pm Tickets $12 Spring series Feb-June 5 films $50 Students $5 24 IMPROVE YOUR NIGHT PHOTOGRAPHY Tips & Techniques Hardwick Hall High St @ 3rd Ave Ladysmith LadysmithCameraClub.com 7pm Non-members $5 drop-in fee 25 NO SUGAR ADDED Learn How To Adapt ‘Sinful’ Recipes w/ Healthful Sugar Alternatives Scoops Natural Foods @ Whippletree Junction 250 715 6888 6-7pm $25 TASTE OF MOROCCO Worldly Gourmet Cooking ClasS w/ Chef Gary Faessler Moroccan 522 1st Ave, Ladysmith 250 245 7307 7-9:30pm $65 PP 25-28 THE BOYFRIEND MUSICAL A Light Romantic Spoof of the 1920’s Musical Brentwood College School 2375 Mount Baker Rd, Mill Bay 7:30-10pm $27

All Jazz Shows $10 unless stated

Sunday, Feb 1 • 2-5 pm Karel Roessingh, Joey Smith & Damian Graham Sunday, Feb 8 • 2-5 pm the Arrowsmith Big Band of Nanaimo Sunday, Feb 15 • 2-5 pm Gypsy Jazz Django Style! Montreal’s Denis Chang, with Reuben Wier, Conn Stewart, Sean Drabitt

Sunday, Feb 22 • 2-5 pm Impressions of Lightfoot Patrick Courtin, Marisha Devoin, James McRae

1534 Joan Avenue Crofton 26 TINY HOME VILLAGE CO-OP INFO EVENING Cowichan Green Community 360 Duncan St, Duncan 7pm FREE joye@telus.net 27 OF THE WAVE 5Rhythms w/ Chantell Foss Harmony Yoga & Wellness 360 Duncan St, Duncan mcfoss@telus.net 7:30-9:30pm $15 27 - MAR 1 BIRTHING FROM WITHIN PRENATAL WEEKEND CLASS W/ ROBIN GALE 250.732-5859 islandmother.com 28 BOOM A Multi-media One Man Production Chronicling the Baby Boom Years Cowichan Performing Arts Centre 2687 James St, Duncan 250 748 7529 7:30 pm Tickets $28/$25.50

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

Issue 75 February 2015 Published by Cowichan Valley Voice Magazine Editors Sheila & Richard Badman Contact us at: editor@cowichanvalleyvoice.com 250 746 9319 - 6514 Wicks Rd, Duncan BC V9L 5V2 Visit us online at www.cowichanvalleyvoice.com Proofreader Diana Pink

Distribution Linda Dirksengale Robin Gale

OUR COMMUNITY February Events 4-5 Eye On Shawnigan 19 Experience Downtown Duncan 28-31 Websites, Faxes and Verbal Lint by Rick Dennis 33 FREE Facial Parties in February 39 Community Farm Store Pages 44-47 The Somenos System is an Ecological Gem 50 Georgia Nicols February Horoscopes 53 Directory 54-55

Calendar Layout Angela Komljenovic

Advertising Enquiries Please Call Adrienne Richards 250 510 6596 / e-mail adrienne@cowichanvalleyvoice.com Or in the south Cowichan area please Call Teressa Kathleen 780 356 3388 / e-mail tk@cowichanvalleyvoice.com Next Ad Deadline FEB 15 for MARCH ISSUE

LOCAL FOOD & DRINK What Is White Flour? 8 Ancient Grain Alternatives 9 Cowichan Bay Seafood Dungeness Crab 9 Cowichan Eating: Happiness Foods 10 Island Farmhouse Poultry 11 Celebrate Love With Local Sparklers 12 -13 Heart Health & Tea 27

*Non Profit Community Ad Rates available please enquire. COMMUNITY CALENDAR LISTINGS ARE FREE! Please use this format Event Date, Event Title, Location/Address Contact for Tickets OR Website (not both)Time, Cost DEADLINE February 15 for March 2015 Issue 76 E-mail Date, Time, Location, Event Title and Cost to: events@cowichanvalleyvoice.com Please list event title in subject with the word â&#x20AC;&#x153;EVENTâ&#x20AC;? Cowichan Valley Voice Magazine reserves the right to omit and/or edit submitted listings due to space limitations

FARM & GARDEN Trees in the Nude 42 Providing a Good Start to Your Seeds 43 HOME & LIVING Designing Green: Let There Be Light 14 Is Solar Right For Your Home? 16 Tiny Home Revolution Is Here 17 Recycling Electronics 18 Green Living: My Favourite Things 18

SPECIAL THANKS TO FOLLOWING VALLEY VOICES Bruce Stewart, Bill Jones, Pam Stiles, David Coulson, Kuan Jian Foo, Joy Emmanuel, Sophy Roberge, Tracey Hanson, Cait Wilde, Stephanie Cutler, Lee Masters, Gretchen Hartley, Frauke McCashin, Dona Billingsley, Heather Ferguson, Lisa Hache Maguire, Margit Nellemann, Denise McLean, Lindsay Campa, Swarn Leung, Robin Round, Pipi Tustian, Susanne Pink, Todd Gesshe, Nora Arajs, Debbie Wood, Amanda Griesbach, Rick Dennis, Elizabeth Bailey, Paulina Kee, David Yaeger, Rick Dennis, Nicolette Genier and The Wonderful Staff at The Community Farm Store, The Lovely Georgia Nicols and Nature Hero David Suzuki.

LOCAL ARTS Masimba Marimba CD Release Party 32 Project Johnny Cash 33 Art & Music Events 35 Talking Arts Pipi Tustian 40 Imagine That! Artisan Susanne Pink 41

We welcome your story ideas & photo submissions, however Cowichan Valley Voice Magazine reserves the right to omit and/or edit all submissions for space, clarity, content and style. The opinions expressed in Valley Voice Magazine do not necessarily reflect those of the editor, publishers or other contributors. Please send a query e-mail with your suggested topic prior to sending your article as space is limited and may not always be available.

FAMILY Is Reading & Spelling a Problem? 24 Dr. Gordon Neufeld Presentation 25 BODY, MIND & SOUL Should I Hire A Personal Trainer? 21 What the Heck is a Birth Doula? 22 Wu Wei Acupuncture & Acupressure 23 Advice for Relationships 26 End Of Life Care 34 Yoga Therapy 36 Lifeline Practitioner Denise McLean 36-37 The Beauty of Dance 50 David Suzuki 51 Healthy Relationships 52

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.

2015 Ad Rate Cards Now Available March AD Deadline: February 18 Over 25,000 LOCAL readers pick up the Valley Voice monthly. For a 2015 Rate Card please contact us! Contact Adrienne at 250 510 6596 adrienne@cowichanvalleyvoice.com

South Cowichan businesses please call

TK at 780 356 3388 TK@cowichanvalleyvoice.com

PETS & RECREATION Pacific Rim Whale Festival 38 You Want to Work With Dogs 48 Walking Senior Dogs 49

Cover Image; Year of The Goat, Cienpies Design. People born in1919, 1931, 1943, 1955, 1967, 1979, 1991, 2003, 2015 are born in the year of the Goat. They are generally believed to be gentle and mild-mannered, brimming with a strong sense of kindheartedness and justice. They have very delicate thoughts, strong creativity, and perseverance. Although they look gentle on the surface, they are tough on the inside. They have strong inner resilience and excellent defensive instincts. Goat people prefer to work in a team and do not want to be the center of attention. Generally speaking, Goats are private, but very loyal to those they love. They are fashionable and enjoy the finer things in life. Lucky goat colors: brown, red, and purple.

What Is White Flour?

t seems like a pretty basic question that should have a simple answer, right? What is white flour? A white powder made from grinding wheat…. When you look into it closely, it gets a little more complicated. According to the Government of Canada, Food and Drug Regulations on the Justice Laws website, there are 2 main criteria that must be met in order to call flour, “white flour”. It has to be ground fine enough and enough bran removed to a threshold of not more than 149 microns. It must be enriched with thiamine, riboflavin, niacin, folic acid and iron. In most cases, the enriched minerals are outlined on the label. If a manufacturer doesn’t meet these two criteria, they cannot call it flour, so it is usually described as sifted wheat. Typically, small scale millers do not enrich the sifted wheat and do not sift to 149 microns. Some people prefer this because they get more of the nutritional benefits of the bran without going to a full whole wheat option. The really interesting part about the law is the full page of what they ARE able to add. None of this is required on the ingredient label (because it is just widely, understood, right?). Most of the additives fill the role of making the flour last longer, making it look better and more appetizing, or making it perform better by enhancing gluten development and baking properties. Here are some highlights of what is allowed. What these additives are the thresholds and what they

do is beyond the scope of this article, but I invite you to do a little research on your own. amylase, amylase (maltogenic), asparaginase, bromelain, glucoamylase, glucose oxidase, lactase, lipase, lipoxidase, pentosanase, phospholipase, protease, pullulanase or xylanase, chlorine, chlorine dioxide, benzoyl peroxide, ammonium persulphate, ammonium chloride, acetone peroxide, azodicarbonamide, l-cysteine (hydrochloride), monocalcium phosphate. The most newsworthy additive on the list is azodicarbonamide. Last year, Subway restaurants decided to have their flour suppliers remove azodicarbonamide from all of their breads. This was the result of a blogger highlighting the fact that it is a key ingredient in making yoga mats. Another fun one to google is “l-cysteine bread”.

Ancient Grain Alternatives To White Flour

o, you have decided to eliminate white flour from your eating plan. Does this mean that you also have to eliminate your favourite pancake, bread or dessert recipe? No, it does not. Don’t ditch those family favourites. Give them a healthy, nutrient dense twist by replacing your commercial flour with freshly milled 100% grain flour. Whole grain flours contain the entire grain, including the endosperm and the germ, the life source of the food which is often removed from commercial flours to ensure shelf stability. Commercially produced white flour has almost no expiry date. Real whole grain flours contain essential oils that require that they are used shortly after grinding to ensure optimum nutrition. Ancient grains that have not been exposed to hybridization are often well tolerated by people who have

mild gluten sensitivities. When selecting whole grain flours, always go for the organic option, ensure your supplier knows where the grain originates from and is aware of the farming practices of the grower. Buy freshly milled flour as you need it, store extras in the fridge or freezer to keep it from going rancid. Flour milled from ancient grains is rich in protein, minerals and essential amino acids. Grains such as Spelt and Kamut can be replaced cup for cup in both leavened (yeasted) and unleavened baking. Spelt is highly porous and is perfect for moist carrot cake or zucchini bread, however, you may have to cut back on the liquids in your recipe, especially in bread. Kamut flour has an incredible nutty flavour and its high protein content makes for great bread

So, how do you protect yourself if you don’t want to eat this stuff? Look for flour labelled as “unbleached”. That takes care of the chlorines and bleaching agents. Typically organic flour has less added to it than conventional flour, (but not necessarily). Ask questions of the manufacturer for a list of exactly what is in it. Seek out a small scale producer or a retailer who sells sifted wheat instead of flour.

Bruce Stewart is co-owner of True Grain Bread in Cowichan Bay and President of Cittaslow Cowichan.

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

making. Quinoa, amaranth, sorghum and millet flours are perfect for unleavened baking, particularly gluten free baking. Lightly toasting the flour before using it enhances the flavour of your baked product. When using these flours for yeasted baking, you will need to add starches and a gluten replacement such as xantham gum, to give it a ‘bread like’ texture Einkorn and farro are denser flours that are great for pancakes, rich crackers and heavy biscuits. Both are extremely high is minerals and essential amino acids. If you are just starting out with fresh milled ancient grains and unsure of how your family

will receive them, replace just a quarter of your regular flour with an ancient grain flour and work your way up. Even these small changes can increase the nutritional value of your baking significantly. Here at Scoops, we enjoy milling our organic grains into healthy fresh flour for our customers. We help customers determine which flours will work best in their recipes and, if necessary, how to adjust their recipes to accommodate the natural use of real flour. Pam Stiles is the owner of Scoops Natural Foods at Whippletree Junction. (250) 715-6888

Open Tuesday - Sunday 10 am to 6 pm Romantic Valentine’s Dinner - Asian Style Dungeness Crab for Two CLOSED Mondays

LIVE DUNGENESS CRAB • FRESH FISH • LOCAL PRAWNS AND MORE! Ask Cowichan Bay Seafoods to crack and clean your live crabs right at purchase!

Amount 3 1 tablespoon 1 1 3 stalks 1 teaspoon 3/4 Cup 1/2 Cup 1/4 Cup 3 tablespoons

Method

Ingredients Dungeness crabs cleaned and cracked fresh cilantro shallot garlic green onions grated ginger soy sauce local honey fresh cracked peppercorns vegetable oil

Fresh live crab should be purchased and cooked the same day.The crabs can only be stored in the refrigerator for a few hours once taken out of their holding tanks.

Finely chop all fresh ingredients and combine in large bowl with soy sauce and local honey. Add cracked crab* and toss. Cover and chill in marinade for up to an hour, turning crab often to really soak in marinade. Coarsely crush peppercorns with rolling pin or grind in grinder. Heat oil in a large wok or large deep pan over medium-high heat. Flash cook fresh crab in hot oil for 5 minutes until crab is hot. Add remaining marinade and 2 tbsp cracked black pepper and continue to stir until crab is cooked and shells turn red. Sprinkle remaining pepper over crab and mix well. Ladle crab and juices into bowls and serve with crusty bread, steamed jasmine rice and your favourite local white. For an extra spicy dish add to hot oil when cooking1 tablespoon Sambal Olek * For ease, fresh pre cooked crab can be purchased from Cowichan Bay Seafoods and used in this recipe making this dinner a quick one to prepare! Dungeness crab available live, cleaned, cooked and cracked!

