April 2022 Issue 161

owichan

APRIL 2022 ISSUE 161 HAPPY EARTH DAY I COWICHAN EASTER I PROMISE VALLEY FARM I LOCAL ARTS

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Our dairy products are made from 100% A2A2 whole Guernsey milk. Milk is small batch pasteurized and left whole to produce a taste that is second to none. Promise Valley Farm also operates under organic principles and will be certified organic later this year, as well as regenerative practices to build soil and animal health.

GRAND OPENING EVENT April 23 • 10am - 4:30pm

Scheduled farm tours at 11:00am and 1:30pm Come and meet the beautiful Guernseys who produce the high quality dairy products we enjoy. Showcasing local vendors and Guernsey milk lattes!

Find us at 7088 Richards Trail, Duncan

www.promisevalleyfarm.ca 3

April 2022 Issue 161 Cowichan Valley Voice Magazine Publisher Richard Badman Editor Sheila Badman Contact us at: editor@cowichanvalleyvoice.com 250 746 9319 I 6514 Wicks Rd, Duncan BC V9L 5V2 Visit us online at www.cowichanvalleyvoice.com Distribution

Proofreader Calendar Richard & Sheila Badman Diana Pink Angela Sheppard Advertising Enquiries: please Contact us at info@cowichanvalleyvoice.com for a rate card, monthly offers and print ad specials.

Next Ad Deadline April 15 for May 2022 Issue 162 *Non Profit Community Ad Rates available please enquire.

COMMUNITY CALENDAR LISTINGS ARE FREE! Next EVENTS DEADLINE April 15 for May 2022 Issue 162 E-mail: Date, Event Title, Time, Location and Cost w/ subject “EVENT” to events@cowichanvalleyvoice.com Cowichan Valley Voice Magazine reserves the right to, omit and/or edit submitted listings due to space limitations.

SPECIAL THANKS TO FOLLOWING VALLEY VOICES Larry Pynn, Madeleine Greey, Sonia Furstenau, Patty Abbott, Haley Godolphin, Jenny Garlini, Grant Easterbrook, Cam MacDonald, Craig Spence, Dorothy Settles, Dorota Lockyer, Alicia Fall, Silvia Graber, Courtney Christensen, Tamara Dinter, Phil Reilander, Kendra Thomas, Viridian Energy Cooperative, Marti Smith, Madeline Southern, Terence Miranda, Warren Goulding, Dr. Bill Nielsen, David & Ranji, Jackie Barker, Tim Mock, Cara Bjornson, Diana Pink, Vida Glaser, Filipa Santos, Debbie Wood, Madelaine MacLeod, DeAnna Cross, Pat Unger, Ray Anthony, Caroline Dreary, Jude Wong, Karen Allen, Sheila Badman, Joanne Sales, Shiloh Badman, Angel Jury, Venita Chow, The lovely Georgia Nicols, Nicolette Genier, Cindy Jolin and the Wonderful Staff at the Community Farm Store.

We welcome your story ideas and photo submissions; however Cowichan Valley Voice Magazine reserves the right to omit and/or edit all submissions for space, clarity, content and style. The opinions expressed in Valley Voice Magazine do not necessarily reflect those of the editor, publishers or other contributors. Please send a query email with your suggested topic prior to sending your article as space is limited and may not always be available.

Valley Voice Magazine is distributed through 450 + select locations throughout the Cowichan Valley- Malahat, Mill Bay, Shawnigan Lake, Cherry Point, Duncan, Cowichan Bay, Crofton, Chemainus and Salt Spring Island and to Cowichan Lake, Ladysmith, Victoria, Parksville and Courtenay.

Interested in marketing your business in the Valley Voice each month? Learn more about

how your business can be featured in our pages! call 250 746 9319 / text 250 709-8846 info@cowichanvalleyvoice.com 4

OUR COMMUNITY April Events 5 Happy Earth Day! 9 Easter at the Hub 29 Plentifill 35 Consuming Consciously 42 Inside The Waldorf Kindergarten 57 Hybrid vs. Electric vs. Plug-In Hybrid 60 Humanitarian Caravan 70 April Forecasts 77 Directory 78-79 LOCAL FOOD & DRINK Good Advice 14 reFresh Zero Waste Initiative 15 Promise Valley Farm and Creamery Opens 16-17 Japanese Risotto with Sesame, Avocado and Greens Recipe 18 Beyond Bok Choi Asian Greens for the Garden 18-19 Local Wine Pairings 20-21 Ever Wonder What Makes Sparkling Wines so Special? 22-23 Local Delicious Easter 24-27 Fresh Mango Salsa 28 What’s in a Cup Of Tea? 38 Cowichan Oyster Festival 39 Guide to Local Wine and BC Oysters 40 HOME, FARM & GARDEN Rhododendrons and Understory Planting 43 Get (Veggie) Started 44 What is the Soil Food Web and How can we Support it? 45 Get Gardening with the Cowichan Farm & Food Hub 46 Canada Greener Homes Grant 48-49 Going Solar, How it Works 50-51 The Plastic Dilemma: Sorting it out 52-53 A Peek Into Garden House 54 Is Now a Good Time to Buy or Sell a Home? 72 LOCAL ARTS & MUSIC The Tradition of Pysanky 12 Cowichan Valley Arts Council 13 Artist Margot Page 20 Flutes in the Forest Event 29 New CVCAS board roles up its sleeves 30 Male Nudes Soleil Mannion at Excellent Frameworks 32 Nature and Humanity Works by Sue A. Miller & Aleksandra Kalinic 33 BODY, MIND & SOUL Detox 101 18 Where Do We Go From Here 34 Let’s Talk Makeup and Sustainability 36 Featuring Better Cotton Initiative Fashions at Fabrications 37 Nuts’amaat Syaays–Working Together As One 47 Airbags and Hearing Damage 61 Just Another Indian A Serial Killer and Canada’s Indifference 62 Five Little Indians by Michelle Good 63 Black Seed Oil- The Universal Healer 64 Screen Time 65 Honouring How We Feel… 66 Contributing to Positive Social Change 68 A Beginner’s Guide to Choosing Crystals 74 PETS, RECREATION & NATURE 10 Things To Know Now About the Six Mountains of North Cowichan 7 Hike to the Big Trees 10 The Secret Life of Trees 11 Learn to Bowl 55 Flatworms in Cowichan Bay 58 Discovering the Deep: Life in our Last Wilderness 59 Lucky Dog: I got a new dog 73 Cut Broom in Bloom 76

APRIL EVENTS

1 Island Visions: The Art of Robert Sears, Cowichan Valley Arts Council Annex, 2687 James St., Duncan until 04/14 FREE

Campbell, Angela Andersen, 12 -12:30 PM Cowichan Valley Arts Council Gallery 2687 James St. FREE

1-8 Registration open for Spring Fine Arts Show, Cowichan Valley Arts Council https:// cowichanvalleyartscouncil.ca/ fine-arts-show/

9 Tony Turner CFG Coffeehouse 7pm Duncan United Church Hall 246 Ingram Street www.cowichanfolkguild.ca

2 Sense of Place: Landscape art from Rory MacDonald, Sharron Campbell, Nana Goodship, Angela Andersen and Peter Spohn. 2687 James St., Duncan until 04/30 3 Times They Are A Changing 11-3pm Heritage Museum 2851 Church Way, Mill Bay millbaymalahathistory.com also 04/10/17/24 4 Discovering the Deep Life in our Last Wilderness 9:30am Cowichan Valley Naturalists Zoom cvns@naturecowichan.net 5 Opening Sense of Place: Landscape art, meet the artists 4- 7 pm. Cowichan Valley Arts Council Gallery FREE 6 & 7 Artist tour, Sense of Place: Landscape painting, w/ Nan Goodship and Peter Spohn 04/07 Rory MacDonald, Sharron

10 Cowichan Folk Guild AGM 1pm Providence Farm Dining Room 1843 Tzouhalem Rd, Duncan cowichanfolkguild.ca 11 Elder College: Yoga and Meditation for Seniors with Saroj Sund Mondays April 11-May 16 10-11am. Registration (250)7487529

17 Easter at the Hub Fair Event Live Music Easter Egg Hunt Pancake Breakfast 10-2pm 2375 Koksilah Rd, Duncan cowichanhub.ca 18 Art Odyssey for Kids, Mondays 3:45-4:45 pm, Cowichan Valley Arts Council, ages 9-13 Register online 18-22 5-Day Mask-carving course w/Alert Bay carver Rupert Scow, Cowichan Valley Arts Council Studio $300 19 Behavior Change for Conservation 7:30pm Cowichan Valley Naturalists Zoom cvns@naturecowichan.net

13 Raising Protagonists for Social Change Spiritual Upliftment and Conversation 3 Baha’i friends 7:15-8:30pm Call for details Laurice Tim & Lee 250 748 2585

21 The Lure of Paris Elder College 10-12pm 250 758 7529 Runs to 05/26

13 Heart Berries: A Memoir 5-7pm Warmland Book & Film Collective Zoom WarmlandBFC@ gmail.com

22 & 23 Cherry Point Artists Art Show & Sale 10-6pm St. Peter’s Church 5800 Church Rd, Duncan

16 Warmland Calligraphers, Cowichan Valley Arts Council Annex until 04/30 FREE

22 Happy Earth Day!

23 Promise Valley Farm & Creamery Grand Opening Event 10-4:30PM Vendors, Guernsey lattes, Farm Tours 11am & 1:30pm 7088 Richards Trail Duncan 23 Spring Birding by Ear Elder

College 8:30-11:30am 250 758 7529 23 Gounod’s Mass to St. Cecilia Cowichan Consort Orchestra & Choir 7:30pm Christian Reform Church 930 Trunk Rd $20 24 Chemainus Classical Concerts Pianists Ann Mendenhall Catharina de Beer Emily Armour & Rykie Avenant 2pm St. Michael’s Church 2858 Mill St $25/$10 250 748 8383 24 Native American Flutes in the Forest 1-3pm rommyflutes@shaw. ca FREE 27 Raising Protagonists for Social Change Part 2 Spiritual Upliftment & Conversation 3 Baha’i friends 7:15-8:30pm call for details Laurice Tim & Lee 250 748 2585 28 Waldorf Early Childhood Education 8-9PM Zoom Lecture swpa@sunrisewaldorfschool.org 30 Ben Sures Live in the Chapel 7pm Providence Farm 1843 Tzouhalem Rd, Duncan www.cowichanfolkguild.ca $20/$25 30 Silk painting workshop 10 am–4pm. Cowichan Valley Arts Council Studio $90

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forests. Logging values ranked near the bottom of the list.

(9) A few individuals are spreading false formation about the forest consultation, including the suggestion our taxes have been going up.

Know that the forestry reserve fund is covering lost revenue and will continue to do so this year. But it’s incumbent on council to finish the consultation and adopt a new forest plan during this term of office.

10 Things To Know Now About the Six Mountains of North Cowichan Larry Pynn is a veteran environmental journalist who lives in Maple Bay.

(1) The Six Mountains are an unofficial, popular name for North Cowichan’s 5,000-hectare Municipal Forest Reserve. Six Mountains more accurately captures the geographical landmarks that define our sense of place, and include Mt. Prevost, Mt. Sicker, Mt. Richards, Maple Mt., Mt. Tzouhalem and Stoney Hill.

(2) For decades, successive councils have commercially logged the Six Mountains.

Decisions about our forests have been made by a few individuals, with no formal public consultation process.

Not surprisingly, many citizens knew little or nothing about the municipal forest reserve — including that it is their forest and unique in Canada.

(3) All that began to change after the October 2018 municipal election. Residents led by Where Do We Stand organized in opposition to the advance of municipal clearcutting and requested a say in the forest’s future. More than 1,500 signed a petition calling for a pause in logging; hundreds of citizens packed a council meeting in December 2018.

(4) Two months later, in February 2019, council voted to place a moratorium on new logging pending a public consultation. Conservation momentum was building.

In March 2019, Where Do We Stand filled the 700-seat

Cowichan Performing Arts Centre with people eager to learn more about their forests from some of BC’s top forest experts.

(5) Covid-19 hit and in March 2020 council suspended the public consultation for 90 days, later extended to allow parallel, closed talks with local First Nations, a lengthy suspension that resulted in a Memorandum of Understanding signed in August 2021 (https://bit. ly/3pB2d8w). North Cowichan and First Nations agreed in the MOU to meet within two weeks of the signing, but the first meeting was not held until Feb. 28.

(6) Sixty-three percent of the trees logged in the Six Mountains are exported as raw logs, and the last two logging companies to operate here were based in Campbell River and Nanaimo. North Cowichan estimates logging in the forest reserve creates 10 to 12 direct full-time jobs — sometimes less — which includes a municipal forester, forest technician, and secretarial staff.

(7) The Six Mountains overlap the coastal-Douglas fir forest, the most at-risk forest type in the province. That statement is

supported by the BC Ministry of Forests as a member of a coalition of governmental and non-governmental organizations (but not North Cowichan) trying to save these forests. (www.cdfcp.ca) One report for North Cowichan estimates 141 species at risk.

Our old-growth is long gone.

(8) The first results of the pubic consultation by Lees & Associates released in February 2022 showed overwhelming support for conservation.

Citizens value water quality, recreation, habitat, ecology, viewscapes, old forests, tourism and cultural/spiritual use of the

(10) Now is the time to learn more about your forest, and focus on the final critical months ahead. The UBC Partnership Group — UBC forestry, 3Green Tree Consulting, and Coastal Douglas-Fir Conservation Partnership — will be presenting forest management options soon for your consideration, including the sale of carbon credits as a way to generate revenue from a standing forest. Stay tuned.

Become engaged.

Visit https://bit.ly/3J976wt, wheredowestand.ca, sixmountains.ca. (sixmountains.ca photo of Bonsall Creek watershed)

Sands Funeral Chapel

Cremation & Reception Centre-Duncan

by Arbor Memorial

Janice Winfrey Funeral Director

tel: 250-746-5212 • fax:250-746-7034 sandsfuneral.com/duncan email:sandsduncan@arbormemorial.com 187 Trunk Road, Duncan, British Columbia V9L 2P1

Trial By Fire Pottery Studio 2 Week Wheel Classes

Hilary Huntley

www.trialbyfirepottery.ca I 250-710-8758 www.trialbyfirepottery.ca 7

The Six Mountains Animal Forest Campaign

PLAY YOUR PART TO PROTECT THE NORTH COWICHAN SIX MOUNTAINS FROM CLEARCUTTING TZOUHALEM, PREVOST, MAPLE, RICHARDS, SICKER, STONEY HILL

video on www.wheredowestand.ca 8

Happy Earth Day!

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wo terms have recently entered my lexicon: solastalgia and pre-traumatic stress disorder. Solastalgia was coined by environmental philosopher Glenn Albrecht.

The term combines the words ‘solace’ (comfort in a time of distress) and ‘nostalgia’ (sentimentality for the past; a yearning for home): the suffix -algia is from the Greek algos, meaning pain. Solastalgia describes a feeling that many of us now experience in the era of the climate crisis: the distress we feel in the loss of our home; the loss of the environment in which we used to find solace; a longing for the homeland that has disappeared.

Historically ‘the future’ has represented positive promise: better days ahead. In the age of environmental crisis, the future increasingly represents tragedy and loss. Researchers have used terms like ‘ecoanxiety’ and ‘pre-traumatic stress disorder’ to describe these feelings of grief for the future.

The grief we feel for the earth as we see the growing impacts of climate change on our fellow humans and the non-humans with whom we share this planet is real and profound. When I see the cedar trees flagging, then dying, I feel a deep sense of sadness and loss.

These feelings are amplified and the distress is made worse when society and those in positions of power reflect back to us the opposite of what we see and are experiencing. A

“climate plan” can’t be a communications exercise that justifies the expansion of fracking and fossil fuel infrastructure. It must be a clear path to moving us away from dependence on fossil fuels, and a roadmap to achieving food security, water security, and distributed clean energy.

A climate plan needs to also recognize that we need each other, and that we must envision and articulate a future that puts health and well-being – of individuals, ecosystems, and communities – as outcomes.

Rather than putting the onus on individuals to buy an Electrical Vehicle or install a heat pump, we need a plan that recognizes how much further collective efforts can take us on this essential journey toward a livable, healthy future. For me, examples of collective action – from food forests to the efforts of Fatima de Silva and her team at Nourish Cowichan – are the antidote to grief.

This Earth Day (April 22), let us celebrate our local farmers, our watershed and ecosystem protectors, the organizations that support people and families, and all those who put their time and energy into making our community, and our world better.

Sonia Furstenau, MLA for Cowichan Valley, 250 715-2792 Sonia.Furstenau.

MLA@leg.bc.ca

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We recommend having a look at the park map and following the trails along the river for the best opportunity to see some of these big giants. These trails meander along the river with fern covered forest floors and mossy wooden boardwalks. This park offers a great picnic area as well as a family playground.

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DRUM KIT AND HAND PERCUSSION LESSONS 35+ years experience- Private / One 2 One / Customized / Fun

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Hike to the Big Trees 1. Koksilah Ancient Forest is off the beaten path past the Village of Shawnigan Lake. Here you will find a small grove of old growth Douglas Fir standing along the Koksilah River. It is approximately a 2-kilometre hike and is described as easy to moderate. Travel to Shawnigan Lake Village and follow Renfrew Road going west. This road will take you past the Kinsol Trestle turn off as well as Koksilah Provincial Park. Go up Kapoor Hill logging road and just before the 8 km marker is a recommended parking area. It is a remote location and can be somewhat difficult to find. We recommend you be prepared and stop in at the Cowichan Regional Visitor Centre for a map of this area.

Gift Baskets Meat & Cheese Platters Gourmet Foods Italian Imports Take Home and Serve

2. Bright Angel Park in Cowichan Station has several big trees tucked away off the walking paths. This lovely family type park is located off Koksilah Road. It offers several trails and picnic areas to enjoy. To find the big trees cross over the suspension bridge and start the trail to the right for approximately 10 metres. There are a couple of small paths that lead up left towards the train tracks and you will find these bigger Douglas Firs in this area.

This area was heavily flooded during the winter rains and the trails may still be damaged.

3. Glenora Trailhead Park is a wonderful walk amongst nature.

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4. Cowichan Lake Research Station located at 7060 Forestry Rd in Mesachie Lake is a large government forestry research centre past Lake Cowichan and is a perfect opportunity to see many different species of trees such as Western Hemlock, Pacific Silver Fir, Grand Fir and several others. There is a small grove of old-growth Douglas Fir along the trails. We also have some maps of the centre so stop by and pick one up. Contact them for hours 1.250.749.6811 Ext 21 5. Honeymoon Bay Ecological Reserve located on South Shore Road in Honeymoon Bay is approximately 2.5 kilometres west of the Village of Lake Cowichan. This is a special 15acre park with one of the largest displays of rare pink fawn lilies and also has a beautiful display of many other wild flowers. As you meander through the forest you will get to enjoy some spectacular old growth trees through out the forest.

6. Eves Provincial Park on Westholme Road in Westholme is truly a hidden secret. This is a 45-acre park and with easy to moderate trails. Enjoy a walk through the forests and along the bluffs and take in some of the amazing Douglas Firs. There is also a snippet of an old train track that use to carry copper from the surrounding mines to Crofton.

Places that also need mentioning that are not in the Cowichan Valley are Goldstream Provincial Park, Avatar Grove near Port Renfrew and Cathedral Grove near Port Albern Patty Abbott, Visitor Coordinator Cowichan Valley Regional Centre

another ring of growth within the grain. In some species of tree you can read the radial grain rings and see when we may have had a particularly wet Spring with pronounced growth.

The work we do helps preserve trees at the end of their lifecycle into cherished heirloom pieces. A BigLeaf maple will grow to 120-150 years and begin to decay, become unstable and get taken down and it is in this process that I have witnessed the depth of value that trees provide. I’ve seen families cry for the loss of a tree that held dear memories, I’ve seen 80 different artisans use every piece of a single tree to create an art exhibit of economic and sustainable impact and I’ve seen the last leftover pieces of this same wood provide heat for homes and nourishment for garden beds.

The Secret Life of Trees

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aving worked with Live Edge Design in Duncan for the last 16 years, I’ve come to understand a little about the life of trees and a whole lot about their value.

Live Edge refers to the living part of the tree, its outermost layer of fibrous wood before you reach the bark, the layer that acts as a straw and draws water from the earth and brings the tree ‘life’. It is this curvaceous edge that inspired the creation of a local furniture company in 2006 and continues to inspire a line of West Coast furniture and the artisans who work with the trees.

