Country Grocer Friends 7 Family Magazine Fall 2014

Country Grocer’s quarterly food and lifestyle magazine

Friends &Family Fall 2014 | Complimentary

Pumpkin time Halloween happenings on the Island

Happy Anniversary!

Country Grocer turns 30 www.countrygrocer.com

TM

Welcome!

As we enter our 30th year serving Vancouver Island and Salt Spring, it’s nice to sit back and reflect on what a wonderful journey it has been.

Since our earliest days in PETER CAVIN, DIRECTOR, Victoria and COUNTRY GROCER Nanaimo, then as we extended the Country Grocer family into the Cowichan Valley and Salt Spring, food has been our passion. Our goal from the beginning has been not only to provide our customers with quality products, exceptional service and competitive prices, but to do it while supporting our communities, farmers and producers.

We know this is also important to our customers, so thank you for helping us keep it local.

While we take our work seriously, we also like to have a little fun, so this fall we’ve teamed up with Black Press to engage you, our extended family, to help us celebrate our anniversary. It’s a fun promotion and I’m sure you’ll enjoy it. Read all about it on page 5...and let’s see you flash us your best smile!

IN THIS ISSUE

Happy Anniversary!

Country Grocer turns 30

16

Halloween events around the Island

4 14

> RECIPES: Thai Curry Squash Roast Grilled Pear with Lemon Honey Ricotta

10

Molasses Spiced Beef Cabbage Rolls

20

22

24

HEALTHY HABITS FOR FALL

PICTURE-PERFECT PET

CAMPAIGN HELPS FILL DREAMS

Coming up in November and December, we’re proud to welcome our fourth annual Help Fill a Dream promotion.

Once again, we’ll be selling Island-grown Christmas trees, along with paper shirts at the tills, Dream bouquets and Dream cupcakes, with the net proceeds going directly to the foundation’s invaluable support of Island children experiencing a life-threatening illness.

So to our friends, families, suppliers, shoppers and team members, thank you for all you have allowed us to do both in our stores and in our communities.

Some of you have been with us since the very beginning, and without you the past 30 years – and the next 30 – wouldn’t be possible.

Editor Jennifer Blyth

jblyth@telus.net

Group Publisher

Sales

Patty Doering pdoering@vicnews.com Design

Penny Sakamoto Lily Chan psakamoto@blackpress.ca

Circulation Director

Director, Sales and Advertising

Oliver Sommer osommer@blackpress.ca

Bruce Hogarth

www.blackpress.ca

818 Broughton Street, Victoria, BC V8W 1E4 Phone 250-381-3484 Fax 250-386-2624

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.

Friends&Family » FALL 2014 | countrygrocer.com » 3

Tyler, from Bowen Road, Nanaimo

Brian, Greg and Andre, in Royal Oak

Lou and Barb, in Esquimalt

30 Years & Growing Country Grocer celebrates three decades of family, friends and Islandgrown success.

BY JENNIFER BLYTH

H

ow do you measure success?

The physical growth of your business? The number of people you employ or serve? Your ability to support your community?

By all accounts, Country Grocer’s first 30 years have been nothing short of remarkable, and we invite you not only to celebrate, but to help us continue to grow and thrive for the next 30 years.

From humble beginnings in Nanaimo and Victoria, this truly local, family business has grown to seven stores and hundreds of employees living and working in communities

from Nanaimo south through the Cowichan Valley, Victoria and Salt Spring.

Country Grocer’s roots reach back to 1984, when Wally Large and Henry Zwynenburg founded Nanaimo’s Food Country. Two years later, in the Victoria-area community of Esquimalt, Peter Cavin and Mark Wilson, with spouses (and sisters) Kelly Wilson and Laura Cavin, brother-inlaw Brett Large and sister-in-law Jody Large, re-branded a pre-existing Safeway store as Esquimalt Plaza Foods.

The Royal Oak store – then with just a concrete floor and basic warehouse racking – opened the following year.

Family members work in virtually

all facets of Country Grocer, with the second-generation now bringing their ideas and enthusiasm to the company and communities in which they grew up.

While expanding Country Grocer’s reach into Island communities has been an amazing highlight from the past 30 years – not to mention renovating and upgrading existing stores to better serve customers and team members – so too has been the 1997 creation of the wholesale Island Independent Buying Group in Chemainus, giving the company greater buying power and providing customers more competitive pricing.

But Country Grocer’s growth has

This year in history 1984 Wally Large and Henry Zwynenburg open Food Country in Nanaimo.

Brian Mulroney is elected as the 18th prime minister as head of the Progressive Conservative Party.

1985 The Ganges Village Market opens on Salt Spring Island The wreck of RMS Titanic is discovered off the coast of Newfoundland.

1999

1987

1986 Jo-Anne and Pete Pimlott open Village Market in Lake Cowichan; Peter Cavin, with family members Brett Large and Jody Large, and Mark Wilson, open Esquimalt Plaza Foods.

Edmonton Oiler Wayne Gretzky wins the NHL’s Art Ross Trophy as leading scorer and the Hart Trophy for Most Valuable Player, but the Habs beat the Flames for the Stanley Cup.

4 » Friends&Family » FALL 2014 | countrygrocer.com

The Victoria group opens a second store in Victoria’s Royal Oak neighbourhood.

The Cobble Hill store opens under the Country Grocer banner.

Rick Hansen finishes his Man in Motion world tour and returns home to Vancouver.

Cher’s Believe ends the millennium at No. 1 on the Billboard charts.

1997 The Nanaimo and Victoria groups team together to create the Island Independent Buying Group, with its warehouse in Chemainus.

Diana, Princess of Wales, dies in a tragic car accident in Paris.

Hayley, Kaitlyn and Linda, from Chase River, Nanaimo

Strong also come from building community, both internally and externally.

“Seeing our team members flourish over the years has been so rewarding – in fact, many have started with us as students and now are married with families of their own who are now joining the team,” Peter reflects.

Relationships built with suppliers, both local and farther afield, have brought many rewards, not to mention the exciting challenges of keeping up-to-date with a fast-changing industry replete with new trends, products, merchandising and more, Mark notes.

And it’s this philosophy of building relationships – with team members, suppliers, customers and communities – that truly makes the Country Grocer story unique.

Chris, Brent, Rob and Barry, from Salt Spring

Jo-Anne and Pete, in Lake Cowichan

Help Country Grocer celebrate with a selfie!

Put yourself in the picture to help Country Grocer celebrate its 30th anniversary this fall.

From Oct. 17 to Nov. 15, watch your weekly grocery flyer in your Black Press Community Newspaper, in-store and on the Country Grocer website for that week’s featured products, then snap a pic of you and the product, showing you are in a Country Grocer store. Ideas include taking the picture by an in-store logo or maybe with a team member.

With photo in hand, simply upload the digital image to the Black Press contest site directly from your smart phone. See back page for details.

One picture will be drawn randomly each week during the four-week contest, with the winner receiving a prize pack from Country Grocer.

