Country Grocer Friends & Family Winter 2015

Country Grocer’s quarterly food and lifestyle magazine

Friends Family & Winter 2015-16 | Complimentary

WILD for Water Buffalo Winter salads

The buoys from Port Hardy

The Power of Purple www.countrygrocer.com

w

Seasonal Affective Disorder or the “winter blues” affects many Canadians. Our long winters and lack of sunshine can lead to low energy and feelings of depression. It has long been understood that taking Vitamin D daily can help, but new studies are showing that fish oil may be as important. Specifically, the omega-3 fatty acid EPA (that is found in fish) has shown promise in elevating mood and treating depression.

With so many fish oils on the market, how do you know which one to choose? If you are like most people, you would rather take a capsule than drink fish oil liquid. When choosing a fish oil capsule for treating mood, make sure it has over 1000mg of omega-3 per capsule with the majority being EPA. To avoid “fishy burps”, look for a product that is enteric coated and contains Lipase for ultimate digestibility.

Third party testing and certification for quality and sustainability of fish oils is very important. In fact, the health of your family and our planet depends upon it. International Fish Oil Standards (IFOS) is the only true third party testing program for fish oils. The IFOS stamp of approval ensures purity, potency and freshness.

Norwegian Gold fish oils are the only line of fish oils in Canada that are also Friend of the Sea certified for sustainability across the entire line. You can feel good about choosing Norwegian Gold.

Super Critical Omega delivers all of this, PLUS 1000 units of Vitamin D in each capsule.

Fight back against SAD by getting a little bit of sunshine each day and taking Super Critical Omega. It is your best defense this winter!

TESTIMONIAL “ Winter is hell for me. I honestly feel like I just want to stay in bed as soon October hits. A friend of mine mentioned I might have seasonal affective disorder so I spoke to my doctor and while it exists, he really had nothing to offer to help me. After doing my own research I decided to try vitamin d and fish oil. I picked up Super Critical Omega from your company because it had both and within the first bottle, I felt like a new person. Now I tell everyone about it! My mom, my brother and my boyfriend are all taking it as well. Please never stop making this, it has changed my life.”

Sincerely, Ella F, Sudbury Ontario

To learn more about Renew Life omega-3’s please visit www.renewlife.ca

Winter gives us reason to celebrate Welcome to the winter edition of Country Grocer’s Friends & Family Magazine.

We had a terrific fall season and we thank you for spending our 31st anniPETER CAVIN, DIRECTOR, versary with us. COUNTRY GROCER We had a lot of fun with the anniversary contests both in our stores and on Facebook.

We have to send a big thank you to our suppliers as well – because of you we were able to offer great anniversary pricing throughout the four-week celebration.

Looking ahead, there’s still lots to talk about. In this winter edition we feature our first annual Purple Pansies for Epilepsy program. We’ve teamed up with local growers in an effort to support those living with epilepsy on the Island – read more about it on page 14.

We’re also proud to let you know about our recent partnership with the Island’s own Hardy Buoys smoked salmon from Port Hardy.

It’s a high-quality product and even better, it comes from the Island.

You’ll find it in the seafood section of your favourite Country Grocer.

You can read more about their family on page 10.

Yogurt fans will also want to read about another new product – water buffalo yogurt – crafted locally in the Comox Valley. See the story on page 4 for another Island success story.

As always, if you have any suggestions for future articles, please don’t hesitate to contact us at marketing@countrygrocer.com Peter Cavin

IN THIS ISSUE

Wild for Water Buffalo

Comox Valley farm creates yummy water buffalo yogurt

4 ⁄2

⁄0

Chinese BBQ Pork Char Siu Ricotta Stuffed Eggplant Roll

Savouring salmon

⁄‹

⁄›

THE POWER OF PURPLE

WINTER SALADS

Editor Jennifer Blyth

jblyth@telus.net

Group Publisher

Penny Sakamoto psakamoto@blackpress.ca Associate Group Publisher

Oliver Sommer osommer@blackpress.ca

Design

Jennifer Blyth and Lily Chan

Circulation

250-360-0817

22

MAKING DREAMS COME TRUE

Sales

Patty Doering pdoering@vicnews.com

> RECIPES: Nut Butter and Jam Smoothie

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 » Winter 2015 | countrygrocer.com » 3

Wild

Water Buffalo

for

Comox Valley farm family wows yogurt world with new water buffalo yogurt

JENNIFER BLYTH There’s a new name in yogurt in the Country Grocer dairy case and it may well become your new favourite.

This winter, Country Grocer welcomes water buffalo yogurt from McClintock’s Farm in the Comox Valley, the family farm of Val and Gerry McClintock, and daughter Sandra.

Domesticated in Asia for thousands of years, water buffalo are incredibly docile, curious and friendly animals; they’ll come out to greet you and follow you around, says Sandra, pictured above.

McClintock’s Farm was established in 1988 with the purchase of 23 acres in Dove Creek, where they planted blueberries and purchased a few cows and calves. The beef herd and berries both expanded over the next decade until in 1996, the McClintocks decided to become more than hobby farmers, purchasing Val’s family’s 25 acres – a designated century farm that has been in the family

4 » Friends&Family » Winter 2015 | countrygrocer.com

since 1876.

Expansion continued when the opportunity to buy the neighbouring 10 acres came up in 2004 and again in February 2010 with the acquisition of another 20 acres in Dove Creek.

Sandra had been working at a dairy farm for about a decade, but when a change of ownership led to her joining her parents, a friend got them thinking about water buffalo, coincidentally at the time a herd was available at a Duncan farm.

“We bought 15 of them and then didn’t look back,” says Sandra, who is passionate about the opportunity to continue the family’s farming tradition – often with her 3 1/2-year-old daughter in tow.

“I really love the animals and being outside and being able to provide something I feel good about,” she says.

Fast-forward five years and the herd has expanded to a total of about 43.

During the spring and summer, the water buffalo are on a grass pasture, while in winter they enjoy a

chocolate mousse INGREDIENTS

6 servings

4 large eggs (4 whites, 3 yolks) 60 ml (Âź cup) sugar 200 g (7 oz) dark chocolate made from 70% cocoa 10 ml (2 tsp) unsalted butter 80 ml (â…“ cup) Olympic Krema vanilla yogurt

preparation

15 minutes

Separate the egg whites from the yolks (keep 3 yolks). In a bowl, use a mixer to beat the egg whites until it holds soft peaks, then gradually add the sugar until firm. Set aside.

Melt the chocolate in a double boiler or in a microwave. Once softened, add the butter and then fold in the 3 yolks. Add the yogurt and mix until consistent.

Let it sit to cool off. Do not overwhip or the mousse maybe grainy. Gradually fold the meringue into the chocolate preparation, delicately aerating the mixture with a spatula.

Once consistent, pour the mousse into individual cups and chill until ready to serve.

Visit www.olympicdairy.com for more recipe ideas

Did you know?

Water buffalo can live up to 25 years and both the males and females have horns.

Their milk is pure white, mild tasting, high in milk fat (the McClintocks’ herd is about 7.5%), protein and calcium but lower in cholesterol than cow’s milk. It’s also more easily digested and makes excellent yogurt and cheese.

In fact, pasture-based water buffalo yogurt contains 58 per cent more calcium that cow’s milk yogurt, 40 per cent more protein and 43 per cent less cholesterol.

mixture of grass silage and non-GMO corn silage. During winter, the buffalo are housed in a loose, sawdust pack barn, allowing them to rest comfortably and lie down together.

“We group them in small, social groupings as they form strong bonds with their herd mates and mixing unfamiliar animals is very stressful. They prefer to sleep huddled together, often with their heads resting on each others’ backs,” the McClintocks say.

“We strongly believe that our animals deserve to be “I really love the animals cared for with kindand being outside and being ness and respect and able to provide something a we strive to provide a healthy, natural, feel good about.” stress-free environ– Sandra McClintock, ment for them.”

McClintock’s Farm Quite distinct from cow’s milk, water buffalo milk is higher in fat content, but lower in cholesterol. It’s also higher in calcium and many people who can’t tolerate cow’s milk can enjoy water buffalo milk, Sandra says.

Much of their milk goes to the Comox Valley’s Natural Pastures cheese company, which produces a variety of award-winning cheeses, including the Buffalo paneer, named best Canadian Buffalo Cheese in 2014. Other varieties include a Bocconcini di Bufala, a Mozzarella di

Beehive

Dry Cleaners Same Day Service

111-2244 Sooke Road

250.474.1122

Water buffalo are naturally inquisitive and friendly.

