Country Grocer Friends & Family Magazine Summer 2019

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C O U N T R Y G R O C E R ’ S Q U A R T E R LY F O O D & L I F E S T Y L E M A G A Z I N E

Friendss Family Summer 2019 | Complimentary

REVVED UP FOR THE RIDE HOW GREEN IS YOUR OCEAN? Sustainable seafood for your table

Motorcycle show supports veterans’ care

CYCLE OF LIFE Riding for Island hospice care

Recipes I Community Events I Pets I What’s in Store countrygrocer.com

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Celebrate summer with us!

Welcome to the summer issue of Country Grocer’s Friends & Family Magazine!

It’s always an exciting time in the Vancouver Island grocery business as we welcome the fresh produce and products from Island growers, like those from Vancouver Island Farm PETER CAVIN, Director Products.

COUNTRY GROCER We also invite you to enjoy and learn more about the fresh, sustainable seafood from Green Ocean you’ll find in your local store.

While focused on our support for local growers and producers, the Country Grocer family involves so much more.

In this issue of Friends & Family, we meet those people making a difference through the Boys & Girls Club of Victoria, but also those busy in the community from our own team.

People like Maurice Gendreault, assistant manager of the Cobble Hill store, who over the years has raised thousands of dollars for local charities through the annual Country Grocer-sponsored motorcycle show.

And others like our Cycle of Life team – our biggest ever! – riding 200 kilometers in support of Vancouver Island Hospice Care.

What’s your favourite part of summer? No matter what has you singing the praises of the season, we have you covered – enjoy!

IN THIS ISSUE

Wedding flowers DIY

6

A guide to getting creative for your bouquets & boutonnieres

8

> RECIPES – PAGE 14

Maca Strawberry Chocolate

Smoothie

Power Peanut Butter Balls Maca Coconut Sauce ON THE COVER Maurice Gandreault, Cobble Hill Country Grocer Jennifer Blyth photo Editor Jennifer Blyth jennifer.blyth@blackpress.ca Group Publisher Penny Sakamoto psakamoto@blackpress.ca Victoria News Publisher Michelle Cabana mcabana@blackpress.ca Advertising Sales Patty Doering pdoering@vicnews.com Production Janice Marshall Cara Robbins Circulation 250-480-3285

4

HOW GREEN IS YOUR OCEAN?

HUMMINGBIRD SURVIVAL KIT

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blackpress.ca 818 Broughton St. Victoria, BC V8W 1E4 Friends & Family magazine is published quarterly by Country Grocer and Black Press. The points of view or opinions expressed herein are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of the publisher of Friends & Family.

The contents of Friends & Family magazine are protected by copyright, including the designed advertising.

Reproduction is prohibited without written consent of the publisher.

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Friends&Family » Summer 2019 | countrygrocer.com 3

Icelandic cod is among the varieties of responsibly harvested seafood species available from Green Ocean at your Country Grocer store.

How Green is your ocean?

JENNIFER BLYTH When Glenn Grandy says the fishing industry is in his blood, he’s not kidding.

Hailing from Garnish, Newfoundland, Glenn’s greatgrandfather was a fisherman on the original Bluenose back in the 1920s under Skipper Angus Walters.

Drawing on that heritage, and his own decades working in various areas of the seafood sector, Glenn cast an eye to the future in 2007, founding Green Ocean.

Travelling the globe for the past 14 years, Glenn has developed a vast knowledge of the global seafood industry, an industry that has changed dramatically in recent years.

From Iceland to Thailand to Argentina, “I personally travel to all the places we source food from,” Glenn says.

In 2017, the Green Ocean brand was acquired by Tree of Life Canada, which aims to meet the needs of health-conscious consumers living a wholesome, healthy and ethically responsible lifestyle.

Today Glenn heads up their seafood division, sharing the Green Ocean brand across Canada and launching Organic & Wild Shrimp programs, plus the Wild Icelandic Fish products available in the Country Grocer fish freezer.

“We’re the first to have done a frozen retail product from Iceland,” Glenn notes.

While frozen, the quality of the product and harvesting techniques yield a quality more akin to fresh, Glenn says, pointing to their branding that supports their underlying goals of sustainability and transparency: “Fish with nothing to hide” and “Shrimp with nothing to hide.”

Within 12 to 36 hours of being caught in those cold northern waters, the fish is processed and frozen and on its

4 » Friends&Family » Summer 2019 | countrygrocer.com

Glenn Grandy, founder of Green Ocean.

way to you. Additional techniques like inner vacuum sealing further support that quality by preventing ice build-up in the freezer.

“When you thaw it out, that fish is going to taste and perform like a freshcaught fish,” he says.

Sustainable and ethical As an OceanWise product that’s also Marine Stewardship Council-certified, Green Ocean seafood is caught using sustainable and ethical practices with fisheries in Argentina and Iceland.