Cowichan Bay Seafoods

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

Interested in buying the freshest catch of the season straight from your local fishermen? Become a member of Cowichan Valley’s first Community Supported Fishery for access to top quality, sushi grade seafood mindfully caught using low impact fishing methods.

Fisherman Guy Johnston on the Michelle Rose

CSF members buy a share of the season catch at prices that are fair to both members and Fishermen.

2015 Sockeye, Coho, Pinks, Prawns & Octopus

michellerosecsf.com mrfishing@telus.net

Happiness Foods Bill Jones is a chef, author and food consultant based on Deerholme farm. Reach him at www. deerholme.com

he effect of food on mood has always been an interest of mine. It started when I found out foods like garlic where believed to energize the brain and stimulate social interactions like communication. Then I found out about the world of aphrodisiacs (always a hot topic for the mind of a young man) and then veered off into the world of how certain foods can elevate moods and contribute to our wellbeing. In University I took a fun course called Culinary Anthropology, an exploration of how food and culture influence different cultures around the world. It taught me that food plays a huge role in our lives and sharing and enjoyment are key pieces for enjoying our time here on the planet. It all made me think that maybe there were deeper mechanism at work when we eat food we enjoy. Science has also looked at this issue and has isolated several interesting connections. Some foods do provide energy to the metabolism (such as theobromine from chocolate and caffeine from coffee and tea and others). Some chemical reactions such as the caramelization of sugars also form complex products that react as pleasure in the brain. Many foods we crave

contain an essential amino acid called tryptophan and one key component is called serotonin. Many foods contain this compound such as dairy, meat and poultry, nuts, seeds, chickpeas, chocolate and many mushrooms. Yes, they all taste good, but there are also chemical transmitters being sent to your brain sending waves of pleasure around. This is pretty neat stuff. Recent research as also revealed another substance called andandamine. You may know it as an active ingredient in cannabis but it also occurs naturally in other plants, notably chocolate and truffles and more mysteriously in local sea urchin roe. Scientists have dubbed this the bliss molecule for its role in lowering anxiety and it’s being studied as a potential medication for treating depression. It is also though to increase appetite and may have a role in the way the body assimilates and stores fat. Who knew that forkful of food has may have so much impact on our brain? Well – we did; and we’ve been celebrating the fact on our farm for the past few years. On Saturday, February 14th (yes, that’s Valentines Day) we will be holding our annual Happiness Dinner featuring foods that encourage feelings of wellbeing and pleasure. The meal will include oysters, truffles, Dungeness crab, mushrooms and chocolate. If you feel like being a happy Guinea Pig, come join us. Details are on our website at www.deerholme.com.

2 Can Dine for $34.99

“It’s fresher from here”

Lettuce Wraps with Spicy Grilled Chicken Thighs and Peanut Sauce Recipe Courtesy Chef Bill Jones, Deerholme Farm, Glenora

Amounts

Ingredients

4 1 1 1 1 1

Island Farmhouse Chicken Thighs Garlic, Chopped Minced Hot Chili Minced Fresh Cilantro Sesame Oil Grapeseed Oil Salt And Pepper To Taste

Clove Tsp (5 Ml) Tbsp (15 Ml) Tsp (5 Ml) Tbsp (15 Ml)

Peanut Sauce 1 Can 1/4 Cup (65 Ml) 3 1 Tbsp (15 Ml) 1 2 Tbsp (30 Ml) ¼ Cup (65 Ml) 2 Tbsp (30 Ml) 2 Tsp 1 Head

Coconut Milk Peanut Butter Cloves Garlic 15 Ml Lemon Or Lime, Juiced Soy Sauce Hot Water Brown Sugar Fish Sauces Iceberg Lettuce (Or Other Leafy Lettuce) Lime Wedges

Cilantro leaves and Sesame Seeds for garnish

Method On a clean cutting board, de-bone the chicken thighs and remove skin and excess fat. Cut chicken into 1 inch strips and place in a small glass or stainless steel bowl. Add the minced garlic, chili, cilantro and sesame oil Add the oil and season well with salt and pepper. Stir and allow to sit for 15 minutes to marinate. In a mixing bowl, combine the coconut milk, peanut butter, garlic, lemon or lime juice, soy sauce, water, brown sugar and fish sauce. Stir well to make a smooth paste. Soak wooden skewers in cold water for at least 10 minutes. Skewer the chicken thighs to make 8-12 skewers. Heat your BBQ to medium high, place the skewers on the grill and cook for 2-3 minutes per side, or until the chicken is firm and browned. Remove from heat. Serve with large leaves of iceberg (or romaine lettuce) and peanut sauce with a side garnish of lime wedges, cilantro and a sprinkling of sesame seeds.

ALL Month! (Excludes Valentine’s Day)...

Join us for Valentines Weekend for Delicious Features and Wine Pairing TUESDAY – Burger & Beer $10 WEDNESDAY – Halibut & Chips $10 THURSDAY - $5 Appy Night is Back!

Call for Reservations 250-597-4353

LOCATED AT BLUENOSE MARINA 1765 COWICHAN BAY RD WATERFRONT DINING • INSPIRED WEST COAST CUISINE

Look what’s NEW!

WEEKEND BRUNCH Every Saturday & Sunday 9:30 am to 3:30 pm Wine & Dine for $69 Every Thursday after 5pm Steak & Lobster for 2 with a bottle of Wine Call and book your Reservation 778-356-3568 740 Handy Road, Mill Bay

www.bridgemans.ca

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

Soups • Stews • Croissants • Crepes & more!

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

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

Eat, Drink and Support Local

celebrate love with

Our favourite sparkler pick for Valentines is Jubilee – our Rose sparkling. Made from a blend of Pinot Noir and Pinot Gris it was the result of a near disaster in one of our vineyards. In 2010 the starlings engaged in an all-out assault on one of our vineyards consuming over 95% of all the grapes right through the bird netting. We picked the remaining 5% - combining the Pinot Gris and Pinot Noir, and decided to make it sparkling as the birds had eaten the ripest grapes and left the higherTASTINGS BY APPOINTMENT ONLY acid / lower sugar grapes for FOR JANUARY & FEBRUARY us. This was made in the traditional method and has an abundance of fine bubbles. The aromas include raspberry, strawberry and apple, and the creamy palate has hints of rose petals and a dry slightly mineral finish. Great paired with prosciutto wrapped melon, prunes or dates stuffed with kalamata olives and goat cheese, also great with soft cheese and popcorn! It’s available for $24 at the winery – www.rockycreekwinery.ca

A 100% Island Pinot Noir Sparkler to celebrate the most romantic day of the year. Impress your lover with apples, citrus, hints of clove and crème fraiche on the nose, followed by green apple and orange peel on the palate. This bright and delicious bubbly has a dense and generous mouthfeel serve it chilled with duck, foiegras, linguini with clams, creamy cheeses, or tart desserts. $23.95 www.unsworthvineyards.com

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

local sparklers

All of our sparkling wines are made in the traditional champagne method. They are fermented in the bottle, left en tirage for a minimum of 12 months, then hand riddled and disgorged at our winery by Jim!

Let’s begin with Glenora Fantasia Brut. This is the first sparkling wine Zanatta ever made and 24 vintages later we are still making this crisp and fresh tasting sparkler. It is made using Cayuga grapes giving this wine its granny smith apple flavour. Combine the apple flavour with the prolonged aging on the yeast and you have a slightly buttered toast and apple flavour in your glass. Excellent bubbles of course. Serve it with any appetizer, any crustaceans or cheese and you will be complimented! Price $28.50 at our wine shop. Brut Tradizionale: Truly traditional. We use only the traditional grapes used in Champagne for Champagne; Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. Gently pressed, delicately handled, and 5 years of aging in the bottle makes this wine rich while still delicate. Tradizionale is versatile. It is excellent with appetizers, but can also be served with many

desserts such as pastries. Price: $28.95 at our wine shop

Taglio Rosso Brut: This is a unique wine close to the Zanatta heart. It was originally a red blend for Loretta’s grandmother. But after “Nonna’s” passing we decided to make the same blend as a champagne, hence the full name of Taglio Rosso della Nonna. The blend uses Castel and Cabernet grapes, bottled young and only left one year before disgorging. It is rich and dark with hints of espresso and cacao while the wild berry still comes boldly forward. Great choice with duck and lamb, and calls out for chocolate. Price: $36.00 at the winery. Of course all of our wines are made using Cowichan Valley grapes. www.zanatta.ca

Celebration from Enrico Winery is made in the Charmat method, from a blend of our Pinot Gris & Pinot Noir grapes. This refreshing Sparkling wine can be enjoyed immediately, through its floral & citrus aromas, gold/ champagne colour and elegant finish with a touch of sweetness at the end. enricowinery.com

This Rosé may not bubble from the inside but it sparkles on the palate nonetheless! This bright and lively blend is 100% Gamay Noir from Vancouver Island. There is a stiff backbone of rhubarb like acidity, balanced with a soft strawberry undercurrent. Enjoy with smoked or grilled salmon, cheeses, quiche or soufflés. Look for Blue Grouse Sparkling to be released during our Grand Opening in May 2015! www.bluegrouse.ca

las! The days are now 2 minutes longer! That’s 120 seconds! I feel energized already and no longer needing the whole Vitamin D tab. Really, please bring in light whenever possible. But careful what you wish for. Artists and most creative types prefer the northern light as it casts shadows of interest across objects and walls creating different moods and what appears to be different wall shades of colour. The direct south and western light can be harsh, even burning and offensive and certainly damaging in many ways to anything of value. So key is light angle and intensity. Always provide natural light from two sides of every room. Otherwise all features will appear in shadow when looking out.

When it becomes impossible to provide light from the second side, then skylights are a great option. The trick is to attach the skylight well to an adjacent wall. Not just to extend the height of the wall, but to use the wall as a reflector and transmitter of this wonderful source.

Then in the evening, create a light valence with some indirect light that mimics this daytime shaft of visual splendor and you will never be without. Clerestory and piano windows, those high windows over doors and you guessed it, pianos, are also great for bringing in tree top or mountain top perspectives without the added glare of the sun. This allows the light to reach far into a room to reflect again off walls and objects which suddenly become a light source in themselves and still provide curtain less privacy. Today’s fascination with seamless shower doors and floor to ceiling glass with flush shower entries adds to this illusion of never ending light that can often be illuminated by as little as a 24” square (60 cm) skylight. If placed over a shower stall, the shaft can add visual height to a room as well and for cleaning, well heck, you already have the spray hose and squeegee handy so don’t complain. A splayed or enlarged opening inside the home allows for less shadow and increases the light volume exponentially. Again purchase quality skylights with up to triple glazing if possible because you have just compromised your attic

DESIGNI NG green LET THERE BE LIGHT!

Image David Coulson

insulation by over 75%. Todays skylights have become very affordable. Demand Low E and Argon filled sealed units as a minimum and if oriented west or south, be sure to include ‘solar bronze’, a very light but UV reflective tint to them. The cost for skylights are now about half of what they were 20 years ago and far more efficient. They can easily be installed into existing roofs less than 10 years old fairly quickly but best installed at re-roofing stage. The toughest and costliest part is dry walling the light shaft, repainting the ceiling and insulating the shaft from the attic side. A less glamorous but far cheaper install are the ‘solar tubes’ of various names that provide quick

and direct shafts of light to hard to reach spots in the house. They certainly look less architectural inside and on the roof but they are about ½ the price or less of a small skylight. There is always your local travel agent. An affordable travel company like Whittome’s or Marlin Travel will take you to the beach of your choice. They have both looked after me and my family for years and like they say, there is no dust to clean up afterwards!

sutton group • west coast realty

250.748.5000 2610 Beverly Street Duncan, BC

toni@tonib.ca

www.ToniB.ca

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

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.

www.cabinetbed.ca

107 INGRAM STREET, DUNCAN TEL: 250 746 5527 WWW.MERITDUNCAN.CA INFO@MERITDUNCAN.CA 15

Kuan Jian Foo is a long time Valley resident and father of three. He is also a founding member of the worker’s cooperative, Viridian Energy. (http://www. viridianenergy.ca)

id you know that the Cowichan Valley is now the unofficial solar capital of B.C? It now has the most grid-tied solar electric systems in B.C. and it happened almost overnight.... In the fall of 2014, through the Viridian Energy Co-Operative, the Cowichan Carbon Busters and Alternative Electric, over 200 kilowatts of solar power was purchased to be installed in the valley. That’s enough power to supply 16 homes full

time..... for 40 years or more. (BC Hydro states that the average BC home uses 13,700kWh/year) That’s amazing in itself but the really wonderful thing is that it all happened through ordinary Cowichan Valley residents with no government incentives, rebates or assistance. It seems that the price on solar photovoltaic systems has come down enough that more and more people are taking the plunge. A recent article in the Guardian helps to confirm this. Globally, investment in green energy in 2014 was the same as 2011 at $310 billion, however, that money bought almost double the capacity of clean electricity compared to that year. The article goes further to say that, “Solar was the biggest single contributor, thanks to

Is Solar Right For Your Home Thinking of generating electricity with Solar?

It’s all about LOCATION, LOCATION, LOCATION... South facing roof slope or south facing field and an open unobstructed solar exposure 9am to 3pm

How much does it cost?