Put Your Bufala and a Buffalo Brie.

In addition, the McClintocks water buffalo milk on a Homesellin small scale, direct from the farm.

Water Buffalo YogurtOur Finding they had more milk than what was needed for the cheese, the McClintocks turned to one of today’s most Hands popular products: yogurt.

Made from 100-per-cent natural milk, the naturally thick yogurt contains only two ingredients: water buffalo milk and active bacterial culture.

While similar in its thickness to a Greek yogurt, it has a milder – less tangy – flavour, Sandra says. For now, they’re pleased to offer a natural version and let customers add the extras they like.

“The people who try it, love it,” Sandra says.

Put Your Home in Put Your Our Home in Hands Our Hands

OUR TEAM TAKES CARE OF ALL YOUR RENOVATION NEEDS

Call Tita 250-391-8484 Call 250-391-8484 for a free Rental Analysis250.812.3942 watersedgerenovations.com for a free Rental Analysis

6 » Friends&Family » Winter 2015 | countrygrocer.com

FOR THE GOOD STUFF

Start Smooth. Finish Strong.

Kick your cravings up a notch with a simple morning or snacking combination.

+ 1 english

muffin with almond butter

+ 1 banana

Share your combinations at: #iogo

+ 1 bowl

of oatmeal

+ Blend together

orange juice, s, frozen blueberrie d an , na one bana a touch of honey

+ blueberries

#iogocanada

Quantities vary according to individual needs.

ON THE GOODNESS

FRUIT PURE E & YOGUR T

No spoon. No bowl. All go.

A real fruit puree and yogurt mix in a convenient pouch with a resealable twist cap.

Friends&Family Âť Winter 2015 | countrygrocer.com Âť 7

Indulgences Sensational Snacks

Savoury Stuffings

Indulge in something savoury with Larosa’s cheesestuffed treats in the deli cooler. From feta-stuffed jalapeño peppers to olives stuffed with either feta or provolone, these are the perfect addition to your entertaining table.

G.H. Cretors has become a snacker favourite and this fall, three brand-new flavours are capturing popcorn lovers’ attention. Orchard apple and pumpkin spice have quickly gained local following (building on the cheddar and caramel flavours already released), with chocolate drizzle coming to store shelves later in the fall. And if you’re saving your calories for another indulgence, opt for the healthier – and still tasty – sea salt and olive oil.

Just Say Cheese

The United Kingdom knows cheese, and we were quickly tempted by these colourfully designed products from Snowdonia. With varieties like Black Bomber (extra old cheddar), Red Devil (chillies and crushed red peppers), Green Thunder (garlic and herbs) and Beechwood (smoked cheddar), you know it’s going to taste as good as it looks!

8 » Friends&Family » Winter 2015 | countrygrocer.com

WHAT’S IN STORE

Bean there, tasted that Got a snack craving? Reach for a package of “The Good Bean,” roasted whole chick peas in several taste-tempting varieties, including Smoky Chili Lime and Sweet Cinnamon.

Vegan, gluten-free, nut-free, Kosher and non-GMO snacking never tasted so good. Oh, yeah, and they have as much protein as almonds, as much fiber as two cups of broccoli and as much folate as three cups of spinach!

Fresh face

Soup’s on

Winter can be tough on your skin. Put your best face forward with the new Derma-e natural skincare line in Country Grocer’s nutrition aisle – it’s like a cleanse for your skin. Products include the purifying gel cleanser, mask and scrub, with natural ingredients like actuated charcoal, marine algae and green tea.

Home-made soup is a winter staple, but sometimes time just isn’t on your side. Enter Campbell’s new line of Soup Kits, with all the basics you need to make a delicious pot of warming soup ... you just need to add a few ingredients, like broth, fresh veggies or meat, depending on the variety. Try Hearty Beef and Barley, Spiced Vegetable Medley and Orzo, Spicy Chicken Tortilla and Thai Chicken and Rice. Yum!

High Speed Internet Free Continental Breakfast Whirlpool and Sauna Pet Friendly . Kitchenettes Available Fridge and Microwave Your Lakeside Resort in the City!

4700 N.Island Hwy (19A) | Nanaimo, BC | 1.800.565.1144 • 250.758.1144 INNONLONGLAKE.COM

Friends&Family » Winter 2015 | countrygrocer.com » 9

Bruce and Carol Dirom

The buoys from Port Hardy JENNIFER BLYTH Founded in 1994 by Bruce and Carol Dirom as a hobby, a way for Bruce to supplement his young family’s income, Hardy Buoys Smoked Fish has become one of Port Hardy’s largest employers.

An avid sports fisherman, Bruce recognized a need for a fish storage facility for the many visitors who descended upon Port Hardy each summer. Starting with a tiny, 3,000-sqfoot building, a small freezer and an even smaller walk-in cooler, a smoke house followed that allowed tourists to take more fish home across the border (there was no limits on smoked and canned fish at the time).

Joined in the business by his brother John, Hardy Buoys Smoked Fish was born, and on June 4, 1994, with a workforce of one additional employee besides Bruce’s wife, Carol, they opened their doors to a receptive sports fishing community.

Their timing was definitely right.

“We came on the scene right at the same time there was the push to buy B.C. and buy local,” Carol says, noting part of that move-

10 » Friends&Family » Winter 2015 | countrygrocer.com

ment was also about choosing quality products with quality ingredients.

“We’re as close to traditional smoking methods as we can come to,” Carol says noting her own personal favourite Hardy Buoys product is “anything candied, hands-down.”

The Dirom family

Independent Retirement Living with Supportive Services Penthous

When people began inquiring how they too could get Hardy Buoys smoked salmon, without fish of their own to have custom smoked, Bruce began buying commercially caught salmon and smoking it for sale out of his tiny location.

By September that year, Bruce decided to take his smoked salmon into the greater community and by year two, what had started out as a seasonal business was now year-round, supplying product for wholesale.

Today, Hardy Buoys operates out of 27,000 sq. feet, with another 50,000 sq. feet of warehouse space, and about 75 staff. Their products are found in major grocery stores across Canada and their facility is federally licensed, Kosher and HACCP-approved.

“We are very hands-on,” Carol says. While the business is always changing, “we always try to stay true to our core of what our business is, but you always have to adapt. We’re always trying new things – we’re not afraid to try something new.”

Carol credits the North Island community with much of “W their success.

Encouraged by other local businesses, “that sense of family and everybody pulling together really got us through the early years,” she says, – Carol Dirom, noting that when Hardy Buoys they hear of others thinking of launching a new businesses today, they show that same support. “Any of the businesses of the North Island community understand the challenges you face starting a business (here).”

When Hardy Buoys joined the Country Grocer team, it was two Island-grown family companies coming together.

“We visited every single Country Grocer when the product was launched and everyone was very welcoming. It’s about family and all the staff were very friendly,” Carol says.

“It’s a good fit.”

e always try to stay true to our core of what our business is, but you always have to adapt.

We’re not afraid to try something new.”

e available December 1

• Bright & spacious • 1 & 2 bed suites (800-1115 sq ft) • 2 blocks from the Inner Harbour in James Bay • Great service package & more • Affordable • Quiet Neighbourhood • Security • Companionship

The Camelot 455 Kingston Street

Licensed Strata Property Manager Visit all of our home at www.novapacific.ca

Getting another chance …

Bring this ad into the Wildlife Centre when you visit, and the second guest admission is FREE

The

455 Kingston Street, Victoria, BC Call today for a personalIndependent tour 250-384-3336 Retirement Living wit

WILD ADOPTIONLIFE S MAKE GREAT Support Yo GIFTS! u NIWRA Rer Favorite si Visit us fo dent.

Informatio r more no www.niwra r go to .org

Call today for a personal tou

NIWRC is a park like setting nestled in the district of Errington on Vancouver Island where our wildlife patients are cared for.

Visitors will see eagles, owls, black bear and much more.

“It’s truly a Wildlife Experience for the Whole Family”.

Viewing open daily March 10th thru December 19th

North Island Wildlife Recovery Centre

1240 Leffler Road, Errington, BC 250-248-8534 www.niwra.org

Friends&Family » Winter 2015 | countrygrocer.com » 11

Gregg Eligh photos

RECIPES from Chef Michael This is a play on the ol’ peanut butter and jam sandwich.