Green Ocean also works hand-inhand with both the fishery and local government to ensure all wild catches are responsibly harvested.

For consumers, it means the opportunity to try a great-tasting product that may be a little different from the usual West Coast seafood.

The ferocious looking Wolffish, for example, gets its name from the sharp protruding teeth which it uses to consume various species of shellfish off the coast of Iceland. While Wolffish is a species virtually unheard of here on the West Coast, it’s considered a delicacy in many parts of Europe. Boasting a pearly white flesh

Wolffish en Papillote

Serves: Serves 2 Ingredients • 2 x 170 gram portions of GO WILD Icelandic Wolffish • 50 ml olive oil • 200 grams mixed vegetables cut and blanched (carrot, mixed peppers, onions, green beans).

• 1 lemon cut in slices • 2 10 x 10 pieces parchment paper • 7 grams salt and pepper Method 1. Place the vegetables and lemon in a bowl and toss with the olive oil.

2. Season the wolffish with the salt and pepper.

3. Fill each piece of parchment with

with a mild to sweet flavour and firm texture, many consider it similar to halibut.

“Consumers want to know what they’re buying and what they’re feed-

half the vegetables, then top with fish.

5. Fold in paper to form a square that totally seals in the fish and vegetables 6. Place in 375 degree oven for approximately 15 to 18 minutes until fish is fully cooked.

7. Serve on a plate and open at the table to enjoy all the aromas.

Find more recipes at goseafood.info

ing their families, and I’m confident that we have the right fishing and processing partners that share our values to help them do that,” Glenn says.

Strawberries are here...

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We offer varieties of jams: Blackberry/jalapeño, blackberry/strawberry, loganberry, Also syrups: Blackberry, strawberry tayberry, and raspberry. strawberry/blackberry/tayberry and strawberry and strawberry/rhurbarb.

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Friends&Family » Summer 2019 | countrygrocer.com » 5

Wedding plans?

DIY! JENNIFER BLYTH

Is a wedding in your summer plans?

Give your event a personal touch by designing and creating some or all of your own floral arrangements and decorations.

Floral designer Jennifer Stephens, from Country Grocer’s Chase River store, shows you how!

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Try Nana’s Kitchens Samosas from your local Country Grocer.

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Start by browsing magazines and Pinterest for bouquets, boutonnieres and centrepieces that catch your eye, collecting your favourites for inspiration. YouTube is another great resource, but do try to keep designs within your experience level, Jennifer advises.

HINT: Do you have vases, containers or other accessories on hand already that you can incorporate?

Avoid “big box” or online sources for flowers, which will likely come from a great distance and will fade much sooner than locally sourced blooms and greens, Jennifer notes.

Country Grocer, for example, sources most of its flowers from right here on Vancouver Island – including sought-after blooms like roses and gerberas! – and because of the volume buying through seven stores, they can typically bring them in more affordably than many florist shops. Looking for something special? They can order those in too!

Remember to leave enough time for ordering, especially if you’re needing large amounts or some more unique flowers.

As a rule of thumb, it’s a good idea to place your order about a month ahead, but checking in with

your floral shop a few months ahead can provide a guideline, not to mention a variety of valuable tips.

Don’t forget tools and accessories you may need: floral scissors, pruners, green floral tape, corsage pins, floral wire, floral foam/oasis and ribbon.

HINT: Avoid scheduling your event around a holiday, such as Mother’s Day, Valentine’s Day or Christmas, when flowers are already in high demand!

4

3

Use flowers of different sizes – larger blooms like peonies, hydrangeas and gerberas, plus medium-sized flowers like roses and carnations, and small flowers like baby’s breath, plus a variety of greens of different shades and textures.

HINT: Incorporate elements with a personal connection too, Jennifer says, pointing to the artificial blueberries tucked into these boutonnieres that recall her grandmother, and the sea star on the flower girl bouquet opposite that reflects her own journey to the Island from the Mainland.

Once you get your flowers home, remove all the plastic and wrapping, trim stems about an inch up on a 45-degree angle and set them in a clean vase with fresh water.

Keep flowers in a cool, shady spot like a covered back porch or garage to help keep them fresh. Do not put them in the fridge, which is too cold and where ethylene gas emitted by fruit will turn your flowers. (The exception is prepared corsages and boutonnieres without a water source).

HINT: As a rule of thumb, make centrepieces about two days ahead, allowing about two to three hours for two people to make 15 centerpieces.

Make bouquets the day before, allowing about an hour for the bridal bouquet and about 40 min-

utes for bridesmaids.

Prepare corsages and boutonnieres as late as possible as they won’t have any water.

Friends&Family » Summer 2019 | countrygrocer.com » 7

Riding for the

Cycle of Life A record 12 riders will put pedal to pavement for Country Grocer’s contingent in this year’s two-day ride in support of hospice care

Jennifer Blyth photo

Four of Country Grocer’s record 12-member team cycling for this year’s Cycle of Life for hospice care on Vancouver Island: Wyatt Harris, Beth Harris, Dave Hubscher and Shelley Turner.

