Autumn 2021 Country Grocer Friends & Family Magazine

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

&

Friends Family Fall 2021 | Complimentary

Esquimalt Salute

Shining a Light

Retiring manager credits community for 20 rewarding years

Island family supports others facing childhood cancer

Recipes I Nutrition I Pets I What’s in Store

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Autumn

WELCOME

IN THIS ISSUE Shine a Light Island family’s experience with childhood cancer becomes a beacon of hope for others

Welcome to the autumn edition of Friends & Family magazine.

We hope everyone enjoyed PETER CAVIN, their summer DIRECTOR COUNTRY GR and had plenty OCER of fun with your friends and family!

This year marks Country Grocer’s 37th anniversary. Stay > RECIPES – PAGE 14 tuned for our annual giveaway Crown Roast of Pork in-store and on Facebook and Instagram. We’ll be celebrating Roasted Yam with daily draws and awarding and Pretzel Stuffing prizes amounting to $35,000!

A huge thank you to our supThrilled Grilled Cheese pliers who are supporting our anniversary celebration. We wouldn’t be able to do it withON THE COVER out you.

Brad Boughton, This December, Brad, our store manager, Esquimalt store manager, is Esquimalt Country Grocer. retiring. “Thank you” doesn’t Jennifer Blyth photo even begin to describe how grateful we are for his 20 years of incredible hard work and Editor Jennifer Blyth dedication. Don’t worry, you’ll jennifer.blyth@blackpress.ca still see Brad in the store part Group Publisher time as he isn’t ready to leave Michelle Cabana us forever just yet. michelle.cabana@blackpress.ca Advertising Sales Brad will be handing over Patty Doering the keys to new store manager pdoering@vicnews.com Dave, so when you see him, Production please give him a warm welKelsey Boorman come! Read more about Brad Circulation 250-480-3285 on page 6.

As we ease into autumn, we want to wish everyone a happy Thanksgiving. Come November, blackpress.ca be sure to stop by your local 818 Broughton St. store for the annual Help Fill Victoria, BC V8W 1E4 A Dream campaign for Island Friends & Family magazine is children, kicking off Nov. 19. published quarterly by Country Grocer and Black Press. The points As always, stay up-to-date of view or opinions expressed herein with this and the rest of Counare those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of try Grocer’s news and events on the publisher of Friends & Family.

Facebook and Twitter The contents of Friends & Family magazine are protected by copyright, (@CountryGrocer) and Instaincluding the designed advertising. gram (@CountryGrocerVI).

Reproduction is prohibited without

4 6

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Friends&Family » Fall 2021 | countrygrocer.com » 3

t h g i l g n i A shin

Sue Kerr and son Jacob at Paddle for Health, a fundraiser for Island Kids Cancer Association.

Island family’s experience becomes beacon of hope for others coping with childhood cancer

BY JOANNE HILL Imagine having your child diagnosed with cancer. How would you begin to explain to your five-year-old boy that his life is going to change? What about his three-year-old sister? How would you keep moving forward and maintain hope?

Sue Kerr has walked this path and her story is one of hope even in her darkest hour.

Hope means different things at different times. Sometimes it’s a fiercely burning beacon and sometimes a tiny point of light barely discernible in a raging storm. Sue has an uncanny ability to see the tiny point of light in the worst tempest. During her darkest time, she took that glimmer and made it a beacon of hope for families facing their own childhood-cancer story.

Sue’s story is not just hers. When her

son Jacob was five, Sue noticed something wasn’t right. Her parental instinct and insistence on further tests revealed a large mass in Jacob’s body – neuroblastoma, a cancer requiring aggressive treatment.

Sue sounds objective, the medical terms rolling off her tongue, but it’s a language learned out of necessity.

The next year brought some expected challenges, such as rounds of chemo and stem-cell therapy that left Jacob sick and balding. There were feelings of isolation and bouts of despair. There were unexpected challenges – money became tight, the family was strained.

Friends didn’t know how to react.

One night, exhausted, in the grocery store with $8.48 to her name, Jacob, now six and visibly ill, reminded Sue about living in the moment in the way

4 » Friends&Family » Fall 2021 | countrygrocer.com

only a child can.

“He kept banging the cart into the back of my legs,” Sue remembers, tears in her eyes and a broad smile on her face describing the motion with her hands, “I told him to stop, it hurt! But he just kept doing it!” She’s animated, telling a familiar story, saying what most parents would in that situation.

“I told him to stop or we were leaving, and you know what?” she pauses, her eyes sparkling, “He did it again!”