Continued on next page

2000

2001

2009

The Royal Oak store relocates to a bigger, brand new space to fully serve their customers.

The Island Independent Buying Group expands its Chemainus warehouse to 45,000 square feet.

The company and community celebrate the grand re-opening of renovated Country Grocer stores in Esquimalt and Salt Spring, offering shoppers a fresh, modern look and feel.

Y2K fails to wreak muchanticipated havoc on the world’s computer and electrical systems.

The world reels in the aftermath of the Sept. 11 terrorist attacks in the United States.

2005 A brand new Village Market opens its doors in Lake Cowichan.

Victoria-raised basketball star Steve Nash is named the NBA’s MVP.

2008 Stores join together under the Country Grocer banner; Country Grocer Chase River in South Nanaimo opens the doors to a new 46,000-square-foot home.

CBC loses the rights to Canada’s “second national anthem,” the beloved Hockey Night in Canada theme song, to rival network CTV.

Michael Bublé’s album Crazy Love finishes No. 1 in Canada, likely helped in large part with the hugely popular single “Haven’t Met You Yet”.

2012 A brand new Nanaimo Country Grocer opens at Dufferin Crescent.

The Toronto Argonauts win the 100th Grey Cup against Calgary Stampeders 35-22

countrygrocer.com » 5

30 Years Continued from previous page “When we talk about supporting our communities, about being Islanders, it’s a message we stand behind,” Peter says.

“The feeling and culture of family permeates the stores – you see it in how our team members know their customers, and how they go out of their way to help in their communities. That translates to how customers feel shopping in our stores, and the relationships we enjoy with our suppliers.

“We think it’s pretty special that all family members live here on the Island, and that’s been a big part of our support of more than 30 Island-based farmers, growers, producers and suppliers.”

That doesn’t mean the Country Grocer team is content to rely on the past is it looks toward the future.

“We look at every aspect of our business and are always striving to get better at what we do; we are fortunate to have a great environment to work, shop and live in, and will continue to focus on improving.”

What can we expect from Country Grocer in the years to come?

Maurice and Trevor, in Cobble Hill “The challenges in the grocery business will come from consolidation of other grocers and increasing variety of retailers selling food.

However, we will continue to do what we do best and support our local producers along the way,” Mark says.

The founding generation of Country Grocer family is excited about the possibilities to come.

“We have a strong group of the next

generation working in and learning the business. Over the coming years they will become the driving force of the business and lead Country Grocer into the future,” Wally says.

“We feel very fortunate to be able to raise our families and have our businesses here on both Vancouver Island and Salt Spring Island, and we appreciate that so many Islanders choose to shop with us.”

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Tim Horton’s

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Wake up to your morning Timmy’s without leaving the house! Your Country Grocer store has welcomed Tim Horton’s to the coffee shelves, available in fine and regular grind.

The perfect accompaniment to your favourite cheese, visit the deli department to choose from several varieties of the delectable Olli salami, crafted from 160-year-old Italian recipes, with names that sound as good as they taste: Calabrese, Toscano, Norcino and Molisana.

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Rumble

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www.creekmorescoffee.com Friends&Family » FALL 2014 | countrygrocer.com » 9

Say Cheese!

Photos courtesy Little Qualicum Cheeseworks

Island cheesemakers are crafting a recipe for success

BY JENNIFER BLYTH

T

ravelling through the rolling countryside of the Cowichan Valley and up through the mountain-backdropped farmlands of Oceanside and the Comox Valley, dairy farms are a fairly common site.

Not all the milk from those Each day, Little Qualicum dairy cows is destined for Cheeseworks turns a your morning whopping 1,600 litres of coffee or cereal milk into its delicious bowl, however. cheeses!

In fact, Vancouver Island is developing quite the reputation for its cheeses, courtesy of companies like Courtenay’s award-winning Natural Pastures and Parksville’s Little Qualicum Cheeseworks. Over on the Gulf Islands, Salt Spring Island Cheese Company produces a delicious array of goat cheeses.

Did you know?

10 » Friends&Family » FALL 2014 | countrygrocer.com

Little Qualicum Cheeseworks produces 14 different varieties of artisan cheese, with most available year-round, says marketing manager Adrienne Thomson.

Others, such as the garlic scape feta and chocolate fromage frais are available seasonally at the farm store or local farmer’s markets and Christmas craft fairs.

“That’s a great place to talk to people and see what they are looking for in their food products,” she says.

Little Qualicum boasts 10 to 15 employees working at the dairy farm, producing cheese from their own cows.

In fact, as an open farm, visitors are welcome to come visit to see the cows and watch the cheese-making process. “It’s really fun to watch people get really excited about watching us make the cheese,” Thomson says.

During a time when many businesses struggled, these local companies seemed to have struck upon a recipe for success.

Selling primarily on the Island and Lower Mainland, with some sales in the Okanagan, “we’ve grown every year and hopefully

Dirk Heydemann photos/Heydemann Art of Photography

Natural Pastures’ Darrell Archer is crafting cheeses from cow’s milk and water buffalo milk. haven’t reached our peak yet. It’s been very good,” Thomson says.

“I think people are becoming The local nature of the more and more aware of where business resonates with many people. their food comes from.”

“I think people are becoming more and more aware – Adrienne Thomson, of where their food comes Little Qualicum Cheeseworks from,”Thomson says, noting they are the only SPCA-certified dairy farm in BC. They also recently achieved salmon-safe certification, recognizing the farm’s emphasis on preventing impact on local fish habitat. “We’re in tune with what people want.”

The pure quality of the Island cheeses also makes a difference for people, suggests Doug Smith, operations manager at Natural Pastures, which started production on its first cow’s milk cheeses in 2001, before adding water buffalo cheeses in 2007.

From the two very different milks come different cheeses, Smith explains. The buffalo milk is very rich with a higher fat protein, creating a different taste and texture, perfect for products like the mozzarella du buffalo, a fresh mozzarella, and a buffalo brie, available at the Natural Pastures’ production facility in Courtenay.

“It’s a challenging milk to work with but the brie is turning out really, really well.

We’re very happy with it,” Smith says.

Moving forward, Natural Pastures would like to add harder buffalo cheeses to add to its current selection of nearly 20 cheeses.

“We’re slowly growing,” Smith says of Natural Pastures, encouraging visitors to stop by the McPhee Avenue shop.

In addition to cheeses for purchase, including some varieties made in smaller batches, so not available elsewhere, customers can sample a variety of cheeses to discover a new favourite. “I think the majority of our cheese is still sold on Vancouver Island and the Lower Mainland, but we have been selling into the Ontario market for

Looking for something special for your fall family gathering or holiday party?

You won’t go wrong with cheese. Just add a selection crackers, savoury salami or crisp grapes and you have an easy, elegant hors d’oeuvres.

Need a few new ideas? Check out these delicious cheeses from the Island’s Natural Pastures and Little Qualicum Cheeseworks.