JENNIFER BLYTH The Cycle of Life Tour may be a lot of fun, but that doesn’t mean it isn’t serious business for the dozens of riders hopping on their bikes in support of Vancouver Island hospice care.

In fact, the Country Grocer contingent is aiming to break a few records this year!

When the Island-grown grocer’s 12-member team – their biggest ever – joins riders from across Vancouver

Island in the seventh annual two-day Cycle of Life Tour, they’ll also be aiming to set a record fundraising total, says Dave Hubscher, Country Grocer’s Director of Meat Operations.

After raising more than $26,000 last

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8 » Friends&Family » Summer 2019 | countrygrocer.com

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year, the team aims to do even better this year, buoyed by the camaraderie of friends, family and co-workers – including Chef Michael Williams, who will cook an amazing dinner for all the riders on Salt Spring Saturday night.

Dave, embarking on his sixth ride this year, knows first-hand the importance of the ride to Island families, after his father received hospice care several years ago.

“Having had my Dad receive hospice care, then having the support of hospice after his passing, it has brought all of the pieces together for me,” he says.

“The doctors and nurses at Victoria Hospice are amazing, they really are a great group. With so many of us using hospice care at some point, it’s nice to know it’s there when you need it.”

Vancouver Island hospices rely heavily on community donations and events like the Cycle of Life Tour to continue providing care and comfort for dying patients and their loved ones.

This year, 125 riders will pedal nearly 200 kilometres across the Saanich Inlet, Cowichan Valley and Salt Spring Island, in support of eight hospices on Vancouver Island: Victoria Hospice Society; Salt Spring Island Hospice Society; Cowichan Valley Hospice Society; Nanaimo Community Hospice Society; Oceanside Hospice Society; Pacific Rim Hospice Society; Comox Valley Hospice Society and Campbell River Hospice Society.

To learn more, to volunteer or to sponsor a rider today, visit cycleoflifetour.ca

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Thanks to everyone who supported the fundraising efforts of Beth Harris, Human Resources Manager for Country Grocer’s Royal Oak, Esquimalt and Cobble Hill stores. Shedding her 21 inches of curly brown locks in exchange for a pixie cut, Beth aimed to raise $1,000 for the Cycle of Life Tour. When her new ‘do’ was done, Beth had raised more than $1,200 – truly a cut above!

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Indulgences Sensational salmon!

Can’t get out on the boat? Indulge your love for smoked salmon with these treats from the Island’s own Hardy Buoys, in a variety of yummy flavours.

Find it in your Country Grocer seafood case.

Make waves with Whitewater

Flavours don’t get any richer than these amazing marinades and vinaigrettes from Whitewater Cooks, from BC cookbook author and restaurateur Shelley Adams. From a maple balsamic dressing to a miso ginger marinade, these are sure to be summer favourites.

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10 » Friends&Family » Summer 2019 | countrygrocer.com

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Great for the grill Burgers get a lift your taste buds will thank you for with these ready-for-the barbecue patties! Choose from Belmont Meats’ organic, antibiotic-free or grass-fed varieties; the Top Grass Cattle Company’s grass-fed beef burgers; and the Island’s own Island Pastures burgers – grassfed, grass finished and hormoneand antibiotic-free.

Green solutions Love your Island-grown microgreens? Take them home in a bigger, more convenient 130-gram size, available in the produce cooler.

Be summer savvy Visit the nutrition aisle for summer-savvy products including Thinksport sunscreens and Aura Cacia moisturizing oils your skin will thank you for.

Don’t forget electrolytes when it’s warm outside, and if you’re active, look for a protein like North Coast Naturals’ pumpkin protein, featuring branched-chain amino acids and no sweeteners.

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Friends&Family » Summer 2019 | countrygrocer.com » 11

IN THE COMMUNITY

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Providing opportunities for youth to flourish For more than 25 years, South Island families have opened their homes and hearts to youth involved with the Boys & Girls Clubs of Greater Victoria who are in need of a safe space to live.

With the goal of helping youth return to their families or move toward independence, Care Families provide a safe and supportive environment where youth can practice and learn healthy and positive skills, explains the club’s Tyler Olson.

Operating similar to foster care, Care Families support youth involved in various Boys & Girls programs, ranging in length from three to 12 months. Compensation is provided.

Families with no other children who want to make a positive difference in the lives of youth age 13 to 21 are encouraged to contact program coordinator

Debi O’Boyle at doboyle@bgcvic.org or call 250-384-9133 ext. 202. Regular information sessions are also scheduled.

The program is just one of many initiatives the Boys & Girls Club of Greater Victoria offers the community.

The organization works to provide a safe, supportive place where children, youth and families can experience new

opportunities, overcome barriers, build positive relationships, and develop confidence and skills for life.

