November 2011

November 2011

ISSN 1920-820 0

Monthly guide to living in the Cowichan Valley

Issue 36

Beaver House Fudge

Fresh, Creamy, Home Made Fudge, made with Organic Cream and Butter - Sugar Free Fudge too!

250-748-6647 www.beaverhousefudge.com

Garrett Metal Detector Keene Mining Equipment

Junction Artists MarketBears in the Cupboard

- all shapes, sizes and colors various suggestions...

Bears are fed before guests arrive Every -Sunday so there is no biting or growlingVisiting hours are from 10AM to 5PM 11am -Friday 5pmthrough Sunday & Holiday Mondays 250 597-1418

April 17 - October 16th

Where everyone loves to stop!

Vendors contact

Deluxe Vacation Rental Accommodations

Includes a coastal hotsprings tour, whale watching (seasonally) and a 2 night stay in a beautiful waterfront vacation rental. $199 per person. Based on double occupancy.

See www.blueheronhouse.ca more info and to register please the Cowichan Bay Maritime Centre Goodcontact Oct 15 - Jan/2012 • Excludes holiday weekends and X-Mas. sit of $100.00 non-refundable unless the Cowichan Bay Maritime Centre els the class.

READY TO LEARN Susan Rankin HOW TO BUILD A BOAT?

David Skelhon will instruct 6 boat enthusiasts how to build a simple but elegant 15’, plywood rowing-dory.

Learn how to transfer dimensions from plans to materials, cut and join plywood, and mill fir and cedar to create parts of a boat.

By completion, you will have acquired the skills and confidence to assemble a similar boat of your own.

Course Fee: $295 member/$325 non member Dates: Thursdays and Tuesdays 6pm-9pm Course Runs: November 17 to December 6 Instructor: David Skelhon To register 250 746 4955 cwbs@classicboats.org *$100 deposit is required to secure your spot

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The Loom

yarns, wools, needles, books and notions.

250 746 5250

WHIPPLETREE ANTIQUE MALL

The home of fine furnishings

Abby Gabby Gifts & More

Specialising in beautiful woods and Canadian furniture.

Unique Home Decor New and Used Furniture

Rare finds, nostalgia, treasures and more.

ctor pment

250 748 2258

250 597 2220

Located south of Duncan

Dining Room • Bedroom Living Room • Tables Home Accesories Eco friendly Sofas & Chairs 250 737 1773 www.sassywood.ca

Leola’s Studio In The Courtyard

-

arrive ng5PM day

- Classes - Shared Studio - Weaving and spinning - Community Loom - Gift Certificates - Locally made textiles Learn and Experience the joy of textiles.

leolasstudio.blogspot.com

Coast Salish Journey Native Artist Herb Rice Custom Carved Wood

Learn to carve

250 748 1313 www.coastsalishjourney.com

WHIPPLETREE

JUNCTION

4705 Trans Canada Highway

Ready to serve at 6am!

Fresh baked goods and made to order sandwiches to go. Fresh hot coffee and specialty beverages.

The Wickertree

BC’s Largest selection of indoor and outdoor rattan furniture! thewickertree.com

Handwoven blankets, shawls and ponchos, toques, story pillows, and more!

Custom products for the little ones in your lives.

www.omagoshdesigns.com.

Find your bears for Christmas gifts in one of our cupboards: Cute, cuddly, laughing, serious, all shapes and sizes. Watch for Laughing Bear Wear Designer Clothes November 12th!…

The best bear show ever!

Bears in the Cupboard Visiting hours from 10am to 5pm Friday to Sunday & Holiday Mondays

1-4715 Trans Canada Hwy 250.746.1988

duncan@moderncountryinteriors.com www.moderncountryinteriors.com Valley Voice Magazine. For people who love to eat, live, play and shop in the Cowichan Valley.

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November 2011 Vol 3 Issue 36 The monthly guide to living in the beautiful Cowichan Valley.

Published by Cowichan Valley Voice Magazine Sheila & Richard Badman Contact us at: editor@cowichanvalleyvoice.com 250 746 9319 Copy Editor

Maeve Maguire

Advertising Enquiries Please Call Adrienne Richards

250 510 6596 or e-mail adrienne@cowichanvalleyvoice.com *Non Profit Community Ad Rates available please enquire.

COMMUNITY CALENDAR LISTINGS ARE FREE!