Natural Pastures’ Comox Brie & Camembert are wonderfully creamy soft cheeses, while the Amsterdammer is favourite for its creamy, buttery aroma and mellow infusion of field herbs. Discover something different in the Verdelait, a unique, award-winning blend of cheddar, Dutch gouda and Swiss raclette.

In 2008, Courtenay’s Check your Country Natural Pastures took Grocer deli case for Cracked Pepper and home a gold medal Garlic Chive varieties.

From Little Qualicum, at the World Cheese their best-selling Island Championships for its Brie is a natural for any Comox Brie get-togther, with its creamy texture, velvet white rind, with mushroomy overtones – perfect with something slightly sweet.

Even better, the little wooden board, rescued from the burn pile of a local guitar manufacturer, can live again as a coaster!

Kick up the local theme with Rathtrevor, inspired

by Swiss Gruyere and named after Parksville’s beautiful beach and park. “It’s careful ripening process and long aging make for a fine table cheese that pairs well with fruits, nuts, and a good wine.”

Shopping at Country Grocer’s Salt Spring store? Be sure to pick up the locally crafted goat cheeses from Salt Spring Island Cheese Company.

Did you know?

Continued on next page

Friends&Family » FALL 2014 | countrygrocer.com » 11

Island support has helped Little Qualicum Cheeseworks continue to grow

Cheese

Continued from previous page a few years and a little in the Prairies.”

While Ontario and Quebec have had a long cheese-making history, people recognize the unique qualities of the Island cheeses, suggests Smith, who grew up on a dairy farm. “I think a lot of it has to do with the flavour and it is the (result) of the terroir, if you want to use a wine term,” he says, noting that factors such as different feeds and climates play a role in the milk’s flavour.

Recognition by locals of products from and in many cases, for, the Island goes a long way toward finding a receptive market. “I think people recognize us for being a very visible local business and it’s something people think of as being very special for here, so they’ve been very good,” Smith says.

At the same time, support from area retailers like Country Grocer also goes a long way to providing a regular customer base. “I think it’s really important. We need to have retailers like Country Grocer that carry our cheeses and support us because we’re not going to do it selling it only out of out little store,” Smith says.

Thomson agrees.

“It’s definitely beneficial to have companies interested in our products and listening to the customers when they ask them to bring it in,” she says.

“There’s always challenges to any business, but we’ve got great support and we have a great team of people. We love what we do, we love our customers and we love that we have a place where people make choices for their cheese locally.”

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MADE IN CANADA Friends&Family » FALL 2014 | countrygrocer.com » 13

Gregg Eligh photos

RECIPES from Chef Michael

Thai Curry Squash Roast

Grilled Pear with Lemon Honey Ricotta

Molasses Spiced Beef Cabbage Rolls

Servings: 4 Preparation Time: 30 minutes Cooking Time: 30 minutes

Servings: 8 Preparation Time: 20 minutes Cooking Time: 10 minutes

Servings: 3 to 4 Preparation Time: 20 minutes Cooking Time: 10 minutes

This is dinner done with ease. Everything is cooked together in the same dish in the oven and the end result is a very tasty and flavourful, veggie-loaded meal. The simple curry sauce adds a nice flavour and the minimal clean-up after preparation will leave you with time to relax.

This is one of the easier desserts you are going to make, but as you see from the photo, it presents very nicely. Lemon and honey flavour the light and fluffy ricotta perfectly which acts as a nice bed for the grilled pear.

Clean and healthy, this simple dinner/lunch idea is so refreshing and very tasty. We use the cabbage leaves as a taco of sorts with its lovely crunch and the pickled onions add a refreshing zing, making this is one of my favourite simple dishes.

Ingredients:

Ingredients:

2

½ ¼ cup

Ingredients: 1

medium butternut squash, peeled and sliced to half-inch thickness 1 sweet onion, peeled and sliced thick 1 red pepper, sliced 2 Tbsp ginger, sliced very thin 4 boneless chicken breasts 1 cup regular (not light) coconut milk, stirred 2 Tbsp Thai Kitchens Red Curry paste ½ tsp sea salt 1 tsp ground coriander ½ cup

chopped fresh cilantro or basil (optional)

Method: 1. Place the squash, onion, peppers, ginger and chicken breast in a large mixing bowl.

2. Warm the coconut milk and curry paste in a small pot and whisk to incorporate.

3. Pour the mixed sauce into the mixing bowl with the veggies and chicken, add the salt and coriander seed and toss well to combine.

4. Place everything into a large casserole dish with the chicken on top. I used a 9” X 13” dish and it worked well.

5. Roast in a preheated 350° F oven until the chicken is cooked through.

6. Serve and garnish with chopped cilantro or basil if desired.

Variations: Add 2 tablespoons of honey for a nice balanced sweetness.

Bartlett pears (quartered and core removed) 2 Tbsp butter 2 Tbsp honey ½ tsp cinnamon 1 tub ricotta cheese 2 Tbsp honey Zest of 1 lemon 2 tsp lemon juice Method: 1. Preheat your barbecue on high heat.

2. Melt the butter and honey in a small pot. Add the cinnamon and stir well.

3. Remove the pot from the heat. Add the pears and toss to coat.

4. Grill the pears on the barbecue until they are caramelized nicely and soft.

5. Meanwhile, combine the ricotta, honey, lemon zest and juice in a mixing bowl. Stir very well to ensure the honey is incorporated.

6. Now you’re ready to plate up. Start by gently warming the honey and butter if necessary.

7. Place a spoonful into the centre of a plate and spread it out until it’s big enough to surround a portion of the ricotta.

8. Add a portion of the ricotta and then place a grilled pear on top.

9. Garnish with a touch of extra lemon zest if desired, then serve this wonderful dessert and make mouths happy.

Variations: Add 1 tablespoon of very thinly sliced basil for a beautiful colour contrast and nice subtle flavour.

red onion (very thinly sliced) apple cider vinegar

2 Tbsp ½ 1 Tbsp 450g

coconut oil onion (diced) ginger (minced) Island Pastures ground beef or bison (approx.)

2 Tbsp organic molasses 2 Tbsp tomato paste 2 tsp ground cumin ½ tsp sea salt ¼ cup water 12 peeled cabbage leaves Tomato (optional) Method: 1. Start by combining the onion and vinegar in a small bowl and set aside. Hint – a mandolin is a great tool to get a consistent, thin slice.

2. Now, preheat a large fry pan on medium heat.

Add the oil and then the onion. Sauté, stirring occasionally until the onions are lightly browned.

3. Add the ginger and sauté for one minute longer.

4. Now you can add the beef and sauté until it is lightly browned.

5. Add the molasses, tomato paste, cumin and salt and cook until the beef is cooked through, stirring occasionally.

6. Add the water if necessary to achieve a saucier consistency.

7. Now you can assemble. Using the whole green cabbage leaves like a tortilla, fill the leaves with some of the beef, fresh tomato and the pickled onion and enjoy this fresh creation.

Variations:

Find more recipes from Chef Michael at countrygrocer.com 14 » Friends&Family » FALL 2014 | countrygrocer.com

Other taco-friendly ingredients are great here too: sour cream, avocado, salsa, shredded cheese. Do it!