If you have an interesting tree tale, a maple in need of a new lease of life or tree knowledge you’d like to share, I’d love to hear from you; donna@liveedgedesign.com

When working with clients I enjoy reading the story within the grain detail of the wood.

Closely knit, darker areas of grain beside a knot can tell you which way a tree grew and how much weight it was bearing in that branch.

The title of this piece ‘The Secret Life of Trees’ is also a book by Colin Tudge exploring trees around the globe; how they live and why they matter. www.penguin.com.au/ books/the-secret-life-oftrees-9780141012933

At this time of year trees all around us are busy carrying sap through their fibrous cambium layers, encouraging

Donna Shaw, MA Live Edge Design

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P Music Education Specialist VOICE & PIANO

Kathy Lassche 250.709.2541 www.mulberrylanemusic.com

ysanka is the decoration of eggs in the ancient Ukrainian wax resist method.

The name derives from the word pysaty which means ‘to write’. This tradition has been passed down through the generations for more than 2000 years to mark the renewal of nature and life in the spring.

The Tradition of Pysanky

Beeswax is heated by candle in a type of stylus called a kistka, and the designs are written onto the egg with intention of goodwill and fortune toward the recipient of this special gift. The egg is then dipped into coloured dyes and alternatly preserved by more layered wax designs until the process is complete. The wax can then be melted and wiped away to reveal the multicolored designs, before it is varnished and blown out to empty the contents.

Early dyes were made from natural substances, such as tree bark, onion skins, deer horns, walnut, berries, seeds or moss.

These days they are easier to prepare from kits that can be bought from craft supply stores and come in a wide verity of colours.

There are many beliefs in the Pysanky tradition, some of which persist today. Eggs were believed to hold great power. An egg decorated with a chicken might be gifted to a newly married couple in hopes it would aid fertility. An egg gifted to a farmer might have wheat and rake designs to bring a bountiful harvest. Poppies are a most beloved Ukrainian design that represent love, beauty and wisdom. Darker colours were usually preserved for older recipients, while mostly white and lighter designs for children.

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Decorated eggs were also thought to protect a home from fire, promote good health, control the weather and prevent evil spirits from doing mischief.

Today the tradition persists and grows, passed down from grandparents to grandchildren who preserve this knowledge.

The symbols continue to evolve to include religious and geographic influences, but the underlying purpose remains the same. The pysanka is a talisman of love and good wishes toward family and friends.

Haley Godolphin Pysanky artist in the Cowichan Valley www.cowichanpysanky@gmail.com

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ory MacDonald was always captivated by the vistas while hiking in the Rockies near his former Alberta home. Now living in Duncan, and a member of the Federation of Canadian Painters, he likes to paint the forgotten parts of the landscape: the creekside tangles, and the interplay of dark and light.

CALL TO ARTISTS:

Landscapes aren’t just the background in our next Gallery and Annex shows. In fact, rocks and trees are the main characters the Sense of Place (April 2- April 30) show, featuring works by MacDonald and four other outstanding landscape artists: Angela Andersen, Nan Goodship, Sharron Campbell and Peter Spohn. “The sky is never just a negative space,” Mt Tzouhalem with Fall Foliage, oil, 30x36, by Peter Spohn

The group will be holding an art opening April 5 and lunchtime artist tours on April 6 and 7.

(April 16-30) group is always well attended. The talented artisans turn penmanship and poetry into visual art in these very collectible pieces.

Cowichan Valley Fine Arts Show Register now until April 9 for the largest nonjuried art show on Vancouver Island. Cash prizes this year, so don’t miss out.

Events include a buyer’s preview, a Mother’s Day tea and an Art Attack social event that transforms painting into performance art.

The Fine Arts Show runs from May 5 to 29.

Island Visions (March 31 to April 14 in the Annex) features magical realist work by Robert Sears, who grew up in New York and now lives in Cowichan Girls in the Rain, acrylic, by Robert Sears Bay. His work is inspired by Japanese realists said Spohn, who previously Hiroshige and Hokusai, taught at Sunrise Waldorf woodblock prints and the School with his wife, (Nan Goodship) and now paints full everyday scenes depicted. time. “Its tones and character The spring show by the instigate the mood of the Warmland Calligraphers whole painting.”

About Us CVAC operates two community art galleries, hosting up to 30 shows annually at its art space in the Cowichan Community Centre in Duncan. Founded in 1971, CVAC programs workshops for youth and adults in its studio space. 2687 James Street, Duncan www.cowichanvalleyartscouncil.ca 13

Good Advice “Do you kids have any idea...?”

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o us city folks, newly arrived in the valley, he looked like your typical

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farmer. Sort of like the one in the egg marketing board ads—only not nearly as friendly.

Grumpy expression, furrowed face from years sitting atop a tractor in the sun.

Cat Diesel Power ballcap, lumberjack jacket, grubby jeans.

Just the kind of guy you’d expect to have a word or two of advice for these city people who come out to the country to try their hand at farming.

“Do you kids have any idea...?” Our heads dropped perceptively—we knew what was coming. We had already heard various versions of it many times before we moved out here. Do you have any

idea what you’re doing?

Do you have any idea how difficult farming is? Do you know what farmers earn?

to a great arborist--was our introduction to the spirit of community that lives at the Duncan Farmer’s Market.

We were at the DFM adjudication meeting and had introduced ourselves and the farm we had just bought: a beautiful sloping eight and a half acres with a pond, a huge rhubarb patch, a massive grape vine pulling down the fence by the house and an orchard of ancient trees, ten years neglected. Apple, plum and pear. We were in love with the new adventure we were on! Now this old timer was going to take us down a notch.

Eleven years on, our stall has been there just about every Saturday from April to Christmas. The vendors are like a big family (including that old guy!). I know that when I arrive for our first market of the season on April 2nd my friend Kathy in the next stall will give me a big hug and declare, like she does every spring, “The band’s back together!” Anybody who comes regularly is part of that family too, celebrating weekly the joy of community surroundedby good art, good music and good food.

“Do you have any idea... how much fruit you can get from those old apple trees?

With a good pruning they can be brought back into prime production you know!”

That advice—plus a referral

Cam, Ol’ MacDonald Farm, Duncan Farmer’s Market macdonaldcam@ gmail.com

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bring their own container instead, or use one of our free containers.

he image of a zero-waste lifestyle is usually a picture perfect snapshot of an influencer with expensive reusable cotton tote grocery bags, shopping for organic foods at local farmers’ markets. This type of sustainability adds up, and can seem to be a luxury beyond the reach of many of us, who are primarily focused on trying to put food on the table. These days, there are lots of unnecessary barriers to sustainable living, capitalized by marketing and PR initiatives of expensive ‘sustainable’ brands.

In the face of the climate crisis, we can’t afford to have these sorts of barriers to sustainable living. Climate change can feel like a far-away issue, something that can be tossed aside when more pressing issues are at hand – but it’s not. In fact, we’re feeling the effects of the climate crisis right in the here and now.

This past year, BC experienced scorching heat domes that claimed the lives of 600 people.

Wildfires ravaged much of the interior, and five months later, those same areas were completely under water amid unprecedented flooding.

Incorporating sustainability and mindful consumer practices into our daily lives is something that everyone can do, and it’s often not as picture perfect

Through this initiative, we are working to combat the excessive plastic packaging waste by major grocery stores. In Canada, we produce a whopping 3.25 million tonnes of plastic waste each year, with a large chunk of that being attributed to food and beverage packaging. The most unsettling part is that plastic takes up to 500 years to break down, meaning that every piece of plastic that’s ever been created is still here.

reFresh Zero Waste Initiative as Instagram makes it out to be. Wearing the same pair of perfectly fine jeans (albeit perhaps slightly faded or with small holes) for years instead of buying new ones, or reusing empty yogurt containers instead of purchasing new plastic tupperware, are all ways in which we can reduce our impact, even if

not the most photogenic.

These are conversations we’re constantly having at reFRESH Marketplace. Here, we give a second chance to produce and other items that have been salvaged from local grocery stores in the Cowichan Valley that would otherwise be sentenced to the dumpster. We do our best to ensure that price is not a major barrier to accessing nutritious food, offering low-cost goods and a coupon program that enables 120 individuals and families to access $25 of free groceries each week.

A few months ago we launched the reTHINK Zero Waste initiative, featuring a wide range of affordable pantry staples prepackaged in mason jars. The price includes a $2 jar deposit, but to ensure this isn’t a barrier, customers are also encouraged to

Of course, this is only one part of the battle. System change is the most important thing. Effective policies need to be created at the government level and major manufacturers and retailers need to implement sustainable practices. Realistically, it’s going to take a lot more than mason jars and reusable totes to tackle climate change and the massive patches of plastic that are polluting our oceans. While the burden of living sustainably is often placed on the individual consumer, the possibility of real systemic change lies in the hands of governments, policymakers, and large corporations.

Climate change is frightening, and the thought of tackling it as one individual is daunting. But through this initiative, reFRESH Marketplace is trying to show that we do all have agency in this – individual choices are important and can create ripple effects, and something as simple as opting for packaging-free goods can be an act of resistance in a world in which everything is wrapped in plastic. reFresh Cowichan Marketplace 360 Duncan St, Duncan

Dorothy Settles (she/her) reFRESH Marketplace Intern, Cowichan Green Community

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D

airy farmers Mark and Caroline Nagtegaal of Promise Valley Farm and Creamery are up to something so brand new, you might think it was old-fashioned. With a dozen Guernsey cows milked twice daily in their Richard’s Trail barn parlour, Promise Valley is processing and selling whole milk and cream-top yogurt right from the farm.

Guernsey milk is a rarity in Canada yet has a taste like no other: rich and simple, with a creamy golden hue made lush from beta carotene. Besides, it’s full of A2/A2 proteins that many people are able to digest and tolerate better than A1 milks.

Promise Valley Farm and Creamery Opens

But that’s not all. Promise Valley Farm and Creamery is in the final stretch to become certified organic — which will make their little creamery the first of its type on the island, soon.

Speaking of firsts, let’s talk about their milk dispensary that looks like a lonely, albeit sanitary vending machine stuck inside a walk-in closet.

But looks aren’t everything!

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This one is a fountain of flavour, containing a single, pure ingredient - whole, cold, pasteurized Guernsey milk.

Three loonies (coins, debit or credit) fills a litre bottle that can be purchased at the farm store, five steps away. You don’t have to buy that sturdy milk bottle with the Promise Valley logo on it, but it’s recommended, since it’s yours to empty, wash and bring back to refill at the dispensary as many times as store hours allow, from 10 am to 5 pm,

promise to treat their cattle with care and respect, steward their land with organic and regenerative practices and provide nourishing whole food to the community.

“We are going back in time, deliberately,” says Mark.

“We ask you to put your trust in us and in return, you’ll know where your food comes from.”

Tuesday through Saturday.

In contrast to the dispensary, the farm store is hands down stylin’. Bright and clean, sparkling with wood shelving and floors, it features a wall of refrigerated 750g containers of cream top yogurt in three varieties Balkan (plain), Honey and Vanilla Bean. Balkan contains just two pure ingredients: whole milk and probiotic bacterial culture. Honey is locally sourced and Vanilla Bean is made with extract.

Both of these flavoured yogurts are lightly sweetened and all three varieties have a blanket of buttery, golden cream resting on the surface.

The Guernsey girls at Promise Valley live a clean and good life, situated as they are in a sprawling, emerald green valley framed by Mount Richard and Sicker. The surrounding rolling hills are theirs to munch on this Spring, covered with an abundant carpet of grass, fescue and legumes. The seasons impact their bovine diet and the fat level in their milk ranges from 4.5 to 5.5 %. Numbers like these surprise some consumers and delight others who understand how healthful this type of good-for-you fat is.

On the farm store wall hangs “Our Mission Statement” in which the Nagtegaals

selfie and hope you’ll enjoy a perfect glass of cold Guernsey milk, or bowl of cream-top yogurt when you’re back home.

Madeleine Greey is a cookbook author, baker and blogger at MadoFood.com.

Saturday April 23 Promise Valley Farm and Creamery (7088 Richard’s Trail) will hold a Grand Opening to their farm store and dispensary, featuring an array of local vendor tents outside.

Animal lovers won’t want to miss the two guided tours to be conducted that day, allowing young and old to come face-toface with some of the most docile, lovable cows on the island, be it Martha, Begonia or Tabitha.

All of these cows are ready for a 17

Upcoming Events April 23rd Shellfish Dinner Sunday April 17 Wild Food and Morels For full details visit www.deerholme.com Class I

BY RESERVATION ONLY

4830 Stelfox Rd, Duncan

For ReservationS 250 748 7450 Japanese Risotto With Sesame, Avocado And Greens Courtesy Bill Jones, Deerholme Farm

Ingredients

2 Tbsp grapeseed oil 2 cups sushi rice 1 Tbsp garlic, minced 1 cup mushrooms, diced 1 cup white wine (or sake) 4 cups chicken (or vegetable) stock 2 cups mixed greens (mizuna, shungiku, yu choy, etc) 1 Tbsp Japanese soy sauce 2 Tbsp butter (optional) Salt and pepper to taste 1 avocado, peeled, seeded and diced 2 Tbsp toasted sesame seeds 1 green onion, finely minced 2 Tbsp shredded nori (seaweed) Method In a heavy saucepan, add the oil and rice. Heat over mediumhigh heat until the rice turns translucent and begins to stick to the bottom. Add the garlic and mushrooms and stir until warmed through. Add the white wine and cook until it is almost evaporated. Add the stock, 1 cup at a time, and stir frequently until the liquid is almost evaporated. Reduce heat if it cooks too quickly. Continue with the remaining stock.

Cook until the liquid is almost absorbed and the rice is softened but still with a little bite in the centre. Add the greens, soy and butter (if used). Stir to mix and season well with salt and pepper. Transfer to serving bowls and top with the avocado, sesame seeds, green onion and nori. Serve warm as a starter or main dish, great with grilled salmon.

•Functional Medicine and Nutrition Consultations •Lab Assessments/Education •Individualized Lifestyle and Wellness Plans 250-931-0012 sageheartnutrition@gmail.com www.sageheartnutrition.wordpress.com 18

Detox 101 The What, Why and How of Cleansing

P

erhaps some of you have considered doing a detox in the past but you weren’t sure how to go about it or whether it was right for you.

Essentially a detox or cleanse is the process whereby we aim to clear the body of all those toxins that have been building up over the years. While we actively try to eliminate the toxins stored in our body we are also looking to reduce our toxic intake by eating whole foods (or drinking only juices – depending on what type of cleanse you are doing) Finally, it is a time where we allow our mind and body to rest and heal.

Some types of cleanses include: Water fasts, juice fasts, and whole foods cleanses.

It is important to go at your own pace and listen to your body.

Detox programs can vary in length as well as the degree to which you limit your food and drink intake. The choice is yours but the important thing to remember is that you must listen to your body and go at your own pace. If you have never done a cleanse before then I suggest you begin with a clean diet approach.

Eliminate all processed foods and see how much better you feel. After that, perhaps you can try a 1-2 day juice cleanse and see how that goes. And perhaps a few months later, a longer water fast may seem more appropriate for you.

Spring and fall are generally considered to be good times for cleansing.

Who should be cautious with fasting/detox?

Anyone suffering from or diagnosed with: chronic fatigue low immunity heart problems low blood pressure

cancer peptic ulcers diabetes / hypoglycemia Detoxification is also not appropriate for women who are pregnant or nursing, anyone who will be undergoing surgery or recovering from surgery as well as anyone who is severely underweight or malnourished.

Some symptoms we can expect during cleansing include: Headache Fatigue/irritability Increased sensitivity, especially o noise Coating on tongue Skin odour or eruptions Digestive upset, mucuscontaining stools, flatulence, nausea Insomnia Hunger usually subsides after 2-3 day If you feel the symptoms are too strong, you may be detoxing too quickly and not eliminating quickly enough. A word of caution: It is very important during any cleanse to ensure good bowel function before you begin but also throughout the cleanse. And if you are fasting, ensure you are drinking plenty of water, preferably with a pinch of salt.

Overall, I believe everyone can benefit from cleansing as a preventative approach to staying healthy.

You can book a consultation with Silvia at sageheartnutrition@ gmail.com or visit her website at sageheartnutrition. wordpress.com Silvia Graber, Registered Nutritionist and Functional Medicine Practitioner specializing in digestion and mental health.

Shanghai bok choy

Beyond Bok Choi - Asian Greens for the Garden

F

lipping through the seed catalogue I see a growing trend is the increase in the number of Asian greens available for local gardeners. We have grown many varieties for years and I have often wondered why more of these amazing edibles are not available in our local farmers markets.

To get the best of these greens you have to move beyond the generic bok choy found in most of our supermarkets. Not that there is anything wrong with a good choy (particularly the baby varieties). It is like any vegetable – it suffers from increasing the distance from garden to table.

A boy choy from the garden is sweet, crunchy and aromatic.

From the produce isle it is often bruised, watery, starchy and bland. If you search you will find there is a vast world of choices out there that go beyond the limited offerings in the supermarket.

Here are five greens outstanding Asian greens you should explore in your garden: Gai Lan. This is a dark green stemmed plant that is sometimes called Chinese Broccoli. I think it has very little in common with broccoli (other than both being members of the brassica family).

It has a fine firm texture with a slight tinge of bitterness on the finish. It has a fibrous stalk that benefits from being cooked until soft. The Chinese often blanch the stalks and serve with a drizzle of oyster sauce.

Yu Choy. On first glance this vegetables looks very similar to Gai Lan. The stems however will be much more tender and are occasionally hollow.

This plant is sometimes called Chinese flowering cabbage.

It is very delicious and a great addition to both salads and stir-fries. A favourite Chinese preparation is to quickly blanch the stems and toss the leaves in hot oil and garlic.

Tatsoi. This plant is a cousin to Yu Choy but has a distinct round leaf and grows in a pretty rosette form. The taste is mild and the greens are very tender with a subtle mustard bite. We usually use the young leaves in our salad mix where they shine with their beautiful shape, long shelf life and clean fresh flavor. When we have lots, they make an excellent stir-fry or addition to a noodle dish, particularly when there is lots of garlic used.

SALTMARSH GALLERY

CONTEMPORARY PHOTOGRAPHY abstract I representational I modern

2190 Cowichan Bay Rd. Cowichan Bay I 250 597 8037

www.lukedowns.ca

Shungiku. It is often called Edible Chrysanthemum. This is another plant that is easy to grow and tastes fantastic in a salad or stir fired as a green. The shungiku likes our cool local climate and makes a welcome addition to our meals almost on a year round basis. It is particularly great chopped up in rice dishes and rich in vitamins, minerals and antioxidants.

Mizuna I love this vegetable. It has a beautiful shape, a nice mild peppery flavor and is versatile as a salad green or a cooking green.

Mizuna also grows like a weed in our garden and seems to be very happy in the Cowichan climate.

When we have a bumper crop we also make a mizuna pesto with olive oil and sunflower seeds.

It is another great source of nutrients and antioxidants.

LOOKING FOR MICROGREENS? Bill Jones is a chef, author and food consultant based at Deerholme Farm.

We grow plenty of them!

A&S MICROGREENS t.250-710-6135 www.asmicrogreens.com 19

LOCAL WINEMAKERS

We had a good run and it was a lot of fun but Saison will not be reopening again.

For 11 seasons, Saison Market provided a place for locals to enjoy housemade breakfast, lunch and an assortment of sweet and savoury treats. The last two years forced us to re-evaluate our business and we have decided to shift our attention to full-time farming instead.

While we will likely continue to offer a small selection of baked goods and garden-fresh produce at our Roadside Farmstand on select weekends, the café will remain closed.

We are fortunate for the opportunity to meet and befriend so many people in the Valley.

Thank you from the bottom of our hearts to our customers for all the wonderful support over the years and to the dedicated and hardworking staff that helped make it all happen. We will remain forever grateful.

Frédéric & Ingrid

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ARTIST MARGOT PAGE ON DISPLAY AT IMAGINE THAT! ARTISANS SMALL WINDOW The beautiful enamel on steel works of Margot Page will be on display in the small window of Imagine That!

Artisans for the month of April.

Entranced by the wildlife she had witnessed from ten years of traveling onboard their sailboat, her inspiration from the natural world can be seen adorned on all of Margot’s art. Great blue heron, black bear, raven, quail, hummingbird and chickadee to name a few completely replaced her earlier figurative drawings from her career as a fashion illustrator in Montreal.