Using almond butter, a more nutritious option than peanut butter, fresh or frozen raspberries and just a touch of agave syrup for sweetness, it’s both very tasty and very good for you!

Ingredients: 1 cup raspberries (frozen or fresh) ¼ cup almond butter 2-4 Tbsp honey (depending on your sweet tooth) ½ cup plain yogurt 1 cup milk (cow, rice, almond or soy)

Nut Butter and Jam Smoothie Servings: 1 Preparation Time: 5 minutes Cooking Time: n/a

Method: Combine all ingredients in a blender and puree until smooth. Enjoy!

Variations: Peanut butter is of course a fine substitution for the almond butter…just make sure you use the all-natural peanut butter and not the other stuff!

Ingredients: 1 small pork butt roast (about 1kg) 1 Tbsp sesame oil 2 cloves garlic, minced ¼ of a red onion, diced small ¼ cup Chinese rice wine 2 Tbsp tamari 1 Tbsp honey

Chinese BBQ Pork – Char Siu Servings: 6 - 8 Preparation Time: 30 minutes + 24 hours marinating Cooking Time: 90 minutes You know that bright red meat you see hanging in the windows in Chinatown? Well this is my version with the food colouring removed and all the amazing flavour left in. This multi-step recipe is simple, but takes time. If you have the patience, you will be rewarded with tender, flavourful, sweet and delicious meat!

Method: 1. Slicing the roast into one-inch slices and then into one-inch strips. Place in a large ziplock bag.

2. Preheat a small pot on medium heat. Add the sesame oil and then the garlic and onion. Sweat until the onions are starting to go translucent.

3. Add the wine, tamari, honey, hoisin, five-spice and salt and simmer for two minutes. Remove marinade from the heat and cool completely.

4. Place cooled marinade in the bag with the pork and marinate in the fridge for about 24 hours.

5. Place the onion rings in a single layer all over a baking tray. These will act as a grill helping the pork to cook evenly while roasting.

6. Remove the pork from the marinade and place the strips on the onion rings and then into a preheated 375° F oven. Bake for 40 minutes then remove from the oven.

7. While the pork is roasting, combine the honey, molasses and marinade in a small pot and simmer for four minutes. Set aside to cool.

8. Now carefully place the rack on the second from the top and set your oven to broil.

9. Brush the pork with the glaze and place under the broiler until nicely caramelized.

10. Flip each piece and repeat.

11. Enjoy the char siu with the onions and some rice Ingredients: 1 400 g tub Paradise Island ricotta cheese 1 Tbsp butter ½ onion, diced very fine 2 or 3 cloves garlic, minced 1 Tbsp fresh rosemary, chopped fine

Ricotta Stuffed Eggplant Roll Servings: 6 Preparation Time: 20 minutes Cooking Time: 20 minutes This is a very easy dish that tastes wonderful and looks beautiful. It works as a lovely appetizer or you can serve it as a side dish with a main course. It also tastes delicious as leftovers, so fear not if you have some not spoken for.

2 Tbsp hoisin 1 heaping tsp Chinese five-spice 1 heaping tsp sea salt 2 yellow onion, sliced into half- inch rings For the glaze: ¼ cup honey 1 Tbsp molasses 2 Tbsp reserved marinade

1 ½ tsp ½ tsp 1 400 ml ½ cup

egg yolk salt paprika eggplant tomato sauce grated parmesano reggiano

Method: 1. Start by adding the ricotta to a small mixing bowl.

2. Preheat a small frypan on medium heat then add the butter and the onions. Sauté until the onions become translucent.

3. Add the garlic and rosemary and sauté for another minute or two.

4. Transfer the sautéed veggies to the bowl with the ricotta, then add the egg yolk, salt and paprika.

Give a good stir.

5. With a large, sharp knife, cut the eggplant into thin ‘sheets’ lengthwise. Try to get them as thin as you can while still giving them enough structure to hold together.

6. Now you need to soften them up a little. I do this either by flashing a few at a time in a frying pan with a touch of oil or by placing them on a baking sheet, brushing with oil and placing under the broiler of my oven for a few minutes. This is to soften the eggplant so it rolls easier.

7. Now, lay your softened eggplant on a clean work surface and place a spoonful or two of the ricotta mixture across each sheet the narrow way and then roll.

8. Add enough tomato sauce to a roasting pan or casserole dish so it will come half way up your eggplant rolls.

9. Place the rolls in the tomato sauce and optionally top with the parmesan cheese and/or bread crumbs.

10. Bake in a preheated 375° F oven until the parmesan cheese is lightly browned.

11. Garnish with fresh chopped herbs and serve warm.

12 » Friends&Family » Winter 2015 | countrygrocer.com

CHEF MICHAEL WILLIAMS

Savour these tempting winter salads As we are now past the veggie-abundant seasons of summer and fall, fresh and local produce has become hard to find.

As a result, you will find me cooking with different veggies…shifting with the seasons. I check my labels and try to keep my produce coming from California or north…the farther north the better, naturally.

This has a large impact on how I approach salad. In the spring and summer you’ll find me constructing salads from zucchini, cucumbers, tomatoes, romaine, red and green leaf lettuce and much more. As the weather gets colder, those warm-crop veggies need to take farther and farther plane rides to get here, yet they remain on your grocer’s shelf.

As convenient as it is being able to buy everything year round, the problem I find is that they often dip in quality and go up in price, let alone the negative carbon footprint.

So instead, I shift my energy to a different animal: the winter salad.

I build my salads in the winter with cooked winter squash, yams, beets, carrots, kale, cabbage, caramelized onions, cooked grains, nuts and seeds. All of these items can be found from closer to home and purchased in bulk and stored for some time if you have a dry, dark and cool room.

The best part about winter salads… they do not wilt after 10 minutes like a leafy salad does. In fact, I often make bigger batches of what I call winter salads and eat them for days to come, which makes it easy to get lots of veggies

into the diet.

So let’s make a winter salad, shall we?

Without getting complicated we could do something as simple as peeling carrots and cutting them into 1-inch sized chunks. Next, toss the carrots with a little olive oil, salt and coriander and then roast in a 350° F oven for 20 minutes.

Once cooled, drizzle a little apple cider vinegar and toss with finely sliced green onion. As simple as that is, it is delicious!

Another option…boil some beets, cool and then cube into bite-sized pieces.

Preheat a fry pan on medium and sauté some diced onion in coconut oil, add a little ginger and then the beets. Sauté for another few minutes, season with salt and pepper and finish with coconut vinegar (or another vinegar).

Enjoy either of these salads warm or cold, which brings me to a good point… salads like these are equally delicious served warm right from the pan/oven, or cold the next day as part of a packed lunch. I love cooking once and then getting to eat several times as a result.

If you would like to look up some recipes on countrygrocer.com, let me suggest Millet Butternut Squash Salad, Indian Carrot Salad, Marinated Beet and Carrot Salad, or if you are into slaws, check out my standard Coleslaw or for something different, look up Kale Slaw.

Otherwise you can concoct your own salads and use some of my delicious dressing ideas such as Maple Soy Vinaigrette, Caramelized Shallot and Fennel Vinaigrette, Jalapeño Cilantro and Peanut Vinaigrette or many others.

When you have a great salad dressing,

great salads are easy to obtain and just because it is the middle of the winter, it does not mean that you need to suffer.

Stay healthy and active through the winter while fuelling with lots of veggies and your body will thank you!

Happy cooking!

See Chef Michael in action: • Dec. 2 – Fresh And Healthy Mediterranean Class, in Victoria at Cook Culture, cookculture.com • Dec. 3 – Help Fill a Dream fundraising barbecue at the Esquimalt Country Grocer.

• Jan. 14, Feb. 15 – Winter Salads and Braised Meats Class, in Victoria at Cook Culture, cookculture.com • Jan. 21, Feb. 18, March 14 – Fresh And Healthy Mediterranean Class, in Victoria at Cook Culture, cookculture.com • Jan. 28 , Feb. 25, March 17 – Fresh and Healthy Chinese Class, in Victoria at Cook Culture, cookculture.com

Friends&Family » Winter 2015 | countrygrocer.com » 13

Go purple with pansies!

Initiative supports Vancouver Island people living with epilepsy JENNIFER BLYTH Few things say spring like the cheerful faces of purple pansies, and this March, those same pansies will help put a smile on the faces of Islanders living with epilepsy.