Coming up this summer are Outdoor Adventure Day Camps for children age 5 and 12, and Urban Adventure Camp, packed with daily adventures for children age 6 to 12.

During the school year, licensed before and afterschool care offers children the chance to experience an array of activities, including crafts, out trips, themed activities, sports and more.

Additional programs offer inspiration and education for youth and families.

Learn more at bgcvic.org.

Learn about Boys and Girls Club programs in the Cowichan Valley at cowichan. bigbrothersbigsisters.ca; for the Central Island programs, visit bgccvi.com.

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Fresh from Island fields to you!

JENNIFER BLYTH Where can you get the freshest of the Island’s produce, without having to drive from farm to farm?

Your Country Grocer produce section, thanks to the efforts of Vancouver Island Farm Products and our local farmers, of course!

“The big thing we’re really proud of is that we don’t warehouse anything. Everything is shipped right from the farm,” says Jaymie Collins, general manager of Vancouver Island Farm Products. “Flavour-

wise, there’s nothing else comparable.”

For close to a decade, the company has represented a group of fruit and vegetable growers from Victoria to Port Alberni to Campbell River. By looking after the business side of marketing and distribution, it lets the farmers do what they do best: growing.

Representing many second- and thirdgeneration farms on Vancouver Island, the quality and freshness of the locally grown goods speaks volumes to local chefs and home cooks alike.

“There’s huge support for Islandgrown goods,” Jaymie says. At the same time, “we’re continually trying to inform people and let them know we’re here and we’re growing this amazing produce.”

While winter offers a variety of storage crops and root veggies, come March, the greenhouses start producing and the fields go full-on through fall.

And as innovators, Island farmers also continue to try new varieties to see what works well and what customers want, Jaymie says.

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Friends&Family » Summer 2019 | countrygrocer.com » 13

RECIPES from Chef Michael

Maca Strawberry Chocolate Smoothie

Power Peanut Butter Balls

Using the benefits it offers, not to mention the amazing flavour within maca powder, this smoothie is sure to nourish and please at the same time.

The chocolate in the protein powder, the nuttiness from the Maca and the strawberry go together very well.

These delicious clean and nutritious balls are a fantastic recipe to make up and have on hand.

They have a lovely taste and texture out of the fridge, but can live on the counter for a few days as well.

Ingredients: 1 heaping cup frozen strawberries ¾ cup milk (any kind) 1 serving chocolate protein powder PVL Sport Whey 1 heaping tsp Ecoideas maca powder ½ tsp pure vanilla extract Method: 1. If your strawberries are whole, you may want to zap them in the microwave for 30 seconds so they can blend up a little easier.

2. Add the strawberries, milk, protein powder, maca powder and vanilla to a blender and puree until smooth.

3. Serve immediately.

Variations: • Banana is always a good addition to a smoothie and will make this one a little more substantial.

Ingredients: 1 cup oat flour 1 cup all natural peanut butter 1 Tbsp vanilla 1 Tbsp honey ½ cup whole grain rice cereal ¼ cup nut meal (any ground nuts) 150g dark chocolate Method: 1. If you do not have oat flour, you can make your own. Add the oats to a food processor or blender and grind until you achieve a fairly smooth flour.

2. Add the flour to a medium-sized mixing bowl.

3. Add the peanut butter, vanilla and honey to the bowl with the oats and stir very well until the mixture is totally incorporated.

4. Now add the rice cereal and the nut meal and gently stir to incorporate.

5. Once the mixture is fully and evenly incorporated, form into balls. You can make them as big or small as you like. I prefer a size slightly smaller than a ping pong ball.

6. Now it’s time to coat in chocolate. Chop the chocolate into small pieces if you are not using chips and set up a double boiler (a mixing bowl set on top of a pot with a ½ inch of simmering water in it.

7. Once the chocolate is melted, let it cool a bit and then coat each of the balls in the chocolate. Place them onto a parchmentlined plate for the chocolate to harden.

8. You can keep them in the fridge if you don’t plan on eating them in the next week or so, or if you like them cold.

Variations: • Add ½ cup of minced prunes for added sweetness and bit of a moister texture.

14 » Friends&Family » Summer 2019 | countrygrocer.com

Maca Coconut Sauce Servings: 4 Preparation Time: 10 minutes Cooking Time: 10 minutes This sauce is super delicious and so, so easy.

Not only that, but since we’re incorporating maca powder and using coconut milk, it’s incredibly nutritious.

Ingredients: 2 Tbsp coconut oil ¼ of a red onion, fine diced 4 cloves garlic, minced 1 cup coconut milk, stirred 1 Tbsp tamari soy sauce 3 Tbsp maca powder ½ teaspoon fresh ground pepper Method: 1. Preheat a small pot or fry pan on medium heat. Once the pan is hot add the coconut oil and then the onions and garlic and sauté, stirring regularly.