A professional artist for over 50 years, and an acting member of Imagine That! Artisans collective for over 20 years, Margot has chosen to step aside this year to make time for herself and to wind down her studio and practice. She values learning from other skilled artists in the Co-operative and encourages new artists looking for a great community of creative people to get involved. www.imaginethatartisans.com

ROCKY CREEK WINERY

Robin’s Rosé Westcoast Eggs Benny and our rosé for the dry finish with tempranillo, gamay and pinot noir. All varietals complement with the creaminess of the hollandaise.

Salmon and pinot noir are perfect pairings traditionally so it will be superb with the rosé. If that’s too difficult try it also with an omelette using goat cheese and salmon or a quiche. Wonderful cherry notes.

PAIRINGS FOR EASTER BRUNCH

UNSWORTH VINEYARDS

BLUE GROUSE ESTATE WINERY

Charme de l’île Rosé

2021 Quill Rose Frizzante

Sparkling Rosé is the quintessential brunch wine.

Unsworth’s flagship Charme de l’île Rosé is bursting with red berry flavours and aromas and is a fabulous way to start the weekend! The rosé counterpart of our iconic Charme de l’île is packed full of red berries fruit. It is dry on the palate and with smooth persistent bubbles.

Light and spritzy with aromatics of raspberries and strawberries and rhubarb pie on the pallet. Prepared slightly off dry it has balanced acidity and will make your tastebuds dance. Enjoy this sparkle with a smoked salmon omelet, eggs benedict, or oven roasted ham and scalloped potatoes.

SHOP WITH US Tuesday - Friday 11am - 4pm Saturday 10am - 3pm

Imagine That! Artisans’ Designs 251 Craig St., Downtown Duncan

imaginethatartisans.com I 250-748-6776 21

Ever Wonder What Makes Sparkling Wines so Special?

T

he story of 2017 Paula Sparkling began at the Fall Harvest of September 2017. A blended estate ensemble of Pinot Gris, Ortega and Muller-Thurgau and traditional method achieved through riddling and disgorgement.

The individual wine varietal components were fermented and blended together.

The blended wine is put in bottles along with yeast and a small amount of sugar, called the liqueur de tirage, stopped with a crown cap and stored in our wine cellar horizontally for a second fermentation.

The bottles were then laid to rest for 2 years to go through that fermentation process.

The by-product of this fermentation is CO2 which makes up the bubbles!

After about two years in bottle, each individual bottle is agitated and inserted into the riddling racks. The bottles are placed on special racks called pupitres that hold them at a 45° angle, with the crown cap pointed down. Once a day, the bottles are given a slight shake and turn, alternatively on

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right then left, and dropped back into the riddling rack, with the angle gradually increased. The bottles are rotated by stages, 1/4 of a turn at a time, to the right or left, while moving the bottles slowly on point (capsule down), with a paint mark on the bottom of the bottle for reference. The objective is to consolidate the sediments and leave the wine crystal clear. Manual remuage takes 45 days and involves on average 45 turns per bottle.

“This technique was created by Madame Clicquot and used since the 1700’s, it has since had some automation, but the general concept has remained the same since.” Bailey Williamson Next, disgorgement - a traditional method used to remove the lees.

Disgorgement is a technique used in the traditional method of sparkling wine production that involves removing the dead yeast cells (lees) from the neck of the wine bottle after secondary fermentation. Bailey keeps the sparkling wine in a very cold room which will keep the lees intact for removal. Our Paula Sparkling is disgorged by hand by opening the bottle and quickly releasing the sentiment.

After disgorgement, the wine is finished by adding more wine to top up the bottles, this is called dosage. Dosage is some form of sweetness (sugar, or wine

and sugar) added to a wine to balance it out. In the case of our Paula Sparkling, we top it up with no added sweetener, just more wine.

Lastly, the bottles are capped, labeled and ready to be enjoyed! If you are a Blue Grouse Wine club member, you will see a bottle of this wine in your spring package.

“Sparkling wine pairs with all foods, it is very versatile and fun.” Bailey Williamson Enjoy the aromatics of green apple, toast and a bit of earthy mushroom followed by flavours of caramel and creamy lemon curd with fine mousse on the palate.

Wonderfully paired with eggs benedict, oysters, cheese, and sweets.

Look for our new pink sparkling the 2021 Quill Rose Frizzante. Frizzante or semi-sparkling wine, is where the wine is carbonated

and following the formation of bubbles, it is bottled.

Frizzante wine has a pressure of about 2.5 bar, about half the pressure of our Paula Sparkling wine.

Light and spritzy with aromatics of raspberries and strawberries and rhubarb pie on the pallet. Prepared slightly off dry it has balanced acidity and will make your tastebuds dance. Enjoy this sparkle with charcuterie, poultry dishes and or with your loved ones.

JOIN US

Blue Grouse Estate Winery and Vineyard, 2182 Lakeside Road, Duncan Wednesday to Sunday from 11-5pm 250744-3834

Jenny Garlini Head Office Maven Blue Grouse Estate Winery and Vineyard

WEDNESDAY to SATURDAY look for our daily specials on 40 Ingram Street

www.theoldfirehouse.ca

Downtown Duncan

(250) 597-3473

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This year at THE DUNCAN GARAGE CAFE & BAKERY, in order to reduce food waste and guarantee our customers get their delicious products, we are offering our favorite Easter items for pre order only. Our Easter offerings this year include Hot Cross Buns, NGI Hot Cross Buns, Bunny Buns (pictured right) Butter Buns, Wheat vegan pies - Berry, Apple, Strawberry Rhubarb and NGI pies - Berry, Apple, Strawberry Rhubarb All Easter items must be pre orderered to guarantee availability. Easter products are available to order to April 16.

330 Duncan Street, downtown Duncan 250 748-8223.

Enjoy an all fair trade and organic Easter with specialty chocolate from the CHEMAINUS HEALTH FOOD STORE. Featuring solid bunnies, crisped rice and caramel filled bunnies, finely wrapped gift sets and specialty bars from Galerie au chocolat, assorted chocolate Easter eggs from Camino Fair Trade and foil wrapped and naked chocolate bunnies from local company Denman Island Chocolate. Also Easter candy treats from YumEarth like

Fresh baked fruit pies available at Duncan Garage Cafe and Bakery for pre order.

Fair Trade local Denman Island Chocolate Bunny Chemainus Health Food Store

LOCAL DELICIOUS EASTER

that brunch mimosa! The Farm Store at Farm Table Inn is open Wednesdays to Saturdays 10am to 5pm. ( see our website for Easter weekend hours) 6755 Cowichan Lake Road, Lake Cowichan 250-932-3205 www.farmtableinn.ca

gummy fruits and other candies which are NonGmo, vegan, organic, vegan and “allergy free” of soy, egg, dairy, fish, shellfish, peanuts/treenuts, artifical dyes, high fructose. 9738 Willow St, Chemainus, 250 246-9838.

Shop the FARM TABLE INN FARM STORE for Easter Brunch ideas! Farm Fresh eggs, farm raised bacon, sage and ginger sausages, maple honey sausages, bratwurst spinach and cheese quiches, fresh bread, house-made strawberry jam, local honey, our famous Seafood Chowder and other soups such as Borscht, Split Pea and Ham, Vegan Mushroom, desserts like chocolate mousse and don’t forget the bubbles for Quiche from Farm Table Inn Farm Store

Hop on in to Little Bird in downtown Duncan for all your Easter cards, Rogers’ chocolates & gift giving needs!

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Pickles Pantry French Country Terrine

PICKLES PANTRY Add a rustic French Country Terrine to your Easter festivities!

This terrine features duck, pork, toasted hazelnuts, caramelized onions and duck confit and when paired with some fresh bread and grainy mustard will make a lovely addition to any gathering.

Hop Hop! Check out www. picklespantry.ca or visit me at the Duncan Farmers Market every Saturday to get your hands on one!

At LITTLE BIRD GIFT SHOP & GALLERY in beautiful Downtown Duncan we have all your Easter gift giving needs covered!

Come in and pick from our great selection of delicious Rogers’ Chocolates from Victoria, including solid chocolate eggs, caramels, truffles & assorted boxed collections. While you’re in, choose a beautiful Easter themed card or two created by artist’s near & as far away as the United Kingdom. 163 Station Street, Duncan.

FARM TABLE INN RESTAURANT Enjoy a lovely farm to table four course Easter Dinner at the Farm. Friday April 15, Saturday April 16 and Sunday April 17 – first seating time 5pm, Dinner $65 per person plus taxes and gratuities. Optional wine pairing. Reservations are required. 250-932-3205 6755 Cowichan Lake Road, Lake Cowichan www.farmtableinn.ca

True Grain French Croissants

TRUE GRAIN ORGANIC CRAFT BAKERY Hot Cross Buns- the wait is finally over, our most popular Easter treat is back! Easter Bread, A sweet dough with plump juicy organic raisins, the perfect accompaniment to freshly roasted coffee on Easter morning. French Croissants. Organic butter meets BC-grown organic flour to create layers of flaky pastry that will whisk your senses back to Europe.

Cowichan Bay Village Order online: www. truegrain.ca Order by phone: (250) 746-7664 Rogers Chocolates at Little Bird Open: Tuesday - Sunday,

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EASTER FAVOURITES!

True Grain Easter Bread

Hot Cross Buns & Bunny Buns for EVERYONE! Wheat vegan & NGI Fruit Pies. Pre order yours today!

8am - 5pm Open Easter Sun: 8am - 3pm CURE ARTISAN MEAT AND CHEESE is taking orders for bone in and boneless Easter Hams .The hams are produced using BC hormone and antibiotic free meats and cured in a custom brine before being smoked.

These full of flavour hams can be ordered in a variety of sizes to suite your needs. And a foodie favourite; ask to have the crackling left on for an extra little bit of flavour. Also available Smoked turkey breast stuffed sausage stuffing. So you get both white and dark meat. All rolled into A selection of house made condiments are available including grainy beer mustard, red onion jam and smoked onion chutney.

For a quick heat

and serve gourmet brunch pick up, house smoked bacon, Easter Macaroons and sausage rolls. Pre order cheese and charcuterie platter for a great appetizer or a fondue for fun and Easter weekend meals are a breeze.

Order by April 7 for bone in ham and turkey and April 10 for boneless hams. Valley View Centre Lower Level 5-1400 Cowichan Bay road.

250-929-2873.

Celebrate Easter With Our ORGANIC & FAIR TRADE CHOCOLATE We have caramel and rice filled chocolate bunnies, solid bunnies, assorted chocolate eggs, Easter gift boxes, bars and more!

Come in for great natural products, organic produce and so much more!

9738 Willow St, Chemainus 250-246-9838 OPEN Mon-Sat 10-5pm • Sun & Stat holidays Closed 27

DOWNTOWN DUNCAN WALK INS WELCOME

Fresh Mango Salsa

WOMEN I MEN I CHILDREN WASH CUT & BLOW DRY BLOW OUTS • STYLING COLOUR • HI LIGHTS BALAYAGE • PERMS

250 709-2195

261 Craig Street, Downtown Duncan

Recipe courtesy Grant Easterbrook, The Olive Station, 225 Canada Avenue, Downtown Duncan

Ingredients:

1/4 cup Cilantro 1 Jalapeno Pepper Juice from 1 large lime 3 ripe mangoes 1.5 cups ripe pineapple 1 medium red or green bell pepper 1/2 cup red onion 2 tbsp Green Chili Olive Oil (depending on how hot you want it) 2 tbsp Mango Balsamic (or Pineapple balsamic)

Directions

Cut all ingredients up to small pieces Combine ingredients and serve with tortilla chips or crackers. Can also be used to add zip to stews or sauces and gorgeous colour to any charcuterie platter!

Or simply use as a topping for fish dishes and pork chops.

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EASTER SUNDAY AT THE HUB Come join us on Easter Sunday, April 17th from 10am until 2Pm for some egg-cellent family fun. There will be a forest egg hunt for all ages (no need to book time slots this year), you may even spot the a Easter bunny. Eat a Pancake breakfast made fresh on the deck, get your face painted or pet the bunnies in the Easter themed petting zoo. There will also be music, popcorn, crafts and so much more. It’s an amazing, family fair of fun! All the funds raised will be used for our programs and activities at our community run community centre at the hub. If you are interested in volunteering please email mrsdonnashaw@ gmail.com To find out more see cowichanhub.ca

FLUTES IN THE FOREST EVENT Welcome to the fourth “Flutes in the Forest event”.

After all we have been through over the last 2 1/2 years, our souls and spirits are in dire need of feeling at peace. Our bodies need to sit quietly amongst our most amazing trees and absorb the energy from our wonderful natural environment. Listen to sounds that were created long before all this chaos.

Come listen to a variety of Flute Players on Sunday April 24th, 1-3 pm.

Contact Rommy at: rommyflutes@shaw.ca for information and location.

Event is FREE.

Find us at the Duncan Farmer’s Market on Saturdays!

Charcuterie, Grazing Boxes and Entertaining Ideas

www.picklespantry.ca I 250-266-2464 29

A

new Board of Directors was voted in by members of the Chemainus Valley Cultural Arts Society at its March 10 Annual General Meeting.

Bob Johns will be Chair; Bev Knight, Vice Chair; Kathy Wachs, Treasurer; Craig Spence, Membership; Val Bob, First Nations Committee; Craig Harris, Fundraising; Diana Durrand, Rainforest Arts Rep; and Barbara Allen, Accessibility Rep. Those designations are only part of the story, though. Multitasking and hands-on is the order of the day for CVCAS directors.

Bob Johns is taking on the Chair’s role a second time, replacing Bev Knight, who will be Vice Chair. A musician and author, he is a key member of the CVCAS Performance Committee, and founding organizer of the Chemainus Valley Bluegrass Festival, which takes place in July.

Bev Knight heads up the Performance Committee, which is planning an entertaining lineup

New CVCAS board roles up its sleeves at the bandshell this summer, following up on last year’s upbeat musical breaks from COVID isolation. She heads up the Chemainus Blues Festival, also planned for July, and helps with grant writing.

Barbara Allen brings an awareness of the needs of ‘people with different abilities’ to the CVCAS. Events and facilities like the bandshell need to be accessible to fully serve the community, and she will be looking for ways support improved access.

Val Bob represents the First Nations Committee on the Board, presenting the culture and heritage of the Hul’qumi’num Mustimuhw people in the unsurrendered territory of Penelakut Tribe and the neighbouring communities of Halalt, Lyackson, Stz’uminus and Quw’utsun.

Diana Durrand represents Rainforest Arts, a CVCAS venue that showcases visual artists. She organizes the Feature Wall at the gallery, shows that present the works of selected artists through display, videos and articles.

Craig Harris will be reaching

out to potential partners in the business community in his fundraising capacity. He also volunteers at the Rainforest Arts gallery, and takes a lead role maintaining the Waterwheel Park bandshell and setting up for performances.

Craig Spence keeps in touch with the membership and handles communications. He has joined with other writers and poets in the community launching a Writers Forum, a venue where they can share and publish their material.

Kathy Wachs, as well as being Treasurer sits on the CVCAS First Nations and Performance committees. A longstanding member of the Arts Society, she is a past Chair and helps with grant writing. She also volunteers at the Rainforest Arts gallery.

Find out more about how you can help ‘bring the community together through the arts’ by joining and volunteering at CVCAS.ca.

CraigSpenceWriter.ca

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A Thriving Arts and Cultural Community

MALE NUDES Oil Paintings by SOLEIL MANNION Excellent Frameworks

Aeneas, 60” x 48” Oil on canvas by Soleil Mannion

the idolized female nude on its head and became the one with the brush, the artist scrutinizing, making the decisions on how and what is portrayed.

It took me two years to complete 32 paintings. During that time I learned that I had unacknowledged beliefs and preconceived ideas about what it is to be a man.

I learned that I am biased towards stereotypes regarding beauty. And that we all, men and women alike, strive toward unobtainable goals of perfection. Unexpectedly, I also learned that men often do not feel able to express sensuality, sensitivity and vulnerability. And for this, I would like to take the time to thank each and every one of my models for trusting me to express through paint, their vulnerabilities on canvas.

“I still don’t have the words, but the purpose of visual art is to be powerful and emotive with statement. It should transport you from the piece you are looking at to the point of experiencing it.

That is how I paint.” Soleil Mannion Male Nudes is a show that explores the male body and masculine sensuality from the viewpoint of a woman.

I wanted to capture the male body as a tribute to men’s beauty. To do this, I turned the traditional role of the male artist painting 32

Achilles, Oil on Canvas 48”x 36” by Soleil Mannion

Perseus, 60” X 36” Oil on Canvas Soleil Mannion

Soleil Mannion is a Dutchborn Canadian artist. “I began painting in 2006 and have not put down my oil paint brushes since. My paintings capture the beauty and the tension between stillness and movement, balancing between finished and unfinished.

The landscapes and figures invite the viewer into a conversation, a conversation that is intimate and personal.

One that I hope inspires deep feeling. My art is in the

private collections of people from all across the globe.

Soleil Mannion’s Male Nudes run from April 5-24.

Excellent Frameworks Home of the EJ Hughes Gallery, 115 Kenneth Street 250-746-7112 www.excellentframeworks.ca www.ejhughes.ca

APRIL ARTS

NATURE & HUMANITY WORKS BY SUE A. MILLER & ALEKSANDRA KALINIC Aquamaris Art Gallery Growing up in rural Ontario, Sue A. Miller spent most of her time exploring her natural surroundings, the forests, wetlands, and waterways, keenly tuned into the often overlooked magic and interconnected web between nature and humanity.

Inspired by imprints that have influenced her life since childhood, she creates richly textured oil paintings and, through her art, embarks on a personal exploration of that primal connection with a sense of calm, comfortable solitude. Her journey is motivated by the abstracted interplay of environment and metaphors of human existence.

Having studied Fine Art and graduated from Georgian College in Barrie, Ontario in 1986, Sue A. Miller established a steady presence in the Canadian art scene, as a professional artist, art educator and curator.

Now warmly welcomed to Aquamaris, Sue is represented

EXCELLENT FRAMEWORKS & EJ HUGHES GALLERY

Hovering, Oil on Wood Cradle (Framed), 20” x 20” by Sue A. Miller

AQUAMARIS ART GALLERY

by art galleries in Ontario and British Columbia. Her work is held in private collections across North America, Europe and Japan.

Award winning artist Aleksandra Kalinic delivers music for the eyes with playful light, glorious colours, and rich textures. In eloquentt impressionist brush strokes, she masterfully captures slice of life moments and universal themes centered on our humanity. In her “Self-Portrait” Aleksandra celebrates the art of portraiture by rendering her likeness using colours that convey confidence, elegance and passion.

April 5-24 Original oil paintings Male Nudes

by Soleil Mannion Excellent FrameWorks is Downtown Duncan’s premiere custom framing gallery. We feature reproductions

by EJ Hughes as well as original art by BC Artists. 115 Kenneth St., downtown Duncan 250-746-7112 excellentframeworks.ca

Self-Portrait, Oil on Board (Framed), 16” x 12” by Aleksandra Kalinic

Aquamaris Art Gallery Upstairs in the historic Duncan Garage Building Suite 202 330 Duncan Street April Hours: Tuesday Saturday 10am-4:00pm 250- 597-2798 aquamarisartgallery.com

The arrival of spring coincides with many new arrivals in our gallery. From small gift size items to large statement paintings, we are here to assist you with selecting the perfect pieces for your intended setting and occasion. April hours: Tuesday - Saturday 10 am - 4:00 pm Suite 202-330 Duncan St. Downtown Duncan 250-597-2798 aquamarisartgallery.com

VISIT THESE DOWNTOWN DUNCAN GALLERIES Excellent Frameworks Home of the EJ Hughes Gallery 115 Kenneth St, Duncan 250-746-7112 excellentframeworks.ca ejhughes.ca

Aquamaris Art Gallery in the historic Duncan Garage Building Suite 202 - 330 Duncan Street 250-597-2798 aquamarisartgallery.com 33

I

posed this question to a friend as BC began loosening the many public health mandates we have been living with.

For seven years, before COVID arrived, she and I used to have six+ hour conversations weekly in favourite restaurants over endless plates of appys. We figured we have had less than 48 hours’ total face-toface time since the world shut down two years ago. Our physical separation has been a huge emotional loss for us both.

Struggling to figure out what was going to happen next, I equated my own anxiety to ever moving goal posts.

The COVID-19 pandemic exasperated stress, anxiety, loneliness, depression that many people had been able to cope with before. Studies in 2021 revealed those impacts, including a jump in those struggling with mental health from 1/3 pre-pandemic to 2/3.

Also noted was that mental health agencies were only seeing the tip of the iceberg of people struggling with negative issues. Referrals to CFLA jumped almost 400% this past year. As mandates start to lift, many people will struggle to cope. Some may isolate more now that masks aren’t required; those fearful of the unvaxed may feel more stress not knowing who is or isn’t when the passport program finishes in April.