Country Grocer stores throughout Vancouver Island and Salt Spring Island are joining with the non-profit organization HeadWay in the Epilepsy Awareness Month initiative.

“HeadWay Victoria Epilepsy and Parkinson’s Centre provides programs and services for people living with these health conditions,” says Lynn Fanelli, HeadWay Development Coordinator. “We run completely off donations and we have for more than 30 years.”

Epilepsy, a neurological disorder characterized by the tendency to have recurrent seizures, is a common medical condition. It’s estimated that one out of 10 people in this region will have a seizure in their lifetime,

and about 1 in 100 Canadians have epilepsy. While epilepsy can affect anyone, it tends to be more common in children and the elderly.

In about 70 per cent of cases, there’s no known cause. In others, things like a head injury, lack of oxygen during birth, stroke, brain tumors, genetic conditions (such as tuberous sclerosis) and infections like meningitis or encephalitis play a role.

During Epilepsy Awareness Month, from March 13 to 26, for every purchase of a 4” pansy – grown for Country Grocer by the local Hilltop Greenhouses – 50 cents will go to support of HeadWay, to support individuals with epilepsy.

Pansies will be available at all six Country Grocer locations on Vancouver Island as well as the Salt Spring Island location.

HeadWay’s current membership numbers about 400, however the or-

ganization assists many more people generally through its website and community information.

Key is erasing the stigma a diagnosis carries, largely due to lack of awareness. In addition to offering programs and services to people affected by seizure disorders and epilepsy, HeadWay also works with schools and employers to reduce misconceptions that still surround epilepsy.

At the centre of the awarenessraising campaign is International Purple Day March 26. The recognized day of epilepsy awareness and support started right here in Canada with Cassidy Megan, who at nine years old approached her local epilepsy association in Nova Scotia with the idea of creating a space to talk about what it is like to have seizures. Five years later, people in Canada and around the world show their support by wearing purple.

Did you know?

• Epilepsy is a physical condition that is diagnosed when an individual has two or more seizures. The brain is responsible for everything we do, from executing motor functions, to our emotions, thoughts and feelings.

Different areas of the brain are responsible for different functions, possible thanks to chemical electricity carried along the brain’s many pathways. Seizures are brief, uncontrolled surges of electrical activity in the brain. They can affect how a person senses, feels or behaves but the ways in which a seizure manifests depends on how much of the brain – and which part(s) – is involved.

• 1 in 100 people is diagnosed with epilepsy.

That makes epilepsy almost as common as migraine headaches.

What should you do if someone has a seizure?

Stay calm and protect the person from injury. If someone is having a convulsive seizure, put something soft underneath their head, loosen anything tight around the neck, move objects out of their way, and gently roll the person onto their side. Never restrain anyone during a seizure. If someone is having a seizure that involves a dazed state and/or purposeless movements, stay with the person, move objects out of their way, and guide them away from danger. Afterwards, talk gently to comfort and reassure the person.

14 » Friends&Family » Winter 2015 | countrygrocer.com

Don’t miss: The Country Grocer Purple Pansy sale will be launched at the first annual HeadWay Health Fair, from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. Feb. 27 at the Mary Winspear Centre in Sidney. Featuring a showcase of helpful fitness, health and wellness information, the fair will offer useful tips and practices about many neurological health conditions. Find health service presentations by local nonprofit societies, informative, educational speakers, more than 60 exhibitors, door prizes and more.

KING A M

more

every day

delicious

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

I’m so happy I decided to make Shannon Oaks my home.

Everyone here has become family.

BY THE NUMBERS

1to2 Diameter in inches of Canada No. 1 Brussels sprout

www.shannonoaks.com www.shannonoaks.com

Baptist Housing | Enhanced Seniors Living | Since 1964

Baptist Housing Enhanced Seniors Living, Since 1964

Shannon Oaks is an all-inclusive premier independent living retirement home with locations in beautiful South Vancouver and Victoria’s prestigous Oak Bay.

Call us for your personal tour and stay for a complimentary lunch.

604 324 6257 250 595 6257

VANCOUVER VICTORIA

Call us for your personal tour and stay for a complimentary lunch.

VANCOUVER 604 324 6257 • VICTORIA 250 595 6257 2000 Goldsmith Street Shannon Oaks is an all-inclusive premier independent living retirement home with locations in beautiful South Vancouver & Victoria’s Oak Bay.

– Source: Canada Food Inspection Agency, www.inspection.gc.ca

50

Cocoa beans that can be found in one cocoa pod.

– Source: Purdy’s, www.purdys.com

1814

Year first pansy hybrids with dark central blotches appeared.

– Source: Burpee, www.burpee.com

CHRISTIE-PHOENIX INSURANCE

Christie-Phoenix (Victoria) Ltd. 101-4430 W Saanich Rd, Victoria T 250-386-1454 F 250-386-0604 www.christiephoenix.com

16 » Friends&Family » Winter 2015 | countrygrocer.com

1/2

Cup serving size of yam or sweet potato

– Source: Health Canada, www.hc-sc.gc.ca

1500+

Varieties of tea in the world, in three main varieties: green, black and oolong.

– Source: Tea Association of Canada, www.tea.ca

able l i a v a W O N ns at 3 locatiosville k Sidney, Parria! & Victo

MICHELIN® TM PREMIER A/S TIRE

Even when worn, the MICHELIN® PremierTM A/S tire still stops shorter on wet roads than leading competitor’s brand-new tires.

WWW.SIDNEYTIRE.COM

VICTORIA 250-386-6367

SIDNEY 250-656-5544

PARKSVILLE 250-248-2055

Earth’s Option Cremation and Burial Services

All arrangements made in the comfort of your own home. All pre-arrangements are fully transferable at no cost to you. Specializing in low cost cremation and green burial.

For more information visit our website or call:

778.440.8500

www.earthsoption.com 5 – 831 Devonshire Rd., Victoria V9A 4T5

Approved Provider

EFFORT = CONCRETE RESULTS Locally Owned and Operated

Ready-Mixed Concrete Concrete Accessories Victoria’s Only Liquid Colouring System Gravity Wall Blocks Gravel Mart OPEN MONDAY-SATURDAY 765 Industrial Way • 250-478-0555 • www.iconcrete.ca

AllAllthethebest in the best in the Holiday Holiday Season Season

SCOTTYTREE SCOTTYTREE & Arborist Service & Arborist Service 250-220-9298 250-220-9298 www.scottytree.com www.scottytree.com

Fair Prices • Locally familyowned owned Fair Prices • Locally family • Hazard Tree Evaluation & Removal • Pruning • Lot Clearing • Municipal Reports Rep

• Hazard Tree Evaluation & Removal • Pruning • Lot Clearing • Municipal Reports Rep • Consultations • Timber Sales • Hedges • Stump Grinding • Chipping • Consultations • Timber Sales • Hedges • Stump Grinding • Chipping

18 » Friends&Family » Winter 2015 | countrygrocer.com

Country Grocer earns Philanthropy Day honours Country Grocer has been recognized for its significant service to the Island community with a Corporate Citizenship Award, presented during National Philanthropy Day events at the Fairmont Empress Hotel in November.

The awards recognize outstanding individuals and organizations in the community that are making a difference in the lives of others – “changing the world with a giving heart.”

“It was an honour to be nominated by Lifetime Networks and the Island Prostate Centre and then to be recognized for giving back to our community,” said Peter Cavin, Director, Country Grocer. “It was a great feeling for us being part of the evening where there were so many people doing such great work to help those who are in need.”

The award recognized our significant contribution through its support and sponsorship of many organizations, including Lifetime Networks, The Prostate Centre, The MS Society; Our Place Society; the school WITS program; Canadian Breast Cancer Foundation; Tour de Rock; Help Fill a Dream Foundation; BC Summer Games; Boys and Girls Clubs; Heart and Stroke Foundation; and Cycle of Life tour for Hospice, not to mention sports teams like the Shamrocks and Timbermen and countless youth sports on Vancouver Islands and the Gulf Islands.

The company’s newest venture is the food reclamation program where food banks on the Island pick up all Country Grocer’s “ugly” fruits and veggies daily for their kitchen.

Nominated for the award by Lifetime Networks and The Prostate Centre, since 2004 Country Grocer has contributed more than $25,000 in support of Lifetime Networks’ mission to provide lasting friendships and support for people with developmental disabilities.

