Valley Voice May Issue 66

owichan

2014 MAY ISSUE 66

COWICHAN VALLEY EVENTS I FOOD I ARTS I GARDENS I COMMUNITY

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May Events 1

-4 44TH ANNUAL COWICHAN VALLEY FINE ARTS SHOW 129 pieces of original artwork 2687 James St Duncan $5 TOWER OF SONG:TRIBUTES TO LEONARD COHEN folk Travelodge Silverbridge 140 Trans Canada Hwy Duncan 8pm $20 INTRODUCTION TO BUDDHIST MEDITATION Matraea Centre 10:30-12pm LADYSMITH THEATRE THE MAN OF LA MANCHA May 1-4 www.ladysmiththeatre.com

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TIM WILLIAMS IN CONCERT blues The Chapel at Providence Farm 7pm $20

KIDS LEARN TO FISH at Chemainus Lake Park catch fish fun and educational ages 3-16 10am-2pm Free COWICHAN VALLEY GARDEN FAIR AND PLANT SALE, 10am - 2pm Cowichan Exibition Grounds Special gifts for the first 100 customers www.cowichanvalleygardenfair.com Free OUR ECOVILLAGE PUBLIC TOUR 9:45am12pm $15 donation 1565 Baldy Mountain Rd Shawnigan Lake 250-743-3067 LAKE COWICHAN SPRING COMMUNITY BAZAAR Cowichan lake curling rink 311 South Shore Rd Lake Cowichan 10am 2pm

DOUBLE WEAVE FOR WEAVERS Leola’s Studio Whipple Tree Junction 11am-3pm $50 250-597-0820

VALLEY GIRLS ARTS AND CRAFTS COLLECTIVE 9am-3pm The Green Door garden, 126 Ingram St Downtown Duncan

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SENIOR MENS CIRCLE West Coast Men’s Support Society Gather and Connect 5755 Allenby Rd 10:30am-11:30am

COWICHAN FOLK GUILD COFFEE HOUSE THE AARON MURRAY PROJECT Celtic/folk Duncan United Church 246 Ingram St 7pm $10

5/12/19/26 COMMUNITY YOGA CLASS w/ Brian Kroeker Mondays 5:30-6:45 CGC 360 Duncan St By Donation

COMMUNITY ACCUPUNCTURE Frauke McCashin R.Ac. 10am-4pm Youth Pixie Hall Cobble Hill 250-710-3581 Sliding Scale

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THE WIZARD OF OZ Kaatza Lakeside Players Tuesday-Sunday Lake Cowichan Centennial Hall 250-932-6999

POLLINATOR CONSERVATION WORKSHOP 9:30am-4pm Cowichan Ag Society Hall $20 Members / $40 Non info@cowichanlandtrust.ca

6-24 YOUTH ARTWORKS 6TH ANNUAL YOUTH ART SHOW U Fix-t Bikeworks 51 Trunk Rd. (at Duncan St) 250-746-5512

BIRDS OF COWICHAN w/Eric Marshal 2pm-3pm Cowichan Regional Library info@ cowichanandtrust.ca Free

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MY FAVOURITE VEGGIES workshop with Joy Story 6:30-8:30pm growfood@shaw.ca

MEET YOUNG ADULT AUTHOR RICHARD SCARSBROOK 1:30-2:30 pm Cowichan Library 2687 James Street Duncan

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-11 NATURAL BUILDING COLLOQUIUM 9am-10pm OUR Ecovillage 1565 Baldy Mountain Rd Shawnigan Lake 250-743-3067

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DANSE ORIENTAL PRESENTS SHIMMY & SILK A fundraiser for Somenos Transistion House-Cowichan Women Against Violence Society Tickets $10 miragedanse@shaw.ca Cow Cafe, Cowichan Bay

& 11 TEA FARM MOTHER’S DAY WEEKEND Organic chocolates and cakes paired with artisan teas 10am-5pm 8350 Richards Trail North Cowichan www.teafarm.ca

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&11 BRAD ALLEN METALWORKS GARDEN SHOW & SALE 10am-4pm 6486 Diana Dr Duncan meddleart.com

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ENSEMBLE LAUDE Annual Mother’s Day Concert A Cappella Providence Farm 1843 Tzouhalem Rd 2pm-3pm $10 RAISE A GLASS TO A LASS! ENSEMBLE LAUDE Fundraiser 6pm 3 course meal w/cider pairings Merridale Cider, Cobble Hill $80 pp

ORKESTAR SLIVOVICA Gypsy Band & Dance Show 778-455-4888 location TBA

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CHILDREN’S PINWHEEL BOWL POTTERY WORKSHOP 1-3pm Ages 8-10 Inspire Shawnigan #3 1760 Shawnigan Mill Bay Rd $20 tghumeny@gmail.com

WAITING FOR THE PARADE Chemainus Theatre Festival Runs to June 1st 9737 Chemainus Rd $25 250-246-9820

KELBY MACNAYR TRIO w/ Miles Black (piano), Russ Botton (bass) 2pm Crofton Hotel and Pub 1534 Joan Ave Crofton $10

CROFTON ART GROUP 60TH ANNIVERSARY SHOW AND SALE Friday and Saturday 10am5pm Crofton’s Senior Centre 1507 Joan Ave

SHADY GROVE FOLK ARTS PRESENTS RICK FINES folk 1108 Fern Ridge Dr Mill bay 2pm Suggested Donation $15

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CIRCUS SWORD PLAY Kids and Adults welcome 3-5pm $15-20 Tasha 250-715-8325

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COWICHAN VALLEY HIKE FOR HOSPICE Providence Farm 10am-1pm

FISH COOKING CLASS AT STONE SOUP INN 11am-2pm $63 pp (incl 4 course lunch) 6755 Cowichan Lake Rd 250 749-3848 AMUSÉ GRAND OPENING CELEBRATIONS 3pm- 6pm, RSVP required $25 pp Cherry Point Vineyards, 840 Cherry Point Rd COWICHAN FOLK GUILD BEER AND BURGER FUNDRAISER Cowichan Bay Pub 5pm-9pm $20 ARTWORK OF DALE NIGEL KEN HORN ANDY GIFFORD, Tangerine Dream Gallery and Studio 1725 Cowichan Bay Rd 1-3 pm runs to May 30

CARMINA BURANA Ballet Victoria Cowichan Theatre 2687 James St 7:30pm

COWICHAN VALLEY GARDEN CLUB ANNUAL SHOW & SALE: GARDEN EDIBLES 10 am-2pm Duncan United Church YOUNG CONCERTO WINNER CARTER JOHNSON Cowichan Consort Orchestra & Choir 7:30 pm Duncan Chr Ref Church Trunk Rd, Duncan Ad $15 Ch $10 MARK CRISSINGER & THE BLUEBUDZZ Blues Craig Street Pub 8pm - 11:30pm No Cover

WE BUILD HOMES FOR LIFE

GLENORA FARMER’S MARKET Glenora Hall 3630 Glenora Rd 12pm-4pm

AMUSÉ MOTHER’S DAY BRUNCH AND DINNER 10am and 1pm Cherry Point Vineyards 840 Cherry Point Rd Cowichan Bay $28 person MOTHER’S DAY TASTING ROOM 11am - 5pm Featuring Farmsgate Food, Unsworth Vineyards 2915 Cameron Taggart Rd, Cobble Hill

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& 26 SOUTH COWICHAN SENIORS DROP-IN and LUNCH Noon By Donation. Cobble Hill Hall, 3550 Watson Ave 55+ 250-743-5856

Somalila Studio Open House!

1584 Stamps Road, Duncan 250-597-7875 Join Somae Osler MA, RYT for tea and a complimentary yoga class.

• May 24 -Experience The Melt Method™ 1-2pm Restorative Yoga 3-4 pm •May 25 - Yoga And Meditation 11-Noon Yoga Basics Flow 1-2 pm Movement Meditation 4-5 pm

www.somalila.com somaeosler@shaw.ca

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

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COWICHAN POETRY CIRCLE Vancouver Island Regional Library-Cowichan 2687 James St Duncan 1:30-3:30pm

COMMUNITY ACCUPUNCTURE Frauke McCashin R.Ac. 10am-4pm Youth Pixie Hall Cobble Hill 250-710-3581 Sliding Scale

SAVE SHAWNIGAN WATER BLACK & WHITE GALA FUNDRAISER Music Dinner Live Auction Arbutus Ridge Banquet Room 6:30pm $75

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Spirit Gate Farm Open House 5-9 pm 2541 Herd Rd www.spiritgate.ca

Introduction to Equine Facilitated Leadership 10- 4 pm$195pp 2541 Herd Rd 250 737 1484

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WET FELTING WORKSHOP Introduction to the basics of wet felting 11:30am3:30pm Knights of Columbus Hall Indian Rd Duncan $65 nancdesigns.ca

& 25 STREAMKEEPER’S WORKSHOP 9am-4pm Cowichan Agricultural Society Hall info@cowichanlandtrust.ca $90 includes lunch and refreshments

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& 25 SOMALILA STUDIO YOGA OPEN HOUSE! Free Class May 24th Melt Method 1-2 pm, Restorative Yoga 3-4 pm May 25th Yoga and Meditation 11-12 noon, YogaBasicsFlow 1-2 pm Movement Meditation 4-5 pm. 1584 Stamps Rd, Duncan www. somalila.com 250-597-7875 SEVEN STAR OPENING POINTS GONG Seminar with Master Michael Tse 1-5pm Duncan Rivendell Yurt, 250 748 4060

HONEYMOON BAY FARMERS MARKET OPENS! 10am-2pm Honeymoon Bay Coffee Mill South Shore Rd 17/24/31

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LOW TIDE DAY IN COWICHAN BAY Science on the shore and more 9:30 check-in at Kil-pahlas beach Events all day. Family friendly. www.cowichanestuary.ca

PEACEFUL CALM MEDITATION SEMINAR w/ Master Michael Tse 11am-3pm Rivendell Yurt, 5215 Bills Rd www.TseQigongCentre.com

ANNUAL ROTARY GARDEN TOUR Self guided tour 8 gardens Ladysmith Aggie Hall 1110 1st ave Ladysmith 10am-4pm

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& 18 19TH MAPLE BAY MARINA WOODEN BOAT CELEBRATION Fri-Sun Maple Bay Marina 6145 Genoa Rd Maple Bay

GRANDFAMILY DAY activities planned to entertain all generations Mellor Hall Cowichan Exhibition Grounds 7380 Trans Canada Hwy $1

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MAKARIA FARM’S 6TH ANNUAL ORGANIC TOMATO PLANT SALE 10am1pm 4715 Bench Rd Cowichan Station www. makariafarm.com KITCHEN KNIVES WORKSHOP AND THE ART OF THE BRAISE 11am-2pm, $63 pp (incl 4 course lunch) 6755 Cowichan Lake Rd 250 749-3848 DRINKABLE JAZZ WITH LINDA BILLINGS 2pm Crofton Hotel 1534 Joan Ave Crofton $10

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COWICHAN VALLEY GREEN PARTY OF BC ANNUAL AGM 7pm, Just Jake’s, 2nd floor Featuring Adam Olsen of the Tsartlip Nation & Interim Leader of the Green Party of BC

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UNSWORTH RESTAURANT OPENS 2915 Cameron Taggart Rd, Cobble Hill

21/22/23 6-9PM Chun Yuen Quan seminar “13 Grab Stick” with Master Michael Tse: Glenora Hall, 3660 Glenora Rd 250 748 4060

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&25 SPOT PRAWN FESTIVAL Sat-Sun 11am-5pm Cowichan Bay Maritime Centre 1761 Cowichan Bay Rd. Children’s play area vendors local chef demos cook off prawn boils.

GABRIELLE Cowichan Theatre, 7pm 2687 James St, Duncan All proceeds benefit Cowichan Valley Hospice

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-31 BIKE TO WORK WEEK Cycle Therapy and Duncan Garage Celebration Station at Charles Hooey Park Thursday and Friday cyclecowichan.ca

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COWICHAN GREEN DRINKS for the green minded community Old Firehouse Wine Bar Duncan 40 Ingram St greendrinks.org HANDS ON STILL LIFE WORKSHOP with Sean Shertstone Hardwick Hall Highstreet and third ave Ladysmith $5 ladysmithcameraclub.com

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PIZZA NGHTS ARE BACK Birds Eye Cove Farm 4 -8pm 5881 Genoa Bay Rd

DEADLINE FOR 2014 ISLANDS SONGWRITING CONTEST Midnight $25 entry details www.islandsfolkfestival.ca

LADYSMITH MARITIME FESTIVAL 10am-4pm off Transfer Beach Blvd ST PETER’S FUNDRAISING GALA Dinner Dance Silent Auction Featuring Saxman Paul Wainwright band Proceeds go to repair, restore, and preserve one of the Cowichan Valley’s oldest heritage buildings. Duncan Meadows Country Club 5:30pm Tickets $100 250-7466262 WALK OF NATIONS 9:30am arrival 10am start Vancouver Island University Duncan A FUNDRAISER FOR THE FAMILY OF MILES PHILLIPS, AND THE COWICHAN BIODEISEL CO-OP the HUB, Cowichan Station, 5pm11pm $25 but no one will be turned away for lack of funds or for donating more!

MEDFORD SINGERS SPRING CONCERT 7pm, Duncan United Church 246 Ingram St $15 Volume One bookstore 250 748 5910

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Children & Apple Pie Fair Evergreen Independent School Community Celebration 10am-3pm Cobble Hill Hall and Fairgrounds

Please send your listings by the 15th of the month to events@cowichanvalleyvoice.com

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

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Issue 66 May 2014

Published by Cowichan Valley Voice Magazine Editors Sheila & Richard Badman Contact us at: editor@cowichanvalleyvoice.com 250 746 9319 - 936 Arbutus Avenue, Duncan V9L 5X4 Visit us online at www.cowichanvalleyvoice.com Copy Editor Calendar Fairy Proofreader Distribution Maeve Maguire Diana Pink Robin Gale Angela Advertising Enquiries Please Call Adrienne Richards 250 510 6596 Next Ad Deadline MAY 15 for JUNE ISSUE 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.

DEADLINE MAY 15 for JUNE 2014 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 SPECIAL THANKS TO FOLLOWING VALLEY VOICES Dan Hudson, Danny Lansdell, Healther McLeod, Mark Holford, Nick Versteeg, Matt Horn, ,Ashley Adams, Sharlene Ionescu, Grant Waldman., Sandra Beggs, Tom Downey, Nicola Cusi, Dee Kinnee, Susan Stitt,Todd Gesshe, Simone Sulk, Bill Dumont, Jeff de Jong, Liberty Harakas,Wendy Robison, Linda Billings, Swarn Leung, Rommy Verlaan, Michelle Staples, Martha Lescher, Somae Osler, Michelle Atterby, Deb Wood, Brad Allen, Joane Moran, Sophy Roberge,Tracey Hanson, Ellen McEwan, Simon Pidcock, Nicolette Genier and The Wonderful Staff at The Community Farm Store and The Lovely Georgia Nicols We welcome your story ideas & photo submissions, however Cowichan Valley Voice Magazine reserves the right to omit and/or edit all submissions for space, clarity, content and style. The opinions expressed in Valley Voice Magazine do not necessarily reflect those of the editor, publishers or other contributors. Please send a query e-mail with your suggested topic prior to sending your article as space is limited and may not always be available.

Valley Voice Magazine is distributed through 450 + select locations throughout the Cowichan Valley- Malahat, Mill Bay, Shawnigan Lake, Cherry Point, Duncan, Cowichan Bay, Crofton, Chemainus and Salt Spring Island and to Cowichan Lake, Ladysmith,Victoria, Tofino and from the Victoria International Airport Arrivals Hall.

ADVERTISE TO OVER 25,000 LOYAL READERS IN YOUR COMMUNITY

2014 SPRING RATE CARDS NOW AVAILABLE

Contact Adrienne Richards

250 510 6596

adrienne@cowichanvalleyvoice.com

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OUR COMMUNITY May Community Calendar 4-5 Cowichan Valley Farmers Markets 9 Cowichan Bay Spot Prawn Festival 16 Eye On Shawnigan:Kali Yoga 23 Explore an Urban Food Forest 26 DBIA May Feature 28-31 19th Maple Bay Marina Wooden Boat Festival 37 Win Money in Chemainus39 Faxes, Mail and Verbal Lint by Rick Dennis 52 My Horoscopes with Georgia Nicols 51 Community Farm Store Pages 46-47 Walk of Nations 48 Cowichan Valley Feature Listings 53 Cowichan Valley Directory 54-55 LOCAL FOOD AND DRINK Boat To Lunch In Genoa Bay 7 On The Farm With Makaria Farm 8 Local Food News 10 Chef Dan Hudson Stuffed Zucchini Blossoms 11 Island Farmhouse Poultry Chef Matt Horn 13 Feast Event in Tofino 14 Musings From The Vines 15 Food Artisans of Vancouver Island 17 FARM & GARDEN Pollination Is Procreation 12 Frontyard Farming 24 Tomato Transplant Tips 25 The Healthiest Plants To Grow 26 Cowichan Valley Garden Fair 27 Edible Arrangement by Ellen McEwan 53 HOME & LIVING Recycling Your Old Paint 32 Mattresses and Pillows 34 Interior Design for Senior Living 35 Reno Rebate 38 LOCAL ARTS May Music News 19 Words To Savour 22 Local Arts News 40 Talking Arts:Brad Allen 41 Imagine That! Artisan Joane Moran 43 FAMILY Healing The Mother Child Relationship 21 Low Tide Day in Cowichan Bay 36 BODY, MIND & SOUL Complimentary Yoga at Somalila Studio 22 Qi Gong Seminars 20 Qi Gong For Cancer 20 Shiatsu with Martha Lescher 42 Mother’s Day Readings 44 PETS & RECREATION Equine Facilitated Leadership 48 Oh Those Fleas! 49

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

Boat To Lunch in Genoa Bay

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he Genoa Bay Café is pleased to announce the re-launch of Greylag Boat Tours and the Genoa Bay Cafe Shuttle on Mothers’ Day weekend.