2. Sauté until lightly browned all over.

3. Add the coconut milk, soy sauce, maca powder and pepper. Whisk together until the maca powder is fully dissolved.

4. Now serve this sauce over vegetables, meat, eggs.

Variations: • If you want, add 2 cups of sliced mushrooms to the pan about half-way through browning the onions and garlic.

Continue sautéing, stirring regularly, until the mushrooms are nicely browned.

CHEF MICHAEL WILLIAMS

The Mighty Sprout So often throughout my career people have asked me “Chef, what is your favourite dish to cook?”

It seems like a logical question to ask a chef but I have never been able to give a straight answer.

Paella comes to mind for sure and it is certainly one of my favourites. Korean fried chicken is becoming a new fascination, but ultimately, what state I am in and what time of year it is plays a huge role in how I might answer that question.

Recently, though, I had a realization.

Whether it’s the middle of winter and I’m creating an amazing cabbage-based salad, or the height of spring and I’m enjoying a bowl of tender mixed greens, salad is a dish that always gets me excited.

Boring right!?

No! Not at all.

The “Salads” category of my recipe collection is proof that salads need not be boring.

Go to the recipe section on Countrygrocer.com and click on salads and you’ll see for yourself.

As many of you know, I have always been a proponent of eating lots of veggies, and what better way to do that than eating salad daily.

One of the most nutritious salad ingredients you can include in your routine is sprouts and shoots.

These little guys are loaded with nutrients for their impending growth spurt and when we eat them, we get to

take advantage of their readily available nutrient content.

When I say sprouts, I’m thinking of all manner of pea shoots, bean sprouts, alfalfa, broccoli and more.

I usually make use of these little marvels as a component of a salad, a wrap or a sandwich.

But salad, salad, salad. That’s my go-to.

You can add sprouts to any salad without needing a recipe. Just add pea shoots, for example, to a salad as one of the greens (but a super-charged powerhouse one) in a mixed green salad, or try adding broccoli sprouts as the star (the super hero nutrition star) to a broccoli slaw.

Didn’t you know that all sprouts and shoots have an “S” on their chest?

Of course, you can use sprouts as a potent replacement to lettuce in a sandwich, burger or wrap or how about as a bed to nestle a perfectly cooked chicken breast on?

Both sprouts and shoots are fantastic additions to tacos. There are so many options with what Eatmore Sprouts and Foodybiz microgreens (my go-to sprout sources) provide.

Mixed bean sprouts, for example, are a beautiful, toothsome mix of sprouted lentils and beans that make delicious salads on their own or as a salad component but you can also add them for textured delish in a stir-fry or pasta.

And the beauty of Eatmore and Foody-

Earth’s Option

biz is that they’re located on Vancouver Island so you can feel good about using your hard-earned dollars to support people and business owners in our community.

I used to neglect including sprouts in my diet, but no longer. They are incorporated into my feeding opportunities often and I feel great anytime I am eating lots of greens.

So the next time you are in the produce section at Country Grocer, think about picking up some sprouts and enjoy some delicious vitality.

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Friends&Family » Summer 2019 | countrygrocer.com » 15

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7 great Island-owned & operated locations, open 7 days a week.

You’ll feel like family. www.countrygrocer.com

NUTRITION NOTES WITH NANCY HOWSE

Feeling the love for

Fermented foods Eating for overall gut health and immunity Welcome to spring and summer on Vancouver Island! I say it’s paradise!

I love the fresh produce we have in abundance here, including choices found in our community markets, and of course at Country Grocer. We pride ourselves on local selections and we are blessed with an abundance.

Something many people are interested in these days are fermented foods. They come with many health benefits, especially surrounding intestinal health and immune balancing benefits.

Historically, fermentation preserved food, prevented spoilage, and helped maintain nutrient value.

Fermented foods often are accompanied by a strong pungent flavour.

The list includes kimchi, dairy products, sauerkraut, pickles, kombucha,

the list goes on.

Fermentation, in a nutshell, can help to restore bacterial balance, and serve to make us less vulnerable to intestinal illness.

For example, kefir is easily digested, and helps colonize our digestive tract with beneficial mircoorganisms.

While fermented foods have many benefits, some possible downsides have come to light.

Fermented soy (high intake) was associated with an increased risk of gastric cancer. Like many things in life, sometimes we run the risk of ‘too much of a good thing.’

For every miracle food, there can be a down-side for someone.

The wisdom to take from this is to listen carefully to your own body and keep yourself informed.

In a nutshell, I like to tell my customers that ‘you cannot out supplement a bad diet or lifestyle.’

Also, while you’re enjoying our amazing summer, keep yourself well

hydrated! Fun in the sun can take a turn when we’re overexposed to heat and activity.

My favourite go-to products are electrolyte-containing supplements.

Some I like to choose are Ener-C (made in BC!), Concentrace Trace Minerals and Nuun tablets. All these products are convenient, budgetfriendly and available in our supplement aisles at all locations.