The company first partnered with The Prostate Centre on the annual Fathers Day “Do it for Dad” event in 2009 and later became the title sponsor of the annual Men’s Health Day. Over the past five years they have contributed more than $40,000, which is saving the lives of men in the community, awards organizers noted.

“In the past three years, Country Grocer has donated over $1,000,000, touching the lives of thousands of people living in our communities – reducing hunger, promoting healthy eating, reducing homelessness, reducing poverty, increasing cancer survival, supporting recreation, and helping create better lives for people with disabilities. Whether it’s through direct cash donation, selling trees or paper shirts, or running barbecues, Country Grocer finds ways to make a difference in our community.”

Look for the Label

SUPPORT SUPPORT

LOCAL

• get the freshest products • support local businesses • create jobs in your community • minimize the environmental impact of your food for • Look learn more about your foodLabel comes from Look forwherethe the Label

Look for the Label

• • • • • • • • • • •

get the freshest products get the freshest products get the freshest products support local businesses support local businesses support local create jobs in businesses your communityLocalize calculates how create jobs in your community create jobs your community minimize theinenvironmental impact of your food local a product is to you: minimize the environmental impact of your food minimize the environmental impact of your food learn more about where your food comes from learn more about where your food comes from learn more about where your food comes from 4.5 points Localize calculates how Localize calculates Production how local a product is tohow you: Localize calculates Location is to you: local a product local a product is to you: 4.5 points Production 4.5 points Location Production 4.5 points Location Production Location

2.0 points Ingredient 2.0 points Ingredient 2.0 points Origins Origins Ingredient 2.0 points Origins Ingredient Origins

+Bonus Points +Bonus Points for Sustainability +Bonus Points for Sustainability for Sustainability

+Bonus Points for Sustainability learn more about Localize at localizeyourfood.com learn more about Localize at localizeyourfood.com

3.5 points Ownership 3.5 points Location Ownership 3.5 points Location Ownership 3.5 points Location Ownership Location

/10

/10 /10 points /10 points points points

Let’s Talk Turkey JENNIFER BLYTH The turning of the calendar toward fall brings more than coloured leaves and cooler nights... it also means the time culinary thoughts turn to turkey.

Because raw poultry can be affected by Salmonella or Campylobacter bacteria it’s essential to follow safe preparation and cooking techniques, beginning with shopping for and getting your turkey home.

Health Canada advises buying cold or frozen food at the end of your shopping trip, being sure to check the “best before” date.

Ensure raw poultry is securely packaged so its juices are contained, then place the poultry in a separate plastic bag at the bottom of the cart to prevent it, or its juices, from contacting other items in the grocery cart.

If you use reusable grocery bags or bins, use a specific one for raw poultry and wash your reusable grocery bags frequently, especially after carrying raw poultry.

Once home, it’s essential to keep raw poultry cold as bacteria grow rapidly at room temperature. Place

Timely tip Wondering how big a turkey you need? For four adults and two children, the Turkey Farmers of Canada estimates a 3.4 kilogram bird will give you enough for a few leftovers. Take the guest list up to six adults and four children and you’re looking for about a 5.4-kg bird. See www.tastyturkey.ca for more handy calculators, including your thawing and cooking times.

20 » Friends&Family » Winter 2015 | countrygrocer.com

poultry in a clean container or a plastic bag that will hold any leaking raw juices and refrigerate or freeze your poultry immediately, ensuring your refrigerator is set at 4°C or lower and your freezer at -18°C or lower.

Cook fresh poultry within no more than two to three days after purchasing, or freeze it, Health Canada advises, reminding home cooks that the safest way to thaw frozen chicken or turkey is in the refrigerator.

“Always defrost food in the refrigerator, in cold water or in the microwave – never at room temperature. Thawing your poultry at room temperature can allow bacteria to grow.”

To thaw, place turkey breast-side-up in a clean container or on platter that will hold any raw juices that may leak out.

Place the container on the bottom shelf of the refrigerator to prevent contaminating other foods in the refrigerator and defrost for 24 hours for each 2.5kg. Cook poultry immediately after it has thawed.

Because getting poultry ready for the oven, pan or grill can spread bacteria to other foods, surfaces or people, special care is needed, beginning with always washing your hands

with soap and warm water both before and after touching raw poultry.

In preparing the bird, never rinse it before cooking as the bacteria can spread everywhere the water splashes, creating more of a safety hazard.

Use a separate cutting board for raw poultry than that used for produce, and if you’ve used a plate or utensils to handle raw food, don’t use them again until you’ve washed them thoroughly in the dishwasher or in warm, soapy water.

Use paper towels to wipe kitchen surfaces, or launder dishcloths daily to avoid the risk of cross-contamination and the spread of bacteria. Avoid sponges, which are harder to keep bacteria-free. Remember to sanitize countertops, cutting boards and utensils before and after preparing food. Use a kitchen sanitizer (following the directions on the container) or a bleach solution (5 ml household bleach to 750 ml of water), and rinse with water.

When cooking, use a meat thermometer to ensure the temperature of the thickest part of the breast or thigh is 82°C and pieces of poultry reach 74°C (remembering to sanitize it before re-checking the bird).

After dinner, cut and debone the meat from large cooked birds, divide leftovers separately into shallow containers so they cool quickly, and refrigerate or freeze all poultry leftovers within two hours to minimize the chance of bacteria growing. Avoid overstocking the refrigerator, so that cool air can circulate effectively. Use refrigerated leftovers as soon as possible, ideally within two to four days, and when reheating food, make sure it’s cooked to a temperature of 74°C. For more information, see healthycanadians.gc.ca

Carve Like a Pro So your beauty bird is cooked to perfection, the sides are prepped and waiting to serve and all that’s left is to carve.

For tips on handling this sometimes daunting task, we turned to the experts at the Turkey Farmers of Canada: The Drumstick and Thigh – Remove the drumstick and thigh by pressing the leg away from the body of the bird. The joint connecting the leg to the backbone will often snap free, or may be severed easily with a knife point. Cut the dark meat completely from the body by following the body contour carefully with the knife.

Place the drumstick and thigh on a separate plate and cut through the connecting joint. Both pieces may be individually sliced. Tilt the drumstick to a convenient angle, slicing towards the plate.

For the thigh, hold firmly onto the plate with a fork.

Cut even slices parallel to the bone.

Preparing the Breast – Place the knife parallel and as close to the wing as possible. Make a deep cut into the breast, cutting right to the bone. This is your base cut.

All breast slices stop at this horizontal cut.

Carve downward, ending at the base cut. Start each new slice slightly higher up on the breast. Keep slices thin and even.

AERO Furnace, Duct & Chimney Cleaning One per customer. May not be combined with any other offer or promotion.

Expires January 31, 2016.

FURNACE & DUCT CLEANING

260*

$ only

*per furnace

NO pER VENT Charges Ever

for the furnace duct cleaning!

CHIMNEY SWEEP

120

$

Free safety inspection

CLEAN, FAST SERVICE ANYWHERE IN VICTORIA

250-479-0090 • aeroservices.ca FURNACES AND AIR DUCTS • DRYER VENTS • CHIMNEY FLUES • HEAT RECOVERY SYSTEMS

Friends&Family » Winter 2015 | countrygrocer.com » 21

Entertaining Guests with Food Sensitivities These days, many people have food sensitivities or follow special diets, but for those planning a holiday gathering or family dinner, a little planning can make it easy for everyone to enjoy the festivities.

To ensure that all your guests enjoy a safe and delicious time, reach out to them in advance to learn whether there are any foods that they want or need to avoid, suggest the experts at TheCeliacScene.com, Vancouver Island’s premier source for gluten-free living.

• When creating your menu, keep it simple. Meat, vegetables, fruits and spices are likely to be free of most allergens.

Marinades, seasoning blends and thickeners may include allergens as ingredients.

• Consider thickening sauces and gravies with cornstarch instead of flour. Potato flakes are great for thickening stews and vegetable soups.

• Wash all pans, knives, measuring utensils, containers and cutting boards before – and between – preparing each dish.

• Serve sauces, salad dressings and croutons on the side.

This way, every guest can assemble a meal that suits them

perfectly.

• Keep all ingredients packages handy for reference in case guests inquire about allergens.

• Invite guests to contribute a dish that meets their needs, or if they prefer, arrive with a meal plated from home that you can keep warm or cold and re-heat at meal time.