As promised, Sue scooped up a now-loudly protesting Jacob. In that moment, Jacob was like every other sixyear-old – just a kid pushing the boundaries, and Sue was just a mom dealing with an everyday-childhood moment. It was life. It’s a good memory, a normal memory.

While at Ronald McDonald House

in Vancouver, Sue met a community of people with shared experiences binding them together, coping with a situation that only someone who has lived through it can truly understand. As Sue soberly points out, “no matter how bad it is for your child, the horrible part is that there’s always a story worse than yours.”

Sue remembers a five-year-old boy, a leukemia patient staying in Ronald McDonald House with his “Nan” because his single mom couldn’t be there: she had to keep working to pay their mortgage.

He was full of life, but he was desperThe Kerr family, Sue, Julia, Jason and Jacob, supporting families living with childhood ately ill. He became palliative after a cancer, at Paddle for Health. year, and for the last week of his life, his mother was by his side. The prewas diagnosed with osteosarcoma (bone cology families’ stories through Island cious time she could have spent with cancer). He passed away in 2019.

Kids Cancer Association. her little boy was spent staying afloat The question had to be asked – These stories don’t end with remisfinancially, hoping for a future that sion or end of life.

“Where do you see hope when your didn’t come.

Survivors live with the spectre of child is dying?”

“At the end of the day,” Sue says cancer returning – families are changed Sue had a ready answer: “There matter-of-factly, “all we have is time. forever by this terrible disease, whatwas hope even when Jacob was dying Money should not be a deciding factor ever the outcome.

– there was hope – he did it the way in spending time with a seriously ill Sue’s simple idea of financial aid he wanted and he had full control. child.” grew into assistance with everything Hope carried me She finishes her from emergency help to counselling and through my grief. statement gently, therapy for what comes during and after, I always felt that but there’s a steely making the story about the people first.

I could move fordetermination in ward – he helped Her strength, like her son’s, is inspirher eyes that has ing. “I can’t do anything about what us by being so driven her to make we went through with Jacob but I can strong.” change.

At the end of the day, problem solve and I can learn from it to Jacob’s light Sue didn’t want help others.” was the glimmer all we have is time. other oncology Help comes in many forms and when Sue saw when he Money should not be families choosing Sue approached Country Grocer, she was only five. between irreplacea deciding factor in knew she was approaching a communiHis story tells able, priceless time ty-minded, local business. They quickly us that “the spending time with a and financial hardasked “What do you need?” and folstrength of the ship. Already a seriously ill child. lowed through with discounts on gift human spirit is medical advocate cards dispersed through the hospital more powerful – Sue Kerr for her son, Sue clinic, public awareness through the than any disease began to advocate magazine, and additional fundraising ... His light shone for others. brighter and brighter the closer he came through their Country Grocer barbeHer determination and hope grew to cues as a charity of choice. to leaving us.” become Island Kids Cancer Association, If you want to be part of the story, Jacob’s funeral showed the power an initiative committed to providing donate directly to Island Kids Cancer of the community’s strength gained support for local families.

Association at ikca.ca/get-involved. through his light. It was evidence of Sue’s family’s story is heart-wrenching. hope, even in death. Jacob’s story of To learn more about the annual Jacob endured a second round with canPaddle for Health fundraising event strength and resilience is his own, but cer and won the battle, but in 2017, he visit paddleforhealth.ca. it’s also Sue’s and is part of many on-

Friends&Family » Fall 2021 | countrygrocer.com » 5

Esquimalt salute Relationships built with customers, community and co-workers are among the highlights of a long grocery career

BY JENNIFER BLYTH Brad Boughton has enjoyed many highlights in his 46-year grocery career, but constant throughout has been the relationships.

After several decades with Country While shy growing up, working with customers, buildGrocer, Esquimalt store manager ing connections with community groups and mentoring Brad Boughton is embarking on a – and being mentored by – some amazing co-workers well-deserved retirement later this fall. all helped bring him out of his shell, Brad says.

Brad in 2018 (above) and marking his “It’s been great to have people come in early in their 15th anniversary with Peter Cavin. careers and see them develop and grow.”

Today, as he eyes retirement as Esquimalt store manager, those relationships are among the highlights of 20 years with the Country Grocer team.

The store’s two major renovations were also significant ca“I really enjoy the social aspect,” he says, recalling a quote reer milestones and he enjoyed

by Confuscius that he read as a young teen: “Choose a job you tapping into his creative talents love and you’ll never work a day in your life.” to help create the store’s new floorplan.

