Country Grocer Friends & Family Fall 2019

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

Friendss Family Fall 2019 | Complimentary

COOKIN’ ON THE COAST

&

New cooking show highlights Island products

A HOME FOR HEROES Veterans find a home to call home

BAKING FROM SCRATCH From our kitchen to yours

countrygrocer.com

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

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2 » Friends&Family » Fall 2019 | countrygrocer.com

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Celebrate 35 years with us!

Welcome to the fall issue of Country Grocer’s Friends & Family Magazine and the 35th anniversary of Country Grocer!

So much has changed for us and our communities in those 3 1/2 decades, but so much more is as it was when we started.

We are proud to PETER CAVIN, Director share our same commit- COUNTRY GROCER ment to our Vancouver Island community – to our team in the stores and behind the scenes, to our Island growers and producers, and to you, our customers.

From the beginning, we set out to create a local, family business where our team and customers truly “feel like family,” and we continue to develop that philosophy every day.

In this issue, we’re proud to share some of those long-standing relationships – like Island Pastures Beef, which brings the best grass-fed, grass-finished beef to your table, and our own scratch baking from the Country Grocer bakery.

We’re also proud to share our support of vital community organizations like Cockrell House, which offers housing and supports for homeless veterans, and the Cycle of Life, which raises money for Island Hospice Care.

While we can’t know what the next 35 years will bring, we hope you’ll join us in finding out.

Enjoy!

IN THIS ISSUE

Cookin’ on the Coast

4

In the kitchen with Chef Michael

8

> RECIPES – PAGE 14 The Ultimate Breakfast Sandwich Crown Roast of Pork Nutritious Apple Crisp

ON THE COVER Chef Michael Williams on the set of Cookin’ on the Coast, courtesy Chek Editor Jennifer Blyth jennifer.blyth@blackpress.ca Group Publisher Penny Sakamoto psakamoto@blackpress.ca Victoria News Publisher Michelle Cabana mcabana@blackpress.ca Advertising Sales Patty Doering pdoering@vicnews.com Production Janice Marshall Crea Zhang Circulation 250-480-3285 blackpress.ca 818 Broughton St. Victoria, BC V8W 1E4 Friends & Family magazine is published quarterly by Country Grocer and Black Press. The points of view or opinions expressed herein are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the views of the publisher of Friends & Family.

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

Reproduction is prohibited without written consent of the publisher.

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Friends&Family » Fall 2019 | countrygrocer.com 3

COOKIN’

on the

Chef Michael Williams on the set of the new Chek TV series, Cookin’ on the Coast

Coast

BY JENNIFER BLYTH

It’s been a lot of fun with lots of tasty, delicious recipes with a focus on local ingredients and producers.

– Chef Michael Williams

Home cooks and Friends & Family readers will quickly recognize the new host of a familiar cooking show on Chek TV. It’s Chef Michael Williams at the stove for the show’s seventh season – and out and about on the Island visiting with local growers and producers responsible for his fresh, flavourful ingredients.

And that’s the focus behind Cookin’ on the Coast, a half-hour cooking show which premiered its new season on Chek on Sept. 7 – “Flavour loaded, simple and nutritious, original recipes that

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

feature Vancouver Island products.”

“It’s been a lot of fun with lots of tasty, delicious recipes with a focus on our local ingredients and producers,” Chef Mike says.

Sponsored by Country Grocer, the Island’s ColdStar Solutions for the Cooking on the Road segments, and Liquor Plus for beverage-pairing segments, the team has filmed an initial order of 13 episodes.

Each episode opens in Country Grocer, gathering the ingredients and talking about the recipe, before getting down to work in Chef Mike’s kitchen.

“Half-way through cooking, we head out on the road where we feature one

Time to

Celebrate!

Looking back at our very first Friends & Family magazine, published as Country Grocer marked its 30th year, Chef Michael Williams graced the cover, highlighting the Island-grown company’s commitment to fresh, local food.

While the founders’ grocery roots reach back much farther, Country Grocer traces its history to 1984, when Food Country opened in Nanaimo. 1985 brought the Ganges Village Market on Salt Spring, followed by Lake Cowichan Village Market, a second Nanaimo store and Esquimalt’s Mr. Grocer in 1986. The Royal Oak store joined the family in 1987 and Cobble Hill in 1999.

The Nanaimo and Victoria groups

of Country Grocer’s amazing artisan products,” Chef Mike says.

Once everything is finished and ready to enjoy, “Cookin’ on the Coast wraps up with a beverage pairing that may surprise viewers. Craft brews, local wines or crazy cocktails are presented to complement the cuisine of the day,” Chek notes.

While we don’t want to give too much away, viewers can expect Chef Mike’s usual healthy, simple and creative approach to cooking – with LOTS of flavour.

A particular favourite is the coffee episode, he says, including Coffee Chili Spice Rub, with Espresso Coconut Sauce featuring Level Ground espresso.