Greylag Boat Tours is proudly owned by Tim Doyle, a local shipwright who offers tourists and locals the opportunity to see historic Cowichan Bay and the surrounding area from the water, and a much needed shuttle service between Cowichan Bay and Genoa Bay. As an alternative to the scenic drive along Genoa Bay Road, guests of the Café can enjoy a quaint 20-minute sailing to Genoa Bay in the 12-seat Greylag, a 26-foot former Second World War Canadian Navy captain’s ‘gig’. Doyle rebuilt and converted it to a touring vessel, which he reintroduced to the waters of Cowichan Bay after a 25-year hiatus.

The shuttle to Genoa Bay

runs six times daily, and just in time for lunch or dinner.

The first 20-minute trip leaves Cowichan Bay at 11 a.m. and the last at 9 p.m., while the first trip from Genoa Bay leaves at 11:30 a.m. and the last at 9:30 p.m., when guests often get a waterside view of a beautiful Cowichan sunset.

While there is a set schedule for the shuttle, a one-hour tour service is available on an interest basis. Greylag picks up and drops off all tour and shuttle customers at the Cowichan Bay Fisherman’s Wharf --- your voyage starts by calling 250-812-7543 for information and reservations.

And don’t forget to make reservations at the Genoa Bay Café, 250-746-7621.

Shuttle fares are $15 for adults, $12 for seniors and teens and $10 for children, while tour fares are $20 per adult, $15 for seniors and teens and $12 for children.

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

• Live Music • Remote Control Boat Pool • Come vote for your favourite Wooden Boats!

• Artists,Vendor Booths and more!

Festival Open To Public Saturday & Sunday!

Genoa Bay Cafe Co-owners Stacey and Gord

6145 Genoa Bay Road, Maple Bay www.maplebaymarina.com

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Honeymoon Bay Every Saturday Outdoor Market

SATURDAYS 10am - 2pm

May 17 thru October 11 For info call Bob 250-749-7233 or Linda 250-749-7772

Follow the signs to the Honeymoon Bay Market!

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t’s a beautiful Saturday and you have someone you want to entertain: friends, family, yourself. You’re in luck. The Duncan Farmers Market runs from 9am to 2pm every Saturday through the summer months, and it’s a wonderful place to shop, run into old friends and spend a few hours relaxing in the open air. For those who have never explored our local downtown farmers market, here are a few tips to make your experience even more enjoyable:

on the farm

8th Season!

Visit us for seasonal Local Produce, Plants, Flowers, Sewing, Baking, Preserves, Handmade Soaps, Bodycare, Arts & Crafts and More!

• Prepare to spend a few hours at the market so you can see everything. The market runs down Ingram Street as well as in City Square, with more than 100 vendors in the peak season.

• Give yourself time to visit with the friends you will inevitably run into.

• Bring cash, as well as credit/ debit cards. Most vendors only accept cash, but vendors who sell $10+ items tend to accept cards as well.

your plants without damaging them, or even a wagon.

• Bring a friend or family member along. There’s something at the market for everyone, with live music, children’s clothing, fresh vegetables, beauty products and dog cookies.

• People-friendly dogs are welcome on a leash: some vendors put out drinking water, and there are shady rest areas, such as the Green Door Society house on Ingram Street.

• If it’s hot out, bring a water bottle, wear a hat and sunscreen, and take advantage of the shady rest areas.

• Don’t hesitate to ask the vendors about their products.

Our market is a “make it, bake it, grow it” market: you’re buying from proud, local producers and artisans.

• Plan to eat downtown if possible, at a market food truck or downtown restaurant.

• Take time to check out some of the local businesses that make a point of being open on Saturdays to add to the market experience.

• Bring reusable shopping bags to hold your separate purchases.

• If you’re in the market for vegetable or flower seedlings, bring a flat carrying tray, like a cardboard pop can flat, to hold

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

Makaria Farm’s Brock and Ariella at the Duncan Farmers Market

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

W D m M O v b t f o I c w j & f o s c

T k e s o S a t i W t C N i a p f G c f v c t M t

Duncan Farmers Market Saturdays 9am -2pm Welcome to the year-round, downtown Duncan Farmers’ Market! This year marks our 100th anniversary of Farmers’ Markets in the Cowichan Valley.

Our market offers fresh picked vegetables and fruit, nurtured plants, baked mouth-watering bread and other treats, jams and preserves, local honey, farm-fresh eggs, meats and poultry, organic coffee and tea & pet treats.

In addition, an amazing group of local crafters and artisans populate our market with wood work, sculpture, furniture, jewellery, fibre arts, face-painting, soaps & skin care products. An assortment of funky food-carts round out the market, offering local as well as ethnic inspired snacks and lunch for our dedicated customers.

The Duncan Farmers’ Market is well known for offering superb local live entertainment on both the City Square stage as well as on the grassy grounds of the Green Door location on Ingram Street. There is an abundance of seating and tables for customers to sit and enjoy the sites and sounds and plenty of room in the Square for children to dance about.

We are also very proud to partner again this season with the Cowichan Green Community & BCAFM to offer the Nutrition coupon program for low income families and seniors. This program which is funded through BC Government offers coupons to selected families to purchase vegetables, eggs, cheese and meat at the Duncan Farmers’ Market from spring through to fall.

South Cowichan Farmers Market Fridays 2pm-7pm Sundays 10am -3pm Our market presents local vendors selling everything from produce, handmade artisan gifts, delicious homemade food, baked goods, coffee, tea, and popcorn.

The market features entertainment, raffles and contests for both vendors and shoppers.Designed not only as a shopping place but also as a social community venue. Our aim is to support local farmers and small business people who grow, make or bake their products.

South Cowichan Farmers Market is there to help educate the buying public on how their food and other essential products are produced and used. Vancouver Island has the unrivaled benefits of having some of the best local organic farms and small producers around.

South Cowichan Farmers Market provides an outing where there are a variety of local items for every one.

Come and have a look for yourself and we hope you will be pleasantly surprised.

Meet the local farmers and producers and buy directly from them. 4790 TransCanada Highway at Bench Road

Honeymoon Bay Outdoor Market Saturdays 10am-2pm What started eight years ago as tents on a gravel lot, has grown into a “Frontier Town”, a collection of themed shelters made from re-cycled materials. There’s a thriving Community Garden, where vendors have picked produce to order!

We offer seasonal produce, unique crafts, spices, French pastries, rustic breads, soaps, and candles and sewing, Oh my! And there’s usually music we can all sing along to. So come out to Honeymoon Bays’ Outdoor Market, bring a friend, and enjoy our unique take on a country market.

All Jazz Shows $10 unless stated

Sunday, May 4 • 2-5 pm John Lee Duo Sunday, May 11• 2-5pm Kelby MacNayr Trio withMiles Black (piano), Russ Botton (bass) Sunday, May 18 • 2-5pm Drinkable Jazz with Victoria vocalist, Linda Billings w/ Special Guests

Sunday, May 25 2-5pm The Not Yet Quartet

1534 Joan Avenue Crofton

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for Cyser and Scrumpy. Anytime you are thirsty for more, simply come back to merridale with your clean, empty growler and we will refill it. A very affordable and environmentally friendly way to get more of a good thing! 1230 Merridale Rd, Cobble Hill www.merridalecider.com

Stuffed and Battered Zucchini Blossoms Courtesy Chef Dan Hudson

Ingredients

4 partially opened zucchini blossoms 50 g semi soft goat cheese 10 g black pepper (freshly ground/ cracked

Batter:

3 tbls all purpose flour 2 tbls cornstarch 1 tbls baking powder Pinch of salt Water

Learn about Knives and Braising This class is taught by Brock Windsor, Chef and Owner of Stone Soup Inn. The subject covered is knife selection, sharpening and skills, learn all about knives and examine different types and uses of knives, laminated, carbon steel and stainless steel. The knife is the primary cooks tool and therefore very important to cooks. Braising techniques will be demonstrated and discussed and is followed by a four course lunch on the theme of braising. Sunday, May 18th, 2014, 11am-2pm, $63 per person includes a 4 course lunch, call 250-7493848 for details or to reserve

Merridale Cider Now In Refillable Jugs!

Looking for delicious merridale cider in larger quantities? Or perhaps you are trying to reduce waste, be kinder to the environment, and cut down on trips to the recycling depot. Either way, merridale has come up with the perfect win-win solution… Growlers! You may have seen these refillable 1.89 litre glass jugs available from other local breweries, and now we are proud to offer our very own. Purchase a growler container for $6 from the merridale farmhouse store, and then have it filled with the cider of your choice: $14 for a fill of House, $15 for Traditional or Merri Berri, and $22

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Method:

Pizza Nights Are Back at Birds Eye Cove Farm Wood Fired Pizza Mondays are back and run from 4pm -8pm and run thru to September including all holidays!

Chef Ashley Lee, makes all the dough by hand, as well as the tasty tomato sauce. All toppings are sourced from Birds Eye Cove Farm or locally. Each week we offer a selection of signature pizzas, as well as a daily special. This season Ashley also hopes to offer some tasty appetizers, and creative desserts that feature the wood fired oven. This is a very family friendly night out, and we encourage you to bring a frisbee to toss while you’re waiting for your pizza. Bring a picnic blanket to relax on the hillsides, or sit at our tables. We do not take reservations, and remind customers we can only make so many pizzas within the allotted 4 hours we are open on Mondays.

Your patience is appreciated as we make each pizza to order by hand.

5881 Genoa Bay Rd, Duncan www. birdseyecovefarm. com

• Use a deep fryer or heat up a pot

with good frying oil until very hot! *Note blossoms need to be able to float in the oil.

• Mix goat cheese and pepper together and stuff into zucchini blossoms • To make the batter, combine all dry ingredients together and slowly add water while stirring to make a semi- loose batter. Lumps are ok as they will create texture when cooking.

• Completely coat stuffed blossoms with batter and gently and carefully place in fry or hot oil. Note for safety lay blossoms in oil so they fall away from you to avoid risk of hot oil splashing back at you.

• Cook for 5 minute, remove using metal utensil and place on paper towel to remove any excess oil.

Serve and enjoy.

May is for Mom around for that perfect cup of tea to share with mom in the garden.

While you’re in the garden enjoy the nutty goodness of overwintered brassica blossoms and let the spring air carry your gratitude home.

Although edible flowers may be the most practical way to show mom you care, the Cowichan valley offers countless ways to spend time with our mothers. ou won’t find a better month Head down town Duncan and do some shopping, as much as to celebrate the centre of mom loves us they love Cardino your universe. This time of baby shoes even more. While down lambs and brilliant blossoms is a town you will also want to treat constant reminder of our origins, your mom to lunch at Hudson’s a time when we can honour and On First, where Chef Daniel is reflect on the bringer of life, our foraging the far reaches of his mothers. Just like the universe, mom has been there from the very mind to bring you the best and beginning; she will always be there freshest culinary delights the and will forever love and guide us Cowichan has to offer. Now that along our journey. Now is the time you’re satiated and perfectly relaxed a surprise visit to Matisse to shower her with unconditional Day Spa would be just right. gratitude.

Mom will really know you care when you finish your day with We all know what mom’s love, their children, oh and I guess some the oh so charming Victor at TeaFarm, where you can rejoice of them like flowers and food with a rejuvenating cup of as well. Combine two of mom’s camomile flower, lavender Earl favourite things and you’ll have Grey or Jasmine tea and some edible flowers. Now is a great delicate sweets. If you’re really time to think about this tasty aromatic gift that gives throughout set on getting mom something practical, a cooking class with the year. Why not spend some time with your ever loving mother Daniel Hudson is the gift that keeps on giving. planting spicy nasturtiums or fragrant lavender, every time she Danny likes to eat makes a salad or takes a bath she and drink regularly. will be reminded of your love. In the Cowichan valley it isn’t hard to find edible flowers perking up everywhere. Calendula, mint and sweet clover always seem to be

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LOCAL, SEASONAL and WILD Soups & Breads available at Duncan Saturday Market

comin! g soon

May 4: Fish Cooking Class May 18: Kitchen Knives Workshop and the Art of the Braise June 22: Forest Foraging with Della Rice-Sylvester & Wild Foods Lunch *Please call to book or for more information

Farm Restaurant ✣ B & B ✣ Cooking Classes 250-749-3848 www.stonesoupinn.ca

6755 Cowichan Lake Rd (highway 18 at Skutz Falls Rd)

For full design/build service, give us a call

 250.746.5372 • coulsondesign@shaw.ca • www.davidcoulsondesign.com  Eat, Drink and Support Local

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Pollination is Procreation

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Return to a clean home and workplace.

Giving you back the luxury of time and a naturally clean home to enjoy it in!

Providing professional, eco friendly cleaning services.

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

Home Cleaning Gift Certificates available for Family & Friends!

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ollination comes up a lot this bloomy time of year, so here’s my attempt to shed some simplified light on the subject.

Trees are sexual beings just like us. That juicy plum, peach, apple, or pear is the product of well-timed arboreal lust.

Though some varieties of trees are listed as “self-fertile” (meaning they may produce fruit without a partner), the majority of trees, including self-fertile ones, will set more fruit if they have a pollination partner (“lover”) nearby. A pollination partner is simply a different variety of the same type of fruit (apples to apples) which will be blooming at the same time. When selecting apple varieties for your yard, research the bloom-time of the apple and ensure that it has a mate nearby (50-100 feet) that will be blooming

at the same time. The bees (“cupids”) will take care of the rest.

The only time things get tricky is with sterile triploid varieties because as the name implies, they are sterile and cannot pollinate other trees. There are not many, but a few of the more common triploid apples are: Gravenstein, Jonagold, Bramley’s Seedling, and Mutsu. Because of their sterility, triploid varieties are completely dependent on a pollination partner in order to produce any fruit whatsoever.

Here’s what can happen: Toni the sterile Gravenstein and its pollination partner, Billie the fertile Liberty live together. In this arrangement, Billie can pollinate Toni, but not vice versa because Toni is sterile. This of course leaves Toni with a bumper crop, but may leave Billie the Liberty apple without much of a crop. Billie the Liberty likes pollination too, so a third pollinating apple (an Akane could work) needs to be planted in order to ensure that Billie produces lots of apples also. Ménage a trois pour les pommes.

There are many factors that can affect pollination, so make sure to do your research and choose your varieties wisely. May your fruit baskets overflow!

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

Todd Gesshe is an ISA Certified Arborist and professional urban forester. cascaradesigns.ca

“It’s fresher from here”

Smoked Alfredo Fettucine with Rosemary Roasted Chicken Chef Matt Horn, Cowichan Pasta Dirk and Bea Keller of Sloping Hill Farm became the first certified organic grain farm on Vancouver Island where they grow ancient grains and oats. Emmer is the first cereal grain grown by humans. Its lineage dates back over 7,000 years and is largely responsible for changing humans from hunter-gatherers to farmers. Cowichan Pasta uses Sloping Hill Farm’s Emmer which is GMO free, organically grown and stone milled in BC.

Amount 6

2 Tbsp 1 Cup 1 1 4 oz 4 oz To Taste 2 Tbsp 1 Pkg

Ingredients

Island Farmhouse Poultry Chicken Thighs butter 35% cream garlic clove shallot Gruyere shredded Smoked cheddar shredded Salt and Pepper fresh chopped rosemary Cowichan Pasta Emmer Fettuccine

Method

In a large saucepan, melt butter over a med-hi heat, add minced garlic and shallots. Saute for 2-3 minutes.

Reduce heat to med-lo, add cream and cheeses, keep stirring till the cheeses are completlty melted and the sauce has smooth consistency.

Reduce heat to low and simmer, to allow sauce to thicken slightly, stirring occasionally. Season with salt and pepper to taste.

For chicken season with salt, pepper and rosemary cook in 400F oven for 20-25mins until fully cooked.

Pull chicken apart and toss with sauce and cooked pasta.

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

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Tofino Chefs. Image Jeremy Koreski

For Boat-to-Table Menus, Be Sure to Feast in Tofino:

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h, spring. Warmer days, sunnier dispositions and, if you’re in Tofino, boat loads of seafood. Stay in May and you’re bound to indulge in the seaside community’s wider cast of the net, thanks to its annual Feast Tofino — a month-long series of culinary celebrations that deliciously showcase all that comes from the sea. This west coast surf-lovers’ town boasts more than its fair share of chefs, farmers, foragers, fishermen and women, making this an ideal locale to seek out salmon, crack crab and spot prawns. Where to start?

