Friends & Family Summer 2017

COUNTRY GROCER’S QUARTERLY FOOD AND LIFESTYLE MAGAZINE

Friends & Family Summer 2017 | Complimentary

Happy Birthday!

Celebrate Canada’s 150th with Country Grocer

SECRETS OF THE GRILL

Barbecue essentials

CYCLE FOR LIFE Pedalling for hospice

Recipes I Community Events I Pets I What’s in Store

www.countrygrocer.com

2 Âť Friends&Family Âť Summer 2017 | countrygrocer.com

A warm welcome to summer Summer – one of my favourite seasons – has arrived! It follows an amazing spring here at Country Grocer. Teaming up with the David Foster Foundation for the first time was a wonderful experience.

Not only did we raise more than $14,000, we also educated our team and customers about the importance of signing up to be an organ donor. A huge PETER CAVIN, DIRECTOR, thank you to COUNTRY GROCER Kelly from Paradise Island Cheese who travelled around with the David Foster Foundation team in order to sell more raffle tickets.

And to our other suppliers who donated funds from participating products, thank you!

This summer, we are excited to celebrate Canada’s 150th birthday!

We have some exciting things happening like a gift card contest on July 1 and tree seedlings from Tree Canada – see more on page 4.

In July four of our team members will hit the pavement once again with the Cycle of Life tour to benefit hospice care on the island.

They embark on a 220km journey over to Salt Spring on July 22.

Learn more about the ride and how you can help on page 12. Again, thank you to those suppliers who are donating funds from participating products to the tour. We really appreciate the support.

I hope you have a safe and enjoyable summer. We’ll see you again in the fall!

Peter Cavin

IN THIS ISSUE

Happy Birthday!

4 4

Country Grocer celebrates Canada’s 150th

12

SECRETS OF THE SUMMER GRILL

CYCLE FOR LIFE Pedalling for Island hospice care Editor Jennifer Blyth jblyth@telus.net Group Publisher Penny Sakamoto psakamoto@blackpress.ca 250-480-3204 Associate Group Publisher Oliver Sommer osommer@blackpress.ca Advertising Sales Patty Doering pdoering@vicnews.com Production Janice Marshall Cara Robbins Circulation Stella Lee, 250-480-3285 www.blackpress.ca

818 Broughton Street, 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.

ON THE COVER

David Gray shows off his Canada 150 parade float for Country Grocer.

Jennifer Blyth photo

19

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“We have so much to be thankful for in this beautiful corner of Canada. Our stability, our generosity and our environment top my list of reasons why I love Canada.”

– Rob Lowrie, Salt Spring Country Grocer

Celebrating 150 years of Canada

Sculptor and parade float creator David Gray with his Country Grocer Canada 150 creation featuring Boris the bull – with a beaver dressed as a Mountie at the reins, of course!

Happy 150th Canada!

Country Grocer celebrates Canada’s sesquicentennial with a parade of events

BY JENNIFER BLYTH From the specially bred tulips and dahlias decorating local gardens to celebrations of local and national heritage in communities across the Island, there seems to be just a little extra red and white around these days.

Of course, you don’t turn 150 every day, so it pays to celebrate!

Leading the charge for Country Grocer is a quartet of flag-waving beavers and of course, Boris the bull.

A favourite addition to parades up and down the Island this spring, the Country Grocer floats come from the creative talents of David Gray.

Also the guy behind Galey Farms’ unique

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“I am so proud to be a Canadian. We have a wonderful, diverse culture of acceptance and equality and a truly beautiful land of rolling hills, glorious mountains and incredible wildlife... Here in Lake Cowichan we get to experience the beauty of Canada everyday in our backyard. I feel truly blessed to have been born in this wonderful place.”

– Jenn Pollner, manager, Country Grocer Lake Cowichan

Halloween creations in Victoria, David enjoys the opportunity to bring various skills together – sculpting, electronics, painting, mechanics, welding and woodworking – with Country Grocer’s summer and Christmas floats.

Cont. page 6

SUMMER HOLIDAYS even more

delicious

*Agropur was named the most trusted dairy brand in the country according to a survey conducted by the Gustavson School of Business at the University of Victoria, 2017.

Friends&Family Âť Summer 2017 | countrygrocer.com Âť 5

Cont. from page 4 This year, he had free rein to explore Canadiana at its best, hence the beavers, bushels of maple leaves, a Mountie and more.

“When you think about what represents Canada, the first thing you think of is Mounties,” David explains. “It’s just kind of fun.”

And then there’s Boris.

A life-size bull who channels his inner reindeer come Christmas time, for this year’s special Canada 150 parade floats, Boris is all bull … driven by a beaver dressed as a Mountie, of course.

Hidden inside his cavernous belly is an assortment of winches and pulleys that move his head, eyes and mouth.

The floats are just part of Country Grocer’s Canada 150 celebrations.

The stores have a whole host of exciting Canada Day promotions planned, including a gift card draw, notes Country Grocer marketing manager Tammy Averill.

In addition, the first 150 Canada Day shoppers at each store will receive a tree seedling and 20 lucky customers will be randomly selected at each store through the day to receive a free chocolate salted caramel pie!

“A wise friend said, ‘You know that we have won the lottery simply by being born in Canada.’ What other country has the same mix of security, peace, stability, social support and beauty? We are fortunate to not only live in Canada but in the most beautiful part of the country. It’s easy to take what we have for granted , but if you are fortunate enough to travel and see other parts of the world, while they are interesting and unique, you really appreciate what we have here and indeed how fortunate and blessed we are to be Canadians.”

– Mike Parr, manager, Country Grocer Royal Oak

Canada Day fun around the Island • The Cowichan Valley features Canada Day festivities throughout the area.

• Country Grocer Lake Cowichan is proudly supporting Canada 150 events in Lake Cowichan, Youbou, Honeymoon Bay and Mesachie Lake.

• The Salt Spring store is celebrating by joining the Salt Spring Chamber of Commerce’s 150 Days of Fun on Salt Spring.

On Canada Day itself, island activities include the Canada Day Show & Shine, complete with food, entertainment and a Canada Day cake big enough to share, all at the Salt Spring ball field on Rainbow Road.