Other flavourful creations include a chipotle black bean and beet burger, and chicken prepared with Phillips’ Dare Devil Orange Cream Soda.

“It’s just such a fun and wonderful opportunity to be able to work with Country Grocer on something like this and feature these amazing local products, that people can find right in their local store,” Chef Mike says.

Catch Cookin’ on the Coast Saturdays at 6 p.m. and of course, if you’re already in the kitchen or sitting down to dinner, set the PVR! And see more from Chef Mike on pages 14 and 15.

worked together to open the Island Independent Buying Group in 1997, with their combined buying power providing significant savings for shoppers.

Today, as October brings the company’s 35th anniversary, the Country Grocer family is excited to celebrate not only the path that has led them here, but also the road ahead.

As a new generation takes on leadership roles in the stores and administration, they bring years of experience in all facets of the industry. Their vision for the future is built on the legacy that has brought the company to this point: community, customer service and a commitment to “local.”

This issue is chock-full of examples – from working with producers like Island Pastures Beef to supporting vital community initiatives like Cockrell House for Island veterans and the Cycle of Life for Island hospice care.

But none of it would be possible without you! So to celebrate, watch for your chance to win. In addition to in-store giveaways Oct. 18, a full four weeks of anniversary fun is planned on social media.

WATCH SATURDAYS @ 6PM

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Catch Country Grocer’s Chef Michael Williams on Cookin’ on the Coast!

Flavour loaded, clean and nutritious, simple, original recipes that feature Island supplier products available at Country Grocer stores.

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

Dean and Claudia Bruyckere, two of the Island Pastures Beef ranchers producing grass-fed, grass-finished beef

Grass-fed, grass-finished beef:

Worth the wait

BY JENNIFER BLYTH

Dean and Claudia Bruyckere are blessed with farmland that naturally grows grass really well.

It’s one of the main reasons the Parksville ranchers choose to raise grass-fed,

grass-finished cattle, and why they and fellow rancher Brad Chappell joined forces to create Island Pastures Beef, Dean says.

And that’s been great news for Country Grocer shoppers.

While some ranchers will start or finish their cattle with grain for a quicker weight

gain, the Island Pastures Beef ranchers commit to only feeding their cattle grass – exactly what cattle would naturally eat.

The right location helps too, with fertile land producing just what their animals need to thrive.

“We produce a lot of grass – high-quality grass – that the animals do really well on,” Dean notes.

Without adding grain to their diet, the process is more gradual, however, so it takes about 20 to 30 per cent longer to raise the cattle – which brings a little higher price point for the consumer.

But you’ll likely also taste the difference.

You might notice meat from grass-fed and finished cattle is leaner and a deeper red in colour – more like bison.

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ver Island to raise enough cattle to supply a grocery store, the Bruyckeres and Chappell welcomed additional smaller producers in Black Creek, the Alberni Valley, Cowichan Valley and Denman Island to the Island Pastures Beef family.

In fact, Country Grocer’s seven stores are the only places you’ll find Island Pastures Beef, in an arrangement that’s a true win-win for both. Not only does the locally grown grocer know they have a steady source of exceptional quality, local beef, but the ranchers know they have a steady market, Dean says, inviting other ranchers to get in touch if they’re interested in joining the Island Pastures Beef family.

Consumers also appreciate knowing exactly where their beef comes from, he adds.

“We’ve committed to them and they’ve been good to us,” Dean reflects.

Get the most from your grass-fed, grass-finished beef Because grass-fed, grass-finished beef tends to be much leaner, it typically needs a little less cooking time. Here Dean offers his tips for his go-to, a classic rib-eye steak, but visit the recipe section on countrygrocer.com for a delicious Island Pastures Beef Pot Roast, perfect for fall!

Start by searing your steak on both sides, then reduce the heat to finish cooking. Dean prefers his on the rare side, but cook to your preferred done-ness without overcooking.

“I always tell people, don’t over-cook it,” he says.

“People will often cook grass-fed, grass-finished beef as though it has the marbling of regular beef, and often it doesn’t. Have a look first to see if it has much marbling,” he says.

Taking the meat off the heat, move it to a plate to let it rest before serving. The steak will continue to cook a little through this time, but resting helps the juices spread throughout the meat.

Enjoy!

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

‘Baker Dave,’ in the bakery at the Cobble Hill Country Grocer

Baking from scratch

BY JENNIFER BLYTH

There’s a lot happening in Country Grocer’s Cobble Hill bakery most days – from mixing the dough for the day’s oh-sosavoury focaccia to creating custom cakes

Desserts created in your Country Grocer bakery from scratch!

Jennifer Blyth photos

We the kitchen equipment experts. and baking fresh pumpkin pies on-site allare bakery, and that’s exactly what Country season long.

Grocer prides itself on, notes baker Dave In fact, ALL of these things are happenEvans, known as “Baker Dave” to his ing during our recent visit. team and many customers.