Viridian Energy’s last bulk buy, starter systems (2.35kW) went for about $8 000.

First Steps

It’s a big investment, so Viridian Energy Cooperative encourages homeowners to book a comprehensive Solar Electric Site Analysis.

Spring 2015 Bulk Buy

If it’s right for you sign up for our Spring Bulk Buy to get the best pricing on Solar Equipment and installation.

For more info visit www.viridianenergy.ca

Local solar install

Here Comes The Sun huge improvements in its costcompetitiveness over the last five years.”

and they are supporting the local green economy by using local companies to do so.

While there is a good financial case for investing in solar, it goes beyond just the economics. People are stepping up and investing their hard earned money in something they believe in. Something harder to put your finger on but something that a lot of Cowichan Valley residents understand. Things like independence, resilience, climate change, co-operation and community. It’s a complex web of ideas and values that many Valley residents share.

Most important of all, their investments are helping to address climate change, carbon neutrality and cleaning the air. Many of the solar owners already own or plan to own and charge their electrical vehicles on electricity they generate at home. Others are adding back-up systems to continuing power their homes when the grid goes down which seems to happen more now with the changing climate and extreme weather. Simply put, they are investing in independence, resilience and are pioneering the way for our future generations.

Looking at the CVRD Environment Commission’s 12 things website (www.12things. ca), local solar energy investment checks off at least 6 of the 12 environment commission big ideas. By investing in solar, residents really are leading the way and making real changes on the personal level. They are being energy smart by conserving and producing their own power

The best part is that its spreading. Spreading through and beyond the valley. More than ever before, we are getting calls from all over the Island, the mainland and throughout BC. People from all walks of life are making investments that make sense and returns beyond the dollar.

For full design/build service, give us a call

 250.746.5372 • coulsondesign@shaw.ca • www.davidcoulsondesign.com 16

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



W t i N d a t i s a a w i v

T o i s n e l a h

T o

Small is Beautiful. Image Alicia Taylor

The Tiny Home Revolution is Here!

he tiny home revolution is about to sweep the Cowichan. Are you ready? While not exactly a new concept, tiny homes have become increasingly popular across North America over the last two decades as housing prices soar and people make lifestyle choices toward small footprint living. An increasing number of people are seriously considering this option as more than a recreational home away from home. The tiny home wave is about to hit the Cowichan in a new form â&#x20AC;&#x201C; a tiny home village. The Tiny Home Village Cooperative is a new initiative intended as a small-scale, sustainable, residential neighbourhood designed to model eco-friendly living, co-operative lifestyles, and modest-income affordability in a rural microhome park setting. The Tiny Home Village Cooperative will be an equity land

co-op designed for 10 to 12 tiny home residential sites. The co-op will own the land and provide services to member residents. Members will lease a home site from the co-op and be responsible for financing and building their own micro home. Solar power, community gardens and other forms of green living will be incorporated into the site plan and encouraged in home design. A local group is forming. If the tiny home lifestyle speaks to you - then speak to us. An information session will be held on Thursday, February 26, from 7 to 9 pm in the meeting room at Cowichan Green Community, 360 Duncan St.. For more information, contact Joy Emmanuel at joye@telus.net Joy is a co-operative developer, intentional community advocate, and soon-to-be tiny home resident.

Return to a clean home and workplace.

Giving you back the luxury of time and a naturally clean home to enjoy it in! Providing professional, eco friendly cleaning services.

250 929 8381 www.cleanchoicecleaners.com Licensed - Insured - Bonded

Green Living

Home Cleaning Gift Certiﬁcates available for Family & Friends!

My Favourite Things…

to your cleaning arsenal. For approximately $100.00-$150.00 you’re getting a tool that will sanitize your floors, not just cleaning them but the high heat also kills viruses, bacteria and mold. Leaving them shiny My favourite recent clean and streak free. They purchase has been typically come with washable, “Maggie” our robotic reusable microfiber mop pads vacuum. Maggie is and some even have convenient amazing at keeping our attachments for steaming floors dog hair and dust upholstery, draperies, shower bunny free. It’s truly a wonderful sight to watch walls, and even windows. Plus her work her way around they’re fun to use, who doesn’t the house. Maggie is so smart she love that! knows how to switch from floor to Of course my absolute favorite carpet, how not to suck up fringes has to be the times when I put on area rugs, not to go down a my house on our work schedule flight of stairs, and her newest and someone else cleans for versions will even stay out of the me, ha! kid’s bedrooms so she doesn’t eat their lego. She really gets into the corners and under all the furniture, Happy Valentine’s Day! and she can do it all on her own, while we’re out! I love Maggie. Tracey Hanson n the spirit of Valentine’s I wanted to share some of the things I love that also help keep my home clean.

My next favourite item is a steam mop. They have become so reasonably priced and readily available, while they’re no “Maggie”, they are a great addition

ow is that time of the year, between the excitement of the holidays and the rush of Spring, that we often find a quiet moment for reflection. Now, you may not find yourself reflecting on the state of the electronics recycling industry in British Columbia. But I do. A lot. Particularly, today I want to help dispel a few myths about electronics recycling in BC and hopefully help divert even more hazardous waste out of our landfills.

Recycling Electronics

Myth: Environmental Handling Fees are just a hidden tax by the government. The fees are actually collected by the industry in accordance with the Electronic Products Recycling Association (EPRA). The EPRA is a national not-for-profit entity that oversees the recycling of electronics in Canada. The fees do not go to the government at all, and 100% goes to pay for the administration, collection, transportation, and responsible recycling of electronics. Myth: Recycled electronics simply get shipped overseas and dismantled in unsafe environments. All electronics collected in BC at EPRA affiliated locations are sent to approved primary recyclers in North America! These facilities must adhere to strict standards for dealing with substances of concern (mercury, lead, etc.) and ensure that usable materials (glass, plastics, metals) are recycled into the manufacturing stream. Not only that, but all of their downstream processors are also subject to the highest levels of adherence to environmental, occupational health and safety, export and other standards.

Myth: Electronic recycling processes are too expensive and not much can be salvaged anyway. local mompreneur Actually, aside from cheaper and owner/operator materials such as glass and Clean Choice Ecoplastics, electronics contain Friendly Cleaning Services many valuable metals that cleanchoicecleaners. can be salvaged and recycled. com

This means less mining and destruction of the natural environment. And technologies for recycling e-waste are continually improving, leading to increased efficiency and sustainability of the programs. Technology continues to advance at an incredible rate, which means that more and more waste is being produced. Thankfully we have a great, safe system for recycling electronics in BC. In fact, for the 2010 Olympics in Vancouver, all of the medals were produced using recycled electronic waste...amazing! So, now you have no excuses! It’s time to bring in that old laptop, TV, VCR (why do you still have that?!), camera, fax machine... or that annoying beeping and flashing kid’s toy that doesn’t beep or flash so well anymore! If after all this you still have questions, you can find more information on our website here: www.islandreturnit.com/ programs/electronics Or, you can visit the EPRA BC website here: www. recyclemyelectronics.ca/bc

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

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

Re purpose Old Furniture Faves at The Shawnigan Vintage Barn!

EYE ON Shawnigan A

s a professional graphic designer for almost 3 decades, Lisa Smith owner of the Shawnigan Vintage Barn brings a discerning eye to the collection of antiques treasures and vintage items found in her store. Lisa, who hails from the UK used to collect and consign in antiques stores in the England. Eventually her interest in antiques Re opens February 11! and her creativity as an artist led her to painting and Steak restoring furniture by & lobster $24.99 commission. Now, 20 years and hundreds of refinished pieces later Now booking Valentine’s Day Lisa has found that it truest passion. Weekend February 13,14 & 15 is“I her love to take a really 2744 Shawnigan Lake Rd old piece that most (250) 743-1887 people would put www.steeplesrestaurant.ca on the burn pile and transform it.” smiles the designer “My husband nearly died when he come home from to work - to find I had completely knocked a wall 2750 Shawnigan Lake Road out in the kitchen, TAKE OUT - (250) 743-1669 repainted the front of www.shawnigansushi.blogspot.ca the house a different colour and replastered the bathroom, Mediterranean style” Besides refinishing

furniture Lisa also produces custom vintage road signs and advertising boards. “I make all of my own stencils etc, so my pieces really are unique.” Her new addition to the business community of Shawnigan Lake, was inspired by commission clients. “My customers would ask me if they could see other work when they were picking up their pieces, so I decided late to convert the barn into a shop. It’s very rustic right, but we’ve had such an overwhelming response that we are already considering expanding into the other half of the building. People are pleasantly surprised when they actually step inside.” shares Lisa. “Most of the comments I get are that customers are really sick of “throw away” furniture. They want something more solid and I believe old furniture, re-done really well is becoming more

and more popular.” We are supposed to be a recycling society - so what better way to be a“green” business. I don’t travel to work, so less pollution and I recycle old furniture and other peoples junk - perfect! Visit Shawnigan Vintage Barn on Baden Powell Rd, Shawnigan Lake. For more info call Lisa at 250-929-6699. Images; Front of Barn Studio. 2nd image; Hall/vanity stand made from an old door, a 4 poster bed, a headboard, an old chair and coffee table by Lisa Smith

FREE DESSERT ON VALENTINE’S WEEKEND (Fri.Sat/Sun) WITH RESERVATIONS MADE BEFORE FEBRUARY 12TH.

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

Should I Hire A Personal Trainer?

he advantages of personal training are summed up in one word: results! Let’s examine the top four ways personal training delivers faster, better results:

derailing your fitness goals with an injury. Hugely important for individuals new or returning to exercise, or recovering from a previous injury or illness.

1. Sticking to it! It generally takes 4-6 weeks for the results of exercise to show. Many people quit the gym after one month because they decide it’s not working right when results develop. Or, people become confused, overwhelmed, and/or bored and quit. Personal training eliminates the overwhelm, resulting in more time exercising instead of pondering how to exercise, which increases your commitment, and commitment equals results. Simple.

3. Personal training prevents wasting time on ineffective workouts. Often, people lift too little weight to cause a muscular change. With a trainer, you will lift more weight, but not so much that you injure yourself! Moreover, many people ‘cheat’ on exercises. Cheating on an exercise means you are not really doing the exercise (gasp!). A trainer will prevent cheating, increasing the results the exercise was designed for.

2. Less risk of injury. Working with a trainer means you will not do exercises that are potentially harmful to your joints, unwittingly

4. Coaching. You will receive a personalized exercise program, as well as personal coaching for nutrition, recipes, lifestyle design, time

management, community resources, and tons of extra information and support. In a good trainer, you access someone who is happily preoccupied with everything health and fitness, and is constantly thinking about how

to best deliver your desired results. Cait Wilde, BA Kinesiology and Health Studies, BCRPA Weight Trainer caitwilde.com

What the Heck is a Birth Doula? don’t catch babies!

Crone and Child Psychosis diagnosis? Hardly… You have witnessed my attempt To reach inside and Frantically…repeatedly…breathlessly… Grope for that flint rock Swaddled in linen between my breasts, Flint rock to rebirth my spark… Flint rock implanted by ancestors in wheat fields. My spark Will kindle and then, remembering, fan my crone’s flame. I need a light and I need a pick To chip ice shards, To finally remove the entombed child, The child who has fossilized Inside my incidental glaciers; The child interred within my Age of Ice, Within my debris of depression; my detritus of despair. With my blue tinged fingertips and my purpled lips, With my crone’s magic, I will resurrect my child. And feel whole…again and forever. My mistake was to discard warnings of climate change, And oh, how my climate did change! Psychosis diagnosis? Hardly… You are witnessing my desire to dance Naked in abandonment of convention. Patricia Mackay is a poet and creative non-fiction writer living in Duncan.

GOLDA’S LITERACY NUGGETS “Learning to read after so long is like walking into light from darkness.” A young woman of Jahan Shah, Afghanistan

info@gopesto.com I www.gopesto.com

hen I tell people what I do, I’m often met with one of the following responses: “a doo-what?”, “is that like a midwife?” or increasingly “that’s great!” To the third person, thanks, I agree! Unfortunately many misconceptions exist about what a doula does, who doulas serve, and whether there’s any benefit or if we’re just another trend for “crunchy” folks. Let’s start with what a birth doula does. In short, we provide informational, emotional and physical support to expectant families through birth into parenthood. We’re like friends or sisters who have birth experience, know exactly where to massage, and have many tricks up our sleeves for everything before, during and after the birth. You can call us at 2am with questions and expect empathy and information. You can trust we’ll stay calm and support your partner to be your rock. We don’t do anything medical, and unless there’s nobody there in time, we

With that said, let’s clear up another misconception - as a birth doula I don’t just attend home births (though I love to!). I will attend any birth, regardless of birth setting or choices. I’m not here to tell you how to birth, I’m here to support YOUR baby’s birth. My biggest wishes are for every family to feel safe, loved and supported, have positive feelings around their baby’s birth and for everyone to have access to doulas. Now for the best part - the research shows amazing benefits! Statistics show women who choose doulas are less likely to need pain medications, birth with vacuum or forceps, give birth by cesarean, have a baby with a poor Apgar score or feel negatively about their birth. Women are also more likely to give birth spontaneously and have a shorter labor. Who wouldn’t want that? For more information about doulas, or my specific services, check out my website at www.tigerlilydoula. com, or send me an email at tigerlilybirth@gmail.com.