CHEF MICHAEL WILLIAMS

Fill your freezer this fall and be ready for busy days to come

W

ith fall comes change…not only are the days getting shorter and the weather cooling off, but lives start shifting back into old routines. Vacations have been taken, beach days become less common and for most of us, it’s back to the grind.

With the kids back in school, we’re likely spending more time in the kitchen making nourishing food (hopefully), preparing lunches and snacks to be packed away, and hopefully cooking up a storm, stocking our freezer with the abundance of fresh, local produce we have available here on the Island.

Now is the time to make some doubleand triple-batch recipes, taking advantage of

I’m so happy I decided to make Shannon Oaks my home. Everyone here has become family.

Mediterranean Fish Stew

inexpensive, fresh and local products filling your Country Grocer produce department.

Tomatoes, onions, carrots, parsnips, beets, Brussels sprouts, cauliflower, broccoli, cabbage, chard, kale, winter squash and so much more can be found for great prices and are grown close to home at this time of year.

If you like these veggies, then I recommend building a good base to live off of for the coming months.

It helps to remember that you do not need to fill the freezer all in one day...That may be overwhelming unless you are an experienced chef.

I recommend a graduated approach instead. Each time you cook a soup, stew, casserole or other freezer-friendly dish, make a large batch...enough for dinner tonight (perhaps tomorrow as well) and then several meal-sized portions for the freezer.

If you do this each time you cook, you’re maximizing your efficiency. The additional effort required to double or triple a recipe is normally minimal and it eliminates the need to cook dinner one busy night in the near future.

So what dishes work best for this technique? Soups are a no-brainer. Create your own tasty soups or use Gregg Eligh photo

my recipes right from countrygrocer.com Red Curry Coconut Soup with Rice, Mediterranean Fish Stew, Smoked Cheddar and Broccoli Soup, Black Bean and Potato Soup and Indian Black Bean Chili are a small selection of some delicious soups and stews that freeze well. Many of these recipes can be adapted to include whatever produce is available.

Some other lovely meals you can pull from the freezer are casseroles...simple meals that are cooked in a large frying pan or pot on the stove-top or baked in a casserole dish in the oven.

The slow cooker is another option for making casseroles. I love cooking these one-pot meals because like soups and stews, the clean-up is easy and the finished product travels so nicely.

Some great casserole recipes I have created over the years include Sweet and Spicy Ground, Bean and Wild Rice Bake, Spicy Peanut Casserole, Spicy Mocha Braised Short-rib Pasta, Barley and Mushroom Risotto and Baked Macaroni and Smokies.

Find all of these wholesome meals on the recipe page of countrygrocer.com Vegetables like cauliflower, carrots, parsnips, cabbage, beets, kale and chard can be added to most of the soups, stews and casseroles mentioned in this article.

So load up on your favourite late summer/ early fall bounty and make life a little easier on those nights when you need the help!

Happy healthy cooking!

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Friends&Family » FALL 2014 | countrygrocer.com » 15

Happy

Halloween!

Ghoulies and ghosties and all manner of beasties will be haunting the Island’s communities and cornfields this October. What’s coming up?

Here’s a sampling of what’s going on in your community.

Nanaimo Cowichan Valley Enjoy Ghostly Walks as part of the Ghosts of Victoria Festival.

Find plenty of pumpkin fun this October.

Get warmed up for the big night with the Downtown Halloween Howl, Oct. 25 at Diana Krall Plaza in downtown Nanaimo.

The fun includes a Halloween Pet Parade, paw reading, Mystic Faire and Halloween Celebration. The plaza will buzz with activity while costumed critters of the human variety prepare for trick or treating at the downtown businesses from noon to 2 p.m. Zombie fan?

Go online to learn the moves, craft your deadliest costume, then groove to Michael Jackson’s iconic “Thriller” in the Plaza. (See www.dnbia.ca) On Oct. 29, Nanaimo Parks & Recreation invites parents and kids age six and older to venture out on a Scary Halloween Family Hike. “Join us for a scary family hike through the woods with your flashlight or head lamp.

Who knows what might be lurking in the dark?” organizers ask. The fun runs from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. and treats will be provided.

Families are warned activities might frighten young children, and please, no dogs. Register online at IReg.nanaimo.ca ($20 for a family of four or $10 for two.)

Also from Nanaimo Recreation is Halloween Howl-Fall Fun, Oct. 31 from 7 to 9:30 p.m. at the Nanaimo Aquatic Centre, while the older set can rock on with the Halloween Teen Dance Oct. 31 from 7 to 11 p.m. at Beban Social Centre. Tickets are $12.

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A Cowichan Valley Halloween has to include a visit to the BC Forest Discovery Centre and the Halloween Train! Ride the Green Hornet through ghostly scenes and past scary Halloween characters at the museum. Children will enjoy trick-or-treating and Halloween crafts, then venturing through haunted houses. Costumed spooks will mingle with visitors, appearing in the most unexpected places! The Green Hornet leaves the station every 30 minutes from 4 to 9 p.m. Oct. 24 to 30. The event is included in your BC Forest Discovery Centre membership; for non-members, admission is $12 adults, $10 seniors/ youth (age 65+ or 13 to 18), $8 children (age three to 12) and free for children age two and younger. Please, no pets for this event.

Pre-teens get into the spirit of the season at the Island Savings Sports Centre with a Halloween Dance for ages 10 to 13, Oct. 24 from 7 to 10 p.m. Bring your friends and dance the night away to tunes from local DJs. Admission is $8 per person, including a beverage and bag of chips, plus the chance to win prizes. Concession is available, and don’t forget your costume!

Saturday, Oct. 25 welcomes the familyfriendly Halloween Harvest Howl. Hosted by the Shawnigan Lake Community Association, everyone is welcome from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.

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16 » Friends&Family » FALL 2014 | countrygrocer.com

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Community Centre for entertainment by Shelley Smilie, costumes, prizes, food and treat bags for the little ones. Admission is free.

Cobble Hill Country Grocer and Valley View Plaza host a spectacular bonfire at dusk Oct. 31, with hot dogs by donation, while the Youbou Hall welcomes everyone for a ghoulish good time with the annual Haunted House Oct. 31. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. with costume judging at 7 p.m.

Oct. 31 also brings a Halloween Skate at the Kerry Park Arena. Don your favourite Halloween costume and join on-ice leaders for a variety of fun and games, treats and spooky music, from 7 to 8:15 p.m. Everyone is welcome. Regular admission rates apply.

Salt Spring

Head to ArtSpring Oct. 31 for a 2 p.m. Salt Spring Concert Band Halloween Concert and the music of Halloween.

Later in the evening, Halloween Fireworks will illuminate Ganges Harbour. Beginning at 7:30 p.m., the evening’s festivities are sponsored by Salt Spring Fire Rescue.