Guest chefs Trevor Bird of Vancouver’s Fable Restaurant and Jonathan Gushue of Gushue Hospitality take turns joining the Wickaninnish Inn’s culinary team for an inspirational Chef’s Table (May 8 and May 15 respectively) before making their way to the Driftwood Café Patio and Grille May 9 (Bird) and May 16 (Gushue) for a casual, barbecuestyle seafood feast topped with a stroll along Chesterman Beach. Asian fusion is served up with west coast flair at Shelter, May 10, when resident chef Matty Kane matches knives with Joel Wantanabe of Vancouver Chinatown favourite Bao Bei. For those who prefer

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to work up an appetite, grab the gear May 17 for the Dirty Moto X Gourmet, a day of back road dirt biking capped by a wild gourmet barbecue in the trees. May 22 marks the fest’s first-annual Long Table, a Feast signature event at the Best Western Tin Wis Resort that artfully blends beachfront scenery with menus from a multitude of local chefs. For sustenance served alongside educational jaunts, bring the family to the Saturday Dockside Festival, May 24, where fresh coastal nibbles are interspersed with tours of the 4th Street Dock. For more information and a full event listing, please check out FeastTofino.com.

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

e

Musings From the vines A s if nurturing acres and acres of vines wasn’t enough, Linda (who is the boss) loves flowers and plants and has a desire to have one of the nicest gardens on the island. This of course is a never-ending source of debate between us – me wanting to focus resources and energy on the grapes, Linda wanted to divert said resources and energy into making our gardens bigger, better and more beautiful.

While I may not be quite as enthusiastic about them, I do love the gardens when our flowers are in full bloom. From spring to fall we have something out

Spot Prawn Marinade Amount

1/2 cup 2 Tbsp 2 ¼ cup 1 2 Tbsp 1 lb Dash

Method:

Ingredients

Pinot Gris Olive Oil Garlic, finely chopped Shallot, finely chopped Lemon Fresh Chives Spot Prawns Sea Salt

1. Combine wine, olive oil, garlic and shallots.

2. Use a lemon zester to zest the peel of the lemon and add to the marinade. Squeeze the juice of the lemon into the marinade as well.

3. Add seafood – we suggest prawns or scallops. For this Recipe we are using Local Spot Prawns 4. Marinate for 30 mins to 2 hours.

5.Cook in the oven on a cookie sheet (~5-8 mins at 350F) and keep the marinade. Great with home-made sourdough bread to soak up the marinade.

there flowering. It starts with early spring bulbs, our flowering cherries and plums and our Camellias. Bring on the tulips, rhododendrons, azaleas, then we progress into all our summer flowers – roses, peonies, lilies... the list goes on.

It’s been quite a challenge to plan our gardens to have a continuous array of flowers no matter what time of year it is.

We’ve benefited from family and friends who regularly bring us new additions when they are cleaning up their beds and splitting existing plants. It’s also an interesting source of frustration as we use volunteer help for a lot of the work being done and sometimes they don’t recognize weeds from plants. We’ve had one small peony that’s been dug up three times in the last three years. It never stays in the ground long enough to really get established before someone yanks it out thinking it’s a weed. We were very fortunate that our property was previously owned by a family that operated a small nursery and landscaping company – so we had some beautiful established plants to start with such as a variegated maple tree, evergreens, lots of rhododendrons and azaleas... We keep adding more beds – soon the gardens will cover more of our property then the grass... which is great for mowing but not so good for weeding. It’s an interesting challenge, after we finish a major activity in the vineyard such as tucking vines, where we spend a couple of weeks ensuring the shoots are all growing straight up and are out of our rows – we then spend a week weeding and working on the garden beds. Then back to tucking again.

We also have a pretty nice vegetable

garden so we can grow our own salads, corn, peppers, and lots of fresh herbs – which can brighten up our dinner menus substantially. I’ve included a recipe for one of my favorite super easy to prepare dinners - a great seafood marinade that is amazing with fresh spot prawns. This is a great recipe, and a favorite of our volunteers. In a pinch dinner can be on the table in under 45 minutes. Of course the absolute best is picking up the prawns fresh from the dock... and decapitating them moments before throwing them in the marinade... but you can buy them already prepped and ready to go too.

Support our local artists. They make our world more beautiful to live in.

Mark Holford Owner/ Winemaker at Rocky Creek Winery for the past 9 years

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Cowichan Bay Spot Prawn Festival

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t’s spring, it’s the month of May, and once again time for Cowichan Bay’s Spot Prawn Festival. Stop by this Cittaslow village on May 24 and 25 and you’ll find the Valley’s top chefs creating spot prawn delights to eat at the demonstration tent; shops overflowing with fresh bread, cheeses, ice creams, hats and scarves and more; street vendors and buskers; face painters; and the ever popular prawn boil. Enjoy any variety of this local seafood on the menus of the village restaurants, and take home recipes available at the cooking demonstrations.

This two-day festival is for the whole family. The village is a people friendly place to stroll about from end to end.

Park your cars outside and take advantage of a quick turnaround in our shuttle buses. Park at the north end of the village on Cowichan Bay Road at the South Cowichan Lawn Tennis Club or at the

Image courtesy Rachel Penney

southern side at Bench School on Cowichan Bay Road and catch the shuttle into the village.

The star of the show, of course, is BC’s very own Spot Prawn. This deliciously sweet seafood from our local waters will be fresh-caught the day you pick them up on the dock.

To give you lots of time to enjoy all that Cowichan Bay has to offer, prawn purchases are by ticket only, no cash sales. Order directly from Cowichan Bay Seafood— phone 250-748-0020 or visit them in the village.

Spot Prawns are the largest of the seven commercial species of shrimp found in Canada’s West Coast waters. The reddish/orange body of this prawn has white horizontal bars on the shell and earns its name “spot” because of the two distinctive white spots on each side of the tail. The fishery is a tightly regulated one to ensure conservation

BC Spot Prawn fisherman Greg Best, co owner Cowichan Bay Seafoods with fresh prawns. of the stocks and responsible fishing practices on habitats and ecosystems. This fishery is the perfect expression of Cowichan Cittaslow– a movement committed to celebrating community spirit, environmental stewardship, and the production and harvest of local food, drink and products. The festival is one way to showcase what is unique about the Cowichan

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 8th and live prawns will be available down at Cowichan Bay Seafood on May 9th 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

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Bay area—the first such community in North America to receive the international Cittaslow designation.

Check out the website prawnfest.ca for festival details and plan on coming to the festival Saturday and Sunday, May 24 and 25 from 11 am to 5 pm.

For more information on Cittaslow visit www.slowcowichan.com

Starting May 12 Open 7 Days A Week 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

Gulf Islands—and don’t forget your appetite. Don Genova has a keen understanding of the essential ingredients: passion, skill, and dedicated people producing only the best in local food and drink.

Don Genova is the islands’ Amor de Cuisine.” —Mark Forsythe, host, CBC Radio’s BC Almanac

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n this guide to Vancouver Island’s and the Gulf Islands’ best food and produce, renowned food writer Don Genova profiles some of the talented and passionate food artisans, chefs, and business owners of the region. Meet the people behind this vibrant food network—learn their history, discover favourite offerings by the producers, and get a sense of how well you can eat if you buy local.

Take Food Artisans of Vancouver Island and the Gulf Islands along on one of the suggested day trips and visit bakeries and cafés; butchers, charcutiers, and salumists; cheese and ice cream shops; chocolate makers; cideries, distilleries, and wineries; coffee roasters and tea stores; community grocers and specialty food shops; farms and farmers’ markets; fishmongers and seafood producers, and kitchen supply stores.

“Prepare to meet the wondrous food artisans of Vancouver Island and the

Don Genova is a Vancouver Island– based awardwinning freelance journalist and teacher specializing in food and travel. His radio column with cbc Victoria is called Food Matters and delves into the world of sustainable eating in British Columbia.

The Boutique

1721 Cowichan Bay Rd.

778-455-4888

One of a kind, Clothing, Accessories and gifts for the whole family. Each piece is handcrafted with love by artists from around the corner and across BC. 1725 Cowichan Bay Rd.

250-597-1444

Imagination Station

Your NEW location for Creation! Fun for all ages.

Workshops, projects, activities and more! Drop in and make a personalized card, the weekly craft or take classes.

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

Genova earned a master’s of food culture from the University of Gastronomic Sciences in Italy in 2007.

He also holds a bachelor of environmental science from the University of Waterloo and is an honours graduate of the Humber College Radio Broadcasting Program.

Thursdays Intro to Silversmithing 7pm-9pm $45

MAY EVENTS Fridays Open Jewelry Studio 6:30pm-9pm $30 + supplies

Matching Mugs • Plates • Bowls •Vases • Vessels • Honey Pots • Tea Pots • Urns • Shakers & more!

EVERY SATURDAY & SUNDAY !

DROP IN CREATIVE

11am - 5pm For Kids of all ages $5 drop in + supplies 778-455-4888 to book Located between True Grain Bread and Zoe’s Espresso in Cow Bay

Choose CLAY for Mother’s Day!

The Mud Room Clayworks Potter Colleen Underwood 250 710 7329 1725 Cowichan Bay Road

Spot Prawn Festival Mugs and Magnets too!

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On Mother’s Day Raise A Glass To A Lass

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aise a glass to a lass!

This Mother’s Day (May 11th) support award-winning women’s choir, Ensemble Laude, while treating yourself to a musical evening of dinner, cider and artistic adventure. Set at Merridale Cidery in Cobble Hill, the evening kicks off with a drink at 5 pm, followed at 6 by a three-course meal with cider pairings. At 7 pm, Elizabeth MacIsaac will direct the choir through an array of songs from their current season. During this concert, Cowichan Valley artist, Chantey Dayal, will translate the music into a painting that

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one of the guests will win at the end of the evening.

Tickets to this event are $80 per person and are available at www.ensemblelaude.org or at the Community Farm Store in the Duncan Garage.

Proceeds will be used by the choir for future local and international touring. A short family-friendly concert will also be performed earlier in the day (2 pm) in the Chapel at Providence Farm, tickets available at brownpapertickets.com, the Community Farm Store, or at the door. 1230 merridale rd, Cobble Hill

Amuse Opens at Cherry Point Vineyards

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wners Bradford Boisvert and Leah Bellerive welcome you to join them as they celebrate their move to Cherry Point Vineyards.

Starting May 1st the terrior focused seed to table cuisine of Chef Bradford Boisvert of Amusé on the Vineyard will be complementing the award winning wines of Cherry Point Estate Vineyards. Established in 1994, Cherry Point Vineyards well established vines coupled with the vision of current owners, Xavier Bonilla and Maria Clara, have made this property a true vinicultural destination. “We are so excited to welcome

Amuse to our Farm Vineyard,” Bonilla exclaims “and we look forward to the pairing of Chef Bradford’s cuisine with our selection of 12 unique Cherry Point estate produced wines.”

But also with this move comes expansion; Amusé will also now be welcoming weddings and large events.

Amuse Grand Opening Celebrations at Cherry Point Vineyards, Sunday May 4th 3pm - 6pm, $25 per person includes canapés, grazing stations and a glass of sparkling wine. RSVP required 250 743 3667

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

may

music

Mark Crissinger and The Bluebudzz Mark Crissinger’s shows combines acoustic and electric guitars with harmonica solos and soulful vocals.

Original recordings plus some folk-rock, blues and pub favorites. A few road stories and many years of showmanship makes for a fun, upbeat and dynamic night of music. The Bluebudzz are a five piece band featuring Guitar,Bass Drums,Piano,Harmonica Saturday, May 10, 8pm, Craig St Brew Pub, Duncan

Orkestar Slivovica Orkestar Slivovica is a 10-piece brass band playing traditional Roma (“Gypsy”) wedding and dance music from Serbia and Macedonia, including engaging vocals in Romani and Serbian/Macedonian languages and some forays into modern Roma style music. This spring we are bringing a guest star from Serbia: The award-winning trumpet master Demiran Cerimovic. Demiran Cerimovic is a Roma master musician and the show guarantees a high energy and unforgettable performance. Up to three hours of playing time with very short breaks is possible. Often costumed dancers lead audience members in line dances for an interactive experience adding to the festive atmosphere. Show booked, location TBA. Please call 778-455-4888 for more details.

Cowichan Folk Guild Islands Songwriting Contest

Deadline: Midnight Friday, May 30th www.islandsfolkfestival.ca. This contest is an excellent opportunity for all Island songwriters to gain recognition for their talent. It is NOT based on the ‘idol’ model.

It is a platform to support home grown songwriters. We’re not looking for the prettiest songwriter we’re looking for the best song. The theme of the contest this year is History. We’re looking for a great song about the History of Vancouver Island, or any other island, of the Cowichan Tribes, of the Islands Folk Festival, of the Providence Farm, of Duncan (the great flood of 2009) or any other town, would be some examples. Our theme changes each year and is meant to provide a guideline as a general topic. Let your creative juices ne i l flow in any direction. d De a ! g Do not take the n h i C l o s ay 30 t theme too literally.

M Think outside the box. Just write a great song about History.

Open to residents of Vancouver Island and the Gulf Islands.

Songwriting Contest 2014 Theme

“History”

Let your creative juices flow in any direction.

Think outside the box and write a great song about History.

Open to All Islanders

Visit www.islandsfolkfestival.ca to enter

The Aaron Murray Project The Cowichan Folk Guild Coffee House features The Aaron Murray Project.

Experience front porch singalongs, Celtic flavoured reels, waltzes, train songs and country foot stompers steeped in the folk/ country tradition. Bluegrass, Old Time, Folk and Country influences illuminate Aaron’s all originals playlist: an homage to the back home dance halls and kitchen parties from whence sprang Aaron’s Acadian musicality. As a green teenager, he witnessed the power of music to unite and entertain in family and social gatherings, Country Hall dances, through high school and into university and in his traveled career as a troubadour musician. Duncan United Church 246 Ingram St. May 10, Doors open at 7 PM. Open Stage starts at 7:30 PM. $10 or $5 for CFG members

Drinkable Jazz with Linda Billings Quench your thirst with Drinkable Jazz featuring vocalist Linda Billings, guitarist Gary Theal and Bill Kent on Bass.The quartet features an eclectic mix of classic jazz and blues with a new twist on old standards. Linda Billings, a passionate and animated vocalist, with roots in choirs, musical theatre, big band and ensemble jazz. Completing the foursome is: Gary Theal, a veteran of vocalist accompaniment, theatre orchestras, big bands, and a variety of jazz ensembles; Bill Kent, an accomplished bass player; and Barry Gray, a respected local drummer provides the percussive momentum for the unique sounds of Drinkable Jazz.Drinkable Jazz Sunday Jazz Series, May 18, Cover $10, 2pm Crofton Hotel & Pub 1534 Joan Ave.

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Medical Qi Gong For Cancer

W

hen we think of Cancer what comes to mind?

For many of us, it is something unwanted, growing out of control somewhere inside of us. A diagnosis, immediately changes our life as we know it.

Western Medicine offers surgery, chemo, and radiation.

These procedures although having worked for some, leave many of us as unsettled, as the diagnosis of the cancer inside of us.

Many studies have shown that Medical/Healing Qi Gong along with surgery, chemo and radiation have improved the longevity in patients diagnosed with cancer as well as helped to lessen the side affects of these treatments.

Medical Qi Gong is the energetic component of

Traditional Chinese Medicine and follows the same principles. Starting from the place that we are all physical beings, energetic/emotional beings, and beings of spirit.

By the time a dis-ease becomes physical it has already affected us emotionally, energetically and ultimately our spirit selves.

While Western Medicine for the most part is working on healing our physical body, studies have shown that by working with the whole person, body, mind and spirit, chances of true and complete healing are improved greatly.

Our thoughts and emotions are derived from our personal experiences we have had in our life. We hold these feelings and emotions of our experiences in the cells, tissues and organs of our

body. In cases of cancer, we have held these emotional experiences for a very long time, and/ or with immense intensity.

According to Traditional Chinese Medicine tumours are the physical manifestations of long held, and intensely held emotions from experiences we are unable to process or let go of. Sometimes from so long ago, we have forgotten about them, but are still hanging on to them.

Medical Qi Gong exercises and treatments are designed to unravel the emotional entanglements and get to the root of the dis-ease so that the true healing can begin.

Healing and Freeing the spirit so that the body can once again return to it’s natural state of good health and vitality.

Rommy Verlaan is a Master Level Medical Qi Gong Therapist. She has also

This gentle form connects with the seven stars of the Big Dipper and the North direction. North relates to the Water element which relates to the kidneys. Healthy kidneys are very important for our good health and will give us lots of energy and help us to keep a clear and focused mind.

So, regular practice of this form will help us to develop our Sky Eye potential as our Qi gets stronger and body healthier.

worked in supporting women in crisis, suffering from abuse and trauma for over 15 years.