The seaside village of Ganges hosts a great afternoon and evening celebration for the whole family, including an outdoor Kidz Zone with games, snacks, free barbecue and an amazing fireworks show at dusk presented by the Salt Spring Chamber of Commerce and Salt Spring Fire Rescue.

The fun continues Sunday, July 2, with the new Teddy Bear Picnic for kids of all ages. Bring a favourite teddy bear to tea at the south end of the island in

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Burgoyne Bay. Also July 2 is the new Crab Festival in Ganges waterfront Rotary Park.

Country Grocer also encourages residents and visitors to stop by the Salt Spring Island Conservancy’s Art & Nature Festival July 1 and 2.

• Nanaimo celebrates Canada’s 150th birthday with a 10-day festival, June 21 to July 1, including an Aboriginal Day Celebration, June 21 from 4 to 8 p.m. at Maffeo-Sutton Park; a Multicultural Festival in the Old City Quarter, June 24 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.; the Canadian Letters Exhibit at Nanaimo Museum and Vancouver Island University; and the Canada Day Community Party and Fireworks at Maffeo Sutton Park.

And don’t miss Black Stones & Bathtubs: A Musical Revue of The Town You Never Knew, July 2 to 9 at the Port Theatre.

Learn more at nanaimo150.com • In Victoria, head to the Gorge Waterfront for July 1 festivities from Saanich, while downtown culminates 11 days of fun in the Inner Harbour with live music and fireworks. See spirit150victoria.ca for details.

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*Agropur was named the most trusted dairy brand in the country according to a survey conducted by the Gustavson School of Business at the University of Victoria, 2017.

8 Âť Friends&Family Âť Summer 2017 | countrygrocer.com

Country Grocer an MS Society ‘Hero Among Us’ Program has helped create memorable experiences for individuals affected by MS, their families and their friends,” the MS Society’s Ashley McCartie said following the presentation at the Royal Oak store.

“The quote ‘cooking with love provides food for the soul’ truly sums up the feeling Chef Recognized as a “Hero Michael (Williams) creates for Among Us,” Country Grothe participants at First Friday cer has received the MS Lunch. The nutritious food he Society’s Division Award creates provides an opportunity of Merit. for people affected by MS to Honouring the comcome together as a community pany’s support for the soto share a meal. His warm ciety’s programs in Greater demeanor and passion for good Victoria and throughout Jennifer Blyth photo food shines through in every Vancouver Island, the Ashley McCartie, left, and Katie Ganassin, right, present the Heroes Among meal he creates,” McCartie Heroes Among Us award Us award to Country Grocer Director Pete Cavin. said. recognizes the outstanding Country Grocer Director Peter Cavin said he was honoured to contribution of a business in furthering the work of the MS Society accept the award on behalf of the Island-grown company. on a provincial and/or regional basis.

“Our relationship with the MS Society is very important to us.

“We are thrilled to be able to honour your longstanding commitIt’s a pleasure to sponsor the MS Walks on the Island, the First ment to improving the lives of those living with multiple sclerosis Friday Lunches in Victoria and the mid-Island chapter lunches in across Vancouver Island with this award. Your support of the MS Nanaimo. Thank you for nominating us,” Cavin said.

Walks, the Self-Help Group Lunches and the First Friday Lunch

Award honours Island-grown company’s support for MS Society programs on Vancouver Island

Beacon Hill Children’s Farm Come on down for a visit with our friendly farm animals. Hang out with our beloved goats in the petting area and be sure to catch our famous goat stampede!

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Friends&Family » Summer 2017 | countrygrocer.com » 9

Indulgences Summer charcuterie

Light summer dinners don’t need to be light on flavour if you include these new charcuterie delights from Duero, imported direct from Spain.

Savour Serrano ham, delicious on their own or with summer fruits, and dry cured chorizo, with a deep, rich flavour.

Bison for the BBQ Savour a lean yet tasty summer burger from Island Bison. While pricier than regular beef burgers, the flavour alone is worth the indulgence. Of course, if a beef burger has your mouth watering, you won’t go wrong with fresh-made patties from the Country Grocer butcher. Check with your store for the current varieties!

Balsamic beauties

Looking for something special to finish your favourite fish or steak? Look no further than these balsamic reductions from Edible Garden.

Choose from a classic reduction or “fig and fire” for a flavour boost you won’t soon forget.

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WHAT’S IN STORE

Chip in for new flavours

A stroll down the Country Grocer snack aisle reveals a colourful collection of new flavours in the popular Kettle chips. Check out the brightly hued bags for flavours like Korean Barbecue, Moscow Mule and – perfect for Canada 150 – Maple Bacon!

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Cycle

for

LIFE

Putting pedal to the pavement for Island hospice care JENNIFER BLYTH

While Serena Leblond is an avid cyclist, the fifth annual Cycle of Life Tour is about much more than a beautiful ride.

It’s about the stories she hears along the way and the knowledge that each kilometre that passes beneath her tires supports the Island’s hospice care providers and families in need.

“Such a great ride!” says Serena, a baker at the Cobble Hill Country Grocer. “They have worked hard to make it amazing. There was much thought put into what it means to be a rider, and it is set up to challenge some and make it easier for more easy-going riders.”

Serena joined the ride four years ago – the first year Country Grocer came on board as a sponsor.

“It didn’t take long to find a few friendly faces to (join in).

Two hundred kilometres can be challenging, so you remember the people you succeeded with.”

Through fundraising, training and the ride itself, cyclists also hear many stories from families who have benefitted from hospice.

“They’re amazingly beautiful, despite the sad reasons behind the building of those stories,” Serena says. “I think that’s my favourite moment, the one that makes us really see why we are all doing this.”

The fifth annual Cycle of Life Tour returns July 22 and 23, cycling through the South Island with an overnight stay on Salt Spring Island. Eighty riders will cover nearly 200 scenic kilometres in two days. The event raises critical funds for patients and families in need of compassionate end-of-life care.