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

Stephanie Cutler is a mother, birth doula, and owner of TigerLily Doula Services. 250-710-2489

Restore Your Health with

Traditional Chinese Medicine Acupuncture & Diet Therapy

offers all aspects of TCM, such as acupuncture, acupressure, cupping, moxibustion, gua-sha, tui-na, healing with whole foods dietary implementation, facial rejuvenation acupuncture and community acupuncture. “Wu Wei means ‘action without action’ and is the root of Chinese philosophy, which is the root of TCM,” smiles Frauke. “My interest in studying Chinese medicine came from my experiences of living with Shaolin monks, attending a non-medical practitioner schools and my strong belief in healing with nature. I believe we come from nature and we go back into nature. Nature is simple and so is the philosophy of TCM. Acupuncture is a tool to connect the broken links within the body. The beauty of TCM is that we treat each person as one unique individual. And each illness is slightly different to each person.”

Dr. Fei Yang 250-733-2917 www.drfeiyang.ca

Wu Wei Acupuncture and Acupressure

rauke McCashin offers a wealth of holistic wisdom to her Valley clients. She began in Vienna, Austria where her practice offered homeopathy, herbology, chiropractic techniques, reflexology, neural therapy, lymph drainage and Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM). “After moving to Canada, I intensified my studies with all aspects of TCM and Jin Shen Do Acupressure with a specialization in facial rejuvenation,” shares Frauke. “In 2011 I became a National Acupuncture Detoxification Association (NADA) specialist.” Seeing a direct need for healing, she volunteered the NADAprotocol to AIDS Vancouver Island in Victoria and to the Warmland Shelter in Duncan. The success of her work as a community healer thrives with her community acupuncture clinic on Tuesday and Wednesdays in Duncan . Her clinic Wu Wei Acupuncture & Acupressure

To learn more about Frauke’s services or to book in for community acupuncture contact her at mccashin@ telus.net or by phone at 250-710-3581.

Is Reading And Spelling Problem?

hen reading problems to a varying degree. exist – the school Phonemic awareness ability offers answers such as can be evaluated by testing. Guided Reading and Intensive The LAC-3 assessment is Phonics approaches. Some one of the evaluations used to of these programs have some measure phonemic awareness. success, but, we still see those If their phonemic awareness who remain non-readers. skill is weak, there is a These non-readers are often solution. diagnosed with a Don’t let difficulties with Learning Disability, reading, spelling, or Dyslexia, or with a Reading Disorder. comprehension

.com Jennifer Shelley

•

250 710 5674

affordable sliding scale fees

www.makecheese.ca

The Problem… Studies have shown us that deficits in phonemic awareness (also known as auditory conceptualization) is the reason individuals struggle with reading and spelling. Phonemic awareness is the ability to identify sounds in a word, the numbers of sounds and the order or location of sounds in a word, and the identity of that sound. It is important to know that phonemic awareness appears throughout the population without linkage to race, sex, or socio-economic class, but is often found to be familial. Individuals who have phonemic awareness deficits may add, omit, substitute, and/or reverse sounds and letters when they are reading or spelling. Example: girl may become gril Steam may become stream. Phonemic awareness deficits will make an individual not able to judge if what they see matches what they say…….. or………what they say matches what they see. This is directly related to their literacy skills. Thirty percent (30%) of our population have a phonemic awareness deficit

control your life

The Solution… The Lindamood Phoneme Sequencing (Lips) techniques is a multisensory program for students in preschool through adulthood who need explicit, direct, systematic instruction to develop phonological abilities. Using an oral-motor, visual and auditory feedback system, the Lips Technique develops the student’s ability to distinguish phonemes(single speech sounds) in spoken patterns. In teaching sound symbol associations, the Lips technique progresses from articulatory movements- to sounds- to letters. Students explore the physical movements involved in producing sounds and learn to hear, see, and feel the physical characteristics of sounds and to notice the contrasts between them. Lips techniques build on previous knowledge to introduce new skills and frequently spirals back to review until mastery. This program is for children and adults that have problems reading and spelling. www.dgpsychliteracy.com Dona Billingsley, R.Psych #1854, Cert.Teacher, co-owner D & G Psychological and Literacy Service

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

Dr. Gordon Neufeld

Navigating The Pitfalls and Potentials of Parenting in the Digital World

y favourite childhood memories are the simple things: the hours my brothers and I spent swimming in the summer, jumping off the diving board, bobbing on canoe gunnels, and trying to knock each other off an inner tube while standing up; making strawberry jam with my grandma; listening to my Dad’s stories that he made up just for us; playing cards or playing tag for hours on end on long lazy holidays. It turns out these things aren’t “just play”; they are essential for growing us up. Many kids today are so consumed by their digital devices and social media that they do not have the time or the interest for such simple pursuits. One of the biggest complaints I hear from parents and teachers in my counseling office and in my courses is that they have lost their child(ren) to media in all its forms. Many fear that limiting their access will cause such a large rebellion that it will threaten the relationship. The challenge with children having access

to digital devices and social media is that it often leaves no room for what is required for healthy development: It steals their time for expressive and exploratory play, robs them of downtime and their ability to truly rest from the pressures of their peers and the world, and often they lose their desire to connect with their families.

• Reading Disorder • Dyslexia • Reading Disability Call now for information and early appointments

We are fortunate that Dr. Gordon Neufeld, a prominent developmental psychologist, author (Hold on to Your Kids), and foremost authority on child development, is coming back to the Cowichan Valley on February 11th,. His presentation, “Raising Children in a Digital World” will address the digital revolution and its implications on parenting and teaching. Call the Cowichan Ticket Centre for details 250-748-7529, www.cowichantheatre.ca. Heather Ferguson is a Registered Clinical Counsellor with a private practice at the Matraea Centre in Duncan heatherfergusonconsulting.com

“Standing, sitting, walking, in meditation, insight arises, awakening within” Namaste Support Nichiren Buddha Society at www.begiving.ca/charities

Weekly Meditation Thursdays, VIU Cowichan Campus, 7PM, Rm: 210 Seven Annual Retreats Info: 250. 710 7594

Messages of Love

Dear Lisa, How do I tell my new girlfriend that I’m not into Valentines Day? What do I do if she’s into it? From, Cupid-itis Dear Cupid, Take a moment and decide if skipping valentines day is your preference or an ethical dilemma. And by ethical dilemma, I mean deal-breaker, as in ‘I cannot date a woman who likes V-Day because V-Day is wrong.’ Be completely honest. After you have your answer, ask your girlfriend her preference using a neutral question like ‘Do you like to celebrate Valentine’s Day?’ If she says any form of yes, including ‘sure’, ‘yeah, I don’t mind it’ or, ‘yeah but we’ve only been dating for a month so it’s no big deal’, and the two of you are ethically opposed, break up and move on. If it is mere preference on your part, celebrate it anyway. Why? Because this isn’t really about Valentines Day, it is about how you want her to be around you. Women who give in to their deepest feelings in the moment are sensual and radiant. If you have a ‘discussion’ about why or why not to celebrate V-Day, then no matter the compromise you come to, you’ll be looking at her, reasoning herself out of her feelings from behind a Lisa is a men’s dating strong front, instead of the coach in Duncan, BC. raw, sensual woman you She offers sessions in fell for. Trust me, it’ll be person and over the worth it. phone.More Q&A on www.asubtleart.com.

ZEN PRACTICE IN DUNCAN Those interested in Zen Buddhist practice, study and training are invited to contact: BodhiDharma@shaw.ca

ou are at a social event. You see that special person that has interested you for some time now. You feel your heart form a special love message. It feels like a beautiful butterfly and you send it off to that person with hope and joyful expectation. They turn away. What just happened? If you have a heart-wall, that beautiful butterfly you sent had to make its way through that wall. By the time it can be seen by another, your butterfly may be looking more like a gargoyle or some other unattractive creature. What is a heart-wall? It is a barrier that your subconscious mind creates to protect you from influences that could break your heart and even threaten your life. Your mind and body are continually working to keep you safe. The trouble is, once you have created a wall of protection, it stays in place even after it is no longer needed. It remains a barrier to your enjoyment of optimum health and well-being. Heart-walls are made up of clusters of trapped emotions. Trapped emotions are those emotions that we have

not fully expressed. They stick in our energy fields and vibrate at low levels of frequency. Left in place long enough, they affect even our physical form, contributing to various illnesses and chronic conditions. Dr. Bradley Nelson developed The Emotion Code to help us remove obstacles to our wellbeing. It is his mission to help everyone who is suffering to release the trapped emotions and imbalances that are holding us back. Go to healerslibrary.com to learn more. This Valentine’s Day, make sure that your love messages are seen and received as the beautiful butterflies that have formed in your heart. Let your expressions of love start with yourself. For an appointment, call or email David Yaeger, Certified Emotion Code Practitioner. 250-597-3686. davidyaeger650@gmail.com

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

( b t o b w C o t i o c i d H d b c o b A r

H a 3 A t o r

T f a t

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

Tea With Heart

s the second most drank beverage in the world (after water), tea is consumed by millions of people across the globe every day. The origins of tea drinking dates back thousands of years when Buddhist monks in China discovered the benefits of steeping the leaves from the Camellia sinensis plant in water. The naturally occurring L-theanine and caffeine assisted the monks in maintaining their alertness during hours of meditation. Herbalists then also discovered the multiple health benefits associated with the consumption of tea. The ritual of drinking and enjoying tea began spreading throughout Asia and then slowly to the rest of the world. Here in the West, our love affair with tea started almost 350 years ago. And, in North America, our admiration for this amazing beverage is on a marked rise. A healthy rise, that is, as our daily cup

contains polyphenols, and, more specifically flavonoids - antioxidants that can aid in maintaining a healthy heart. Whether black or green, the health benefits associated with tea are many. Multiple studies have shown that people who drink black tea on a daily basis have a reduced risk of heart disease. Recent studies, however, also point out the advantages of green tea when it comes to maintaining heart health. We invite you to celebrate heart month with a daily cup of tea. Enjoy the many different black and green teas available and take the time to enjoy a relaxing cup with friends and family. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s for the health of your heart.

Margit and Victor grow tea culture in the Cowichan Valley. www.teafarm.ca

Footnote:

The Tea Association of Canada published an interesting article focusing on tea and heart health â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Tea and Cardiovascular Health - www.tea.ca/tea-health/tea-and-cardiovascular-health. You can also find this article and more information on our blog at www. teafarm.ca

Fall in love with Downtown Duncan this February Leaf & Petal

alentine’s Day is right around the corner and if it’s the traditional February 14th trifecta you’re after, Downtown Duncan has got you covered with flowers, chocolate, and a romantic dinner. If you really want to make an impression, Leaf & Petal is the place to buy floral Rembrandt’s Chocolates art...floral arrangement doesn’t even begin to describe their stunning selections. Check out their fabulous website to see what they offer for Valentines Day. Choose from designs with names like Bed of Roses, Circles of Love, For my Sweetie, and Pretty & Pink - there’s even a Valentine’s version of their extremely popular take-out arrangement box as

well. For chocolate, you’ll want to go to Rembrandt’s. Hand-crafted in our very own Cowichan Valley, this long-time downtown shop has gold-stamped and gold-tied boxes of one dozen Rembrandt embossed chocolates that anyone would be thrilled to receive...and hopefully they’ll feel like sharing. And for romantic ambience Hudson’s on First is an excellent choice for a very special meal. Come and see why this beautifully restored heritage house restaurant has won so many awards. Experience their award-winning combination of a warm welcome along with fresh, local & simple ingredients. Reservations are recommended... and you can even make them online (if more than 24 hrs ahead).

If you prefer daylight to candlelight, did you know Hudson’s has a brunch on both Saturdays & Sundays from 10am -2? Come celebrate some special time

Hudson’s On First

with your loved one(s) while enjoying fabulous favourites like Eggs Benedict, Organic Egg Omelette, Full English Breakfast or Brioche French Toast. Of course, there are many other wonderful restaurants and cafes downtown in which to enjoy a great meal on February 14th …or any other day. We may not be a big city, but for our size we have a great selection of multi-cultural options if you’re in the mood to go cosmopolitan. Within a few square blocks, here’s a sampling of the delicious international dishes you can enjoy in Downtown Duncan: • Bangkok Pad Thai at Sai’s Place Spice Café • Samosa’s & Pakora’s at The Royal Dar • Sweet & Sour Prawns or Egg Foo Young at the Woodland Café (dinner buffet Friday & Saturday) • Korean BBQ at Danji Izakaya Sushi Bar • and perhaps the most aptly named entrée for Valentine’s – the Love Boat Deluxe at Nha Trang. This boat is built for two to share and includes sushi, sashimi, teriyaki chicken,

tempura & gyoza with soup, rice & salad. Perhaps after sharing the Love Boat you’ll want to share a little something from Sheer Essentials Lingerie & Swimwear. A unique gift idea for Valentine’s Day is the super comfy, yet sexy, Hanky Panky thongs that come wrapped like longstemmed roses – she’ll love a pair (or more!) of these – guaranteed. As always, free gift-wrapping is provided and for Valentine’s Day, any gift card purchase comes with a complimentary box of

Embellish

chocolates as well. And…don’t forget the card! A specially chosen card with just the right words can be a very significant gift. Many shops downtown carry lovely and unique cards for various occasions including: Embellish, Leaf & Petal, Imagine That, Monk Office, Pharmasave, Volume One, and Wishes. Downtown Duncan has everything you need to make February and Valentine’s Day extra special for the special people in your life – what’s not to love about that?

hoodies I skirts I tops I dresses accessories I childrens & more

FEBRUARY FOX FAIR febRUARY 6th 5 pm - 9 pm febRUARY 7th 10 pm - 4 pm Fernwood Community Centre 1240 Gladstone Ave, Victoria

FIND us LOCALLY at Spinning Ninny 306 Duncan St, Duncan

WHO DO YOU LOVE? Weʻll be making baby cakes for Valentineʻs Day.