To find out how Medical Qi Gong may benefit you, as you journey back to health and well being, contact Rommy at: rommy.v@hotmail.com 250-749-6563 Rommy offers: • Group classes for people diagnosed with cancer.

•Group classes for general Medical Qi gong exercises.

•Medical Qi Gong Treatments which are energetic in nature.

•One on one sessions and exercise classes.

Peaceful & Calm Meditation is a high level Dayan Qigong meditation that uses various hand gestures to direct Qi and open the channels to form the Xiao Zhou Tian (Small Heavenly Cycle) in the body

Wild Goose Qi Gong 5215 Bills Rd, The Rivendell Yurt in Glenora I wildgooseqigongcentre.ca To register contact Lee Masters 250 748 4060 I rivendellrhythm@shaw.ca

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

Healing the Mother-Child Relationship This fear prevents many people from ever healing their relationship to their mother. So to counter this fear, make sure your witness truly understands that your intention is to heal and not to betray.

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n May we honour and celebrate our mothers, the women who gave us life.

To be a mother means to give unconditionally, and to do an infinite number of tasks that usually remain unacknowledged. So on Mother’s Day, we take time to appreciate the countless sacrifices our mothers made for us.

Your relationship with your mother is the first relationship of your life and tends to form a blueprint for all future relationships. This article is for those who do not feel completely at peace with their mothers, for those of you who have deep disappointment, grief, confusion, and anger, all mixed in with a lot of love for your mom. How can you heal the relationship from your end, even if your mother does not want to talk about the relationship at all, or has already passed away?

Can I get a Witness?

The first step in healing the mother-child relationship is to find someone you trust to talk to. This could be a friend or a counsellor. The wound you are trying to heal is relational, and therefore must be healed relationally, i.e. with another person as your witness.

Then, before approaching the hurt feelings you are carrying, it is vitally important to share with your friend or counsellor all that you love and appreciate about your mother.

There is a very common fear that talking about how you may have been hurt by your mother is a sort of betrayal.

Expect to encounter some younger parts of yourself Consider the point of view of a small child whose survival depends on mother’s care. If she is suddenly unavailable, or seems to not love us anymore, our very life is in danger. Needless to say, this is terrifying to a child and, depending on the severity of the situation, the feelings of fear and shame at being unlovable can be completely overwhelming. If mother reappears and repairs the relationship (by picking us up, making eye contact, or talking to us in a gentle voice), we can calm down and feel safe again.

However, if the rupture is not repaired, the overwhelming fear and shame are too unbearable to tolerate and so must be buried, repressed, or split off from consciousness.

It is as if a part of the child’s soul splits off in such a moment, and stays frozen in a state of terror until it is safe enough to actually experience those dreadful feelings. In doing the work of healing your relationship with your mother, you will likely discover some of these young, fragmented parts of yourself that have been suffering for years in a kind of timeless state of limbo. Once they have had the chance to be heard and seen and comforted, they can reintegrate into your psyche, clearing the path to wholehearted forgiveness.

over the last two steps to the act of forgiveness. However, true forgiveness is not possible when we are still harboring hurt feelings inside.

Only once those feelings have been expressed and witnessed are we free to forgive.

This stage of healing usually involves grieving the loss of the “perfect mother.”

You come to terms with the fact that your mother made mistakes and had flaws. You consider her own childhood wounding and the lack of support she had in raising you. You also remember her strengths and her qualities and recognize that she did the best she could. You can truly forgive her shortcomings

while still honoring your own pain and loss. You don’t need to pretend she was perfect in order to maintain your love for her. In fact, your love for her likely deepens at this point as you are better able to feel your sadness as well as your joy having gone through your healing journey.

When you do the difficult work of healing your relationship to your mother, you will love her more, love yourself more, and find that all other relationships in your life improve as well.

Swarn Leung, Registered Clinical Counsellor, works with individuals and couples in her Duncan office.

Forgiveness It is tempting to skip right

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Complimentary Yoga Sessions at Somalila Studio May 23 & 24

Earth Chants I am the Wind: that sows the wild fire I am the Wind: that seeds the wildflower I am the Fire: that enflames Earth’s skin I am the Fire: that embraces tree’s womb bursting her seed cones I am the Rain: that floods and ravages Earth’s elements I am the Rain: that fattens the land I am Cedar: crashing in the wild storm’s eye I am Cedar: my trunk a salmon road I am Grizzly: brute in my red dripping jaws I am Grizzly: delicately I eat salmon’s flesh and shit its rich oils among Earth’s roots I am Osprey: dashing salmon’s eye with my crushing claws I am Osprey: I lift the human eye to Heaven I am Honey Bee: I sting my lover to death I am the Wild Bumble Bee: storing up my comfort in tree’s heart I am Child: my foot in a wasp’s nest I am Child: my spirit song soars honey on my tongue I am the Woman: stricken in the arms of nuclear war, my skin peels burnt blossoms I am the Woman: my breasts suckle Child I am a Man: my spirit cries I am a Man: with flowers in my eyes I am the Virgin: my perfection ravished, my perfection ravished I am the Virgin: I carry the sacred seed I am dark and light I am Chaos I am the Gift I am radiant life

©Wendy Robison 2012/09 is inspired by a group of emerging young Cowichan Valley Arts Council artists; lives in a garden with a pussy cat; and writes beside a willow-shaded goldfish pond.

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

info@gopesto.com I www.gopesto.com

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W

Exploring The Melt Method

e live in exciting times where new science begins to echo and illuminate ancient knowledge. NYC based Sue Hitzmann is an accomplished bodyworker, researcher and creator of the “Melt Method”, a self help system that uses simple props to work deeply into the connective tissue of the body to rehydrate, cleanse and restore the body’s natural capacity for pain-free wellbeing. Hitzmann’s method is supported by a large body of relatively new science that shows that the connective tissue system provides a network for organ-to-organ communication that extends throughout the body, in a range far beyond what was previously evidenced by science a decade or so ago.

Back in the 90’s, I created a movement class where I explored various approaches to loosening up and finding well being in the body. One such set of hugely valuable exercises for me was from the book, “The body has its reasons: Anti-exercises and self-awareness” (Bertherat & Bernstein, 1977) which, for some of its exercises utilized balls of various sizes, along with the breath and subtle movement. When I stumbled on Sue Hitzmann’s book, “The Melt Method”

(Hitzmann, 2013) last year at Volume One Books, I felt an immediate resonance with her work and knew before I even left the bookstore that I would study with her.

Hitzmann’s work appeals to my own enduring passion to understand how the body communicates within itself across multiple systems and how we can use this knowledge to support our body’s well being. I have discovered that the Melt Method integrates beautifully with Yoga.

My own studio, a sanctuary where I offer classes in yoga and the Melt Method is on Stamps Road in what a friend has coined ‘”The Lakes District’” , between Duncan and Maple Bay, just off Lakes Road where it meets with Herd Road. Try a complimentary class in Melt Method or yoga during Somalila Weekend Open House, May 23rd and 24th, 1584 Stamps Road, Duncan.

For more information call 250-597-7875 www.somalila.com.

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

Somae Osler has an MA in Education and is a registered yoga teacher and Melt Method Instructor.

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EYE ON Shawnigan

Explore the ancient forest of Shawnigan Lake. Stop for a coffee, meal or tasty treat.

Fresh, local &/organically sourced ingredients.

Serving Breakfast, Lunch & Dinner.

A Place To Breathe Just For You

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icola Cusi has been teaching Yoga for over 20 years. After teaching classes from her home, in basement rec rooms and community centres she had decided to fulfil her long time dream to open her own studio dedicated to Yoga and related activities. “A place where like minded community meets and where practitioners are not distracted by noise or smells of other activities around them.” Nicola Cusi smiles.

Some Yoga Studios focus on one particular Yoga practice targeted to a specific audience.

KaliYoga offers daily Yoga for every body!

Kali Yoga in Shawnigan Lake is a dream come true for many that live here.

“My main focus at KaliYoga is to make Yoga available to every body, no matter what age, health or fitness level. As long as you breath, you can do Yoga!

We offer gentle beginners, restorative and Yin Yoga, Hatha Yoga for all levels, back care and rehabilitation, Dynamic Flow Yoga and Acrobatic Yoga - something to challenge every body!” shares Nicola “In my mind what make Yoga so unique is that it can be

1845 Renfrew Road (250) 743-5515

www.gathersl.com

adjusted to every level. While most other sports or physical activities can be only done with a certain fitness level, Yoga can be always adapted to everybody’s needs. Even recovering from injuries and disease can be greatly helped with a regular practice.

2750 Shawnigan Lake Road TAKE OUT - (250) 743-1669 www.shawnigansushi.blogspot.ca

Also out of this community studio on Shawnigan Lake Road, KaliYoga hosts workshops in breathing, relaxation, meditation, partner Yoga, posture awareness and many other related classes.

“I like to see myself not so much as a teacher but like a farmer sowing seeds. Regular practice nurtures that seed and we can see the plant evolve in everyday life. I can only plant that seed, everybody is responsible for that nurturing process themselves and we all develop a different way how to go about it.

The poses become Yoga when they change our perception, our relationships, when they change our lives.”

KaliYoga: Nicola Cusi Yoga Studio 2721 Shawnigan Lake Rd. For more info visit www.kaliyoga.ca or call 250 466 0006.

TRY OUR BURGERS!

Enjoy 2 for 1 Appetizers with this page. *Not valid with other offers.

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OVER 2 DOZEN TO CHOOSE FROM: • FISH • CHICKEN Open Daily from 11 AM • VEGGIE Licensed • GROUND CHUCK UK Candy, fish and chips, burgers PLUS A PILE OF and more! Check them out on FB! FIXIN’S TO ADD ON. 2740 Dundas Road In the Purple Building 250 929-8886 www.villagechippery.com

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FRONTYARD FARMING

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ell, here I am -- in my front yard once again, wondering at what miracles will emerge this year from my garden. Already the beds are looking good. My purple sprouting broccoli, planted last fall, is going to be ready soon for harvest; self seeded baby greens like mustard, lettuce, kale, arugula are ready for grazing.

Bulb babies are poking up their heads after their winter sleep, delicate blue perennial flowers are adorning the entire garden and last year’s kale plants are preparing to flower. Last year was the first time I planted garlic and onions all throughout my strawberry beds and I’m happy

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to say they did well.

The scapes can soon be turned into pesto and the tops of the onions are a great addition to our salads.

My goal to make more soil last fall was a brilliant success. All my garden waste, a couple van loads of leaves, garden scraps, coffee grinds, seaweed and whatever else I could lay my hands on went into two large piles layered and positioned strategically in the chicken coop where my four chickens could work their magic. After a whole winter of scratching and pecking, the piles of refuge have been transformed into mountains of black gold, teaming with worms and micro-whatevers -- the stuff

It’s Tomato Growing Time!

t’s too bad these pages don’t have a scratch-and-sniff feature.

If they did, you’d be able to huff that warm, oxygen-rich smell of tomato plant leaves. I inhale that incredible smell every time I peek into one of our seedling greenhouses, where thousands of infant tomato plants reach up to bask in the May sunshine.

If you haven’t sniffed a tomato plant yet this year, promise me you’ll make the time to stop and smell the foliage next time you come across a tomato plant at the

farmers market or nursery. Gently brush the plant’s leaves, then lean in and inhale. You’ll find that many varieties smell slightly different: some are citrusy, others earthy.

For a truly decadent smelling experience, mark Sunday, May 18 on your calendar. You’re also welcome to sniff tomato plants at our Duncan Farmers Market booth throughout May and early June. In addition to great smelling, healthy plants, we’re happy to share growing tips and tricks.

that makes your garden grow.

Even though I have a very busy work schedule, I always find time to garden. It is my therapy, my passion and my recreation.

Whether I’m digging, planting, seeding, weeding or harvesting it always makes me happy.

The added bonus of front yard farming of course is that you get to meet your neighbours and connect with the people passing by. Each conversation is unique and seems significant.

foods and green lawns became a symbol of affluence and wealth. Raising chickens and growing your own food became a symbol of poverty. Here in the Cowichan Valley however it’s the opposite. Farmers are heros.

Urban gardening is the rage and growing your own food is applauded and encouraged. In our community wealth is not measured by money but rather by the quality of one’s soil and the abundance of one’s bees and worms.

It’s a sad thing but many people today have lost their connection with food. It is consumed not so much for nourishment but rather for the purpose of not feeling hungry. This consumption of pretend food started after the war, when white sugar, processed

Happy spring planting to all.

Blessings on your gardens!

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.

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.

Many tomato plants are vines (“indeterminate”), so here’s a quick tip on transplanting vining tomato plants: lay each tomato in its place horizontally

Nicolette Genier is the incredibly happy co owner of the Community Farm Store.

Makaria Farm’s 6th Annual Organic Tomato Plant Sale Sunday, May 18, 10am-1pm Makaria Farm, 4715 Bench Rd, Cowichan Station)

Submitted by Heather McLeod of Makaria Farm.

Only top most leaf cluster is kept. Stem will straighten out and early fruit will begin forming at ground level without wasting stem growing room.

Bury stem close to surface air and warmth using soil from the warm top layer bed surrounding garden bed. original root ball

New roots and root hairs will form enabling plant to absorb more moisture and nutrients.

Remove leaf and strip stem

Stripped stem will now become extra root trunk. add 1” compost in bottom of trench

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

Shawnigan Lake Adventure 2014: Enjoy Yourself to Help Care for Others

Explore an Urban Food Forest

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magine a place where you are surrounded by fruit trees laden with delicious apples, pears, plums, and figs, all of which are at your fingertips. A kaleidoscope of berries surrounds you at each turn, as you fill your pockets with juicy currents, raspberries, blueberries and saskatoons. The scent of lavender, rosemary, thyme, and sage reignite memories of warm summer’s past. At each turn native plants of the Pacific Northwest, including salal, oregon grape, thimbleberry, and nootka rose, greet you. In this magical place you can solve the mysteries of sea-buckthorn, goji, goumi and haskap berries, species rarely ever seen.

This is a place where community and environment meet; a place where children, families, and elders gather to enjoy the wonders of friendship, community and nature. Both edible garden tours and teachings of medicinal herbs are regular occurrences here, and much of the forest’s bounty is donated to local emergency food suppliers. Demonstrative signage guides you through this permaculture design based area, as you open your heart to the wonders

of sustainable, edible food forestry.

Imagine if this spectacular place was right in your back yard...

Located in the heart of Duncan, Cowichan Green Community’s Urban Food Forest will be an inspiring community demonstration site displaying the benefits of urban agriculture. Made possible by the Employment Program of British Columbia, funded by the Government of Canada and the Province of British Columbia, this project will highlight the potential for transforming commercial urban sites into fruitful growing spaces, and will offer a handbook to share those ideas with others. Be sure to keep your eye to the sky and your ear to the earth for the sights and sounds of spring coming from the Food Forest.

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very day, people in your community — perhaps even people you know — struggle to serve as primary caregivers for loved ones, often without any support to help them succeed.

Fortunately, you can change their lives for the better simply by participating in this year’s Shawnigan Lake Adventure, one of the most fun and important annual fundraising events on the Cowichan calendar.

Now in its tenth year, the Shawnigan Lake Adventure is the primary fundraiser for the non-profit Cowichan Family

Caregivers Support Society, which is dedicated to improving the quality of life for local family caregivers. This year’s activities take place Sunday, June 1 at the Shawnigan Lake Community Centre.

The Shawnigan Lake Adventure, which began as the Shawnigan Lake Walk, now gives participants the option of walking, biking, kayaking, or geocaching for a good cause.

Open to individuals and family members of all ages and abilities, this year’s Adventure features new cycling and walking routes, peaceful lake paddles, and the free use of GPS units for familyfriendly geocaching. Participants will also be treated to superb entertainment, vegetarian food, foot baths, massages, and 10th anniversary birthday cake.

Make a difference. Sign up today. For details, visit www. shawniganlakeadventure.com.

Tom Downey is a writer who lives and works in Maple Bay.

If you are interested in becoming involved in something remarkable, each Wednesday from 3:30-5:30 we will be hosting our volunteer Work Party Wednesdays at The Station (360 Duncan Street), the site of CGC’s new Urban Food Forest! For more information, contact katie@ cowichangreencommunity.org

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TIME TO PLANT! www.dinternursery.ca

Great selection of quality plants, your ONE STOP for all gardening needs.

May 9 • 4:30pm to 6pm KIDS ONLY! Make a Hanging Basket or Planter For Mom

Create a lovely Mother’s Day Basket Parents may watch! $5.00 donation to Somenos Transition House.

May 17 & 24• 10am Cowichan Valley Master Gardeners

MASTER GARDENING CLINIC

Questions for this year’s garden plan? Bring your gardening questions for a detailed explanation.

Serving local gardeners since 1973

250 748 2023

5km South of Duncan on Hwy 1

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The Healthiest Plants to Grow

f you were fortunate enough to have been raised in a home that had a vegetable garden then you will need no persuasion to appreciate the many virtues of growing your own food.

Childhood memories include shelling fresh snap peas and sneaking a handful now and then to spending leisurely time harvesting ripe red raspberries to top on a bowl of ice cream.

Outstanding flavor is indeed at the top of the chart when it comes to the benefits of growing food.