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away from baking this way, “Country Grocer is one of the only stores on Vancouver Island where many of their baked goods are baked from scratch,” says Dave, who’s been baking for more than 20 years.

Here, cheese breads are made with Paradise Island cheddar cheese, raisin bread is created from Country Grocer’s own sweet dough recipe, and scones are crafted from scratch ingredients – the cinnamon scones are a customer favourite! Add to that more than 10 varieties of muffins, from chocolate chip to “Country Carrot” to triple berry, and you’ll taste the difference fresh makes!

Dave loves the creativity of his work, and the idea of putting dough or batter in the oven and removing a beautiful finished product a short time later. “I don’t think there are many other jobs like this,” he says.

For customers, that equates to a fresher, tastier product.

“You know that what you purchased was likely made that day, and you know what went into it,” Dave says.

Just like the Country Grocer Signature Sourdough – definitely one of their

most popular items, and one Dave is especially proud of.

“My sourdough is my baby,” he says.

“San Francisco is world-renowned for their sourdough and I had the opportunity to visit the city’s baking school for a week’s training in sourdough.”

Then there’s Country Fresh cookies, exclusive to Country Grocer, and their soft and delicious buns that are baked fresh daily. “People rave when I bring them,” Dave says. “My goal is to make the buns the star of the dinner!”

Questions or ideas? Stop by and chat with the team.

“I love having the opportunity to come out and talk with customers and share what we’re doing,” Dave says, recalling one who asked when Dutch Crunch bread would be “coming in.”

“I said it will be coming out of the oven in 10 minutes!”

Kevin at work in the Cobble Hill bakery; left, ‘Baker Dave’s’ pride and joy: Country Grocer Signature Sourdough.

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Friends&Family » Fall 2019 | countrygrocer.com » 9

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From Simon’s Specialty Foods in Richmond comes these traditionally hand-crafted pies – flaky pastry packed full of ripe fruit. Choose your favourite from a variety of flavourful combos including peach-apple, strawberryrhubarb, cherry-apple or even a so-good apple caramel crumble. Prefer straight-up apple? They do that too!

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Be summer savvy It may be fall, but that doesn’t mean burger season is over, especially with these amazing options from 7 Seas. Packed full of healthy, gluten-free protein, choose from shrimp and edamame or wild sockeye salmon with edamame.

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

IN THE COMMUNITY

A HOME for heroes

BY JENNIFER BLYTH It was during a chance conversation a dozen years ago among a group of Victoria-area residents and veterans that Dave Munro asked, “What are we doing for our homeless veterans?”

“I think that put two words together that I had never heard put together before,” reflects Angus Stanfield.

And that got them thinking...

One of the fellows at the table, Russ Ridley, owned a building with a number of rental units. As units became available, they would open them to former service members who were homeless.

Word spread, and the men became aware of more and more veterans who needed their help: “As soon as you find one, they know of others,” Angus says.

Their vision grew bigger.

“Eventually, we were renting the whole building off Russ and the conversation turned to whether we should buy it.”

Today, the 11-bed multiplex provides disadvantaged veterans with housing, counselling, life skills, health and social services, and transportation.

Operated by volunteers with the nonprofit SMVIZ Veterans Housing Society, which works to provide shelter, food

Rick Stiebel/Black Press

Director Angus Stanfield and resident manager Rick Nicholson at Cockrell House, which provides housing for homeless veterans. and support services to former members of the Canadian Armed Forces, Regular and Reserve, Cockrell House enjoys support from the BC/Yukon Legion Foundation, along with the local office of Veterans Affairs, the City of Colwood and community members like the Esquimalt Lions and Country Grocer, among others.

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August’s motorcycle show at Cobble Hill Country Grocer welcomed hundreds of bikes of all makes and models, including custom rides from Jay Burnham’s award-winning Freakshow Custom Choppers.

Chef Michael Williams was also a big part of the effort, cooking up delicious burgers for visitors.

Andrew Leong photos

August’s motorcycle show (see next page) at the Cobble Hill Country Grocer raised $800 for the residence.

“That support is huge. Every little bit helps – and every single donation helps,” Angus says. “What we really need to do is expand, and to do that, we need money. If we had double the rooms we have now, we’d have them full.”

Angus estimates that about 8 to 10 per cent of the Canadian homeless population has worn a uniform at some point, and find themselves experiencing homelessness for any number of reasons.

Often they don’t feel comfortable in urban locations or shelters.

While the majority of the society’s 100-plus residents since 2010 have been men, women have also found a home at Cockrell House, named for longtime member of the Langford Legion, Jack Cockrell, who quietly went about his work in the community.

“Jack meant so much to us and to everybody around the Legion,” Angus says. “He really understood. He just handled everything so well – he was a true leader.”

Helping the residents in their transition is Rick Nicholson, resident manager and a fellow veteran.

“We’re of the belief that having housing first goes a long way to getting people on the right track. Then they get a food voucher and a bus pass, and each unit has a washer and dryer ... simply having a clean set of clothes has such an effect,” Angus says.

