May 2013 Valley Voice Issue 54 by Cowichan Valley Voice

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MAY 2013 Issue 54 COWICHAN VALLEY I FOOD I ARTS I EVENTS I HEALTH I COMMUNITY 1

GALA FUNDRAISER FOR SATURDAY ALEXANDRA

MORTON SALMON CONFIDENTIAL

MAY 18TH

6:30pm - 9:30pm COWICHAN BAY

Update & Discussion

SHOW YOUR SUPPORT FOR BC WILD SALMON!

Sample delicious local wines, fresh BC spot prawns and enjoy fabulous reception nibbles - all while raising funds! + SILENT AUCTION - Bid on Art, Getaways,

Gourmet Food Baskets, Designer Housewares, Jewelry and more! SEE YOU THERE!

Net proceeds raised from this event will be donated to further the research of Alexandra Mortonʼs work related to protecting BCʼs wild salmon from the impact of open net industrial salmon feedlots. Advance Tickets $25 www.salmonconﬁdential.ca CASH ONLY at for more information. Buckyʼs Sport Shop The Community Farm Store Cowichan Bay Seafoods $35 DOOR

1681 Cowichan Bay Rd

MAY EVENTS

DELICIOUS LIES Physical Comedy/Farce Dinner available in the Playbill Dining Room Matinees and Various Showtimes. Chemainus Theatre Festival, For Tickets call 250-246-9820 www.chemainustheatrefestival.ca

1-18th

GROWING CONNECTIONS: A handbook and networking event for farmers and purchasers in the Cowichan! 4:30-6:30pm Alderlea Farm & Cafe 3390 Glenora Road, Duncan RSVP to 250-748-8506. WORKOUT AND WINE GALA – LADIES ONLY BELLY FIT at Enrico Vineyard and Winery 3280 Telegraph Road $12 per session 5:30-6:30 pm To register call 250 743-5922

CHERRY POINT ARTISTS ART SHOW AND SALE St Peter’s Church, Duncan 10am to 5pm.

3-4

7TH ANNUAL “KIDS LEARN TO FISH” DAY 10 am-2 pm Chemainus Lake Free lunch, drink and prize for partipating kids

MAYFEST AT SUNRISE WALDORF SCHOOL 10am – 2pm. Open to the public, everyone welcome to join in festivities and watch the traditional dance around the Maypole. Vendors, food concessions and activities for kids. CITY CHICKS: HENS FOR THE SMALL BACKYARD Instructor: Kathy Millar 9am-12pm Register at VIU Cowichan Campus 250-746-3519

HIKE FOR HOSPICE 10 am - 1 pm 2km or 4km walk/run on the gentle trails at Providence Farm. Leashed pets welcome! Enjoy a complementary BBQ lunch donated by the Malahat Lions For info 250 701 4242 1843 Tzouhalem Rd Duncan

SUNDAY TEA+TALK, Explore the World of Oolong Style Tea, 11am Teafarm, 250 748 3811 www.teafarm.ca $10/person INTERNATIONAL DAY OF THE MIDWIFE hosted by Matraea Centre

THE WAYNE KOZAK QUARTET Kozak,sax, Thomas Kinzel, keyboards, Buff Allen, drums and James Young oSunday Afternoon Jazz Series at The Crofton Hotel, 1534 Joan Avenue, 2- 5 pm, $10 cover

“GROUP SHOW - RENT A WALL” PortalsThe CVAC Centre of Arts, Culture and Heritage 2687 James Street, Duncan runs to May 24th.

MOM + TEA + SWEETS = Mothers Day at Teafarm 10am-5pm 250 748 3811 www.teafarm.ca

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SPRING OPEN HOUSE SILVERFERN INTEGRATIVE COMMUNITY HEALTH CLINIC with Tobi Panter, Daisey Kent and Lindsay Campa 6-8:30pm 160 Jubilee St. Duncan

ENSEMBLE LAUDE PRESENTS “THE VOYAGE” 2 pm and 4 pm, Providence Farm,1843 Tzouhalem Rd, Duncan. Tickets $10 and $5 at the door. Adv tickets www.ensemblelaude.org

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ANNUAL CVOLC ART SHOW (Cowichan Valley Open Learning Co-op) Accepting donations of old frames for the CVOLC project which are refurbished and used for the art show Excellent Frameworks 28 Station St Duncan Runs to May 25th

BC MASTERS MAPLE BAY ROAD RACE (Ages 30 +) hosted by CVC and Cycle Therapy. Information at www.cycletherapy.ca

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‘THE THRILL IS ON’ THE MUSIC OF B.B. KING 8pm Duncan Garage Showroom $20 door $18 advance CROFTON ART GROUP SHOW AND SALE plus Handcrafted Jewelry Crofton Senior Centre 1507 Joan Avenue, Crofton (close to the Ferry Terminal) refreshments served.

10-11

TYEE DOG SHOW Conformation, Obedience, Rally-O Agility. Vendors, food consession FREE EVENT 9am - 4pm Cowichan Exhibtion Grounds

10-12

OPEN MIC 2pm - 5pm Coffee On The Moon CELEBRATING THE LIFE AND MUSIC OF PETE SEEGER Coffee House with members of the Flying Accusations and special musical guests.Duncan United Church 246 Ingram St, Duncan Doors at 7pm, Open stage 7:30pm CFG $5 Non members $10 Free for performers

SUNRISE WALDORF SCHOOL GRADE SCHOOL OBSERVATION TOUR Visiting Grades 1,3,5, and 7 8:45 am to 10 am, RSVP 250 743 7253 admissions@sunrisewaldorfschool.org

SOUP AND SANDWICH 11:30 am. $5. Entertainment by St.Josephs School Chemainus 55 + Drop In Centre 9824 Willow St. Chemainus,Phone 250 246 2111

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COWICHAN VALLEY GREEN PARTY OF BC BBQ on Government Street, just west of Wedgewood House. Bring food to share and/or a donation for the campaign to elect Kerry Davis as our next MLA! Cowichangreens@gmail.com BENCH ELEMENTARY’S ANNUAL FUN FAIR 10:30 to 3pm filled to the brim with games and activities - make a basket for Mother’s Day, enjoy a nice cold slushy, shop for clothes, books and plants. Rain or Shine, come on out! 1501 Cowichan Bay Rd

MOTHER’S DAY BRUNCH AT MERRIDALE 10am - 3pm 1230 Merridale Rd Cobble Hill 250 7434293 FREE GIFT for mom with coupon on page 15. MOTHER’S DAY AT ALDERLEA FARM CAFE 4 Course Lunch or Dinner - A great family gathered around a great meal at a great farm–that’s all mom really wants, right? 3390 Glenora Road, Duncan please call 250 597 3438 or johnKaty@shaw.ca for reservations

GODDESS GOLF THURSDAYS 6 – 7pm May 16,23,30 Drop In - $20, Series of 4 - $60 Cowichan Golf & Country Club www.jodyjacksongolf. com 250-532-3399 Runs through golf season

18-19

18TH ANNUAL MAPLE BAY MARINA WOODEN BOAT FESTIVAL Open to the Public days. Family friendly event 6145 Genoa Bay Road, Maple Bay

WINE TASTING EVENT FUNDRAISER FOR ALEXANDRA MORTON Show Your Support For The Protection of Wild Salmon! Silent Auction, Hors D’oevres and local wines. Oceanfront Suites in Cowichan Bay 1681 Cowichan Bay Rd 6 :30pm -9:30pm $25 Advance/$35 Door Each ticket receives DVD copy of Salmon Confidential. Tickets CASH ONLY available at Bucky’s in Duncan, Cowichan Bay Seafoods and Oceanfront Suites. Terrain Regional offering 10% dinner for fundraiser attendeese!

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

EUGENE SMITH at the Sussmans oldies, newies, blues Reservations $15 donations are suggested. www.shadygrove.ca 7pm A DAY WITH THE BUDDHA’S AN INFORMATIVE DAY RETREAT, Nichiren Peace Center, off Vimy and Cambria, #4- Johnny Bear Road. 9 AM - 4 PM, by Donation. 250 710 7594 SPOT PRAWN AND MOREL DINNER FARM TO TABLE DINNER with Chef Bill Jones at Deerholme Farm 4830 Stelfox Rd Please call 250.748.7450 to reserve.

5th ANNUAL COWICHAN BAY SPOT PRAWN FESTIVAL 11am5pm Cowichan Bay waterfront www. prawnfest.ca

A DAY OF SOULCOLLAGE® 10am- 4:30pm Alderlea Farm $95 includes organic lunch and all supplies more info hearttohome.ca COMOX’S INDIGO JAZZ, featuring Dale Graham, The Crofton Hotel, 1534 Joan Avenue, 2 to 5 pm $10 cover MAKARIA FARM’S ANNUAL ORGANIC TOMATO PLANT SALE 4715 Bench Road, Duncan 10am-1pm EMILY CARR STRING QUARTET 2 pm presented by Church Mice Productions $15 Family of 3 or more $12 Sylvan United Church 985 Shawnigan – Mill Bay Road Mill Bay LADYSMITH SEAFOOD FESTIVAL – HARVEST OF THE SALISH SEA”Located at the Amphitheatre @ Transfer Beach SACRED CHANT CIRCLE @ RIVENDELL YURT (in Glenora) 7-8:30pm by donation Sadie sdbartram@gmail.com / 250 748 2089 BIRDS EYE COVE FARM BBQ 4-9pm 3381 Genoa Bay Road $36 Adults, 12 and Under $15 PLEIN AIR PAINTING WITH PETER SPOHN Three Day Workshop $125 Sacred Mountain Studio 1529 Khenipsen Road Duncan To register e-mail spohn@telus.net 250 746 4130

20-22

BALANCE YOUR BLOOD SUGAR BLUES! with nutritionist Tobi Panter 7 - 9 pm 3 Tues- and May 28 & June 4 www.BChummingbirdhealing.com

GOOD TIMBER Rollicking Musical Revue Dinner available in the Playbill Dining Room Matinees and Various Showtimes. Chemainus Theatre Festival, For Tickets call 250 246 9820 www.chemainustheatrefestival.ca

OPEN HOUSE/ DISCOVER TRADES DAYTake part in our Treasure Hunt and win one of several fabulous prizes VIU Noon until 6 pm Cowichan

Campus Vancouver Island University, 2011 University Way, Duncan 250-746-3500 29TH ANNUAL CHILDREN & APPLE PIE FESTIVAL Buy a Pie – win the diamonds! 10am – 3pm at the Cobble Hill Fairgrounds. Family friendly- Games, activities, food concessions and more!

DOCUMENT SHREDDING FUNDRAISER For Cowichan Music Festival & Friends Of The Cowichan Theatre Society. 10am - 2pm Cowichan Theatre Parking Lot (Island Savings Centre) Bring your unwanted files and documents for shredding. $0.50 per lb. or $8 per Banker’s Box. 250-748-0867 or cmfvcmt@shaw.ca 3RD ANNUAL SYLVAN UNITED SPRING FLING FUNDRAISER Plants, books, clothing, good stuff, food concession, music. 9am-1pm 985 Shawnigan Mill Bay Rd Mill Bay next to Frances Kelsey JAZZ VESPERS 4:30 pm in the Sanctuary Amazing 16 year old Jazz saxophonist Connor Stewart from Nanaimo and his quartet Admission by donation Sylvan United Church 985 Shawnigan – Mill Bay Road Mill Bay BIKE TO WORK WEEK CELEBRATION STATION hosted by Cycle Therapy Power Lunch on Canada Avenue May 29th at the Duncan Garage Information at www.cycletherapy.ca Bike to work week runs May 27 - June 2nd

TRANSFORMATIONS IN CONTEMPORARY FIRST NATIONS ART PORTALS - 2687 James Street, Duncan, CVAC celebrates First Nations art, with this year’s theme being “Transformations”. This group show will reflect both traditional and contemporary art. Runs to June 21st

COWICHAN VALLEY ARTS COUNTIL (CVAC) Annual General Meeting 6:30 - 8:30pm for more information 250 746-1633 TOP OF THE TOWN SHOW 7pm. Cost $15. Also showing June 1st @ 7pm; and June 2nd @ 2pm.Chemainus 55 + Drop In Centre 9824 Willow St. Chemainus 250 246-2111

LADYSMITH KIDS’ PIRATES DAY presented by the Ladysmith Maritime Society Marina This event will feature pirates look for Captain Jack! Transfer Beach, Ladysmith

JUNE

ECOSTRAVAGANZA Ecole Mill Bay 3175 Cobble Hill Road, Mill Bay 10am - 3pm

7TH ANNUAL SHAWNIGAN LAKE ADVENTURE WALK Volunteers are needed! If you’d like to help please call 250 743 7621 www.theshawniganlakewalk.com

PETER SPOHN Landscape Painter & Educator, Art Classes

Plein Air Painting at Providence Farm with Peter Spohn $125 May 20th to 22nd. To register and get more details email: spohn@telus.net Sacred Mountain Studio 1529 Khenipsen Road Duncan 250 746 4130

MAY Ongoing COWICHAN VALLEY ARTISANS YEAR ROUND STUDIO TOUR View and Download brochure at www.cowichanvalleyartisans.com COMMUNITY ACUPUNCTURE MONDAYS May 6, 13, 20 and 27th 6-8pm, arrive by 6:30 for intake Community Acupuncture sliding scale rate ($15-45) with a detox/cleansing focus, assisting to break destructive behaviours 250 510 1910 for more details. Silverfern Clinic 160 Jubilee St Duncan MEDITATION THURSDAYS 7 PM VIU Cowichan Campus RM: 210 Info: 250. 710. 7594

OUT OF TOWN May 1 - 31st FEAST Tofino www.tourismtofino.com May 25th - Dockside Festival, Tofino, $10 The NEW extended calendar is generously sponsored by Sacred Mountain Studio. Thank you to Nan and Peter!

NAN GOODSHIP Painting Handbuilt Ceramics

Building community through the arts. For art class info E-mail:spohn@telus.net

250 746 4130 1529 Khenipsen Road, Duncan

Look at all the things to do in your community!

Issue 54 MAY 2013

Published by Cowichan Valley Voice Magazine Editors Sheila & Richard Badman Contact us at: editor@cowichanvalleyvoice.com 250 746 9319 - 936 Arbutus Avenue, Duncan V9L 5X4 Visit us online at www.cowichanvalleyvoice.com Distribution Copy Editor Proofreader Linda Dirksengale Maeve Maguire Diana Pink Advertising Enquiries Please Call Adrienne Richards 250 510 6596 Next Ad Deadline May 12th e-mail adrienne@cowichanvalleyvoice.com *Non Profit Community Ad Rates available please enquire. COMMUNITY CALENDAR LISTINGS ARE FREE! Please upload your information through our website Please include: Date & Event Title IN SUBJECT Be advised that space is limited to up to 2 spots per business, space dependant and is prioritized by 1st sent, 1st printed. EVENTS DEADLINE MAY 12th for JUNE 2013 Issue E-mail Date,Time, Location, Event Title and Cost to: events@cowichanvalleyvoice.com Please list event title in subject with the word “EVENT” Cowichan Valley Voice Magazine reserves the right to omit and/or edit submitted listings due to space limitations VALLEY VOICES IN THIS ISSUE Bill Jones, Cam MacDonald, Brock Windsor, Brad Boisvert, Don Bull, Anne Best, Eliza Faulkner, Joy Story, Ajay Applelaar, Sandra Greenaway,Tania Walter Gardiner, Nicolette Genier and The Wonderful Staff at The Community Farm Store, Heather MacLoed, Lynn Shortt, Niki Strutynski, Rachel Cruse, Dawn Howlett, Twyla Rascovich, Carol Messier, David Pink, David Coulson, Keith Washington, Mark Evans, Jim Demeter, Rod Brownstone, David, Sandra Beggs,Vivi DeGraff, Gretchen Hartley, Everett Dixon, Daisey Kent and Tobi Panter, Henry Landry, Jody Jackson, Robyn Radcliffe, Ranjana Basu, David Suzuki Rick Dennis, Sue McKitrick & The Lovely Georgia Nicols. We welcome your story ideas & photo submissions, however Cowichan Valley Voice Magazine reserves the right to omit and/or edit all submissions for space, clarity, content and style. The opinions expressed in Valley Voice Magazine do not necessarily reflect those of the editor, publishers or other contirbutors. Please always send a query e-mail prior to sending your article as space is limited and may not always be available. Editorial deadline for June Issue, May 10th. 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 from the Victoria International Airport Arrivals Hall. Cover Image CHANTEY DAYAL “Love Bird” omchantey@hotmail.com fb: chantey dayal www.chanteydayal.com Part of a series of 4 colourful art journals to help raise funds for imagine1day(see page 46 to learn more about what this dynamic artist and her daughter are up to!)