Stress can cause us sleepless nights, lack of motivation, unrelated angry outbursts, or depression. Being able to talk through things that negatively impact our lives is a tried and tested method

WHERE DO WE GO FROM HERE?

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for coping. CFLA focuses on individual’s immediate and future concerns, and over eight weekly sessions, work on resiliency that enables personal growth. Solutionfocused brief therapy, as available through Cowichan Family Life, provides a confidential supportive environment to understand what external forces impact our behaviours, identify those to change, and helps set goals to move forward.

Strength-based support from our trained, caring volunteer counsellors guide people to tap into their inner resources and find solutions.

CFLA offers affordable inperson or virtual counselling support, and personal growth workshops (Healing Anger, Communicating with Confidence). Our office is open Monday to Friday 10-3.

Call for a free 40 minute intake appointment, or visit our website at www.cowichanfamilylife.org.

Madelaine MacLeod is CFLA’s Executive Director who looks forward to stationary goal posts.

PLENTIFILL

DOWNTOWN DUNCAN’S NEWEST ZERO WASTE REFILLERY

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rystal Aikman and Stephanie MacRae Farrow are family, friends and business partners who have shared a hobby farm for the last 8 years.

“We raise, grow and process a good portion of our own food and have been living a sustainable lifestyle for quite some time.” smiles Stephanie co owner of Plentifill, the first zero waste boutique that recently opened in Downtown Duncan. “From cloth diapering, resource sharing, minimizing our agricultural impact and driving an EV... Our consciousness has been increasing for a decade plus.”

Inspired by a refillery that Krystal visited up Island, she shared her enthusiasm for opening one with Steph and was met with a solid “No!”. “We were both working full time and helping around the farm, the concept of opening a store seemed entirely ridiculous.”

However, over the next few weeks the idea really began to make sense and from there these two entrepreneurs ran with the concept.

They are a female owned company based in Ucluelet, that produce beautiful cleaning products that smell amazing and make cleaning a lot more enjoyable. Shower Steamers, the same idea as a bath bomb, but for shower people. Place it on the floor and it fills the space with wonderful, invigorating essential oils.” shares Steph.

Now open, Plentifill specializes in refillable bath and body products, house and home supplies, and simple replacements for everyday waste producers. Any favourites we ask? “Mint! All things Mint!

163 kenneth st downtown duncan 250-737-3313

“Customers are thrilled to not have to buy plastic bottles anymore ,instead they can bring their own to refill with Canadian made shampoo and conditioner in several fragrances. Have you heard of Solid Dish Soaps?

One of these little blocks can replace up to three bottles of dish soap! Other refillable surprises?

Nellie’s dishwashing, laundry and oxygen brightener. Local marine collagen. Tooth paste and tooth tabs. They’re also proud to carry the Om Naturale line.

“These beautiful quality products are being made by our friends in Armstrong BC, but the founder actually grew up here in the valley... we’ve know him since we were in school, so it’s pretty awesome to be able to work together all these years later with the same vision of a cleaner world!”

Plans are in the works to expand the food section within the next 6 or so months. “We’re envisioning high quality ingredients available in the same bulk, low waste format.

Sourcing local whenever possible and focussing on unique foodie inspired flavours. We’re open to suggestions and requests!”

New to downtown, Plentifill has Saltspring Island Kombucha on tap, but keep checking in as the kombucha taps will rotate with different makers and flavours.

Customers can bring their own growlers, mason jars or cups, but to-go jars are also available to fill with a deposit.

How it works People are encouraged to bring in their own clean and dry containers. The empty container is first (tare) weighed so that they can deduct the container off the final weight. Customers can fill with as much or as little of the products they’d like to try.

Finally, the final weighing and calculations determine the cost.

If you happen to forget your jar, or would like to try something new and unexpected, they always have a collection of sanitized donated containers. “In order to keep this system going we gratefully accept glass sauce jars, jam jars, bottles, anything glass with a lid. We also offers an extensive line of plentiFILL glass containers for sale, too many sizes to list, but we’ve got you covered. We have been absolutely amazed with the response to this format in our first few weeks. Our hearts are so full!” Plentifill, 163 Kenneth St, downtown Duncan.

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here are multiple elements to truly mastering a sustainable life.

For many, it is a lifelong process of improvement, which at times can feel overwhelming.

However, when making consumer choices, it is becoming easier to align yourself with companies who are invested in ecologically sustainable practices.

Violet Reynolds, RMT Now practicing at CN Health & Wellness 715 Canada Avenue, Downtown Duncan Practice focuses on pain management, Somatics and Stress Reduction

To Make an Appointment 250 597-3959 or somayogaviolet@gmail.com

When considering your natural skincare and makeup purchases, let’s explore four technical areas which companies use to determine how products comply to ecological standards.

1. Purity of ingredients: Product ingredients are taking from nature (rather than man made in a laboratory) and do not include harsh chemicals, heavy metals or synthetic dyes and perfumes.

2. Vegan ingredients: No animal ingredients have been used and also has not been tested for safety on animals. (cruelty-free)

Prudence

Natural Beauty and Fashion

Open Mon - Fri 10am-5pm

Sunday 12-4pm

155 CRAIG STREET, DOWNTOWN DUNCAN

www.prudencenaturalbeauty.ca 36

3. Minimal packaging: Including refillable, reusable containers. (Pop your used blush out of its compact and pop a new one in) This also includes using natural inks and dyes.

4. Highly recyclable and/or biodegradable: Packaging is made for recycled materials or natural ingredients with minimal processing (for example, eye pencil lids made from corn)

Let’s Talk Makeup and Sustainability

Finished container can be easily recycled or reused.

By aligning yourself with companies that have already done their homework, you can feel good about using the products you purchase. You can be confident in knowing that not only does your skin look and feel great, you’ve made the world just a touch greener. Every little bit helps.

Come into Prudence to learn more about our new in-house recycle program and to check out our large selection of natural, sustainable cosmetics, including our newest line Pink-House.

DeAnna Cross is a marketing consultant and ecostylist for Prudence Naturals. Instagram: @deannamcross

rating incorporating fibres such as hemp, lyocell (made from the cellulose fibres of wood) and bamboo which uses significantly less water than cotton.

Have you heard about the Better Cotton Initiative?

Through one of our suppliers we are able to bring in well loved brands such as b young, Cream, Part Two, Lounge Nine and In Wear who are all members of this initiative and are committed to: • Grow cotton and other crops more sustainably • Better life for farm workers who benefit from improved working conditions and a higher standard of living • Better for farming communities where inequities are confronted, and women become more empowered.

We believe that investing in our planet and doing our part is always in style.

Featuring Better Cotton Initiative Fashions at Fabrications

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or the past ten years, Fabrications has made it our core value to “do no harm to the planet.” Being independently owned we have chosen to be eco-centric and these policies like everything we do is built on unstoppable courage. At Fabrications you will find beautiful boutique collections sourced from Europe, Great Britain and North America, each piece is hand chosen by Jane who is both the owner and buyer.

Each piece represents quality, wearability and the right amount of fashion edge. Choosing ethically produced yarns and organic, fair trade cotton does make a difference. With a keen GENTLY USED eye for colour and trends, Jane makes wise calculated buying decisions based on years of experience as a conscientious professional. She searches for well made, fair trade garments that not only look great but are durable and on point for today’s look.

Armed Angels is a new brand to Fabrications from Cologne Germany it’s a fresh take on the fashion industry as their website boasts that “the fashion industry is dirty and we are not, lets reinvent.” Similarly, Mac Jeans founded in 1973 and based in Regensburg, Germany has a high environmental

Though the choices we make may seem small on a global level, we can boast that one third of our staff walk to work. We encourage the use of reusable containers for our lunches and control our use of bags for shoppers. Environmentally friendly products are used CLOTHING BOUTIQUE in store, we conserve water usage, and collectively share homegrown vegetables amongst the staff. Our back yard is home to local pollinators and chemical free gardening. Our recycling and composting are performed by a local family-owned business on bicycles, and we produce only one garbage bag per month, and in this day and age that is a remarkable achievement!

Trish has been working at Fabrications for over two years, she loves the brand Part Two and Mos Mosh, she can been seen walking all over downtown Duncan and she loves to read and write.

Looking for high end, current and classic apparel.

Now booking for spring and summer appointments.

SUITE 4 - 225 CANADA AVE I DOWNTOWN DUNCAN (250) 748-0251 37

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ea means many things to different people in different places with different tea practices. The taste, the culture, the varietal, the pluck, the source, the steeping method, the stories…it all differs from cup to cup. One thing that we can say for certain is that for millennia tea has been utilized as a medicine.

What’s in a Cup Of Tea?

Tea has been part of holistic advancement of well-being and counteraction of illness since it was first discovered 5000 years ago. Did you know that there used to be doctors who worked with only the tea plant as their preferred form of treatment?

Recent scientific and technological abilities to isolate constituents and explain molecular level mechanics of ancient and traditional knowledge systems can testify to the positive effects of a daily steep. Here are some of what we consider to be the top three benefits shared among all teas (and yes, when I say tea I am referring to the one and only tea plant, Camellia sinensis!)

1. Antioxidants, Vitamins + Minerals All teas (black, green, oolong, pu-erh, and white) contain powerful phyto-nutrients which are completely unique to the tea plant. Tea is an easily absorbed source of essential vitamins and minerals. As well, antioxidants are abundant in the tea leaf in the form of polyphenols. Incredible findings show tea can both prevent and treat a myriad of health conditions. Some of the most well-known benefits of tea include anti-cancer, anti-aging, anti-oxidation, anti-inflammatory properties.

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2. L-Theanine: What truly sets the tea plant apart!

All traditional teas naturally contain caffeine however, unlike other caffeine-containing plants, tea is balanced by a unique amino-acid that increases relaxation called L-theanine.

The tea plant is the only plant known to contain L-theanine!

When working together, caffeine

+ L-theanine produce a gently sustained ‘relaxed alertness’ which can improve focus, reduce stress and anxiety, and uplift mood. Some studies have even found L-theanine to be immune boosting and improve sleep.

3. Mental Health & Tea Meditation We all know the value in pausing for a 'breather' to help our interconnected mental and physical well-being. Drinking loose tea offers a simple way to incorporate mindfulness into the everyday. By drawing upon ancient origin stories of tea as a sort of moving meditation to engage the senses and open the heart, we can find more moments of comfort, presence, and peace.

No matter what type of tea, there are medicinal qualities to be found. However, as is true for all plant medicines higher quality, organically grown, as close to whole plant as possible, well stored, and fresher teas will contain more medicine.

Although the tea experience may appear very different all around the world, tea is a wonderful example of how we can bring together well-established findings of peer-reviewed scientific publications with millennia of traditional medicine systems around the world to support the shared wellbeing of both humans and nature.

Alicia Fall. Writer at Westholme Tea Company, Community Gardener and Tea Ceremonialist

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he Cowichan Valley Wineries in partnership with the BC Shellfish Growers Association and sponsored by Wandering Mollusk Oyster Co is pleased to announce the inaugural Cowichan Valley Oyster Festival, where wine terroir meets oyster merroir. April 27th to May 1st, 2022.

In wine, the French word, “terroir” is used to define a vineyard’s unique sense of time and place. Like wine, oysters also showcase terroir. In French, the word mer means sea and the term “merrior” is now used to describe an oysters unique flavour identity.

Shucking Station Wandering Mollusk Oyster Co

Cowichan Valley Oyster Festival

Oysters can be delicate, meaty, buttery, sweet, nutty, fruity, clean, briney, savoury and even coppery.

When paired properly, wine and oysters play off each other to bring out the best of both worlds.

“The freshness, bright acidity and beautiful aromatics makes our Cowichan Valley white wines the perfect pairing for delicious local oysters!” said Pamela Sanderson, Tasting Room Manager and Sommelier at Blue Grouse Estate Winery.

Whether you are an oyster lover or newbie, there is a world of local oysters and wine to discover at the festival.

The Cowichan Valley’s top chefs are creating delicious oyster dishes paired with local wines in hopes of being crowned the Cowichan Valley’s Oyster King or Queen. Try dishes such as smoked oysters, oyster burgers, oysters rockefeller with a twist, freshly shucked oysters with special vinaigrettes and even oyster pizza at participating restaurants. Vote for your favourite dish on-line and help pick the winning restaurant.

For oyster and wine lovers, the signature event of the festival, Sip, Swirl and Get Shucked will be held on Saturday, April 30th

from 11am to 5pm and is not to be missed.

“The BCSGA is excited to be working with a community of hard-working, family-owned and operated wineries to showcase some of the best oysters in the world paired with award-winning wines. Sipping and slurping.

What a way to spend a Spring afternoon on Vancouver Island.” said Nico Prins, Executive Director of the BCSGA. Held at Enrico Winery, guests will be invited to wander from station to station enjoying freshly shucked oysters and wine pairings. Each station will provide an opportunity for guests to meet and talk with a local oyster farmer as well as try wines that pair perfectly with oysters from participating wineries.

“We are excited to host the local oyster farmers along with participating Cowichan Valley wineries at the inaugural event for the Cowichan Valley Oyster Festival,” said Lorin Inglis, General Manager of Enrico Winery. “The event will showcase how well our local wines go with Vancouver Island oysters. It will be a shuck’ng good time”.

For tickets and more information: tourismcowichan.com.

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Sustainably Harvested Seafood

from Michelle Rose CSF

Michelle Rose Community Supported Fishery

www.michellerosecsf.com

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A Guide to Cowichan Wine & Oyster Pairings

FEATURING FRESH OYSTERS FROM THESE FINE BC FARMS EFFINGHAM OYSTERS INC Barkley Sound Grown in a remote deep-water site on the west coast of Vancouver Island, in trays suspended in deep nutrient rich water. They have plump, cream-coloured meats with a bright,briny flavor and a smooth watermelon or lettuce-like finish.

USELESS INLET OYSTERS located north of Seddall Island are hardened on a beach surrounded by old-growth trees which lends a peat flavour to these unique oysters.

READ ISLAND OYSTERS Read Island is a golden oyster for a golden moment with a sweet finish. This is a deep-water tray-raised product with a deep cup and a mild, fresh flavour with a sweet finish.

SAWMILL BAY BEACH OYSTERS are beach raised/finished and feeds with the ebb and flow of the tides, spending part of its life out of the water, giving it a unique taste. With a good cup to it, this oyster has a stronger, fuller flavour and distinct sweet and briny finish.

OUTLANDISH SHELLFISH GUILD INC. Discovery Islands. The pristine, glacial fed waters where our shellfish grow, enables us to produce oysters with delicate shells and deep cups, typical of Pacific Oysters grown in trays with a moderate briny taste.

WILD KRAKEN ENTERPRISES Maple Bay One of only two oyster farms in the area. You won’t get any overwhelming flavours from these oysters with just the right balance of salt and sweetness and often a green apple candy note.

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Glenora Fantasia Brut Vintage: 2017 ZANATTA WINERY Zanatta’s signature sparkling wine, Fantasia is the perfect oyster wine. Made in the traditional champagne method using 100% Cayuga grapes. Fantasia’s delicate bubbles and crisp green apple notes pair beautifully with local oysters.

Bacchus BLUE GROUSE ESTATE WINERY Bacchus, named after the Roman god for harvest, winemaking and wine, is an estate favourite. This wine is savory, herbaceous, and delicate on the palate, with notes of citrus, lime zest, and pear. Pairs beautifully with local seafood and especially BC Oysters.

2020 Somenos Pinot Gris AVERILL CREEK VINEYARD Bursting with fresh fruit and tactile acidity, the Somenos Pinot Gris is a generous wine, brimming with energy and texture. Extended lees ageing builds a salinity that marries beautifully with all things of the sea.

Sirius White ROCKY CREEK WINERY Blend of estate grapes with characters of a sauvignon blanc. We also have viognier, albariono and others as our secret premium blend. Full on the palate but has that brightness and acidity that pairs so well with oysters of all kinds, especially fresh. You get the brininess of the oyster with the fullness of the blend.

Tempest Ortega ENRICO WINERY Tempest Ortega, exquisite, light bodied soft floral bouquet and balanced fruity flavours all leading to a crisp clean finish.

Get Shucked

IT’S TIME TO SLURP AND SIP AT THE COWICHAN VALLEY’S FIRST OYSTERFEST

WEDNESDAY, APRIL 27th to SUNDAY, MAY 1ST

Enjoy delicious oyster creations by Cowichan Valley’s top chefs along with local wine pairings at participating restaurants.

Signature Event

SATURDAY, APRIL 30TH 11AM - 5PM Wine Terroir meets Oyster Merroir Event Sip, Swirl and Get Shucked Meet local Oyster Farmers & enjoy freshly shucked oysters and wine pairings from participating Cowichan Valley Wineries.

Tickets on sale April 5th. Hosted at Enrico Winery.

For full details and tickets visit: tourismcowichan.com 41

Tapping rubber trees in Sri Lanka for our purchased and why.

Obasan and Kakun latex products. For many of us it’s

becoming more difficult to continue paying for organic, fair trade and local goods when the cost of everything seems to be tripling. The plight of unfairly-paid workers in distant lands seems more faded in contrast to our reality; cheap finds in dollar stores appear easier on the wallet than items in a small local business.

Consuming Consciously Dorota LockyerSocial Media Specialist at Resthouse Sleep Solutions

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ith such busy lives, it’s tempting to head out with a list of things to buy, cross shopping off the to-do list, and move on without paying a second thought to what we

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And it’s understandable, our busy minds are filled with the urgent matters of our daily lives. But, can we really afford to not consider what we’re buying?

For example, products made out of plastics, or other synthetic materials, may seem like sensible, budget friendly options. But there are other costs we might not consider: the environmental degradation involved in resource extraction,

and the social harm caused by poor working conditions. In fact, many of these materials just aren’t as durable as the natural options they imitate and need to be replaced and disposed of sooner (leading to added expense and waste).

In the long run—and collectively—these choices can be quite costly. As if that wasn’t enough, we are also seeing growing evidence of negative health effects from exposure to microplastics and chemical offgassing.

Shopping consciously, with intention, can make a huge difference to ourselves and others. It requires us to check in with ourselves and make choices that align with our values. It is thinking before buying.

Before putting something into our shopping basket, we might ask ourselves: Is the item made in line with my values? If you don’t know, take a moment to think about what’s

important to you.

Am I supporting the local economy? Think about who is benefiting from your purchase.

Is it a big company overseas, or your neighbour?

Are the people who produce this item treated and compensated fairly? Consider the conditions and pay of the workers producing your goods.

Is this item made to last, durable and good for me and the planet?

What happens to it when it needs to be replaced? Think about the lifecycle of your items, from how they are produced to where they will end up.

Saying “no” to impulse buying, instant gratification and satisfying our whims is a practice. Awareness and education are the first steps to creating new habits for ourselves, while having a positive impact on our communities and local economy. Making better choices today can lead to a brighter future for the long run.

Rhododendrons and Understory Planting Bernie Dinter, Horticulturist and owner of Dinter Nursery

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hododendrons are the most widely grown ornamental plant on the west coast. They are evergreen, have spectacular blooms between February and June and are deer resistant. Many varieties are sun tolerant, but their preferred location is in the understory of tall trees. Many of our properties have tall trees suitable for growing Rhododendrons. Most varieties originate from species found in the Himalayan mountains with summer monsoon rains.

Our climate is Mediterranean with dry summers, making it critical that they receive summer irrigation. With their shallow roots, they are sensitive to drying out and like a porous, well drained acidic soil high in organic matter. Regular fertilizing is beneficial, but the critical time to feed is as the blooms fade and new growth develops.

Using a high phosphorus fertilizer, flower buds are set for the following year by September and are visible by

WOODLAND GARDENS their large plump appearance. There are hundreds of varieties to choose from, many developed by breeders in our area.

One can plant a sequence of plants that blooming from February to June and enjoy interesting textures of foliage the rest of the year.

Cultural requirements for Rhododendrons are basic. They must have drainage during our wet winters but receive water in our dry summers.

Being shallow rooted, they need fresh organic material spread underneath from time to time. A balanced fertilizer should be applied regularly and lightly with the main feeding after blooming. If they are not happy in a location, their shallow compact roots allow them to be moved almost anytime with little shock. To enhance your woodland garden there are many shade tolerant perennials to consider such as Astilbe, primula, Sweet Woodruff, Oregon Grape, Bleeding Hearts and Hosta. Any garden with partial shade should have a place for these lovely shrubs.