Coconut water is also worthy of a shout out, as the electrolyte balance perfectly mimics the human body profile, keeping us easily hydrated.

So enjoy the lake, the ocean, the trails and the great outdoors, just don’t forget to stay hydrated and remember to include sunscreen and aloe vera gel in your backpack or beach bag.

And come see us for all of our fresh offerings. We always love to see you!

Disclaimer: The information provided is for information only. For proper diagnosis, please see a qualified practitioner.

Nancy Howse is nutrition manager at Country Grocer’s Bowen Road store.

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Friends&Family » Summer 2019 | countrygrocer.com » 17

100% ISLAND-RAISED, FARM FRESH

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MEET THE TEAM

Country Grocer career leads to Cobble Hill With more than two decades with standard, but my team do so well,” he Country Grover under his belt – not to says. mention greeting customers at four difDeeply involved in the local comferent stores – many Friends & Family munity, “there’s basically no one we say readers will already know Jeff Oud. ‘No’ to,” Jeff says.

Most recently the manager of Cobble Highlights through the year include Hill Country Grocer, the annual HallowJeff joined the Islandeen bonfire welcomgrown, family-run ing families from company 21 years “I love working with across the Valley, and ago. the summer motorpeople. I do hold After 10 years in cycle show and car myself and our store Duncan, Jeff split gatherings (See page to a high standard, but 24 for more details). his time over both Nanaimo stores for “As long as we my team do so well.” seven years before keep this happening, joining the Cobble the sky is the limit, Hill team about four years ago. really!”

As a full-service location with about When not at the store, you’ll often 80 team members, Cobble Hill is a find Jeff camping and kayaking with destination store serving the south wife Shayna, who works at Country Cowichan Valley, and the perfect fit Grocer’s Island Independent Buyers for Jeff. “I love working with people. I Group warehouse, and their son and do hold myself and our store to a high daughter, age 12 and 7.

Jeff Oud, manager, Country Grocer Cobble Hill.

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Friends&Family » Summer 2019 | countrygrocer.com » 19

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20 » Friends&Family » Summer 2019 | countrygrocer.com

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Friends&Family » Summer 2019 | countrygrocer.com » 21

SUMMER CAMPS!

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PETS

Part of the family: Miika Meet Miika, an active, adventurous 10-month-old husky and the newest addition to Victoria’s Lucoe family.

Whether it’s weekday adventures with her doggie daycare pals or hikes with her family, there’s nothing Miika likes better than exploring the woods, hills and beaches of her Vancouver Island home ... except maybe snuggling up for a well-earned sleep back at home!

Who’s your four-legged best friend?

Cat, dog, rabbit? We’d love to meet them!

Send along a photo and a few words about what makes your furry friend part of the family to Friends & Family editor Jennifer Blyth at jennifer.blyth@blackpress.ca

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Friends&Family » Summer 2019 | countrygrocer.com » 23

Maurice Gaudreault, community relations coordinator at the Cobble Hill Country Grocer, organizes the annual motorcycle show in the store parking lot, this year in support of local veterans and Cockrell House in Victoria.

Jennifer Blyth photo

Bike, car enthusiasts revved up for summer JENNIFER BLYTH

Reserve, who are homeless or under-housed.

Whether your favourite “Lots of my friends are in the ride has two wheels or four, military and are veterans and you’ll want to make sure a visit they raised the awareness of to the Cobble Hill Country the impacts of PTSD, which for Grocer is on your calendar for some can lead to homelessness,” Aug. 17.

Maurice says.

The motorcycle show gets Later that day, classic car things rolling earlier in the day, enthusiasts are expected to stop setting up in the store parking by in a preview of the Beverly lot from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m., Corners Show & Shine coming says organizer and Maurice the next day, Aug. 18, to the Gaudreault, community relaCowichan Sports Plex. tions coordinator.

Hosted by the Cowichan The Beverly Corners Show & Shine is in Duncan Aug. 18; An annual highlight among C ruisers Car Club, the 20th the Rod Run gathers at Cobble Hill Country Grocer Aug. 17.

Island enthusiasts, highlights annual event showcases vehicles this year include a display from from antiques and collectibles to fundraising barbecue, this year in support Jay Burnham’s award-winning Freakshow of local veterans and Cockrell House, in street rods and motorbikes.

Custom Choppers in Mill Bay. As a prelude to Sunday’s Show & Shine, Colwood, Maurice says. many of the same cars will participate in a “We’ll get motorcycles from all over the Cockrell House is operated by the nonRod Run the evening before, gathering at Island – everyone gets together and we’ll profit SMVIZ Veterans Housing Society, the Cobble Hill Country Grocer, before dehave a few prizes; it’s just a really fun day,” which works to provide shelter, food and parting around 6 p.m. and cruising through Maurice says. support services to former members of the Cowichan Valley.