Victoria’s Graham Robertson founded the event, inspired by a community initiative and fundraiser for a colleague who passed away from cancer in 2010. When he embarked alone on that first ride from Anchorage, Alaska down through the Yukon and B.C. to Victoria, Graham had no idea the event would grow to become an annual large-scale fundraiser for hospice care.

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Country Grocer’s Dave Hubscher and Bill Peppy cycle in last year’s tour.

Valerie Hider photos

The Cycle of Life Tour has continued to grow and evolve since 2011. A group ride format was introduced in 2013, bringing the potential for increased fundraising potential.

Last year, the tour was adopted by Victoria Hospice and to date, the Cycle of Life Tour has raised more than $360,000 for hospice care on Vancouver Island.

Joining Serena on Country Grocer’s four-member 2017 team are Jeff Zala, from the Royal Oak store’s grocery department, Bakery Operations Manager Bill Peppy and Meat Operations Manager Dave Hubscher, all riding for their third time.

For Dave, the ride is a great way to get out and get a little exercise while helping a worthwhile organization.

As one of the event sponsors, Country Grocer supplies food for the Saturday night festival on Salt Spring, including Farmhouse House Poultry Chicken, notes Dave, who’s also hoping to add fresh salmon to this year’s menu.

Chef Michael Williams prepares a delicious, fortifying dinner and breakfast for riders and volunteers who after dinner and prizes, enjoy music and dancing – if their legs are up to it!

For more information visit www.cycleoflifetour.ca.

Cycle of Life founder honoured In recognition of his dedication and achievements for Island hospice care, Cycle of Life founder Graham Robertson received the Sovereign’s Medal for Volunteers, presented by Lt.-Gov Judith Guichon earlier this year.

The medal recognizes exceptional volunteers from across the country for their “significant, sustained and unpaid contributions to their community.”

Since its inception, the Cycle of Life Tour has raised more than $365,000 for hospice care on Vancouver Island.

Hospice care in your community To learn more about hospice care in your community, visit: • Victoria Hospice Society – victoriahospice.org • Salt Spring Island Hospice Society (Bessie Dane) – saltspringhospice.org • Sooke Hospice Society – sookehospice.com • Cowichan Valley Hospice Society – cowichanhospice.org • Nanaimo Community Hospice Society – nanaimohospice.com • Oceanside Hospice Society (Parksville/Qualicum) – oceansidehospice.com • Alberni Valley Hospice Society – albernihospice.ca • Pacific Rim Hospice (Tofino/Ucluelet) – pacificrimhospice.wordpress.com • Comox Valley Hospice Society – comoxhospice.com • Campbell River Hospice Society – crhospice.org

Serena Leblond takes a well-earned rest after Day 1 of last year’s ride.

Did you know?

• Hospice care provides end-of-life care focused on palliative treatment. Hospice services across the Island rely heavily on community donations and events like the Cycle of Life Tour to continue providing care and comfort for dying patients and their families.

• Hospice staff and volunteers work to address the needs of the bereaved as well as those of the dying, offering emotional, psychological or spiritual support using a variety of programs geared to all age groups. Vancouver Island hospices reach over 12,000 patients and families each year.

• Each year Vancouver Island hospices must raise $4 million to $5 million in community donations. Every donation, no matter how small or large, is effective and gratefully appreciated. Your gift will help fund programs and services such as: - Counselling sessions to help friends and family cope with loss and bereavement; - Child-specific counselling sessions to help young children cope with the death of a parent, as well as to support parents in supporting their children in a time of grief; - Physical and recreational therapies for patients to improve their quality of life; - Specific end-of-life care training for volunteers and medical staff; - Specialized mattresses to provide the best comfort possible for patients who have lost their mobility; - Advanced medical equipment that allows patients to safely self-administer medications that relieve their pain; - Transportation and equipment costs for patients to receive in-home care, and avoid difficult emergency room visits; - Information packages to help guide families providing in-home care to a loved one.

• Can’t ride in the Cycle of Life yourself? Sponsor a rider – including your Country Grocer team members – through www.cycleoflifetour.ca.

Friends&Family » Summer 2017 | countrygrocer.com » 13

Gregg Eligh photos

RECIPES from Chef Michael

Taco Salad The base for this salad is flexible – use any greens or greens and veggie mix you like.

The salsa is a simple mix of fresh fruit and veg with a squeeze of lime and a pinch of salt. The dressing is awesome and what the recipe is all about – and great to have in your repertoire!

Ingredients: Dressing: 6 - 8 cloves roasted garlic (see step 1 and 2) 1 Tbsp chipotle pepper 1 Tbsp lime juice 1 Tbsp honey 1 egg yolk ¼ tsp each of sea salt and cumin Approx. 100ml garlic oil (see step 1 and 2) Salad base: Spinach, green cabbage (thin-sliced), Yellow or red pepper, (thin-sliced) Salsa: Fresh tomato (diced), red onion (finely diced) Mango (diced), Lime juice and salt Que Pasa blue corn tortilla chips, shredded cheese and marinated chicken for garnish Method: 1. We are going to start this recipe by making some oil-roasted garlic cloves. Peel 2 or 3 whole bulbs of garlic. Place all of the cloves into a very small pot or pan and then cover with extra virgin olive oil.

2. Heat on the stove-top until gently bubbling and cook until the garlic is golden brown. Remove from the heat and cool to room temperature.

3. Once the oil is cool you can make the dressing. Add the garlic, cloves, chipotle, lime juice, honey, egg yolk, salt and cumin to a blender.

4. Put on the lid and turn the blender on low, puree the chipotle, then start slowly adding the oil through the small hole in the lid. Continue adding the oil in a slow, steady stream until you have a nice dressing consistency. Note: Use raw egg yolk dressings within five days.

5. Mix desired amount of salad dressing into the salad base and you’re ready to plate.

Scatter a handful of tortilla chips on a plate, mound up a generous portion of mixed salad and top with chicken, some of the salsa and finally some shredded cheese.

Time to enjoy!

Vancouver Island Salad

Carrot and Beet Salad with Scallion Emulsion

This salad is composed of ingredients cultivated on Vancouver Island and grown or produced within 100 km of your home, a great way to get familiar with the Vancouver Island abundance.