Please upload your information through our website or e-mail with subject re: MONTH of EVENT and TITLE of EVENT Please include: Date, Time, Event Title, Place and Cost Be advised that space is limited to up to 2 spots per business and prioritizes by 1st sent, 1st printed.

Next deadline NOV 15th for DECEMBER/ NEW YEAR’s Issue. events@cowichanvalleyvoice.com

Valley Voices

Bill Jones, Brad Boisvert, Bruce Wood, Marisa Goodwin, Alison Burdett, David Coulson, Heather Walker, Victor Vesely, Rick Dennis, Ajay Appelaar, Tracey Paleczka, Susanne Merrett, Paul Fletcher, Longevity John, Jo Ludwig, Debbie Shkuratoff, Joanne Sales, Robin Massey, Rick Juliusson, Amanda Marchand, Sheila Badman, Jude Wong, Gloria Lorenzen, Mary Fox, Maki Ikemura, Sybille Webb, Jean Crowder, Nicolette Genier, Emily Doyle Yamaguchi, Joseph Borkovic, Joan Cobham, Roger Foucher, Sue McKitrick & The Lovely Georgia Nicols

We welcome your story ideas & photo submissions, however Valley Voice magazine reserves the right to 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 authors.

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, Courtenay and Tofino.

Cover Image, Teddy McCrea, Decorative Vessels by Mary Fox www.islandestuary.ca

Over 20,000 readers look forward to reading the Valley Voice each month.

Thinking about advertising?

Please contact the lovely Adrienne Richards for holiday and New Year ad specials.

DECEMBER / NEW YEAR ISSUE Deadline: November 18th

250 510 6596 adrienne@cowichanvalleyvoice.com 4

Pages Table of Contents 4 El Dia de los Muertos 5 Community Events Calendar 6 Pumpkin Lasagne 7 Soapstone Cookware Comes To Cowichan 8 Cowichan Eating with Bill Jones 9 Cowichan Bay Seafood Recipe 10 Local Sausage Makes Its Debut 11 On The Farm: Winter Squash 12 White Cheddar Cornbread -Marisa Goodwin 13 Taste of Tea 15 Chemainus November Events 16 Building Green 17 Talking Arts: Mary Fox Annual Studio Sale 18 Imagine That Artisans Collective 19 Entertaining In Style - The Pottery Store 19 Finding Home in Culture and Community 20 CRAFT by Cowichan Valley Artisans 21 Holiday Gifts Guide For Mindful Living 22 Holiday Food Guide For Mindful Living 24 Healing With Jade 26 Vocal Improvisation as a Joyful Teacher 27 Cowichan Wellness Expo 28 Green Living: Natural Disinfectants 30 Smart Meters are Illegal 30 Cowichan Recyclists 31 Red Willow Womyns Centre 31 Broom Action Plan - At a Glance 32 Helpful Garden 33 Websites, Emails and Verbal Lint 33 What would Miss Polly Do? 34 Dancing For Birth 34 Inspired by Christmas Wonder 35 David Skelhon - Boatbuilding in Cowichan Bay 36 Off The Grid 37 Community Farm Store Pages 38 Municipal Election Candidates Paid Advertisements 40 Crowder’s Corner44 Moonbeams 44 Saving Seeds 44 Georgia Nicols Horoscopes 45 Outnumbered by Sue McKitrick 45 Feature Listings 46-47

Visit us online at www.cowichanvalleyvoice.com

Thank you for supporting our advertisers. They make the Valley Voice possible each month.

Mondays: Parent + Ch 9.30 - 10.30 9 classes 15

El Dia de los Muertos The Day of the Dead Procession

November 2 5:30pm - 7pm Meet at Charles Hoey Park COSTUMES PLEASE! El Dia de los Muertos - The Day of the Dead focuses on gatherings of family and friends to honor and remember those who have passed. It is particularly celebrated in Mexico, where it attains the quality of a National Holiday. The celebration takes place on November 1st and 2nd and traditions connected with the holiday include building private altars honoring the deceased using sugar skulls, marigolds, and the favorite foods and beverages of the departed. Similar celebrations are also seen in Brazil, Spain and in parts of Europe, Asia Mondays: and Africa.

Parent + Child Music From noon to 6:30 pm on 9.30 - 10.30Wednesday, am November 2 you 9 classes 150$ fam-to celebrate El Dia are per invited de los Muertos. To celebrate

and honor our ancestors a community altar will be available to receive small offerings. Recommended offerings are candles and flowers. Typical costumes include painted skeletal faces and traditional old fashion clothes. Participants are encouraged to arrive at 5:30 pm at Charles Hoey Park. The procession will commence at 6:30pm, returning to Charles Hoey Park by 7 pm. This is a public family event. Please bring a lantern for the walk.