Contact Adrienne Richards for more information or to request a Summer 2013 Rate Card 250 510 6596 adrienne@cowichanvalleyvoice.com

Our Community May Community Calendar 4-5 The Traditions of May Day 9 Growing Connections Handbook 11 Maple Bay Marina Wooden Boat Festival 18 Hike For Hospice 20 Salmon Confidential 23 DBIA Spring Feature 28 Websites, Emails and Verbal Lint 36 Community Farm Store Pages 46 - 47 Enterprising Women 40 Local Kids Raise Funds To Help Get Kids Out of Slums 52 Cowichan Valley Directory 54-55 Local Food And Recipes Linking The Farmer To The Table 7 Farm Table VIU’s Culinary Program at Providence Farm 8 Know Your Farmer 10 8 1/2 Acres and Stone Soup Inn Minted Snap Pea Salad 12 Buttermilk Braised Chicken 14 Berry Wines 15 Spot The Prawn 16 Farm and Garden On The Farm with Makaria Farm 19 Edible Earth Seeds 20 Helpful Garden: Ready Set Grow! 21 Broiler Chicks: A Checklist 42 Home & Design Spring Building Feature - Why Hire A Pro? 24 How Much Water? 27 Local Arts Imagine That Artisan Ken Broadland 30 Talking Arts: The Skanda Experience 31 Soul Collage 32 Delicious Lies 34 Outnumbered! by Sue McKitrick 51 Family The Land of Faeries: Parent & Child Music 35 Dad’s Make A Difference 38 Recreation & Healthy Living Goddess Golf 36 Green Living 31 Resolving Family Disputes 39 Bike To Work Week 40 Cycle Therapy:Buckle Your Brain 41 Shawnigan Lake Adventure Walk 50 Body, Mind & Soul A Day With The Buddha’s 44 Community Acupuncture 43 Qigong Seminars 48 Georgia Nicols May Horoscopes 42 Coach In Your Corner 50 Science Matters:David Suzuki 53

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

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Linking the Farmer to Your Table

‘F

arm to table’ is a phrase we are seeing popping up everywhere, even in advertisements for large chain restaurants and grocery vendors. Is it just the latest food marketing trend or does it have substance? ‘Farm to table’ is a direct link between the small scale, non corporate farmer and the consumer, sometimes through the hands of a chef.

Establishments that serve farmto-table purchase products that are grown and raised by the local farmers while others, go a step further and grow their own. Those who embrace the farm to table way of eating are motivated by several factors; poor quality and flavour of ingredients shipped over long distances, lack of freshness (leading to spoilage and waste), low nutritional values, decreasing number of non genetically modified available choices, the low availability of heirloom varieties and the disappearance of the small family farm. There has been a sharp increase in both advocate Chefs and home cooks alike who are turning to the absolute freshest of ingredients for their clients and families. Generally speaking, farm-to-table chefs and cooks

Honeymoon Bay Every Saturday Outdoor Market Every Saturday 10am - 2pm May - Thanksgiving

For market info call Bob at 250-749-7233 or 250-510-1113

turn to traditional farmhouse cooking, with its emphasis on freshness, seasonal, local availability, and prepared simply. We are very fortunate in the

Cowichan Valley to have a number of farm to table inspired chefs along with access to the highest quality meat, produce and herbs for home cooks: Bird’s Eye Cove Farm, Alderlea Farm & Cafe, The Farm Table at Providence Farm and OUR Eco Village Cafe are all dedicated to serving the highest quality farm raised meat, produce and herbs for diners and home cooks. Here in Maple Bay, our farm also produces a variety of ready to eat options which are available alongside our other farm raised offerings in our farm gate store. Farmers, chefs and consumers all benefit from the ‘farm to table’ movement; it allows the public to conveniently access the naturally raised fresh products without the additional middle man costs, the farm is able to connect directly with it’s buyers and by doing so forge a stronger relationship while increasing awareness about the importance of the land, environment and livestock and finally, it supports the local economy of the Cowichan Valley and agriculture as a whole. Submitted by Lynn Shortt

Look for in-season local produce, plants, flowers, sewing, baking, preserves, handmade soaps, bodycare, arts & crafts and more! Follow the signs to the Coffee Mill Cafe in Honeymoon Bay.

18th Annual Maple Bay Marina WOODEN BOAT FESTIVAL May 17, 18 & 19th

• Live Music • Remote Control Boat Pool • Come vote for your favourite Wooden Boats! • Artists,Vendor Booths and more!

Festival Open To Public Saturday & Sunday! 6145 Genoa Bay Road, Maple Bay www.maplebaymarina.com

M VIU Culinary Students

Farm-To-Plate Restaurant Offers A New Dining Experience With Purpose

A serving fair trade certified organic island roasted coffee delicious homemade soups artisan teas

fresh baked goods

specialty coffees

Food to go

At Whippletree Junction

EK Hair Design

250 597 4490

250-701-4247

Support EK, support our community! EK only carries “ never been tested on animals” retail and colour product lines, so you can feel good about your visit to our salon. EK believes you have to be the change that you wish to see in the world. So let us start with your hair and try saving the world while making you look and feel your best. Come experience our world!

new culinary partnership has emerged - the first of its kind in British Columbia. Vancouver Island University’s Culinary Arts program is now operating at Providence Farm in North Cowichan, offering food lovers a culinary experience with a social purpose. Together, the two organizations have created The Farm Table restaurant, open to the public Thursday, Friday and Saturday evenings from 5:30 to 9pm. “This unique partnership offers culinary arts students the chance to train in a farmto-plate setting,” says VIU President and Vice-Chancellor Dr. Ralph Nilson. “Students can observe one of Cowichan Valley’s local producers in action and engage in the planting, growing, and harvesting of many of the ingredients that will find their way into the menu at the new restaurant.” Providence Farm is an organic, not-for-profit, therapeutic farm that has held a lifetime mission of helping adults and seniors with

developmental, intellectual, mental health and age-related illnesses. Vancouver Island Providence Community Association Board Chair Peter Bontkes says the new partnership gives the Farm and the people it serves an even greater opportunity to participate in a broader community. Chef Aikman is excited about teaching student chefs the fundamentals of professional cooking with an emphasis on fresh and local products in the new location. “With the advent of the 100mile diet and the slow food movement, the farm-to-plate cooking program offered at The Farm Table Restaurant puts VIU on the leading edge of culinary arts training,” he says. For reservations at The Farm Table restaurant please call 250-597-0599. To find out more about Providence Farm, go to providence.bc.ca. Visit www.viu.ca/culinary for further information about VIU’s Culinary Arts program.

Upstairs in the Duncan Garage #205-330 Duncan St www.ekhair.ca

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

c E t c t f t t g n O b b b E t u t s

M F fl o a e y s h t r t c F A D M B t

The Traditions of May Day

ay Day is perhaps one of the oldest known celebrations to originate in European cultures. It appears that the earliest May Day celebrations were to honour the changing of the seasons, from darkness into light, and that a tree, the symbol of the â&#x20AC;&#x153;tree of lifeâ&#x20AC;? and of the great strength and vitality of nature, was used in the ritual. One could draw a connection between early May Day trees brought in from the woods by peasant youths of old Europe and the sacred pine tree representing the god Attis used in a procession to the temple of Cybele in Rome, a spring ritual. Most commonly May Day is associated with Flora, the Roman goddess of flowers and spring. Garlands of flowers were gathered and carried to her temple by exuberant, brightly dressed youths who wound their sweet blossoms round the huge marble column inside the temple. They then danced round the column, singing their praises to Flora. This celebration was known as Floralia, and lasted from April 28 until May 3. For the Druids of the British Isles, May 1 was the festival of Beltane, the midway point of the year, again reflecting the

turning of the seasons. A huge bonfire was built, thought even to lend life to the incoming spring. For years it was the custom for women on May 1st to rise before dawn and walk deep into the woods seeking Maydew of hawthorn branches to bathe their faces to ensure lasting beautiful complexions. May Day over the years was much maligned by Puritanism, in 1644 the May Pole was abolished as a devilish instrument. Today May festivals persist around the world as a joyful, colourful celebration of spring, May Day brings with it the promise of rebirth and renewed life.

Mayfest Communty Celebration at Sunrise Waldorf School May 4th 10am - 2pm 4344 Peters Rd Off Lakeside Cowichan Station

Eat, Drink and Buy Local Food!

Every Boat Has A Story

BENCH

ELEMENTARY’S

FUN FAIR!

Saturday, May 11th 10:30am-3pm JAM PACKED for FUN, with MORE new games, activities and prizes And... Make a Basket for Mom $6 - Famous Haunted House - Cake Walk - so popular! - Petting Zoo BIG plant, book and clothing sales - Market Vendors - Mr. Mikes, Pizza, Hot Dogs and more!

1501 Cowichan Bay Road Cowichan Bay

18th Annual Maple Bay Wooden Boat Festival Public Days May 18 & 19 6145 Genoa Bay Road Duncan, (Maple Bay)

...come share yours at Maple Bay Marina’s 18th Annual Wooden Boat Festival happening May 17th, 18th and 19th. This noteworthy event honours the history of wooden boats and the people who keep them afloat by providing a venue for them and their admirers. All types of boats attend the event including; converted work boats, sailboats, rowboats, kayaks, classic Monks and Chris Crafts. The public are invited Saturday and Sunday - it is free to ‘walk the docks’ and guests are encouraged to cast a vote for their favourite boat. Awards are presented at the end of the show. Don’t forget to check out this year’s Model Boat Show too! “The originally idea started with came from a one of our past previous staff members who made his own models and was involved in the clubs. The Model Boat Show ran along with the Wooden Boat Festival from 2005 to 2010. In 2011 the show did not run and many people commented they would like it to return. So I made a point of getting into contact with some of

Cowichan Valley Food - As fresh as it will ever be!

the modelers. Mike Claxton from the Victoria Model Shipbuilding Society (www. vmss.ca) called me last year with interest in starting up the show again. I, very gladly, started working with him and here we are!” smiles Carol Messier, coordinator of the Maple Bay Marina Wooden Boat Festival. “ The Maple Bay Marina construction crew have built a pool and it’ll be located in our courtyard during the WBF on Saturday and Sunday. It’s fascinating to simply watch the antics and it’s not as easy as it looks to ‘drive’ them. Many, many hours go into building them too.” Members from the www.nanaimoboatmodellers. com will also be in attendance. Wooden boats have a long history and tradition on the West Coast and Vancouver Island. The people that dedicate their time and hard work to keep them in shape, or restore them, tie us to our maritime heritage. Maple Bay Marina continues to celebrate these remarkable vessels, and the people who love them.

businesses are helping our community to work towards a more food-secure Cowichan.

Launch of Growing Connections Handbook

May 1st 6pm - 9:30pm Alderlea Farm & Cafe 5590 Glenora Road, Duncan For the past six months a research team at the Cowichan Green Community (CGC) has been working on the Cowichan Agriculture Market Project, a project aimed at strengthening connections between farms and purchasers in the Cowichan Region. The project has culminated in the creation of a handbook for farmers and purchasers called Growing Connections. Through surveys and interviews the research team gathered tips and ideas to share with both farmers and purchasers (including chefs, grocers, wholesalers, and consumers). There are chapters for farmers to help them understand the requirements of different types of purchasers; as well as directories of local purchasers. There is also a section for the purchasers to help them understand how to work with local farmers. Finally, the handbook concludes with ideas and suggestions for both groups in the last chapter -Understanding the Potential. Throughout, the handbook readers will find practical information about policy and numerous helpful links, as well as inspiring examples of how local farms and food

The handbook will be launched on May 1 with an event at Alderlea Farm & Café in Glenora This event is targeted at both farmers and purchasers in the Cowichan Region and will be a networking opportunity, including a panel discussion, facilitated networking and (of course!) local appetizers. To attend this free event, please RSVP to info@ cowichangreencommunity.org or 250-748-8506. If you can’t make the event, copies of the Growing Connections handbook will be available at CGC’s office at 360 Duncan Street or on-line at www. cowichangreencommunity. org.

Mother’s Day with Sandi Madsen Breakfast in bed for mom? Unique pottery serving dishes, a beautiful cotton tea cosy to warm her special tea or lovely bud vase to bring her favourite garden gems indoors. Check out a selection of handmade ceramic and fabric piecesby Sandi Madsen at Imagine That! 251 Craig Street, Duncan. *Our sincere apologies go to Sandi Madsen. We accidentally mispelled her name a few issues back when she was featured in the arts section. Valley Voice

Eat, Drink and Buy Local!

Farmer Cam MacDonald tending his peas.

In fact, 8 1/2 acres performs no witchcraft to get early peas.

8½ Acres Minted Snap Pea Salad, with Fairburn Farm Buffalo Milk Mozzarella Courtesy Brock Windsor, Stone Soup Inn

Amount Ingredients

1 piece Natural Pastures Fairburn Farm Water Buffalo Mozzarella, cut into cubes 2 Pints 8½ Acres sugar snap peas 1 Tablespoon Early Mint Springs, chopped (French, spear or common is best) 1 Tablespoon Young Chives, chopped 1 Tablespoon Murphy’s Orchard Apple Cider Vinegar 2 Tablespoons Salt Spring Sunrise Hazelnut oil Very small amount of Red Nettle Farm wildflower honey Vancouver Island Salt and black pepper to taste if desired

eas mark one of the first vegetables of the year, out-springing asparagus depending on the weather and the courageousness of the seeder. This year 8½ acres has consulted the almanac, viewed the stars and used near alchemist intuition to have risked frost and planted peas early enough to have possibly cornered the market (the Duncan Farmers Market that is) for the first couple of weeks. They planted them in November! The 8½ stand is a must-stop for any local foodie, besides for farming using organic methods they have many uncommon products, asian vegetables, heirloom and other well chosen varieties that culminate in a well

presented and very fresh array of things to eat. Granted you usually have to deal with the understandably haggard Cam, but it’s a small price to pay for food of this calibre. Obviously peas and mint are natural companions, but for all their fresh crunchy sweetness they do like a contrast of something richer, thus the mozzarella. Enjoy this dish and/or inspired preparations using the work of other local seasonal artisans at the Stone Soup Inn.

Submitted by 8 1/2 Acres

Method

String the peas, and blanch in plenty of boiling water for a scant 1 minute, leaving them very crunchy, chill completely in ice water and drain well. As they have a sheer skin and don’t hold a vinaigrette well, I recommend cutting them in half width or lengthwise to increase surface area, or into chunks the size of the mozzarella chunks. Mix the herbs, honey, oil and vinegar and seasonings. Toss the peas with the vinaigrette and put the cheese on top, the mozzarella is unsalted so you may want to add a tad of seasoning on top or garnish with more mint.

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

1st Annual Ladysmith Seafood Festival Harvest of the Salish Sea May 19th

Amphitheatre at Transfer Beach

Taking place at the Amphitheatre on Transfer Beach, this will be a seafood extravaganza featuring dishes of oysters, clams, mussels, prawns and scallops prepared by local chefs and community groups. It is a family friendly event with a kids craft area, live music, dancing, celebrity chef presentations, seafood chowder competition, oyster shucking demonstrations and a beer and wine garden.