Make an effort to use them often!

This is a fresh salad with raw beets and carrots brought to life by a vibrant and flavourful dressing. You can mix the dressing into the carrots and beets and let it marinate for a few hours (or days for that matter) in the fridge or just drizzle it right onto the raw shredded veggies for a quick option.

Ingredients: Spinach Red pepper (sliced thin) Onion (sliced thin) Tomato (sliced) Hazelnuts (crushed) Natural Pastures Brie (sliced) ¼ cup raspberries (fresh or defrosted) ½ cup yogurt ¼ cup buttermilk 2 Tbsp honey (optional) Kosher salt and fresh ground pepper to taste Method: 1. Combine raspberries, yogurt, buttermilk, honey, salt and pepper in a small mixing bowl.

2. Stir well to combine and mash the raspberries until incorporated.

3. Combine desired amount of spinach, peppers, onion and tomato in a mixing bowl and toss to combine.

4. Plate and then top salad with desired amount of dressing, hazelnuts and brie cheese. Now eat!

Variations: Strawberries, blackberries and blueberries are all grown on Vancouver Island and all make a great substitute for the raspberries if so desired.

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Ingredients: 1 teaspoon fresh ginger ½ of a shallot 2 Tbsp lime juice 2 Tbsp soy sauce 3 stalks green onion (scallion) 1 egg yolk ¼ - ½ cup grape seed oil Shredded beets and carrots Toasted sesame seeds and lime zest to garnish Method: 1. Add the ginger, shallot, lime juice, soy sauce, green onion and egg yolk to a blender. Puree until smooth.

2. Now slowly with the blender running on low, add the grape seed oil until you get a nice pourable dressing consistency that is not too thick. Note: Use raw egg yolk dressings within 5 days.

3. Peel your beets and carrots and then shred on a cheese grater.

4. Now either toss the shredded veggies with the dressing or arrange the undressed shredded veggies on a plate and then drizzle the dressing over top liberally.

Variations: For a mellower version you can sauté the shallots and ginger before blending them into the dressing.

CHEF MICHAEL WILLIAMS

Under

PRESSURE

I have noticed a kitchen tool that is quietly cooking temperature from 212 F up to as making a comeback in kitchens across North high as 250 F (depending on the pressure America. In fact, I have only just recently dis- setting); and second, it forces the hot liquid covered just how fun, versatile and amazing for each particular recipe/process into the this tool is myself. It saves me time as well food. This means that not only does your as electricity, pushes less heat in my kitchen food cook faster but recipes come out with (which is great over the hot summer months) beautiful depth of flavour. Imagine if you and produces amazing food. could create an intense chicken stock in one This tool has been around for centuries hour instead of three, beans perfectly cooked and has come in and out of favour many in 20 minutes, fall-off-the-bone ribs in 50 times. (In fact, one may have dangerously ex- minutes, risotto in six minutes with no stirploded in a kitchen that you once ate from.) ring needed! It really is a fantastic tool and I What we’re talking about is pressure only see more people taking advantage. cookers, and that last statement has a lot of There are two general categories of people wary of using one in their kitchen pressure cookers … the stove-top and the I’m sure, but fear not. High-quality modern electric. The stove-top units are used as any pressure cookers are equipped with multiple other pot or pan and are heated by the elevalves to make sure ment on your stove. They explosions in your are generally very simple “Not only does your food kitchen are no more, units, although some have cook faster but recipes unlike their poorly varied pressure settings made predecessors depending on what you come out with beautiful from the 1950s that are cooking. All you do depth of flavour.” gave the pressure is put the lid on, heat on cooker such a poor name. high until the pressure valve starts releasSo now that your anxiety has been quelled ing and then turn the temperature down to and you know safety is no longer an issue, low. At this point you need to set a timer for let’s look at how they work. whatever it is you’re cooking and then either With an airtight gasket-lined lid, a presallow it to depressurize naturally or manusure cooker will trap steam inside the pot ally according to each model’s instructions. which builds pressure. This added pressure The electric-style cooker plugs into an outlet does two things: first, it effectively raises the and sits on your counter. They have their

own element and are often highly programmable. I have the ‘Breville Fast Slo Pro’ which is truly amazing. It’s like the hugely popular Instant Pot, only higher quality. With dozens of pre-programmed settings all you need to do is navigate the simple menu to choose beans, rice, bone-in meat, stew, etc. and it takes care of the rest. Incredibly, it’s also a slow-cooker, steamer and pressure steamer all in one unit.

Whether you are working with a stove-top version or an electric version, what you cook in a pressure cooker needs to have liquid in recipe. So soups, stews, curries, casseroles, cooking grains and braising meats are the most common processes that you find happening in a pressure cooker, but that is not all.

You can even make desserts like cheesecake, crème brulee, rice pudding and bread pudding. If you’re interested in giving this great tool a chance I think you’ll be happy you did.

You’ll find a plethora of recipes online and learn there’s lots of fun to be had!

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Friends&Family » Summer 2017 | countrygrocer.com » 15

From all of us at Country Grocer, Happy 150th Birthday, Canada!

Garth

Evangeline

Proud to be part of your community since 1984.

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

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

Loving the numbers game South Island accounting team keeps Country Grocer humming JENNIFER BLYTH

Jennifer Blyth photo

Country Grocer’s South Island accounting team: From left, Sue Franklin, Andrew Cavin, Aaron Morrison, Lisa Jackson, Shauna Pardiac and Mark Showers.

In high school, Mark Showers knew a career in numbers was in his future. To be able to blend that with a people-focused team environment at Country Grocer has brought together the best of both worlds.

“I have always really enjoyed accounting – I love how logical things are,” Mark says.

After starting at Country Grocer as a teen, the now accounting manager spoke with his managers about exploring opportunities on the accounting side of the business.

“I loved it, and things just kept moving forward,” Mark says. “They really supported me, trained me and gave me the opportunity to succeed.”

That approach points to the “people” side of the work he also enjoys – the

interaction with his team, store managers, vendors and customers is the perfect complement to the analytical work.