Be sure to come hungry and enjoy a the Canadian Armed Forces, Regular and

24 » Friends&Family » Summer 2019 | countrygrocer.com

Dan Dertien, VIHR.ca photo

TIDBITS

CONTEST

What are your favourite Island Good flavours?

Country Grocer had another sensational float for this spring’s parades, designed and built by the amazing David Gray.

Thanks to the Esquimalt Buccaneer Days crew for sharing this photo!

HERE NOW!

What’s your go-to Island Good product grown, raised or produced here on Vancouver Island?

Share your thoughts for a chance to win an amazing – and oh-so-delicious – gift basket of Island Good products!

Send along your favourite must-have to Friends & Family editor Jennifer Blyth at jennifer.blyth@ blackpress.ca to be en-

tered to win!

We’ll share some of your favourites in the fall edition of the magazine.

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WWW.SGPOWER.COM Friends&Family » Summer 2019 | countrygrocer.com » 25

Country Kudos All-Inclusive A ll-ILiving nclusive Senior All-IncSluensiov reLSiveinnigor Li ving

When it comes to providing great service, Country Grocer team members are repeat performers.

In fact, Royal Oak’s Tom Grauwiler received two Country Oak Bay (Victoria Kudos in recent months and six ) | 250-5 O9a5k-6B2ay (V from customers: 57 ictoriacompliments ) | 25 95-6 “Tom 0is-5 always 2so57 happy doing his job on a busy day!”wrote one customer, while another said, “I really wanted to thank Kris Ellis him for being so sweet with my nine-year-old son! He was very helpful and kind!”

Kris Ellis also earns kudos for her amazing attitude. “Just so www.shan great! I love coming to your store just to hear her laugh and nonoaks.c see her smile,” one customer reflected. “Kris is always friendly Baptist Hou om sing | Enha nced Senio and helpful. Special service and help last week.” rs Living | S ince 1964 “A great ambassador for the Country Grocer store. Greatly appreciate her pointers on care for one’s plants especially bedding plants – always warns one not to put stuff out to early.

All around just a wonderful lady!”

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26 » Friends&Family » Summer 2019 | countrygrocer.com

If you’ve received outstanding customer service, share your story on our Employee Recognition form and submit your Kudos in-store or online at countrygrocer.com

Visit Telegraph Cove Resort, where history meets nature.

Explore our state of the art Whale Interpretive Centre

New 24 room lodge, 2 queen beds in each room with spectacular views!

120 Site wooded RV Park & Campsite.

Campfires permitted-firewood available.

Wastell Manor, 5 room Antique Hotel.

Fully contained cabins, houses and condos for rent.

Many have woodstoves.

140 berth Marina and launch ramp.

Marine gas, coffee shop, general store, shops, wireless Internet available.

Killer Whale Cafe, Old Satery Pub Salmon Barbeques on Wednesday & Saturday evenings at the restaurant.

Great Sport Fishing Area Fishing Charters for Salmon & Halibut available.

NEW Trailhead for Blinkhorn Trail

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info@grizzlycanada.com www.grizzlycanada.com Friends&Family Âť Summer 2019 | countrygrocer.com Âť 27

IN YOUR COMMUNITY ESQUIMALT & VICTORIA

COWICHAN VALLEY

June & July – The Victoria Highlanders FC take to the pitch at Royal Athletic Park, competing in the United Soccer League. For a full schedule, ticket details and more information, visit highlandersfc.ca.

May 26 – Children’s Bike Rodeo. Decorate your bike, learn the rules of the road and more, 10am to 1pm at Kerry Park Recreation Centre. Free

June 1 – Neighbourhood Party, Esquimalt Rec Centre Parking Lot, 527 Fraser St, 11am to 2pm. Fun for all ages from Esquimalt Recreation and a host of community supporters! Info: Esquimalt.ca

May 31 – Family Literacy Day, 4 to 6pm at Island Savings Centre. Free admission. Info: cvrd.bc.ca

June 6 – Headway Charity Golf Classic at Olympic View Golf Course, a great day of golfing, plus cocktail reception, buffet dinner, prizes and more in support of Victoria Epilepsy and Parkinson’s Centre. Info: headwayvictoriagolf.com Aug. 17 & 18 – Pet-a-Palooza, a free, pet-friendly event with entertainment, wiener dog races, adventure park, swag bags and more at in Esquimalt Bullen Park Info: petapaloozawest.comvictoria

admission. Info: cvrd.bc.ca

BC SHARING At all Country Grocer communities – Support local food banks by looking for the BC Sharing donation pads at the till. Simply add $2 to your grocery bill and 100 per cent goes to your local food bank!

LAKE COWICHAN & AREA June 8 & 9 – Lake Days, celebrating the community of Lake Cowichan.