Eat, Drink and Buy Local!

“It’s fresher from here”

Buttermilk Braised Chicken Recipe courtesy Brad Boisvert of Amusé on The Vineyard

Ingredients

Amount

Island Farmhouse Chicken leg and thighs Bacon Garlic minced Onion minced White wine Chicken stock Buttermilk Bay Leaf Cinnamon Stick Flour Butter Salt Pepper

6 pieces 4 ounces 2 cloves 1 1/4 Cups 2 cups 2 cups 2 1 3 Tablespoons 2 Tablespoon as needed as needed

Berry Wines, A New Taste Adventure For Your Palate

ike many people, when you think of wine, you probably think in terms of white, or red, grape wines. Not surprising as wine has seen a resurgence in popularity in North America in the last 20 years. A not too distant cousin namely berry wine, has been rapidly growing in popularity. Berry wine is nothing new; people have been fermenting fruit for thousands of years. The grape has always been the king of fermented fruit, but an almost endless variety of berries has allowed energetic winemakers to create a selection of berry wines and blends limited only by their imagination. From wild blackberry wine on the west coast, to apple

and pear wines in the interior, Saskatoon wine on the prairie to blueberry wine on the east coast. You likely have a Grandfather or aunt or uncle that has their own “secret” recipe for a berry wine of one sort or another. Berry wines typically exhibit brilliant vibrant colors, rich aromas, and full bodied flavours. Like grape wines, berry wines can be enjoyed on their own, or paired with food. Some of my personal favorites include raspberry wine served with the holiday turkey, blackberry wine served with a fresh sockeye salmon hot off the grill, or blackberry port served with a sinful chocolate dessert. A summer day on the patio with friends is the perfect time to enjoy a

Method

1. Over low heat cook bacon to render fat out. 2. Season leg and thighs with salt and pepper, sear on each side until skin goes firm but no colour. Remove from pan. 3. Sauté garlic and onion until translucent 4. Remove pan from heat and deglaze with brandy. 5. Return to heat add stock, wine, buttermilk, bay leaves, cinnamon stick and chicken bring to a boil. 6.Turn down to a simmer on low heat, on stove top or in oven for 45 minute or until chicken is tender when pierced with a fork. 7. Remove chicken from pan onto serving platter or desired plates, cover chicken with foil or lid let rest for 15 minute while you finish sauce. Return braising liquid to heat bring to a rolling boil. 8. Mix together flour and butter in a bowl until well incorporated. 9. As braising liquid from chicken is boiling whisk in tablespoonfuls of flour butter mixture until sauce begins to thicken let cook 10 more minutes at a low simmer to cook out the flour. The sauce should coat the back of a spoon. 10.Adjust seasoning of sauce. Strain sauce thru fine mesh strainer. Ladle sauce over chicken and serve. Chef recommends a crisp wine with nice acidity such as a Unsworth Pinot Gris

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

We harvest naturally grown blueberries from our farm as well as delicious Tay, Raspberries, and Wild Blackberries from the Cowichan Valley. For Fresh and unique wine tastes ~ Savour our berry ﬂavours!

Farm & winery

3810 Cobble Hill Rd. Cobble Hill, BC (250) 743-9149 www.silversidefarm.com

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

Lyn, Don and the dogs, enjoying glasses of berry wine.

chilled berry wine “pressed” with a dry champagne such as a proseco. Berry wines can also be fantastic to cook with, either as a flavour enhancer, or used in a reduction. Perhaps duck in a blackberry wine reduction, or a saddle of lamb in a sour cherry wine sauce, the possibilities are truly endless. Add a berry winery on your next wine tour, and approach it with an open mind and a sense of adventure. As with any wine tasting, sample berry wines in much the same fashion. Check for clarity of the wine, and marvel at the color. Get your nose down into the glass and breathe in the aromas, what smells can you detect in the bouquet? Now a first taste, allow the wine to linger a moment on your tongue to capture the

flavours, is it spicy, or buttery, or perhaps you detect a hint of citrus. Now a gentle swirl of the glass and a second taste, see how the flavour changes. While most berry wines have a bold upfront flavour, many have wonderful subtleties for you to discover. As many berry wines can be on the acidic side, in order to avoid a “bumble berry palate” I always recommend a swish with water between varieties. Berries of all types are earning reputations as super foods packed with phytonutrients and antioxidants. In fact a recent study out of the university of Illinois found that fermented blackberry and blueberry wines helped to control blood sugar levels in type 2 diabetes, and that the wines retained their high levels of antioxidants, polyphenols, and anthocyanin’s. Anthocyanins have been found to be powerful anti-inflamatories that can help to ward off the development of many chronic diseases. So now you can drink berry wines because they are actually good for you! Or you can drink them for the same reason that this writer does, quite simply because they are delicious.

Don Bull, Main tractor driver, chief hole digger, and winemaker Silverside Farm

Buy from Cowichan Valley farms & wineries - As fresh as it will ever be!

Cowichan

years they took all we chefs like Fatima da Silva (Bistro 161), could produce. Local Brad Boisvert (Amuse in the Vineyard), fishermen sought to Brock Windsor (Stone Soup Inn), Marisa build up the local Goodwin (Organic Fair) and Dwayne market for these MacIsaac (Pasioneats) will be appearing beautiful creatures and on the cooking stage. Yours truly will be our successful Prawn hosting the chefs and making the day fun festival is now into its and informative for all (at least we hope 5th year. This year’s event is Sunday May so!). 19th. The second reason is the celebration the On Saturday, May 18th a fundraiser for little town of Cowichan Bay puts on for Alexandra Morton, our tireless salmon locals and visitors alike. The main street is crusader is planned. It will help support transformed into her valuable work and let you a kind of prawn connect with the good work being IN HONOUR OF carnival with lots carried out on behalf of our ocean PRawn FEST of activities for environments and the challenges DEERHOLME the whole family. to the ocean life that populate our FARM WILL HOST Merchants roll coasts. A SPOT PRAWN out prawn based I think Cowichan Bay will be the special and there most exciting place to be in the AND MOREL is an excellent valley on that Sunday afternoon in DINNER prawn boil tent, May. To make the day that much pizza, pasta more fun, get the family to dust and many other off the bicycles and make it a delights based on day’s outing to the festival. Learn the lovely crustaceans. A big draw is the about spot prawns, wooded boats, crane arrival of the boats selling live spot prawns nests and the pleasure of community. You right off the docks. It’s a kind of a dockside can nosh on amazing local food and maybe farmers market where the harvest is pulled even top it off with a great ice cream cone. from the sea instead of fertile soil. Bring on the Prawn Fest! The chefs demo tent is another hotspot Bill Jones is an for the culinary inclined. Top local chefs author, chef and food consultant will be sharing their secrets for preparing who can be found at amazing spot prawn dishes. Talented Deerholme.com

EATING

Spot The Prawn

ne of the highlights of the food calendar in the Cowichan Valley is the Annual Spot Prawn Festival held in Cowichan Bay on May 9th, 10am-5pm. It is special for a couple of reasons. One is the annual opening of the commercial spot prawn fisheries, which see the local boats catch a sustainable harvest of one of the most amazing prawns anywhere. The spot prawn is one of the largest prawn species on the West Coast and has a sweet, crisp flavor when plucked right from the sea. The Japanese know this, and for many

MAY 18

LIVE CRAB • FRESH FISH • LIVE SPOT PRAWNS AND MORE!

Delicious Finger Licking Spot Prawns

One of the best things about Spring in Cowichan Bay is Spot prawn season and that time is just about here. The season opens on May 9th and live prawns will be available down at Cowichan Bay Seafood on May 10th and every day during the season. Here are a few tips that will help make your first prawns of the year a delicious mouthwatering treat! If you like to prepare them whole, be sure to cook them the same day they are caught for the freshest possible taste. Otherwise, remove the heads before storing them in the fridge overnight. The key thing to remember when preparing these sparkling little jewels is that less is more...whether you like to steam them, boil them or sauté them, no more than two minutes is the trick to keep your prawns tender and juicy. Keep in mind that fresh prawns are a little more work to peel before they are cooked than frozen tails. Anne Best

Cowichan Bay Seafoods

Spring Hours Open Tuesday - Sunday 10 am to 6pm

Amount

Ingredients

1 lb (454 g) Dab (2-3oz) 2-3

Spot Prawns Butter Garlic Cloves

Method

This is my favourite way to prepare them: it involves lots of finger licking and plenty of napkins. Heat a dab of butter (2 – 3 oz) in a medium hot frying pan, toss in two or three cloves of minced garlic and 1 lb fresh prawn tails in the shell. Cook for two minutes turning prawns over after one minute. Serve straight from the pan with a fresh baguette for mopping up the buttery juices. If this is a little too messy for you, shell the tails first and reduce the cooking time to about 1.5 minutes. While you’re prepping your prawns, take a minute to peel one and pop it in your mouth raw. The sweet briny ocean flavour is dazzling!

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

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

Raise Your Glass to Alexandra Morton and bid BIG at this Fundraiser Event in Cow Bay

n Saturday, May 18th join supporters as they raise both their glasses and important funds needed to help Alexandra Morton protect BC’s natural wild salmon stocks from extinction. The evening will commence with samples from delicious local vineyards, tasty Spot Prawn and other reception nibbles from the kitchen of the Oceanfront Suites in Cowichan Bay. Ticket holders will have exclusive opportunities to bid on fantastic silent auction items such as rainforest and fishing getaways, gourmet seafood baskets, fine restaurant vouchers, artisan gemstone jewelry, beautiful works by renowned BC artists and more! Bring your cheque book! Alexandra Morton and filmmaker Twyla Roscovich will be in attendance for an update and Q&A discussion on the currently touring documentary Salmon Confidential (www.salmonconfidential.ca). The film is about the government cover up on European viruses that are killing BC’s wild salmon. A DVD copy of the film

Alex pulls net.

will be given with each ticket sold for supporters to view before attending. In an endorsement of Morton’s film Salmon Confidential, David Suzuki commented, “For years, Alexandra Morton has soldiered on providing evidence of and calling for action on the catastrophic state of wild salmon. Government and industries have thwarted her over and over again. This film clearly documents that governments do not put protection of wild salmon at the top of their priorities and Canadians should be outraged. I am.” The event aims to help raise essential funds needed to ensure the continuation of Morton’s research and work related to protecting BC’s wild salmon from the impact of open net industrial salmon feedlots. This one event you will not want to miss! Tickets are available in Duncan and in Cowichan Bay. See you there!

Gala Fundraiser for Alexandra Morton

Adv $25/Door $35 (Cash Only) Sat, May 18 6:30pm - 9:30pm

Oceanfront Suites in Cowichan Bay Tickets will be available at the door and in advance from Bucky’s and The Community Farm Store in Duncan and Cowichan Bay Seafood

Available from Cherry Point Vineyards, The Worldly Gourmet, The Community Farm Store Ingredients: Health & Apple Cafe

rosettastonekitchenware.com

All mom’s deserve stone kitchenware! Cowichan Bay Spot Prawn Festival May 19th, 2013

Image Tourism Tofino/Chris Pouget

How will you FEAST this May? Feast Tofino, running May 1-31, is a month-long celebration of boat-to-table cuisine and the abundance of seafood fished minutes from Tofino. “May is a very exciting time for us to celebrate the natural abundance of the ocean,” said Bobby Lax, Community Food Coordinator, Tofino-Ucluelet Culinary Guild. “The salmon are returning, spot prawn season begins, and oysters are at their best.” While Tofino restaurants prepare set-price menus ranging from $29-$49/person, a variety of accommodations offer special Feast-themed savings or added value. Visiting chefs this May

include CBC Radio’s Khalil Akhtar, Victoria’s own Kunal Gose of Red Fish Blue Fish, Trevor Bird of Top Chef fame and now Vancouver’s Fable Restaurant, Lucais Syme of La Quercia, and more. The Saturday, May 25th Dockside Festival is an afternoon of seafood tastings, education and live music - at a mere $10 a head, with kids under 10 years of age entering free of charge. How will you Feast this May?

Feast Tofino May 1 - 31 May 25th Dockside Festival $10

www.tourismtofino.com

Next To Nature Trading Visit Us for MOTHER’S DAY Fudge and Gifts at Whippletree Junction!

Puzzles • Mohair Socks • Sheepskin Slippers • Fair Trade Sweaters • Cards • Pottery • Salt Lamps and more!

Beaver House Fudge

250 748 6647

Featuring Cabernet/Dark Chocolate Fudge for Mother’s Day www.beaverhousefudge.com

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

on the farm

with Makaria Farm

Interested in opening a business? Join 49th Parallel Grocery, Island Savings Credit Union, Pharmasave, Village Liquor Store and more...

y name is Heather, and I have a tomato addiction. It started five years ago, when I flipped through a West Coast Seed catalogue and discovered that there are hundreds (thousands!) of different tomato varieties, from salty, heirloom black tomatoes to sweet and juicy cherries. I couldn’t resist buying multiple seed packets, and since there are usually 30 or more seeds per packet that meant we grew way too many tomato plants for our new farm. As the rambunctious seedlings began to take over the wee greenhouse we’d built for them, we decided to have a tomato plant sale to connect our surplus babies with loving homes. And lo – Makaria Farm’s annual organic tomato plant sale was born. In the years since, this event has become a Cowichan tradition. My fellow tomato addicts come from all over the Islands to choose from the dozens of tomato varieties we grow. Favourites include Sun Gold cherry tomatoes, the hideous but extraordinarytasting Black Krims, and the perfect, coreless Pink Beauties. We’ll have tomato plants available at the Duncan and Nanaimo farmers’ markets throughout May and early June, but if you want to truly

revel in tomato decadence then mark Sunday, May 19 on your calendar. We’ll see you here at Makaria Farm, from 10am until 1pm. Tip to prevent transplant shock: It might seem easiest to dig a hole and stick your tomato plant in it, but if you do this you risk exposing the plant to the chillier soil underneath that sun-warmed top layer. Tomato plants may turn blue/ purple-ish as a result — a sign of transplant shock. They will take longer to recover, which may affect the time or quality of your tomato harvest.

Learn about Chemainus Village Square leasing opportunities: John Kelly 250-920-9713 jkelly@onsitesales.ca I www.onsitesales.ca

Many tomato plants are vines (“indeterminate”), so here’s a quick tip on transplanting vining tomato plants: lay each tomato in its place horizontally on the garden bed, then cover the rootball with soil from the warm top layer of the garden bed surrounding it. Carefully but firmly pat down the dirt to ensure plant/soil contact, then water the root area thoroughly. Eventually, the tomato plant will turn up toward the sun. Makaria Farm’s 5th Annual Organic Tomato Plant Sale takes place on Sunday, May 19 10am -1pm. in Cowichan Stataion. Brock McLeod owns and operates Makaria Farm with his wife Heather. www.makariafarm.com

Farm and Garden

Kids visit a number of educational booths about identifying fish, the rules and regulations about local lakes and rivers, how to tie knots and how to cast prior to fishing for catchable size trout supplied by the Fish Hatchery in Duncan.