Coming to Country Grocer, first to the Royal Oak store in “Over the years Brad quickly advanced in his responsibilities 2002, then to Esquimalt, it was that “family” feel that appealed at the stores and has always been there for his co-workers, listo him. The Island grocer’s commitment to the communities tening and leading,” says Country Grocer Director Peter Cavin. they serve suited his own philosophy, and Brad has enjoyed “He has treated the Esquimalt location as if it was his own building connections with everyone from local sports groups business, paying attention to all details. He has mentored hunand schools to organizers of events like RibFest, the Esquimalt dreds of people over the last 20 years and has been a wealth of 5K and the annual Celebration of Lights. knowledge, as well as being a steadying and positive influence The store also works closely with the Esquimalt Nation, Esquimalt Neighbourhood House, Rainbow Kitchen, the Mustard within the business.

Seed and others, hosting fundraisers, store-front barbecues, “Brad has been a tremendous asset to our business and providing food donations and much more. contributing to the growth of Country Grocer with a positive “Our customers support us and spend their hard-earned impact on the people he has worked with, our customers and money with us, so it’s important that we support them,” he supporting the Esquimalt Community,” Peter adds. “There says. “There’s a really close network in Esquimalt. Working aren’t enough kind words to say to thank a person for choosing with everyone is very rewarding.” to share two decades of his life working with us. Brad is a great

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6 » Friends&Family » Fall 2021 | countrygrocer.com

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person and we are so glad to have him as part of our lives.”

Country Grocer’s Andrew Cavin feels very fortunate to have been able to work with Brad.

“His depth of knowledge in the grocery industry is impressive and his attention to detail is something that will always stick with me,” Andrew says. “He has built great relationships with both customers and community groups which makes for long walks around the store. Thank you for all the laughs and lessons over the years!”

Craig Cavin, Director, South Island stores, notes that Brad has played a huge part in the growth of Country Grocer and his own education and experience.

“I learned a lot from him over the years, working in different departments in the store, and working alongside him now.

He has meant a great deal to the Esquimalt store, to everyone who has worked with him and to the whole community. It’s hard to sum up 20 great years, but we know he will be missed in that role and it will be impossible to replace what he brings to the table every day,” Craig says.

“We can’t thank him enough for all he has done. Congrats and all the best, Brad.”

While Brad prepares to pass the keys to incoming store manager Dave Kajak later this fall, we won’t fully miss him just yet as he plans to continue to be involved part-time, he says.

After all, he says, “Country Grocer’s motto, ‘You’ll feel like family,’ is 100 per cent accurate in my opinion.”

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Notes

NUTRITION WITH SHELLEY TURNER

Quick & Simple: Bring ease into all areas of life take on tasks feelThe breeze of the air that kisses your cheek is cooler. ing less stressed or The warmth of the sun that hugs your body is softer. overwhelmed, better The colours of the trees are shifting. memory recall, and The earth beneath your feet is forever grounding. improved ability The pull to go inward is the gentle invitation from Nature as to fall asleep and the inevitable season begins to change. stay asleep, feeling Instinctually the animals begin to hibernate, and, however presmore restful upon ent you are, instinctually Self begins to go within to settle, to rest, waking. to reflect.

When stress is Though events and momentum continue on as they may, the consistent and season invites you to slow just a little bit more. heightened, the Maybe it’s a warm, soothing lavender Epsom salt bath with immune system only the light of a Honey Candle. can become depleted, so adreMaybe it’s journaling, reflecting on how you were being with nal formulas also improve the immune system during times of yourself or others. With this you may be softening into compasstress. Have you ever had vacation time or rest time when that’s sion with a warm herbal tea and tunes playing in the ambient when you get sick? background.

That’s the immune system finally being able Burn out, fatigue, low energy beto say ‘Hey, thanks for slowing down, now fore the afternoon, molasses under that we’re not in survival mode, I need to flush your feet? this cold/fatigue out,’ and now you’re sick for It’s time to slow down and allow the first part of vacation. a more restful state. This supports To reduce the chance of that happening, the parasympathetic nervous sys“Nurture yourself notice if you’re always in a rush, feeling burnt tem, known as ‘rest and digest.’ out or, you’re burning the candle at both ends.

The contrast is the sympathetic today and everyday in Where can you slow down in your week? nervous system, known as ‘fight or some small way.”

Where do you need extra support with flight.’ So do you want to quickly tasks or where can you reduce your tasks? and simply get into a parasympaTo improve memory and mental focus, thetic state at any point of your many professionals and parents have also begun using Lion’s day?