There is a real buzz regarding the health benefits that fruits and vegetables contain. Dark green leafy vegetables and rich colored juicy fruit seems to ooze the delicious qualities that help create good health. In order for you to make certain that your vegetables and fruit has the most nutritional value make certain that you follow these simple but essential growing requirements.

Soil quality is the factor of upmost importance to guarantee optimum vigour.

Healthy soil provides support and nutrition for plants and retains moisture for the roots to nurture stems, fruits and flowers. The best soils for the vegetable garden have slightly acidic pH values between 6 and 6.8. The addition of manures and organic matter is referred to as soil amendments. Soil amendments optimize potential yields and quality. The goal in soil management is to increase the organic content four to five per cent over a period of years. This is not a large percentage but all that is needed.

over. Most vegetables need an average of 6 hours of sunlight.

Some plants such as lettuce, peas, carrots, and kale are able to grow fine with roughly 6 hours of Trees and Shrubs sunlight.

There are 1.Apple – Anti-oxidants, Vitamin C other crops 2. Fig – Fiber, Vit. B6, Copper, Potassium which 3.Blueberry – Vit. K, Manganese, Vit. C require at 4.Blackberry (Thornless) - Vit K, Tissue, least 8 hours Alertness of direct 5.Grape – Vit C, K, Immune system, Bones sunlight per 6. Sea buckthorn – Vit C, Protein, Skin, day. These Antioxidants include prevent the evening temperatures tomatoes, peppers, from falling belong 12c. eggplants and squash.

As well as long light hours these crops benefit Do not let your vegetables dry out in the garden. They must from increased daily remain irrigated to retain a good temperatures. You may fresh taste. If vegetables go want to consider some without water for an extended type of cover to retain time they often acquire a bitter daily temperatures and

Vegetables 1. Broccoli/Kale – Iron, Vit. A,C,K, Antioxidants, Calcium 2. Beets – folate, manganese, potassium, copper 3. Cauliflower/Brussel Sprouts – Vitamin C,K,B6, Proteins, Omega 3 4. Garlic – Manganese, Vit. C B6, Copper 5. Greens – Vitamin A,C,E,K, Fiber, Protein 6. Spinach – Vitamin A,B2,C,K Manganese 7. Tomatoes – Vitamin A,C,K, Biotin, Copper,

Potassium

Light is one of the most significant elements when growing vegetables. This is also something that we often have little control

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

taste. Vegetables therefore are not drought tolerant.

Research has determined that the list of plants provided are rich in many elements that promote good health. Make certain to seek them out whether you choose to grow these plants or simple add them to your daily diet. Whenever possible eat your fruits and vegetables as soon as being harvested. Eat raw or cook quickly by steaming or using a

microwave.

I am looking forward to speaking at the Cowichan Valley Garden Club Flower Show & Plant Sale, Saturday May 10th, 10 – 2:00 pm. Duncan United Church, 246 Ingram Street.

Jeff de Jong Horticulturist and Landscape Designer Host of Gardening 101 on C-FAX1070AM

COWICHAN VALLEY GARDEN FAIR

Saturday, May 3 10am-2pm

Thousands of rhododendrons & plants to buy directly from Island growers!

www.CowichanValleyGardenFair.com Mellor Hall, Cowichan Exhibition

10am - 2pm FREE Admission

Cowichan Valley Garden Fair the Place for Great Plants

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or the past two decades the local Rhododendron Society in Duncan has held an annual plant sale in the Cowichan Valley featuring rhododendrons and companion plants. Due to increased buying and public interest the club decided three years ago to establish the Cowichan Valley Garden Fair which now includes garden equipment, soils, irrigation items and other garden related vendors along with a larger number of Island rhododendron growers.

This year’s sale on May 3 at the Cowichan Exhibition will include plants from at least 11 growers and island nurseries and is one of the few opportunities to buy plants directly from the grower at reasonable prices.

As well, there are many experienced rhodoholics that

can advise on how to plant and take care of your new rhodos and other plants. There will also be a truss (large flower head) exhibition showcasing some of the spectacular rhododendrons now growing in our Valley along with at least 15 other vendors and nonprofit groups. This year’s gold sponsors include Island Tractor featuring Stihl power products and Home Hardware with many useful garden and home improvement supplies.

With more than 19,000 different rhodo hybrids now registered and more than 600 rhododendron species (naturally occurring) from the wild there are more than enough choices for that new rhodo. You’ll even see the local rhodo that grows in the Cowichan Valley – Rhododendron macrophyllum.

A rhododendron is also a perfect Mother’s Day gift that gives back for decades.

Submitted by Bill Dumont.

Ongoing Knitting and Weaving Workshops. Drop In and See!

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

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We wouldn’t be us; if it weren’t for them…Mom’s the Word.

By Jen Coyle

Mother’s Day – Sun, May 11th, 2014. t’s a universal emotion; the one that can tenderize any hard-shelled individual and turn their centers into soft and squishy puddles of love. A mother has the ability to bring out the best in her children and it’s easy to see why Mothers all over the world are shown abundant appreciation on a day just for them!

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In thinking of your Mother, our merchants in downtown Duncan have countless items and services to choose from, when thinking of that perfect gift.

A day of Pampering is always high on our list of giving, as we all know most Image Jen Coyle

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Moms generally don’t prioritize such indulgences. A Spa treatment at the Ginger Room or Matisse Day Spa on Craig Street is guaranteed to relax any hard working lady. And who can resist an appointment at one of our many Salons in the downtown? Don’t forget about the ones tucked away: Element Hair and Esthetics, in the Whittome Mall, between Island Bagel and Whittome Travel, on Station Street; O’Hairs at the Loft, located upstairs above the Tin Cup on Canada Avenue; and Loucas’ Hair Design, just three houses up from the Centennial Spray Park entrance, at the end of Second Street. All of our lovely downtown stylists would be happy to pencil your mother in for a delightful colour, custom trim or even a decadent manicure.

For the new or soon-to-be Mom, the Matrea Centre in the historic brick building on the corner of Craig and Kenneth Street, hosts a group of related professionals and practitioners dedicated to the well-being of Moms, family and community.

Browse their exquisite Matrea Mercantile Mama & Baby Boutique for all the best in gifts and practicality, or relax, rejuvenate and unwind in Salon Lalita their elegant fullservice salon on the ground floor of the building.

Image Jen Coyle

If you want to surprise with an item of functionality, Pots and Paraphernalia, as their name suggests, offer products for your kitchen (such as Fiesta Ware and Le Creuset), Home Décor, Bedding and Bath. While out at the Power Center, located just off the intersection at Beverly Street and Canada Ave, why not treat your Mom to a real fruit smoothie, with a homemade sandwich or wrap, or have her indulge in a delicate quiche of the day, at Power Lunch, while she considers updating her old mobile at Cowichan Sound and Cellular?

Thinking outside of the box, perhaps after a day of beauty, you might consider booking an appointment for a studio session or an outdoor shoot, to have a professional family portrait done with Kris Kann at Peacock’s Photo, located in the plaza with Coffee on the Moon on Canada Avenue.

K e l s w t i s t t u a t

C s f & a t a i y a a t o j R w d l s e w

Image Jen Coyle

• NEW • Clarisonic Skin Brush

• Filler • Botox™ • Latisse™ • Photofacials • Hair Removal • Spray Tanning • Medical Microdermabrasion • Skin Tightening and Rejuvenation Kindness, honesty, work ethic, thinking of others, laughter and appreciation of small things, come to mind when I think of just some of the lessons my own Mom instilled in us. And my siblings and I would insist, that we are all where we are today, because of her love, her unfailing belief in our abilities and the sacrifices she’s made throughout our lives.

Celebrating with flowers may seem a little too traditional for some; however, Leaf & Petal’s floral designers are trained in the latest techniques in modern floral artistry. Each arrangement is a tailor made design and you will find ever changing assortments of potted tropical and blooming plants, such as the extraordinary selection of orchids, pottery, vases, jewelry and Island-made Rogers’ Chocolates. And what thoughts of indulgence doesn’t lead to a potential longing for that delicate, satiny item, created to enhance the beauty and style women are looking for, yet

combines the durability and luxurious comfort our wallets desire? If you are searching for a hard-to-find size, or need that one-on-one service, then the staff at Sheer Essentials Lingerie and Swimwear, are here to help you. They offer Vancouver Island’s largest selection of sizes and certified on-hand fitters, so you can be sure to find the custom product you need.

Sentimental and touching gifts can additionally be found wandering through Wishes Gifts & Book Store on Station Street and at Magnolia on Jubilee Street, catering to the spirit of inspiration, beliefs and dreams.

Complimentary Consultation 250 746 6512

WWW.VIVAMEDICALAESTHETICS.COM

#4 -177 FOURTH ST, DUNCAN

So as you can see, downtown Duncan specializes in copious varieties of well thought out gift giving for such an endearing time of the year.

The Merchants of Downtown Duncan would like to wish all of the Mom’s out there, a very Enjoyable Mother’s Day!

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Why I Moved To Duncan Cowichan Intercultural Society

I NOW CARRYING

SELECT BIKES ON SALE ALL MAY! 360 Duncan St I Mon-Sat 10-5:30pm I t 250 597 0097 I e:info@cycletherapy.ca I www.cycletherapy.ca

Organic Mother’s Day Brunch SUN May 12 8:30am - 1:30pm Special Treat For Mom with Brunch!

met my husband Derek walking the Camino De Santiago in Spain. We knew we could not live in Germany as he does not speak German. So I decided to brush up on my English skills and come to live with him in Vancouver.

Every weekend we would take our little VW Westfalia to explore the beautiful landscape and the outdoors. One day we said it would be great if we could have that every day without driving. So we took the VW and travelled across Canada to Quebec and back, trying to find a place to live. There were places we did not like that much, but sometimes I was enthusiastic and would say “Uh, oh, I could live here! Look at these mountains!

Look at the serene setting!”

In response, my husband would say “Yes, it’s great here, but you don’t want to live here in winter.

Believe me, it’s cold and it’s no fun to have snow for months at a time” We returned to Vancouver. One weekend on our way to Tofino, we drove through the Cowichan Valley. “What a beautiful place and it’s even called The Warmland!”

We moved here four years ago and still enjoy being here.

When I was a child we used to have a garden at home, which means in summer we would have

an abundance of cucumbers. This was an easy way for my mum to make lunch during the hot summer months. When I lived in Germany I kept making this soup during the summer.

When I came to Canada six years ago I somehow forgot about the soup, probably because I was curious about the food here. But one day we had a friend from Germany over and for lunch she made the soup! Looks like her parents also had a garden!

This soup tastes even better in Canada than in Germany! Must be the salmon !

Submitted by Simone Sulk

Cucumber Salmon Soup Amount

2 1/2 Litre 1 Sprig 2 Tablespoons 6 Slices

Ingredients

Cucumbers Chicken Broth Dill Sour Cream Salmon, raw

Method:

Boil two cucumbers (peeled and cut in big chunks) in ½ a litre chicken broth for 7-10 minutes.

Add sour cream and chopped dill, blend.

At the end add a few thin slices of raw salmon, do not boil again! The salmon will be done by the time you serve the soup.

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Downtown Duncan Salutes Women in Business!

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omen start businesses at higher rates than men and Anyes de Laat from Soul Comfort in Downtown Duncan is just one example of our many outstanding entrepreneurial women!

Women’s reasons for choosing to start a business are often very distinct from that of a man’s. Some are seeking greater independence, more challenges and selffulfillment; others are looking for financial opportunity or simply have a passion to succeed! Women who start their own businesses are often in search of more control over their work-family balance and flexible hours.

Anyes may have been forced to give up her dream of becoming a doctor 33 years ago, but this enterprising woman has found a unique way to help patients and make a valuable contribution to the field of medicine.

When Anyes’ journey to medical school was interrupted in 1981 by a pregnancy, she drew on the sewing and patternmaking skills her mother taught her to produce sheepskin baby booties. “I started out literally piece by piece,” she says, “one pair of booties at a time.”

At first, Anyes was making products only from sheepskin but in 1998, her main supplier told her they had sold all their skins to China and there weren’t any left to sell to her. While researching other suppliers Anyes came across a wool fabric she thought would be suitable. Anyes

discovered that untapped market when she learned that sheepskin pads can alleviate bedsores and that the medical system spends $1.1 billion a year on bedsore treatment.

She launched her medical line of sheepskin overlays across North America and a line of pet products as well.

The cycle continues as Anyes now reports that the medical side of her business now predominates her energy and focus.

Starting out as a newlywed with two stepchildren, a new baby and no business background Anyes has had two more children, all of them raised along with the business!

Do drop by 190 Fourth Street and view these fabulous products, handmade with the finest materials and care and look for the Mother’s Day specials! Just one of our many business women making a difference in Downtown Duncan!

Excerpts from the Women’s Enterprise Centre publication “New Pioneers: Stories of 100 BC Women Entrepreneurs”

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How to Responsibly Dispose of Leftover Paint

ost of us can relate to this scenario: You decide to paint your living room walls. You head out to the nearest home renovation fix-it store to pick up a gallon or two.

Once the walls are dry and your furniture is back where it belongs you realize that you have Âź can of paint left.

Like most of us, you probably hammer the lid back on, stash the can in the shed or basement, vowing to use it for

chips or a DIY project, then promptly forget about it.

If you have found that you have a few half empty cans lying around and want to get rid of them you’ll probably be thrilled to know that you can recycle both the cans and the paint for FREE! At Island Return It, we can safely recycle household paint, textured paint, primers and sealers. Deck and floor coating, varnishes even

paint aerosols through a stewardship managed by Product Care. There are a few things to keep in mind when recycling paint: 1) All paint must be in original cans with labels intact and lids sealed.

2) Products must not be mixed together.

3) Brushes, rags and rollers are not accepted.

Once the paint products leave our recycling centre it gets recycled into new paint though companies like Loop from Ontario and Eco-Peinture from Quebec.

Recycling paint helps keep it from leaching into the environment or finding its way into rivers and streams.

If your paint is still plentiful it

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might be eligible for the paint exchange program*. Anyone is welcome to come in, have a look at the paint rack and if they see something that they could use they are welcome to take it after signing a waiver.

Come in and ask us about the exchange program today! *Product Care cannot guarantee the product quality of the leftover paint available in the exchange program.

Locations where you can recycle paint: * Not all locations have the Paint Exchange programs.

Island Return It Recycling Centre Duncan on Norcross Rd Bings Creek Solid Waste Management Complex on Drinkwater Rd Peerless Road Recycling Dropoff Depot Salt Spring Island Recycling on Rainbow Rd Sophy Roberge is the Marketing Manager for Island Return It Recycling Centres.

Interior Design And Senior Living Sharlene Ionescu is the Principal and Owner of Aesthetic Concept.

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he seniors’ population is increasing and today’s golden agers are healthier and more active than ever.

Because elders want to remain independent as long as possible, it is very important to adapt their home to meet all of their mobility needs, balance, sight and hearing challenges.

Whether living in a home, an apartment or a room, a retired person would be wise to invest in interior design services because: A living space should be in full compliance with relevant building codes and the overall design must address the issues of gerontology and be sensitive to the unique needs of the aging process.

Working with a Certified Interior Designer, a professional qualified by education and experience, the design of your home will also improve your quality of life and protect your health, your safety and your

welfare.

Your belongings would be integrated into the design and you would receive help in selecting design features, finishes, furniture, fabrics, window treatments and more.

Space planning and placement of lighting, art and accessories will be done in a manner that best meets seniors’ needs.

Your home environment should be a therapeutic tool to create security, promote self-esteem and engage the senses such as: · Touch through textures to stimulate your memory · Sight by avoiding busy patterns that can create frustration and confusion · Smell with familiar and pleasant scents that serve as calming aromatherapy · Taste using primary colours to enhance your appetite Your home should not be a constant reminder of your physical or cognitive limitations.

Its design should reflect your lifestyles, attitudes, expectations and habits and its décor should reflect your tastes and interests.

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

250-743-4011

www.kwdoorsandwindows.com Heritage Homes a Specialtyom

Visit www.aestheticc.com for information on our Mother’s Day special.

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Green Living

Mattress & Pillow Talk

spring or foundation. Good time to flip your mattress as well!

attress and pillow cleaning is something that is often overlooked but considering we spend approximately one third of our time in our beds it makes sense to take good care of them.

Mattresses really don’t like water, for stains on you can spot clean and dab dry. It’s good to use an enzyme based cleaner and if you’re having trouble finding one, check your local pet supply store and ask which enzyme cleaner they recommend for customers with puppy or cat urine messes. These enzyme cleaners will breakdown any organic matter. You can use this on any stain but for blood stains use 3% hydrogen peroxide, the sooner the better, let it bubble and fizz and then it dab off.

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A decent mattress is somewhat of an investment financially so it makes sense to protect it with a mattress cover. Natural fiber is best, not only for our health but also to help with dampness from sweating in our sleep. My pick is a wool mattress cover, they’re not machine washable but you can hang it on a clothesline in the sunshine to air it out and that’s the beauty of wool, the natural lanolin makes it self cleaning.

Despite a good mattress cover you still need to clean your mattress occasionally, once/ month is recommended.