Hike For Hospice Sunday May 5th

A Sure Sign Of Spring: The Hike For Hospice Is Just Around The Corner!

iking for Cowichan Valley Hospice makes a difference! Last year funds raised at the Hike contributed to a youth bereavement support group, run collaboratively with Community Options Society. Here is what one of the facilitators had to say: One of the most moving moments for me was when we attended the Hospice Christmas tree light-up at the hospital. We knew that it was going to be a very difficult night for the youth but we also felt that it was a perfect opportunity to honor the memory of their mother or father at Christmas. At one point in the evening I looked over and the youth were all linked together arm in arm, offering support to one of the participants who was feeling very emotional. I knew at that moment they had forged a bond that went deeper than words and one that only they could truly understand. The death of a parent is a lifechanging event and one that can only be known by those who have experienced such an overwhelming loss. These youth are my heroes. Candace

Kirby, Youth Facilitator Consider making a difference to grieving people of all ages, form a team and join us at the the Hike for Hospice. This year’s Hike for Cowichan Valley Hospice will be on Sunday May 5, 2013 from 10:30 am to 1pm. Once again the Hike will offer a 2 or 4 km stroll on the beautiful trails at Providence Farm, with a free barbeque lunch for those who have collected pledges. A labyrinth on the edge of the woods is a meditative alternative to the trails. Foot soaks and foot care will be available...(the practitioners’motto is “We’ll soak you for $5!”) This year we will have a variety of local musicians for our listening pleasure! There will also be an opportunity to help paint a new canvas labyrinth that will be available for use by the community when it is complete. There are incentive prizes for fundraising! This year we hope to raise $40,000 for hospice services. Sign up your team today at www. cowichanvalleyhospice.org or call 250-701-4242 for more information.

7th Annual “Kids Learn to Fish” Day

Saturday, May 4 10 am-2 pm Chemainus Lake Lunch , drink and prizes for kids

Conservation Officers are also there to explain the importance of following the rules. Kids may participate in stocking the lake, catch and release, furthering the education of sustainability. There are fly tying demonstrations and many other fun activities. Each child receives a free hot dog and a drink, as well as a participation prize.

The Cowichan Fly Fishers of Duncan, BC and Freshwater Fisheries will be hosting the 7th Annual Kids Learn to Fish Day on Saturday, May 4th at Chemainus Lake. This day of fun and activities is to introduce children and their families to the sport of fishing, environmental awareness and enjoyment of nature. There will be no charge to the participants, as we wish it to be enjoyed by all families. The focus of this day is to educate and encourage participants about the importance of protecting nature and sport fishing, to ensure a better chance of both surviving tomorrow.

Bench Elementary’s Annual Fun Fair

Saturday, May 11 10:30 am - 3 pm Bench Elementary School 1501 Cowichan Bay Road Cowichan Bay Our Fun Fair is just around the corner! We are filled to the brim with games and activities - make a basket for Mother’s Day, enjoy a nice cold slushy, shop for clothes, books and plants. Rain or Shine, come on out!

www.makecheese.ca

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

Cowichan Valley’s growing conditions and that way you can be sure that you are starting with seeds that will grow well here in this region and climate, and have greater success. Open pollinated seeds are what gardeners need in order to save their own seeds and have control over their food security. Hybrid seeds require repeat purchasing each year and often are owned by individuals or corporations.

Every Seed Has A Story

ot many gardeners think about the story behind the seeds they are planting, but as Robin Sturley points out, “People brought their favorite seed with them from their homelands and that is why we have such diversity in the varieties of seeds that we can grow today.” Each seed has a story of where it came from, who brought the seed from where, and how long has the seed been around. Robin says some seeds date back to the 1600’s. Robin has partnered with Nora Arajs and together they have started a local seed company in the Cowichan Valley called “Edible Earth Seeds.” They are specializing in open pollinated heirloom and rare seeds. When asked, “Why should we plant locally grown seeds?” Robin says “Each generation becomes more adaptive to the

Edible Earth Seeds focuses on growing seeds that are reliable for this growing region and climate, seeds that will survive over a long time, and seeds that can be dried and used as a storage food, such as beans and peas. Edible Earth grows seed for home gardeners as well as wholesale for Dan at Salt Spring Seeds. Both Robin and Nora have a love for seeds and want to encourage gardeners to grow and save their own seeds. Nora says, “Start by growing what you love from seed, then introduce a new one each year.” Stores Selling Edible Earth Seeds include:Community Farm Store, Glenora Store, Cowichan Green Community To learn more about saving seed and what workshops are being offered, contact Robin or Nora at edibleearthseeds.com Joy Story, helps people grow food! Check out her on-line Magazine and Newsletter growfoodnetwork. com

Helpful Garden Ready…Set…Grow!

working tirelessly to clean the surface, weed, prune, plant and mulch, I take it one section at a time.

nce again and FINALLY, summer is nearly here. These are the months I live for, June, July and August. Maybe it harkens back to childhood summer breaks from school when life was carefree and no deadlines were in effect. During summer, things happened only when we wanted them to, not when they had to. I nostalgically wish for a relaxing season, where everything that needs to be done just seems to happen, all with little to no effort. Sure, you can pay someone to do all that work (and trust me, lately I have due to some mobility issues that are being dealt with medically but not fast enough for me) but there is little or no satisfaction without the art of gardening being an integral part of my life. My new gardening routine is a slower and more thoughtful process than before. I set smaller but more thorough goals because I cannot physically put that much effort into what needs to be done. Instead of tackling an entire garden bed and

By tackling a smaller area with each work session, I find that I’m being more thorough because I don’t feel pressed for time to get the whole bed done in one afternoon. By taking on a 10 foot section at a time and making THAT my goal, my garden has never been better groomed and prepped for the upcoming summer season. Each inch of soil has been gone over, and not necessarily turned over. I recently learned that by not turning over your soil as frequently, you will preserve the environment of many solitary bees that burrow in soil for nesting as opposed to nesting in wood or crevasses. Will my garden be in the best shape of its life despite ME not being in the best shape of my life? Yes. Will it be ready by summer? Maybe. And, once it’s done, I’ll I be sitting back, enjoying the beauty I’ve created and life can be carefree with no deadlines in effect…until I realize that I forgot to water. Back to work! Ajay Oppelaar, President of the Mill Bay Garden Club. Contact him at arkengardens@ gmail.com

Farm and arden Pages

Home and Ofﬁce Cleaning Have a Healthy, Happy Home

earthfriendclean@hotmail.com

250-929-6685

almon Confidential is a controversial new film on the government cover up of what is killing BC’s wild salmon. When biologist Alexandra Morton discovers BC’s wild salmon are testing positive for dangerous European salmon viruses that are associated with salmon farming worldwide, a chain of events is set off by government to suppress the findings. The film documents Morton’s journey as she attempts to overcome government & industry roadblocks thrown in her path as she works to bring critical information to the public in time to save BC’s wild salmon. Tracking viruses, Morton moves from courtrooms, into British Columbia’s most remote rivers, Vancouver grocery stores and sushi restaurants. The film provides surprising insight into the inner workings of government agencies, as well as rare footage of the bureaucrats tasked with managing our fish and the safety of our food supply. Local community groups are hosting Salmon Confidential screenings across BC, followed by discussion with Morton & Roscovich about the making of the film, the viruses, politics and how people can come together to restore wild salmon – the Department of Wild Salmon. The film is being released online, in addition to the public showings. “It is critical people hear what is happening to this generous fish and why. We don’t have to be helpless

bystanders as government tries to bury the evidence. The careers of all who dare to research these European viruses in BC are under attack, but disease in salmon cannot be a federal secret any longer if we want wild salmon to be here for our children, ” said Morton. “For years, Alexandra Morton has soldiered on providing evidence of and calling for action on the catastrophic state of wild salmon. Government and industries have thwarted her over and over again. This film clearly documents that governments do not put protection of wild salmon at the top of their priorities and Canadians should be outraged. I am.” David Suzuki The upcoming election has given the film tour a sense of urgency. “This whole nightmare could be over tomorrow and we could have our wild fish back if the next provincial leader commits to removing salmon feedlots from the wild salmon migration routes. They need to hear from the public that the wild salmon economy is too valuable to sacrifice to the salmon farm industry. The people of BC deserve to know what is documented in this film and then they can let candidates know they will be taking wild salmon to the polls” said Roscovich. Want to learn more? On May 18, the Spot Prawn Festival is hosting a Wine Tasting Fundraiser Event in Cowichan Bay. Alexandra

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

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

Dine In on our heated patio or Take Out! Cowichan Bay and Twyla will be there for a special update on the most recent events since the release of the film last month and will be available for a special Q&A discussion about the film. Entry is $25 in advance or $35 at the door. A DVD copy of the documentary will be

given with every ticket sold. The organizers ask that you please watch the film before attending the event. For more information about the film visit salmonconfidential.ca. For more information about the Wine Tasting Fundraiser visit www.prawnfest.ca

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

sPRING building Projects to inspire

wrong”, an unfortunate outcome that can be avoided by knowing your limitations and knowing when to hire a professional. The most important characteristics of a great deck are safety, structure, functionality, and style. Above all a deck must be safe, structurally sound, and in accordance with local building regulations. To be an effective outdoor living space, a deck should take into consideration all of your seating, dining, and relaxation needs. Finally, a deck should be designed to take advantage of its natural surroundings and compliment the style of the home it is attached to. A professional contractor who is experienced in deck construction can guide you through the process from start to finish, and leave you with a deck that can be enjoyed for many years to come. Jim, Demeter Construction

Why hire a pro?

Deck constructed by Demeter Construction Not All Decks Are Created Equal Spring has finally arrived and our focus now turns to spending time outdoors and enjoying all that outdoor living has to offer. A deck is the perfect place to relax and unwind after a long day, serve up some great food straight off the grill or lounge away a lazy weekend afternoon. A well, built deck can be a valuable addition to your home and provide you with the ideal location to enjoy island life from the comfort of your own yard. Unfortunately not all decks are created equal. Too many times I have seen the scenario of a “deck gone

Painting Preparation That Pros Do The foundation of a good, durable paint job is solid preparation and the first step is a thorough wash. Besides chalky residue from the existing weathered paint and plain old dirt, mildew and algae growth is common in our west coast climate. If not washed properly from surfaces, these organisms can continue to grow under a new layer of paint, eventually causing the coating to peel. Salt residue from our proximity to

• Wood Doors • Wood Windows • Repairs to All Types of Doors & Windows

250-743-4011

www.kwdoorsandwindows.com Heritage Homes a Specialtyom

Finished Exterior by Kingfisher Painting the ocean is another surface contaminant that needs to be addressed in the wash process. Removing all flaking, peeling, blistered paint, sanding, dulling glossy surfaces, priming bare wood, caulking, filling, replacing broken window glazing are standard. When small to medium areas of rot are encountered, they are repaired with a two part system consisting of a rot stabilizer that petrifies the rot and a two part epoxy wood filler. In some instances a carpentry repair will be required. If the substrate is stucco, active open cracks should be caulked with a high quality elastomeric caulking. Larger cracks can be treated with a single component urethane caulking or may require repair. Sound preparation not only gives you a long-lasting paint job, it will make your house look good. Professional quotes detail areas that have been included, gives an in-depth description of the preparation process, lists the type of paints and number of coats we will be applying to each area, provides colour schemes, schedule, site protocol, and more. David, Kingfisher Painting

The Viridian Energy Co-operative group has established excellent pricing with key suppliers and are able to pass on substantial savings in the form of a bulk buy. This offer will be open until the end of May, 2013. Please contact us for more details.

Solar Hot Water * Up to $800 discount * Flat plate and tube systems

Solar PV * Offset your Electricity * Starter package $4950

Tel:250 466-4909 E-mail:info@viridianenergy.ca

www.viridianenergy.ca

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

L W c t N l t b b f e

Let the Light Shine In! Windows and glass doors can make a huge difference to a gloomy place in a home. Nothing is the same as natural light, a view of the outdoors and the sound of birds singing! To begin, a good carpenter should be consulted about the home’s framing. Some walls are very easy to alter for new openings

Beautify your home for Enjoyment this year!

Folding Glass Doors, from KW and some are more expensive. South and west facing glazing will allow the most daylight in, but if morning light is desired east facing is better. Adding French doors can transform a room, offering new access to a yard as well

as a lot of natural light and view. To add interior light, consider adding glass doors to bedrooms or bathrooms which can help add daylight into dingy hallways. There is a large selection of obscure glass available for interiors. Home designers will be pleased to know that most decorative, obscure glass is quite affordable. For special looks there are always expensive art glass options as well. High performance glass is very reasonably priced and will pay for itself in a short time as it can improve energy savings and security. Condensation should be a thing of the past unless moisture levels in the home are very high. If reuse, repair and reclaim is your motto, a common glass repair we do is the replacement of fogged sealed glass units and easy job that keeps your glass clear and bright. Keith, KW Doors and Windows Step It Up! We’re so lucky to live on the ‘Rock’. Flatlanders have little in terms of grade to terrace and accentuate their properties with ‘falling water’ style features. Besides the beautiful effect, terracing your yard in stone can slow water erosion, avoid the use of concrete and provide easy to maintain and fast growing beds for flowers, vegetables or even trees. Hard pan clay is best dealt with by terracing as

Terraced Steps, David Coulson Designs you dig less and introduce raised soil beds with compost and other good dirt instead of digging laborious holes in the ground. Step one is to carve wide terraces. In clay, it’s like sculpting. Make the terraces wide enough to accommodate the wall on the low side so minimum 18” is lost to walls whether you use stone, brick, stacking blocks or recycled smashed concrete sidewalk chunks.Remember all heavy things go well down hill so plan to deliver at the top and just about anything you need can be moved easily in a wheelbarrow, hand truck or wagon. For large items, the Egyptian method. On old wood fence poles or pipes, just like the pyramids were built. To get back up the hill, my favourite are basalt steps available at Island Stone at the south end of Shawnigan Lake. These consistent risers of 7” to 8” thick slabs are roughly $50 to $60

For full design/build service, give us a call

 250.746.5372 • coulsondesign@shaw.ca • www.davidcoulsondesign.com  25

each and available by the pallet. Allow $200 to deliver and you have a natural staircase for about $750 that will last 10 lifetimes. With a small excavator and a bit of crushed gravel or road base on hand, I have assembled as many as three staircases before morning coffee or roughly one flight an hour for a DIY. That is simply impossible to beat in any material. If done by hand, they average 350 pounds a piece so not for the faint of heart. The heavy work is now done, go out and fill every niche with something to eat or admire! David, David Coulson Designs Metals Need Little Maintenance There are many benefits to using metal, in your home. Pieces can be made in small lightweight sections to suit your purpose and budget. There is no real maintenance except a quick wipe now and then and it is the most durable of all materials. If you give metal structures a powder coat, the life of the structure can extend 25 to 30 years. Metal fabrication is the building of metal structures by cutting, bending and

Metal Railing, Done Right Fabrication and Welding

in every stage of development. Our slinger truck can take raw material and “sling” it in place with almost no additional labour or machinery helping cut costs and time. Our “tub grinder” will “grind” and recycle almost all site material into new fill and topsoil contributing to a near zero-waste, eco-friendly, job site. These contractors will also be able to advise on budget, esthetics, and best land use, helping to avoid common pit falls (financial

assembling processes. Fabricators often work with other contractors in custom design and installation. A professional fabricator can take your idea for stair railings, gates and fences and create custom structures that are built to last. We’ll discuss the design, structural integrity, types of metal, painting, and usage of the structure with you to best suit your needs. Mark, Done Right Fabrication and Welding. Civil Contractors To Take The Load Professional civil contractors can help with all stages of land development. From raw land to landscaped pond areas these contractors can take an undeveloped site, help you plan, design, and developed your project. When hiring a large civil contractor, you will be assured that current building codes, as well as sensitivity to land use and surrounding ecosystems are addressed. We own and operate large and specialty machinery that can be used

Rock wall terracing on redeveloped home. Graf Excavating and structural) often faced by do-it-yourselfers. Whether your home project needs a new rock retaining wall, septic systems, pond building, or topsoil/aggregate landscaping, a pro will have access to materials, knowledge, and experience not often accessible by the public, to help you create your end vision. Rod, Graf Excavating

RESIDENTIAL SERVICES All Aspects of Site Prep and Excavation Retaining Wall Construction Slinger Truck Service Septic System Design and Installation Supply and Placement of Aggregates and Soil COR Safety Certified

Graf Excavating Company Ltd. Servicing Central Vancouver Island Telephone: 250-245-8762 Rod Brownsword, Area contact: 250-889-9414 In business for over 20 years.