Greater Victoria

The Capital Region is known as one of the most haunted cities in British Columbia, mak-

ing it the perfect host for the annual Ghosts of Victoria Festival, running through late-October. Highlights include Horse-drawn Ghost Tours from Victoria Carriage Tours, Discover the Past’s Ghostly Walks, Ghost Bus-Tours and more. For a full line-up of festival activities, visit www.discoverthepast.com or check in with www.tourismvictoria.com In Saanich, Halloween fans of all ages enjoy the fun at Galey Farm in the Blenkinsop Valley. The all-ages Pumpkinfest runs from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Oct. 11, 12, 18, 19, 25 and 26, while for spookier adventures, the Festival of Fear is an annual highlight, running nightly Oct. 16 to 31 from 6 to 10 p.m.

On the Saanich Peninsula, Heritage Acres presents an Enchanted Halloween, Oct. 17 to 19 and 24 to 26, with a variety of activities “bringing back the best of Halloween.” See shas.ca for more details.

In Esquimalt, families will enjoy a Pumpkin Swim, from 1 to 3 p.m. Oct. 26, but the big fun comes Oct. 31, when the community gathers beside Country Grocer’s Esquimalt Plaza Shopping Centre at the Archie Browning Sports Centre. From 6 to 9 p.m., enjoy a free Lions Halloween Bonfire, with a hot dog, hot chocolate, costume parade and prizes from local merchants.

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Friends&Family » FALL 2014 | countrygrocer.com » 17

PROFILE

HR takes on a family focus at Country Grocer’s Nanaimo stores

JENNIFER BLYTH

Jennifer Blyth photo

H

aving happy staff – team members who feel valued, challenged and respected, working in an environment they believe in – doesn’t happen by accident.

A corporate mindset identifying those goals comes first, but to ensure they’re supported in the day-to-day work environment? That often falls to the Human Resources department.

In Country Grocer’s Nanaimo stores, that means Janice Anderson in Chase River and Karen Maestrello at Bowen Road.

Janice, Chase River Human Resources Manager, returned to the company six years ago, after first working with predecessor Food Country upon its opening 30 years ago.

The vast and varied human resources department has been a great fit. “I like working with people, and I like to help,” she says.

Today Janice looks after payroll for both Nanaimo stores and Human Resources for Chase River. Karen Maestello joined the Bowen Road Country Grocer two years ago.

With a bit of a unique role in the store – Karen is the only Bowen Road team member who doesn’t work on the grocery floor – she’s the go-to person for questions from team members.

“Everyone calls me the mom of the store; if they ever have a concern, they come to me,” says Karen, mom to four kids from 15 to 23 years old. With husband Stefano and their busy family, Karen enjoys a variety of local sports and outdoor activities when not at the store.

While Karen and Janice’s jobs are very different, and different again from their counterparts on the South Island, both women share a passion for supporting their team members.

Mentoring staff has become a large part of their work, especially in a company that enjoys a longevity of among team members, who enjoy the opportunity to expand their horizons and tackle career challenges. “Many people start at an entry-level position and work their way up. In turn, it helps with the other employees because they’re the ones doing the training,” Karen says.

Then there’s working with benefits, retire-

Janice Anderson and Karen Maestrello manage Human Resources and community support initiatives in Country Grocer’s two Nanaimo stores. ment programs and other elements of a varied work day. Community events also comprise a large part of the job in Nanaimo. Serving north Nanaimo, Karen and her Bowen Road team are actively involved with the Nanaimo Clippers, for example, in addition to her area’s community groups.

In south Nanaimo, Janice does a lot of work with local schools and community groups, who count on the community-minded company to support fundraising activities and other initiatives.

With stores so involved with the local community, events and organizations, “a big part of our job is communicating with each other,” says Janice, who with husband Jack has raised three sons and now enjoys time spent with their two grandsons, with another grand-baby on the way.

Family figures prominently throughout mid-Island Country Grocer stores. “Family is a huge part of our store here,” with a large number of family members of various con-

18 » Friends&Family » FALL 2014 | countrygrocer.com

figurations among the staff, whether siblings, mothers and daughters, cousins and more. “It works,” Janice says.

Karen agrees, noting that staff are often encouraging other family members to join the team, “I think it says a lot for what we’re doing here.”

Team members are also encouraged to bring forth ideas to make the company better, for the team and their customers. Recognizing that Chase River’s proximity to downtown Nanaimo brings a number of tourists during the summer season, one employee suggested giving each visitor a Country Grocer shopping bag. It’s a small gesture that has met with a great response, Janice says.

As a company owned and operated by the original family members – often seen in the store and the local community – with the next generation adding their ideas and expertise, “locally owned is huge,” she says. “It’s a big thing to our staff and our customers to see them in the store.”

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Staying healthy in the ‘hectic season’

W

ith back to school, back to work, back to sports and the innumerable other activities that keep us busy come fall, it’s no wonder that hectic pace can have us feeling frazzled. Keep it up too long and we soon feel run down, our bodies all the more receptive to the germs that flourish this time of year.

So, in addition to building time into your busy schedule to relax and rejuvenate, time to eat properly, exercise and get enough rest, how else can you support a healthy immune system?

Supplements to Consider Adding to Your Grocery Cart

From last-minute lunches to dinner on the run, it’s not always possible to get all the recommended vitamins and minerals from food alone. A few supplements that might be worth examining include:

Superfoods

Nutrient-rich foods like kale, blueberries, chia and flax grab “superfood status” headlines for their ability to deliver a wide variety of vitamins, minerals, antioxidants and other properties our bodies need, but they’re not the whole story.

“While there are many super, good-foryou foods available, a couple that you will find outside of the produce section are spirulina and chlorella,” says Country Grocer’s South Island nutritionist Erin Bosdet.

A great source of iron and other minerals and a good source of protein, spirulina is high in chlorophyll, which offers many health benefits.

While not quite as rich in nutrients as spirulina, chlorella is a better detoxifier, especially of heavy metals and chemicals, Erin says. “Many people don’t necessarily enjoy the taste of spirulina or chlorella, but if you add them to a smoothie that includes pineapple and ginger, you might just find yourself in favour of this nutritious addition.”

Multivitamins

Vitamins and minerals are nutrients that the body needs to repair and to grow, Erin explains. “Eating a variety of healthy, whole foods can certainly help us to maintain the levels that our bodies require (however) eating on the run, eating processed foods and high stress levels can deplete our bodies of the micronutrients it requires. Multivitamins can offer micronutrients needed to maintain a healthy lifestyle when our diets fall short.

These include the B Vitamins, Vitamins C and E, and minerals, as well as micronutrients such as the important trace minerals.”

Probiotics

We’ve seen a lot in local magazines and TV ads about probiotics, but what exactly are they and why are they good for us? “Probiotics are live, good bacteria that assist with maintaining a healthy gut,” Erin explains. “A healthy gastrointestinal tract is important not only for our digestive system, but also for our general health.”