Mane, a medicinal mushroom shown to increase memory recall, A quick breathing technique that has stood the test of time and focus and productivity. has been used by the military is known as Box Breathing. Okay Harmonic Arts and Purica are both local companies passionate great, so we breathe in a box? Nope, it’s the counting with the about the quality standards of their medicinal mushroom product breath that makes the breath like a box, also known as Square offerings. They both offer beautiful vegan mushroom blends with Breathing. hot chocolate.

You can try this out right now. Breathe in for two seconds, hold These make warm drinks especially supportive in the cooler at the top for two seconds, then breathe out for two seconds, hold seasons. I enjoy these to replace coffee. Coffee has been a contribat the bottom for two seconds. uting factor in reduced sustained energy and affects my nervous Try this for three rounds or ‘boxes.’ As you practice over time, system and sleep. add a second to each round as you progress your lung capacity Nurture yourself today and everyday in some small way. making your way up to a four second count. The more you do Use the breathing technique any time you notice shallow this powerful healing and calming breathing technique in your breathing. Support your adrenals when you notice overwhelming day and weeks, the more oxygen you bring into your body which and ongoing stress. Enjoy mushroom blends any time because nourishes your brain, memory, calmness, reduces anxiety, and they support your whole increases nutrient absorption. body system.

Additional support, and just as powerful for your parasympaWhat honours thetic rest and digest nervous system, are Adrenal Adaptagens. yourself honours evThese are nutritional supplements containing herbs formulated eryone, what honours to balance the stress hormones, including cortisol which can influeveryone honours ence sleep, mood and weight gain/loss. Ongoing stress over time yourself. can tax the adrenals and then the thyroid.

Namaste Supporting the adrenals would feel like the improved ability to

Friends&Family » Fall 2021 | countrygrocer.com » 11

MEET THE

Tea m

Bringing wellness home Like many who come to nutrition and wellness as a profession, Carla Williams was drawn to the field after her own personal health concern. While she’d always believed she had a healthy diet, kidney stones prompted her to begin learning more about nutrition, and wellness more generally.

In addition to her own research and learning, the long-time Country Grocer team member took a full-year program at the Canadian School of Nutrition. When the position of Nutrition Manager became available at Cobble Hill Country Grocer, Carla brought her five years of experience managing the south Nanaimo Country Grocer nutrition department, and there was no question she was the right person for the job – and that Country Grocer continues to be the right fit for her!

“It comes down to the connection I have with my customers,” Carla says. “We have engaging conversations, sharing personal histories, and that comes from being open, without judgement, and having a genuine care and concern for who they are. And really, what a perfect place to have a nutrition department – in a grocery store!”

The local Country Grocer store is a familiar, welcoming location for people to add to their new or long-standing interesting in nutrition and wellness, allowing Carla the opportunity to pursue her passion of sharing health and wellness knowledge.

“It really does have that family feel here,” she says.

“I can’t tell you how many times someone has come back and brought me to tears, telling me how we’ve affected them, their family and Carla Williams, their friends,” Nutrition Manager, Co bble Hill Country Groc Carla says, er recalling one client who specifically waited until Thanksgiving to come in and share how thankful she was for Carla’s help.

“I really do look forward to my work every day – the customers, my co-workers and the nutritional industry we work with.”

When she’s not supporting people in the nutrition department, you might find Carla out exploring the central Island’s beautiful natural spaces with her camera in hand, or continuing her education into plant medicine and herbology.

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Recipes From Chef Michael

Crown Roast of Pork Servings: 10 Preparation Time: 10 minutes Cooking Time: 90 minutes This is a fantastic way to create a special dinner. A crown roast of pork sitting at the centre of the table has a commanding presence and is sure to get your guests’ mouths watering. Season the roast and cook it as per the instructions below or for an added element of delish, stuff the roast with my Roasted Yam and Pretzel Stuffing, also featured here.

Roasted Yam and Pretzel Stuffing Servings: 8 Preparation Time: 25 minutes Cooking Time: 50 minutes This is one of my favourite stuffing recipes, no doubt. Portofino Pretzel buns make for a perfect stuffing bread, but this recipe has just as much volume in veggies and a heck of a lot more weight. That’s how I roll, as you know. The yams make up the bulk and they’re truly delicious as a stuffing.