Visit our Website: www.grafexcavating.com

JOIN OUR COMMUNITY

OPEN HOUSE 1 to 4pm

Thu - Sun, • Park Model homes • Affordable lifestyle of freedom and fun • Garden & Forest setting • Pets welcome •100% onsite ﬁnancing (conditions apply)

250-324-2424 3042 River Road, Chemainus www.ChemainusGardens.com

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

How Much Water?

’m often asked how much water plants need. A hotly debated topic, dependent on many factors including temperature, precipitation, location etc. I use a general rule of thumb and modify. Most landscape plantings and lawns require 1” water a week. Herbs are plant specific. Fruiting plants fit the 1” water a week

rule unless fruiting. Once bearing fruit, increase rate to 2” a week, more water translates to better fruit.

four applications. Planters and baskets generally need daily watering, split into morning and evening.

How much is 1”? Hand watering is tough, I recommend watering each plant with a low flow shower spray until water sits on the surface, move to the next plant etc, then start back at the beginning –– water twice weekly adjusting for conditions and plant health. Measure sprinklers by placing a half dozen shallow cans around, and run the sprinkler for 15 minutes. Measure each can and average, multiply by four for hourly rate. Split watering into a twice weekly schedule. The optimum schedule splits the two watering days to two waterings a few hours apart.

There are numerous watering devices on the market from hoses to intricate computer operated irrigation systems. Somewhere in the middle is microirrigation, micro refers to the application rate of water not system size. Today we have access to irrigation advancements from around the world. Imagine using a system designed to grow food in the desert where every drop counts, in your garden. Designed to apply water at a rate the soil and plants can absorb without a drop being lost. A micro-irrigation system reduces your water consumption by 50% and results in a healthier vibrant garden. It has also been known to reduce weeding time!

Why? When water is applied to the soil it moves vertically. When you stop application, the water has capillary action and moves laterally and upwards in the soil to be absorbed. Again there are exceptions, both roses and lawns do best when receiving all their water on a once weekly schedule, split into

David Pink operates Warm Land Irrigation loves to play in other people’s gardens and grow food with his wife Diana at Damali in Cobble Hill.

100% Natural Latex Foam Rubber is the most durable mattress material available. It is completely renewable, sustainable,nontoxic, hypoallergenic, temperature regulating and terriﬁc for pressure point relief.

100% Natural Latex Foam Rubber is from the milk of the rubber tree. Rubber trees grow within 10 degrees of the equator and constitute some of the best managed forest systems in the world. Therefore, natural latex is very eco-friendly. the foam made from these trees is not subject to the body impression issues that you ﬁnd in regular coil mattesses.

Natural Latex Queen Mattress with bamboo cover $1199, King $1499

Duncan Foam & Futons 4485 Trans Canada Hwy (in Crossroads Centre) (Serving the Valley for 20 years)

250 746-0702

By Eliza Faulkner

hat better way to ring in the season than with an Easter weekend full of clear blue skies and temperatures in the teens. That’s how Cowichinians welcomed the change of seasons last month and with that one hit of warm sunny weather, it’s safe to say we’re ‘chomping at the bit’ to get outside and enjoy the elements. Downtown Duncan is feeling that vibe too and wants to

provide the community with just what it needs to enjoy this season of outdoor living, sports and leisure activity. Bucky’s, located on the corner of Craig and Kenneth Street has long been the local go-to supplier for fishing equipment, camping gear, and hunting

to check out their huge range of Columbia clothing if kit is required for your sporting life. If extreme sporting is what you’re into then head on over to CRC, Extreme Sporting on Government Street. CRC

e F f p l b t N f s c V a y

paraphernalia. You will also find that they carry everything for your athletic requirements from basketballs, to soccer and volleyballs too. Don’t forget

“It’s the very best toyshop in the whole wide world!”

May 9th 6pm-8pm Open House to meet Naturopathic Doctor, Daisey Kent, Acupuncturist/ herbalist, Tobi Panter and Massage Therapist, Lindsay Campa Silvernfern Integration Community Health Clinic

Formal Wear Seasonal Coats & Jackets Casual Wear Ballet Wear Christening Gowns Footware Jumpers Pj’s and more!

63 Station Street Duncan 250 748 4445

www.gigglegearclothing.com

May Events

Downtown Duncan Sunday, May 4th 3:30-5:00p Parent & Child Event Celebrating Pop Artist Keith Haring’s Birthday $30+tax 4 Cats Art Studio

Quality clothing for kids From Newborn to size 14 for both boys and girls!

has got all the equipment one needs for flying remote control air and land craft. Located on top of Jims Pools & Spas, CRC will help you get your old remote control mobiles up and running and out in the

May 10th to May 25th 4th annual CVOLC Art Show Excellent Frameworks

158 Craig Street

Downtown Duncan 250 748 5545

Downtown Duncan

May 12th 2pm - 5pm Open Mic MS Society Art Show for the month of May Coffee on the Moon

D d a P p P o s w f

T a a a t w A o i y n

A h

elements in no time. For the skateboarder in the family, there’s no better place than Area 51. This is a long-time favourite of valley boarders and after stepping in their shop you will see why. Not only are skateboards their forte; they’ve also got a huge selection of skate shoes and clothes for both guys and gals. Volcom, Roxy, and Converse are just a few of the brands you will find here. Don’t forget to check out the downtown’s newest fashion addition for athletic style – Pursuit of Happiness. A yoga, pilates and dancewear shop, Pursuit of Happiness is full of bright coloured leggings, sports bras, and logo tees which will all leave you feeling very happy indeed. The Valley is also home to an incredible system of trails and if you’re a horse lover and rider then it’s the best time to take canter through the woods. Pets Plus on Canada Avenue has a wide selection of riding equipment and gear if replacing the remnants from your spring closet clear out is necessary. And with summer on the horizon it’s the perfect time

to get your patio in the mode for relaxing, lounging, and BBQ. Pots and Paraphernalia has a beautiful range of cook ware to stock up your outdoor BBQ. Choose from an array of gorgeous linens to throw over the picnic table, or stock up on an outdoor dish set. Give your patio a vintage touch with a trip to Belongings. Here you will find fantastic weathered stools, tables, and chairs to give your patio that covetable rustic look. We all know this is the season to get back into the garden. Cardino’s has an array of great gardening shoes in fun colours and easy slip on styles to inspire you to get out there in the yard. Remember to pay a visit to the Cowichan Green Community’s Thrift Store. Here you will find all sorts of great second-hand gardening spades, shovels and more. Stock up on seeds for planting and perhaps pick up some gardening clothes while you’re at it. Spring is here, and summer is near. So get outside, enjoy the sun, and visit Downtown Duncan for all of your outdoor summer supplies!

Starting May 9 Nika would like to welcome her friendly fellow stylist Debbie to the salon. With 17 years experience, she is excited to share her vision of melding fresh style with the values of natural beauty. Debbie is accepting new clients so call soon to book your new spring look.

Join us on Saturday May 11 in the courtyard from 11am-3pm for our grand re-opening. Refreshments, Door prizes, 15% off all natural hair care products, new and funky hair accessories as well as the reveal of our new salon name... Salon Services for the Whole Family! Gift Certificates Available! Call for Appointments.

Matraea Centre 170 Craig Street Duncan 250-715-1219

Downtown Duncan

Excellent FrameWorks and the E. J. Hughes Gallery Art for your empty walls. Gifts for yourself and others. We can print your photos on canvas. We want to frame your art for you. 28 station St downtown duncan 250-746-7112

Imagine That! Artisan Ken Broadland

oodturner Ken Broadland caters to weddings. Well, not exactly . . . he caters to the wish lists of brides and grooms all over the world. He estimates that perhaps 70 percent of the customers who purchase his work at Imagine That! or at his home studio are shopping for wedding gifts, and all are looking for something unique, handmade and representative of the Cowichan Valley.

are his specialty, but in his “Heartwood Studio” workshop near Duncan he also produces cooking utensils and utensil holders, snack bowls, serving trays and platters, cutting boards, fruit bowls and many other useful and decorative items. Finishes are food-friendly walnut oil (or mineral oil on some of the cutting boards) with a beeswax topcoat to add extra lustre.

The remaining 30 percent of his customers are looking for something special to give themselves! Some find the perfect wedding gift but can’t bear to part with it so they return to “Imagine That!” and choose a different one of Ken’s natural wood treasures to give the happy couple. Others, like a recent visitor from Toronto, have received something of Ken’s for their own wedding and enjoyed using it so much that they come “out West” to find one-of-a-kind gifts for their friends.

Ken’s work is popular because it is reasonably priced and unembellished. He lets the wood grains and colours speak for themselves and simply makes what the particular piece of maple, arbutus, cedar, plum or other character wood allows him to make. It is a passion that sees him spending many happy hours in his workshop, satisfying the wish lists of many newlyweds.

Ken’s forte as an artisan is to find pretty woods on Vancouver Island and turn them into a form that is both functional and beautiful. Salad bowls and spoons

Downtown Duncan Business Association

Ken is having a special display of his work in the Imagine That! window, 251 Craig Street in Duncan to May 31st. Image; live edge curly birds eye maple bowl.

eye

Talking Arts • SKANDA Jewellry Workshop

our women gathered one evening in a studio boutique Downtown Duncan ecstatic because tonight they were going to learn how to make their own jewelry. The intro class offered by Skanda, would send each lady home with 2 sets of earrings and a pendant and chain set to match. Each gemstone,

pearl or crystal was chosen by it’s wearer, yet each method of

construction was exactly the same. This particular class, first taught by Skanda’s owner and designer Mary Wakefield has been offered from her Victoria store for over a decade. “When Skanda first opened we carried a small selection of gemstone beads, and I made jewellery with the beads and findings for the store. I had a comments book out on display for people to sign, and loads of people said they wanted to see me teach bead classes. That was 12 years ago, and we have been teaching the beginner class ever since. To

Now Open Canadian designed and manufactured ﬁt wear, yoga pants & hoodies, plus a range of yoga mats and props.

date we have taught over 4000 people how to make jewellery! People getting to experience their creative side, some for the very first time.” The classsimple, fun and rewarding teaches basic professional wire working skills, paving the way for future jewellry designing and projects. Like many budding designers before us, the group sitting here were all learning these key professional jewelry making skills for the very first time. “ I love to collect beads and shells but I was having a hard time transforming my ideas into wearable pieces. I knew I needed to learn some proper jewelry making techniques.” shares Tina Reynolds a class participant. All of us had dabbled with beads in the past but the introduction of specialized tools, gemstones, sterling silver and plated gold materials were not part of our repertoire. A very special evening indeed. All of Skanda’s instructors come with a wealth of design and gemstone knowledge and inspiring store made jewellery surrounds us everywhere with every single component of the piece available in the store. Classes are suitable for ages 10 and up making them a

perfect mother-daughter activity. But why stop at those 2? Grandmothers, siblings, girlfriends, everyone will enjoy sharing this unique experience to create something lasting for their memories and jewelry collection. There are many different projects to choose from, but everyone should take the basic intro to wireworking first. Private class parties are often booked to create jewellry sets for bridal parties, birthing, graduation, costumingyou name it! And the best part? All the pieces can be taken apart and gems, chains, clasps and findings remade into something new. Class participants are also welcome to bring in their own

drilled gemstones and chains for learning - another way to keep the overall jewellry costs down. Classes are $50 per person plus whichever materials you choose for your jewellry sets. Gemstones range from $3 - $50 so only your own taste and budget will dictate your jewelry projects. A great gift idea for Mother’s Day!

55B Lois Lane in Duncan’s City Square Monday – Saturday 10am-5pm I

(778) 422-1316

Downtown Duncan Business Association

NailS

By Lucie

Collage & You

AT ILONA’S NAIL STUDIO

New Acrylic or Gel Set $45 Refills $35 Acrylic or Gel Re-fills with Colours, Sparkles & Nail Art - Starting at $37 Basic Manicure Basic $22 Pedicure $40

acrylic • gel nails • manicures • pedicures For appointments call 250 746 0903 Are You Prepared For The Inevitable?

Do You Have? • • • • •

A Will An Enduring Power of Attorney A Medical Representation Agreement An Advance Medical Directive (Living Will) An Estate Plan (that deals with jointly owned property, corporate property, trusts, registered accounts, life insurance, income tax and probate fees)

R. Brian McDaniel – bmcd@mcdancolaw.com Julia E. Henderson – jeh@mcdancolaw.com

Call Us To Discuss Your Plans 201 – 64 Station Street Duncan BC V9L 1M4

Tel: 250-748-6633 Fax: 250-748-1496

www.mcdancolaw.com

’ve always been drawn to collage art. The way that found images can be cut out and rearranged to create a completely new picture and meaning, is quite alluring, playful and free. After making collages for 20 years, I guess you could say I’m hooked. I recently came across another person making collages, yet adding a whole new dimension to the process. Her name is Seena Frost, a retired psychologist based in Santa Cruz. While she was still in practise, she would have her clients pick out compelling images and create collages. She found these therapeutic collaged cards, helped her clients access their own innate intuitive wisdom. She did this by getting them to use an imaginative process of “stepping into” their cards and have the cards “speak back” to them. They would simply start by saying, “ I am the one who.....” and let the characters in the cards finish the sentence. I tried this process with some of my own collages and was impressed and moved by the messages I received. How did this work? Seena explained “the part of the brain that accesses our intuition and subconscious, is the right brain. Our right brain responds and communicates through images (unlike our left hemisphere that deal with words and logical thinking). Therefore by letting ourselves create using images that “call out to us”, we are

Local Arts

in direct connection to this important part of ourselves. Our deepest intuitive knowing, which is often over shadowed by our practical left brain. Here’s an example of one of my recent SoulCollage® cards and the message I garnered from it. I had no idea while I was creating the card what it would eventually come to mean. Here’s what it “spoke” back to me: I am the storm protectress. I am the one who reminds you that you are stronger than you know. You can weather the storms of life. I have since made over 80 SoulCollage® cards and use them for my personal readings on a regular basis.The guidance and wisdom that I gather from this process has been invaluable and grounding to me. A true source of deep self reflection. Dawn Howlett is teaching SoulCollage in the Cowichan Valley. hearttohome.ca

T n I t j a b r fi f c T i 1 o P f a F e w

Songwriters Competition The Islands Songwriting Contest is now open to all residents of Vancouver Islands and the Gulf Islands. This year’s theme is Food. Submissions will be judged on creativity, performance and attention to the theme. The contest will be divided into three regions. Each region will be short listed to 9 semi– finalists who will perform their song in front of a live audience. The audience chooses the finalists from each region. The top 3 from each region gain entry into the finals to be held Friday July 19th, during the opening Friday night of the Islands Folk Festival held at Providence Farm in Duncan. Deadline for entries is June 1st. Entry fee is $25 and all proceeds support the Islands Folk Festival.Complete Contest rules and entry forms may be found at www.islandsfolkfestival.ca.

Sunday Afternoon Jazz in Crofton Up and running again after a 12 year hiatus! Hosted by Pat Selman, The Crofton Hotel Pub presents live Jazz every Sunday afternoon from 2 to 5pm. “Katz-n-Jammerz” allows our local talent to sit in for 15 minutes during the third set. All shows $10. Crofton Hotel Pub 1534 Joan Ave For info 250-324-2245 Jazz will be stage May 5, 12, 19 & 26.