Allow your guests with food sensitivities to serve themselves first, before food items might be cross-contaminated by shared serving spoons.

Don’t worry about serving dishes that contain allergens. As long as they are clearly identified, and there are ‘safe’ alternatives on hand, you’ll have made your guests feel very welcome.

And of course, be sure to serve plenty of laughter and good cheer!

Helpful Links

countrygrocer.com/services/gluten-free-guide countrygrocer.com/category/gluten-free-recipe countrygrocer.com/services/nutritionist

“ Serving customers on Vancouver Island for 50 years and a proud partner of Country Grocer since 1999.”

22 » Friends&Family » Winter 2015 | countrygrocer.com

MEET THE TEAM

Chase River: Serving south Nanaimo from the heart of the community JENNIFER BLYTH To say Country Grocer’s Chase River store is at the heart of its south Nanaimo community is an understatement.

While they go about their business quietly, and with little attempt at fanfare, there’s a reason locals make the café their regular place for morning coffee and why their carry-out meals like yummy store-made sandwiches and fresh-cut fruit are sought-after lunch solutions.

It’s also why initiatives like their weekend hot dog sales for local non-profit groups are booked more than half a year out.

Under the guiding eye of manager Rick Tyson, who began working with Country Grocer’s Salt Spring store at age 15, the store is home to just shy of 100 full- and part-time staff, says Janice Anderson, Human Resources Manager.

One of the originals in the Country Grocer family, the store opened in 1984 as Food Country. Moving into the new location eight years ago, the new 40,000-square-foot store allowed for all its customers’ favourite departments, from produce and floral to a full-service meat and seafood counter, deli and bakery. Customers appreciate the lighter, brighter store, with wider aisles and more room for their favourite items.

Recent additions include a well-stocked nutrition section where they can chat with the full-time nutritionist, lots of new flavour combinations in the deli and café, including sushi that has quickly proven a go-to choice for many, Janice notes.

Let us take care of your heating needs!

Induction & Fuel Injection Service Out of Province Inspection Diesel Fuel Service Brake Service Oil Service Electrical Exhaust Tires

Ask about B ProtectioG Plan* n

“The café is really popular. We have people who come by every morning for their coffee,” she says.

One of the store’s cashiers, Linda Kitzul, has now expanded her role to community liaison and is thrilled to represent both the Chase River and Bowen Road stores at many local events, including the local Remembrance Day service, the Ladysmith Light-Up parade and at some of the many hot dog sale events the store hosts. “She’s definitely our public face out there,” Janice says.

And taking the lead from their customer requests, the Chase River store has recently doubled the size of its parking, augmented with improved lighting. Open from 7 a.m. to 10 p.m. daily on Twelfth Street, the store also boasts a board room available to non-profit groups.

Big supporters of local youth, the Chase River team supports the Cinnabar school lunch program for example, and welcomes several local sports teams to help bag groceries during busy times, in exchange for a donation to the team.

In November staff hosted a “fill the truck” event for the local Loaves and Fishes Food Bank and this winter, the store is also collecting donations of socks and mittens in memory of Island snowboarder Sam MacLeod, to be distributed to the local homeless community.

“We’re quietly connected in the community; we do these things without a lot of fanfare,” Janice reflects. The family nature of the community-oriented company also means Chase River has many longterm staff. “We have quite a few people who were at the old store and are here now,” she says. “We do get a lot of comments from our customers about how happy our staff seem to be; that’s nice to hear.”

OVER 40 YEARS EXPERIENCE SERVING AUTOMOBILES

RACKSIDE AUTO SERVICE LTD.

A FULL SERVICE AUTO REPAIR FACILITY

784 Fairview Rd. (250) 383-5509 www.tracksideautoservice.ca

Competitive Prices & Cash Discounts Monthly Draws for Free Oil Family owned and Operated

Victoria

Special Discount Pricing for Regular Delivery Customers Local, Friendly Staff Referral program

250-386-3533 Duncan 250-748-6555 Nanaimo 250-741-1922

Give us a call

Friends&Family » Winter 2015 | countrygrocer.com » 23

Pamper yourself with a TIDBITS

Celebrating five years of amaking dreams come true

Pamper yourself with Holiday Getaway Pamper yourself with a mper yourself with a Holiday Getaway

Holiday Holiday GetawayGetaway

$189 Huntingdon Manor $189 Huntingdon Holiday Package Manor Holiday Package

Huntingdon $189 One night’s accommodation Manor in the 9 Huntingdon Manor

One night’s accommodation Huntingdon ManorPackage in the Holiday Huntingdon Manor Holiday Package Deluxe Continental Breakfast for two One night’s accommodation the Deluxe Continental in Breakfast for two e night’s accommodation intwo the Huntingdon Manor Dinner for in the Pendray Restaurant Dinner for two in the Pendray Restaurant ntingdon Manor the Gatsby inDeluxe Continental Breakfast for two in theMansion Gatsby Mansion uxe Continental Breakfast for two Dinner two in the Pendray Restaurant Complimentary Parking for Complimentary Parking

ner for two in the Restaurant inPendray the Gatsby Mansion he Gatsby Mansion To reserve your Holiday Getaway To reserve your Getaway call: call: Complimentary Holiday Parking mplimentary Parking 250-381-3456 or 1-800-663-7557 250-381-3456 or 1-800-663-7557 To reserve your Holiday Getaway call: serve your Holiday Getaway call: 250-381-3456 or 1-800-663-7557 50-381-3456 or 1-800-663-7557

You can once again join Country Grocer in making Island kids’ dreams come true this holiday season.

With every Dream Bouquet sold through Dec. 12, donation at the till or Island-grown Christmas tree, you’ll help fulfill the wishes of children with life-threatening conditions right here on Vancouver Island and Salt Spring. New to the campaign this year is the addition of suppliers such as Duso’s Pasta and Sauce, with 50 cents of each pasta or sauce sold going to the Help Fill a Dream Foundation.

“We are thrilled to say that we have been making Dreams come true for Island children for 30 years thanks to such incredible community partners like Country Grocer,” says Help Fill A Dream Executive Director Craig Smith. “The launch of this year’s campaign represents some very important milestones for both Help Fill A Dream and Country Grocer. We have just launched our 30th anniversary celebrations; this is the fifth year for this campaign with Country Grocer; and this year, the cumulative total of this campaign will exceed $50,000. Each is significant on its own but all together, it is incredible.

“Never underestimate the power of a Dream. It is transformative,” Smith adds. “The power of hope and happiness are important elements in helping a child get better. And Dreams have a

Looking for someone to act for you in your senior years?

• 40 years a lawyer • Compassion & integrity • Preparation of wills, representation agreements, power of attorney and health care agreements • Probate and estate processing including sale of estate goods • Will look after provision for your present health care needs or property management • Financial planning resources

F. Kenneth Walton

Valid from November 27, 2015 to January 4, 2016.

Package is based on double occupancy. Subject to availability.

Taxes, alcoholic beverages and gratuities not included.

Valid from November 27, 2015 to January 4, 2016.

Gatsby Mansion 309 to Belleville Street, Victoria BC d from November 27, 2015 to January 4, 2016.

Package isfrom based on double occupancy.

Subject to 4, availability.

Valid November 27, 2015 January 2016.

Huntingdonmanor.com • info@gatsbymansion.ca based on double occupancy.

Subject to availability.

Taxes, alcoholic beverages and gratuities not included.

Package is based on double occupancy. Subject to availability. alcoholic beverages andalcoholic gratuitiesbeverages not included.

Taxes, and gratuities not included.

Gatsby Mansion 309 Belleville Street, Victoria BC sby Mansion 309 Belleville Street, Victoria BC • info@gatsbymansion.ca Huntingdonmanor.com Gatsby Mansion 309 Belleville Street, Victoria BC tingdonmanor.com • info@gatsbymansion.ca

Huntingdonmanor.com • info@gatsbymansion.ca

24 » Friends&Family » Winter 2015 | countrygrocer.com

Law Corporation

250-595-5368 Victoria BC

• Willing to accept appointment as executor of your will or as an attorney under a power of attorney or representation agreement • Will attend at your home • Will do estate court cases

Call me for a free consultation

250-595-5368

ripple effect – touching not only the child, but all those surrounding them: parents, brothers, sisters, grandparents and other family members; health care and support workers; friends and neighbours; the entire community. Everyone is united in making a child’s Dream come true.”