Rhododendrons Azaleas Oregon Grape Skimmia Pieris Sweet Box Mexican Orange Ferns Hosta Bleeding Heart Primula Sweet Woodruff and many more....

Serving local gardeners since 1973

www.dinternursery.ca 250 748-2023

5km South of Duncan on Hwy 1

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hile I think every day is technically a day to be kind to the planet, Earth Day is a day to show appreciation and get into new habits if needed. There are so many little things you can do to celebrate but I like to plant something. Planting my own fruits and veggies has been a satisfying way for me to learn more about the environment that I live in. I don’t have much space to garden in, which is why I use starters.

Vegetable starters are simply vegetables that have already been seeded and germinated by a farm, greenhouse, or home gardener. They start the vegetables for you and all you need to do is get them in the ground!

Here are a few reasons to buy veggie starters or transplants from a local farmer this year:

their offerings better and adjust their inventory to the marketplace quicker than the grocery stores or garden centres who need to transport their plant products over a long distance. You are also not risking introducing foreign bug and disease problems to your garden and surrounding ecosystems.

Get (Veggie) Started ● Plants grown here are accustomed to our local soils and weather conditions. ● By purchasing locally grown plants you are directly supporting local farmers.

Winters are typically quiet

locally grown, organic and delicious

Ol’ MacDonald Farm Spinach, Hakurei turnips, salad mix, arugula, mustard mix, radishes and free range eggs Delicious, local food grown with love.

Available Saturdays at the Duncan Farmers Market.

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and don’t offer many options for income for farmers.

Buying local starts means they get a much needed kickstart to the season’s cash flow.

It is more appreciated than you know!

As a new gardener, plant starts can give you the confidence to plant a vegetable garden in the first place because you’re beginning with plants that are already well on their way. I order my starters through Cow-op.ca, since it’s the only place I can order transplants and seeds to be delivered with the rest of my groceries (all from local producers in the Cowichan Valley).

● Plants that are grown locally save on fuel and transportation costs. Some of Cow-op’s farmers can even walk or bike their transplants to their warehouse before they deliver to you. Food in the grocery stores travels an average of 1,500 miles to get to you, and all that shipping can cause pollution plus an increase of fossil fuel consumption and carbon emissions.

Growing a garden is one of my favourite ways to connect with nature daily.

Earth Day (April 22) is just a reminder of how beautiful and awesome our planet is. Take advantage of it! Spend the afternoon outdoors gardening, having a home grown lunch, or just taking in deep breaths of the fresh air.

● Local plants are “fresher.”

Our local growers can time

Submited by Courtney Christensen, Cow-op.ca

WHAT IS THE SOIL FOOD WEB AND HOW CAN WE SUPPORT IT? Tamara Dinter, Dinter Nursery General Manager and Soil Enthusiast

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teaspoon of healthy garden soil contains astonishing biodiversity, and yet so little is known about this often underappreciated ecosystem. Only a fraction of the estimated 1 billion species of soil bacteria and up to 5 million species of soil fungi have been identified. The purpose of the soil ecosystem is to break down organic matter, recycle essential nutrients back into the soil and contribute to humus

formation. These processes involve a unique cast of characters with leading and supporting roles in the soil food web.

The primary consumers (bacteria and fungi) mineralize organic matter by releasing enzymes that break down the cell walls allowing the nutrients inside to become available. The larger molecules inside the cells in turn are broken down until the nutrient ions become available for plant uptake.

The primary consumers are munched on by secondary consumers (protozoa, springtails, nematodes, mites) who are themselves eaten by the higher level consumers (earthworms, beetles, centipedes, millipedes, ants, spiders).

Plant roots are active participants in the soil food web. The highest level

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Hidden Gem Reiki Studio

Judy Johnstone, Reiki Master 250-661-0192 www.hiddengemreiki.com of fungal and bacterial biodiversity occurs within two millimeters of the plant roots (a zone known as the rhizosphere). Plant roots secrete proteins and sugars which promote the growth of bacteria and fungi around the root zone. In this way, the roots feed the bacteria and fungi, which in turn release nutrients which feed the plant!

The most important thing you can do for the soil food web is add organic matter!

Not only is it the food that

keeps the web running; good quality compost adds even more diverse populations of microorganisms to your soil. Keeping the soil pH close to neutral, avoiding soil compaction (don’t walk on wet soil!) and minimizing tilling are other ways you can help your soil food web to flourish.

View Sales Flyers at www.buckerfields.ca 45

Get Gardening with the Cowichan Farm & Food Hub

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pring is well underway in the Cowichan Valley, and it’s such a beautiful time to watch the natural world come to life. Gardening is a way anyone can participate in the cycle of growth, whether you have a huge vegetable garden out back or just a few potted plants in your living room.

Tending to living things and helping them flourish is tonic for the soul.

At the Cowichan Farm & Food Hub (formerly the Garden Education Centre), we can help you get set up with locally adapted seeds and plant seedling starts from our nursery. Everything is grown in organic materials and we save much of the seed ourselves on-site. We have a large variety of native plants and medicinals alongside fruit, vegetables and ornamentals. The tomatoes and peppers are looking especially fine.

If you’re not sure where to start or have questions about gardening in general, we’re happy to chat about all things growing and share what works best for this climate.

You can take a stroll around the farm and greenhouses to

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give your imagination all the fuel it needs to put together your perfect plant sanctuary.

We would also love for you to check out our Community Seed Library, connecting local growers with locally adapted seeds. We invite all community members to contribute local non-GMO seeds and also to come and take seeds to grow out in your garden. Taking part in the seed library is an excellent opportunity to support local seed sovereignty and increase the collective seed bank. Local food security begins with a seed.

Come by and visit us today at the Cowichan Farm & Food Hub. You’ll find us at 2431 Beverly Street in Duncan, and we’re open Tuesdays to Saturdays from 9:00 to 4:30.

You can also give us a call at 250-597-8200 or an email at farmhub@cowichangreencommunity.org.

Phil Reilander is the Farm & Food Hub marketing coordinator with the Cowichan Green Community.

Nuts’amaat Syaays–Working Together As One

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isclosing sexualized violence to anyone, let alone police or health care professionals often retraumatizes survivors. Rape is a physical assault that is sexualized. It has nothing to do with sexual attraction and it is never the victim’s fault. We live in a culture of silence and victim blaming. Our societal attitudes create barriers for survivors to seek justice, or medical care in order to recover from the trauma.

Research shows that when a survivor receives compassionate support during the immediate aftermath of sexualized trauma, it has a significant impact on recovery. Survivors need collaboration amongst service providers.

In the spirit of collaboration, Warmland Women’s Support Services Society is dedicated to creating a coordinated crosssectoral response to sexualized violence. Survivors are directly impacted by the relationships service providers have with each other. We are committed to creating response procedures and accountability measures that support survivors and the community at large.

“Nuts’amaat Syaays–Working Together As One” is a sexual assault response program grounded in Indigenous values.

Guidance from Quw’utsun Elders and Knowledge Keepers ensures cultural safety and cultural competence. Our collaborative partnership with Island Health forensic nurses provides a foundation for responding effectively to survivors of sexual

assault. We are deeply grateful for this partnership and the dedication of medical front line workers.

“Nuts’amaat Syaays” provides 24/7 crisis accompaniment to Cowichan Valley hospitals for survivors seeking forensic medical care. Crisis accompaniment includes culturally-informed practical and emotional support, information, response planning, and seamless coordination for wraparound support bridging survivors to community resources.

Sexual assault Advocates offer compassionate trauma-informed support while providing inperson accompaniment for survivors to attend medical services, report an offense to RCMP, or attend court so that survivors are not alone during the aftermath of sexualized violence.

Moving beyond immediate/ emergency needs “Nuts’amaat Syaays” offers trauma-informed counseling and group programs supporting survivors’ overall post-traumatic recovery.

Training begins this spring for our sexual assault Advocate program. Registration is free.

Upon successful completion of the training program Advocates can apply for casual positions starting at $26/hr. Contact Kendra Thomas for details: kthomas@warmlandwomen.org 250-710-8177.

Kendra Thomas, Society Coordinator Warmland Women’s Support Services Society

do’s

Sus

ble A taina

Edible Landscapes Yard Maintenance & Organic Garden Care

Ado Grimwood-Adam Ado is an organic gardener, foodie and father of three living in the Cowichan Valley. He holds a Certificate in Permaculture from Langara College, and is passionate about sustainability, food security, climate change and organic gardening.

Whether you need yard maintenance, or want to establish Edible Landscapes, Ado is a reliable, friendly and helpful person to work with.

Services offered include: ~ Edible Landscapes ~ Yard Maintenance ~ Organic Garden Care

Call or text for a free on-site consultation!

250.815.5789 47

HOME ENERGY ASSESSMENT Qualify for a Canada Greener Homes Grant

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educing home energy consumption, switching away from fossil fuels and adding solar power are all great things to reduce our footprint on this planet. Now there is some help.

The Canada Greener Homes Grant launched in 2021, offers to be a big help in this area. With up to $5000, in grant money for your retrofit and another $600 for an home energy assessment, there has been no better time to jump in and get those home energy upgrades completed.

In addition, the provincial Clean BC grant is still active

Measuring insulation depth in attic.

and stacking these grants makes home energy retrofits extremely attractive right now.

So how do you access this grant money? Well it hasn’t been easy so far as the systems have taken some time to be put in place but now Natural Resources Canada seems to be smoothing the process out.

Here are the steps: 1) Register online for the Canada Greener Homes Grant (You must be the home owner and it must be your primary residence) 2) Contact an Energy Advisor for your Pre-Retrofit Assessment Here’s what you can expect:

Energy Assessment Blower Door Test

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Your energy advisor will provide an onsite assessment of your home energy consumption and

Insulation, Heating and Cooling Systems, Solar Energy, Battery backup, Basement waterproofing.

Your personal preferences are also taken into consideration and included in the report.

recommendations as to the various opportunities you may have to improve your energy use at home. They measure building dimensions, windows and doors, insulations levels, catalogue your heating cooling and ventilation systems and measure the air tightness of your home.

They then take this data and put it into a computer model to see how your home compares to a baseline standard home. From there we are able to make recommendations about the opportunities you have to decrease energy use.

Recommendations can range from Air Sealing, Windows and Door replacement,

3) Complete your Retrofit Upgrades through a qualified contractor. A qualified professional contractor will make sure you have qualifying equipment installed in your home.

4) Have your Energy Assessor return to complete your PostRetrofit Assessment to verify the upgrades and re-measure the air-tightness of the building.

5) Post documentation to Canada Greener Homes portal and await your grant rebate!

Don’t forget to apply for any relevant CleanBC rebates as well.

The Canada Greener Homes grant promises 700,000 rebates across Canada with about 187,000 having already been registered to date at the time of this writing.

Don’t wait too long to register!

Kuan Jian Foo is the founder of Bia Energy Consulting in the Cowichan Valley and with over 12 years working in the home energy industry is now offering home energy assessments and consulting. info@biaenergy.ca

Heatpump installation

Garden Volunteers Needed – Providence Farm Do you wish to be outdoors, enjoying the sunshine? Love gardening? Have a few hours to spare? How about adopting one of our garden beds to care for?

Providence Farms wants you!

Providence Farm’s gardens are a place of healing, especially for our participants who join us daily for Nature Based Therapy.

If you are interested in volunteering, we would love to hear from you. email CommunityRelations@providence.bc.ca

1843 Tzouhalem Rd, Duncan I Open Daily 9am - 3pm

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E

arth Day - Birthday! On April 22, 1970, the Earth Day movement began with a demonstration of twenty million environmentally conscience individuals. They were concerned about pollution; the effects on one’s health and the environment. Today, the event inspires rallies of over a billion people from more than 190 countries worldwide. There is growing global awareness of how our daily decisions and behaviours affect the environment. Many people volunteer for community cleanups, reduce their plastic waste, conserve water, drive less, shop local, shop sustainable, and have adopted a renewable energy action plan.

The renewable energy sector is projected to surpass fossil fuels as the largest global source of electricity by 2025! Funding for solar is now available through the Canada Greener Homes Grant. Viridian Energy Co-operative explains how solar energy systems work. Empower your future, go solar!

are not required for grid-tie systems. Electricity generated by solar is first used on site with the excess sent back to BC Hydro. The utility acts as storage and through BC Hydro’s net metering program, a user earns energy credits for the electricity fed back to the grid.

These systems only work while connected to the grid.

GOING SOLAR How it Works

Batteries store energy that can be used when the grid goes down.

Battery inverter/charger converts the battery DC electricity to the AC electricity used for household appliances and allows batteries to run while separated from the grid.

HOW IS SOLAR POWER GENERATED? Solar power is generated by photovoltaic cells, these cells convert sunlight to electricity in the form of Direct Current (DC) that is then passed through an inverter. This inverter turns the DC electricity into Alternating Current (AC) electricity. AC is what is used to power electrical lights and other household

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2. Grid-tie with battery backup systems have the same core components as grid-tie systems while adding batteries, battery inverter/charger, a dedicated loads panel and an optional generator for when the power goes out. This adds resiliency and security to the system.

appliances. According to the International Energy Agency, solar power is now the fastest growing source of power in the world.

The three most common solar power systems are Grid-tie, Grid-tie with battery backup and

Off-grid.

1. Grid-tie systems are grid connected solar power systems.

Grid-tie systems provide a portion or all of a user’s electricity needs. They are a good investment to offset electrical costs. Batteries

Dedicated loads panel ensures power goes to only the essential places during a power outage (e.g. lights, fridge/freezer), conserving battery power.

Generator, this can also be added to the system to top up batteries if the power is out for extended periods of time or if there are larger loads.

3. Off-grid systems have a

dedicated battery bank, charge controller, inverters and backup generator. These systems are suitable for remote areas where there is good solar resource and utility power is not available or is prohibitively expensive.

Solar panel placement is particularly important for offgrid applications as maximizing energy production is essential.

Days of Autonomy – the number of days a user can run on a battery system before it needs to be recharged. This along with a load calculation determines the size of the battery bank. Designing an off-grid home with energy efficiency in mind to minimize the electrical loads can significantly reduce the cost of an off-grid power system. (e.g.

LED light bulbs, propane fridge etc.)

Investing in any one of these solar power systems provides current and future electrical energy needs. The specific system chosen depends on the specific needs of the user.

Investing in a solar power system is a way to future proof a home. This allows a user to purchase electricity up front, locking into a fixed cost for

energy for the next 30+ years.

Contact Viridian Energy Co-operative at (250) 412.3520 or https://viridianenergy.ca if you would like to learn more about how solar power can empower you.

“Earth Day 2012 the theme was ‘Time to Restore Our Earth’ and the question in Canada was, ‘what should Canada do to become a green energy superpower?’ Viridian Energy Co-operative came into existence in the year 2012.

Since then, Earth Day has grown in significance around the world and Viridian has grown to become BC’s green energy superpower.”

Don Skerik, Production Manager, Red Seal Electrician and founding VEC member Why go solar?

• Clean Energy • Returns Increase as Electricity Rates Increase • Tax-free Savings • Ownership of a Tangible Asset • 25 Year Performance Warranty • Scalable Investment • Resiliency and Energy Security Viridian Energy Cooperative

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THE PLASTIC DILEMMA: Sorting it Out Marti Smith is a writer and musician happily living in the Cowichan Valley with her family.

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ecycling plastics can be a mystifying process. Can onion mesh bags actually be recycled? Do candy wrappers get recycled with regular plastic bags? What about plastic lined paper bags? The answer to the last one, is unfortunately, no.

Which means I can no longer in good conscience buy a certain brand of corn chips.

Providing the Cowichan Valley with Raw Cold Press 100% Organic Juices & Nut Mylks NEW Bone Broths with Medicinal Mushrooms!

Available EVERY DAY at The Community Farm Store or WEEKLY online at cow-op.ca. Direct orders can be placed to hello@euphoricjuicery.com

Giving you back the luxury of time and a naturally clean home to enjoy it in!

Providing professional, eco friendly cleaning services.

250 929 8381 www.cleanchoicecleaners.com Licensed - Insured - Bonded

Stretchy and Non-Stretchy The way I see it is that there are two groups: the stretchy plastic category which includes grocery bags and all things that stretch; and a crinkly plastic category, such as all non-stretchy bags.

The second category is also sometimes called: Other Flexible Packaging. I am happy to say I’ve solved the mystery of onion and avocado bags – they go in with the non-stretchy plastic, otherwise known as Other Flexible Packaging, or Category 9. Stiff, stand-up by themselves zip loc bags for things like granola, cat food and frozen berries, also get recycled with the Other-Flexible Packaging category. Island Return It and other recycling depots now accept Other Flexible Packaging.

To make this process easier at our house, we have two recycling bins at home, one for stretchy plastics and the other for nonstretchy plastics. When they’re jammed full, we make a trip to Island Return It. One of the reasons it can be so

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perplexing, even when you get the stretchy, non-stretchy thing, is that there’s so darn much of it, like an overwhelming mountain of plastic, and that’s of course, the real problem. But it’s so malleable and mutable, which some people say is a great thing, because it can be created into many different products. Like the company that turned scraps from funnels and component parts for conveyors and elevators into recycled plastic toboggans.

Some people feel very strongly anti-plastic, so they’re willing to take products out of their packaging and leave them in grocery store carts, in order to make a statement. Other people want to be a little quieter about their views, but they contribute to change by using alternatives to plastic like cloth mesh veggie bags or using glass jars at the bulk bin. And there are still others, who are willing to be part of change within the industry, such as organizations that are working on the creation of a circular plastic economy.

Circular Plastic Economy According to the Recycle BC website, they are supporters of the Ellen MacArthur Foundation and the New Plastics Economy Global Commitment. The foundation proposes a circular economy for plastic, where it never becomes waste or pollution.

A video on their website explains: “If we continue like this, by 2040 the volume of plastic on the market will have doubled. And the flow of plastic in the ocean will have about tripled.”

Yes, it’s true, millions of plastic ends up in landfills, incinerators and in oceans. So, improving recycling is crucial, but we can’t recycle our way out of plastic pollution, alone. The foundation is calling for broad innovations, like eliminating single use plastics, delivering products to customers package-free or with renewable packaging and

only using plastics that can be reused, recycled or composted.

As well they are proposing innovative technologies for new collection systems to accelerate the circular economy. The circular plastic initiative is also part of a larger vision calling for a regenerative and restorative economy.

As these broad sweeping changes are afoot, if we get our recycling into the right bins at Island Return It, or other recycling depots, less of it may end up in landfills and in our oceans.

A Note about Pre-sorting Pre-sorting plastics at home is easier and faster than doing it at the depot. If you’re still confused, put items you’re unsure about aside in a different bag and ask for clarification at the depot. Unfortunately, contamination of the stream creates more garbage. For further clarification, you can visit the Island Return It or Recycle BC websites: https://islandreturnit. com/ https://recyclebc.ca/

SORT PLASTICS IN TWO GROUPS FOR THE DEPOT: Plastic bags and overwrap: Plastic bags for groceries, dry cleaning, bread, newspapers and flyers; bags for produce, dry bulk foods, pre-washed salad and frozen vegetables (without ziploc); outer bags for diapers and feminine hygiene products, paper towels, tissues, soft drink can flats; bags for water softener, salt, wood pellets and garden products; overwrap on mattresses, furniture and electronic equipment.

Other Flexible Packaging: zipper lock pouches for frozen foods like prawns, berries, deli meat.

Bags for potato chips, quinoa, candy bars and cereal bags, dish detergent pods, packaging for dry pasta, pre-packaged deli meat, net bags for avocados, onions and citrus fruit. Padded protective plastic like plastic shipping envelopes, bubble wrap, plastic seals used on yogurt containers (cleaned, not just licked), tea bag envelopes, coffee foil bag, any regular Ziploc bags.

Non Recyclable Plastic: Paper padded protective shipping envelopes, shower curtains, vinyl packaging with zippers for bed sheets, vinyl tablecloths, garbage bags of any colour, cat or dog food bags, that are made of both paper and plastic, or plastic chip bags with paper liners.

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he two-acre garden surrounding Gàrradh (Gaelic for “garden”) House is an ongoing labour of love that was started in 1976 by Jackie and Jim Barker. Inspired by the Delderfield novels and answering the call of his farming ancestors, Jim, the primary gardener, set out to transform the fir and cedartreed property into a series of garden rooms featuring Japanese garden elements and accents while maintaining the naturalized West Coast flora.

“I was always impressed by the tranquility and beauty of Japanese gardens,” Jim says, “and that inspired me to incorporate their most defining components such as stones, gravel, ponds, bridges, lanterns and specific flowers, trees and shrubs into my landscaping designs.”