Much of the business is involved with the accounts payable side of things, working with vendors and building those relationships.

Team members Lisa Jackson, Aaron Morrison and Sue Franklin oversee individual stores on the South Island – Esquimalt, Royal Oak and Cobble Hill – along with payroll administrator Shauna Pardiac and office supervisor Andrew Cavin, who also undertakes myriad other duties as one of the second generation of the Country Grocer family owners.

Also helping out part time is Andrew’s mom, Laura Cavin, who like the rest of

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the Country Grocer family brings years of experience behind the scenes.

“I’m really happy with the team we’ve organized here. It’s a really fun, enthusiastic environment,” Mark says.

As one of the longstanding team members on the administration team, Sue is also well-known to many Victoria-area non-profit groups as the whiz behind the stores’ Save-A-Tape fundraising program.

While accounting is much of what they do, it’s really people who are at the core of the team. “In my view, we’re more of a support team,” Mark says. Whether vendors, the community groups, team members, or management, “we try to treat them just how we’d like to be treated. It’s all about customer service.”

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Friends&Family » Summer 2017 | countrygrocer.com » 17

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Secrets of the Grill Tips and tricks to enjoying your best grilling season ever JENNIFER BLYTH Gone are the days when grilling was limited to hamburgers, hot dogs and steaks.

From pizza and veggie kabobs to whole chickens and a new take on a good old-fashioned tenderloin, people are using their grills like never before.

So, to get the “how to” from the people who know, we chatted with Country Grocer’s resident experts.

“My favourite poultry is a beer can whole chicken – very simple, tasty and fool-proof if you have the right little unit to hold the chicken, which you can pick up at most places that sell barbecues,” says Dave Hubscher, Country Grocer Meat Operations Manager.

The good news for novice grillers is that some of the most common pitfalls are the easiest to avoid.

“The most common mistake is not checking the propane tank before grilling – happens all the time,” Dave says. “Halfway through grilling and you run out of propane.”

It’s also important to make sure your grill is clean – you don’t want to pick up residue from last week’s dinner.

“I scrub the grill, heat it up, then give it another scrub,” Dave says.

John Post, meat manager at Country Grocer’s Cobble Hill store, agrees.

“You have to have a really clean grate, and keep it oiled up.”

As with all cooking, “have all your prep work done ahead of time,” John recommends. That way you can focus on the task at hand when it comes time to grill.

Ensuring your grill is hot enough before adding the meat is another essential.

When cooking a steak, you have to get it hot enough to sear in the flavours, and avoid moving it around too much – be patient.

Another pitfall to avoid? Applying the barbecue sauce too early. “This will cause your meat to charcoal, especially on chicken and pork, but we’ve all done it,” Dave says.

It’s also a good idea to remember barbecues offer both direct and indirect heat, depending on what you’re cooking, notes John.

For meats like ribs or chicken, he often opts for indirect heat, off to the side and away from the direct flames.

Want to take your grilling to the next level?

“When it comes to steaks, let them rest for a few minutes. Most of us just dig in right away, but I believe resting them a bit helps retain more flavours,” Dave says.

As for flavourings, don’t overdo it.

“Too many people over-season their steak. Personally I think it takes away from the meat flavour. It might sound boring, but I just use a little olive oil, garlic salt and pepper. I do this on just about everything. If I’m having company, they can add more spice or sauce if they prefer.”

Given that beef isn’t as inexpensive as it once was, some shoppers will down-grade when buying steaks. “But if you’re only eating a steak once a week, every other week or once a month even, buy a good steak, don’t be disappointed. I say to all my family and friends, compare it to going out to a good steakhouse – you know what you pay for a good steak there,” Dave says.

Friends&Family » Summer 2017 | countrygrocer.com » 19

Need to know: What’s the most frequently asked customer question of Country Grocer Meat Operations Manager Dave Hubscher?

Plain and simple, shoppers want to know the best steak to barbecue, Dave says. “I always lead them in the direction of a beef striploin. I just feel that they’re consistent and have the best flavour.”

John Post, Country In addition to which Grocer Cobble Hill steak, how long to grill it is meat manager another common question, says John Post, Country Grocer Cobble Hill meat manager. Cooking time will vary based on a few factors, including thickness of the steak, heat of the barbecue and personal preference, but the best way to test for “doneness” is by feeling the steak – and practice. The more firm the centre of the steak is, the more well done it is.

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20 » Friends&Family » Summer 2017 | countrygrocer.com

Chris Hamblin, Country Grocer Royal Oak

Taste the benefits of dry aging Now in the Country Grocer butcher case is something a little new ... and old: “Vintage 35-day dry-aged beef.”

Dry aging allows the beef to tenderize with its natural enzymes, enhancing meat with the natural flavour and tenderness of a well-marbled cut of beef. The longer the beef dry ages, the more intense and complex the flavours become.

Once the aging is complete, Vintage’s artisans hand-trim and portion the beef to Country Grocer’s specifications, before it arrives in store to await your barbecue! Check with your local store for availability.

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It’s all about community for new Salt Spring duo JENNIFER BLYTH Salt Spring Islanders might notice two new folks sporting Country Grocer’s colourful logo at community events.

Pauline Martens and Rob Lowrie joined the store’s Community Relations team this spring, taking over from retiring long-time staffer Rick MacKinnon.

Pauline and Rob, who coincidentally both moved to the island in 2009, look forward to their new roles within the locally grown company.

The two will look after donation requests, corporate sponsorships and supporting food, educational and arts programs for children and youth. As the two become the go-to people for marketing and store promotions, they’ll help co-ordinate store events and holiday celebrations in addition to parking lot activities such as barbecues and car washes.

“We enjoy being able to represent this company, which is held in such high regard locally. We enjoy meeting with community members and lending a helping hand with all kinds of programs,” notes the Winnipegborn Pauline.

Not that it’s their first Country Grocer experience.

Rob was involved with Country Grocer when he was working with Salt Spring Hospice. Pauline, who has been with the local school district for five years, is impressed with the company’s longstanding

MEET THE TEAM

mandate to support programs in the community.