Vacuuming is the easiest method to control dust mites and other debris. Follow this recipe before vacuuming, 1 cup baking soda, 1 cup borax, 6 drops lavender essential oil. Put the mixture in a mason jar and poke holes in the metal lid to make a shaker.

Sprinkle evenly all over the mattress and let sit for 30 mins, before vacuuming, this will help absorb and control orders.

Remember to treat and vacuum both sides as well as the box

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, Reflexology

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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

For pillow cleaning check the

care instructions care tag. Most down and fiberfill pillows can be washed in your washer with warm water on the gentle cycle and opt for an extra cold water rinse. Toss them in the dryer on warm heat, stopping frequently to rotate and fluff. For foam pillows the covers can usually be removed and washed according to the care instructions and follow the mattress routine above for the pillow.

Rest well and sleep tight!

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

Take A Hike for Hospice May 6

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oin us for the 6th Annual Hike for Hospice in support of Cowichan Valley Hospice on Sunday, May 4, 2014 from 10am – 1pm.

Bring your family, bring your friends, bring your leashed dog and celebrate spring with a gentle 2 or 4 km hike through the trails at the picturesque Providence Farm.

Gather pledges or host your own community fundraiser to help raise much needed funds to continue delivering compassionate hospice care to Cowichan families.

Hike begins at 10:30am sharp and includes a barbecue lunch, entertainment and a relaxing foot treatment.

To register please go to our website: www.cowichanvalleyhospice. org and click the Hike Register Now button For hike info please contact Dee Pope at events.cvhs@ shaw.ca or 250.701.4242

Home and Living

Cowichan Valley Hospice provides emotional one-toone or group support and caring services to those diagnosed with an advancing illness, their families, and anyone experiencing the loss of a loved one. Open to all Cowichan families, we also have an open access education and resource library. Hospice services are provided free of charge by skilled and trained volunteers throughout the Cowichan region, from the Malahat to Ladysmith.

For more information about Cowichan Valley Hospice contact: Jennifer Yee Fairweather jennifer.cvhs@shaw.ca or 250.701.4242

The Paul Wainwright Band Plays For St Peters In an ongoing campaign to repair, restore, and preserve one of the Cowichan Valley’s oldest heritage buildings, St Peter’s of Quamichan Lake, a fundraising gala featuring saxman Paul Wainwright will be held. Playing a blend of original music plus smooth jazz and pop favourites they are always a hit with the crowd. St Peter’s was created before BC joined Confederation and many of the those buried in the church’s cemetery are the founders and their descendants.

Last month, the crypt beneath the old wooden church was completely

emptied so that construction workers can start today beneath the building. This means that our vision to restore St Peter’s historic building will truly have begun in earnest. Fundraising Gala Dinner and Dance with Silent Auction May 31, 5:30 pm, Duncan Meadows Country Club. Tickets $100 250 746 6262

Fundraiser For The Family Of Miles Phillips And The Cowichan Bio-Diesel Co-Op Many in our community are aware of the recent unexpected death of active community member Miles Phillips. Philips, who was the financial manager of Cowichan Energy Alternatives and the Cowichan Bio-Diesel Co-op, has left behind a wife and two daughters now coping with grief and in serious financial difficulties. This was in the wake of a series of events, including multiple robberies and forced pump closures, that have befallen the CB-DC this past year. In the

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spirit of giving, there will be a community dance event taking place May 31st at the HUB in Cowichan Station, 5pm-11pm.

There will live music from awesome dance band Bijoux du Bayou, Paradigm Shifters, the Twisted Vine String Band and more, a silent auction, food, beverages and kids activities. Proceeds will be split between the family of Miles Phillips, and the Cowichan Bio-Diesel Co-op. It’s not every community that is blessed with its own locally produced, sustainable biofuel service as we are here in Cowichan. Let’s keep our Co-op going, and providing the essential service it does, and help out a struggling family at the same time.

May 31, 5-11pm, The HUB, Cowichan Station, 2375 Koksilah Rd Suggested donation $25 at the door, but no one will be turned away for lack of funds or for donating more!

COWICHAN COMPOST LEARN ABOUT BOKASHI CALL FOR FREE INFORMATION SESSION!

BOKASHI COMPOST KITS Originating from Japan, Bokashi supplies beneficial bacteria that assists fermentation to quickly speed the composting process. All you have to is sprinkle!

BOKASHI CAN TO ORDER • Compost Meat and Dairy 250 732 3553 • Eliminate nasty smells and bugs 250 216 5652 • Eliminate your compost pile Use with Municipal Compost to reduce smell and flies.

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Low Tide Day in Cowichan Bay

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hat are the different kinds of clams in the mud at the beach? What species of fish and other creatures live in the eelgrass just off shore?

How much junk and trash has accumulated along the shore in the past year? The answers to these and other questions, along with lunch, music and art can be found at Low Tide Day 2014 on Saturday, May 17 in Cowichan Bay. Low Tide Day is an event for children of all ages.

International Low Tide Day began in 1995 with an “Eco Fayre” in Brighton, England, celebrating “One tide on one day around the world. In 1999 Cowichan Bay became the first Canadian community to join and the event has been held every May since then, sponsored by the Cowichan Land Trust, the Cowichan Valley Naturalists, the Cowichan Bay Improvement Association, and Cowichan Tribes, with support from many local groups and businesses.

The event is always held on the Saturday in May with the lowest daytime tide. This year Low Tide Day falls on the May long weekend for the first time in the history of the event, so extra activities are planned.

• 9:30am Check in at Kil-pah-las beach for the Community Beach Cleanup.

• 10am Check in at Hecate

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Park for the free guided clean up by Kayak. Visit www. cowichanestuary.ca for more information.

• 11:30am Lunch, music, and displays at Kil-pah-las Beach at the east end of Cowichan Bay Village.

• 12:30pm Kil-pah-las Beach seine with volunteer biologists from the Department of Fisheries and Oceans.

• 1pm Kil-pah-las Critter Count.

A quadrat survey of life in the mud at Kil-pah-las beach, designed by Dr. Bill Austin.

• 2pm to 5pm Art in Hecate Park and activities at the Cowichan Estuary Nature Centre After being identified and studied, all animals are returned to the sea with a wild story to tell their friends.

Low Tide Day is not just science and work. This is a family-friendly community event for everyone. Come for a joyful celebration of the fragile intertidal environment, downstream from all our homes and businesses.

For more information, visit www. cowichanestuary.ca or call John at 250-746-6141.

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

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Family Friendly Annual Wooden Boat Festival at Maple Bay Marina

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aple Bay Marina will host the 19th Annual Wooden Boat Festival over the May holiday weekend. Wooden boats have a long standing history on the West Coast.

The people that dedicate their time and hard work to keep them in shape, or restore them, tie us to our maritime heritage. The event pays homage to this tradition; and also celebrates the owners who share a passion for wooden boats. Popularized by enthusiasts who honour this industry, the event is not limited to glimpses of the past but also features modern wooden vessels. Display vessels will include converted work boats, sailboats, rowboats, kayaks, classic Monks and Chris Crafts.

The public is encouraged to join the festivities and vote for their favourite boat; admission is FREE on Saturday May 17th and Sunday May 18th. Visitors will enjoy added attractions which include a pool with model boat display and demonstrations, live music and local arts & crafts for sale. Meet the artists and witness their art taking shape!

Artists expected to attend this year include renowned painters, Jeffrey Birkin and Carol Borrett, glassworks

by Laura Filgate of FM Kilnworks, marine artist, Michael Dean, Westcoast Chimes, photo-art by Neil Fatin, stained glass art by Connie Kaziechko and Coast Sailish carvings by Delbert Peter and knitting by Joanne Edwards. In addition, take

time to explore the wide variety of products made available by other vendors.

“I really enjoy learning each boat’s history and meeting the owners; such fascinating stories,” says Carol Messier, the event coordinator. “I’m also excited to see the remote control modellers back and all the artists who will be in attendance at this year’s festival.”

Maple Bay Marina is located 10 minutes east of Duncan, British Columbia, Canada.

It provides moorage and recreational boating services year round. The marina receives daily sea plane service between downtown Vancouver and the Vancouver Airport.

Maple Bay Marina 19th Annual Wooden Boat Festival: public welcome and vendor displays featured May 17th and 18th, 2014. Contact: Maple Bay Marina, 6145 Genoa Bay Road, Duncan, Phone 250.746.8482, email: info@ maplebaymarina.com or visit www.maplebaymarina.com.

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Canada’s Reno Rebate Inc. continues to spread the word about government rebates for new-home purchases, owner built homes and substantial renovations to existing homes during the tenure of the HST throughout Ontario and British Columbia. Happy clients are receiving up to $42,500, which is the upper limit a homeowner can receive for a project.

Canada’s Reno Rebate Inc. has already helped homeowners apply for rebates totaling over $4 million through our Victoria office alone. With new offices in Vancouver and Toronto the number of homeowners we are helping is growing exponentially.

“There is a misconception that if your home is worth more than $450,000, you are not entitled to any government rebates, but this is just not true,” says Sean.

Do I qualify has to be the most frequently asked question my staff get say’s Sean Leitenberg, Manager of the Victoria Office.

Each renovation or new build is not exactly the same so we have to determine that the best we can on a case-by-case basis.

There are definitely some clear-cut rules though. There is a deadline of 2 years from the time you completed your major renovation or new build to apply though there are a couple exceptions to that rule too.

To qualify for a major renovation you must do substantial work to the majority of the inside of your home. If your work was limited to a small portion of your home, such as a bathroom or kitchen, or you just painted or put down new floors, you would not qualify for this rebate. The

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c a m l t C

end result of your renovation should be that your home or condo is like a new home.

When it comes to the expenses incurred on the outside of your home, you can only claim these amounts if you have first met the requirements on the inside of your home.

If you purchased a new home or condo for yourself, the builder has probably claimed the rebate. If you purchased that property as an investment rental property, the builder could not claim the rebate and as the owner of that condo or home you may be entitled to a rental rebate for as much as $42,500 once you have signed a lease with your tenants.

If your home is worth more than $450,000, you are not entitled to a federal rebate; however, you may be entitled to a provincial rebate if a portion of the construction took place during the term of HST. If your home is worth less than $450,000 you are entitled to both a federal rebate as well as a provincial rebate for the portion spent during the period of HST. A new home built or renovated for your self, or as a family members’ primary place of residence qualifies if it was completed within the last 2 years. If the home’s value is more than $450,000 then you are only entitled to a rebate for money spent between July 1, 2010 and March 31, 2013.

Canada’s Reno Rebate has representatives throughout British Columbia and Ontario who are happy to help clients with the forms that need signing and a brief questionnaire.

For the areas where we do not have a representative, or if you would prefer to download the forms for signing right from our website in the comfort of your home and use our free courier service, the time involved is minimal and your rebate could be huge.

There is a brief questionnaire on our website which allows you to see if you qualify for the rebate and only takes a few minutes or if you like you can give us a call and in just a few minutes we can determine if you qualify.

Everyone seems to know someone who qualifies for this rebate, so if you know someone who might qualify make sure to let them know before they miss their deadline.

Canada’s Reno Rebate Inc. handles all the paperwork and follows through with the government until you receive your cheque.

Because Sean and his staff know the forms, the processes, and who to call, they efficiently and quickly collect the information and submit exactly what the government agencies need.

The company charges no upfront fee and if you don’t receive a rebate, the application costs you nothing. So give us a call or check us out online.

What have you got to lose?

I u b a s w a C a i m m p

C g S t C d M p

Win Money To Spend In Chemainus

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our years ago, Chemainus joined over 5000 communities around the world and started printing its own money! Chemainus Dollars are legal currency equivalent to the value of Canadian Dollars.

CH$1.00 = CA$1.00 It’s real money and you can use it to buy groceries, meals, books, clothes, hotel and B&B accommodation, building supplies, electronics, haircuts, wine, insurance, jewelry and almost anything else available in Chemainus. Chemainus Dollars are accepted by all three financial institutions in Chemainus and most businesses. A number of merchants offer discounts if you pay with CH$.

Chemainus Dollars make great gifts and they never expire.

So, keep them handy and use them each time you shop in Chemainus. The currency was developed by the Chemainus Monetary Foundation, a nonprofit organization, in April 2010.

Chemainus is giving away $4,000 in Chemainus Dollars in the Shop Chemainus Contest.

You could win the grand prize od $3,000 CH$ or a second or third prize of $500 CH$ each.

And, there’s an early bird prize offered monthly. “It is easy to enter”, says dee Kinnee, Contest Orgnizer, “Ask for a contest entry form every time you purchase from one of the 80 participating Chemainus businesses.”

For more information on the Shop Chemainus Contest and to read the contest rules go to www. visitchemainus,.ca. For more info on the Chemainus Dollar and the Chemainus Monetary Foundation contact: Moira Hauk, Branch Manager, Coastal Community Credit Union – Chemainus Branch. (250) 246-4704 or visit www.chemainusdollar.com.

Dee Kinnee, a Chemainiac, lives and works in The Little Town. dkinnee@ onsitesales.ca

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Cowichan Valley Fine Arts Show Runs to May 4

Centre, ArtStarts Artist in Residence Program, Excellent Frameworks and the Sunrise Waldorf School Parent Association. Robert Bateman Centre 470 Belleville St, Victoria. Show runs May 1 – June 5 www.batemancentre.org.

art news

One of Vancouver Island’s largest, open art exhibitions and sales, will be held at the Island Savings Centre in the Cowichan Suite and PORTALS – The CVAC Centre of Arts, Culture and Heritage located at 2687 James Street in Duncan, B.C. Show runs to May 4th.

Crofton Art Group 60th Anniversary Show & Sale Sunrise Waldorf School Art Exhibit at Robert Batemen Centre The new Robert Bateman Centre, in the Old Steamship Building in Victoria’s Inner Harbour will be exhibiting art work

by Class 7 and 8 (ages 12-14) of Sunrise Waldorf School, situated in Cowichan Station. The Bateman Centre and SWS share common values in education, children, art and nature. These values made a perfect partnership for the two organizations to come together for a student exhibit “Connecting Children To Nature” Students had the opportunity to visit the Centre and were toured throughout by Mr. Bateman who spoke to them about his work as an artist and gave them advice on art as well as life. SWS, the only accredited Waldorf School on Vancouver Island, incorporates art into every subject throughout all grades. This exhibit was made possible by The Robert Bateman

The Crofton Art Group was established in 1954 by founding member, Mrs. Eloise Kearney. Now 60 years later the art group is still going strong. This illustrious group will be celebrating their 60th Anniversary with an Art Show and Sale which will include beautiful original paintings, both large and small, together with quality eye catching jewelry created by our very talented Artists.

Please join us on Friday May 9th at 2pm for the opening of the Crofton Art Group Kiosk and Ribbon Cutting Ceremony by North Cowichan Mayor, Jon Lefebure, followed by celebration refreshments. Show also runs Saturday May 10 10am -5pm Crofton Senior’s Centre, 1507 Joan Ave, Crofton

steam punk jewellery; gorgeous glass towers for the garden; exquisite frameable photographs; mosaic pots and mirrors; colourful hanging baskets and planters; funky up-cycled mobiles and wind chimes; and a wonderful assortment of greeting cards Also featuring works by the Cowichan Valley Artisans. Saturday, May 10, 9am - 3pm. The Green Door garden, 126 Ingram St

Valley Girls Arts and Crafts Mother’s Day Show & Sale Valley Girls Arts and Crafts Collective presents our first annual Mothers’ Day Extravaganza. Celebrate the women you love with a hand-made, locally-crafted, utterly unique gift. In the enchanted garden you will find: bouquets, nosegays and one-of-a-kind flower arrangements; beautiful hand-painted silk scarves, tote bags, purses and banners;

Our Award-Winning Face Cream is NOW AVAILABLE at The Community Farm Store in Duncan! Yahoo!

Visit our BIG SPRING SALE at the Duncan Market May 10 & 17!

Visit us at botanicbliss.com Or call 250-710-1276

Need Help Learning to Read?

Remedial Reading Services now available at the HUB in Cowichan Station.

Kate Woodland, BEd. Call 250-743-1810

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Brad Allen

Studio and Garden Show May 10 & 11 10am -4pm 6486 Diana Drive Duncan www.meddleart.com Studio visits by appt 250-748-0934

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etal artist Brad Allen has been working with metal for over 40 years.

Inspired by his experiences on the West Coast, harmony and music his art portrays the playful and postive sides of life. With a studio in Duncan and on Hornby Island, his signature metal pieces adorn walls, halls and gardens throughout the Vancouver Island region. “I began making functional, decorative works from reclaimed metal. Candle holders, wine racks, door knockers, and the works evolved over the years into 2D and 3D creative art forms” smiles Brad. The artist’s repertoire has expanded to include free standing sculptures, wall hangings including some custom works to fit specific spaces and commissioned pieces.

All of Brad’s 2D wall works and 3D garden sculptures are innovative and unique. “ I like to convey a message that is imaginative and original.

I appreciate the beauty of

metal and the different effects that takes place when heated.

Part of the allure is the tactile energy of the metal. Using a variety of stock with textures which may be rusted, pitted or etched with beautiful patterns.