June 14 to 16 – Sunfest, featuring Jason Aldean, Terri Clarke, Washboard Union and many more at Laketown Roach. Info: sunfestconcerts.com Aug. 1 to 4 – Cowichan Valley Blue Grass Festival at Laketown Roach. Info: cowichanbluegrass.com

Aug. 23 to 25 – Cowichan Valley Wine Festival, featuring 11 Cowichan Wineries offering wine tastings, music and food. Info: tourismcowichan.com/ wine-festival Sept. 14 – Lake to Lake Walk, Marathon & Half Marathon, from Shawnigan Lake to Cowichan Lake, walk or run the full marathon (42.2 km) or half marathon (21.1 km) for the charity of your choice along the Cowichan Valley Trail. Info: cvrd.

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28 » Friends&Family » Summer 2019 | countrygrocer.com

Heat exchanger, cleaning and repair, Gas tank repairs.

Air conditioning service and repairs.

Exhaust, Brakes, Tune ups.

Phone: 250.381.2421 640 Hillside Avenue

townsideautomotive.com

bc.ca/3041/Lake-to-LakeMarathon

nanaimochamber.bc.ca Aug. 8 to 17 – Nanaimo Fringe Festival, featuring 10 companies performing at Harbour City Theatre and other venues around town.

Info: nanaimofringe.com

NANAIMO May 19 – Westwood Lake Triathlon 2019, featuring Sprint and Standard courses in this epic venue. Info: dynamicraceevents.com/ westwood-lake-triathlon/ May 24 to 26 – Vancouver Island Tribute Festival, world-class tribute artists from across North America perform at the Parksville Community Centre in support of the Nanaimo and District Hospital Foundation.

Info: facebook.com/ vanisleTributefest/ May 31 – Nanaimo Chamber of Commerce 25th annual Members Open 2019, with shotgun start at Cottonwood Golf Course at 1pm; dinner and auction at 7pm. Guests, colleagues, clients, and futuremembers welcome. Info:

Aug. 22 to 25 – Nanaimo’s Summertime Blues Festival – a highlight of the summer entertainment calendar. nanaimobluesfestival.com

SALT SPRING July 1 – Salt Spring Cruisers Car Club Show ‘N Shine, 10am to 3pm at Hydro Field, at Jackson Avenue and Rainbow Road. Info: saltspringcruisers.com.

Sept. 29 – 20th annual Salt Spring Island Apple Festival, celebrating the 450+ varieties of apples grown organically on Salt Spring, with an apple history dating back to 1860. Info: saltspringapplefestival.org

TOWN OF

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August 16 - 18, 2019

Bands, Vendors, Food Kiosks, Beer Garden, Children’s Performers & Activities, Logger Sports, a Water Shed Party with Band, Plus so much more!

Celebrate Lake Cowichan’s 75th, it’s worth the drive! www.75andbeyond.com

New Exhibit Now Open!

BC FOREST DISCOVERY CENTRE 100 Acres of Discovery, Education and Fun.

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Narrow Gauge Railway Steam Train Forested Trails Ranger Station

INFORMATION – (250) 715-1113

1930 Logging Camp School House Post Office Blacksmith Shop

Sawmill Antique Vehicles Logging Trucks Gift Shop

(ON THE TRANS CANADA HIGHWAY)

WWW.BCFORESTDISCOVERYCENTRE.COM

Friends&Family » Summer 2019 | countrygrocer.com » 29

North Coast Trail Shuttle Cape Scott Water Taxi

Port Hardy to the Cape Scott North Coast Trail

The Cape Scott North Coast Trail Shuttle Runs from May 1 - Sept. 15 Cell: 250-902-8208 www.northcoasttrailshuttle.com

7 Community Locations COBBLE HILL 1400 Cowichan Bay Rd. 250-743-5639 7am to 9pm 7 days per week LAKE COWICHAN 83 Lake Cowichan Rd. 250-749-6335 7am to 10pm 7 days per week

SALT Summer ISLAND 374 Lower Ganges Rd. 250-537-4144 7am to 10pm 7 days per week

CHASE RIVER (NANAIMO) 82 Twelfth St. 250-753-7545 7am to 10pm 7 days per week

ROYAL OAK (VICTORIA) 4420 West Saanich Rd. 250-708-3919 7am to 10pm 7 days per week

BOWEN ROAD (NANAIMO) 1800 Dufferin Cresc.

250-591-5525 7am to 10pm 7 days per week

ESQUIMALT (VICTORIA) 1153 Esquimalt Rd. 250-382-5515 7am to 10pm 7 days per week

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Friends&Family » Summer 2019 | countrygrocer.com » 31

ROSSDOWN QUALITY

HAS ARRIVED AT THE DELI COUNTER After three generations of serving farm-to-plate fresh products, we’re proud to introduce our NEW Oven Roasted Turkey Breast.

Our recipe is simple: Our free-range, raised without antibiotics turkeys are slow roasted with the finest all-natural ingredients.

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