“When we started, I said if we could have one success, it would be worth it. Now I keep saying this is so worthwhile because we’re doing so much better than that,” Angus says.

As one former resident said, “‘It’s a safe space that gives you breathing room,’” Angus recalls.

“We’ve had so many come back and say, ‘We’ve done well and now we want to give back.’”

To learn more about Cockrell House, visit legionbcyukon.ca/ legion-foundation/cockrell-house. Donations are also gratefully accepted and can be earmarked to Cockrell House.

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

RECIPES from Chef Michael

The Ultimate Breakfast Sandwich

Crown Roast of Pork

Nutritious Apple Crisp

Servings: 1 Preparation Time: 20 minutes Cooking Time: 10 minutes

Servings: 10 Preparation Time: 10 minutes Cooking Time: 90 minutes

Servings: 4 Preparation Time: 20 minutes Cooking Time: 45 minutes

After tasting this creation, I wondered why anyone would want to go out for breakfast if they knew how to make this sandwich.

It’s awesome and a perfect Sunday brunch kind of go-to.

This is a fantastic way to do dinner “all special like.” A crown roast of pork sitting centre of the table has a commanding presence and is sure to get your guests’ mouths watering. Season the roast and cook as per the instructions below or for an added element of delish, stuff the roast with my Roasted Yam and Pretzel Stuffing.

This is a clean take on the usual heavy dessert. Since we do not have flour in the crust, you can keep this gluten-free by using gluten-free oats! Also try it out with honey instead of the coconut sugar for a “sugar-free” option.

Ingredients: Country Grocer bacon cheddar breakfast scone Avocado, sliced Tomato, sliced thin Red onion, sliced very thin Tannadice Farms bacon, cooked crispy Cage-free egg, fried over-easy Little Qualicum Raclette Mayo Hot sauce Method: 1. Cut the scone in half horizontally so that it can begin receiving all these amazing ingredients.

2. Next, I like to apply the avocado and red onion on the bottom half of the scone.

3. Heat a medium or large fry pan on medium heat. Add the bacon and cook on both sides until it’s just how you like it.

4. If there’s enough room in the pan, you can cook your eggs at the same time. Otherwise, wait until the bacon is cooked. Make sure that the pan is clean enough for you eggs and give it a quick clean if necessary. You can reserve the bacon fat to cook your eggs in though! I really like over-easy eggs for my breakfast sandwiches – they are messy, but delicious – but cook the eggs how you like them.

5. Place the cooked egg on top of the avocado and onion. Top with the cooked bacon, cheese and tomato.

6. Spread a generous portion of mayo on the top of the scone and then apply as much hot sauce as desired.

7. Time to get messy and enjoy!

Ingredients: 1 crown roast of pork Grape seed oil Sea salt Chinese 5-spice Fresh ground pepper 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 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 with the blade on a 45-degree angle. Take good care as it is easy to cut yourself during this process.

3. Once the bones are scraped, wrap each bone with tinfoil.

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 season – liberally again – 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 380°F oven for about 90 minutes, or until the roast reaches an internal temp of 145 – 160 degrees. I prefer 145 degrees personally.

7. Let the roast rest in a warm place for about 15 minutes before slicing and serving.

I‘m pretty sure you’ll enjoy!

Variations: • Instead of the spice combo to season the roast, go with salt, pepper, brown sugar, paprika and granulated garlic.

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

Ingredients: 3 apples, core removed and sliced thin ½ tsp cinnamon 1 cup large flake oats ½ cup coconut flakes 2 Tbsp coconut sugar ¼ tsp salt 1/3 cup butter, melted Method: 1. Begin by slicing your apples using a knife or a mandolin.

2. Next, toss the sliced apples with the cinnamon in a small mixing bowl until evenly distributed and then place the apples in a small- to medium-sized casserole dish.

3. Now, in your blender or small food processor, add the oats, coconut, sugar and salt and pulse to chop the oats and coconut.

4. Add the butter and continue to pulse until incorporated. Now, top the apples with the oat mixture.

5. Bake in a preheated 350°F oven for about 45 minutes or until nicely browned on top.

6. Cool for 10 minutes and then enjoy as is or with vanilla Greek yogurt or ice cream.

Variations: • Keep the coconut connection rolling by substituting coconut oil in place of the butter if desired.

CHEF MICHAEL WILLIAMS

Giving thanks This article is all about thanks. And not just any simple thanks, but a massive thanks that I, Michael Williams owe to Country Grocer for the opportunity that they’ve allowed me over the last 11 years.

Before we get there though…11 years ago I was landscaping; building beautiful paving stone patios, pathways and driveways as well as crafting gardens, water features, working the bobcat and driving a dump truck. It was awesome!

While I did love creating stunning landscapes and everything that came with that job, I was in fact taking a hiatus from my true calling. You see, I was burnt out and at the end of my rope and had very little desire to get back into the daily grind of the commercial kitchen again, ever.