20 » Friends&Family » FALL 2014 | countrygrocer.com

Part of a healthy immune system and helpful for maintaining a healthy mood, probiotics are found in supplement form and in fermented foods as well as in some fortified foods. However, many different strains are available, so a little research will help you determine the combination that’s right for you.

Vitamin D

Vitamin D is a fat-soluble vitamin with many important functions, especially its role in the absorption of calcium and phosphorous. “Attaining the right amount of vitamin D is important for healthy development of bones and teeth,” Erin says. “Research has shown that vitamin D deficiency is now linked to a number of diseases. We are not able to get enough vitamin D from sunshine year-round so finding a good quality vitamin D to supplement can be a healthy choice.”

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Omega-3 and omega-6 essential fatty acids (EFAs) can be found in a variety of foods and also in edible oils, Erin explains. The body cannot produce EFAs so they must be consumed from the foods you eat. “Cold water fish, walnuts, chia seeds and flax oil are good sources of Omega-3 fatty acids. Sunflower and safflower oil are good sources of omega-6. The right ratio of these oils would be a great addition to your diet as the EFAs may help support heart health, healthy metabolism and research indicates that omega-3 may reduce inflammation,” Erin says.

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For help determining what foods and supplements can help you maintain your optimal health this fall and winter, drop in to see Erin Bosdet in the Cobble Hill, Esquimalt or Royal Oak Country Grocer stores. In Nanaimo, visit Ahrina Kay Nielsen, manager of the nutrition department at the Bowen Road store. * This information is not intended to diagnose, treat, cure or prevent any disease.

As with all supplements, it is important to consider where the product comes from and what the ingredients are. Please consult a healthcare professional for personalized care prior to starting any new supplement plan.

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Friends&Family » FALL 2014 | countrygrocer.com » 21

Dog-friendly hikes for your four-legged friend accessed via Empress Avenue, off Shawnigan Lake / Cobble Hill Rd. See www.cvrd.bc.ca/index. aspx?NID=119 for more details.

With the changing leaves and mild temperatures, fall is a beautiful time to get outside on Vancouver Island. To be able to share it with your four-legged “best friend”? Even better!

For those looking for somewhere new to explore, here’s a few of our favourite dog-friendly trails in our Country Grocer communities.

Cowichan Valley Trail

The Cowichan Valley Trail offers a beautiful hike along retired railroad tracks, with many historic spots to explore along the way, including the historic Kinsol Trestle, reportedly the tallest wooden railway trestle in Canada. Find information on the trail and trestle, plus current maps, at www.cvrd.bc.ca/index. aspx?NID=121

Thetis Lake Regional Park: Established as Canada’s first nature sanctuary in 1958, this 833-hectare park near Victoria boasts many trails winding around the large lake and through the West Coast forest.

Find ample paid parking near the main lake area. For more info visit www.crd.bc.ca/parksrecreation-culture/parks-trails/ find-park-trail/thetis-lake

Avenue and Matheson Avenue.

For details, see www.esquimalt. ca/parksRecreation/parks/parkDescriptions.aspx

Questions? See www.crd.bc.ca/ parks-recreation-culture/parkstrails/find-park-trail/elk-beaverlake

Highrock Park:

Elk/Beaver Lake:

Cobble Hill Mountain Regional Recreational Area:

For a more challenging walk, check out Highrock Park, in the Victoria-area community of Esquimalt. The highest point in the municipality at 71 meters, the aptly named Highrock offers expansive views of the region and different foot paths entering the park from Esquimalt Road, Rockheights

Jennifer Blyth photo

For a longer, more leisurely walk or jog, Elk/Beaver Lake is ideal.

Located near Victoria’s Royal Oak neighbourhood, the largely flat and accessible, 10-kilometre trail around both lakes is the perfect place for a walk or jog with your active furry friend. Parking is available at both Beaver and Elk lakes.

PART OF THE FAMILY “Montana is a 21-month-old lovable bundle of energy, motivated by water (the swimming kind) and food,” says Anne Shaffner.

While she spends most of her time in Victoria, Montana is particularly fond of the Cowichan River, and spent many hours a day in the water this past summer. In fact, “while we tubed the river, she would swim from Little Beach all the way down to the end of Hudgrove Road – a good five kilometres!”

SHOW US YOUR PET

Share a photo and a few words about what makes your pet special by emailing Friends & Family editor Jennifer Blyth at jblyth@telus.net

22 » Friends&Family » FALL 2014 | countrygrocer.com

This wonderful, 450-ha recreation area is a popular hiking destination rewarded by an amazing view at the peak.

Trails comprise both old logging roads and newly created trails,

Cable Bay Dog Off-Leash Area

Get out and about with your canine companion in the south end of Nanaimo at Cable Bay. Nearly two kilometres of forested trail leads to a rocky beach where seals, sea lions, eagles and other animals can be spotted. The trail is uneven and with some steep, rocky areas is perfect for pooches, but will be difficult for those with mobility challenges. See www.nanaimo.ca/assets/Departments/Parks~Rec~Culture/Parks/ cablebaydogpark.pdf details.

Time for a CatNap Dropping by either of the Nanaimo Country Grocer stores? Local felines would appreciate your support!

Look for the in-store donation box for CatNap, a non-profit cat rescue group that welcomes donations of dry cat food, canned cat food, kitty litter and cat toys and treats.

Need more info? Visit www.catnapsociety.com

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Friends&Family » FALL 2014 | countrygrocer.com » 23

COMMUNITY

Winter Campaign Helps Fill Dreams

G

iven the opportunity to help a child with a lifethreatening condition, Country Grocer shoppers and team members have shown they’re not only ready, but willing!

And with the arrival of the annual Christmas campaign, there’s a chance to do it all again.

Each year Country Grocer stores support the Island-based Help Fill a Dream Foundation through the sale of $2 paper shirts at the till, Island-grown Christmas trees and special holiday bouquets. During this year’s campaign, Nov. 16 to Dec. 13, shoppers can also tuck into Dream Cupcakes, knowing they’re supporting Island families.

“Help Fill a Dream quite simply would not exist without the generosity of our individual donors and corporate partners,” says Executive Director Craig Smith. “With demand for our programming increasing year to year, it’s a constant struggle to make all the requests for Dreams that we receive a reality. Last year we supported a record number of 90 children on Vancouver Island and the Gulf Islands.”

The organization’s partnership with Country Grocer allows everyone to become a Dream Maker.

“Each year we look forward to our annual Christmas campaign with our friends at Country Grocer. Both the employees and customers are very enthusiastic about the campaign,” Smith says.

“I think it’s so rewarding for both a business and its customers to

Photos courtesy Help Fill A Dream Foundation

Dreams are as unique as the kids who dream them: Anna, 9, with Metastatic Renal Cell Carcinoma, enjoyed a Vancouver Island Beach vacation; Gabe, 11, with Duchenne Muscular Dystrophy, dreamed of a trip to Sea World to swim with dolphins; and Kelley, 15, with Cystic Fibrosis, wanted to play hockey with his team in Sweden and Finland. see the results of their generosity and the significant impact it has on those it helps.