INGREDIENTS:

INGREDIENTS:

1 crown roast of pork Grape seed oil Sea salt Chinese 5-spice Fresh ground pepper

2 Tbsp butter 1 celery stick, sliced ½ of a red onion, diced 5 cloves garlic, sliced 1 yam, diced A few Tbsp rosemary leaves, chopped 2 Portofino pretzel buns, cut into cubes 2 eggs ¼ cup whipping cream ½ tsp salt ½ tsp fresh ground pepper ½ tsp cinnamon

METHOD: 1. You may need to order a crown roast of pork from the meat department ahead of time so you don’t need to wait around. Just give them a call!

2. If you want to make your presentation extra special, take the time to scrape the exposed bones and remove all of the connective tissue. You can do this with a sharp boning knife or paring knife running up the bone with pressure on the blade on a 45 degree angle. Take good care as this is risky business.

3. Once the bones are scraped, wrap each one individually with tin foil.

4. Now it’s time to oil and season. Liberally drizzle some high smoke point oil (grape seed, avocado, or coconut) all over the roast and then liberally season with salt, 5-spice and pepper.

5. If you’re going to use the stuffing, now is the time. Fill the space between the bones and mound it up nice and high. Have any excess spill down the back of the roast.

6. Bake in a 375°F oven for about 90 minutes, or until the roast reaches an internal temp of 145 – 160°F. Personally, I prefer 145°F. 7. Let the roast rest in a warm place for about 15 minutes before cutting and serving. I’m pretty sure you’ll enjoy!

VARIATIONS: If you want to change up the spice profile, go with salt, pepper, brown sugar, paprika and granulated garlic.

METHOD: 1. Preheat a large fry pan on medium heat.

Add the butter and then the celery, onion and garlic. Sauté, stirring regularly until everything starts browning.

2. Now you can add the yams, cover the pan and sauté for a further 5 minutes or until the yams are softened, stirring occasionally to prevent any burning.

3. Add the rosemary to the pan and sauté for 1 minute longer and then transfer everything to a large mixing bowl.

4. Add the cubed bread and then whisk the cream and eggs together in a separate bowl, then add that as well.

5. Season with the salt, pepper and cinnamon and mix very well. I find your clean hands are the best tool for this job.

6. Now you can stuff a bird or a crown roast of pork and cook until the desired temperature is reached. Alternatively, just pack the mixture into a casserole dish or even a muffin tin and bake until browned and set.

VARIATIONS: As an added step you can toast the pretzel bread cubes in a 200°F oven for 30 minutes or until they’re lightly browned. Then add ¼ cup of chicken broth when mixing everything together.

14 » Friends&Family » Fall 2021 | countrygrocer.com

Thrilled Grilled Cheese Servings: 2 Preparation Time: 30 minutes Cooking Time: 15 minutes There’s nothing light about this sandwich, so go ahead…indulge! I love making my own bread for this recipe – just type “no knead bread” into the search bar at countrygrocer.com – otherwise use your favourite loaf.

INGREDIENTS: 4 slices of your favourite bread or my no-knead recipe 2 Tbsp butter ½ a red onion, sliced 1 Granny Smith apple, julienned 3 cloves garlic, sliced ¼ cup balsamic vinegar Natural Pastures Brie, sliced fairly thick ¼ cup Parmesan cheese Your favourite salad blend DRESSING: ¼ cup extra virgin olive oil 2 Tbsp balsamic vinegar ½ tsp sea salt ¼ tsp fresh pepper Some left-over balsamic onions and apples METHOD: 1. Start about 24 hours ahead if using my noknead bread recipe from countrygrocer.com 2. Once you have your bread sorted, liberally spread each slice with room temperature butter.

3. Preheat a large fry pan on medium heat.

Add butter and once melted, add onion, apple and garlic. Season to taste with salt and pepper. Sauté until nicely caramelized, stirring regularly, then add the balsamic. While stirring, let the balsamic reduce and cook into the mix.

4. Preheat a clean large fry pan on medium heat.

Now, assemble your sandwiches: place cheese down first on the non-buttered side of the bread, then add a good dose of the balsamic apple/ onion. Place bread into the fry pan, buttered side down, then top with the other piece of buttered bread, completing the sandwich. Repeat with the other sandwich. Grill until nicely toasted, flip, then spread grated parm onto the freshly grilled side. Once the second side is nicely grilled, flip one more time to lock in the Parmesan.

5. Serve up your amazing sandwich with side salad adding remaining caramelized apple/ onion into salad if desired. Enjoy!

VARIATIONS: The creaminess of the Brie in this would pair nicely with some spice. You could add a little bit of cayenne pepper to the balsamic mix to jazz things up a touch.

Serving Vancouver Island since 2001 Fresh look. bold ideas.

Experienced • Local • Diverse Call for appointment.