Money raised by Country Grocer and its customers goes directly to make Dreams come true for Island children like 11-year-old Emma.

Emma has a form of cancer called pineoblastoma. In June 2015, her Dream of a trip to Hawaii to see a volcano, feast at a luau and relax on the beach became a reality.

Help Fill A Dream operates quietly in the background as a resource for families at a time of great need. In addition to making Dreams come true, Help Fill A Dream offers families hope through unique programs such as quality of life and family assistance. Help Fill A Dream seeks to support families so they can concentrate on the health, care and recovery of their child.

Learn more at HelpFillADream.com

Ryan Worsfold, owner Eurosa Farms, Kelly Wilson, Country Grocer owner and floral buyer, Emma Smith, who travelled to Hawaii courtesy of Help Fill A Dream, Denyse Koo, President, Help Fill A Dream and Craig Smith, Executive Director, Help Fill A Dream, show off Eurosa farms’ Dream Bouquets, which will help raise funds for Help Fill A Dream.

Certified Organic Coffee

2

BLACK BURGUNDY - PANTONE 188 RED - PANTONE 186

1.25

DARK GREEN - PANTONE 342 LIGHT GREEN - PANTONE 356 GOLD - 457

LOGO TO MAINTAIN 1.25 X 2 RATIO

IVORY - 0c 1m 10y 0k

Transforming disability into ability.

At Discovery School, learning disabilities are transformed into valuable skills & abilities. Students work at their own pace in small classes, with focused, individualized instruction.

Enrollment is limited. For more information or to arrange a tour, visit www.discoveryschool.ca, call Sherri Ko at 250-595-7765 or email principal@discoveryschool.ca

www.creekmorescoffee.com Friends&Family » Winter 2015 | countrygrocer.com » 25

PETS

Celebrating the season safely with family pets Here on Vancouver Island, pets are an important part of our families, joining in the fun of special celebrations and winter activities. However, what’s good for us isn’t necessarily good for our furry companions, so the BC SPCA offers a few tips to keep in mind this winter.

Bones are Bad: Avoid giving bones to your dogs or cats, particularly turkey bones. Poultry bones easily splinter and can cause serious injury, while bone fragments can cause intestinal blockages or lacerations.

Thoughtful Treats: Chocolate and other sweets should not be given to animals as it contains theobromine, a chemical that can be deadly to cats and dogs, though not harmful to humans. It’s best for your pet over the holidays to keep them on their regular diet. Look for healthy animal treats instead of giving your animal companions snacks or sweets meant for people.

Poisonous Plants: Many popular holiday plants are poisonous to animals, including mistletoe, holly, ornamental pepper and Christmas rose. Keep these plants out of reach of pets – especially birds. Poinsettias are not poisonous to pets or people, although some pets may have a sensitivity to the latex in the plant and may get diarrhea or vomit.

Tinsel is Trouble: Having a Christmas tree and pets can be troublesome.

Ensure the tree is well-secured and try to place the decorations above paw height.

Using string to hang decorations instead of hooks helps, as hooks can be easily dislodged.

If possible, use non-breakable ornaments. Avoid tinsel or angel hair – cats and dogs will ingest both, which can cause intestinal problems. Cords for lights should be made inaccessible to pets, especially chewing puppies and exploring kittens. If you add chemicals to the water reservoir of your Christmas tree to help it last longer, those chemicals are toxic so cover the reservoir.

Toy Watch: Avoid purchasing pet toys with small or soft pieces that can be chewed and swallowed. Nylon bones tend to splinter less than plastic ones. Be sure to inspect pet toys regularly and discard deteriorating ones.

Some cold weather safety tips: Holiday food and accessories aren’t the only challenge to pets this time of year.

Cold weather – even here on usually mild Vancouver Island – can pose a risk.

• Thoroughly clean the pads of your pet’s paws after they’ve walked on sidewalks or roads to remove any coarse salt that can irritate. For your own sidewalk, choose a pet-friendly, non-corrosive deicing compound; • Use pet-safe propylene-based anti-

PROVIDING QUALITY CASTINGS IN ALUMINUM & BRONZE

Industries & Foundry Ltd.

• Bronze Plaques • Pattern Making • Cemetery Markers • Date Plates • Custom and Ornamental Casting • Production and Reproduction Work

103-1017 Dunford Rd, Victoria 250-474-0037 ■ 1-877-474-0037 achinbackfoundry.com

26 » Friends&Family » FALL 2015 | countrygrocer.com

freeze instead of ethylene glycol antifreeze, which is toxic to pets and wildlife.

A mere tablespoon of ethylene glycol antifreeze can kill a cat or small dog; • “Think and Thump” before starting your car. Cats and wildlife gravitate to warm engines during cold weather.

Banging on the hood before getting into your car can avoid a tragic ending for an animal seeking refuge from the cold; • While the SPCA opposes keeping pets permanently outdoors and strongly urges animals be inside during cold weather, if they are outside, ensure they have access to shelter that’s off the ground, provides protection from wind, cold and dampness and is properly insulated. Regular checks to ensure drinking water has not frozen are also a must.

Steps to stay active this winter While Vancouver Island enjoys generally mild year-round temperatures, winter can make it challenging to stay active.

Need a few ideas to stay motivated?

Set small, achievable goals, such as running on the spot during the commercials of your favourite TV show or committing to walking 20 minutes a day, suggests the province. Whatever you choose to do, the sooner you commit to it, the sooner you will feel the benefits.

Create an activity calendar for a month, with daily goals, such as going for a swim or playing a game of tag. If you have kids, ask them to help create the goals.

Keep it simple and just go for a short walk!

It doesn’t have to be outdoors – find a local community centre with a running track, pop into a mall, or walk around your office building with co-workers. Any opportunity to rack up the recommended 10,000 steps a day is a good one.

Heading out of town? Pack your workout

gear and make a point of joining friends at their gym/workout class.

Embrace the cold. Make a day of it or just take an hour. Bundle up and go tobogganing, build a snowman, try snowshoeing or hit the mountains to go skiing.

Involve the kids. Children need between 60 and 180 minutes of physical activity a day, so try joining them for a game in the backyard.

Enjoy a family walk after dinner to check out the holiday decorations in your neighbourhood.

Get the whole family together and have a dance party. Crank the tunes and have fun while you do the dishes.

Use the Internet. While more screen time is not usually associated with active living, you can use it to learn the basics of a new dance, yoga or tai chi to find out if you like it before committing to formal instruction or classes.

Check out your local parks and recreation centre.

They have activities to suit all ages, budgets and schedules – allowing you to be active and meet new people.

Need more ideas? visit www.healthyfamiliesbc.ca

It’s been said, “This is the world’s best hummingbird feeder.”

hummingbird HIGH PERCH™

ESQUIMALT SENIORS

FEEDER

We are pleased to offer the following Non-Medical services for Esquimalt Seniors (65+) • Housekeeping • Transportation • Light Yard Work • Light Repairs & Maintenance • Grocery Shopping Call 250-385-2635 ext. 201 for more information

It’s the new High Perch™ for unobstructed view of the birds.

Now in 4 sizes 4 oz., 8 oz., 12 oz. and 16 oz.

• Lifetime Guarantee • Easy to Clean • Ant-Moat - Blocks • Made in U.S.A. Crawling Insects • Bee and Wasp Resistant 3631 Shelbourne Plaza • 250-595-3595

Friends&Family » Winter 2015 | countrygrocer.com » 27

IN YOUR COMMUNITY COWICHAN VALLEY

BC SHARING

Dec. 5 – Annual Christmas Craft Fair Bring your family and friends to Providence Farm, 1843 Tzouhalem Rd. Enjoy hay rides, photos with Santa, feast on baked goods, buy a tree and shop from local vendors, 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

Info: www.providence.bc.ca Dec.10 and 11 – Concert for a Winter’s Eve Brentwood College’s winter performance of voice and instrument features ensembles and soloists from rock to jazz, classical to contemporary. Something for everyone’s musical taste. Proceeds to the local food bank. T.Gil Bunch Centre for the Arts. Show time is 7:30 p.m.

Dec. 21 – Handel’s Messiah Cowichan Symphony Orchestra, with Vox Humana Choir and Friends with an exquisite performance of the most-performed and loved oratorio, 7:30 p.m. at the Centre for the Performing Arts (Cowichan Theatre) at Island Savings Centre, Duncan. Info: cowichansymphonysociety.ca Tickets: Cowichan Ticket Centre, 250-748-7529.