“Country Grocer has a very good reputation and the position of Community Relations allows us to give a helping hand on Country Grocer’s behalf,” notes Pauline.

Outside their work with the store, Pauline is mom to two teenagers, continues to work part-time for the school district and helps her husband run an organic farm/nursery and B&B, while you might catch Rob working in the garden, hiking the island with his dogs or indulging his passion for photography.

Country Grocer Salt Spring’s new community relations team, He’ll tap some of those Pauline Martens and Rob Lowrie, know they have big shoes to skills in creating videos for fill as they take over for the retiring Rick MacKinnon. the store as well. our in-store TVs and might even be seen “Keeping it simple, by at our local movie theatre ‘The Fritz,’” he using an iPhone, we recently completed adds. “‘Local’ is a big deal here on Salt three short profiles on local suppliers,” Spring!

Rob notes. “I see real value in the contin“We’ve also had a short promo with ued promotion of our many local suppliChris Cottrel from our meat department ers whose ‘fan base’ is very strong. Their on the new line of 35-day dry-aged beef comments about the store have been very and using video, we promote things like positive. Our videos air not only on our special holiday hours or our parking lot Facebook page, but also on the Salt Spring barbecues. We also have some very cameraExchange, which has a large base of folfriendly staff members, including Pauline!” lowers. The videos will eventually run on

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Meet the Star of the produce section JENNIFER BLYTH Produce is a growing industry for The Star Group of companies. After its founding in Saskatoon 27 years ago, Star Produce has now expanded to Winnipeg, Calgary and Vancouver, notes Devon Kennedy.

“We work directly with growers from all around the world,” Devon says.

“We’re always searching for big taste in all of our products that we can bring directly to the consumer.”

Today Star Produce – part of The Star Group – is a leader in grower-direct initiatives with more than 100 offshore programs.

Here at home, more than 200,000 square feet of refrigerated distribution space across Western Canada allows for daily distribution across the country.

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While that allows Country Grocer shoppers access to internationally grown fruits and vegetables throughout the seasons, the company has also pursued innovations here at home.

It starts right at the growing level, from product professionals working directly with seed, packaging, logistics and industry partners to state-of-the-art greenhouses using integrated pest-management systems.

It all works together to maximize the quality and yield while minimizing the harmful effects to the environment.

The Star Group has also expanded their offerings with a brand new facility that will grow lettuce year-round while offering exceptional yield, varieties and flavours, Devon says.

‘It’s all about getting the taste back into the produce.’

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www.fountaintire.com Friends&Family » Summer 2017 | countrygrocer.com » 25

PETS

PART OF THE FAMILY Falling under the “meant to be” category, Belinda and Warren Lucoe recently welcomed Anton to their family following an opportune meeting at a local pet shop.

While picking up materials for the family hamster, a paw pushed through the kennel reserved for rescue cats awaiting their forever home, reaching out just as Warren passed.

That paw was all the year-old grey tabby needed to get the Lucoes’ attention, and a conversation about adoption soon followed with the store clerks.

Even then, though, Anton’s adoption wasn’t a sure thing as another family had previously expressed interest in the engaging green-eyed feline.

The Lucoes and their three teens were thrilled to get the call several days later and the Royal Oak-area family welcomed their new addition.

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

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TIDBITS

The gift of life

Photo by Dawn Gibson/Black Press

Country Grocer marketing manager Tammy Averill and daughter Madison greet guests at the David Foster Foundation fundraising barbecue this spring at the Esquimalt store.

Thanks to Country Grocer’s generous customers and suppliers, the Island stores raised an amazing $14,372.20 for the David Foster Foundation this spring.

Through community barbecues, information tables and donations, Country Grocer helped raise not only money to support the foundation’s work, but also much-needed awareness of the need for organ donation.

Founded in 1987, the David Foster Foundation helps provide the gift of life to families whose children need lifesaving organ transplants. Over the past 30 years, it has provided vital support to more than 1,000 families.

Learn more about the foundation at davidfosterfoundation.com. To learn more about organ donation in British Columbia, visit transplant.bc.ca.

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45 years of celebrating local Canada isn’t the only one celebrating a big birthday this year.

Country Grocer’s Salt Spring store marks 45 years of working with local farmers and producers – a commitment celebrated in their special signage created to mark the milestone.

In addition to the photos of local producers depicted above, another version shows a similar collage showcasing local teams, organizations and community groups the store and staff have supported through the years.

As an Island-grown company, Country Grocer is committed to giving back by supporting both local growers and producers, and the many people and organizations making Salt Spring the special place it is.

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IN YOUR COMMUNITY ESQUIMALT & VICTORIA June 13, 30, 27, July 4, 11 & 18 – Memorial Park Music Fest, featuring different entertainers each week, 6 to 7:30 p.m. Info: esquimalt.ca.

Bird Observatory. Meet at the parking lot off Royal Oak Drive. Info: saanich.ca.

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June 17 – Bloomin’ Beautiful Community Garden Tour, including the Japanese Garden at Gorge Park, Gardens at Saxe Point Park and four residential gardens, 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Info: esquimalt.ca.

July 1 – Gorge Canada Day Picnic and Gorge on Art, 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. (9:30 a.m. start for Gorge on Art. Celebrate Canada Day, Canada 150 and the community’s vibrant arts community along the Gorge Waterway. Info: saanich.ca.

July 9 – Saanich Strawberry Festival, a grand event for all ages, with family activities and strawberries and ice cream, 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at Beaver Lake Park. Info: saanich.ca.

July 9, Aug. 13 & Sept. 10 – Guided bird walk at Outerbridge Park, 9 to 10:30 a.m., hosted by the Rocky Point

June 30 to Aug. 7 – 39 Days of July, free festivities in downtown Duncan from Canada Day weekend to BC Day weekend, including music daily from noon till 8 p.m. in the train station park, with extra concerts Wednesdays in City Square.

July 2 – Cowichan on Tap Beer Festival, noon to 5 p.m. in the City Square, downtown Duncan. Enjoy music, delicious bites and great local beer.

Proceeds support KidSport Cowichan.

Info: cowichanontap.ca.