Features of the garden include several orchard areas containing Bosc and Bartlett pears, yellow and purple plums, Bing cherries, Transparent apples, and various semi-dwarf and dwarf apples, including Gala. Two fish ponds each provide movement and sound, involving artfully hidden

A Peek Into Garden House water circulation systems, a cobble stone “river” and a bamboo waterspout which juts out from large quarry rocks.

A natural dry marsh pond and structures such as a Japanese arched bridge, rustic open tea room, and weathered deck which provides a wisteria-shaded space from which to overlook the back garden, provide interesting vistas while strolling the grounds.

A re-purposed chicken house

and ivy-covered greenhouse, now used for garden tool and pot storage, are reminders of the many homesteading activities the Barkers have undertaken in the past and continue to explore.

The vegetable garden, overseen

by Jackie, was designed with the seven elements of an edible food forest in mind. Nestled amongst encircling chestnut, cherry and towering evergreen trees, the garden harbours well-established blueberry and raspberry bushes, perennial herbs, mint, rhubarb, horseradish, overwintering garlic, root crops and other vegetables are planted in raised beds, pots, hanging baskets, and the small greenhouse and cold frame.

Cheery tulips, marigolds, and alyssum line the beds to provide colour and attract pollinating insects.

Everything flows together along winding paths, through natural and hand-built archways and

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alongside hedgerows that harbour small birds, hawks, raccoons and squirrels, all overseen by the occasional gnome.

The curving front and back lawns are bordered by a wonderful array of mature flowering shrubs, including 67 rhododendron bushes ranging in height from three to thirty feet which bloom from December through early summer and 33 varied and fragrant azaleas. At least eight varieties of Japanese Maples as well as many other ornamental trees are sprinkled throughout the property, providing accents of colour from spring to late fall. Of note is a spectacular Honey Locust tree which rivals the height of those found in the quarry area at Butchart Gardens.

In the summer, naturalized fruit such as huckleberries, small blackberries and Oregon grape hiding in the corners make great snacks.

The garden is maintained with the help of over a third of a kilometer of hand-dug underground sprinklers and seven drip zones. In the spirit of xeriscaping, where low water usage is the goal, plants are being gradually replaced with those that are more drought-tolerant.

Gàrradh House is one of six gardens that you can explore during the 2022 CFLA Self Directed Garden Tour on May 29th from 10 am to 4:30 pm.

For more details please call (250) 748-8281 or visit: https:// cowichanfamilylife.org/gardentour-fund-raiser Submitted by Jackie Barker CFLA Garden Tour

contractors with a larger, better designed space to accommodate our green maintenance equipment, as well as a locker area where bowlers can safely store their bowls mere meters from the playing area.

Finishing work on the shed and the lockers was performed by club volunteers. It must be noted here that our contractors, not only fulfilled their duties, but went over and above with donated time and effort.

The end result is a much improved sports facility which will serve the community for years to come.

Learn to Bowl

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hese are exciting days for Cowichan Lawn Bowling Club. Since 1998, the club has offered fun, fresh air, gentle exercise and camaraderie to Cowichan Valley citizens, of all ages.

When the CoVid 19 pandemic forced the cancellation of activities in spring 2020, our club leaders took full advantage of the downtime by organizing and overseeing the planned rebuild of our green (the playing surface) and our equipment shed.

With funds raised through member donations and the success of Federal and Provincial government grant applications, two of the very best Island contractors were hired.

Job #1 was the green rebuild.

Working as a team, our experts stripped the top layers of the green, tore out and rebuilt the backboards and ditches. Twenty truckloads of top quality sand, were spread, tamped down and levelled within a 4mm tolerance. With special grass seed planted and the new irrigation system installed, it was time to watch the grass grow.

Now, job #2! The old, cramped shed was demolished by club volunteers, and replaced by the same two

The new season begins soon and we invite you and your family to join us in Centennial Park to give this great game a try! Our FREE Annual Open House event is scheduled for Sunday, May 1st from noon to 3pm.This is followed immediately by our Coaching Week – May 2nd to 6th from 10am to 2pm. If these dates do not suit, individual arrangements can be made by contacting our Coaching Coordinators – Penny and Jim Irvine at 250-746-4008.

Lessons are always free. Do come out and join the fun!

We provide the bowls, all you need are flat-soled shoes and your vaccination passport.

More info at www. cowichanlawnbowling.com Click on the “interested” and “learn more” tabs.

See you on our new and improved green!

Pat Unger Past President, CLBC

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abandon and freedom of imagination. Play is the work of the child. It is through movement and play that children sense fully into their bodies, and keenly into the pictures of the mind.

Skipping, climbing, jumping and outside play (no matter what the weather) is an integral part of the rhythm of the day in our Early Childhood classrooms. Splashing through puddles, rolling down grassy hills, and swinging are some of the other ways that children start to know their bodies and explore the world around them. Here is what one parent had to say after visiting our classrooms for the first time: “I walked into the Kindergarten classroom, and was completely taken by the beauty. Richly coloured velvet robes hung on a coat rack for playing dress up, and beside it a basket of silk scarves and knit belts. A simple, yet finely handcrafted wooden kitchen was set up for play with miniature wooden cups, plates, and spoons.

We were still familiarizing ourselves with what Waldorf education was about, but I knew without a doubt that this warm hued classroom environment, rich with textures, natural materials and void of plastic, prints and stark institutional decor, was where my precious children would get their start in school. What a loving start it has been.”

The young children at Sunrise Waldorf School also immerse themselves in activities that are reflective and imitative of the adults that are caring for them.

Kneading and baking dough for bread, setting and clearing the table for snack, folding and

Image Cara Bjornson

Early Childhood Education in the Waldorf School

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ave you ever walked into a room and felt yourself exhale? Have you ever experienced a song or a story that continued to unfold in your mind for several days?

Have you ever played in the rain and felt the drops on your skin? As adults, when we walk into the Preschool and Kindergarten Classrooms in a Waldorf School, these are some of the sensations that we notice.

A feeling of peace, a sense of wonder and a remembering about what childhood is all about... playing.

Sunrise Waldorf School Early Childhood Education classrooms are revered for their simplicity, warmth, and the feeling of coming home.

From the soft woolen dolls, to the colourful silks, from the blocks, stones, shells and flowers, to the smell of bread baking and oatmeal cooking, our Early Childhood classrooms are brimming with opportunities to play with total

Waldorf Early Years An evening with Waldorf Kindergarten Teachers Dorota Ignaszewska and Mima Djordjevic

THURSDAY, APRIL 28th 7Pm Early social 8-9 pm Lecture Hosted by the Sunrise Waldorf School Parents Association. All are welcome. Zoom link available by request please contact: swpa@sunrisewaldorfschool.org

2148 Lakeside Road, Duncan sunrisewaldorfschool.org Offering INDIVIDUALIZED ASSESSMENTS AND LESSONS since 2014, including work in developmental and therapeutic areas for children who are STRUGGLING TO LEARN TO READ.

KATE WOODLAND, BEd BC Certified Teacher readnow180@gmail.com stacking cloths and napkins.

Moving slowly and speaking mindfully, the teachers offer a soft voice and a safe loving environment.

Strong rhythms and repetition allow the children to sink deeply into their play. Our teachers bring emphasis to the rhythms of the day, the week, and seasons of the year, all of which create the foundation for the young child to feel safe and free to explore. In an ever changing and fast paced world, the Waldorf Preschool

and Kindergartens are a place where childhood is preserved and held with love.

Interested in learning more about Waldorf Early Childhood Education? The Sunrise Waldorf Parent Association is hosting an enriching experience presented by Kindergarten teachers Dorota Ignaszewska and Mima Djordjevic on Thursday, April 28 from 8-9pm. Please email swpa@ sunrisewaldorfschool.org for the Zoom link to attend.

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Valleyview

Centre

So much to offer!

1400 Cowichan Bay Rd Wellness Reiki Wellness 250 743-8122 Reiki, Foot Detox, Infrared, Acupuncture, Reflexology

Healthcare

Food Country Grocer 250 743-5639 Bakery, Meat, Seafood, Produce, Deli & Floral, Supplements

We Welcome New Patients!

Cure Artisan Meat & Cheese 250 929-2873 Charcuterie, Cheese House Made Pates

Island Pharmacy 250 743-1448 Open 7 Days a week for all your pharmacy needs.

Valley Health and Fitness 250-743-0511 Full service gym/classes

Cobble Hill Dental 250-743-6698 Friendly, Family Practice

Fitness

dine in I patio service I take-out

fresh cut kennebec fries • crispy battered fish • delicious tacos • pizzas • poutines • burgers and more!

Sunday- Thursday | 11:00 - 9:00 Friday & Saturday | 11:00 - 10:00 111 jubilee st, duncan I 778 • 422 • 3000 menu online at: freshkennys.com 58

Down by the Bay Where the eelgrass grows Back to my home, I dare not go For if I do My mother would say Have you ever seen a Flatworm doing the squirm?

Down by the bay!

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orms are awesome!

On land, they turn compost into nutrients and are food for birds and other creatures.

Flatworms in Cowichan Bay

Did you know that worms also live in the ocean? We have lots of different kinds of worms here, but one of the more unusual worms is called a Flatworm.

This curious creature lives in the ocean and is as flat as a piece of paper and is a freemoving predator.

Having a flat body allows this worm to move into places that most other invertebrates can not- such as in rock crevices and cracks in the shells of bivalves such as oysters and scallops. Unfortunately, while the flatworm is not a parasite, it is considered a pest to aquaculture operations.

The Bivalve Flatworm likes to settle in oyster beds, on marine structures, hanging bags of scallop seed and other places where shellfish is easy to access. This worm also likes to eat limpets, barnacles and other small marine organisms.

The worm in the above photo was found squeezed in between the plastic mesh

in the under-gravel filter of the Observation Tank at the Cowichan Estuary Nature Centre. The edges are curled up a bit because it was out of the water (don’t worry, we put it back in the tank).

Cool fact: this worm has a simple digestive system with only one opening…that means its mouth is also the anus.

You probably won’t find a flatworm while beachcombing, but if you scuba dive or snorkel near shellfish beds, you might find one.

Happy worm hunting! remember your beach etiquette this season: Please be gentle with all creatures you find on the beach. The ocean is a hard place to live. If you turn a rock to look underneath, please turn it over and put it back exactly as you found it.

The creatures that live under rocks need their homes to survive.

Madeline Southern Aquarist/ Educator, Cowichan Estuary Nature Centre Cowichanestuary.ca

Discovering the Deep: Life in our Last Wilderness

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umans derive huge benefits from the oceans, both shallow and deep. However, mounting pressures from humans are threatening the ability of that ocean to deliver such services. As exploration has expanded our access, the marvels of deep ocean ecosystems are revealed, just as exploration has opened horizons to exploitation.

Seabed mining is one such venture offering promises for the ‘green revolution’ but also fundamental threats to biodiversity hotspots such as hydrothermal vents. Verena Tunnicliffe – Professor Emerita, Dept of Biology and School of Earth & Ocean Sciences, University of Victoria – will be presenting her research at the Cowichan Valley Naturalists’ Society

meeting at 9:30 am April 4th.

Email cvns@naturecowichan. net for the zoom link.

Verena Tunnicliffe – Professor Emerita, Dept of Biology and School of Earth & Ocean Sciences, University of Victoria – is a marine biologist who held a Canada Research Chair in Deep Ocean Research at UVic until her retirement in 2020. In December 2021, Dr. Tunnicliffe was named an officer of the Order of Canada “for her outstanding contributions to ocean sciences and for being a pioneer in the scientific exploration of the deep sea.”

Verena combines a drive for ocean exploration with a passion to understand the nature and functions of novel

communities. A lifetime of ocean exploration has stretched from coral reefs to subsea volcanoes making hundreds of dives with SCUBA and both manned and remotely operated submersibles. Her research in marine habitats in extreme conditions has retrieved over 100 new species especially associated with hydrothermal vents. For a decade, she helped to make the “Ocean On-line” a reality as Director of the subsea observatory, VENUS, where her program examined the impact of

climate change on coastal communities. She seeks new techniques to bring a greater depth of understanding of the ocean world to research, education and the public.

Current research focuses on deep ocean conservation, including environmental management around deep-sea mining.

April 4 9:30 am Cowichan Valley Naturalists’ presents Discovering the Deep: Life in our Last Wilderness, Email cvns@naturecowichan.net for the zoom link.

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Vehicle Electrification: Hybrid vs. Electric vs. Plug-In Hybrid

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Zak Stolk Violin Maker

25 Years Experience of Lutherie in the Italian Tradition.

Making, repair and restoration of Violins, Viola, Cello, Double Bass, Harp, and all manner of Stringed Instruments.

250-749-6563 zakviolins@shaw.ca www.zakviolins.com

Client Centred, Client Focused

FAIZAL CHARANIA

Licensed Real Estate Consultant RE/MAX of Duncan - Mill Bay 472 Trans Canada Highway Office: 250.748.7200 www.faizal.charania.remax.ca • Residential • Agri Business • Strata I mobile (250) 732.5250 60

ost manufacturers are offering more environmentally responsible products to reduce reliance on fossil fuels. Recently, Honda of Canada Mfg. (HCM) announced “that it will invest $1.38 billion over six years to upgrade its award-winning Alliston, ON, manufacturing plants. The plants will implement new and innovative technologies, processes, supply chain and vehicle research and development programs, as a part of Honda’s goal to reach zero emissions by 2040”. HCM is partnering with both the governments of Canada and Ontario, with each providing an equal contribution of $131.6 million. Some of Honda’s current electrified line-up includes the Accord Hybrid, the Clarity Plug-in Hybrid, and the CR-V Hybrid (coming to Canada this year).

So what exactly are the types of electrified vehicles?

A hybrid vehicle is 100% gasolinefueled but doesn’t rely solely on the engine for propulsion.

They also have electric motors that sometimes power the car in order to “delay” the gas engine.

At times both systems work together for added power. The electric motors act as generators when you press the brake, and the energy that’s regenerated during braking is stored in a small battery for immediate use the next time you accelerate. Hybrids are the most inexpensive type of electrified vehicle, and you don’t have to worry about plugging it in.

However, they don’t save as much gas as Plug-In Hybrids, and there is no rated electric range.

A plug-in hybrid vehicle (PHEV) is a gasoline-powered hybrid with a much larger battery and ability to

recharge it. A PHEV behaves much like an electric vehicle, with its gasoline engine essentially dormant when the battery has charge. The engine kicks in when the battery runs out, allowing the vehicle to run as a regular gasoline hybrid. It also uses regenerative braking to save fuel. They typically provide enough all-electric range to avoid using gas for daily driving. But you do need to plug them in regularly for them to make economic/ environmental sense. The gas engine allows for road trips where plug-in stations are unavailable.

They do cost more than regular hybrids.

An electric vehicle (EV) has a battery that is large enough and an electric motor that is powerful enough to provide range and performance without the need to include an engine or gas tank. They produce zero tailpipe emissions.

You need to consider home charging capability and you may experience “range-anxiety” for longer road trips. They are also more expensive.

It is important to consider Federal and Provincial point-of-purchase rebates on electrified vehicles which may help offset the higher price tags. There are different rebate amounts for the different types of electrified vehicles. If an electrified vehicle is not right for you, look at fuel efficiency ratings because they range considerably.

So do your research, talk to a knowledgeable Sales Consultant, and we can all contribute to lowering emissions!

Ray Anthony, Sales Consultant at Discovery Honda, 250-701-9568, ray@discoveryhonda.com

include minor cuts, bruises, abrasions and burns, which are far less severe than the injuries they prevent.

Airbags inflate incredibly quickly as there are sensors in the car that will detect a collision and send an electronic signal to a small ignitor device which provides enough heat to turn 130g of sodium azide into 67 litres of nitrogen gas thereby causing the bag to inflate. This whole process will inflate a car airbag in 0.05 seconds after the initial impact.

Airbags and Hearing Damage

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irbags reduce the likelihood of death or serious injury in the event of an automobile accident, which is why they have been required by law in all passenger vehicles sold in Canada since 1999.

Sometimes these life saving and injury preventing benefits come at the cost of less severe injury caused by the air bags themselves. Airbag injuries can

Because of the sound made by the ignition and the speed at which the airbag deploys, one possible type of injury that can be caused by airbag deployment is an injury to our ears.

Noise at a level of 85dB has the potential to permanently damage our hearing if we are exposed to it for a long enough period of time. As the noise gets louder, our hearing gets damaged in shorter exposure times. Airbags deploy with a bang of up to 178dB! It’s much louder than the loudest human voice shouting 1 inch from your ear or a jet plane taking off beside you. The saving grace is that the sound is present for only a small fraction of a second.

Injuries to our ears and hearing due to this high intensity noise could include eardrum rupture, tinnitus, sensorineural hearing loss (nerve damage), hyperacusis (extreme sensitivity to noise) and balance disorders. Dr. Richard Price, a U.S. based research audiologist published a study in 2007 that found that up to 17% of people involved in an

airbag deployment could suffer hearing loss.

Research on the exact number of people experiencing hearing injuries after airbag deployment is difficult because of the lack of baseline testing e.g. the general population does not get their hearing tested on a periodic basis.

At Resonance, we advocate for the importance of baseline testing and periodic monitoring of one’s hearing. This is important for several reasons and one of them is that if your hearing changes suddenly, you can compare to a baseline and can quantify the extent of the change.

Terence Miranda, AuD, RAUD, RHIP Doctor of Audiology Resonance Hearing Clinic www.resonance hearingclinic.com

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Just Another Indian A Serial Killer and Canada’s Indifference

by Warren Goulding (Excerpt) Early the next morning the nude and battered body of a Native woman was found in an alcove behind the old Number 1 firehall, not far from the Bridge Inn. Littered with soiled blankets and sordid garbage, it was a spot frequented by solvent sniffers and drunks. In the midst of it lay Mary Jane Serloin, her flesh disfigured by bruises and lacerations, and deep bite marks on her neck and breasts. A transient had stumbled upon her corpse, perhaps while going to the alcove to sleep or to relieve himself.

News of Mary Jane Serloin’s death generated two brief reports; both buried in the second section of the Lethbridge Herald, in the two editions following her death. On the Peigan reserve west of Fort Macleod, approximately seventy-five kilometres from Lethbridge, the news was received with more attention. Mary Jane’s sister, Justine English, was shattered by it. She knew her sister had been living on the wild side, but she had never thought it would come to this.

Almost as hard to bear as Mary Jane’s death was that no one seemed to care about it.

Officials never got in touch with Justine or any other members of the family. There was nothing in the media other than six column inches in the Herald, which seems peculiar, especially for a town unaccustomed to this sort of violence.

Even so, police in Lethbridge moved quickly to apprehend the killer. Less than eight hours after Mary Jane’s body had been found, officers picked up John Crawford at his parents’ home in north Lethbridge. The arrest was uneventful.

The young man offered no resistance. Police reports describe Crawford as “very quiet and very subdued.”

The death of Mary Jane Serloin in 1981 changed the life of Justine English forever.

She still calls it murder, refusing to accept that a brutal killing can be reduced to an act of manslaughter, even semantically. She states the obvious with natural eloquence: “We’re people too. We have feelings. Why are we so degraded by the system?” ~~~ An award-winning bestseller by Chemainus journalist Warren Goulding is enjoying renewed interest more than 20 years after it was first published.

Just Another Indian: A Serial Killer and Canada’s Indifference, released in 2001, chronicles the killing of four Indigenous women by serial killer John Martin Crawford. Goulding argued in the book that the murders went largely unnoticed by the national media and the general public because the victims were Indigenous.

“When I wrote the book, the issue of missing and murdered Indigenous women was barely on the radar,” Goulding recalls. “Sadly, Indigenous women are still being victimized at a rate far greater than other members of Canadian society.

The only positive that seems to have happened in recent years is that at least now we’re talking about the issue, there is more awareness.”

The National Inquiry into Missing and Murdered Indigenous Women and Girls released its final report in 2019 and that helped bring the issue to the public’s attention. Goulding says media coverage has also been more intense in the last decade as stories of the crimes of serial killers like Vancouver’s Willie Pickton have emerged.

Goulding says there has been a noticeable increase in sales of Just Another Indian: A Serial Killer and Canada’s Indifference. And partly because of the uptick in attention to this critical issue, the book will soon be available in BC Ferries bookshops.

Contact askewcreek.com for more information or to order a copy of Just Another Indian Or visit Books, Miniatures & More at 9774 Willow Street, Chemainus

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he recent discovery of remains at the sites of several Residential Schools shocked Canadians as they finally began to realize the horror of what had happened there. In Five Little Indians, Michelle Good humanizes this story, showing us the lives of children caught up in this atrocity, preventing them from remaining mere statistics in our minds.