250-382-5885

FACTORY/SHOWROOM

875 Viewfield Rd. Victoria, BC www.protechvi.com

250.382.7446

http://www.gfxsigns.com/

Funeral Arrangements Made in the Comfort of Your Home • Low Cost Cremation • Green Burial • Pre-Planning Arrangements

In Victoria since 1973

• Sales • Restoration • Concert Tuning

• Traditional Burial • Obituaries • Locally Owned

Casio | Heintzman | Vintage Steinway Used Yamaha | Kawai

Call 24/7: 778.440.8500 #5 - 831 Devonshire Road, Victoria www.earthsoption.com earthsoption.com

If you are dreaming of playing piano, give us a call.

Open by appointment.

We are happy to work out all the details to make it happen for you.

2328 Government St. 250-384-3935

Your Local Island Source Since 1919 - Pet Food, Treats & Supplies - Wild Bird Food & Supplies - Garden Center - Grass Seed & Fertilizer - Giftware & Toys - Clothing & Footwear - Poultry Feed & Supplies - Equestrian Feed & Supplies - Honey Bee Equipment - Hand Tools and a whole lot more...

Your Community’s Best Source of Child Care Information & Resources Child care information & referrals Assistance with the Affordable Child Care Benefit Toys and resources for you and your child

Contact: Victoria 250-382-7000; Ask us about the Affordable Child Care Benefit, new funding to help more families afford child care

Country Stores

Langford - 975 Langford Pkwy.

Saanich - 1970 Keating Cross Rd. Duncan - 5410 Trans Canada Hwy. Nanaimo - 1277 Island Hwy. Parksville - 587 Alberni Hwy.

Curbside delivery of toys and materials Virtual workshops Virtual support with a consultant

250.940.4499 250.652.6188 250.748.817 1 250.753.4221 250.248.3243

HealtH protocols in place.

Victoria:

250-382-7000 www.ccrr.bc.ca

Friends&Family » Fall 2021 | countrygrocer.com » 15

Chef

MICHAEL WILLIAMS

Let’s get Cookin’ on the Coast I’m so excited about what’s about to happen! It’s season 9 for Cookin’ on the Coast and my third go as host of the show, which kicked off Saturday, Sept. 25 at 6 p.m. on Chek TV. As I went through the process of filming for this season, it certainly felt as though I was producing my best content thus far. My first season was a little intense. I was launching Urban Forage in its first incarnation as a corporate luncheon catering specialist and things were getting busy. That was demanding enough without adding in trying to perform on ‘stage’ and relaying great recipes to you, the viewer.

Filming of my second season was much more comfortable as I knew what to expect and had a better idea of how to work with the amazing team at Chek TV. This third season was so smooth and so fun, and I’m really excited to share it with you!

We have a fantastic line-up of culinary creations and featured suppliers for this 2021 season. We kick off episode 1 with an epic Panini Sandwich with Bacon-Infused Aoili and a side of Squash Hash Browns! You’ll also see such delicious recipes as a Mexican-inspired Twice-Baked Yam. On another episode, I’ll teach you how to make a super-easy and delicious veggie-loaded Red Thai Coconut Curry with Local Rockfish. We’ll also make a super Tangy and Delicious Chicken Soup with a side of Polenta Fries! How about an epic Chipotle Lime Chicken Pizza with a simple dough from scratch? Is your mouth watering yet?!

As always, we feature some healthy and practical but ever-delicious meal ideas. We’ll make a veggie-loaded, easy take-away Mason Jar Salad and for those folks looking for gluten-free ideas, we make a Chickpea and Turmeric Bread and turn it into a fantastic vegetarian entrée.

If you keep tuning in each week, I’ll teach you how to make Chorizo Sausage Rolls with Local Puff Pastry and a great go-to Indian-spiced Ground Beef Curry that freezes really well. We do another award-winning mac & cheese…

this season featuring my Ancho Chili Mac & Cheese with Bacon Crumble. And if you join us on the Saturday leading up to Thanksgiving, I can guide you to a very tasty and delicious dry-brined Turkey dinner. In what has become a tradition, we also do a great brunch episode featuring one of the best Caesars I’ve ever had.

My favourite episode features what I think of as my signature dish. This is a Molasses and Cumin Slow-Roasted Pork Shoulder. It’s crispy on the outside and so tender in the middle.

We serve it up with a delicious baked bean recipe and refreshing salad. Overall, we try to offer up something for everyone and cover all the bases.

In the end, this season was such a pleasure to create. The filming schedule was just right for me personally and was the perfect bridge to opening up our first brick and mortar location in the Atrium where Urban Forage has been born again.