Each sheet of metal has its own history to tell and a natural energy that draws me in. Metal is timeless.

The image shown on the outside wall sold before he even had a chance to title it! “This one is made from reclaimed plate iron about 4’ tall by 5’ wide. It’s previous use is unknown to me. I really liked the stock because it was quite pitted, thick enough to work with, but thin enough to make a larger piece without too much weight.

I envisioned a fluid movement while I was creating it, so considered calling it Fluid. The first people to view the piece bought it immediately.” shares Brad. Come snap up your own original Brad Allen metal works at his Studio and Garden Show.

There will be a range of wall hangings on display suitable for both indoor and outdoor as well as a great selection of original free standing works to observe while you stroll through the gardens. Visit the show and take part in the Mother’s Day Raffle!

Talking Arts Metal Artist Brad Allen Fluid by Brad Allen

Join us for a relaxing ZEN EXPERIENCE Welcome New Stylist

Nikki Fellows • Full Hair and Esthetics Services • Professional hair colour and products • Natural Sugaring Hair Removal • Onsite Gel Nail Artist

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he Cowichan Valley’s best kept secret has just returned from her annual placement working at a retreat centre for wellness in Hawaii.

In exploring the traditions and culture of the Hawaiians, Martha has gained insights that have deepened her work as a Shiatsu Therapist.

Shiatsu is twofold. It is hands on bodywork. Through hand and finger pressure, stretches and joint rotations, it addresses physical discomfort and allows a deep state of relaxation. It is also meridian based so it addresses the body’s flow of energy by releasing blockages and renewing energy flow to increase vitality.

“Hawaiians are in constant conversation with the divine.

Every rock, every wave, every breeze, plant, and animal, is a manifestation of spirit. With every step a Hawaiian takes he is in full knowledge of his connection to the land, the ocean, and through that, to the divine.” Martha explains

“This conversation begins with the breath. “Alo” means to stand and face each other. “Ha” is the breath of god. Aloha means to stand and face each other and share the breath of god that is in our presence.”

The act of giving and receiving Shiatsu is likewise a conversation with the aspects of our being that stand outside our day-waking consciousness. Martha helps to create space for that consciousness through breath. “I use breath to stay centered and focussed in preparation and during a treatment. I use breath as the language for the conversation with the receivers body. I use breath to remind me of my humility and to feel gratitude for the gift of my presence in the exchange.”

In turn, as the receiver focuses on each point, breathing expansion into what is contracted and exhaling any tension into relaxation, the mind relaxes into an alpha wave state equivalent to meditation. This quiets the conscious mind which creates

Shiatsu with Martha Lescher space for listening to our inner voice and allows the awakening of our healing energies.

“I tell people it’s like me doing your yoga for you,” Martha explained. “Meridians are opened with joint rotations and stretches.

Then palm and finger pressure is applied to specific accupoints along the meridians further releasing tensions that cause blockages in the flow of energy, nerve impulses, blood, and bodily fluids “ Every touch is diagnosis and treatment combined. The

meridian, point, muscle, tissue, is palpated, touched, felt and the practitioner’s hands respond accordingly.” The aim of a session is to relax to the point of letting go of the outer world. Give attention to your inner world; what needs healing or balance, what is seeking expression will come through.

Her practice Shiatsu: Heaven and Earth has been offering treatments to loyal clients for over a decade.

Contact Martha at 250 748 6441 to experience her Hawaiian healing influences yourself.

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 • Window Crystals • Salt Lamps and more!

Beaver House Fudge

250 748 6647

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Community Farm Store Pages

Featuring Salty Caramel with Dark Chocolate or Vanilla Fudge

www.beaverhousefudge.com

Restore Your Health with

Traditional Chinese Medicine Acupuncture & Diet Therapy

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

Energize Your Soul

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ward winning artist, Joane Moran, began painting in oils to fulfill a creative urge. Growing up on the North Shore of Vancouver, with its beautiful surroundings, has given her endless inspiration. Subjects of interest for her are usually animal and botanical, mainly because she has an emotional passion for both, especially for the animals.

Strong strokes of colour and contrast are qualities you will see in Joane’s work.

What makes Joane’s work unique is her ability to capture a moment, the vibrant light through an abundance of flower blossoms, the crashing waves of the West Coast, a glimpse of a sunset over the Cowichan Valley, or her highly praised work of cats and dogs in her pet portraiture collection.

Joane now resides in Cobble Hill and when she’s not painting she is usually exercising or gardening.

Taking part in numerous F.C.A. art shows and

exhibits at Coast Collective, as well as participating in regional charity benefits and invitational events she enjoys the time showing her work and meeting new people.

Currently showing at the Gallery in Oak Bay, White Dog Gallery, Whistler, and having just recently illustrated a children’s book “Washalot”, which is now being published.

For the month of May, 2014 she will be on show at “Imagine That” in Duncan, with her beautiful florals, sure to catch your eye as you pass the front window.

“Creating energizes my soul.

It’s a constant circle, the more creating, the more energy and on and on it goes.” Hurrah!

On show to May 31 - Oil paintings by Joane Moran and Printmaking by the Printmakers Only Group on display at Imagine That!, 251 Craig St., Duncan

Meditation Thursdays at VIU Cowichan Campus 7 PM Rm. 210

“Traveling to far away lands adds cultural open mindfulness, appreciation for realization we are all One” Nichiren Buddha Society & Peace Center Phone: 250. 710. 7594

14th Annual Buddha In the Park Fri. Sat. Sun. July 18 -19- 20 Register today www.VIRetreats.com/retreats

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Mother’s Day Tarot Reading

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any years ago I was taken by my boyfriend’s mother for a reading. It was a special tradition reserved for female family members, girlfriends, sisters and the mums in her life.

The fact that she shared this experience with me always held a special place in my heart.

Liberty Harakas, of Lobelia’s Lair offers intuitive Tarot readings for personal and business guidance in Nanaimo’s Old City Quarter.

Couples, families and any groups who would like to share the experience are welcome to come together. She has done spreads for babies to seniors. Her eldest client was 96.

Filled with metaphysical and new age treasures, Lobelia’s Lair offers handmade local artisan and fair trade creations; unique gifts, jewelry, art work, tarot cards, books, beeswax candles, herbs, oils, goddess oriented materials, crystals, and much more.

Personal Readings in Tarot and Astrology also available.

Open 7 Days A Week.

Find us in Nanaimo’s Old Quarter

Suite 8-321 Wesley St

250-753-5440 www.lobeliaslair.com 44

“I was raised in Toronto and always had a fascination with E.S.P. and my own intuitive feelings. When studying psychology and counselling, I discovered that dreamwork and tarot had been used to work with clients in therapy. I had a tarot reading to experience it myself, and was immediately inspired to learn. I studied tarot and eventually began to read professionally for others in the late 80’s while working in the field of social work. I opened Lobelia’s Lair Metaphysical Treasures in 2001 to offer resources for people who are exploring their spiritual journeys.” shares Liberty. The shoppe offers daily readings in tarot, palm reading, astrology, clairvoyant/medium/ animal communication and hosts guest readers from time to time. Classes are also offered.

Clients visit for readings when they have questions about various aspects of their lives; to clear confusing thoughts, fears and emotions. “Most times people would like to get perspective or clarity about something or seek an affirmation for their own intuitive feelings.

Sometimes they want to focus on personal development, career, relationships, finances. Quite

often people come in and want to see what the reading has to offer, without directing it in any way.”

If you have never had a reading, Liberty describes the process.

“I read in a private room at my shoppe. Clients come in and I begin by explaining what a reading entails. If it is their first time, I let them know that a reading reflects whatever is pertinent in their lives at this time and reveal potential directions for the future; that they can ask questions on whatever is of interest.” For those who have questions Lobelia’s Lair also offers readings by telephone, email and skype. “Sometimes people like to sit in on each other’s readings and go for lunch afterward and discuss what was revealed. I focus on each individual at a time while the others observe and sometimes provide input for additional questions. Sharing readings with family members can be an enriching experience; building intimacy and having fun while learning about each other and yourselves.”

“Reading for people is a passion of mine. I am so pleased when people find it a valuable tool to explore their own path and that it provides guidance to relieve some of the stresses that life presents.” shares Liberty.

Rates are: 20 minutes-$30, 1/2 hour -$50, 1 hour-$95 plus GST per person. For more information call 250 753 5440 or visit www. lobeliaslair.com or Facebook to book an appointment.

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c w t j n W 2 K f e s p a T K t p o o a u

I O p c t T T a W n fi M B t o p t

The newest Bigg’s Killer Whale Calf in the Salish Sea; T065A5 born in mid March. The new calf is the fourth calf born to T065A who was born in 1986. Image Simon Pidcock.

A New Baby Whale Calf in The Salish Sea Simon Pidcock is Head Captain and owner of Ocean Ecoventures.

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here is no better feeling than being the first captain to identify a new killer whale in the Salish Sea. I had this pleasure a few weeks ago just outside Porlier Pass at the north end of Galiano Island.

We came across a group over 20 Transient Orcas or Bigg’s Killer Whales traveling south from Nanaimo. I was really excited when I saw a very small calf that was still a very pinky/orange colour travelling along side the female Transient T065A. When Killer Whale calves are born their liver isn’t functioning properly and all the white on their body is a real pinky/ orange colour, it almost like a form of jaundice that clears up around a year of age.

I had seen this Transient Orca family a few weeks prior and there was no new calf traveling with them, so this was a brand new calf, T065A5. The mother is T065A who was born in 1986 and now has four offspring.

We also got to see another new calf T049A4 who was first documented earlier this March. It’s so great to see the Bigg’s Killer Whales thriving this spring! Our transient orca (mammal eaters) population is very strong due to the abundance of marine

mammals in our area. The population has been growing by 10% for the past 2 years, a population boom. Typically their population is increasing by 5% a year.

When a killer whale calf is born, it is born tail first and two other females act as midwives and push the newborn calf to the surface.

The calf cannot swim until it takes its first breath. Once the calf takes it’s first breath it is able to swim freely.

Typically Orcas in our area travel 100 miles in a 24hour period and these small calves do this as soon as they are born. Their dorsal fin is flopped over for the first few hours, after which it stands up. Their chance of survival for the first year is 50/50; once they pass the year mark it is a good sign that they are going to make it. When the calf is born it is welcomed by the rest of its family and stays with them for life! Welcome to the Salish Sea T065A5.

Why are mammal eating killer whales known as Transients now being called Bigg’s Killer Whales?

It was discovered in 2010 that the genetic divergence between mammal eating and fishing eating killer whales was much greater than previously thought. It turns out that they were genetically continued on pg 52

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Walk of Nations

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t was only my second day in the Cowichan Valley, after moving from Vancouver, when I learned something special about the Cowichan way of Q’ ushin’ tul u tu siiye’ yutst – Friends Walking Together.

Taking a break from the chaos of packing boxes and paintbrushes, my daughter and I decided to see if we could find our way to down town Duncan and learn a little more about our new community.

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ollaborating with Horses in leadership development is gaining widespread recognition in business, educational and personal arenas.

EFLD focuses on three core principles; centering, humility and gratitude. It is a practice that engages the mind, the physical body, and emotional intelligence to tap into the innate wisdom we hold within each of us.

This wisdom is the source of creativity, intuition and skillful means to enrich our relations with ourselves and one another.

Through on going global research and applied educational programs we have learned that HORSES create a powerful simulator so that participants can learn to recognize their own behavior patterns, within the confines of a safe and skillfully facilitated environment. Horses have high degrees of sensory awareness and immediately ‘feel’ when a human is not aligned in their thinking, emotions and actions. The horses offer feedback displayed through their behavior. They will show a variety of reactions from disinterest, taking over leadership or simply walking away, similar

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Not too far into our walk, we began to hear the steady beat of drums rising up a few blocks ahead of us. Soon we saw a large, diverse and joyous crowd of about 1000 people. Many were carrying brightly painted signs and banners with words such as ‘Understanding’, ‘Acceptance’, ‘Respect’ and ‘Compassion’.

We got a welcoming wave to join in; wow what a beautiful community!

By the time we reached the community celebration we learned that we had joined the Annual Walk of Nations, a legacy born from the 2008 North American Indigenous Games (NAIG) which saw First Nations and non-First Nations communities come together in new and profound ways.

Although the Walk has taken different forms throughout the years, its essence remains true to its roots: an opportunity for everyone to come together and celebrate the rich diversity of the Cowichan Region.

Everyone is warmly welcome to join in the 6th annual Walk of Nations May 31st. Beginning at 10 am at the Vancouver Island University (Duncan & Beverly), we’ll be walking together to the fields at Si’em Lelum Gym and then walking to a community celebration at Centennial Park.

There will be a wide range of cultural and interactive activities along the way, pizza from the Community Kitchen’s cob oven, and diverse and exciting performances.

This is a free event, accessible to all (transportation provided for people with disabilities and Elders), so come and feel the beat of the drums and the Cowichan way of Q’ ushin’ tul u tu siiye’ yutst – Friends Walking Together.

The Walk of the Nations is hosted by Social Planning Cowichan in partnership with Cowichan Intercultural Society and Hiiye’yu Lelum (House of Friendship Society). For more information go to the : Walk of the Nations on Facebook or email us at walkofnations2014@ gmail.com

Through a series of experiential practices with horses we can safely simulate stress conditions and teach tangible, effective ways that assist you in developing a calm, centered and clear position when facing challenge and diversity. We offer individual and team practices

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w w l w d fi g

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to what we may experience in human relations.

One of the most challenging practices of leadership is confronting and dealing with stressful situations.You may have a well developed brain and operate at high levels of intelligence but under stress the body always WINS! The bodies sympathetic nervous system kicks in, breathing becomes more shallow, the muscles begin to contract, blood pressure rises and cortisol (the hormone released under stress) will begin to shut down the brain, inhibiting the capacity to remain calm, centered and in line with big picture thinking. If you ignore the information of the body you remain disconnected from your direct experience and miss vast amounts of information in the moment.

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I I a s f e d

Equine Facilitated Leadership Development to gain insight, understanding and somatic experience as a collaborative approach to inspirational leadership and effective communication.

Michelle Atterby Spirit Gate Farms, A nature based educational and experiential organization, inspired by horses.

www.spiritgate.ca May 15 - 7-9pm lecture on embodied leadership and demonstration - free May 16 - 10 - 4 One day workshop - introduction to the ART of Embodied Leadership $195.00

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Lucky Dogs...

Oh Those Fleas!

1059 CANADA AVENUE

DROP IN

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ince our animals stopped living nomadically to be with us, parasites that naturally would have been left at the last campsite have flourished with the easy pickings of our domesticity. Staying put is the first reason the flea is a constant guest in our lives.

If you have chosen to try to keep your flea fight au natural, you may be finding the battle daunting, but with a new flea season just beginning I would like to share what has worked for me.

I gave up the ham fisted chemical insecticide system of parasite control out of concern for my pets overall health. The more I learned that parasites can naturally be kept under control with a healthy immune system, the more chemical intervention (which damages the immune system) seemed ludicrous.

I was already doing everything I could to help my pets have a strong immune system with species appropriate whole fresh foods, clean air and water, exercise, and rest. But those darn fleas!

After a year’s worth of research and trials, (yes, my dogs and cat are always my test subjects)

Lucky Dog DUNCAN

I have concocted a flea destruction system that has the little blood suckers begging for mercy.

The De-Flea Dream Team is a three part kit with a De-Flea Tea rinse for après bath, followed by a special blend of De-Flea Essential Oils for applying to the skin and topped with a good dose of De-Flea Diatomaceous Earth for the home and car.

Not only am I flea free, but everybody smells nice, too!

Not included in the kit, but available at garden centers are “parasitic nematodes”. These are easily sprayed on your lawn and suck the life out of fleas and their offspring with the fervor that only Mother Nature can provide.

The De-Flea Dream Team kit is available at Lucky Dog U-Bath and comes complete with detailed instructions and more de-flea tips to help you along the way this flea season.

We also have just the food grade Diatomaceous Earth if you need that.

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

250 597 7DOG

OPEN 7 DAYS A WEEK

www.luckydogubath.ca

U-BATH

OR WE BATH!

H o me o

t h e $10f To e Na i l Tr i m !

NO appointment needed!

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

Dog of The Month: Marley

This is Marley.

She is an eight month old boxer who drops in for daycare sometimes on the weekends at Lucky Dog U-Bath.

Did You Know?

The Canadian government has downgraded the protection of Pacific Northern humpback whales off the coast of BC under the Species at Risk Act. Write to our MP Jean Crowder and ask her to help protect the whales!

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Dating Tips for a Fresh Start

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inding love is the unavoidable stepping stone to being in love. For a rare few, love just shows up one day, like blossoms in spring. For the rest of us, the quest for love requires dating; a process as awkward, complicated and confusing as trying to play an old board game without instructions.

Invariably, you get half-way through (or reach the end) and realize if you had of known that one thing from

the beginning, things might have worked out differently.

Likewise, the path to love seems equally fraught with opportunities for hindsight.