On-going in all Country Grocer communities – Support local food banks by looking for the BC Sharing donation pads at the till. Simply add $2 to your grocery bill and 100% goes to your local food bank!

LAKE COWICHAN

NANAIMO

Dec. 23 – Winter Wonderland Come out and enjoy the festivities at the annual Winter Wonderland. See the arena transformed into a festive wonderland showcasing a toboggan run, fire on ice, skating, shinny hockey, hot chocolate, and a visit from Santa himself, 6 to 8 p.m. at the Cowichan Lake Sports Arena. Admission: $3 per/ person or $10/per family of four.

Dec. 31 – New Year’s Eve Family Event Bring your family out on New Year’s Eve for a great time at Cowichan Lake Sports Arena. Registration deadline is Dec. 22. Ticket includes family skating, crafts, sports, games, movie, hot chocolate and more, 5 to 8 p.m. Cost: $10 per family.

December through March – Take in the hard-hitting action of the Nanaimo Clippers Junior A hockey club at Frank Crane Arena. For the full schedule and details, see www.nanaimoclippers.com.

Dec. 5, 12 & 19 – Downtown Nanaimo Christmas Trolley Jump on board at two locations at 100 Museum Way, just up from Santa’s Workshop in front of the Nanaimo Museum, and on Wesley Street in the Old City Quarter. The trolley is free of charge, but donations are appreciated. A great way to enjoy the decorated windows and rest your feet while shopping and enjoying an old fashioned holiday experience.

Is Your Stucco Cracked & Dirty?

CHIC® Liquid Vinyl SYSTEM CHIC Liquid Vinyl is not a paint but a revolutionary coating system engineered to provide a beautiful and extremely durable finish that acts like a shield of armour protecting your walls from the elements. With thousands of colours to choose from, CHIC® is proven protection for all kinds of stucco, masonry, wood and composite siding.

• Weatherproof • Repairs Cracks • Low Carbon Footprint • Low Maintenance • Lifetime Warranty

OVER 30 Years in BC

Vancouver Island’s Independent Authorized CHIC Dealer www.coastalhomeimprovement.ca • Residential & Commercial Applications Victoria 250-858-6308 • Nanaimo 250-740-5225

28 » Friends&Family » FALL 2015 | countrygrocer.com

what’s in the

SALT SPRING Dec.12 and 19 – Christmas Market in the Park Vendors set up in Centennial Park from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m.

Dec. 17 – Artspring’s annual Christmas Sing-along Sing the songs of the season at this free community event, 7:30 to 9 p.m. at the ArtSpring Theatre, 100 Jackson Ave. Remember to bring a nonperishable food item for the food bank. Info: www.artspring.ca

BAG

Carolyn’s List

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

Carolyn Hoekstra

As the parents of two active teenage boys, Carolyn and husband Eric often have a lengthy shopping list when visiting the Royal Oak Country Grocer.

Heading into winter, here’s what at the top of Carolyn’s list.

Feb. 9 – Michael Kaeshammer The triple-threat combo of piano virtuosity, vocal ability and charisma performs at the ArtSpring Theatre, 7:30 p.m. The highly trained technician, writer and incendiary piano player is a consummate host on stage and his return to ArtSpring is sure to wow you. Info: www. artspring.cam

1. Imperial Cheese 2. Texas Donuts 3. Butter horns 4. Pepper oni 5. Cad bur y Fruit and Nut Bar 6. Fresh Hoagie Buns 7. Car rots 8. Moose Tracks Ice Cream 9. Go ldfish crackers 10. Lilydale frozen chicken breasts

VICTORIA Dec. 6 – Esquimalt’s Celebration of Light Celebrate the season with this community holiday event featuring a parade of lights down Esquimalt Road to the Plaza and an after-parade party full of free music, hot dogs and hot chocolate (by donation). Santa usually stops by too! Parade starts at 6 p.m.

To Dec. 26 – Esquimalt’s Live (Potted) Christmas Tree Village Walk the halls of the Archie Browning Sports Centre and Esquimalt Recreation Centre and vote for your favourite Christmas tree, decorated by local businesses and community groups.

Dec. 27, Jan. 31 and Feb. 28 – Township Classics at the English Inn Township Classics is proud to bring you the second season of passionate performances at the English Inn on the last Sunday of the month to Feb. 28.

Doors at 6:30 p.m.; Concert 7 p.m. at the English Inn, 429 Lampson St. Enjoy Mozart on Dec. 27, Night of Spanish Music on Jan 31 and Schubertiade on Feb. 28. Proceeds support the TCAC Music Mentorship Fund. Tickets in advance from the English Inn. ($20 minimum donation or $15 for TCAC members). Info: www.townshiparts.org

Jan. 10 – Esquimalt Recreation Open House Take in program demos, a recreation marketplace, pancake breakfast, prizes and more at this popular annual event. Info: www. esquimalt.ca

We install window screens, doors & replace broken sealed units.

PNR Screens Ltd.

Featuring

Proud Member

6680 Mirah Road Saanichton 250-652-4612

Since 1917

88 PIANO’S FOR SALE HEINTZMAN PIANOS

Rentals I Sales I Restoration I Tuning New & Vintage I Keyboards I Pianos

2328 Government Street • 250-384-3935

3050 Nanaimo Street, Victoria, BC Phone: 250-386-5542 www.hillsideprinting.com

Friends&Family » Winter 2015 | countrygrocer.com » 29

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

What could be better than a little more stylish, wellorganized space? Murphy Wall-Beds has been in business for over 22 years.The space-saving Murphy Wall-Bed and companion custom cabinetry are crafted right here on the Saanich Peninsula.

“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 are 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.

Unsure just how a Murphy Wall-Bed will fit into your home? Take advantage of our 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.

LAKE COWICHAN 83 Lake Cowichan Rd. 250-749-6335 7am to 9pm 7 days per week

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

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

ROYAL OAK (VICTORIA) 4420 West Saanich Rd. 250-708-3919 8am to 10pm 7 days per week

BOWEN ROAD (NANAIMO) 1800 Dufferin Cresc.

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

ESQUIMALT (VICTORIA) 1153 Esquimalt Rd. 250-382-5515 8am to 10pm 7 days per week

Helping People Attain Optimum Health • CLEANSE • REPLENISH • REVITALIZE Made in Germany Considered the best rebounder in the world

LET US SHOW YOU HOW TO INCREASE YOUR USEABLE SPACE.

Total Blender

CALL US TODAY! 250-744-2195 OR 1-800-670-5505 Titanium Non-Stick Cookware Set

3075 DOUGLAS STREET | VICTORIA WWW.MURPHYBEDS-VICTORIA.COM Vancouver Island’s Only Authorized Murphy Bed Dealers

30 » Friends&Family » Winter 2015 | countrygrocer.com

250-370-1818 • 770 Spruce Ave. www.trianglehealingproducts.com

the

RENAISSANCE retirement residence

“ T H E A R T O F L I V I N G W E L L”

Tours from

Monday to Saturday 10am to 4pm

The Best Choice in Retirement Living, Quality and Convenience Our Walking Score 92. “Walking is our Best Medicine” Hippocrates 400 BC Availability is limited.

Call for a tour today.

1188 ESQUIMALT RD. (VILLAGE CENTER) 250.386.1188 | www.renaissancevictoria.com

proudly

MADE IN CANADA

GowllandHarbour.com

250 285 3572

Cozy up in one of our comfortable lodge rooms.

Feast by the fire on a delectable 3 course dinner.

Wake up to artisan coffee and a hot breakfast.

STARTING AT $220 BASED ON DOUBLE OCCUPANCY. TAXES, LIQUORS AND GRATUITIES NOT INCLUDED. VALID WEDNESDAY THROUGH SUNDAY FROM OCTOBER 1 2015 - MARCH 31 2016.

SUBJECT TO AVAILABILITY

From our trees to your table!

LB MAPLE TREAT CORP. 100% PURE MAPLE SYRUP CLASSIC PRODUCTS

www.lbmapletreat.com Friends&Family » Winter 2015 | countrygrocer.com » 31

Bring a world of joy to the table.

Cooking a Mexican-inspired meal, an Italian entrée or a delicious French feast? Udi’s Gluten Free is your passport to flavour and fun.

®

Sans Gluten

Choose joy. www.udisglutenfree.com • facebook.com/udisglutenfree • twitter.com/udisglutenfree