They serve 2-4 people, are 3 inches around, are $15, and will have a heart on them.

YOU SHOULD PROBABLY ORDER ONE. We can’t fit more than about 3 letters on the top of these little guys, but they all say ‘CAKE!’ without even trying. They’re almost entirely organic, too, so you show your love for the earth, too. GLUTEN FREE HAZELNUT TORTE is a little square, with the layers of hazelnut covered with chocolate ganache, then layered up with whipped cream or coconut cream LEMON RASPBERRY TORTE is another little square, a nut free and gluten free sponge cake covered with lemon curd, raspberry jam, and whipped cream or coconut cream. CARROT SPELT our ALL-TIME favourite, with our not-too-sweet Cream Cheese icing. The CHOCOLATE CLASSIC, one of our chocolate cakes (choose vegan, which is round, or gluten-free, which is square) filled with cream or coconut cream and enrobed in chocolate ganache, or Chocolate Mocha, which is the same cake with mocha cream or coconut cream. We’ll also be making some special Valentine’s cupcakes and cookies. It’s sweet to show the love!

Q & A with Moby Amarsi – owner of Caprice Cinema in Duncan DBIA: You are the enthusiastic new owner of the Caprice Cinema in Duncan – when did you purchase the theatre? MA: June 2014 DBIA: What changes has the theatre undergone since you took ownership? MA: We’ve brought in digital projection, digital sound and a special lens and screen that give us 3D capability. We’ve made cosmetic updates to the exterior, the bathrooms have been upgraded, cup-holders have been added to seats, hours have been extended (including being open 365 days a year) and we’ve dropped the prices 10-15% across the board DBIA: Any further changes planned? MA: We hope to replace the seats in the near future and begin “Movies for Mommies” in the next few months. DBIA: That sounds interesting – can you tell me a little more? MA: Once a month at 10 or 11 in the morning, we will show a specially selected movie and provide a welcoming atmosphere for moms, babies, and toddlers by keeping the theatre a little brighter. Moms will be welcome to come and nurse or even walk with their babies in the aisles if they need to.

DBIA: What’s the best thing about being an independent theatre? MA: The flexibility. We are able to cater to all sorts of groups like birthday parties and special showings for school groups. DBIA: Who decides what movies to show at the theater and how is that decision made? MA: I make that decision by first checking how a movie is tracking in the media, then I track the local demographics and then choose what I think is the best fit. DBIA: What were the 3 most popular movies is Duncan last year? MA: 1) Guardians of the Galaxy 2) The Hunger Games 3) The Hobbit DBIA: What is your favourite movie of all time? MA: The Hobbit

The Caprice Theatre is at 404 Duncan St, Duncan 778-855-7867

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

our clients

Happy February Big Brothers and Sisters

am part of the Big Brothers Big Sisters organization, a not-for-profit, Mentoring Program. This is my fourth year of involvement as a volunteer in the Senior For Kids Mentoring Program. The program starts with a rigorous background check, an in depth orientation meeting, then the school counsellor, agency staff, teachers, and principal decide which child best fits with the each Senior Mentor. In 2010, a good friend brought to my attention this program and suggested that I look into it. As a recently retired teacher (for 35 years in School District 79), I had more time to dedicate to volunteering in the community and decided that this program was a good match for me. Four years later I couldn’t be happier that I decided to join Big Brothers Big Sisters. My first Little Buddy was a Grade Two student at Alexander School and we met once a week for an hour during the school day. He was energetic and curious about everything from airplanes to board games. The Big Brothers Big Sisters organization supplies a great array of games and activities for the Mentors to use with their little buddies, so we shared lots of time flying

balsa wood airplanes, drawing, doing seasonal arts and crafts and playing board games. In June of that school year my little buddy moved to Ontario so I was asked to mentor another child, which I agreed to with no hesitation. Big Brothers Big Sisters organization arranges a space for Big Buddy and Little Buddy to meet, introduces you to staff members and is always readily available by phone or e-mail should you have any questions. I highly recommend this worthwhile adventure for anyone who has a love and appreciation for children and an hour once a week to get involved in this organization. It is so fulfilling to think that you can help make a difference in a child’s life.

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Since this time Sue has continued on with her experience as a mentor and has mentored two additional children within the program. Big Brothers Big Sisters offers a variety of programs that fit into any schedule. In School Mentoring, Seniors for kids, Teen Mentoring, Big Brothers, Big Sisters, Couples for Kids, and Big Family. Contact the office and learn more about mentoring. 250-748-2447 or visit the website at www.bbbscowichan.ca

Masimba Marimba CD Release Party February 7!

mile! You are about to get some good news. Masimba Marimba has made a new CD and we are having a dance on February 7th at the Mercury Theatre to celebrate its release. Among the songs we’ll play are some that are on the CD and some new songs that we’re playing publicly for the first time. All are based on the joyous African rhythms and harmonies that make to them so enjoyable. Masimba Marimba has been

together for about seven years. It’s not easy for a group of seven to ten people to maintain a commitment to meet twice a week for practice or class and also to perform about 30 times a year. We have been lucky to have had such an interested and fun-loving group together for so long. However, this spring and summer, change is coming. Ruby will be travelling, Laura will be living in Prague and Daniel will finish high school and go to

work. Having already lost Laurie, we’ll need to do a lot of adapting. Fortunately, Rita and Tracey joined us in the fall and will help to fill the gaps. Bon voyage, bon chance and welcome! Most of us came to this music because we heard Marimba Muzuva, one of the first marimba bands in B.C. Ted Wright, of Bopoma Community Music was a founding member of that band and, luckily for us, lives in the Cowichan Valley. A patient, enthusiastic, knowledgeable teacher, Ted has been a great window for us into the rich musical and cultural traditions of Zimbabwe and southern Africa. Through Ted and others, we’ve met many other inspiring musicians and teachers from Africa, especially at Nhemamusasa North, an African music camp run by Ted each summer at the Eco Village in Shawnigan

Lake. You can see we are celebrating a lot on February 7th: a new CD, a chance to play one more time with good friends and an opportunity to share some African music and culture. We hope to see you there! February 7, Mercury Theatre, 331 Brae Rd, Duncan Tickets at the door: $15 Advance: $12 from The Community Farm Store and Bopoma Community Music. Advance: $12 from The Community Farm Store and Bopoma Community Music Children 12 and under: free

a i C s F 1 c b D s i S D H S t C p f b a t I l T a w a D o t m Q w s a o n w C p n

Specializing in young children’s movement, ballet and hip hop Artistic Director Leah Burley

warmlanddance@gmail.com

Project Johnny Cash Opens at The Chemainius Theatre Festival

rom the first deep dulcet tones through 35 hit songs and legendary stories, the “Man in Black” is back. Project Johnny Cash makes its world debut on stage at The Chemainus Theatre Festival, February 20 to April 11. The live musical tribute is conceived, written and directed by The Festival’s Artistic Director, Mark DuMez, with the support of an extraordinary cast including Chemainus favourite Samantha Currie, Musical Director Zachary Stevenson and Headwater lead singer – Jonas Shandel. The show reveals the dark and light moments of Cash’s long career – including performances with his band and famous friends – as he broke boundaries and entertained audiences of all ages, and music tastes, for five decades. If Johnny Cash’s goal was to lift and inspire people’s spirits, The Chemainus Theatre Festival aims to continue his mission with Project Johnny Cash. “It’s an all-embracing show,” says DuMez, “just like Johnny’s own life and career. There are the turbo charged, rockabilly moment like the ‘Million Dollar Quartet’ recording session as well as the somber, crooning stories the older Cash was so admired for. Altogether, we span over five decades. Through the narration and the staging, we want those attending to feel how Cash fought for and earned his place in country, gospel, and rock n’ roll history.”

Project Johnny Cash is entertaining in its quintessential playlist and colourful story. DuMez and the team have spent countless hours researching everything from Cash’s young farm life to his air force years, to the time he landed in Memphis to follow his dreams of music, trials and triumphs with industry labels, family life and personal demons, performing with (and inspiring) other musicians, being kicked off stages and applauded onto others, and remaining true to his style until his final “concert of the forgiven”. No music tribute would be complete without beloved, hit songs, and Project Johnny Cash features 35 pieces chosen to delight audiences and best tell the legendary story. Paying tribute to such notable people is an extra challenge, as noted by DuMez, “We have big boots to fill. Everyone at the Chemainus Theatre is focused on meeting the high expectations of our audience which has some avid Cash fans.” As a result, we’ve assembled a stellar cast, band, and production team to create the magic. It’s been a thrill to watch this team come together – a combination of well-loved Chemainus alumni and fresh new talent to our stage.” Tickets are available for evening and matinee shows from February 20 to April 11 by calling the Box Office at 1-800-565-7738, or online at chemainustheatre.ca..

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First appointment free!

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WEBSITES, EMAILS AND VERBAL LINT By Rick Dennis Reay and Corry Suter have been married for almost twenty years. And yet they still are as romantic as newlyweds. One of the reasons may be that they make beautiful music onstage as well. With Victoria bassist Ray Luxembourg they played and recorded as Little Blue Planet. And when Ray left the trio they closed ranks and performed together as Shake’n’Cor and recorded a pop/blues/jazz CD, “Are You True to Me” with some friends, which they promptly christened the Bonetones. (Mr. Suter toured across Canada backing up various blues musicians under the name “Shakey Reay”.) Corry supplies vocals and writes most of the material. I asked Reay (who has a dayjob working at the ticket booth of the Islands Savings Centre) how he and Corry celebrate Valentine’s Day. “Roses – of course – RED The most romantic, truthful, card I can find... Chocolates – dark ginger from Rembrandt’s – the best A lovely dinner – usually in our favorite place – Home - so we can retire to the music room and do a little playing and singing in preparation for our next recording with our band, Shake n’ Cor & the Bonetones, sometime in 2015. Happy Valentine’s Day ! Love from Shake’n Cor For more info on the duo and their friends (including a review of their latest CD, reproduced from this publication log onto www.reverbnation.com/shakencorthebonetones

And we know that we need choices for where people will be cared for at the end of their lives, choices that are very limited in the Cowichan region Cowichan Valley Hospice Board Chair MaryAnn Deacon makes an

How would you like you and your loved ones to be cared for at the end of life? A London-based group of gay and lesbian activists gather to raise money to support Britain’s National Union of Mineworkers strikers’ families.

When a man inherits a Parisian apartment from his estranged father, he’s shocked to discover a live-in tenant who is not prepared to budge. (Starring Maggie Smith)

Two men, six meals in six different places on a road trip around Italy: Liguria, Tuscany, Rome, Amalfi and ending in Capri. (Starring Steve Coogan of Philomena) A disfigured concentration-camp survivor searches ravaged post war Berlin for the husband who might have betrayed her to the Nazis. (In German with English subtitles)

to be confirmed

The extraordinary story of the renowned astrophysicist Stephen Hawking, who falls in love with fellow Cambridge student Jane Wilde.

COWICHAN PERFORMING ARTS CENTRE (COWICHAN THEATRE)

Tickets $12, Students (rows A-C only) $5

SPRING SERIES FEBRUARY to JUNE 2015 $50 All proceeds to Cowichan Valley Hospice services. If you wish to be put on our confidential blind copy email list for up-to-date information/bulletins : reelalternatives@gmail.com

owichan Valley Hospice is leading a community consultation on end of life care, through How do we make a series of public our community meetings and a survey that will be the best possible available on-line place to live when and distributed in our families are public locations. You are invited challenged with to participate in advancing illness or a conversation about end of life bereavement? care experiences invitation: and a vision for the future “ I hope that as many of hospice palliative care in residents as possible Cowichan. will participate in these discussions and survey A definition: Good hospice opportunities so that all of us palliative care is whole together are able to develop person care. It is based on a the end of life care that our plan for care defined by the community needs now and dying person in the context into the future. Mark your of their whole life, including calendars. Please join us.” physical comfort, relations with family and friends, Thanks to Shared Care and concerns about meaning and existence. The care team may Our Cowichan Community Health Network for funding include family and friends, assistance. For more health professionals, home information please contact care workers and counsellors Gretchen Hartley at Cowichan and volunteers who offer Valley Hospice at gh.cvhs@ emotional and spiritual shaw.ca or 250-701-4242. To support. Hospice palliative receive a link for the survey care includes care for the when it is live, please email bereaved. us at events.cvhs@shaw.ca Hospice palliative care is an Submitted by Gretchen Hartley approach to care, not a place.