My fiancé and I found a beautiful space where we’ve opened our brand new concept Specialty Market/Café. We got the keys just in time to use this great space as the test/production kitchen for Season 9 and now that it’s up running you’ll find many of the recipes featured on ‘Cookin on the Coast’ through the years, so come down and say hi!

Keep on cookin’ and remember, “Dinner is better when we enjoy it together.”

Welcome to the amazing world of insects, arachnids and their many legged friends!

ROOFING The Last Roof You Will Ever Need!

GUTTERS Gutters (Eavestroughs) SIDING Vinyl Siding & Island Eco-Siding 250.382.5154

irwin@irwinvi.com

www.irwinvi.com

16 » Friends&Family » Fall 2021 | countrygrocer.com

Discover over 40 different species of live arthropod in our world famous mini zoo.

Located in the heart of downtown Victoria.

Our knowledgeable tour guides are always available to show off our incredible animals and let our guests hold them in a safe, fun, friendly environment.

www.victoriabugzoo.ca

OVER 40 YEARS EXPERIENCE SERVICINg AUTOMOBILES

Don’t Trust Your Vehicle to Just Anyone.

Voted

Best City of the

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Induction & Fuel Injection Service Diesel Fuel Service Brake Service

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t 27

Y E A R

Thank You Victoria!

Oil Service Electrical Exhaust Tires

784 Fairview Rd. Victoria (250) 383-5509

www.tracksideautoservice.ca

250.475.2000

517 Kelvin Rd https://searlesauto.ca/ SearlesAuto.ca

Full Service Commercial Real Estate • Retail, Office & Warehouse • Sales & Leasing • Business Asset Sales • Property Management • Financial Consultation • New Home 250-381-2265 Construction & Sales www.naivictoria.ca • Residential Sales Friends&Family » Fall 2021 | countrygrocer.com » 17

Tidbits

Help fill the dreams of Island children

The Future Cures Coalition: Local Grocers Team up to Break Down Cancer Independent grocers on Vancouver Island are partnering with the BC Cancer Foundation to raise $500,000 to advance life-saving diagnostic technology that will change cancer outcomes for prostate cancer patients.

Running from Sept. 8 to Nov. 8, the Future Cures Campaign will harness the power of community with grocers including Country Grocer, Tru Value, Thrifty Foods and Quality Foods.

PSMA/PET is state-of-the-art imaging technology used to optimize and inform treatment for prostate cancer patients. The imaging scans help pinpoint the precise location of prostate cancer and reveal if it has spread.

“For patients with advanced disease, tomorrow is too late. PSMA

scans can find smaller metastases and increase survival,” says Dr. Kim Chi, from BC Cancer.

“Philanthropic funding will help us bring these solutions to patients across BC.” Funding PSMA/PET will help move this breakthrough technology into a future standard of care in BC. To donate today, visit bccancerfoundation.com/futurecures!

Enviro E33G Insert

GAS • WOOD • ELECTRIC SHOWROOM OPEN Mon - Fri 8:30 am to 4:30 pm Saturday 10 am - 4 pm

2205 Keating Cross Rd 250-544-6769 pacificfireplaces.com info@pacificfireplaces.com

18 » Friends&Family » Fall 2021 | countrygrocer.com

Add a little local joy to your holiday season and help fill the dreams of Island children diagnosed with a medical condition or severe health challenge.

Visit your Country Grocer from Nov. 19 to Dec. 16 and purchase your Islandgrown Christmas tree or a specialty bouquet from Eurosa Growers, or donate at the till, and you’ll add to the amazing $125,000+ raised over the past 10 years for Help Fill A Dream children.

Since 1986, the non-profit has supported families from Vancouver Island and Gulf Islands whose lives have suddenly changed due to their child’s diagnosis – helping families so they can concentrate on the health, care and recovery of their child.

In addition to fulfilling children’s Dreams, the organization provides financial assistance to help with travel costs associated with receiving health care, medical or therapeutic equipment to address special needs and therapeutic resources.

Learn more at helpfilladream.com

25

YEARS OF PROFESSIONAL SERVICE

Keeping Your Water Hot! Our team can help you!

• •

Plumbing • Heating Sewer • Drainage

•

Gas

Leaking Toilet? Slow Drains?

Need a new Faucet?

We can help with Repairs, Replacements, & Renovations

CALL 250.920.7877

We work SATURDAY at NO extra charge! www.swiftplumbing.com Friends&Family » Fall 2021 | countrygrocer.com » 19

Pets

Tidbits

Part of the Family

12 Days of Tea shares holiday spirit with local youth For anyone finding themselves at risk of homelessness, this season can present significant challenges – even more so for youth who may find themselves without a safe roof over their heads.