Painter Judy Hudson Now on show at the Cowichan Theatre Gallery. Judy Hudson’s landscapes are not the dramatic kind. The bold mountain-vistas, large lakes and windblown fir trees so often associated with Canadian landscape painting, are missing. Hudson’s landscapes are delicate and intimate, odes to marshlands and fields, lyrical and above all, local. “I go back to old favourite subjects ~ the trees, the marsh ~ and rediscover them again and again with a new technique or medium,” Judy explains. “This retrospectivetype show is fun for following those subjects as they reappear in different forms over the years.” Hudson revels in working with many media and, as true artists do, forgets the subject matter once she starts working. With past gallery connections in Vancouver and Toronto, Cowichan Valley residents now have a rare opportunity to see this art work exhibited locally. Her works will be on view till May 15th.Submitted by Astri Wright

Marsh side by J Hudson

Zak Stolk Violin Maker

25 Years Experience of Lutherie in the Italian Tradition. Making and repair and restoration of Violins, Viola, Cello, Double Bass, Harp, and all manner of Stringed Instruments. 250-749-6563 zakviolins@shaw.ca www.zakviolins.com

Delicious Lies Runs to May 18th

ffering entertainment and new theatrical experiences is the goal that The Chemainus Theatre Festival seeks to achieve with the production of Delicious Lies. As a special adaptation of 1671 comedy Les Fourberies de Scapin (“Scapin’s Deceits”), by French playwright Molière, the show brings a fresh approach to physical farce to The Festival. To May 18, audiences can discover just how far the truth can be twisted before fraying out of control. The unique story fuses elements of spaghetti western, circus and the predecessor of vaudeville and Seinfeld, seamlessly woven into an uproarious fable of scheming lovers, mistaken identities, and clownish greedy servants. Delicious Lies tells the story of Scapin, an arrogant and pompous servant to the household of Geronte. He believes in only one version of truth – his own – and uses all nature

Buy A Pie - Win A Diamond! Saturday, May 25

rom 10am – 3pm at the Cobble Hill Fairgrounds, Evergreen Independent School will host the 29th annual Children & Apple Pie. This family festival and community celebration is the school’s primary fundraiser,

of trickery to achieve his self-ambitions. In his latest caper, Scapin has promised to help his young charge Léandre and neighbour boy Octave save their new relationships. The role of Scapin is particularly pivotal to the show. A classic theatrical persona in commedia dell’arte, everything from his name (related to the English word “escape”) to his self-interested pursuits guide the overarching theme of the play. The character is a proud schemer, a scoundrel, and a jack-of-all-trades, known to cause confusion of anything he undertakes. He adapts quickly to changing scenarios, often inciting disorder for his own self-preservation. True to this style, Molière’s Scapin is the tie that binds each character to his story of mischief and revenge. Theatregoers who seek a deeper understanding of the show can attend on “Talk-back Wednesday”, when a lively Q&A session with the actors, and artistic team is held to provide insight about the script and production. There is no extra charge to attend either the Wednesday matinee or evening performance. www.chemainusfestivaltheatre.com

with proceeds supporting the specific programming that shape Evergreen students’ education. This fabulous festival features something fun for everyone. The smallest children will enjoy Face Painting, a Bouncy Castle and a Fish Pond, while older kids will be inspired at the Woodworking Table, prove their skills on the Mini Golf Course, or work on their aim at the Angry Birds game. Kids and adults alike look forward to the spectacular Silent Auction, featuring unique and inspired donations from local artists and businesses. Stop by the Concession and fill up on tasty, fresh, organic fare before heading to the Bake Table to satisfy that sweet tooth. The Bake Table features Evergreen’s celebrated handcrafted Apple Pies. These delicious treats are enough to lure a crowd (they usually sell out before noon) but to sweeten the pot; every pie purchased comes with a chance to win a pair of diamond earrings! To keep the festive spirits high, the live entertainment lineup includes (to name a few) Alex’s Evergreen Kid’s, Woodruff Music Studio, Moon Dance Drumming, Bonner Jazz Band, Steps Ahead, One World Youth Dance Theatre, Brentwood College Music Ensembles, and the Hilwi Dancers. Evergreen Independent School has been a fixture in the Cobble Hill area since 1983, providing balanced education where academic excellence

Local Arts

On A Sunday Afternoon $10 Sunday May 5 • 2-5 pm The Wayne Kozak Quartet Sunday May 12• 2-5 pm Big Band sounds of “Jive” Sunday May 19 • 2-5pm Comox’s Indigo Jazz Sunday May 26• 2-5pm Belmont Avenue Trio with special guests

1534 Joan Avenue Crofton and individual development are equally valued, and where the inherent joy of learning is nurtured in a caring and respectful community. Evergreen is accepting applications for September 2013. Children & Apple Pie provides an excellent opportunity to visit with Evergreen teachers at the Information Booth, or take a guided tour of the school (just across the street from the fairgrounds). For more information call 250-743-2433 or e-mail evergreen@evergreenbc.net.

The Emily Carr String Quartet MAY 19

Mila and Cari making music

Presented by Church Mice Productions

2pm - An afternoon concert $15 / family of 3 or more $12

Jazz Vespers MAY 25 4:30 pm in the Sanctuary

Amazing 16 year old Jazz saxophonist Connor Stewart from Nanaimo and his quartet. Admission by donation Sylvan United Church, 985 Shawnigan Mill Bay Rd (Next to Frances Kelsey) Mill Bay. For Info 250-743-4301

The Land of the Faeries Parent and Child Music Class

usical games allow children the fun of playing, while simultaneously developing essential music skills such as rhythm, singing, breath support, pitch, coordination, expression and the relationship to the other and the self. “The first time my husband and I brought our daughter to a Parent and Child Music class we knew we were going to have a unique musical experience. And we did.” shares Paulina Kee, mother of 2 year old Mila. “Cari creates a magical wondrous space out of the bright warm studio where the class takes place. We spend the class singing and dancing together in a circle and learn songs that honour the seasons and ancient traditions. We sing in English, French, German, Swedish, as well as African call and response chants. The music is gorgeous and Cari is so animated and funny--she obviously loves to sing with children.” “ My Parent and Child music class is for families, who wish to foster a nourishing environment of experiencing music together. It is a safe haven for children; where they are able to take in the music, songs, games and exercises directly back into their home life. I want music to be

part of every family life and to occur spontaneously throughout the day; when songs can be sung for transitions, meal times, bed routines, cleaning up and celebrations.” says Cari Burdett, instructor of Parent and Child Music Class offered at the Lila Music Studio in Duncan. “Moms, dads, grandparents and siblings are all welcome. Each family brings a healthy snack which we all bless and share in a circle. The class ends with a puppet show or game, both of which call upon the children’s imagination as they witness the transformation of simple objects” smiles Paulina “A piece of fabric becomes a blanket of snow or blocks of wood become a little village. After the story Cari sings a send off song that names each member of the class. I inevitably leave the class feeling buoyed by the sense of warmth and community. Something sacred has been shared and our souls have been enriched.”

Chemainus Health Food

Morganne’s, uniquely chemainus

Eliza Hemingway Art & Antiques 9756C Willow Street 250 416-0363

Saltspring Soapworks

9747 Willow Street 250 246-2244 Art Gallery, Accessories, Books & Yarn

9738 Willow Street 250 246-9838 Natural Grocery, Vitamins, Hemp Fashions

9748 Willow Street 250 324-2226 Handmade Soaps, Natural Body Care

Etc.

9747 Willow Street 250 324-2227 Beads and Beading Classes

* Utopia Bakery

A-9780 Willow Street 250 246-9992 Artisan Bread and European Pastries

See You Soon!

We Accept Chemainus Dollars

Come to Chemainus; where the people are friendly and the parking is free! Enjoy shopping, excellent eateries, live music, professional theatre and special events.

COME FOR A DAY OR MAKE IT A GETAWAY.

Parent & Child Music Class is offered at the Lila Music Centre Mondays 10:15am - 11:15 or 3pm – 4pm. Cost per family is $17.50 /class Come try your first class for Free! For more information 250 701 0978. www.joythroughmusic.com

Local Arts

Goddess Golf begins May 16th, 2013

Thursdays, 6 – 7pm Drop In - $20, Series of 4 - $60 Goddess Golf will teach the ability to remain grounded in the moment, with absolute confidence, experiencing each shot and enjoying your game. Join like-minded gals for some fun and socializing, while learning how to hit it pure!

For info visit www.jodyjacksongolf.com l 250-532-3399 Cowichan Golf and Country Club I 250 746 5333

WEBSITES, EMAILS AND VERBAL LINT By Rick Dennis

..... With song titles like “Hair In My Eyes Like a Highland Steer” and “Long Gone To Saskatchewan”, Edmontonbased singer/songwriter Corb Lund obviously uses the Prairies as a prime inspiration. But that hasn’t stopped the Cancon cowboy folk hero from landing a deal with red hot U.S. indie New West. Glancing at the New West website I see the label has new releases by Steve Earle and Richard Thompson in addition to Lund’s latest, “Cabin Fever”. It’s the second Lund CD the label has slapped its brand on. (2009’s “Losin’ Lately Gambler” was the first. I have a copy in my own personal collection.) Corb Lund and The Hurtin’ Albertans (love that group name) play Cowichan Theatre May 15. Log onto www.cowichantheatre.bc.ca ... Kaatza Lakeside Players are taking the Coward’s way out with their latest production. However, you can expect a “spirited” performance. Roughly translated (sorry, I’m a glutton for pun-ishment) that means the veteran Cowichan Lake theatre troupe are staging Noel Coward’s classic comedy “Blithe Spirit”, directed (as always) by The Unsinkable Dena McPhee. Tix at Footwear Centre & The Print Spot in Lake Cowichan and Portals at Island Savings Centre in Duncan. For more info log onto www.kaatzalakesideplayers.ca .... Calgary-based franchises may not have an enviable track record in the Valley (remember Joey’s Only? Didn’t think so) but I wish Original Joe’s the best of British (Columbia) luck. The Cowtown-based burger chain is housed in premises formerly occupied by Blockbuster Video in Duncan. .... I don’t know much about art but I like Cherry Point Artists Spring Show & Sale Fri. & Sat. May 3 & 4 at St. Peter’s Anglican Church in Duncan. For more about the group log onto www.cowichanvalleyartscouncil.ca/ cherrypoint

Especially for Female Golfers

ver a decade ago, Jody Jackson started a program called Goddess Golf with a vision of establishing holistic training for female golfers in Victoria. Having a background in coaching, strength and conditioning and yoga teacher training, Goddess Golf became a signature program of J2G that empowered beginner to advanced female golfers. “I am excited to reestablish Goddess Golf in the wonderful Cowichan Valley, with home base being the Cowichan Golf Club. Come out and connect with likeminded gals, for some fun and socializing, while learning how to hit it pure!” Jody is a life-long learner who has dedicated her educational, professional and personal development to understanding the whole player. She has been a professional teacher and coach for the last 22 years, after graduating from the Faculty of Physical Education with Coaching and Strength & Conditioning and the Faculty of Education where she majored in Educational Psychology. In 2000, she became a LPGA Golf Professional and is currently a Class A teaching member and serves as an LPGA National Evaluator.

After a 9-year career teaching at Cordova Bay Golf Club in Victoria, Jody signed on as the Technical Director for the British Columbia Golf Association from 2008-2011, where she worked in Long Term Player Development from grassroots to highperformance. She has led Team BC to several victories, including Canada Summer Games, Western Canada Summer Games and various Junior and Senior Teams at National Championships. Internationally, Jody has coached Team Canada Juniors across the border to the south and at the R & A Junior Open, preceding The Open at St. Andrews, Scotland. Jody has experience with all ages and levels of golfer and today continues to serve as the BC Provincial Coach. Her personal journey with golf started at the age of 11 years old and till today believes that “Golf is like no other game in that it demands the unparalleled union of the whole self.” As a result of her passion for the game and desire to empower others in their pursuit, Jody teaches golf by nurturing the unification of body and mind and enlisting her student’s spirit or drive to reach new heights in their game.

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

C C r B d S s h B t u d i m

W f r n i t g

Flying Daily.

Reel Alternatives presents

Still Monday, May 27 7pm

Cowichan Theatre Tickets $12/ Students $5 250 748 7529 Craig Morrison (James Cromwell), a farmer in rural St. Martins, New Brunswick, is used to doing things for himself. Somewhat cantankerous and stubborn, with the help of his wife, Irene (Geneviève Bujold), he’s managed to keep his farm going using traditional methods despite the domination of industrial agriculture in the marketplace.

it his personal mission to halt construction on the new house, Craig has to fight for his right to build their final home.Based on a true story. Filmed in New Brunswick and Ontario. Director Michael McGowan and many of the cast members are Canadian.

When Irene’s health begins to fail, Craig, a skilled carpenter, realizes he has to build a new home for them to live in, to make it easier for her to get around. But when a government inspector makes

NOW

MONDAY MAY 27

SHOWING Reel Alternatives presents on the

7pm

BIG SCREEN Still

A beautiful rural Canadian love story. Cowichan Theatre Tickets $12, Students $5 rows A-C

All proceeds benefit CV Hospice Services

1877 Herd Road Duncan 250-746-0372 Open 11am - 4:30pm

www.pnwraptors.com 37

West Coast Men’s Support Society Dads Make a Difference Program

n this month dedicated to mothers, we would like to honour Dads that make a difference in the life of a child. Fathers can bring very loving and nurturing energy to their children. On Tuesdays, West Coast Mens Society hosts a group called Dads Make a Difference. It is for all dads that need support for any reason at all. Our group consists of stay-athome fathers, primary care dads who prepare the meals, do the shopping, change the diapers, do the laundry, help with homework, etc.. Men who are dealing with custody issues and men who have been alienated from their children for many years. There are certainly legitimate reasons as to why women keep their children away from men. However, there are also many situations where women use the children as leverage against men. Many of these men are very despondent to this day because of their disconnect with their children.

Many men can have very good relations with their children even though their relationship with their spouse had disintegrated. It is our hope that men who are deserving of a relationship with their children will reconnect. At our group men are welcome to share their stories and realize they are not alone and that there are other men like them, dealing with similar issues. To all moms, Happy Mother’s Day! especially to all the single moms and their strength in raising their children alone.

W t w

Dads Make a Difference – Tuesdays, 6 - 8pm: 80 Station St. Ste 213, Duncan.call 250-5972801 or email: info@ westcoastmen.org for more information. Grant M. Waldman, Executive Director West Coast Men’s Support Society

3rd

Annual

Sylvan United

SpringFLING Weaving, knitting, spinning and dyeing classes for all ages Group workshops available

Leola’s Studio 250-597-0820 Whippletree Junction

May 25 9am-1pm

Fundraiser

Plants, books, clothing, good stuff, bake sale, food concession and more!

985 Shawnigan Mill Bay Rd Mill Bay next to Frances Kelsey

Family Pages

New baby eagles at The Raptors centre. Image Robyn Radcliffe

Feathered Family Disputes

ost of us parents know that kids equal hard work! We are all too familiar with the sleepless nights, constant worrying, parental guilt, and

trying to balance life with demanding children. What we don’t always notice is that there is always someone else struggling too. In fact, even

raptors battle with the pressures of parenting! This is the story of our Bald Eagle pair, Hank and Shaya, last spring. After a long courtship and a decent nest, Shaya laid two beautiful eggs in April. In May two fuzzy chicks hatched – which is where the story goes astray. Instead of focusing on incubating the little chicks, Shaya turned her attention to being mean to dad. She spent so much time chasing Hank around their aviary, that we had to rescue the chicks and Hank. We tried several times to put the chicks back in with their mum, but she was not interested. Once they were capable of self-regulating their body temperatures, we tried putting them in with their dad, and much to our delight, he accepted. So for the rest of their (relatively short) development

into full-grown raptors, they grew up watching Hank – learning they were Bald Eagles rather than humans. So while the story was not a fairy tale ending with the whole family together, it was an interested experience for us to gain insight into raptor relationships. It’s not always easy for them, either! The chicks - Hercules, the male, has been soaring the skies for months, and his sister will shortly join him on our flying team. We are thrilled to have these wonderful additions to the centre, they turned out perfectly.

Robyn Radcliffe is a falconer at the PN Raptor Centre who cares for over 75 birds daily. pnwraptors.com

Helping Men, Families and Community to create Full, Healthier Lives!

www.westcoastmen.org 213-80 Station St, Duncan 250 597-2801

G Family Pages

Enterprising

Bike To Work Week

Women

Brought to you by Oilcheck where every Wednesday is Ladies Day.Be surprised!