Dates for Cowichan Valley Hospice Community Meetings in February • Tuesday, February 10, 2-4:30 pm - Lake Cowichan Upper Hall Community Centre • Wednesday, February 11, 6:30 to 9 pm - Ladysmith Eagles Hall • Monday, February 16, 1 to 3:30 pm - St. John’s Anglican Church, Duncan • Tuesday, February 17, 1 to 3:30 pm - Shawnigan Lake Community Centre • Evening meeting in Duncan To Be Announced

art & music open house clay hub margit nellemann seconds sale Featuring a wide variety of ceramics reduced by up to 82%. From teacups to plates, bowls to lamps, vases to teapots and much more. February 2, 2pm www.teafarm.ca

Bring yourself, friend, the whole family Try hand-building and wheel throwing Find out how much fun it really is! This past fall the Clay Hub started teaching clay classes at the The HUB at Cowichan Station. Finally the Cowichan Valley has a community clay facility. The Clay Hub is open to people of all ages offering Handbuilding and Wheel throwing classes as well as Open Studio opportunities. Drop in - Come Join the Fun Family Day, Monday February 9, 10am – 4pm, www.theclayhubcollective. weebly.com

considered one of the stellar musical and lyrical talents of our day and tops the roots music charts. He inspires folks with his songs about trains, tractors, rural life, farms, small businesses, and down and out characters. Traveling constantly, Fred Eaglesmith and the Traveling Steam Show tour throughout North America, Europe and Australia playing over 200 shows a year. The Cowichan Folk Guild presents theFred Eaglesmith Traveling Steam Show at The HUB, at Cowichan Station 2375 Koksilah Road, Duncan. Saturday February 21. Doors at 7:30 PM - Show 8 PM Tickets $25 ($20 for CFG members) available at Volume One Books, 149 Kenneth St, Duncan 778 455 4710 for more information.

come and sing!

jazz at sylvan church

Looking for more choristers for the upcoming May 2 performance of Mendelssohn’s ELIJAH. First rehearsal in is Wednesday, February 4th at Sylvan United Church in Mill Bay. Sue Doughty is Rehearsal Choir Conductor and Robert Mari will conduct the orchestra and choir in May. If you love to sing in the shower, come join us! Rehearsal 7:30 to 9 pm each Wednesday. Car pooling is available and musical scores -all in English. Don’t know if you will fit in, or what category of voice you have? Do you sing high or low easily? We can help. Call 250-7437445 Those who have sung the work before can call 743-9839 to assure a seat in the choir. The Cowichan Consort Choir is the only local choir with its own resident orchestra.

Sylvan United Church Jazz Vespers presents... Strings of Note ... a unique quartet “all strung out on acoustic jazz” and ready to focus on the spiritually enlightening theme of “Life & Changes”. Complemented by the spoken word with Reverend Dr. Murray Groom this February Vespers promises to be an uplifting and swinging service. The trio features: Kieran Bishop Violin, Gary Theal Guitar, Barry Gray, Drums and Bill Kent Bass The set list includes the works of: Jerome Kern, Mercer Ellington, George Gershwin, Johnny Mercer, John Coltrane, Cole Porter and Johnny Green. February 21, 7pm Sylvan United Church 985 Shawnigan Mill Bay Rd Suggested $10 admission at the door. For more information: Pat Selman at (250) 324-1900or patsel@shaw.ca

fred eaglesmith and the traveling steam show Come and enjoy an evening with Canadian alternative singer-songwriter and storyteller Fred Eaglesmith and his compadres and support a great cause. Award winning Canadian singer songwriter Fred Eaglesmith inspires comparisons to icons like Woodie Guthrie and Bruce Springsteen. He is

Sylvan United Church Jazz Vespers...

Strings of Note...

a unique quartet

FEBRUARY 21

7pm Suggested donation $10 at door

Sylvan United Church, 985 Shawnigan-Mill Bay Rd For Tickets or Info (250) 324-1900 or patsel@shaw.ca

Need Ink for your printer ? Get it DELIVERED TO YOUR DOOR at the best prices in the area

inkdepot@shaw.ca – 250 732 6955

LifeLine Practitioner Denise McLean Brings A New Gift of Healing to The Valley

f you have been through a session with LifeLine practitioner Denise McLean, you’ll have no doubt in your mind that she is a healer. Her foundation as a Reiki Master and expertise in Flower Essence, Sound and Crystal Therapy and Card Readings enhance this transformative experience widely practiced in 6 out of 7 continents around the world. Dr Darren Weissmann, founder of The LifeLine

Technique® explains that the method combines philosophy, science, and quantum technology. It finds a way to bridge the gap between the conscious and subconscious mind. At the root of every symptom, stress and disease is a subconscious emotional pattern of reaction. When activated this pattern of reaction will cause both behavioral and biological stressors. “The LifeLine Technique® came into my life when I suffering from anxiety that was profoundly affecting my health and well being after some major life challenges. I had called into Dr. Darren’s radio show and he proceeded to do a mini session over the phone with me. It impacted me so much, that I knew I had to learn more about this technique. It was a

perfect fit because it combines a variety of the modalities that I already practice as well as many others that I have experienced through other practitioners. It has profoundly changed the way I view and react to life’s challenges. Life is less stressful with more joy, happiness and peace.” shares Denise. Rather than something being wrong with a person; symptoms, stress and disease are the language your body and life use to awaken you to your authentic power of transformation and create change. The LifeLine Technique® enables a person to activate their subconscious mind and thus have a direct impact on genetic expressions affecting the health of your body and the relationships in your life.

yoga for wellness

Yoga Therapy

he path of Yoga Therapy is about understanding the mechanics of the body, and applying gentle yogic philosophy to promote optimal health and wellbeing. When I discovered this style of yoga it was so affirming for me, and gave me the space to really slow down in my practice and get to know what my body was doing. Combined with the intention to do less, it has also helped me heal from various injuries and feel stronger in my body. If you only have time for only one pose today, try this one: Reclined hand to big toe pose (Supta Padangustasana)

I love this pose! It is relaxing as it is done while lying on the back and it is done with the use of support of a prop(strap). The intention of this pose is to release and bring ease to the back of the body. Practically it helps to stretch and lengthen the backs of the legs in a safe way while the pelvis is stable. Done while lying on the back with the use of an assist (yoga strap or scarf), we can nestle the whole body into the ground and release any tension felt in the back and shoulders. Supta Padangustasana (Reclined hand to big toe pose) To Begin, find a strap~ I just use a scarf that is long enough to fit around my foot, and a pillow for your head. Some relaxing music is a bonus! Plan to spend about 4-5 minutes on each side

My session with Denise begins with a brief exploratory conversation to see where I was at physically, emotionally - whatever I was aware of and wanted to share. We identified areas of pain that would later reveal some of the sources of my tension. Most of the session takes place seated in a chair facing Denise. Her calming voice will instruct me to close my eyes and repeat verses, personal to me and what we have come to work on today. Infinite love and gratitude is invoked throughout the session and with it comes both strength and calm. The LifeLine Technique® originated from 14+ different holistic modalities, creating one unified system of healing. cont’d next page

strap rest on the ‘bridge of the foot’, or big toe mound. Let the toe mound ‘shine’ toward the sky, the foot is in between flexed and pointed. *The right leg can be bent so that the sole of the right foot is on the ground. (The right leg can also be straight, but I would try the first variation first. ) Tune into the Pelvic bones, allow them to settle into the mat beneath you Find your breath. 3. The aim of this stretch is the back of the Left leg, from the pelvis all the way to the foot. I like to keep my left knee slightly bent. Relax the rest of the body. Can you relax the body and find the breath is moving in and out in a natural way? Can you feel the arms and shoulders relax? Can you relax the head, the jaw and the neck? Can you allow the body to rest and be supported by the earth beneath you, and feel as it begins to breathe itself?

1. Lie on your back, place a small support/pillow under the head. Lindsay Campa is a member of the Forest Tune into the skull bones, allow them Yogini Collective. She is a Registered Massage to settle onto the mat beneath you Therapist and Registered Therapeutic Yoga 2. Take the strap/scarf to your left foot to begin and raise the sole of the left foot towards the sky. Let the

Teacher offering holistic and supportive health care in the Cowichan Valley. www.thehealingbody.ca

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

* 5 Element Based Acupuncture - The Five Elements help us to understand that the natural flow of energy that takes place in nature also occurs within your body. * Chakras - Energy centers in your body that connect your body to the collective consciousness (the universe or source). Each chakra is associated with acupuncture meridians, physiological functions and certain beliefs. * Color Therapy - Every color has a vibration and frequency of energy that can dramatically affect your health, inner harmony and emotions. * Homeopathy - A complementary and alternative medicine modality that looks at your entire physical and emotional health and treats the root cause of imbalances with natural remedies. * Chiropractic - Non-invasive treatment of the musculoskeletal system and nervous system that focuses on alignment in body, mind and lifestyle for overall health. * Total Body Modification (TBM) - A system of natural health that uses muscle testing and reflex points to eliminate roadblocks to health and unlock your body’s natural ability to heal. * Neuro Emotional Technique (NET) - Helps you identify and resolve stuck events (real or imagined) that are affecting your ability to have optimal health and well-being in mind and body. * Neuro-Linguistic Programming (NLP) - A system of creating success, health and well-being through changing your thoughts, behaviors and belief systems. * Psychoneuroimmunology - Scientific and medical disciplines, including psychology, neurosciences, immunology, physiology, pharmacology, psychiatry, behavioral medicine, infectious diseases, endocrinology and

rheumatology, focused on interactions between the nervous and immune systems, and the relationship between behavior and health. * Eye Movement Desensitization and Reprocessing (EMDR) - An integrative health approach combining psychodynamic, cognitive behavioral, interpersonal, experiential, and body-centered therapies to help you heal from trauma or loss. * Applied Kinesiology (AK) Also called muscle testing, AK is a diagnostic or therapeutic tool that identifies the root cause of symptoms you are experiencing. Imagine experiencing the kind of transformation that can only come from combining the best of these modalities into one session. As an informed person who has read books on chakras, aromatherapy, herbology, colour therapy, sound therapy and more mostly out of interest, I was both amazed and entertained to be the focus of all of these practices combined. My first LifeLine intrigued me. My second session radiated me. The results were truly up lifting. A LifeLine session is like nothing I have ever experienced before. There are so many elements to it all focused on your healing. With Denise at the helm, leading this truly unique experience, the only thing that I had to do was sit back, relax and get ready for the changes that were to come. I am looking forward to our next session and see what surfaces next. Denise’s passionate dedication to natural healing is one that is true. Her smile and the sparkle in her eye is exactly the kind of person you want working on you from the inside out. For more info visit www.drdarrenweissman.com. Submitted by Sheila Badman

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How this product co developed by a medical journalist and doctor can help you! • Produces healthy collagen • Dissolves Cholesterol deposits • Reduces the risk of cardiovascular disease • Increases blood flow to coronary arteries • Prevents formation of free radicals. Available in 2 sizes of powder (original and berry ﬂavour) or capsules. Also ask us about CoQ10 for heart health. From Preferred nutrition PNO.CA Come on in and see us at Lynn’s Vitamin Gallery and our knowable staff would be happy to assist you.

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looks silly, lounging on the couch while your faces dry and crack. The cameras come out and the fun shots begin.

Host A FREE February Facial Party

magine a lazy Sunday afternoon with your favorite women; it’s a real day off, it’s February and you deserve this. You’re at an herbal home facial party and are laughing out loud as facial clay dries into a crusty mudflat on your face. This is no high-pressure, chemical-stew makeup promo-fest. You’ve got a chance to meet chamomile face-to-face, to sniff wild rose hips and experiment with a simple and inexpensive skin care system made with herbs grown here in the Valley. The day starts with an heavenly aromatherapy steam to bump your immune system. A short video is next, which looks at the products in

our bathrooms and how “healthy” they really are. The next topic is soap and you are surprised to learn that what’s in the grocery store isn’t soap at all, but detergent. By law they can’t even call it soap, so the labels say “moisture” or “beauty” bar. Who knew? Then it’s time to try one of 8 real Castile soap bars made with moisturizing olive oil and pure essential oils. You pick a sample that smells just right and head to the bathroom to lather up! With clean faces beaming, the facial clays are next - a combination of detoxifying clay and local herbs. Add a bit of water and the paste goes on! Within 5 minutes, everyone

Finally, it’s time for the wild hip face cream, an international award winner with 5 healing herbs plus rose hips. You love the scent and the texture is dreamy. With face aglow and grinning, you are full of new insights to help care for your precious skin. And did you have fun!

Magic Mud Facial Clay

You Deserve Healthy Happy Skin Try a Home Facial Party My Home or Yours Call Robin at 250-710-1276

See you at the Duncan Market - Saturday 10-2pm

Botanical Bliss herbal facial parties can be booked for a minimum of 7, maximum of 12 people. The party takes about 2 hours, costs NOTHING and can be held at your home or Robin’s. Contact her at 250-710-1276 or rjround@gmail.com.

S OU L

Purchase 3 Eminence products in February and E S CAPE E S T H E T I C S take home an Age Corrective Est. Since 2006 Starter Set for free. (retail $79+tax)

La Petite Auction House

Auction Sunday February 8 Early viewings Wed - Fri 11am- 4pm. Plus same day viewing from 11am -1pm. To consign call or email dawngeddie@gmail.com

Auction begins at 1pm

9686 Chemainus Rd, 250-701-2902

THE ORIGINAL HUNGARIAN ORGANIC SKINCARE LINE IN NORTH AMERICA

#4 -5777 Trans Canada Hwy, Duncan 250.748.2056 www.soulescape.ca The ﬁrst and only Green Spa in the Cowichan Valley.

hat do you get when you cross whimsical wisps, deep love of family, an appreciation for the surprising, and a celebration of the common things? A Pipi Tustian composition.