Brought to you by El Centro Café and Friends.

Image Leonard Marley Bates

a description from Chef Boisvert on why he paired the dish for each wine. This will be the last wine makers dinner at this location.

Unsworth Vineyards and Amusé Bistro Winemakers Dinner

Image Kurt Knock

November 17 6pm Cocktails 6:30pm Start 3 Courses Amuse Bistro

1753 Shawnigan Mill Bay Rd

250 743-3667 www.amusebistro.com

Set 3 course menu with a wine cocktail to start and canapés at 6pm. The 3 course dinner will commence at 6:30pm. Each course will be paired with a selected Usworth wine. Each course will have a brief education component of how the wine was made as well as

very pleasant stoneware here in the Cowichan Valley.

Hilary brings her pots to markets and shops by bicycle and trailer to avoid using fossil fuels and to keep fit. Her show is a unique opportunity to see all of Hilary’s clay work at once and find that perfect gift that will last and be endlessly useful. For more info go to www trialbyfirepottery.ca or call 746-6893.

Trial By Fire 6th Annual with -Massimo Pintus Solo Pottery Show Werbeck Singing, Uncovering the voice Hilary Hunt November 26 & 27 10am - 5pm Clements Centre 5856 Clements St, Duncan

Trial By Fire Pottery is a tiny, one person studio making

A Song to Sing Mindscape Artist John Hood Opening El Centro November 6

Community Music Programs & Workshops • Sing for Joy Choir •Threshold Singers • Music for Children • Gong Choir Vocal Improvisation Class • Helios Song • Deep Listening Evenings • Parent and Child Music • Intuitive Pedagogy: Movement & Musical Games

Voice Lessons

with Cari Burdett BMUS, MMUS from Royal Academy of Music London, UK Folk, Musical Theatre, Classical, Improvisation

Offering Private and Group Music Classes

Guitar Lessons with Massimo Pintus Folk, Pop, Classical, Jazz, Flamenco, Finger independence

Visit Joythroughmusic.com Call to Register 250 701 0978

Valley Voice Magazine. For people who love to eat, live, play and shop in the Cowichan Valley.

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Community Calendar

NOVEMBER

All Nov 1pm - 3pm

Tzouhalem Spinner and Weavers Guild Annual Sale Opening Show Valley Vines to Wines, Mill Bay Centre

14 10-12:30pm Learn to Make Your Own Lacto Fermented Sauerkraut 250-746-7824 or email holly@naturallynourishing.com.

17 7-9:30pm

2 5:30-7pm

El Dia de los Muertos - The Day of the Dead Meet at Charles Hoey Park and celebrate with El Centro!

14 8pm

Yet: A One Man Show About Woodie Guthrie Duncan Garage Showroom, Duncan $20

2,9,16,23, 30 Adult Hand Drumming with Karin Lewis

8 - 9:30pm

Natasha’s Temple Studio Pre-register: 250 748 6750

17-19

Yellow Point and Cedar Country Christmas Tour www.cyartisans.com

4,18,25 7 -10pm

Night Shade Trio Jazz El Centro 150 Craig Street No Cover

17

Unsworth Vineyards and Amusé Winemakers Dinner 1753 Shawingan Mill Bay Rd Please call 250 743 3667

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17

12-3pm

Cowichan Green Community Mason Bee Workshop 181 Station Street, Duncan 250-748-8506

Spa Day and “Taste of the British Isles” Honeymoon Bay Lodge and Retreat 250 749 4252 $85

5&6 11am - 5pm

Mary Fox Annual Studio Sale 321 - 3rd Avenue, Ladysmith 250 245-3778

19 9am - 4pm

Artisans’ Market/Craft Fair Cowichan Neighbourhood House Association 9796 Willow St. Chemainus

5 6 -9pm

John Hood Mindscape Artist Opening Reception El Centro 150 Craig Street

20 7-8:30pm

Sacred Chant Circle Rivendell Yurt, 250-748-2089 sdbartram@gmail.com

5 1 - 4pm

Sip, Sample and Shop $20 1230 Merridale Road, Cobble Hill 250 743-4293

19 8am8pm

Municipal Election Voting Day Various Locations

5 5-6pm

Family Dance - hula hoops, flags, music...