“My lifelong love of animals narrowed to dogs twenty years ago with a sick little rescue named Sparky. He was constantly itchy and oily and stinky. Some well meaning friends recommended ending his suffering, but I started to do research on his condition and I haven’t stopped learning since.” shares Deb Wood, co owner of Lucky Dog U Bath. Deb is not just an animal lover but a certified Carnivore Nutrition Coach who is also completing her Animal Naturopathic Practitioners certificate. “ Having been involved with pets professionally for many years, she noticed that Duncan was in need of a doggy u-bath. “U-baths are common in other towns and cities and with the salmon run in the fall, I was sure to do well with dogs that roll in the dead fish!” laughs Deb. With her business partner Cassandra Barnard, Deb opened the doors of her convenient downtown pet bath this year. Pet owners - This is the place to be! Lucky Dog has three unique bathtubs at waist height with constant warm water. They supply everything you need to wash your own dog and if it is easier, they do offer special services to wash visiting dogs. The ladies also help clip nails, clean ears and assist in coaxing your doggy friends up the steps into the tub! “My first “we-bath” had me nervous. I am not a groomer, but I was sure I could wash a new dog! He was a very fluffy midsized dog that left behind so much shed fur that the tub looked like he had exploded! We put the picture on our Facebook page. (The dog looked fantastic!) The company also offers a drop-in day care is open seven days a week so as the warm weather starts, you can safely bring your dog into town and leave him Lucky Dog U Bath with us while you shop and then visit the beautiful parks and trails B-1059 Canada Ave Downtown Duncan together afterwards. 250 597-7364 luckydogubath@yahoo.ca “Now who’s the Lucky Dog?”

Join the Club!

Visit us 4 times & your 5th Oil Change is FREE! 250 748-1215 www.myoilcheck.ca

2752 Beverly Street Duncan

May 27 - June 2

ould you bike 40 km one way to get to work? Could you ride home after a 12 hour night shift? That’s exactly what some of the previous Cowichan participants in the annual Bike to Work week have done. Last year, nearly 20,000 Bike to Work week riders from across BC biked more than 900,000 km. Locally, the event has run since 2008 and organizers hope to see the number of riders continue to rise. Participants can join as individuals or are encouraged to form a team at their workplace. Best of all, every rider will have the chance to win prizes including $250 gift certificates from each of Duncan’s three cycle shops. One of the themes for this year’s event will be rider safety, as Cowichan Bike to Work week joins forces with

the RCMP and ICBC to raise awareness with both cyclists and motorists. For those who are intimidated, consider one of last year’s participants. Undeterred by not having ridden in 20 years, she purchased a bike at a garage sale the weekend before the event and rode to work four out of the five days. As event organizer Alex Haddad asks, “What’s holding you back?” Submitted by Kathleen Sheppard

Community4Climate

Would you like to know how to create a more sustainable life and reduce your ecological footprint while having a good time with your friends and neighbours? We can help! North Cowichan Council has adopted a Climate Action and Energy Plan and its Climate Change Advisory Committee is working on a series of public events to share the findings, the plan and to engage public support in meaningful behaviour change. To get things started, Council has established a Climate Action and Energy Reserve Fund for municipal projects that will reduce annual energy costs currently estimated at $1.7 million. “It is expected that selected projects will have a payback time of five to seven years,” said Mayor Lefebure, “but the long-term benefits to our residents, our communities and our planet are timeless.” Close to 80% of greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions in North Cowichan come from private homes and vehicles. “The Climate Action and Energy Plan (CAEP) provides information on how simple changes can not only save our residents money, but also reduce their carbon footprint,” said North Cowichan Climate Change Advisory Committee Chair, Councillor Kate Marsh. She added, “Public support is critical for us to meet our target to reduce emissions 33% by 2025.”Learn ways to decrease energy use and emissions, encourage a local green economy and support a highquality, sustainable, healthy, safe lifestyle in the valley. Watch for our first Community4Climate event coming next month! And look for us on Facebook.Want to learn more? Contact: kate.marsh@northcowichan.ca

Recreation and Healthy Living

BUCKLE UP YOUR BRAIN

ere’s a smart law. Wearing a helmet is mandatory while riding a bicycle in British Columbia. In 1996, BC became the first province or state in North America to make the wearing of certified helmets mandatory for all riders. A helmet will protect your noggin from a world of grief which is good because bicyclists engage in dangerous activities. According to Police reports, head trauma is one of the most commonly reported cyclist injuries and 75% of all cyclist fatalities involved head trauma. In terms of safety, there’s not much of a difference between helmets. That’s because as of about 5 years ago, all helmets manufactured in or imported into Canada were required to meet minimum CSA (Canadian Standards Association) standards. The standards are written, not to ensure compliance in terms of wearing helmets, but to guarantee

the integrity of the helmets that are actually sold and worn. Additionally, CSA recognized that a child’s tolerance to a head impact is different from adults so Canada has separate (more stringent) helmet performance criteria for children five years and under. Helmets are still made out of foam, but now, rather than the foam being taped to the protective shell the foam is fused. If you have an old taped foam shell kicking, replace it. If your helmet is over 5 years old, replace it. The foam deteriorates over time and will no longer protect your head. If your helmet has protected your head in even one crash, replace it. The integrity of the helmet has been compromised and will no longer protect your head. An excellent helmet will cost about $50.00. Costs increase after that due to lighter weight, the number of air vents, more comfortable retention systems, and snazzy styles and designs. Public support for wear helmets is increasing but if we want to

reduce head trauma in ourselves and our children we must set an example, comply with the law and wear helmets while cycling and ensure our children do the same.

Sandra Beggs owns and operates Cycle Therapy in Duncan. wwwcycletherapy.ca

SALE ON THE IN-STORE AND DOMANE TREK MADONE NTINUES ROAD BIKES CO AY! M RU ALL TH COMING EVENTS MAPLE BAY MASTERS ROAD RACE MAY 12TH BIKE TO WORK WEEK MAY 27- JUNE 2

We need room for more! Prices slashed on most instore items! Crazy INSANELY low prices in the tent!

Get ready for the HUGE Cycle Therapy blow out PARKING LOT SALE - JUNE 3RD 5pm-9pm Recreation and Healthy Living

Starting Broiler Chicks – A Check List for the First Week

Return to a clean home and workplace.

o your broiler chicks are ordered and are coming next week. Are you ready? Here is a check list to help you prepare.

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

Home Cleaning Gift Certiﬁcates available for Family & Friends!

• Housing - The house needs to be clean, warm, dry, free from drafts or pests, and large enough to provide 2 square-feet of space per market-ready bird. In a large house you may want to set up brooding areas. A brooding area for 50 chicks can be made from 20 feet of 18-inch high cardboard placed in a circle. Heat the area 24 to 36 hours prior to chick arrival to warm the bedding. Hang a 250-watt red brooder lamp 18 inches above the floor and place a gallon waterer, two 24-inch feeders, and a thermometer in the brooding area. When the chicks reach two weeks of age, remove the cardboard barrier. • Litter - Cover the floor with 3 - 4 inches of dry wood shavings. Avoid sawdust as chicks may eat it in place of the feed, resulting in impacted crops. • Light – The house should be light enough for you to comfortably read your newspaper. Keep the light on for the first few days so the chicks can find feed and water. You can then give them 5 – 6 hours of dark. • Temperature – Floor temperature should be 32oC when the chicks arrive. Chick behavior will indicate if the temperature is correct. If chicks are noisy and huddled under the heat source they are not warm enough. If they are crowding the walls they are too warm. • Air – Keep the air fresh but avoid strong drafts on the chicks. • Water – Chicks need access to clean water as soon as they arrive. Add some marbles to the waterers to attract the chicks and to prevent them from getting too wet. If you have nipple waterers, reduce the pressure for the first week so a droplet forms on the nipple. • Feed - Provide a chick-starter crumble feed in the feeders and on cardboard or paper placed in the brooding area. Use feed medicated for the prevention of coccidiosis, unless the chicks were vaccinated at the hatchery against it. Vaccinated chicks should receive nonmedicated feed. Submitted By Everett Dixon

Custom Carpentry by Doug Marsh Journeyman, earth friendly carpenter available. Specializing in creative living space renos for your home, garden, farm, business or neighbourhood. Builds gates, fences, sheds, garden beds, tables, shelving, arbours, pergolas, chicken coops, greenhouses. Free consultations. Duncan: 250-709-9683 Chemainus: 250-246-5081

Our Community

a u L f r m t h A a o f b i i I a p o d t

I n a f p e e h

Your One Stop Source for Computer Help in the Cowichan Valley Computer Consulting | Software Sales Computer Repair and Maintenance Computer Training

Phone: 250-929-1199 E-mail: ian@sentinelridgeconsulting.com Web: www.sentinelridgeconsulting.com

Fences Make Good Neighbours

used to be a firm advocate of fence removal and back yard amalgamation projects that create urban farms and shared spaces. Lately I’ve been asked to build fences and gates to replace old rotten ones and I am finding myself enjoying it. It’s satisfying to clean up and refurbish people’s homes at the front gate level. An arbour or trellis can be an attractive portal into the privacy of someone’s front garden. Even fences can make decorative backdrops to landscape plantings if they are even slightly imaginative. So many fences that I have seen look similar and serve a similar purpose; separation people and keeping a grid pattern over the faces. How did such a design become so popular? So as to become almost universal? I still really love the way so many neighbourhoods in other towns and cities have taken down the fences and have built private parks and gardens to share with each other. Some have even reestablished old water courses and have built bike paths and bridges

through what once was a grid of fences and small private yards. Here in Cowichan we are a bit behind in our thinking but I’m beginning to see a trend towards putting gates in the fences here and there at least. A simple walking path and gate between neighbours seems natural to me but so far not entirely normal. I feel better each time I see another connection made between people. A gate can be a powerful symbol of opening up to others, allowing the passage of energy across barriers that fences typically create. I expect that one day most fences will be repurposed to support and trellis fruit bearing plants and to separate dogs. Gates will allow free access for people to share more of their lives with each other. If you’d like to explore the potential of your yard or garden with a creative professional, give me a call at 250 246 5081. Imagine the possibilities! Submitted by Doug Marsh

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 *New Location #13 250 743-8122 Reiki, Foot Detox, Infrared, Acupuncture, Craniosacral

Large or small we feed them all. Hours of operation Sun 10 - 4pm Mon - Sat 8:30am - 6pm

2800 Roberts Rd. Duncan (250) 746-5101, Fax (250) 597-0312 Our Community

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

100% Fresh

100% Locally Owned and Operated

Chocolate and Roses Facial A nurturing and hydrating treatment

SOU L ESCAPE

ESTHETICS Est. Since 2006

Happy Mother’s Day! THE ORIGINAL HUNGARIAN ORGANIC SKINCARE LINE IN NORTH AMERICA

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

Hypnotherapy is the way to use your subconscious mind to uncover and change patterns and habits that no longer serve.

Effective for: · Fears & Phobias · Stress Management ·Weight Release ·Smoking Cessation ·Pain Control ·Achieving Goals Lori Austein Clinical Hypnotherapist 250-597-7459 • laustein@shaw.ca

A Day With the Buddha’s presented by

the Nichiren Buddhist Society Saturday, May 18 www.VIRetreats.com for registration 250 710 7594

Who was the Medicine King, who was the first historical Buddha, who was the Goddess of Compassion, the Queen of Liberation, who was Maitreya, Maunjushri, Avola, and Taho Buddha. Who was Nichiren, Tien Tai Chi‚I and Dengyo? A fascinating day of energy, ancient folk lore, story telling and historical facts will share in expanding our knowledge about karma and the Buddha’s wisdom teachings? On Saturday 18th of May, the Nichiren Buddhist Society is “A Day With the Buddha’s”. This day of knowledge and positive energy is open to everyone. It will be a day deep in the forest that will be of interest to those seeking insight and awareness of the Buddhist principles that lead to happiness, wisdom and enlightenment.

One universal characteristic of human life is its uncertainty. The most promising career can fail unexpectedly, today‚s commitment to love another forever often ends much sooner than that. Good health, can turn to sickness, wealth may come and go; in short the human condition is one of limitations and temporary existence. The purpose of retreating in the spiritual sense is to transcend the uncertainty of our human nature in realizing a more eternal principle. From the 1950’s onward the Buddhist philosophy has grown in our Western world. This philosophy underlies one of the oldest spiritual practices on earth, the faith of compassion and peaceful means. A Day With the Buddha’s right here in our Cowichan Valley, may be a day that changes your life. The fee for this day retreat is by donation. For more information visit www.VIRetreats.com or call 250. 710. 7594 for registration. Submitted by Henry Landry, Author, Teacher, Messenger

Thursday Meditation VIU Cowichan Campus

7 Retreats for Learning and Realization

“A good friend is often the manner whereby one is led to realize their Buddha-nature and ﬁnd enlightenment”

Next Retreat: A Day With the Buddha’s Saturday 18th MAY 2013 Schedule outline, register onLine

Nichiren Buddha Society & Peace Center Phone: 250. 710. 7594

Check out all the Retreats: www.VIRetreats.com

Body, Mind and Spirit

[ C

Restore Your Health with

Traditional Chinese Medicine Acupuncture & Diet Therapy

Dr. Fei Yang 250-733-2917

INTEGRATED COMMUNITY HEALTH

Community Acupuncture - extending the benefits to the whole community.

cupuncture is an ancient form of Chinese Medicine, with origins dating as far back as 700BC[1]. While North America has adopted this practice, we may have overlooked the value of its use in a community setting. Community Acupuncture is aligned to its traditional roots in China where a number of patients come together and receive treatment in a group setting, rather than one-on-one. Not only does this make the treatments more affordable—and thereby accessible to a wider range of the population—the shared supportive nature of a group enhances the healing actions of the treatments. It’s been shown to be particularly effective for behavioural health, including addictions, mental health and emotional trauma. Which has led to the development of specific auricularpoint protocols by National Acupuncture Detoxification Association, NADA. The 5-point ear-acupuncture protocol, known as NADA, is well recognized as being helpful in a variety of circumstances such as cravings, anxiety, trauma, addictions and sleep disturbances.

Lindsay J. Campa, BA

Dr. Daisey Kent MSc ND

Certified Massage, Bodywork & Yoga Practitioner (250) 466-4607

Naturopathic Doctor (250)510-1910

Tobi Jane Panter AHG, R.Ac., RHN

How does it work? Five fine, sterile, single-use ‘needlettes’ (they really are tiny needles) are inserted in the outer part of the ear (the auricle) while the client sits comfortably. At Silverfern, we also select a couple of additional points on the limbs to support the specific concerns of each person. People are invited to relax together for 30 to 45 minutes in a quiet, pleasant setting as the treatment takes hold. This treatment gentlyyet-notably regulates the nervous system to support your shift to better health. As a naturopathic doctor and an acupuncturist, we are both registered members of our respective colleges. We offer this community service on a sliding scale basis ($15-45). We are both honoured and delighted to support you in your quest for better health. Come and try it out at the new Silverfern Clinic! Silvernfern Health Clinic offers Community Acupuncture on Mondays from 6pm - 8:0pm. Please contact them at 250 510 1910 for more information.

Acupuncturist, Nutritionist, Herbalist (250)715-4030

160 Jubilee St Duncan

•

silverfernhealth.net

canadafashionswap.ca

invitation to join

fashion swap website

buy, sell or trade sign up, list items, post photos, chat, barter, swap, sell fashion

info@canadafashionswap.ca Remember Your Mother! Gift Certiﬁcates available for all our Zen services. • Full Hair and Esthetics Services • Joico hair color and products • Natural Sugaring Hair Removal • Onsite Gel Nail Artist

Dr. Daisey Kent MSc ND www.daiseykentnd.com Tobi Jane Panter, AHG, R.Ac., RHN www.BChummingbirdhealing.com Both work out of the Silverfern Health Clinic in Duncan.