Artist Pipi Tustian

Local painter and gallery owner, Pipi Tustian is best known for her loose, vibrant painting style. Bold, free brushstrokes give movement to canvas and textiles. Nothing is static. Her colours are equally exciting and evoke seasons and moods sometimes communicated further through painted words. Works on canvas are rare. More commonly, Pipi’s art is in the form of washable home textiles that stand the test of time – and wine: napkins, tablecloths, dishtowels, and pillows. She creates from her own inspiration and to suit clients’ whimsy. Whether you desire a large-scale mural or washable art for everyday living, Pipi welcomes you to bring your ideas, photos, and objects of inspiration for a free quote. Commissions have included 2 large-scale, framed still-lifes in Northern Renaissance colours and chiaroscuro; a birdcageadorned women’s spring coat; and a 3’ x 10’ table runner in aqua and lime green. While her signature style is easy to spot, she is versatile. As with any artist, her muse is fickle & dances from idea to idea. This muse, let’s call

Talking Arts Pipi Tustian

So, chairs have become the focus of her next workshop series. You are invited to break the doldrums of winter’s end and welcome spring with Pipi on Thursday evenings Feb 19th –March 26th BYOC (Bring Your Own Chair, of course). Pipi Home Décor is a small studio. Classes will be intimate, with a maximum of 4 participants. For more info 250.746.9497 pipihomedecor@shaw.ca.

THE SECOND HANGER BOUTIQUE CONSIGNMENT

We’ved MOVED! On February 14th only.... Spend $25 receive a gift with your purchase! Bag Sale February 27 & 28th!!!!

3541 COBBLE HILL ROAD, In the heart of Cobble Hill

250 743-7802 thesecondhanger@shaw.ca

The artist working in her studio

her Gigi, has danced her into chairs – not literally, though, because that would hurt.

• Full Hair and Esthetics Services • Natural Sugaring Hair Removal • Onsite Gel Nail Artist

GIFT CERTIFICATES

Featuring So Pure natural hair care line with organic essential oils

30% off Spa Pedicures

for the month of February!

an Illustrator, Painter and Graphic Designer. In 1993 I found myself in a position to pursue my art career. I was accepted in a two year Graphic Design, Diploma program at Malaspina University College in Nanaimo, BC, graduating in 1995 amongst the top in my class. With technology’s expansion, I have over the 20 years as a graphic artist continually developed and upgraded my skills. In 2009 I graduated from a one year Web Design, Diploma program at CDI College of Business and Technology, Vancouver, BC.

Imagine That Artisan Susanne Pink, Illustrator

Illustration and painting are areas I love and enjoy working in a wide variety of mediums. I have had several commissions. One is a painting on fabric of a fairy reading a dragon a story for the Coquitlam Children’s Library. In 2004 I was commissioned to paint two wall murals for Tiger Paw Adventures, situated in the Himalayan foothills on the Ganges River in India. In 2008 I

returned to restore both murals. I have also been commissioned to paint several murals in private homes. Because of my background as an equestrian, I am keenly interested in illustrating and photographing horses. A selection of Susanne’s artwork is on display at Imagine That! Artisans’ Designs, 251 Craig Street in downtown Duncan from February 2 - 28.

Change is the spice of life and the Cowichan Theatre has embraced a huge change in 2015! The New Year has brought it a new name, a new logo and a new website – www. cowichanpac.ca The Cowichan Performing Arts Centre better reflects the diversity of hosted performances and the stature of the venue with the largest stage on Vancouver Island. CVRD Arts and Culture manager, Kirsten Schrader explains, “We don’t just present theatre, but music, film, dance, choirs, comedy, festivals and special events. We are a centre of creativity. A cultural hub of inspiration. The Cowichan Performing Arts Centre is your entertainment choice for our area. After 35 years with the same logo and identity, it was time for an update to keep things fresh and current. We hope you will be as excited as we are with our new name and look.” Look for the new brochure being distributed throughout our area now.

Ongoing Knitting and Weaving Workshops. Drop In and See!

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

Todd Gesshe is a consulting arborist and garden designer www.cascaradesigns.ca

Trees in The Nude

FEBRUARY IS SEED STARTING TIME! www.dinternursery.ca

KNOW BEFORE YOU SOW

Great selection of quality plants, your ONE STOP SHOP for all your seed starting needs.

FREE WEST COAST SEED CATALOGUES!

• Seed Starter Soil • Peat Pots • Cell Packs • Assorted Heat Domes and Trays • Specialty Lights and Heating Mats • Markers • Pop Up Greenhouses • Organic & Heritage Seeds • Bare Root Fruit Trees • Plus all gardeners tools and more!

Serving local gardeners since 1973

250 748 2023

5km South of Duncan on Hwy 1

love this season; the warming, lengthening days, the hope of spring and so many naked fruit trees to ogle. Without a leaf left to clothe them, we have a valuable opportunity to observe and interact with our trees. Now is the time to prepare for a bumper crop of apples, pears, plums, figs or whatever you may be growing. The best way to prepare for growing great fruit is to make thoughtful observations. Ask yourself: How did the tree produce last year? Did the crown look healthy? A very basic way to analyze a tree’s vigor is to find a twig and starting at its tip, trace the growth back to where you see an abrupt line (terminal bud scar) and obvious change in the texture and color of the wood. This is how much the tree grew last year. Look for irregularities and cankers on the twigs. Does it look healthy? Test other twigs on the same tree. If the average length of these twigs is less than 3” (for most species), your tree is maybe not as vigorous as it could be. Now we can look further for the cause of low vigor and ask ourselves more questions: Was it dry last year? When did the tree flower? Were there excessive insects on the tree? What was that strange goo oozing out of the branches? And so on… Asking these types of questions is the foundation of good tree care. Another common issue is non-productive trees, meaning little or no fruit. This may be caused by the following five factors: Poor pollination – does the tree have a mate flowering at the same time? Are bees being attracted and encouraged? Biennial bearing – did the tree produce an excessively large crop the previous year? if it did, then it may not have had the energy to build many flower buds for the next year. Unfavorable weather – excessive periods of summer drought or spring cold can negatively affect fruit production. Thankfully our winters are mild so winter damage is uncommon.

stinkers for our region. Apricots anyone? Lastly a note on pruning. Fruiting is controlled and harvesting made easier by annual or bi-annual pruning. I am often asked “when should I prune?!” by people who are concerned they will kill their poor trees if they remove a branch at the wrong time of year. This fear is unfounded. The reality is that healthy vigorous trees can withstand appropriate doses of pruning any time of year without deathly effects. That being said, certain times of year are more optimal if our goals are fruit or flower production. February and March is the ideal time to prune most fruit trees because the growing season is just around the corner, tree energy reserves are high, and we have the huge advantage of being able to see the tree in all its glorious nakedness. For those interested in learning more about fruit tree care and pruning, I will be giving a tree care workshop at the CGC on February 21, 9am-3pm. Learn Basic Tree Biology Fruit Tree Health Philosophy of Pruning & HandsOn Pruning Procedures Pre-registration required. 360 Duncan St Please bring your lunch tea will be provided $35CGC members/ $40 Visit www.cowichangreencommunity.org for more info and to register.

Unique Garden Design Consulting Arborist Pruning Specialists Ecological Restoration Garden-Care

Low vigor – weak trees = weak fruiting. Poor variety – let’s face it: some varieties are just

www.cascaradesigns.ca 250-710-7461

Providing a Good Start to Your Seeds

or avid gardeners and farmers, pouring over new seed catalogues is an exciting winter pastime. Buying seeds is a small investment and you want to ensure you give those tiny miracles of plant life a good start. If you’re not experienced with this process, following are a few guidelines to get you started: Start with good quality fresh seed. Purchasing your stock at one of the regional Seedy Saturday/Sunday events is a great place to start. Most annual flowers and vegetables should be sown indoors about 6 weeks before the last frost in your area. In our region that’s about March 30th. Don’t start your seeds too early, especially tomatoes as they’ll simply get leggy. It’s important to start with fresh seeding mix. Here’s a basic recipe: 4 parts screened finished compost 1 part vermiculite 2 parts peat moss or coir (coir is preferable as it’s a renewable resource) 1 part kelp meal or worm castings

your volume. Moisten the mix with warm water. Fill clean containers to just below the rim and tap the soil to remove air pockets. Try using toilet paper rolls or egg cartons to start seeds and save on the plastic. Read the instructions on the back of the packet, not all seeds require the same germination treatment. Label your containers as you seed. There’s nothing more frustrating than forgetting what you planted, especially if you’re seeding numerous varieties of one vegetable type. Cover your freshly seeded trays or pots with plastic or remay, allowing for air circulation, but keeping the soil moist. Seeds sprout best at temperatures of 18 to 24°C. Cooler than that and the seed may rot and warmer than this the seed may die from the heat. Bottom heat is best to encourage root growth. After the seeds have sprouted, remove the cover and put the pots in good light, retaining the warm environment until they have a set a second set of true leaves. At that point the seedling can be transplanted into a larger pot or transplanted into the garden, depending on its growing requirements.

Lynda Allen 250-748-0934

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

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

Enjoy starting your own plants from seed. It’s a very satisfying process and cost effective, too.

Mix it all together in a large tub or wheelbarrow, depending on

Cobble Hill

COWICHAN FEATURE LISTINGS

March 15th

Nora Arajs manages Ceres Edible Landscaping which offers organic horticultural services from garden design to maintenance. She is also a commercial seed grower.

free admission

Cobble Hill Hall, 3550 Watson Ave

10 am - 3 pm

Celebrate our ‘100 Mile Spring’ with everything your garden and its gardeners need - or want! For Info 250-743-7305 or 250-743-8036 cobblehillseedysaturday@gmail.com

Lucky Dogs... So You Want To Work With Dogs

here are a lot of options if you’d like to work with dogs. Walking, grooming, training, daycare/boarding, veterinarian/vet technician, photography, show handler, behaviorist. I started out house sitting for neighbours when I was in my teens. Decades later at my grooming/ daycare facility I’ll have someone tell me nearly every day that I have the best job in the world. “You get to watch dogs play all day long!” Now, I do have the best job in the world, but there is much more than just watching dogs play all day. Once a month I’ll have a young person offer to do their mandatory work experience for me: “Oh I just LOVE dogs,” they will tell me. My answer is the same every time; “Every dog comes with a person. It’s important in our industry that you be a people person as well as a dog person.” Translating between the dog and her human takes finesse and patience. Every person has a different philosophy about dogs and one must be tactful and diplomatic when dealing with the humans. Dogs are wonderful and challenging and rewarding; it’s the humans that

are unpredictable. If you want to work with dogs, you must hone your people skills. And sometimes we have to make dogs do things they would rather not do. This is when people decide if they want a career in the dog business or not. A dog may not be happy with you while you are trimming her toenails, but it has to be done. Compassion and confidence are mandatory when working with dogs; the dog’s well being must come before your ego. The dog world is vast and filled with passion. Once you enter it you will find people that are happy to share what they know. Listen to them. Read everything you can. Watch the TV shows. There will always be contradictory information, but there is always a method that will work with the dog you are working with; there is no single method. One must be flexible and instinctive when working with dogs. You will learn a lot about yourself. There is formal training available is most of the doggy disciplines, but you will still need experience. Start now and keep going. Fail and learn. Succeed and glow with pride. The more you learn the more fun you’ll have watching dogs play, I promise. Debbie Wood is currently studying animal naturopathic health and is certified through the American Council of Animal Naturopathy www.luckydogubath.ca

Home of the Cowichan Valley’s “100 Mile Dawg” A locally based, socially conscious mobile food alternative

Now serving Nani’s Secret speciality condiments! To book events call 250 732-5250 depotdawgs@gmail.com

Walking Senior Dogs

lthough Karma is now 12 with a hip problem, his short walk down the hill sniffing after the deer and rabbits that have gone by keeps him mentally happy and physically healthy. Senior dogs need exercise to keep their weight down, their joints limber, and their minds alert. Just as with people, older dogs need to keep exercising to be healthy. If your pet is getting grey hairs, you may need to change exercise routines to lower impact activities. Have a vet check your dog for any medical issues and exercise limitations before making any changes. Consider letting your dog be in the lead and match your pace to your dog’s walk. You may need to walk more slowly and take more frequent breaks so that your senior dog can catch its breath. Keeping toe nails clipped helps reduce stumbling. Another good option is taking your senior pet to a fenced dog park for socialization and a bit of exercise, if hearing and seeing are concerns. Swimming is a good, low-impact exercise. The water helps support the dog’s weight, putting less pressure on the joints while giving heart and muscles a workout. Please rinse dogs with fresh water if you take them in the ocean. Instead of one long walk before or after work, try more frequent,

shorter walks. If your senior pet is prone to injuries, using a leash is a good idea to prevent a possible tendon tear from an uncontrolled run. Using a ramp on the stairs to the house or up to the car can prolong a senior dog’s ability to go for a walk. As for you, the senior dog walker, perhaps it’s time to add lunges, squats, and running in place while you walk your senior pet. My walks with Karma are now meditative strolls while he sniffs to his heart’s content. Amanda Griesbach is organizing new group dog walks along the Trans Canada Trail in Lake Cowichan. As owner of Good Karma Dogwalking and Pet Sitting, she looks after dogs and cats in your home in the Lake Cowichan and Duncan area. She can be reached at 250-932-3340 or amandagriesbach@shaw.ca. Submitted by Amanda Griesbach Owner of Good Karma Dogwalking and Pet Sitting.

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

Lucky Dog 1059 CANADA AVE

Just past Power Lunch DUNCAN

DROP IN 250 597-7DOG OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK

www.luckydogubath.ca

U-BATH

OR WE BATH!

Home of the

$10

toe nail trim!

NO appointment needed!

Le a v e T h e M e s s Wi t h U s !