From Nov. 1 to Dec. 31, all seven Country Grocer stores will be selling these 12 days of Tea gift boxes from Silk Road, to benefit the Threshold Society. The gift box retails for $20.

The Threshold Society serves at-risk youth experiencing homelessness, aging out of care, or fleeing violence in the home, providing young adults with a place to call home and people who believe in them. The organization offers safe housing, community and support to help youth from Vancouver Island and the Gulf Islands make healthy choices and shift toward a brighter future.

To learn more, visit thresholdhousing.ca or call 250-383-8830.

Meet three-year-old Barnum – so named because he’s just like PT Barnum, the Greatest Showman. It’s a circus. From his first full day at home, Mr. B has been the ring master, running the show and taking the bows.

He’s clever (too clever), built like a tank, and not afraid to throw his weight around. He loves to ride on anything with wheels: cars, scooters and bikes.

He knows his left from his right, can shake hands and high-five, his favourite game is tug-of-war, on his terms, of course.

One of his favourite treats is Fresh Pet Dog Joy Turkey Bacon, from the Royal Oak Country Grocer.

And that face in the photo? “Did someone say ‘Walk?’”

www.islandeggs.com

Who’s your four-legged best friend? Cat, dog, rabbit?

We’d love to meet them!

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

The Bathroom Remodel Specialists Complete Bathroom Renovations Tub/Shower Conversions & Walk In Tubs Senior Accessible Baths & Equipment

We Don’t Just Cover the Problem. We Fix It.

250.386.2284 (BATH) www.pacificbathrooms.ca 20 » Friends&Family » Fall 2021 | countrygrocer.com

GET THE TIRES THAT FIT WITH YOUR CAR….

HUGE SELECTION OF GREAT BRANDS AT COMPETITIVE PRICES

Finest At Sea A MOST WARM HEARTED THANK YOU TO OUR EVER LOYAL CUSTOMERS & COMMUNITY

Peninsula Tireland & Auto Centre “Your Neighbourhood Service Centre” #1 - 2061 Malaview, Sidney, (near Slegg Lumber) 250.655.4212 www.tireland.ca

Certified Organic Coffee

Thanks to your continued support, our home grown commercial fishing company has been able to proudly provide wild, local & sustainable seafood, direct from our fishing fleet to our seafood boutique here in James Bay for many years.

Open 7 days a week

27 Erie Street, Victoria, BC V8V 1P8, Phone: (250) 383-7760

Real Estate. Real Results.

Sean Dyble MBA CD REALTOR®

Serving Victoria, the Westshore estshore and Duncan

www.creekmorescoffee.com

http://www.seandyble.ca http://www yble.ca sean@seandyble.ca | seandyble.ca | 250.880.7326

Friends&Family » Fall 2021 | countrygrocer.com » 21

7 Community Locations

on

LOCAL • ETHICAL • SUSTAINABLE FREE Self-guided Tours Canada’s 1st “Milk on Tap” Dispenser OPEN EVERY DAY

250.954.3931

403 Lowry’s Rd, Parksville, BC morningstarfarm.ca www.morningstarfarm.ca 22 » Friends&Family » Fall 2021 | countrygrocer.com

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

SALT SPRING ISLAND 374 Lower Ganges Rd. 250-537-4144 7am to 9pm 7 days per week

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

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

Bowen Road (NANAIMO) 1800 Dufferin Cresc.

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

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

Handmade Samosas at your local Country Grocer yournanaskitchen.com Convenient Comfort Foods with a Global Taste Taste the Difference

fresh produce fresh quality fresh service 4911 Wellington Rd, Nanaimo, BC V9T 2H5 PHONE(250)758-0191

A proud supplier to Country Grocer

Outdoor Spaces for All Seasons – Rain or Shine

Patio Covering Solutions for Home or Restaurants

Rollshutters, Screens and Railings

Visit Our Showroom M-F, 9am-5pm 2745 Bridge Street, Victoria, BC Phone

250.361.4714

info@PacificAwnings.ca Web PacificAwnings.ca

Email

WE ARE VANCOUVER ISLAND’S LARGEST RETAILER OF AWNINGS, ROLLSHUTTERS, LOUVERED PERGOLAS AND RETRACTABLE ROOF SYSTEMS

Friends&Family » Fall 2021 | countrygrocer.com » 23

www.blood.ca/BC