[1] Maciocia, G. (1989). The foundations of Chinese medicine: A comprehensive text for acupuncturists and herbalists. Edinburgh: Churchill Livingstone.

Body, Mind and Spirit

May Community Farm Store Pages

When you think about it, if we are healthy, we are happy.

hen you think about it, if we are healthy, we are happy. ‘Qi’ means energy and ‘gong’ means work, so we are ‘working’ to develop our health, which can be very rewarding as we find ourselves getting healthier and happier over the years. Since 1995, Lee Masters has been able to add to the richness of this wonderful Cowichan Valley by hosting seminars taught by Master Michael Tse or his wife Jessica Tse of the Tse Qigong Centre based in England. The seminars this year are all very different from each other but still all relating to very good health. We need to approach the cultivation of our health in different ways, just like we do in the garden -- preparing and nourishing

the soil, planting, weeding, pruning, watering. These seminars range from the very strong (yang) Hard Qigong, to the less yang (and very fun!) 13 Grab Stick to the more gentle (yin) Joint Opening and Closing Gong to the very internal Peaceful Calm Meditation. Listening to our bodies and experience tell us what is needed. Yet these methods are not in conflict with each other but in harmony, sharing the same principles of relaxation and

Health and Wellbeing

posture to create good health. “I’ve been studying Wild Goose Qigong and Chun Yuen Quan for six years with my Sifu Lee Masters. When I started, my health was poor as I’d been living for years with chronic pain in my feet. Little by little with regular practice and weekly classes, I have regained my health. It’s been six years since I started and now my feet are pain free and I have a skill and knowledge with which I maintain, and develop my health more every year. Come try a class. Qigong helps you take charge of your health. Brian Edgar

T h b t w a m s C s h u p

1 Y i k s c c w J

You are all are welcome to come and learn. For more description about these styles of Qigong, please visit the website at www.WildGooseQigongCentre.com. Qigong Seminar Descriptions The Introduction to Hard Qigong is a high level Qigong skill that uses special breathing techniques and movements to create tremendous kidney energy, washing and renewing bone marrow and creating warmth in the bones, making the circulation strong and smooth. Although traditionally used by Chinese martial artists to make the body strong and avoid injury, this form also has powerful healing potential, making us super healthy with the correct practice. 13 Grab Stick is Northern Shaolin Chun Yuen Quan martial arts movement that is really fun to practise and also helps to keep our tendons, arm and finger joints supple and improves our circulation and co-ordination. We use a short stick that could be substituted by an umbrella or walking stick. Joint Opening and Closing Gong is

Grab Stick gentle movement which helps us to loosen tendons in the knees, hips and shoulders, helping to heal tendon problems. It is also very good for the back and back problems. This form brings up a lot of heat in the body as it opens acupuncture points and channels. After practising Joint Opening Gong, our whole body will feel lighter, warmer and stronger. This seminar also includes Peaceful Calm Meditation. To further develop our spiritual potential and to store the energy we have generated, we always meditate at the end of our practice. In this seminar, we will practise certain hand gestures which direct our Qi and open our channels even more.

Health and Wellbeing

Please note: No Classes April 29 - thru to May 16th.

Provocative Conversation

Shawnigan Lake Adventure

he popular fundraiser for Cowichan Family Caregivers Support Society has grown from the former Shawnigan Lake Walk into an Adventure! Now on Sunday, June 2nd you can walk it, bike it, kayak it or go geocaching!

Are you longing for a provocative conversation? In business, the strongest leaders are those who can foster meaningful relationships with their team, colleagues and associates, facilitating engaging dialogue. A leader listen’s, is curious, and asks questions to clarify and connect with what is cared about together. As human beings, we desire connection. This builds rapport and trust, which are critical to any relationship. Having quality conversation is particularly important when there is change, such as starting a new project, change in the market looking for innovative ideas, or your business has plateaued and you are taking steps to bring it to the next level. What are the ways in which you communicate that builds strong connections? Are you leveraging the resources and expertise around you so you can make the impact you want to make in business? What is the power and value of your team? What is the next conversational move that will help? Imagine, what results could be created if you had a provocative conversation?

For those who walk it, there will be five routes to choose from. Cycling enthusiasts can opt for a longer or shorter route almost exclusively on the Trans Canada Trail (TCT). A guided 12k route on the waters of beautiful Shawnigan Lake is available for kayakers, while the geocaching fun will happen along a portion of the TCT. Meanwhile, back at the Shawnigan Lake Community Centre, there will be delicious vegetarian food specially prepared by local eateries and relaxing foot messages and energy treatments waiting for you to enjoy after you’ve completed your activity. Participants and everyone in the community can join in the excitement of the new artisans’

market and live entertainment. There will also be raffle tickets for sale for a three-night get-away at Long Beach Lodge Resort in Tofino! To register visit www.ShawniganLakeAdventure. com All proceeds will support families right here in the Cowichan Region who are struggling to cope with illness or disability. So you can help others while having fun at the Shawnigan Lake Adventure!

Discover a real-world treasure hunt in geocaching. Using GPS-enabled devices, participants navigate to a set of coordinates and then attempt to find the geocache, or container, hidden at that location. Geocaching is popular all around the world. You will have the opportunity to try it yourself at the Shawnigan Lake Adventure. To introduce you to the sport, we’ll have an information session led by local geocachers before you try your luck geocaching along the route. See you there!

Tania Walter Gardiner Live Your Definition of Success

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

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

Aries (March 21-April 19) This month activates financial matters, cash flow and your possessions. This month you will try to organize, maintain and repair things to establish better control over your life through what you own. On top of this, you will have the power to attract money to you. (Yes!) This means you will buy beautiful treasures, perhaps something you want to show off. Your focus on money and possessions might be so strong that you will argue with others but you will defend your values. Taurus (April 20-May 20) It’s your turn to energize and recharge your batteries for the rest of the year. You attract people and fortunate circumstances. Venus paves the way for friendships and warm partnerships. Since Venus is all about fun and pleasure, you’ll want to get away on a vacation and party! This is the time to look in the mirror and assess your image. What can you do to look better? You will go after what you want. Good time for physical exercise. (“Hut two, three, four!”) Gemini (May 21-June 20) Two different influences are at play this month. The Sun, Venus and Mars are hiding in your chart, which makes you want to be low-key and work behind the scenes or work alone. You’re hatching secret plans. Indeed, the coming month is an excellent time to strategize what you want your new year (birthday to birthday) to be. Why not write down some goals? Jupiter boosts your confidence and draws people and resources to you plus

deepens the spiritual dimension of your life. Cancer (June 21-July 22) This month is about groups and friends. Accept invitations, join clubs and schmooze with everyone. Study your friends because they are a reflection of who you are. Don’t be afraid to be yourself. Work with others because team efforts will pay off. Competition with someone is likely (could be sports competitions). Meanwhile, a friend might become a lover. Talk about your future goals to others because they can help you. Jupiter will soon enter your sign heralding a fantastic year ahead! Leo (July 23-Aug. 22) A bundle of planets is at the top of your chart acting like a spotlight on you. People notice you! Furthermore, this lighting is flattering, so everyone thinks you’re the cat’s meow. Mars arouses your ambition making you want to achieve; it also makes you independent! You’re not a team player now, you want to be your own boss and you want credit for what you do. Meanwhile, fair Venus might attract someone older or richer to you in a romantic sense. “Lighting is everything.” Virgo (Aug. 23-Sept. 22) You’re attracted to the arts and beautiful places this month. Satisfy your interest in beauty by visiting beautiful parks. Drive or hike through pristine nature. Visit museums, art galleries and gorgeous architectural buildings. Study the handicrafts and artwork of other cultures. You might even strike up a romance with someone who is “different.” You have lots of energy to learn new things and meet people from other cultures. You want to grab life by the throat because you don’t want anything to pass you by. Travel will delight you. “All aboard!”

Libra (Sept. 23-Oct. 22) The Sun, Venus and Mars now heighten your interest in shared property, inheritances and anything you own jointly with others, which is why you’ll focus on taxes and debt. You want to reduce debt, but you might dispute the ownership of something or the boundaries of shared property. Others might be generous to you. For sure, your sex drive is pumped! Sexual relationships that are intense will attract you. Meanwhile, your desire to travel is still there and you continue to have opportunities to explore in publishing, the media, medicine and the law. Scorpio (Oct. 23-Nov. 21) Life is going to be getting better when Jupiter enters Cancer (your fellow water sign) at the end of June to stay for a year. This is highly fortunate for you. Meanwhile, you’re dealing with three planets opposing your sign: the Sun, Venus and Mars drawing your focus on partnerships and close friendships. The Sun and Venus will warm these friendships and even attract new ones, but Mars creates problems, disputes and competition. Oh well. Be honest with friends. Lay your cards on the table. You have a strong year ahead. Sagittarius (Nov. 22-Dec. 21) After enjoying a playful vacation, you’re ready to get better organized. It’s time. In fact, you’re on such a kick, you want to turn over a new leaf to organize your home and personal life as well as your job and you’re your health! This is why you’re jogging, biking, hiking and pumping iron. Romance with a co-worker plus disputes are likely. Something is almost completed and you feel impatient to see it done. You take great pride in whatever you accomplish now, and you want the credit!

May

Capricorn (Dec. 22Jan. 19) A delightful month ahead promises a chance to get out and have a good time. You want the freedom to express yourself and do your own thing. You feel lighter and more playful. In fact, many will be involved with children. Grab every chance to enjoy the arts or express your own creative talents. One reason you’re happy is romantic relationships are favoured. Your sex drive is strong. You’re relaxed and feel no need to pretend to be what you are not. Sports (especially competitive) will amuse you. You want to kick up your heels, flirt and have fun! Aquarius (Jan. 20-Feb. 18) Home, family, and real-estate matters are your focus now. Some will cocoon at home, others will be redecorate or renovate. Visiting guests might also be why there’s increased activity and chaos at home. Family squabbles might break out. Yet, ironically, good feelings within the family abound as well. Relations with parents will be challenging. (That frustrating family roller coaster.) Ah yes, your hard drive is full and your server is slow but real-estate opportunities look good. Pisces (Feb. 19-March 20) All this hustle and bustle has arrived because the pace of your days is accelerating with short trips, To Do lists, increased reading and writing and interaction with siblings. You’re singing “On the Road Again.” You’re talking to everyone because you need to communicate. Expect to notice the beauty is in your daily surroundings plus love and affection. (This is all revealing, like a little epiphany about your everyday world.) It makes you want to share your views with others.

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Dirt Over Desks

s your child anxious or unfocussed at school? If you suspect her school performance is below what she’s capable of, you might do better to look for a school that gets her outside than one that limits education to academic cramming at a desk. A study of 120 participants of all ages by the University of Kansas found creativity went up nearly 50% after three days of backwoods hiking, and a Danish study found that 58% of children from outdoor kindergartens invented new games, while only 16% of children from indoor kindergartens did. Outdoors, students find relief from stresses that lead to decreased cognitive function; stresses like multi-tasking (such as juggling several classes per day or switching between electronic and face time), the toxic stress of artificial lighting and the social stresses of high school all keep students in “threat response” mode throughout the school day. These stresses decrease the ability to problem solve significantly. In fact, there are times when it’s appropriate to choose dirt over desks—literally: a couple of studies show exposure to mycrobacterium vaccae—a bacteria found in soil—reduces anxiety and

Cowichan Community

Local Kids raise funds to HELP get kids out of slums depression. A researcher stated, “It is interesting to speculate that creating learning environments in schools that include time in the outdoors where M. vaccae is present may decrease anxiety and improve the ability to learn new tasks.” Schools that consider nature a critical educational partner give students the best environment to develop focused, creative thinking that can formulate original solutions to problems from self-management to climate crisis and social inequity. This May, students at Island Oak High School are taking on a 7-day West Coast Trail Challenge to raise funds to get kids from the slums of Mumbai, India, out of the city on field trips. Sponsor them at islandoak.org/hike.

Vivi de Graff is the Communications Coordinator at Island Oak High School and the parent of children with blended racial heritage.

W c o u h s o e h b C g c

T V D g C s t c m s t i

T n o W o a

d d n

ccess to information is a basic foundation of democracy. Canada’s Charter of Rights and Freedoms also gives us “freedom of thought, belief, opinion and expression, including freedom of the press and other media of communication.” We must protect these rights. As we alter the chemical, physical and biological properties of the biosphere, we face an increasingly uncertain future, and the best information we have to guide us comes from science. That scientists – and even librarians – are speaking out against what appear to be increasing efforts to suppress information shows we have cause for concern. The situation has become so alarming that Canada’s Information Commissioner is investigating seven government departments in response to a complaint that they’re “muzzling” scientists. The submission from the University of Victoria’s Environmental Law Centre and Democracy Watch alleges that “the federal government is preventing the media and the Canadian public from speaking to government scientists for news stories – especially when the scientists’ research or point of view runs counter to current Government policies on matters such as environmental protection, oil sands development, and climate change” and that this “impoverishes the public debate on issues of significant national concern.” The complaint and investigation follow numerous similar charges from scientists and organizations such as the Canadian Science Writers’ Association and the World Federation of Science Journalists, and publications such as the science journal Nature. Hundreds of

scientists marched on Parliament Hill last July to mark “the death of evidence”.

Image Kent Kallberg

The list of actions prompting these grievances is long. It includes shutting the worldrenowned Experimental Lakes Area, axing the National Round Table on the Environment and the Economy, eliminating funding for the Canadian Foundation for Climate and Atmospheric Sciences and prohibiting federal scientists from speaking about research on subjects ranging from ozone to climate change to salmon. All of this has been taking place as the federal government guts environmental laws and cuts funding for environmental departments through its omnibus budget bills. It has justified those massive environmental policy changes in part by saying the review process was slow and inefficient, but research by scientists at the University of Toronto, published in the Canadian Journal of Fisheries and Aquatic Sciences, “found no evidence that regulatory review in Canada was inefficient, even when regulators had an ongoing load of over 600 projects for review at any given time.” The government appears determined to challenge any information, person or organization that could stand in the way of its plans for rapid tar sands expansion and transport and sale of raw resources as quickly as possible to any country with money. The results have been astounding. An Environment Canada document leaked to the Climate Action Network states, “Media coverage of climate change science, our most high-profile issue, has been reduced by over 80 per cent.” In the environmental movement, we’ve become accustomed to attacks and attempts by government and its proxies to silence us. We’ve been called everything from “radicals” to “un-Canadian” to “money-launderers”. Federal Treasury Board President Tony Clement even blamed the David Suzuki Foundation and me for opposition to the proposed TransCanada west-to-east pipeline, a project we have yet to say a word

Guest Writer

Muzzling Scientists is An Assault on Democracy about! Some of the ongoing media slurs have been even sillier. Are they that threatened by credible scientific research that might stand in the way of their current liquidation policies? Canada is a large country with the longest coastline in the world, and is particularly sensitive to climate fluctuations, especially in economic sectors like agriculture, fisheries, forestry and tourism. We aspire to be an “energy superpower”. Surely, understanding the effects of climate change should be at the top of our agenda. In a truly open and democratic society, ideas, policies and legislation are exposed to scrutiny, debate and criticism. Information is shared freely. Governments support research that makes the country stronger by ensuring its policies are in the best interests of the people. A government that values its citizens more than its industrial backers does not fear information and opposition. Countries where governments hold a tight rein on information, shut down or stifle research that runs counter to their priorities, and demonize and attack opponents are never good places to live. We have to make sure Canada doesn’t become one. Written with contributions from David Suzuki Foundation Communications Manager Ian Hanington. Learn more at www.davidsuzuki.org.

Valley Voice Magazine readers directory a great way to discover local services and businesses. 2 sizes of ad space are available to suit every business message and budget. Affordable, stylish and straight to the point. Contact Adrienne Richards for more info 250 510 6596 or by e-mail at adrienne@cowichanvalleyvoice.com Deadline May 12 for June 2013 Issue 55.