“This money goes to help local children immediately through our programs. Every dollar makes a difference. From special Band-Aids that make the poke of a needle a little less painful to becoming a princess in a magic kingdom, for a child facing the uncertainty of a life-threatening condition, hope and happiness help the healing process.

“Unfortunately we can’t make a child well, but we can offer families a respite from the stress and frustration they are experiencing.”

Learn more about the Help Fill A Dream Foundation at helpfilladream. com

Jennifer Blyth photo

Showing and shining to Help Fill Dreams

Country Grocer’s Motorcycle Show ‘n Shine raised $1,676.10 for Help Fill A Dream this summer.

24 » Friends&Family » FALL 2014 | countrygrocer.com

Motorcycle enthusiasts revved their engines for this summer’s Country Grocer Motorcycle Show ‘n Shine in Cobble Hill. The result? $1,676.10 raised for Vancouver Island’s Help Fill a Dream Foundation.

Country Grocer Director Peter Cavin was among those on hand to enjoy the festivities, including entertainment from the Bratz Band, yummy ribs and coleslaw by donation from Chef Michael and an exhibit by the Freakshow Choppers.

Organized by Maurice Gaudreault, Assistant Store Manager of Country Grocer Cobble Hill, and his team members, the show ‘n shine is part of Country Grocer’s year-round initiative for Help Fill a Dream, which provides hope, help and happiness for Island children with life-threatening conditions.

The foundation fulfills dreams, improves quality of life and assists families with care and financial support. Since 1986, Help Fill A Dream has fulfilled more than 2,000 Dreams.

TIDBITS Good works honoured

Country Grocer has been named a finalist for the National Philanthropy Day awards, recognizing outstanding individuals and organizations making a difference in the community.

By “changing the world with a giving heart,” the awards have named three finalists in six award categories. Country Grocer is a finalist for the Corporate Citizenship Award, presented by the University of Victoria.

“Caring, community support and involvement are basic values to Country Grocer and essential to community growth. Believing it is important to give back, this Vancouver Island and Salt Spring Island family-owned and operated grocery chain has made a significant contribution through its support and sponsorship of a wide variety of events and organizations on Vancouver Island and Salt Spring Island.”

Winners will be announced during the National Philanthropy Day celebration Nov. 18, from 4:30 to 6:30 p.m. at the Fairmont Empress Hotel. For more details see www. npdvictoria.com

Putting on a Brave face for fall

In addition to continuing as a sponsor of the Nanaimo Clippers Junior A hockey team, the community-minded Country Grocer has also joined the Saanich Braves Junior B hockey family for the 2014-15 season.

“Country Grocer has become a major sponsor for the Saanich Junior Braves – they have been fantastic in helping these young athletes work towards achieving their goals in hockey and supporting the Junior Braves organization as a whole,” says Junior Braves GM Norm Kelly.

“The Country Grocer team and the Saanich Junior Braves are going for a VIJHL championship this season! We thank Country Grocer for all their support and look forward to the 2014 -2015 season.”

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The Saanich Junior Braves welcome Country Grocer’s support as a sponsor this season.

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Visit Saanichbraves.ca for the this season’s schedule.

Men’s Health Day

The Prostate Centre welcomed hundreds of Victoria-area men to the Tillicum Centre Sept. 13 for the Country Grocer Men’s Health Day, raising awareness and potentially saving lives.

The unique event encourages men to implement positive lifestyle choices and to seek early and appropriate treatment for disease and injury through free health assessments, consultations, and educational materials.

A key component of the Country Grocer Men’s Health Day is free PSA screening for prostate cancer. The PSA is an important marker for a disease in which symptoms are not always present. According to newly released recommendations from Prostate Cancer Canada, men should get a baseline PSA test in their 40s instead of waiting until their 50s. Nationally, one in seven Canadian men will be diagnosed with the disease in his lifetime.

For more information, please visit www.

TheProstateCentre.org or call The Prostate Centre at 250-388-0214.

More than 400 men took advantage of Country Grocer Men’s Health Day to get screened for prostate cancer with a free PSA test.

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Friends&Family » FALL 2014 | countrygrocer.com » 25

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Oct. 9 to Nov. 14 – Wild Wings Festival, celebrating the return of the trumpeter swans to the Cowichan Valley.

Launch party, art exhibits, marsh tours and concerts.FMI: www. wildwingsfestival.com Oct. 18 – One World Festival, featuring a diverse range of cultural music, performances, fashion shows, craft exhibitions, kids’ activities, international cuisines, community information booths, and more, 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. in the Si’em Lelum Gym, 5574 River Rd., Duncan. FMI: www.cis-iwc.org Oct. 24 – The legendary Gordon Lightfoot performs at the Cowichan Theatre. FMI: www. cowichantheatre.ca Oct. 31 – Halloween bonfire, beginning at dusk at the Cobble Hill Country Grocer/Valley View Plaza.

Nov. 26 – Stuart McLean and the Vinyl Café Christmas Show bring the holidays to the Cowichan Theatre. FMI: www. cowichantheatre.ca

Oct. 3 to 5 – Nanaimo Home Expo, Beban Park Auditorium, www.homeshowtime.com Oct. 10, 15, 18, 25 & 26; Nov. 7, 8, 14, 16, 19, 22 & 28 – Nanaimo Clippers Junior A hockey team welcomes BCHL Junior A opponents to Frank Crane Arena, 7 p.m.

FMI: nanaimoclippers.com Oct. 15 – Toopy & Binoo Fun & Games will have families across Canada singing and dancing along to this musical extravaganza! The dynamic duo blends optimism, imagination, and spontaneity in their quest to find the best game ever! FMI: www. porttheatre.com Nov. 9 – Nanaimo Concert Band’s annual Fall Concert, Sunday 2:30 p.m. at Port Theatre FMI: 250-754-8550 Nov. 19 to 23 – Cedar Yellow Point Artisan Country Christmas Tour. FMI: www.cyartisans.com

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SALT SPRING Oct. 18 – Emergency Workshop: Helping Your Pets: Learn how to create a pet’s Grab & Go bag, what to expect from your pet in a disaster and how to keep your pet safe. FMI: www.crd.bc.ca/prepare-yourself Oct. 18 – Harvest Grape Stomp: An afternoon of live music, food, special tastings, grape-stomping competitions, and stomping good fun, 12 to 5 p.m. at Salt Spring Vineyards, 151 Lee Rd. FMI: www. saltspringvineyards.com Oct. 31 – Halloween Fireworks, 7:30 p.m. in Ganges Harbour, sponsored

by Salt Spring Fire Rescue.

Nov. 21 to 23 – Eighth annual Giant Book Sale, a fundraiser for Salt Spring Literacy, at the Salt Spring Island Farmers’ Institute, 351 Rainbow Rd. FMI: www.saltspringliteracy.org

GREATER VICTORIA Oct. 3, 8, 10, 15, 17, 22 & 29; Nov. 5, 7, 12, 14, 26 & 28 – Saanich Junior Braves hockey team welcomes Vancouver Island opponents to Pearkes Arena, 6:30 p.m. FMI: www.saanichbraves.ca Oct. 4 – 12th annual Esquimalt Children’s Story Fest, hosted by Esquimalt Parks & Rec, Kiwanis and the Greater Victoria Public Library, invites local families to celebrate the wonder of storytelling, 11 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. in the Esquimalt Town Square (behind Municipal Hall). Free.