July 15 – Duncan Summer Festival grand parade, 10 a.m. starting from Island Savings Centre.

July 15 & Aug. 12 – Movies in the Park, beginning at dusk in the Kerry Park Rec Centre sports fields. Admission by donation. Info: cvrd.bc.ca.

July 21 to 23 – 33rd Island Folk Fest from the Cowichan Folk Guild, a

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Info: islandsfolkfestival.ca.

July 22 & 23 – Canadian Women’s Ride Day, Cowichan Exhibition Grounds. Info: canadianwomensrideday.com.

Aug. 12 & 13 – 24-hour Hockey Game, 9 a.m. to 9 a.m. at the Kerry Park Rec Centre Sept. 15 – Fall Fun Fair, 5 to 7 p.m. at the Shawnigan Lake Community Centre.

Free admission. Info: cvrd.bc.ca.

Sept. 29 to Oct. 8 – Savour Cowichan Festival, showcasing local artisan food and drink producers from the Cowichan Valley region.

LAKE COWICHAN June 5 to 11 – Take in Cowichan Lake Days, with its parade, logger sports, Lake Days Dance and more. Info: cowichanlakedays.com.

July 14 & 15 – Join Cowichan Lake Recreation, Honeymoon Bay Community Society and Honeymoon Bay Fire Department for the annual

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Aug. 18 to 20 – Vancouver Island Exhibition, featuring special events, entertainment and agricultural displays at Beban Park. Info: viex.ca.

Aug. 24 to 27 – Nanaimo Blues Festival in Maffeo Sutton Park. Info: nanaimobluesfestival.com.

SALT SPRING June 18 – Summer Solstice, 12 to 5 p.m.​Celebrate the beginning of the summer season with Jose Sanchez and his Cuban Party band.

Info: saltspringvineyards.com.

Jennifer Blyth photo

Honeymoon Bay Days festivities, including parade, pancake breakfast and more. Info: www.cvrd.bc.ca.

Aug. 3 to 6 – Sunfest at Laketown Ranch, featuring headliners Toby Keith, Little Big Town and many more. Info: sunfestconcerts.com.

NANAIMO June 18 – Family Fishing Day at Colliery Dam Park, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Learn to

fish, make crafts, play games, help with a trout release and more.

Wednesdays, July 5 to Aug. 30 – Concerts in the Park, 6 to 7:30 p.m.

In July, take in the music at the Bowen Amphitheatre. In August, head to Muffeo Sutton Park. Info: nanaimo.ca.

July 15 & 16 – Nanaimo Ukulele Festival at Nanaimo Neighbourhood Church, 4951 Rutherford Rd. Info: nanaimoukulelefestival.ca.

July 8 – Lady Minto Charity Golf Tournament at Salt Spring Island Golf Club, in support of the Lady Minto Hospital Foundation. Info: ladymintofoundation.com/golf.

July 16 – Heritage Day at the Farmers’ Institute, a free event featuring the Bittancourt Museum, blacksmithing, spinning and weaving, old-time activities and more. 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. at the Farmers’ Institute grounds.

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What’s in the summer shopping bag of Nanaimo Timberman Will Johansen, a two-year veteran of the Country Grocer-supported Intermediate squad and junior team call-up? Lots of healthy proteins, fruits and veggies to help with those fast breaks and scoring opportunities.

1. Salmon 2. Chicken 3. Greek yogurt with raspberries 4. Bagels and peanut butter 5. Watermelon

6. Cherries 7. Blueberries 8. Corn on the cob 9. Hummus and pita 10. Red and yellow peppers and dip

n example of that quality.

ADVERTISEMENT the mini trampoline it appears to be, the Bellicon Rebounder Focus presents: Triangle Healing ive research by an engineer, a metallurgist, lymphologists, gether they created a rebounder that not only givespeople very attain optimum health ENTION Helping angle Healing Products Mar14_Layout 1 2/17/14 1:30 PM Page 1 ainage, but also generates a profoundly life-giving electro used. Simply stated, users find that the up and down moveiane Regan, owner of Triangle Healing Products, researches alternative health raises than jumping—will trigger every cellshe in markets the body into products to help people attain optimum and then cutting-edge Focus presents: Triangle Healing health. TheTriangle Swiss-made IQAir HealthPro Plus is one such product. ffectively opening up the lymphatic system.

Healing IQAir has received more #1 product reviews than any other air purifier on the e Regan confirms, “It IMMEDIATE is one of the ATTENTION healthiest and safest IMPORTANT:

Triangle Healing offers an amazing range of D well-researched products that enhance well-being.

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High quality market. It is endorsed by the American Lung Association, trusted by hospitals (the water is vital for optimum health only one powerful enough to be used in the SARS outbreak), clinically proven as effec-

tive for allergic asthma and is 100 percent ozone-free. The filters are not cleaned—they erent weight Structured Water Units The all-natural way to water the ultimate health food. Diane Regan, owner of Triangle are replaced. Diane says, “So many air cleaners make a lot oftructured noise and theyisjust ounds, the combat chronic illness: low Healing Products, compares it to water that is tumbling down a waterfall— move the air. This one really cleans the air.” She gets emails from customers who also comes frequency pulsed if you can capture a glass and drink it, you feel invigorated. tell her that someone in the family is breathing better for the first time. is dead. and is then forced through old Diane reminds us that both air and water quality play“Our vital tap roleswater in our every It sits in a holding tank w-in legs to electrometric field therapy D pipes in order to get into our homes.

Structured water is the most impressive thing day well-being.

For a simple and effective means of achieving balanced water, the roll it away afterforever.” four decades in the business,” says Diane.