I had done my time, earned my chef papers, travelled to Europe and back, worked at award-winning restaurants, competed on a TV blackbox competition and worked a season as the head chef at an exclusive heli-ski resort in central BC. One day, in the middle of the landscape building season, came an opportunity to become the food stylist for Country Grocer. The locally owned and operated grocery chain had just re-vamped the marketing department and one of the first goals was to bring some continuity, consistency and beauty to the Country Grocer flyer.

Shortly after, a new website was in the works and I was asked to start creating a recipe library for the site. After having just finished writing my first cookbook,

Gourmet Nutrition, I had realized that writing recipes was a new passion, so this opportunity was amazing.

With my new role, I basically got the keys to the grocery store. At any given moment I could walk into the store and then walk through the till with whatever I wanted, no charge, as long as I was creating amazing recipes for the website or crafting food for photo shoots.

I fell in love with cooking again and in fact, began learning what it meant to cook for real – real food that people eat every day…recipes that are simple and easy but still singing with flavour.

Although I had worked in some of the finest restaurants in the world, I had never made a simple roast beef. I remember having that moment where I thought, geez, something so simple yet I am not comfortable with it.

My role with Country Grocer quickly led to a dream-come-true for most any chef: the ability to play with food at home, doing photo shoots, cooking and creating and getting paid to do so.

As a result, I’ve written nearly 500 recipes (all available for you at countrygrocer.com) and in the process, this beautiful partnership has shaped me into the chef I am today.

Now, I have two cooking shows as well, Island Chef on Shaw TV and Cookin’ on the Coast on Chek TV which is just amazing and so much fun – I get to create incredible food and teach people how to be pros in their own kitchen!

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Beyond that I am also Country Grocer’s exclusive caterer where I get to cater incredible events such as the Cycle of Life Tour, which raises hundreds of thousands of dollars for hospice every year, or when I create a private three-course dinner for eight that gets auctioned off each year to raise money for Help Fill a Dream.

So thank you Country Grocer for giving a guy the ability to become the best chef he can be and for being such a massive contributor to the community in so many different ways and including me in it all. It is such a fantastic pleasure to work with you and I hope our relationship continues for a long time!

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

Locally Owned & Operated Since 1984

7 Great Locations, Open 7 Days a Week.

Victoria (Esquimalt) ...... 1153 Esquimalt Rd. Victoria (Royal Oak) ...... 4420 West Saanich Rd.

Cobble Hill ...... #33-1400 Cowichan Bay Rd. Nanaimo (Chase River) ...... 82 Twelfth St. Nanaimo (Bowen Road) ...... 1800 Dufferin Cres.

Lake Cowichan ...... 83 Lake Cowichan Rd. Salt Spring Island ...... 374 Lower Ganges Rd.

Celebrating

35 years on Vancouver Island!

Thanks to our awesome customers, suppliers, farmers, & team members for 35 years.

NUTRITION NOTES WITH NANCY HOWSE

Back-to-school basics “The human brain is special. It starts working as soon as you get up and it doesn’t stop until you get to school.”

– Milton Berle I love funny quotes, especially as there’s usually more than a nugget of truth in them. Now that school is back and fall is here, focusing on energizing the student mind, and fueling them for learning, critical thinking, sports, creativity, and developing our future leaders, rock stars, scientists and contributors to society, let’s start with the basics!

Let’s fuel our kids and help them function better in all ways. Breakfast for growing bodies is a great and important start. Healthy lunches and snacks also can’t be over-emphasized.

Getting everyone out of the house in the morning is a huge challenge for all parents. One trick I like for a quick healthy breakfast is to soak oats overnight. Let them sit in a pot of water, add blueberries, flaxmeal, maybe some hemp hearts, and leave it in the refrigerator overnight. Put the pot on the

stove in the morning to simmer while you are getting ready for the day. In a few minutes you have your warm and ready oats. You can add a dollop of kefir, yogurt or even coconut cream.

Can anyone tell me what is more Canadian than adding maple syrup to that? Heaven!

If you really want to up the ante, add one of my personal favourites, Bulletproof Brain Octane, roughly one teaspoon per bowl. The whole family will benefit with more mental energy, focus and balanced blood sugar.

You’ll get your fill of fiber, antioxidants, EFAs, and rocket fuel.

For those of you who balk at the idea of eating breakfast, just put it in a ‘to go’ container and eat it when you’re ready.

Most of us know to pack healthy lunches and snacks. This includes veggies, many protein selections and options; I encourage water over sugary drinks. Trying to keep the sugars and processed food to a minimum is essential to a child’s ability to focus with good consistent energy and good moods that lead them to being great receptors of learning on many levels.

I can’t over emphasize fish oil supplements for healthy growing brains either.

Country Grocer recently picked up a new raw vegan food bar called Mocolate – nitrogen-packed for consistent freshness, full of top-tier fresh ingredients, and best of all, made on Vancouver Island by Kevin and John.