I don’t have a way around it, but I do have a piece of advice that hasn’t failed me yet: date as you mean for the relationship to go on. I know, as if there isn’t enough pressure already! Seriously though, the cards you start with really are your best allies. Let me lay them out:

1. If you want to be the feminine in the relationship: the one who is whisked off your feet; sit tight.

2. Likewise, if you want to be the masculine in the relationship: the one who does the whisking, then make the first move.

3. If you want to be loved for who you really are; be who you really are.

4. Honour the golden rule: treat yourself the way you expect others to treat you.

5. Values are instilled, not taught. If you value loyalty, honesty, tenderness, compassion, empathy and joy in your relationship, accept nothing less.

6. Under no circumstances is it a good idea to encourage any behaviors you don’t find immediately attractive.

In other words, your future relationship is determined by who you are, what you do and say right now. If your date doesn’t love you just that way, it doesn’t mean that one of you needs to change,

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it’s simply the sign that you haven’t found your love story just yet.

Lisa Haché-Maguire, is a Dating & Relationship Coach who helps couples and individuals. www.asubtleart.com

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Introduction to Modern Buddhist Meditation

here will be an introduction to Buddhist Meditation at the Matraea Centre on Thursday May 1 from 10:30 am to 12:00 pm.

The class will be given by Gen Kelsang Zopa, a western Buddhist monk who is the resident teacher on Vancouver Island for the New Kadampa Tradition. The New Kadampa Tradition emphasizes Modern Buddhism – the application of the Buddhist paths of compassion and wisdom to modern daily life, without affiliations to any specific country or culture.

In our busy lives, we often miss the connection between our state of mind and our daily experiences. These teachings specifically support the integration of Buddhist meditation and other practices into our modern lives.

When our mind is peaceful, our mind is joyful, but when our mind is disturbed or agitated we are vulnerable to problems, stress and difficulties. Meditation is a simple, yet profound way to let go of the causes of our pain and dissatisfaction and gain the inner peace and clarity we seek.

The class will include a talk explaining how to create a peaceful mind, a guided meditation and a discussion: what is meditation? how to reduce anger and attachment; opening our heart with compassion and wisdom. The class is given on a drop in basis. Everyone is welcome.

Seating is on chairs and no special clothing, preparation or pre-registration is required.

The cost is $10.

For more information please contact the Matraea Centre at 170 Craig Street in Duncan or the Bodhichitta Buddhist Centre at 250-592-7164 or info@ meditatevancouverisland.org, or look on our website: www.

MeditateVancouverIsland.org

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) It’s time to monitor your assets. Do you know what you own? Do you have stuff you haven’t used in years?

What about your “ongoing, projects”? Figure out what you own, what you want to keep and what you want to get rid of. This is the best time of year to examine how you use your resources. The trick is what you own should make your life easier and not the other way around. Think of the peace of mind and increased energy you will have once you organize your finances and your stuff.

Taurus (April 20-May 20) Happy birthday! This month boosts your energy and gives you a chance to recharge your batteries for the rest of the year. It also attracts important people to you as well as favourable situations. This is the one time of year when you should put yourself first.

Because you like your creature comforts and you like quality, treat yourself to some of your favourite goodies – the best bread, coffee, wine, or your favourite restaurant. Creative friends are in your life now, which means you can enjoy scintillating conversations over a great table.

Gemini (May 21-June 20) Since your personal year is coming to an end, this is the perfect time to reflect on the past year and think about how you want your new year to be different. Studies claim if

you set goals, with deadlines, your odds of achieving those goals are greater than if you just muddle forward, reacting to life. It’s like going to the supermarket with a list instead of just wandering through the aisles buying maraschino cherries and tonic water.

Basically, this month is a reality check. It’s time to see how well you are doing at the art of living.

Cancer (June 21-July 22) This is a popular month!

Not only will you socialize extensively, you will also receive help from others.

That’s why it’s wise to form working units and accept the assistance of others, or in turn, offer assistance. The next six weeks are an excellent time to think about future goals. What do you want to achieve in the next five years? If you imagine yourself five years in the future, what does the perfect picture look like? Always start with perfect and then scale back as reality dictates. It’s something to shoot for.

Leo (July 23-Aug. 22) Lucky Leo! This month, the Sun slowly crosses the top of your chart, acting like a spotlight on you and this light is flattering! Bosses, parents, teachers and VIPs will notice you more and see you as competent and capable. This is why you will be asked to take on increased responsibilities.

Say yes because you won’t have to be an action hero to satisfy their expectations. Hey --you look great, remember?

This is also a good time to examine your life direction.

Are you headed where you want to go?.

Delicious East Indian Cuisine Butter Chicken Curry Chicken Vegetarian Specialties Chana Masala Pakoras Samosas The Daily Grind Dine in or Take Out 3218 Sherman Road • 250-709-2299

Virgo (Aug. 23-Sept. 22) Travel opportunities and chances to get further education will fall in your lap this month, which is great because you’re keen to explore new, unfamiliar situations.

Even a casual encounter might be fascinating or prove to be a positive learning experience.

Therefore, do anything different! If you can’t travel, then explore your own city. Do anything that stimulates your intellect and gives you a new take on things. Some of you will be involved with the law more than usual. (“Step away from the fridge.”)

Libra (Sept. 23-Oct. 22) You don’t like to talk about money. You like to spend it on clothes and furnishings, stemware and linens. And restaurants. Nevertheless, in the next few weeks, you will be focused on debt, taxes and shared property.

You want to get out of debt to be more in control of your life. You will also be more aware of how your values differ from someone else’s values and how you can either compromise or reach a consensus. The upside is that your sex life is hot! Actually, your energy is passionate in everything you do.

Scorpio (Oct. 23-Nov. 21) This month the Sun is opposite your sign, which means you will need more sleep. Factoid.

However, this opposition Sun will also draw your focus to partnerships and close friendships. Examine these relationships. Essentially, for a partnership to be successful, you have to be as good for your partner as he or she is for you. According to a Chinese proverb, “Married couples who love each other tell each other a thousand things without talking.” (Pssst. This hand signal means “Take out the garbage.”)

Sagittarius (Nov. 22-Dec. 21) You want to turn over a new leaf and reorganize your world. Get on the stick and give yourself the right materials to do a great job. This marvelous spring energy will energize you to not only clean and sort where you live, but also to apply this same effort to where you work. In fact, by

April

extrapolation, you will be gung ho to improve your health.

Yes, you want it all! Physical, smooth running efficiency!

Not only will you refine your techniques for staying on top of your scene, you will enjoy being of service to others.

Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan. 19) It’s fun city! The placement of the Sun this month makes you want to seek out pleasure.

This is the perfect time for a vacation. Enjoy playful times with children plus sports events. Expect romance to be revved. Existing relationships will be recharged with fun energy, while new romance might enter your world.

Express your creativity and explore the arts or any creative expression that appeals. (Yup. Show me an optimist, and I’ll show you a happy-condriac.)

Aquarius (Jan. 20-Feb. 18) Now your attention turns to home, family and your domestic world. Some will be involved with a parent; but all of you will focus more on your personal life. You might entertain at home and be involved with family, or you might want to cocoon at home with junk food, good TV, interesting books and games. You want to be among familiar surroundings. Expect to be contemplative about the past. You might do something that takes you on a trip down memory lane.

Pisces (Feb. 19-March 20) The pace of your days accelerates in the next six weeks with errands, short trips and schmoozing. You might be involved with a sibling or relative plus you will read and write more. Basically, you want to get outta town and do something stimulating! Note: This is a good time to buy wardrobe goodies because you like what you see in the mirror, plus you’re eager to socialize. You are aware of your daily world because you are interested in everything going on around you. www.georgianicols.com www.georgianicols.com

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split over 700 000 years ago and researchers put forward that they be distinguished as different species. The newly distinguished species was fitting called “Bigg’s Killer Whales” paying homage to the late Dr. Michael Bigg who was the forefather of Killer Whale research. Bigg was from the Cowichan Valley and it was ultimately his research that led to the realization that killer whales have distinct cultures. The scientific community suffered a huge blow when Michael

Glenora Staging Area Heaven on Earth

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he Glenora Trails Head Park on Vaux Road is a true Cowichan Valley treasure. The family and kid friendly park is a safe, bright, open expanse, surrounded by forest and river. On one side you’ll find the exquisite Cowichan River Provincial Park walking trails and the other is edged by the Trans Canada Trail. The park proper has a charming children’s playground, a covered picnic area, clean washrooms and access to all the trails.

There is much fun to be had on foot in and around the area…and the cycling opportunities are wonderful as well. In fact with the right equipment a family could easily ride to the Kinsol Trestle and back from Glenora. Even with small children and pets. Round trip it’s a 26 km ride on a well groomed trail. There is much to see along the way such as the painted rocks tucked into the small bridges. Because the trail is well groomed, a bike with suspension is not required…the ride is pretty smooth. If you head west towards Lake Cowichan,

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Dr. Michael Bigg

continued from pg 45

passed away in 1990. Killer Whale research wouldn’t be where it is today without Dr. Michael Bigg.

however, you may wish to ride a bike with suspension as the trail is bumpy and rougher.

If your kids are too young to ride that far, consider using a “Trail-gator” tow bar which allows the child to ride separately or attached to you on the same ride. It telescopes together and folds onto your bike for storage during the ride when not in use. Or you can tow your little ones in a “Burley” trailer attached to your bike. Burley also makes a “Tail-Wagon” for towing your dog when it tires or a tiny dog can pop into a doggy-specific bikebasket.

After your splendid day at Glenora, consider stopping at the Glenora Store & Café for an ice cream cone or to peruse some local fare. Fun in the sun for the whole family.

Sandra has dogs, a bike, a business, and not enough time.

WEBSITES, EMAILS AND VERBAL LINT By Rick Dennis DRUMS ARE HER BEAT: ‘I’m not one to remember specific formulas, but I remember drum beats,” writes Cowichan Valley resident Karin Lewis. “I feel the rhythmic patterns and speed and pitch of their tones.

When we’re all playing our drums together, I love the spaces between beats... where sound fades into stillness, carrying us like gliders in the wind. Sometimes, during these spaces, I see something gleam in people’s eyes. They’re not thinking so much but feeling and flowing instead. It can be a total recharge.” Karin has studied with Brazilian recording artist Celso Machado, local percussionist Chris Bertin and Shane Phillip (to mention a few) and now teaches her own selfdeveloped program at Adage Studios in Duncan. “I like exploring when I play, how it feels to syncopate, to coast, to ride waves and hang on for dear life. A drum beat can energize you or calm you, soothe or stimulate.

But it always reaches to meet you. I think that’s why people like coming to my classes. Because they get to experience connection non-verbally. It’s fun plugging into a beat and getting lost in it!” In fact, Ms.Lewis has another seminar on hand drumming starting May 20th at Adage Studios.”We’re all instruments. Sometimes in harmony, sometimes discordant but always making music. When we’re too busy to be played by life, we feel the loss. When we welcome our unique song, we rise. Sometimes we’re tuned in and other times there’s static… But more and more we’re remembering that we are musical ‘conductors’ of energy.” For more info on Karin Lewis (the artist) log onto cowichanculture.ca. For dates and fees for Karin’s next drum seminar call Adage Studios at (250) 732-4949.

Cowichan Community

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Men Wish Moms A Happy Day n behalf of West Coast Men, we want to send out our very best wishes to all the moms for a very Happy Mother’s

Day! We want to honour you for being the nurturers of our community. We want to bless you for your generosity of spirit and strength of heart.

It is our hope that we can support the women of our community by supporting our men with love, respect and compassion.

Please contact us if you require our support.

COWICHAN FEATURE LISTINGS Want to learn how to make your own jewellery?

Etc! offers a wide range of classes from introductory classes in Beading, Kumihimo and Bead Weaving to more advanced techniques and workshops.

We have a fantastic range of beads and supplies as well as unique gifts.

Call for prices and dates 250 324 2227 Hours Monday - Saturday 10 - 5 and Sunday 11 - 4

9752c Willow St Chemainus 250 324 2227

Lynda Allen 250-748-0934

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

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

Artful Eating The edible design was created by Ellen McEwan who is a lifetime member of the Cowichan Valley Garden Club and a past President.

Image Jillian Kondrat

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

Now serving Nani’s Secret speciality condiments!

To book events call 250 732-5250 depotdawgs@gmail.com

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DIRECTORY

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 15 for June Issue 67

Advertising Services

Alterations and Sewing

Want to be part of the Valley Voice Magazine in 2014?

• Sewing and Alterations • Decorative Painting • Custom Projects and Lessons Carolyn Carr - 250 743 2858 suzieqarts@shaw.ca

Contact Adrienne Richards 250 510 6596 adrienne@cowichanvalleyvoice.com for a 2014 Spring Rate Card

Business Services

Building Services

McCulloch’s Unlimited Services

All residential contract work. I welcome owners participation! Over 45 contracting years experience.

Call me for your Renovations and repairs BCIT Grad

Renovations Contractor Allen 250 216 5976 Child Care

Coaching

Need childcare?

Taking care of children?

Call the Cowichan Valley Child Care Resource & Referral 250-746-4135 local 231

STILL SHY? MISSING OUT? EFT Coaching:The gentle approach to living a new life Contact Willie 250.597.4035 thenextstep1@shaw.ca

Counsellors

Dating & Relationships

Lynne Woollam

Dating & Relationship Coach Lisa Haché-Maguire

Counselling and Bodywork for the Whole Self

Registered Professional Counsellor 250.597.8070 lynne.woollam@shaw.ca

250.510.1252 I www.asubtleart.com Farm Vineyards

Food & Art Photography

Shawn Sanders Photography Specializing in technical documentation of art pieces, sculpture, food and locations.

www.shawnsandersphotography.ca 250 510 5377

Farm & Winery 3810 Cobble Hill Rd 250 743-9149 www.silversidefarm.com

We harvest fruit from our farm and around the Valley for fresh blueberries and unique wine tastes - Come...

Savour our Berry Flavours!

Farms and Food

Sign up now for our 2014 organic, pasture-raised Chicken and Egg CSA!

250.701.7533 info@thehappygoat.ca I thehappygoat.ca

More than a Meat Shop

Gluten Free/Organic Pasta’s, Organic Meat, Homemade Sausage, International Foods.

The Duncan Butcher 430 Trans Canada Hwy 250 748 -6377

Now Open Tues/Fri/Sat & Sun 11am - 6pm for LUNCH & DINNER The Valley’s 1st Certified Organic /Biodynamic Community

Supported Agriculture Program Year round availability or 24 weeks Come eat at our Organic Farm Cafe - Child, Celiac and Vegan friendly!

Alderlea Farm and Cafe 3390 Glenora Road, Duncan, 250 597 3438

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Special seating for family meals!

Health and Healing Feeling the emotional, physical or mental strain?

Wu Wei Acupuncture & Acupressure Clinic Frauke McCashin, R.Ac. 250 710–3581 Mill Bay Acute or Chronic conditions • Substance dependency Or just a natural aging look – NEW – Facial Rejuvenation

Ananda Ayurveda with Asrael • Luxurious Hot Oil Massages • Ayurvedic Treatments, Consultations & Counseling • Jyotish Astrology and Yoga 250 597 3973 www.anandaayurveda.com

778 356 3306 • Valleyview Centre • www.drwickland.com Personalized, proactive healthcare for the whole family

Lindsay Campa

Reflexology & Chi Wellness by Terri.

Harmony Yoga Wellness Centre 250-466-4607 www.thehealingbody.ca

May Special!

Registered Massage Therapist Registered Yoga Teacher

1453 Algonkin Rd, Duncan 250-701-8962 • www.terriswellness.com

3-1 hour Foot Reflexology sessions for $150!

Be Happy. Acupuncture helps.

Affordable, Community Acupuncture with GaChing Kong. $30-50.

Thursday, Friday & Saturday 10 to 5.

(250) 815-0863 Duncan kind.tiger.clinic@gmail.com

Professional Cleaners

Home Design

Home and Office Cleaning

Have a Healthy, Happy Home or Workplace

250-929-6685

earthfriendclean@hotmail.com www.earthfriendlycleaning.ca Pet Care

Professional Writing Services

Lucky Dog U-Bath & Urban Daycare Open 7 days a week. DROP IN www.luckydogubath.ca 250-597-7DOG 1059 Canada Ave, Duncan Leave The Mess With Us! Professional Framing and Local Art 139 Station St. 250-748-3311 ssgfs@telus.net Professional Framing •Local Art •Unique Gifts Simplicty Parenting

Using the extraordinary power of less.

Certified Facilitator Private Consultation Group Leader

Linda Dirksengale

778 422 0070 linda.simplicityparenting@gmail.com

FREELANCE WRITING SERVICES

Maeve Maguire www.describewriting.com maeve@describewriting.com

Website Content Promotional Communications Technical Writing

Rental Space

Affordable Rental Space at Whippletree Junction!

Be a part of the new Whippletree!

For info please contact Adrienne 250 510 6596 or Alice 250 709-2779 aliceinduncan@hotmail.com Veterinarians HOLISTIC VETERINARY HOUSECALLS IN THE COWICHAN VALLEY Dr Brenda A Bernhardt ‘ Sharing the Care ’

250.932.5552 www.cowichanvet.com

We hope you enjoyed this month’s issue of the Cowichan Valley Voice!

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