This novel does not make for easy reading, neither in the scenes set in the school itself nor its aftermath as the former students struggle to put their lives back together.

We as readers can turn away, an option not open to those living with the trauma of the abuse they endured at these institutions. Persisting through the discomfort reveals a story of strong, loving, complex humans surviving unimaginable suffering.

Writing alternately from the point of view of each of the survivors, Good shows the damage wrought by the Residential School system not only on the children who attended them but on their communities left childless.

Intergenerational trauma radiates in both directions - parents wrestling with anger and guilt as they try unsuccessfully to save their children.

There is also hope in the book, as some of the children not only survive but emerge strong and resilient. Beyond

We We Should Read: Five Little Indians by Michelle Good the evils of the school there were agents of healing: an elder whose cabin in southern Saskatchewan becomes a refuge, a dog who provides unconditional love. One girl is encouraged to resist the efforts of the surrounding society to eradicate Indigenous people: “… you’re an indigenous flower.

Don’t ever think of yourself as a weed.”

This book holds truths which despite the Truth and Reconciliation process many Canadians have yet to fully see. Hopefully many will read it as it has been selected for this year’s Canada Reads.

The WBFC would go further and advocate for this book to be part of the high school curriculum.

Submitted by David & Ranji, on behalf of the WBFC

The Warmland Book & Film Collective – begun in 2018 as a response to the Calls to Action of the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada – explores, celebrates, and learns from Indigenous authors and filmmakers. We are welcoming new members – if you enjoy friendly, spirited, and interesting conversation, email us at WarmlandBFC@ gmail.com for the zoom link.

We next meet online April 13th to discuss Heart Berries: A Memoir by Terese Marie Mailhot.

Tony Turner Cowichan Folk Guild April Coffee House Tony Turner’s life-affirming, articulate folk-pop melodies are beautifully delivered with his rich baritone voice. Along with musical portraits of love, nature and regular working folk, Turner’s songs are as diverse as this country. From Circle of Song, his much-loved anthem of unity recently published in Rise Again, to his award-winning sing-along Harperman, Turner channels the mood of the times and the ties that bind. Saturday, April 9 7:30 PM Duncan United Church Hall 246 Ingram Street, Duncan $5 / $10 www.cowichanfolkguild.ca

TEN OLD BOOKS

Always something for everyone

Great Selection of Used & New Books Bestsellers & Award Winners Classic Novels & Timeless Favourites BC & Canadian Authors Plus Local Cards • Crafts • Children’s Books • Jewelry • Gift Ideas and More!

102-330 Duncan St 250 -715-1383 Find us inside the historic Duncan Garage

Shift Intuitive/Psychic Readings “Leigh is a very gifted psychic. I was in a transitional time in my life when I first met Leigh for a reading. She was able to translate what she was “getting” into concrete and practical applications for my life. That reading helped me to move forward with confidence that I was in the right place at the right time.” - Denise

Call 250-619-3815 or email Leigh at: shift123@shaw.ca 63

Black Seed Oil The Universal Healer 15% OFF IN APRIL

HIGHEST THYMOQUINONE CONTENT AVAILABLE 250-748-4421 4-180 Central Rd, Duncan - Village Green Mall www.lynnsvitamingallery.ca

Traditional Chinese Exercise for Health All Classes in the Cowichan Valley *unless stated Wild Goose Qigong (Chi Gong) Gentle movement • Calms your mind • Heals internal organs • Develops flexibility Mondays 9 -10 am Tuesdays 6 pm - 7 pm (combined Qigong and Chun Yuen) Wednesdays 10-11:15 am Fridays 10-11:15 am (Victoria)*

Northern Shaolin Chun Yuen Quan

Dynamic movement • Improves posture • Increases energy • Strengthens bones Tuesdays 6 pm - 7 pm (combined Qigong and Chun Yuen)* Wednesdays 9 am - 10 am

250 748 4060 rivendellrhythm@shaw.ca

www.WildGooseQigongCentre.com 64

B

lack seed oil, or Nigella Sativa, has been around since the beginning of recorded history, both as a medicine and a food. It was used by ancient Egyptian and Ayurvedic physicians for calming upset stomachs, coughs, and fever, and as a beauty aid. Many studies have been done on it in these more modern times, with over 500 medical papers published.

It is an amazingly diverse supplement, sometimes referred to as “panacea”, or universal healer.

Black seed oil is high in antioxidants, which are important for health. They reduce oxidative stress in the body and protect against the cell damage which is part of the aging process. They have been shown to reduce inflammation, and protect against conditions like heart disease, Alzheimer’s, and cancer. One of its active ingredients, thymoquinone, may help in treating asthma by reducing inflammation and relaxing muscles in the airway.

Studies have been done with individuals who suffer from type 2 diabetes which show that black seed oil can significantly reduce fasting blood sugar levels. It

may also help lower blood pressure and reduce harmful cholesterol over time, and has proven itself helpful to individuals who are trying to lose weight.

Other potential benefits being looked into include use as an anti carcinogenic, the ability to reduce the symptoms of rheumatoid arthritis, a boost to brain health and memory, as well as an antifungal and antibacterial. It has been used to help relieve bronchitis, soothe colic in babies, and reduce depression or lethargy.

Used topically, it can be helpful in treating skin issues like rashes, eczema, and dandruff, just to name a few.

Enerex has added Vitamin E to their black seed oil, which provides added antioxidant and anticarginogenic benefits, as well as the cardiovascular support it is known for. Between that and the more than one hundred active chemical compounds contained in black seed oil, this makes it a useful and versatile addition to any natural medicine cupboard.

Enerex black seed oil can be found at quality health food stores such as Lynn’s Vitamin Gallery in Duncan.

SCREEN TIME Dr Bill Nielsen has been practising in Duncan for thirty years

T

ogether, we did it! Over $500,000 Raised for 3D Mammography Equipment for Cowichan.

Congratulations, and thank-you to all. Your generosity keeps our hospital state-of-the-art. The 3D Mammography Unit is great because, as part of the screening protocol, it detects breast cancers early and often saves women from needing chemo and radiation. Mammography is safe and accurate and saves lives because breast cancer is common and curable when caught early.

The right time for Screen Time What actually is screening?

Which cancers does screening help with?

Screening is a specific medical term. Screening assesses large numbers of people with no signs or symptoms of those common cancers. Only a few cancers are amenable to screening.

For example, breast and colon and cervical cancer are so common a lot of us are going to get them. They are curable.

Why not catch them early so we can nip them in the bud?

Test accuracy is everything.

Tests must be sensitive enough to identify the disease 95% of the time if it is there, but not be positive if the disease isn’t. Obviously there is no use screening for an

illness that is incurable, very rare, or requires expensive, painful or dangerous screening tests.

Consult your doctor for what is best for you personally, as screening recommendations vary by age, family history and which tests are available.

Here’s what to get screened if you don’t have a family doctor to advise you: Cervical cancer by PAP smears every three years, starting age 25.

Breast cancer by monthly self exam, yearly doctor visits and mammograms every 1-2 years starting age 40 or 50 up to age 74, depending on your personal risk factors.

Colon cancer with FIT tests (home stool tests) every two years after 50 and colonoscopy for a positive FIT test. If a family member had colon cancer, colonoscopy is every five years starting ten years younger that the relative was when they got cancer.

Colonoscopy is a scope up the bum with you sedated in hospital. No fun for patients, but saving lives is lots of fun for doctors and nurses.

Prostate cancer with rectal exams and PSA blood tests every 1-2 years, ages 50 – 72 depending on family history.

Yearly check–up: The physical exam and tests at your yearly medical checkup look for diabetes, anemia, heart and kidney disease, and some types of cancers.

If you have swollen glands that don’t go down within six weeks, or an unusual mole, show your health care provider. Unexplained bleeding from anywhere needs to be checked out ASAP.

REIKI WELLNESS 250-743-8122 Debbie Shkuratoff Reiki Master-Teacher-All Levels Usui-Karuna-Komyo-Seichim

SARA TILLIE ACUPUNCTURE 250-812-9813 Sara Tillie Registered Acupuncturist Traditional Chinese Medicine

Reiki Therapy & Classes - Detox Foot Spas Acupuncture - Amethyst Mat - YL Essential Oils Daytime • Evening •Weekend • By Appointment Only #13- Upper Level • Valleyview Centre • Cobble Hill www.reikiwellness.ca • reiki-wellness@shaw.ca

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appy Spring! The month of April has arrived, as has my renewed focus to inspire others to use Bach flower remedies to work through the layers of grief and sadness that come with losing a loved one. The two year anniversary of my Mom Wilma Johannesma’s passing is April 1st — April Fool’s Day! It’s been emotional and lonely at times for sure, I have felt deep grief and I sure do miss my Mom and our close relationship.

Bach Flower remedies have been tremendously helpful to me in soothing my grief and raw emotions over the last two years. Although grief is part of being human, it’s something that one never gets used to. Rather, it is an experience to live along side with, and an important time to lean on tools and remedies, especially gems like Bach flowers for emotional healing.

Bach Flower remedies were developed by Dr. Edward Bach (1886–1936) a very inspiring healer who was an accomplished

Honouring How We Feel...

British Doctor, Bacteriologist, Homeopath, Spiritual Writer and Pathologist. By looking at the personality of the person and their emotional state, instead of the dis-ease or symptom, Dr. Bach believed true healing with Nature can occur through the

organic craft coffee and mmmore by the sea across from Salt Spring ferry terminal

1532 CHAPLIN ST, CROFTON

1-778-554-5434 I tarynogormandesigns.com 66

use of gentle flower remedies.

Starting in 1930, Dr. Bach began collecting plants and flowers and devoted much of his life to developing a system of medicine aimed at a particular mental state or emotion. Dr. Bach developed a total of 38 flower remedies and divided them into 7 groups: Fear, Uncertainty, Lack of Interest in Present Circumstances, Loneliness, Despondency & Despair, Over-sensitivity and Over-care for Others.

Sometimes I use Bach Rescue Remedy, a fabulous ‘go to’ remedy of a five-flower blend for acute stress, trauma, anxiety. I made myself a personal mix for grief and sadness to give comfort including the following remedies: Walnut (my favourite remedy) for protection, change and transitions, and to aid in breaking links with the past...

Pine remedy for working through guilt and shame, providing some selfacceptance.

The remedy Mustard has helped with sadness,

gloom and despair and to give me some peace of mind and hope. Honeysuckle is for dwelling in the past and helps me to let go, move on and focus being in the present. Willow is for resentment, self pity and bitterness… honest feelings to have following such a big shock and loss of a key person in my life. This remedy assists with the ability to forgive and forget, and can provide optimism and more joy. The last remedy for my mix is Star of Bethlehem for distress and unhappiness following shock, trauma and grief and provides comfort and consolation, neutralizing the effects of shock. This remedy is also in the Rescue Remedy blend.

I have come to a place of peace about my Mom’s transition, and I feel more connected to her than ever in some ways which gives me great comfort. I am grateful to work through emotions for real healing and to Dr. Bach for such amazing remedies to assist the sometimes painful process.

It is also deeply rewarding to help myself and others peel the layers of the ‘emotional onion’ to discover our true selves through personal honesty about how we’re feeling using Bach flower remedies.

I happily offer Bach flower remedy consultations that include a personal questionnaire to help guide your choices for appropriate remedies. I create a personal blend of remedies based on your remedy choices, lasting three weeks, taking 4 drops 4x a day as a daily practice of focused self care. If you would like to learn more about a personal Bach flower remedy, please be in touch by email to afreshstart@shaw.ca or call Diana at 250 597-2102.

Bright Spring blessings and happy planting!

Diana Pink is a Holistic Health Mentor, offering ways to detox and balance your life to restore vitality and health.

inquiry. Some heal through regression to key points in early childhood, and the release of trapped emotions which have become toxic and stuck.

Heart-Centred Hypnotherapy (HCH) can then work with the nervous system in a gentle meditative state to resolve and re-wire these overwhelming experiences, life-long patterns, and physical conditions.

A modern version of the ancient form of hypnosis, integrated with a group of powerful psychotherapy techniques, HCH is a way of working very directly with the effect of traumatic and corrective experiences on the nervous system, creating a potent, pivotal change in a person's outcome and ultimate experience of life.

HUMAN DESIGN SYSTEM

Heart-Centred Counselling + Hypnotherapy

H

eart-Centred Counselling values the wideangled, heart-centred space of the practitioner and the phenomenon of shared and co-created space, as much as any intervention, viewing each client as the ultimate expert on what is needed for resolution.

The Heart-Centered approach has been developed and refined for the last 40 years,

by Diane Zimberoff, MA, LMFT, and David Hartman, MSW, at The Wellness Institute, in Washington, USA. Graduates are now practicing in Canada, the USA, Turkey, South Africa, Taiwan, Kuwait, Turkey, Denmark, Mexico, and more.

"In talk therapy and other theories," says Zimberoff, "we have spent years communicating with the conscious mind. As HeartCentred clinicians, we have learned to proceed slowly and listen carefully to the revelations of the deeper mind, body and spirit."

Each pathway to resolution is unique, with its own rhythm, images, resources and inner experiences. Some people find resolution in the speaking of their story out loud, in the transformative power of compassionate

Prior to certification, Jude Wong spent a decade immersed in experiential training, group and individual therapeutic processes, including Systemic Constellations, Compassionate Communication (NVC), Mindfulness and group practices at The Wellness Institute. She is currently working under supervision with the Canadian Professional Counsellors Association.

Free 30-minute consultations and introductions with Jude are available online or at the Cowichan Valley Holistic Centre. While under supervision, her sliding scale fee is $50-110/hr. More information at www.sessionspace.ca.

Submitted by Jude Wong

• Would you like to discover and embrace your true nature?

• Spring into a new awareness of your inner growth?

Cathy has been studying and living her design for 10 years. Certified Professional Human Design Analyst I invite you to be in touch with any questions, lets chat about HD! crystalclearawakening@gmail.com

www.crystalclearawakening.com 67

Spiritual Upliftment and Conversation

Contributing to Positive Social Change Join us in offering prayers for the healing and upliftment of the world, and conversation on topics that support the establishment of unity and peace.

We are three local Baha’i friends who meet on Zoom from 7:15 to 8:30 on the 2nd and 4th Wednesdays of the month.

All are invited and welcome, whatever your spiritual path.

Please call us for details and link: Tim/Laurice Mock, Lee Masters – (250) 748-2585

April Topics April 13: Raising Protagonists for Social Change Part 1 April 27: Raising Protagonists for Social Change Part 2 So powerful is the light of unity that it can illuminate the whole earth.

Baháʼu’lláh 68

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ike so many, my life is full. It’s filled with family, work around our small farm, walking our dog, daily domestic chores, time with friends and service in various forms. I often think about how I might make more effective use of my service or volunteer time to better ends.

I am often pulled to address the latest burning issue that arises locally or appears on one of my social media feeds, sometimes leaving behind the issue I just focused on.

There are always so many issues calling to be addressed.

I wonder if there might be a better way.

It’s encouraging to see so many examples of positive social action taking place in our communities. Individual initiatives such as providing meals to the homeless as well as the extensive ongoing work of not-for-profit organizations and socially oriented businesses providing much needed support to address current needs. This is great!

I think it is also critically important to focus some time and attention on positive social change in general, such as building stronger neighbourhoods and communities.

I have witnessed societybuilding power in action where initially a small group of citizens work together to address needs identified at the grass roots of a community.

Many more friends join in, and capacity is built when everyone is held as able to be a protagonist for the change they seek and they all walk the path of service together.

‘Abdu’l-Bahá, the son of Baháʼu’lláh (prophet/founder of the Baha’i Faith), and the designated interpreter of his father’s writings explains that the more the qualities of cooperation and mutual assistance are manifested by a people, “the more will human society advance in progress and prosperity.” As more people are willing to divest themselves of partisanship and/or the need for power and instead strive to transcend differences, harmonize their perspectives with others and use consultative methods in making decisions, anything is possible.

Submitted by Tim Mock

How does chanting benefit you?

1. By listening. The energy of sound expressing music and healing words make every molecule and living cell resonate with healing energy 2. By chanting. Our voice now amplifies the sound vibrations especially in our vital organs and creates cleansing and healing energy.

3. By dancing. This incorporates to an even larger extent the energy and distributes it throughout our physical body, our mind, and our emotions.

Water molecules become mandalas when exposed to harmonious sounds like music, singing, or compassionate speech. Our body is at least 80% water. Therefore chanting creates beautiful harmonious molecules throughout our physical body and consequently our living cells.

And, besides all that, chanting is fun, harmonious, feels great, connects to everybody present, is relaxing, meditative, creative, and great for a healthy body, mind, emotions, and your spirit.

LOVE’S TRIANGLE – authentic kirtan chanting, performance, video presentations. *Stay tuned for a live performance coming in May. Details to follow.* LOVE’S TRIANGLE Karen Allen: Guitar, Frame Drum Arie Vander Reyden: Harmonium, Drum Contact: lovestriangle108@gmail.com YouTube: https://bit.ly/3i5wZ4g 69

Filipa and Vítor on the road

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unrise Waldorf School alumni and families are proud to be following the volunteer work of former SWS kindergarten teacher Filipa Santos and her partner Vítor Andrade who are part of a Portuguese civil society initiative called ‘Humanitarian Caravan’ on an urgent mission to transport much needed supplies to areas in Poland near the

On The Road... Tales From a Humanitarian Mission to help Ukrainian Refugees in Europe

Ukrainian border. This first leg of the mission consists of over 3,000 km of road time across Europe through Spain, France, Belgium and Germany until they finally arrive to an unused office space in Poland where all the supplies are organized into kits for those in need.

Each van is filled to the brim with food, water, baby formula, medication, clothing, diapers and anything else needed.

These supplies are all collected and purchased in Portugal through donations and contributions. Upon arrival the caravan “Driving south in France, here’s what one truck of 10-13 vans who in front of us decided to write on the back.”

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Filipa with a new 11 year old friend whose family they transporting to Portugal.

travel together are met by Ukrainian volunteers and everyone helps each other unload the supplies they have brought to make room for the return journey with vans full of Ukranians seeking asylum in Portugal.

“Today we met a mother and 2 children, age 5 and 10 who flees the war

Their van stuffed to the brim with donated and purchased supplies destined for Poland to distribute to Ukrainian refugees.

in Ukraine. The mother told us that her children did not know there was a war going on. She did not allow them to watch the news, radio, etc. and sheltered them from anxiety and despair. She told them they were going on an adventure to Portugal (where they had never been before), and part of the adventure was that there were several people who would take them from point A to point

Two Ukrainian children, 10 and 5 who are on an adventure to Portugal with their mother.

B. Reminds me of a beautiful film Life is Beautiful.

Despite the situation, what fortunate children to have this mother!”shares Filipa.

Filipa and Vítor with their first van of Ukrainian passengers being transported to Portugal.

On their second return journey to Portugal she shares this heartfelt story.

“On our trip back, we had just stopped at a rest stop at the gas station and were back in our vehicles. A man we didn’t know came and knocked on the driver side window. “Are these Ukrainian people?” he asked.

“Yes.” (Our vans are identified with the Portuguese and Ukrainian flags, saying humanitarian help) He then spoke what I thought was Ukrainian directly to the refugees with us.

They responded “four” (in Ukrainian). He turns to them and hands 4x50€ bills, smiles and walks away. They explained to me that he had asked how many children they had, and offered 50 € (Euros) to each. I was then told that he wasn’t speaking with them in Ukrainian. He was speaking in Russian. My jaw dropped.”

Each return journey logs over 7,100 km of driving and takes approximately five days. Filipa and Vítor share the driving. One sleeps, while the other drives enabling them to arrive with supplies as soon as possible and turn around to ferry passengers back to Portugal. “We arrive exhausted, and yet completely moved by this life changing experience. The hugs we received as these families left, the gratitude and tears in their eyes, the hope they come with is very different than when

we picked them up in Poland.

We cannot help but respond to the demand of over 1000 refugees, duly identified, who are there waiting for us. A quick rest at home and then its time to do the mission again.”

Filipa and Vítor’s act of humanitarianism to help people fleeing from Russian military attacks on Ukraine one van load at a time is an inspiration to all.

The Humanitarian Caravan is a 100% voluntary effort and each van, between fuel, toll and food for the refugees on the return journey requires approximately 2000€. Any and all contributions are greatly appreciated to assist them to continue their work.

As of this issue’s print deadline Filipa and Vítor were getting ready to leave for another return journey with a new van load of supplies and a new set of Ukrainaian refugees to transport home with them to Portugal. The Cowichan Waldorf community are so grateful to them for stepping up and helping humanity with this important work.