Kenrico Forever Alkaline Water Stick Purifier is a “magicI have wandfound, that lasts UDING zing support Natural Action Water units are easy to use in your shower, under your sink, in Place this stick into your water bottle, your garden or at your house’s water main inlet. The most popular is the handthermos or water pitcher in the fridge, those with held portable unit. Simply pourPurifi your water Forever Alkaline Water Stick er into the unit, where it tumbles through and it will transform regular water into n accompageometrically-designed balls, becoming structured along the way, mimicking the alkaline water. will get you + Omni Magnetic way water moves in a waterfall. The water itself isiMRS the only thing that moves— Triangle also offers Natural Action Water units, which will transform tap you to come 24 HOUR REPLY REQUESTED there are no mechanical parts and Resonance Stimulation water into energized pH-balanced nothing to replace. ne out. PLEASE CHECK CAREFULLY, INCLUDING water. This maintenance-free water When water is “structured” in this e, check out CONTACT INFORMATION. structuring system works without chemway, all its “negative memories” are icals, filters, salts, electricity or magnets.

“People who erased, allowing it to return to its natural You will find that you use less soap state of perfect balance. Anything unsupwn garden Natural Technologies when washing; that coffee and juices portiveAction to life (such as chloramine) becomes and those taste better; flowers last longer; and benign, its harmful effects neutralized, pets and fish tanks are healthier. , are fans of and all beneficial mineral activity is The BioElectric Shield Part of maintaining optimum health enhanced and more easily absorbed. says Diane. for protection from electrois finding a way to detoxify and rejuPositive effects are numerous. Structured magnetic radiation & other of either a venate in order to deal with every day water prevents and removes corrosion people’s negative energy. stresses in life. will fit under of pipes; improves crop and garden “People don’t do enough today to growth; coffee tastes better; cut flowers washer size The Best Germany BioElectric Kenrico Lifetime Ion Shower Head createfrom a good sweat,” states Diane. last longer; pets andShield livestock are healthier; muscles theare human body model that There are 638Radiant Healthin Saunas a new generand fish tanks are cleaner. People find onofainfrared Bellicon® rebounder saunas, designed to ety of coun- and bouncingation that they drink more water yet make top:trips Kenrico Stick; you detox; relieve chronic pain Clockwise from fewer to theWater bathroom.

This is because them. ble to grow engages all ofhelp Sauna; water IQ Airispurifier conditions; lose weight; and relax, Radiant Health structured properly absorbed by and microwithout exposing you to excess electhe cells within your body, making it a or, the highest tromagnetic radiation. Ifpesticides, your only experience with a sauna is at the gym, you Athletes are your own kitchen. And, you are in control—no truly effective hydrator. love it. d dehydrator in for a pleasant surprise. Diane lists the differences in a Radiant Health Sauna: Diane invites you“The to visit Triangle waste. s quiet! air is cooler, you can stay in longer, and you can even read a book.”

Healing Health to taste a glass of struc- Top: Kenrico Ion Shower Head or a smaller investment, consider Ifthe 3000 roducts youFreshlife don’t have the spaceto forgrow a sauna, consider an Amethyst Bio-Mat to achieve tured water, while you check out the Bottom: (r) Portable Natural Action ctoria, theautomatic same therapeutic benefits.

It produces high qualitylarge infrared meanssparse of branches Water unit; (l) Kenrico Water Purifier nd.

ThisBCeasy to use model has an watering system leafyrays plantbywhose glehealing.com super fiber and natural amethyst.

One woman bought a Bio-Mat with a gift have and thick rubbery leaves been Toll Free: 1.888.370.1818 l er of your kitchen. certificate she had received from work colleagues. Whendramatically she reported her first good to plentiful branches covered with dark green soft transformed or greens can be used to make fresh juice from your night’s sleep in years, Diane says,new “Guess who came in and bought some?”

Diane leaves. Plants, notes Diane, are immune to the placebo effect! says simply, “The Bio Mat sells itself.” Come in to Triangle complementary and Mincer, another quality product available at Triangle.

Onfor thea topic of water, Triangle also offers the Kenrico Ion Shower Head, a fully Radiant Health Sauna sessionthe in one of their treatment showerhead filled with natural quartz, citrines crystals and rare want Who shops transparent at Triangle?

People who h a small footprint on your counter, Slowstar rapidly rooms. cuts With CarbonFlow™ heating, the latest Watch for the Bellicon Rebounder and the Urban Cultivator to be featured in Japanese hot spring minerals.

This unique showerhead promises to refresh, uce into a high yieldfar-infrared of juiceupcoming with a issues. reduced amount of technology from Japan at reinvigorate and revitalize as it soothes away stress, stimulates blood circulas, nut butters or pâté, or you lower like tothan experiment with sauces, a price most competitors. tion and even treats certain disease symptoms—all with a lifetime warranty. cing attachment of the Slowstar.

“You can not only make Low monthly payments OAC Triangle Healing ProductsKenrico also makes the Forever Alkaline Water Stick Purifier often referred to as “ABC Magic Wand that lasts for a lifetime.” Not only does it transform regular Avenue, Victoria, all the time, but what you make is better for770 you Spruce and tastes water into alkaline water; it also adds magnesium and purifies water by reducing 250-370-1818 • www.trianglehealingproducts.com excited about getting optimum health,” reports Diane.

Drop bacteria and other contaminants. The mini cylinder can be used with your water Triangle Healing Products, its owner, its employees do not provide medical advice or treatment. They provide information and bottle, thermosofand other containers. It too comes with a lifetime warranty. for yourself. products that you may choose after evaluating your health needs and in consultation with health professionals your choosing. www.trianglehealing.com Spring is a fantastic time to cleanse and renew your body. Come to Triangle Healing 770 Spruce • 250-370-1818 s and titanium cookware will beAvenue featured next month.

MARCH 2014 Edition

S

Helping people attain optimum health.

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Triangle Healing Products 0 Spruce Avenue, Victoria, BC 8 • www.trianglehealingproducts.com

er, its employees do not provide medical advice or treatment. They provide information and r evaluating your health needs and in consultation with health professionals of your choosing.

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to transform their health.

Products and find out more about how water is a vital part of your healthful journey.

Triangle Healing Products 770 Spruce Avenue, Victoria, BC 250-370-1818 • www.trianglehealingproducts.com Triangle Healing Products, its owner, its employees do not provide medical advice or treatment. They provide information and products that you may choose after evaluating your health needs and in consultation with health professionals of your choosing.

Friends&Family » Summer 2017 | countrygrocer.com » 31