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

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

The Somenos System Is An Ecological Gem

he Somenos system is an ecological gem. The lake and wetlands are fed by tributaries Bings, Averill and Richards Creeks and in turn feed the lower portion of the Cowichan River and estuary. This diversity of habitat allows a diversity of wildlife to call Somenos home during some part of their lives. The natural processes of these ecosystems are what support migratory waterfowl as they overwinter, and Coho salmon during their rearing period.

This program is entirely dependent on the amazing and dedicated volunteers in our community who

contribute invaluably to this project while spending time in nature, meeting new people and gaining skills. The SMWS is always looking for new volunteers and is currently looking for volunteer monitoring field assistants and water quality samplers.

c.e.p.bailey@gmail.com or 250-884-0749.

If youâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;d like to find out more about volunteering with the Somenos Marsh Wildlife Society please visit their website at www. somenosmarsh.com, like them on Facebook or contact their program coordinator, Elizabeth Bailey, at

The SMWS would like to thank its wonderful volunteers and its funders and partners: the Pacific Salmon Foundation, TD Friends of the Environment Fund, Madrone Environmental Services and CURA H20. Submitted by Elizabeth Bailey

The Beauty of Dance

ave you ever played music and danced around the house with children? If so, you may have noticed how the energy is transformed and everyone starts to have fun. Dancing to music is an easy way to get children away from their screens and to get to know them a little bit more; how do they express themselves with their bodies? are they self-conscious? are they natural performers? do they have two endearing left feet? When children dance they release tension and emotional stress. Dancing helps them express themselves when they are unable to find words. It is fun and at the same time nurtures their self-awareness and confidence. They naturally develop coordination, balance and flexibility.

In order to maintain health in this important environment we must know what is happening in it. In order to know what is happening we must have data. This is why the Somenos Marsh Wildlife Society (SMWS) has partnered with Madrone Environmental Services to begin water quality monitoring in the Somenos system. Their goal is to establish a steady flow of baseline data from which they can infer the health of the system and track changes over time.

In a dance class, children sharpen their listening skills, improve their memory, learn to follow instruction, improve their attention span, and learn self-control. This is the beauty of dance: all this develops while the children are having a great time. It isnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t work-it unfolds without them even thinking about achieving results. Through dance they feel capable and confident in their bodies early in life without forcing it.

If your child likes to dance, consider signing them up for creative dance classes. There will be no evaluation of their progress, simply encouragement to participate and to explore their own creativity. Paulina Kee offers Creative Dance classes for children in the cozy yurt at Lila Music Centre. Parents are welcome to join the classes too!

Creative Dance for Children 3 to 5 years old. Wednesdays, February 4, 11, 18 25, 10 am to 10:45 am, Lila Music Centre, 3228A Gibbins Rd, Duncan $70 for 6 classes, drop-in $15 For more info contact paulinakee@gmail.com Paulina Kee is a former professional dancer and has taught creative dance to children for 10 years. For more info please visit www.joythroughmusic.com Photo credit: Cam MacDonald

Delicious East Indian Cuisine

Butter Chicken Curry Chicken Vegetarian Specialties Chana Masala Pakoras Samosas

The Daily Grind Dine in or Take Out 3218 Sherman Road â&#x20AC;˘ 250-709-2299

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

on individuals. TD Bank says Canada as a whole can expect deficits over the next few years unless Ottawa takes money from its contingency fund.

Oil Prices Drop As Global Warming Rises

ith oil prices plunging from more than $100 a barrel last summer to below $50 now, the consequences of a petro-fuelled economy are hitting home — especially in Alberta, where experts forecast a recession. The province’s projected budget surplus has turned into a $500-million deficit on top of a $12-billion debt, with predicted revenue losses of $11 billion or more over the next three or four years if prices stay low or continue to drop as expected. Alberta’s government is talking about service reductions, publicsector wage and job cuts and even increased or new taxes

It’s absurd that a lower price on a single commodity could have such a profound economic impact, but that’s what happens when you put all your eggs in one basket and fail to plan for such contingencies. With a population and oil-and-gas production profile similar to Alberta, Europe’s largest petroleum producer, Norway, is also feeling the impacts. But much higher taxes on industry, majority state ownership of the country’s largest oil-and-gas company and an approximately $900-billion sovereign wealth fund built from oil revenues are cushioning the fall. Some see low fuel prices as good news, but there are many downsides. With driving becoming less costly, more cars and trucks could be on the road, which is good for the auto industry but bad in terms of pollution, climate change and traffic accidents. And because the price of oil is now lower than the cost to extract oilsands bitumen, the industry is starting to put the brakes on rapid expansion plans — bad news for workers and businesses in Fort McMurray and those heavily invested in the industry but

Zak Stolk Violin Maker

25 Years Experience of Lutherie in the Italian Tradition. Making, repair and restoration of Violins, Viola, Cello, Double Bass, Harp, and all manner of Stringed ALSO offering Instruments. instrument making classes.

Mandolin & Violin.

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

good news for the planet.

fuel subsidies would also help.

Recent research shows most of Canada’s oilsands bitumen — as well as all Arctic oil and gas, most of Canada’s coal and some conventional oil and gas — must be left in the ground if the world is to avoid a global temperature increase of more than 2 C above pre-industrial levels, the internationally agreed-upon threshold for limiting catastrophic impacts of global warming. The report, by researchers at University College London’s Institute for Sustainable Resources and published in the journal Nature, concludes a third of the world’s oil reserves, half of gas reserves and more than 80 per cent of coal reserves must not be burned before 2050.

John Stone, a Canadian scientist and lead author on the most recent Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change report, told CBC the UCL study “is another wake-up call to snap us out of our denial of climate change.”

The study also found that carbon capture and storage, touted as one way to continue exploiting and burning fossil fuels, is too new, expensive and limited to make enough of a difference by 2050. Study co-author Paul Ekins told National Geographic that putting hundreds of billions of dollars into fossil fuel exploration and development is “deeply irrational” economic behaviour. “What would be ideal,” he said, would be to “use the opportunity of this fall in the oil price to start instituting a global carbon tax, which would take some of the volatility out of the prices.” Removing fossil

With 2014 confirmed as the hottest year on record, and 13 of the hottest 15 years having occurred since 2000, we can’t afford to ignore the consequences. According to researchers, the odds that natural variability is causing today’s climate change are less than one in 27 million! It’s astounding that, in the face of such overwhelming evidence from scientists worldwide, people continue to deny the problem exists or that humans are responsible and can or should do anything about it. It’s especially irresponsible when energy conservation and cleaner fuel alternatives offer so many economic benefits, including job creation, greater stability and reduced health-care costs. As world leaders prepare for the UN climate summit later this year, we must look at the recent market meltdown as an opportunity to shift away from fossil fuels. It’ll be much easier and less costly to get on with it now than to wait until we’re left with few choices. Written with contributions from David Suzuki Foundation Senior Editor Ian Hanington. www.davidsuzuki.org

Denise McLean

CERTIFIED LIFELINE™ PRACTITIONER Activate the subconscious mind and have a direct impact on genetic expressions affecting the health of your body and the relationships in your life.

Infinite Love & Gratitude

250-732-0247

azstarplays@yahoo.ca

By Appointment in Cobble Hill

Healthy Relationships Interdependence

e are relational beings, meaning we need to be in relationship with other beings to be healthy and happy. Our society, however, teaches us that the ultimate in personal development is to be independent, and not to need anyone.

Valleyview

Centre

So much to oﬀer!

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

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

We Welcome New Patients!

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

Don’t get me wrong—not all relationships are created equal. It is better to be alone than to be in a relationship rife with abuse and neglect. But our individualistic culture is running counter to our basic biology, and it’s time to challenge this basic notion that successful people are totally independent. It’s time to stop equating a longing to belong with weakness or neediness. We all long to belong. We all thrive within respectful, caring relationships. And, we are all somewhat deprived of having a tribe of close, trustworthy, safe people to relate to. Our modern society is fractured. We are increasingly cut off from each other, animals, Spirit, and the Earth itself. It is no wonder there is so much suffering here

despite our supposed wealth. I point this out because people often blame themselves for feeling depressed, lonely, or “needy,” when in reality they are having a very healthy response to an unhealthy society. The more we can embrace our need for connection, the happier we will be. What if we started to cultivate more intimate relationships with our friends, families, and neighbours through spending time together and being vulnerable with one another? What if we acknowledged that each of us has a relationship to the Earth, and consciously worked to improve it? What if we saw ourselves as part of a vast web of interdependent relationships? Relationships are like gardens—they need tending to be fruitful. And when we put in the time and energy, we are deeply nourished and fulfilled. Swarn Leung, Registered Clinical Counsellor, works with individuals and couples in her Duncan office.

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

Aries (March 21-April 19) This month is popular for you! Old friends will be popping up on the horizon once again. Expect to be more involved with younger, as well as artistic, creative types. This is also the ideal time to talk to others about your hopes and dreams for the future because their feedback will help you. Meanwhile, opportunities for vacations, romance, fun, pleasure, the arts, sports and playful times with children continue to flourish. Oh yes; the thrill of the chase! Taurus (April 20-May 20) This month the Sun is at the top of your chart. This is the only time all year this occurs. This is favourable for you because the Sun is like powerful spotlight on you, and this light is flattering! This means others see you as capable, competent and talented, which is why you will be approached by people to take on increased responsibilities. Just say yes because, remember -- the light is magical. You will look wonderful and meet the expectations of others. Gemini (May 21-June 20) Good news for Gemini! Opportunities to travel will fall in your lap. Whatever happens will broaden your horizons either through travel, further education or a chance to enjoy adventure and new experiences. Romance with someone from another culture is likely; and this might be connected to travel for pleasure. Meanwhile, you’re not sitting around getting dusty. Oh no. Your ambition is strong! You have much to look forward to in the month ahead because things will be the way you like them to be.

Cancer (June 21-July 22) Your month ahead will be intense and passionate. In fact, you will feel passionate about everything! Romance will be sizzling for a number of reasons. One of them could be because someone from your past is back on the scene. This person could be a “person of interest” or they might trigger jealousy on the part of someone else – either way, this will heat things up! This is an excellent time to tie up loose ends with inheritances, taxes, debt and shared property. You will make great progress finishing something. Leo (July 23-Aug. 22) This week the Sun moves opposite your sign to stay for four weeks. This is the only time all year this occurs, and because the Sun is now as far away from you as it gets all year, and the Sun is your source of energy – naturally, your energy will be lower and you will need more rest and sleep. Factoid. In addition, your focus on partnerships will be much stronger. Many of you will be back in touch with old partners and past situations because Mercury retrograde is taking place opposite your sign.

playful romance and pleasure! Grab every opportunity to get away for a fun-filled adventure. Younger, artistic people will boost your enjoyment and make you feel younger. Old flames might be back on the scene; and this could make things interesting (or hysterical). If you plan a vacation, it will work out best if you return to a place you have been before. New love might surface for some of you, especially with contacts from your past. Meanwhile, fear not. Mars guarantees mucho productivity at work. Scorpio (Oct. 23-Nov. 21) Now your attention turns to home, family and your personal world. In part, this is because you are busy with decorating projects, as well as home repairs. However, many of you are more focused on your home and family because relatives, especially people you haven’t seen for a while, are back in your life again. They might be sleeping on your sofa and eating out of your fridge. Fortunately, this is a great time for a family reunion and opportunities to talk about the bad old days. “When the smoke alarm goes off – dinner’s ready!”

week, it increases your focus on money, cash flow, possessions, earnings and assets. In the next several weeks, you will think how to boost your earnings or make a little money on the side. In the bigger picture, you want to feel you’re on top of what you own, and that you are making your possessions work for you and not vice versa. However, Mercury retrograde will create late cheques in the mail, delays and confusion about financial matters and possibly, a dispute about the ownership of your own possessions. Aquarius (Jan. 20-Feb. 18) The Sun, retrograde Mercury and Venus are all in your sign. Naturally, the Sun will energize you by giving you the opportunity to recharge your batteries for the rest of the year. Venus will make you charming and diplomatic. Venus will also enhance your ability to buy attractive wardrobe goodies. Retrograde Mercury will attract people from your past back into your world; but Mercury will also cause silly mistakes and make you forget things, misplace things and miss meetings. Ouch.

Virgo (Aug. 23-Sept. 22) Roll up your sleeves because in the month ahead, you are busy! Primarily, this is because you want to get better organized. Act on this motivation. Make the most of it. Give yourself the right tools so that you can do a bang-up job. Your desire to get better organized applies to both work and home – yes, you want it all. In fact, you will want to boost your health as well through better diet, increased exercise and exploring new ideas that promote a stronger, more flexible body. (Sex is as good as yoga if you do it right.)

Sagittarius (Nov. 22-Dec. 21) Short trips, increased errands, conversations with everyone plus increased reading and writing will give you a jampacked schedule this month. The pace of your days will accelerate. The only snag is retrograde Mercury is along for the ride causing confused communications, transportation delays, lost paperwork, broken equipment and lots of silly, goofy mistakes. On top of this, your situation at home is chaotic and busy, due to residential moves, renovations or visiting guests. (“I childproofed the house, but the kids keep getting in!”)

Pisces (Feb. 19-March 20) This month is the perfect time to contemplate what you want your new year to be all about. If you have defined goals, especially with deadlines, your chances of accomplishing these goals are much better. Think about where you want to be five years from now, two years from now, one year from now. What do you have to start to do in the coming year, to go in that direction? You can either plan your future, or just respond to whatever happens, willy-nilly, like management by crisis. More than other signs, your belief about what is possible controls what will manifest.

Libra (Sept. 23-Oct. 22) The month ahead promises

Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan. 19) As the Sun shifts signs this

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