No chalky, dry ingredients, and suitable for most diets and people on the go.

The beginning of the school year usually hails the beginning of the cough and cold season as well. For kids, I love the A. Vogel Echinacea Jr. for children age two and older.

This product is great for prevention and treatment. As a side note, A. Vogel Echinacea is non-GMO, and is also approved by Health Canada as safe for pregnant and breast feeding mothers. Another of my faves is Suro Cough Syrup, made from fresh elderberries grown in Ontario. Goodtasting is a great bonus.

If a multivitamin and vitamin C are on your list, Sisu makes a great kids’ gummy multi and vitamin C. Feedback has been great from our customers on this product!

Come and see us in the supplement aisle for other great suggestions, or supplement needs.

Happy Autumn everyone!

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250.382.5154 • irwin@irwinvi.com • www.irwinvi.com

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

AfterSchool SchoolClasses Classes After September-December After School Classes September-December September-December Registrationsstill stillavailable! available!

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Performing Arts Classes for Youths and KidsArts AgedClasses 5-17 including: Performing for Youths

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TP the Town bigger & better No one should have to choose between buying toilet paper and buying food.

For too many families, however, that’s their reality. TP the Town, celebrating its fifth year in Greater Victoria, aims to change that.

After last year collecting a recordsetting 125,000 rolls of toilet paper in a single day – toilet paper that went directly to the less fortunate across Vancouver Island – organizers hope to surpass that Oct. 5, and do a little more besides.

This year, TP the Town will also collect feminine hygiene products. The move really stemmed from donors themselves, says Shaun Cerisano, who brought the event to Victoria, based on a friend’s similar event in Kingston, Ont. “People were taking the initiative to donate hygiene products along with the toilet paper, plus we had heard from multiple food banks and organizations that there was a big need for feminine hygiene products in the same way as the toilet paper.”

Speaking to volunteers from last year,

“they’re really happy to see it grow,” adds Andrew Wilson, President of Operations.

Several new locations will help them meet that goal. In addition to Country Grocer stores in Royal Oak and Esquimalt, volunteers will be collecting at Victoria-area Thrifty Foods and Saveon-Foods stores, bringing the total to 22 stores, the most ever!

The stores offer discounted products, encouraging shoppers to pick up a package to donate, in addition to their own.

“To see the numbers grow like that, it just means we’re able to help more

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

Serving customers on Vancouver Island for more than 50 years and a proud partner of Country Grocer since 1999

people. When we deliver all the donations to the food bank and you hear the stories from people, you really feel the impact,” Shaun says.

The additional stores also bring the need for more volunteers.

To volunteer, for a few hours from 10am to 1pm or 1 to 4pm, or the full day, email andrew.wilson@prodigygroup.ca, indicating the shift(s) and location you’d be available for.

“Or if you’d like to get a group together and take one store full day, that would be fantastic, too!” Andrew says.

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610 Herald St. Victoria | 250.382.6184 fountaintire.com Friends&Family » Fall 2019 | countrygrocer.com » 19

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Meet Corrie, an 11-year-old Sheltie.

Corrie is a therapy dog who enjoys weekly visits to The Lodge at Broadmead, near Country Grocer’s Royal Oak store. “She’s been visiting the lodge for nearly 10 years and brings much joy to the residents there,” says Corrie’s “mum,” Cora Thomson.

Both Corrie and Cora are certified in the Pet Therapy program with St. John Ambulance.

Corrie also visits schools and libraries where the children read to her. She loves her job!

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Cat, dog, rabbit ... we’d love to meet them! Send along a photo and a few words about what makes your furry friend part of the family to Friends & Family editor Jennifer Blyth at jennifer.blyth@blackpress.ca

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

TIDBITS

The Country Grocer Spinners raised an amazing $42,594 in support of Island hospice care during July’s Cycle of Life.

Christin Carruthers photo/Cycle of Life Tour

Spinners set record ride for hospice care

BY JENNIFER BLYTH It was a weekend of record-setting fundraising during July’s Cycle of Life Tour.

The two-day, 200-kilometre ride set an all-time fundraising high, raising more than $280,000 for hospice care across Vancouver Island.

More than 100 cyclists rode in support of eight Island hospices, including the Country Grocer Spinners, who also set their own record: $42,594!

“Every year there’s just “This year’s ride was once more awareness, with again just amazing – it’s so more team members (and much fun and rewarding,” Dave Hubscher, Country family members) interested says Grocer’s Director of Meat in riding and raising money Operations.

The team not only doubled for hospice care.” its riders, it nearly doubled

– Dave Hubscher its fundraising total from last year too. With 13 riders signed up, team members came from all Country Grocer stores in communities where hospice care is provided – Nanaimo, Cowichan Valley, Victoria and Salt Spring Island – which is just fantastic.”