If you are interested in contributing to the efforts of Filipa and Vítor please contact us at info@ cowichanvalleyvoice.com for more information.

Sheila Badman

Grief is Love that has Nowhere to Go Spirit Journaling Exercise “Grief is love that has nowhere to go” what a powerful phrase!

When one is grieving there is no words or emotions that can express what one is experiencing because we all grieve differently. This is unique to each individual and should never be judged by another.

When we lose somebody, we tend to experience this as a solo experience. We might feel isolated in our emotional, spiritual and mental capacities.

Others will automatically go into the fear zone of survival, regret, or guilt. Grief has so many faces.

Understand that the feeling of grieving should never be anyone’s priority but your own.

That sadness is the place of understanding your spiritual journey. Grief is just love that has nowhere to go.

This “Spirit Journaling” exercise is about finding ways to express the emotions of the grieving. To allow yourself permission to go through these emotions in sacred time, understanding that you have a love that just needs a place to go.

Journaling Prompt: Prep your sacred space for journaling - light a candle and play some music.

Take a moment to ground your energy - close your eyes.

With your eyes closed, breathe in the essence of yourself at this moment.

Take a deep breath in through your nose.

Focus on yourself at this

moment and when you’re ready blow it out through your mouth.

Do this 3 times, each time blowing out any fear-based thoughts about grieving.

First Step: Begin by writing a letter to the person that you are grieving.

Be authentic and expressive.

Process your feelings of sadness, guilt, regret, anger, or confusion.

Write through these emotions.

When you are done close your journal.

Proceed to Step 2 when you are ready.

There is no timeline for this exercise. Grieving can take weeks, months or years. Repeat Step 1 as many times as you like and do Step 2 when you feel you are ready.

Second Step: Open your journal to a clean page.

Write the word love at the top of the page.

Connect with your soul and intuitive voice.

Begin to write from this place of love and understanding.

Write about all the ways you can give your love a healthy place to go.

Go deep about how to share this love.

What does this feel and look like?

Love is eternal. Love is meant to be shared and given freely.

Do not let grieving rob you of the closest vibration you have to your God. This is your connection to your loved ones in spirit.

With Love and Gratitude Happy Spirit Journaling

Angel Jury - Modern Day Oracle Spiritual Advisor * Intuitive Psychic * Spiritual Medium * Card Reader

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CPABC March 9, 2022 Vancouver Island Housing Starts: “The largest increase was for attached units, such as condos, townhomes, and apartments.”

Much of the increase in new construction and home inventory that we see on Vancouver Island, is condominiums, not single family homes.

BEN SURES April 30 Providence Farm

B

en Sures is a singing troubadour, a dazzling acoustic guitarist, humorous, heartfelt story teller who plays folk, blues, roots, Americana, comedy and rock.

He’s a balladeer, country picker, funny songwriter, slide player and a crooner,.

Ben Sures is a talented and distinctive songwriter shaped by travelling across North America, the UK, Europe and Beirut. Throw in 20 years of festivals, concerts, living rooms, bars, neighbourhood parties, afternoon matinees and multioutdoor shows and you’ve got a potent sonic recipe.

Providence Farm Acoustic Chapel Series, Saturday, April 30 at 7:30pm Tix; $20/$25 www.cowichanfolkguild.ca

Is Now a Good Time to Buy or Sell a Home?

HGTV shows talk about loving or leaving it. These shows are entertaining, but not reality when it comes to today’s building budgets and housing prices in Canada.

prices will keep climbing, though at a slower pace. Most of that increase in supply and cooling off the market will take place in the second half of this year. “

RBC Economics: 2022 Canada Real Estate Market Forecast: “Plenty of unmet demand remains and will continue to fuel tremendous activity across the country. Still, we expect the Bank of Canada’s rate lift off to turn down the market’s heat in 2022 as deteriorating affordability sends buyers to the sidelines.”…..“Home

British Columbia’s Real Estate Association, Feb. 2, 2022, Chief Economist: “The BC housing market is entering 2022 with the lowest level of active listings on record and significant demand-side momentum. That means strong sales should persist through the first few months of the year and supply will remain severely limited. As a result, continued upward pressure on home prices is expected in all markets.”

These two sources agree that the first part of the year will experience the same type of buying frenzy as last year until increased interest rates may slow things down.

ce

My opinion; should I sell my home now or wait for market changes? If you are Seller and particularly a down-sizer, now is a good time to sell your single family home. If you are planning on buying, moving to a larger home and can qualify for a new mortgage - buy now, as housing prices will continue to increase until at least 2023.

Next year may have more favourable conditions to buy, but no one can really predict.

If you are waiting to buy when housing prices decrease, you may be waiting for years or forever. There is no indication that prices will go down in the near future with low inventory on Vancouver Island, in general and also considering global migration. More people will move to Canada and BC. Hang onto real estate investments or buy into the real estate market.

If you would like more information, please contact Vida Glaser, an experienced REALTOR living in the Cowichan Valley, helping people buy and sell homes in Victoria and on Vancouver Island.

Prioritize your future with a free financial review!

Kristy Landry | Financial Advisor | (250) 743-1259 | Kristy.Landry@edwardjones.com

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www.edwardjones.ca

LUCKY DOG I got a new dog!

D

Debbie Wood owns Lucky Dog U-Bath.

She can be found on trails in the Cowichan Valley with her BF, Bonnie.

uring the Great Covid Puppy phenomenon I too was searching for the perfect pup. After calling up all my contacts and a few perfect strangers I gave up and saw the benefits of having just my one older Labrador. So calm and quiet.

During that time my doggy daycare was standing room only with pups of all types.

In that ball of coats of many

colours was a pup I fell in love with. Relic was good natured, with a sweet disposition.

Smart, agile, and ready to please, he had my heart within no time. He was from a great home and I was happy for him.

Best of all, he was one of the pups in daycare that my old Lab tolerated.

I mentioned to Relic’s human that if her circumstances ever changed, I’d take him…. Her circumstances changed. I took him home when he was ten months old. I had immediate buyer’s remorse. Can I do this again? Can Bonnie the Lab do this? Can my husband? Like the first day of ski season, will I remember how to get off the chairlift? But Relic shone through.

Bonnie stepped up her pace on our twice daily walkies and now she does half of the training. I’ve had overlapping dogs for over thirty years and having the older dog help with manners makes life so much easier.

I had his DNA done, so I have a better idea of what I’m working with.

I switched him to raw food. I signed him up for agility (starting in April).

I pulled my old dog training books off the shelf and brushed up on my skills. We do regular back-yard training and Relic is a wonder dog.

I take him to every new place I can think of to keep his mind alert and expand his world. Long Beach, hotel rooms, the Farmer’s Market, rides in different cars, going into stores, the

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suspension bridge at Bright Angel, and lots of fresh new walking trails.

We occasionally run into his “ex” in the dog park and Relic is thrilled to see her. He’s also happy to trot off with Bonnie and me when we’ve finished chatting. She takes him for sleepovers when I’m out of

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town. I’m so fortunate.

I’ve only purchased one dog in my adult life, six more have landed in my lap at the perfect moment with the perfect temperament that I needed at the time. I’m now confident that I can do this again. I’ve jumped off the chairlift and the view is amazing.

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T

he world of Crystals is a vast and mysterious one- it’s easy to understand how it could feel intimidating or overwhelming for those new to this realm.

While I believe there isn’t really a right or wrong way to choose a crystalhere is a little guide on different ways to choose stones for you or loved ones:

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David McCauley (778) 5877996 I SaoirsesProject@gmail.com www.SaoirsesProject.com

A Beginner’s Guide to Choosing Crystals

By Color- choosing crystals can be as simple as selecting the ones that are your favorite colors or matching/complimenting them to the colors in the space they will live in (bedroom, office, living room, etc.).

Love pink? Perhaps Rose quartz or Kunzite are just what you want.

By Intuition- is there a stone that catches your eye more than others or that you feel strongly pulled to? Let your intuition guide you in choosing the perfect stoneoften the stones we are drawn to have the exact healing properties needed. Some believe it’s really the stones that choose us! Trust your inner guidance.

By Metaphysical Propertiescrystals each carry their own unique healing energy. You can choose crystals by these properties to receive the specific healing energy you are looking for. For example, if you are looking for a crystal to help with sleep, you may look at stones such as Lepidolite or Amethyst. There are numerous Crystal books and websites that break down

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the properties of each stone to help you find the healing energy you are looking for.

By Zodiac Signs or Elementscertain stones are attributed to your birth month/zodiac sign and different elements. If you are a Taurus or your birthday is in May- stones like Emerald, Sapphire or Agate are what to look for. If you want to connect to the energy of the elements, like Water for instance- you’ll want to look at stones like Larimar, Aquamarine, or Amazonite.

We can help you determine what the stones are for each month/zodiac/element.

Let the experience of choosing crystals be a nourishing and fun one- we are happy to assist you in finding exactly what you are looking for or what wants to choose you.

Venita Chow is an Integrative Energy Healer and Crystal Keeper at CFS for the SOUL- located upstairs in the Community Farm Store in Duncan, Open MondaySaturday 10am- 5pm.

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WORST in BC – specifically, Scotch broom is the invasive species causing the greatest harm to our Species at Risk (SAR).

And yet, there it is, growing right outside our windows. This is not an aesthetic issue.

Invasive species are the 2nd greatest threat to biodiversity on earth. So, what can we do?

CUT BROOM IN BLOOM

I

t’s April. Soon many roadsides will be bright yellow with the prolific blooms of Scotch broom.

The flower is lovely, but the plant is not our friend. A recent report by the Invasive Species Council of BC designated this alien invasive plant as THE

CUT Broom in Bloom.

Eradicating some invasive plants requires herbicides, but broom only requires YOU. The most effective way to get rid of broom is to cut the stem with loppers, even with the ground, in April and May. Don’t pull, mow or excavate. Seeds are the problem – not the roots.

Why should we care? Scotch

broom is an alien in our midst, with no natural controls. It forms dense thickets that crowd out native plants, it’s toxic to wildlife, it prevents forests from regrowing, and it quickly takes over roadsides, farms, parks and cleared forest land. Dead or alive, broom dramatically increases the danger of wildfires.

Many communities have successfully cleared their roads and properties since Broombusters started in 2006.

There are also other groups working hard to cut broom.

Broombuster volunteers alone cut over 7000 hours in 2021!

All it takes is willing volunteers.

It feels really good to see grasses, small trees and native plants return once the broom is removed.

There are already active groups near Chemainus, Maple Bay, Stony Hill, Lake Cowichan, and others. You can initiate clearing

broom where you live. We don’t want this fire hazard near our homes. This is one problem we can solve, together. But beware: Broombusting is addicting!

Key points to remember for April: 1. CUT Broom in Bloom. Go after new infestations first. Stop the spread.

2. Watch videos on broombusters.org to learn winning techniques.

3. Reach out to your friends or join with others.

4. Reach out to Broombusters before you begin. We’ll connect you to someone local for guidance, tools and to help arrange broom disposal.

Cut Broom in Bloom. It works! www.broombusters.org Submitted By Joanne Sales, Executive Director of Broombusters

BAD

COMICS

by Shiloh Badman

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Georgia Nicols M.A. Georgia’s book, You and Your Future is a best seller with international printings in 3 languages. georgianicols.com

Aries (March 21- April 19) It’s that time again when the Sun is in your sign, which is your best chance to rejuvenate yourself and recharge your batteries for the rest of the year. Naturally, your focus of attention will be more personal and on yourself, and that’s exactly as it should be. You will project yourself with more forcefulness than usual, which is why this is a great time to make a strong impression on others. Because you are personally empowered, it’s best to work alone or run the show.

(You’ll be less of a team player in the next few weeks.)

Taurus (April 20-May 20) Right now your personal year is ending because your birthday is a month away. This means that this month is the perfect time to keep a low profile and give serious thought to what you want for yourself in the year ahead. (Birthday to birthday.) Goals are important right now because this is a time of harvest in your life. Many cherished dreams are coming true. In addition, now you can now see clearly what is working in your life and what is not.

Gemini (May 21-June 20) You’re heading into a lovely month that will increase your popularity and heighten your interest in groups, clubs and organizations. According to the Mayo Clinic, friendships enrich your life and improve your health. However, better to be alone than in bad company!

This is because your friends will influence your mind and your thinking; and it’s your mind that makes the decisions that determine your future.

In this way, your friends can actually affect your entire life! Therefore, hang out with people who want the best for you.

Cancer (June 21- July 22) This month, the Sun will travel across the top of your chart.

(This is the only time all year this happens.) This is wonderful news because it symbolizes that you are in the spotlight, and that others admire you.

This will happen even if you

don’t do anything different or special. It’s like magic. (Chalk it up to smoke and mirrors.)

Nevertheless, this influence is a reality, which means you can use it to your advantage.

Obviously, now is the time to go after what you want and make your pitch. Make hay while the Sun shines!

Leo (July 23-Aug. 22) Do what you can to broaden your horizons this month. Take up a new study. Explore new and unfamiliar experiences.

Meet people from different backgrounds. Grab every chance to travel or change your surroundings so that you feel invigorated by something new and fresh. Even the most trivial encounter might be stimulating. Basically, the theme for this month ahead is that you want to break free from your usual routine and go somewhere where you can learn something new. For some of you, you might be more involved with the law or legal matters.

Virgo (Aug. 23-Sept. 22) Count on feeling more intense and passionate about every aspect of your life this month.

You might even notice strange compulsions surfacing. You might meet someone who causes you to do some serious soul-searching, which could force changes in your life.

They might even challenge your values or make you rethink what you thought was

important. You will also have a greater concern for finances, resources and property that is jointly held. Perhaps you are trying to borrow money or get financial backing? Stay chill.

Libra (Sept. 23-Oct. 22) This month the Sun will be opposite your sign. In your chart, this means the Sun will be as far away from you as it can get all year. Because the Sun is your source of energy, this means that you will feel more tired than usual. Ergo, get more sleep. This polarized position of the Sun will also increase your focus on close friends and partners. The good news is it will give you more objectivity as you view these relationships, which means you will have a better chance to see how to improve the relationship.

Scorpio (Oct. 23-Nov. 21) You will be more competent, more energetic and driven to be more organized this month.

Basically, you will strive to make every action count. You will refine your techniques and sharpen your approach to be efficient, effective and productive. Increased activity on the home front or within your family will create some speed bumps this week. You will also be into redecorating and making things look nicer at home. You might focus on your health more than usual including your interaction with a pet. “Wanna treat?”

Sagittarius (Nov. 22-Dec. 21) Oh joy! This month brings you happy times because the Sun is travelling through one of the most fun parts of your chart.

You will want to get out and have a good time! You’ll feel lighter, happier and eager to explore amusing diversions. This is a great window to enjoy a vacation, as well as fun outings.

You might be more involved than usual with children.

Certainly, your attitude toward your relationships will be lighter and for some, new romance will begin.

Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan. 19) Your attention will shift to home, family and your private life this month. Some of you will be more involved than usual with a parent. Grab every opportunity to go off by yourself and spend some time in contemplation.

Cocoon at home because this will feel good and it will replenish you. Maybe memories of your past, as well as thinking about personal self-evaluation will occur. You’re keen to work hard to earn money, and you’re spending it on beautiful things as well.

Aquarius (Jan. 20-Feb. 18) The pace of your days will accelerate this month. Suddenly, you’ve got things to do, places to go and people to see! This same window of time will be great to learn new things or explore new avenues through reading, writing and studying.

You might also be more involved with siblings and relatives. However, be aware that with Mars in your sign, you’re coming on a bit strong and this is bound to trigger conflict with others. What’s more important? Being right or being in the relationship?

Pisces (Feb. 19-March 20) Money and finances are on your mind this month. You might consider a new job offer or ponder moneymaking ideas?

You will also be busy more than usual with your possessions. At a subtle level, you will be giving more thought to your values in life. In other words, what really matters? (So important to know.)

Some angst might be triggered by something going on behind the scenes. “I’m going to have a serious shower argument with myself.” (Ah yes, those shower arguments when you have the perfect response to stun your opponent.) www.georgianicols.com

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DIRECTORY

A great way to discover local services and businesses.

2 sizes of ad space are available to suit every business message and budget. Affordable, stylish and straight to O F L O C A L S E R V I C E S the point.

Directory Size A - 1 logo + 8-12 word listing Full Colour 1 X $63 6X $53 12X $43 Black & White 1 X $52 6X $42 12X $32 Contact us at sales@cowichanvalleyvoice.com for more information about print ads or to book a directory listing for the next issue. Deadline April 15 for May 2022 Issue 162.

Advertising

Contact Group re 5G

Monthly Print Advertising Reach the locals!

Contact us at info@cowichanvalleyvoice.com

A concerned group “Cowichan Citizens for Safe Technology” has printed materials related to safe technology use. To connect with current information re radiation concerns drop

by Thursday at noon at Glow for any in person updates.

Art Classes

The Clay Hub Collective

Trial By Fire Pottery Studio

Pottery Classes and Open Studio see website for details

2 Week Wheel Classes

Hilary Huntley

www.trialbyfirepottery.ca I 250-710-8758 www.trialbyfirepottery.ca Beauty

www.theclayhubcollective.com Art Glass Victoria

Prudence

GLASS ART SUPPLIES GLASS ART CLASSES STUDIO DROP IN KILN RENTAL 566 David Street, Victoria I 250-382-9554

Natural Skincare & Cosmetics

Open: Monday - Friday 10am - 5pm Sundays 12 - 4pm • 155 Craig Street, Downtown Duncan

www.vicartglass.com I www.glasscampus.com

www.prudencenaturalbeauty.ca

Specialized Consulting

Dog Grooming

Collaborative design towards ethical sustainability • workshops • consulting • grant writing terraethics@gmail.com

Lucky Dog U-Bath, Duncan Now accepting new grooming clients.

Book online www.luckydogubath.ca Or call 250-597-7364

Food More than a Meat Shop Gluten Free/Organic Pasta’s, Organic Meat, Homemade Sausage, International Foods.

The Duncan Butcher 430 Trans Canada Hwy 250 748 -6377

Help Wanted Love food and wine?

Unsworth Tasting Room and Restaurant are expanding our service teams in anticipation of another busy year. If you want to join the exciting food and wine culture of Cowichan email info@unsworthvineyards.com and come join the team 78

Holistic Health and Healing Bioenergetic Balancing with Magnets & Energy Healing * Boost the immune system *

Prevent illness & fatigue * Feel healthier

Kathryn Lowther - Biomagnetism & HUE Energy Healer 250-891-5138 www.biomagcanada.ca

Reflexology I Indian Head Massage Lymphatic Release Technique Enabling your body to heal itself, naturally.

naturalheelingreflexology.com Call Helga 250-732-7988

Hidden Gem Reiki Studio

Judy Johnstone, Reiki Master 250-661-0192 www.hiddengemreiki.com HYPNOTHERAPY

Linda Hay RN Certified Hypnotherapist Anxiety, Weight, Smoking, Phobias, Pain, Insomnia, Healing VIRTUAL SESSIONS MP3’S Free 30 min Consultation 236-464-6026 Info@lindahayhypnosis.com www.lindahayhypnosis.com

NOW ACCEPTING NEW CLIENTS $15 OFF FIRST TREATMENT Book online: unified.Jane app.com Unifiedhealth.ca 250.532.6362

Reflexology by Joy Relax and rejuvenate each and every part of your body, including the glands and organs. specializing in toes•calves•lower legs• knees jstalinski@shaw.ca I 250 246 1401

Ayurvedic Life Transformations

Uniquely Tailored Explorations Into The Self Coaching, Counselling, Yoga Therapies & Bodywork

Asrael 250 597 3973 www.ayurvedicbliss.com

Restore your digestive system with Colon Hydrotherapy.

Your health is the only wealth that matters!

Michelle Bird Colon Hydrotherapist

250-510-3540 Sol Centre 5380 Trans Canada Hwy, Duncan I www.thecleansingroom.com

Nutrition •Functional Medicine and Nutrition Consultations •Lab Assessments/Education •Individualized Lifestyle and Wellness Plans 250-931-0012 sageheartnutrition@gmail.com www.sageheartnutrition.wordpress.com

Website Design

Psychic

Modern Day Oracle * Spiritual Mediumship * Energy Healing

* Card Readings * Empowerment Sessions

Call Sacred Silence 250-710-5287 www.sacredsilence.net or facebook: Sacred Silence

Happy Earth Day!

We do not inherit the earth from our ancestors, we borrow it from our children.

Native American Proverb 79

NOW OPEN

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