FMI: www.esquimalt.ca Oct. 11 – Esquimalt Fire Department Open House 11 a.m. to 2 p.m. at the Public Safety Building on Park Place. Stop by for this fun, family

what’s in the

event featuring Sparky the Fire Dog, live demonstrations, bouncy castle, balloons, free hot dogs, tours…and more! FMI: Esquimalt Fire Rescue, 250-414-7126.

Oct. 25 – Victoria Nikkei Cultural Society’s 15th annual Japanese Cultural Fair at the Esquimalt Recreation Centre, featuring Japanese food, demonstrations of ikebana, tea ceremony, bonsai, shodo, and various martial arts, cultural performances, kids’ activity area and more. FMI: www.vncs.ca or facebook.com/vncs.ca Oct. 26 and Nov. 29 – Township Classics at the English Inn, a classical music house concert series at Esquimalt’s historic English Inn, 7 to 8 p.m. Last Sunday of each month through February. Seating is limited to 80 people – reserve at townshiparts@ gmail.com with the subject line townshipclassics, and indicating the number of people, and your name, address, and phone number.

Admission is by donation; proceeds support youth arts and music.

Nov. 1 – Victoria TeenFest, 11 a.m. to 5:30 p.m. at Pearkes Recreation Centre, 3100 Tillicum Rd. Teen talent contest; indoor skateboard park; teen model search; performances; interactive activities; 100+ booths to see, learn, shop and sample; special guests and much more. FMI: www. teenfest.ca

BAG What must-have items will be in your grocery bag this fall?

Warren Lucoe Parents to three busy, active kids, Country Grocer Royal Oak shoppers Warren and Belinda Lucoe appreciate the easy access their neighbourhood store provides to wholesome, local food. When it comes to shopping for his family’s favourite fall comfort food, here’s what’s sure to be in Warren’s shopping bag: 1. CG multi-grain bread

7. Potato-crusted cod

2. 2% milk

8. Marble cheddar

Nov. 11 – Remembrance Day services at the Saanich, Esquimalt and Victoria Cenotaphs.

3. Local carrots

9. BC Granny Smith apples

Nov. 22 – Island Farms Santa Light Parade, along Government Street, from Belleville to Chatham Street.

FMI: www.victoria.ca

5. Celery

11. Deli sausage rolls

6. Head lettuce

12. Vanilla yogurt

4. Vancouver Island nugget potatoes

10. Mini-Wheats

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‘Jack-of-all-trades’ shines in Lake Cowichan

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For outdoor enthusiast Kathy Biro, the community of Lake Cowichan provides the perfect jumping off point for her hiking, biking and paddling adventures.

Attracted to the community for its housing opportunities, “we got here and we realized how beautiful it is,” says Kathy, who joined the Country Grocer family 3 1/2 years ago. To also be able to find a career she loves with the community’s Country Grocer store has made her move from Edmonton even better.

While Kathy hadn’t worked in the grocery field before, she enjoys the diversity of the work. “I enjoy people and talking to people so as a cashier you meet someone new every two minutes,” she says with a smile.

Her aptitude and willingness to learn has opened up additional opName: Kathy Biro portunities, working in departments Store: Lake Cowichan throughout the store; she’s now Position: Shift Supervisor Years with Country Grocer: 3.5 shift supervisor and also spends time in the cash office, taking advantage of her previous banking experience.

“I’m pretty much the jack-of-all-trades. When someone needs help, I like to be able to do it,” she says.

Away from work, Kathy also enjoys giving back to her community. When the girls’ high school soccer team was without a coach and the team wouldn’t be able to play, Kathy, a life-long soccer player, stepped in to help.

“It’s giving back to my sport,” she explains. “I’ve played and had coaches through my whole life and so you just give back.”

At Country Grocer, the message is simple, but powerful: “You’ll feel like family.”

And that philosophy rings true whether you’re someone we welcome every day or someone brand new to the William Dunn Country Grocer fold.

Royal Oak team member William Dunn epitomized that philosophy for one recent customer, who commended William for his efforts to make his customers’ shopping experience a positive one.

“I observed and overheard William helping an older woman in a motorized scooter. He had a big smile on his face, was genuinely friendly and chatted with her with ease,” says Shania. “I do not usually shop at Country Grocer so I approached William and asked for his assistance in locating a certain product. Smile on his face, he walked me to the appropriate section and pointed to the product, asked me if he could be of any further help, then wished me, ‘Have a good day!’ I told him I would be letting Customer Service know of his great service.”

Mike Parr, manager of the Royal Oak Country Grocer, commends William for providing outstanding customer service and addressing two customers’ needs with great friendliness and professionalism.

Kudos!

In Brief

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Do you know a Country Grocer employee deserving recognition for an exceptional achievement? If you have been “wowed” or received outstanding customer service, take a few minutes to complete an Employee Recognition form and share your story.

Submit your Country Kudos in-store or online at countrygrocer.com

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Stylish, space-saving solutions for your home

7 Community Locations COBBLE HILL 1400 Cowichan Bay Rd. 250-743-5639 8am to 9pm 7 days per week

Few homeowners can say they don’t need a little more space. And stylish, well-organized space? What could be better than that?

The solution may well be the space-saving Murphy Wall-Bed and companion custom cabinetry, crafted right here on the Saanich Peninsula. Murphy Wall-Beds has been in business for over 22 years.

“We focus on quality,” says owner Tom Bazin. “We make a quality product from beginning to end.”

Using patented, engineered Murphy bed hardware, quality materials and local construction expertise, ensures the excellence customers have come to know and expect from the Better Business Bureau-accredited business.

Bazin credits shop foreman James York as an essential component to the local company’s success. With the company since its founding more than two decades ago, “he’s probably the most experienced Murphy bed expert in North America,” he says.

Whether you’re trying to stretch the space you have or are looking to maximize space when down-sizing, Murphy beds are perfect for creating a dual-purpose room, guest room and craft or fitness room, for example. Others appreciate their flexibility in a bachelor or assisted living suite.

In addition, “there’s all kinds of different space-saving solutions that go hand-in-hand with the Murphy beds,” Bazin says, noting their designers and craftsmen can custom-craft virtually any cabinetry to complement your bed.

And with the Murphy beds accommodating the same variety of mattresses as a conventional bed, optimal comfort is ensured.

“A Murphy bed could be used in every single home – everyone is looking for space,” Bazin says.

Unsure just how a Murphy Wall-Bed will fit into your home? Take advantage of a free design service to help you envision how a bed will work in your home, including a special computerized drawing and design program that allows you to get a three-dimensional view of your room, before you commit.

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