While the riders come together for a common cause, they get a lot out of the experience too, Dave notes.

“Every year there’s just more awareness, with more

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

team members (and family members) interested in riding and raising money for hospice care,” he says.

In addition to meeting the individual fundraising target of at least $1,000, the Spinners also undertook numerous hot dog sales and generally got creative to raise both awareness and donations.

“We also got in a head-to-head battle with the Comox Valley Cyclepaths, which pushed the team a little harder as we had to retain our title of top fundraising team,” Dave says with a laugh. “No doubt next year will be another challenge, but we’ll be up for it!

“We also give a big thanks to Country Grocer for being part of this great cause and kicking in a little extra at the end to help us keep that title, and to all the suppliers and customers who got on board at store level.”

And of course, the team and all the Cycle of Life riders and volunteers appreciated Chef Michael Williams’ delicious barbecue feast on Salt Spring as they rested their weary legs at the end of Day 1.

The tour was founded in 2011 by Graham Robertson, who that year cycled solo from Alaska to Victoria in support of Victoria Hospice.

Seeing the opportunity to expand the scope of the ride and its impact, the Cycle of Life, presented

by Think Communications, now features multiple cyclists, riding to raise funds for hospices across the Island.

Watch for details about next year’s ride at cycleoflifetour.ca, where registration will open in January.

TIDBITS

CONTEST

See you at the parade!

Tell us & win: Island must-haves

While summer won’t quite be over when this issue of Friends & Family hits the shelves, plans are already well underway for Country Grocer’s holiday float. While this year’s theme remains a closely guarded secret, we look forward to sharing the holiday spirit with all our friends and family!

• Ladysmith Festival of Lights and Parade, Thursday, Nov. 28 • Esquimalt Celebration of Lights Parade, Sunday, Dec. 8 • Island Farms Santa’s Light Parade in Victoria, Saturday, Nov. 30

Congratulations to reader Connie, this issue’s winner of a gift basket chock-full of Island Good products.

We asked you about your Island Good must-haves – here are some of our favourites!

Connie says she’s always keen to see the Island’s fresh spring and summer fruit, “grown Island Good, right in the ‘neighbourhood’ – especially the strawberries but also the tangy rhubarb either on its own or as complement to the sweet strawberry. And the fresh figs are such a treat, for the short season they are available!”

In Nanaimo, Bertha gives a shout out to Country Grocer’s own 60% Whole Wheat Bread. “Wonderful and keeps us healthy!”

Henry’s go-to Island Good treat is micro greens, for their concentrated nutrition. “I enjoy salads and this gives them interest and added punch,” he says.

“I also like County Kitchens’ convenience and flavour, with stuffed chicken breasts and pork chops and their smoked bacon and yummy sausages – so much to try and enjoy with the added bonus of them being locally made from products sourced locally as well.”

Susan recalled hearing a talk by a nutritionist, where the discussion turned to whether or not it was okay to eat beef. She said she had no objection to people eating some beef that was grass-fed and grass-finished.

“That stuck with me so I was very happy to see Country Grocer was selling Island-raised, hormone- and antibiotic-free, grass-fed-and-finished beef ... It has so much more flavour and I don’t feel guilty feeding it to my family.”

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Friends&Family » Fall 2019 | countrygrocer.com » 25

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Country Kudos When it comes to providing great service, Country Grocer team members are repeat performers. Penelope Griggs has recently received her third accumulative kudo nomination, with several Cobble Hill shoppers commending her for her exceptional service!

(Of course, Friends & Family readers will also recognize Penelope as a regular contributor on Penelope Griggs nutrition topics, too!)

“She is so awesome, happy and willing to help customers!

What an asset to your store!” wrote one customer.

“She has always been so helpful...I have so been pleased with the service provided,” says another.

One Saturday shopper commended Penelope for taking the extra time to ensure she got the right product. “She took the time to explain the differences between the cans that were available. Much appreciated as I was purchasing it for others, not myself. Thank you very much for the great service!”

Kudos!

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

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The Cape Scott North Coast Trail Shuttle Runs from May 1 - Sept. 15 Cell: 250-902-8208 www.northcoasttrailshuttle.com 26 » Friends&Family » Fall 2019 | countrygrocer.com

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IN YOUR COMMUNITY ESQUIMALT & VICTORIA Sept. 7 – Urban Food Garden Tour, self-guided tour of more than 13 inspiring urban food gardens, 10am to 4pm. Learn about year-round home food production, growing in small spaces, vegetables, bees, chickens, fruit trees, greenhouses, soil, sustainable watering and more. Tickets: $15. Info: vicurbanfoodgardens.wixsite.com/tour Sept. 21 – Children’s Story Festival, featuring an awesome line-up of storytellers, 10:30am to 1pm in Esquimalt’s Memorial Park, with lunch from Esquimalt Lions and Country Grocer from 11am to noon.

Sept. 21 – Saanich Fire Department 100th anniversary open house,10am to 2pm at Saanich Fire Station No. 1, 760 Vernon Ave. Parking available at municipal hall. Info: saanich.ca Oct. 31 – Hallowe’en Bonfire, hosted by the Esquimalt Lions in the Archie Browning Sports Centre Rear Parking Lot, 6 to 9pm. Enjoy a huge bonfire, costume contest for all ages and hot

chocolate and hot dogs by donation to the Lions’ community fundraising efforts. Info: esquimalt.ca

COWICHAN VALLEY Sept. 21 – 35th annual September Festival. Follow the piper to discover the food At all Country Grocer communities – Support court, silent auction, plants local food banks by looking for the BC Sharing and preserves, plus treasures donation pads at the till. Simply add $2 to at giant yard sale and kids’ your grocery bill and 100 per cent goes to activities. Reduce, reuse and your local food bank! recycle at this zero-waste event, 10am to 2pm at St. event with entertainment, costumes, John’s Anglican Church, 3295 prizes, food and treat bags for your Cobble Hill Rd., Cobble Hill. Credit/ little ones, 6:30 to 8:30pm. Get debit accepted. Info: 250-743-3095 dressed up in your favourite costume stjohnscobblehill.ca and bring the entire family out to the Oct. 20 – Cowichan Autumn Classic, a Shawnigan Lake Community Centre.

5km, 10km or Combo (5km + 10km), Info: cvrd.bc.ca plus kids’ 1.2km run along the roads Nov. 14 to 17 – 40th Christmas and trails in Glenora area. Starts and Chaos arts and crafts fair at the ends at Vigneti Zanatta winery. Info: Cowichan Community Centre, plus ceevacs.com Santa’s Workshop, live entertainment, community displays, daily raffles and Oct. 26 – Halloween Harvest more. Info: cvrd.bc.ca Hoedown, a free, family-oriented

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For Fordetails detailsvisit: visit: HallsGreenhouesBC.com HallsGreenhouesBC.com AADivision DivisionofofRussell RussellNursery Nursery

Dec. 1 – Village Light-Up, a free, family-friendly event with games, food and entertainment to kick-start the holiday season in Shawnigan Lake, 3:30 to 6:30pm. Rain or shine.

Info: cvrd.bc.ca

LAKE COWICHAN & AREA Sept. 14 – Lake to Lake Walk, Marathon & Half-Marathon, from Shawnigan Lake to Cowichan Lake, walk or run the full marathon (42.2 km) or half-marathon (21.1 km) for the charity of your choice along the Cowichan Valley Trail. Info: cvrd. bc.ca/3041/Lake-to-Lake-Marathon Oct. 31 – Halloween Haunted House, beginning at 5:30pm at the Youbou Hall. Free admission. Info: cvrd.bc.ca Nov. 15 – Jersey Day Free Skate, 11am to 12:50pm at Cowichan Lake Sports Arena. Free admission with Jersey. Info: cvrd.bc.ca

NANAIMO Sept. 20 to 22 – Nanaimo International Jazz Festival, bringing exceptional local, national and international performers to downtown

Salt Spring Apple Festival, Sept. 29 Nanaimo. info: nanaimojazzfest.ca Sept. 22 – StoryWalk 2019, Beban Park Altrusa Playground for a free, selfguided, interactive park activity and “Share, Big Bear, Share” Story Walk.

Info: nanaimo.ca Sept. 26 – An Evening of Dogs, a fun family educational time to learn lots of dog basics – care, how to approach a dog, what you can do with your dogs on Vancouver Island and more, 6pm at Beban Park Centennial Building.

Info: nanaimokennelclub.ca Oct. 12 to 14 – 23rd annual Gabriola Studio Tour, featuring 97 Gabriolan artists in 82 studios – including 27

new artists on the tour this year!

10am to 5pm. Info: studiotour. artsgabriola.ca.

SALT SPRING Sept. 14 & 15 – Salt Spring Fall Fair, 9am to 6pm at Salt Spring Island Farmers’ Institute: 351 Rainbow Rd. Sheep dog demos, tractor pull, pet parade, livestock and the 4H, music, food and more! Info: ssifi.org/fall-fair Sept. 29 – 20th annual Salt Spring Island Apple Festival, celebrating the 450+ varieties of apples grown organically on Salt Spring, with an apple history dating back to 1860.

Info: saltspringapplefestival.org

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

7 Community Locations BAJA ROSI’S CURATED CONSIGNMENT 103-797 GOLDSTREAM AVE. Serving Victoria for over 16 years.

30 » Friends&Family » Fall 2019 | countrygrocer.com

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

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

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

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

BOWEN ROAD (NANAIMO) 1800 Dufferin Cresc.

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

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

100% ISLAND-RAISED, FARM FRESH

CHICKEN

Proud to be part of your community. We only serve island-raised, island-processed, island-sold poultry that’s guaranteed fresh, wholesome and packed with flavour.

FARMHOUSEPOULTRY.CA