Art House, Shawnigan Lake Village 250 743 5846

19 10am 3pm

Annual Family Christmas Fair Sunrise Waldorf School 4344 Peters Rd (off Lakeside)

5,12,19,26 5:30pm

Field to Table Dinners 1230 Merridale Road, Cobble Hill

20 10am 1pm

Brunch at Arbutus Ridge Golf Club 3515 Telegraph Road, Cobble Hill 250 743 5100

6 2:30pm

Palm Court Light Orchestra Concert Cowichan Theatre Tickets 250 748 7529 cjob@telus.net

20 8pm

Marianne Girard acoustic / country / folk Duncan Garage Showroom, Duncan $12/$15

6 7:30pm

Wes Borg’s Comedy Night and Auditions $10 or 3 /$25 Crofton Hotel & Pub, 1534 Joan Ave Crofton 250 324 2245

22

Singer-songwriter-guitarist Mark Crissinger Noodles of the World 161 Station Street, Duncan

6 11am - 4pm

Cherry Point Artists Fall Show & Sale Duncan Community Lodge, 2244 Moose Rd, Duncan

Anna Atkinson & Zoe Guigueno House Concert Rosedale Ridge Info at www.puzzleroot.com $10

7,14,21,28 4:45pm Doors

Drop In BINGO Every Monday begins at 6:40pm Chemainus Seniors Centre 9824 Willow St 250 246 2111

22 7pm

Ladysmith Camera Club Mid-Island Photo Expo Ladysmith Waterfront Art Gallery, 610 Oyster Bay Drive

7,14,21,28

Monday Night Football on The Big Screen Crofton Hotel & Pub, 1534 Joan Ave Crofton 250 324 2245

22 7pm

Nomad guitar meanderings with west African rhythms Duncan Garage Showroom, Duncan $18 / $20

8 & 10 6- 7:30pm

Introduction to Seed Saving Practices Call CGC for locations and details 250-748-8506

24 8pm

Reel Alternatives presents Potiche

9 8pm

Wendell Ferguson Guitar at its finest Duncan Garage Showroom, Duncan $20/$25

24 7pm 25 9pm

Blackberry Wood - Gypsy swing indie acoustic Crofton Hotel & Pub, 1534 Joan Ave Crofton 250 324 2245

26 & 27

9:30 – 5:30pm

Cowichan Wellness Expo Oceanfront Suites at Cowichan Bay FREE Admission

26 7:30 - 9:30pm

Drum Circle with Karin Lewis Natasha’s Temple Studio, Duncan 250 748 6750

26

El Centro’s ONE YEAR Anniversary Celebration El Centro 150 Craig Street No Cover

26 10am - 3pm

Chemainus Firehall 16th Annual Craft Fair 9901 Chemainus Rd, Chemainus

26 & 27 10am-5pm

Trial By Fire Annual Solo Pottery Show - Hilary Hunt Clenents Centre, 5856 Clements St, Duncan 250 746-6893

27 8am - 3pm

Grey Cup Event Tournament $130 Tickets Arbutus Ridge Golf Club Cobble Hill 250 743 5000

Ongoing

Cowichan Valley Artisans Year Round Studio Tour Download brochure at www.cowichanvalleyartisans.com

10 5:30-7:30 Immune Systen Health Class with Lorene Benoit Duncan White Spot $15, Call to register 748-6802 pm 10 8pm

Jon and Roy Duncan Garage Showroom, Duncan $20 Advance

11 - runs to Dec 31

Countryside Christmas Opening Night Chemainus Festival Theatre 1 800 565 7738

12 8pm

Doug Cox and Betty Soo Dancing Bean Café, Chemainus 250-246-5050

12 7-9pm

Last Drum Circle with Aboubacar Camara Art House, Shawnigan Lake Village 250 743 5846

12 7pm

Cowichan Folk Guild Coffee House Jim Moffat Duncan United Church 246 Ingram St

13 1-4pm

Lynda Faulks Exhibition Opening Cowichan Bay Wooden Boat Society, Cowichan Bay

Cowichan Theatre, Proceeds to Cowichan Valley Hospice Services

DID YOU KNOW? Sauerkraut is a lacto-fermented food, eaten for millennia by cultures around the world not only for flavour but also for its many health benefits. Fermented foods are beneficial to the digestive system because they increase the healthy flora in the intestinal tract and create the type of environment for them to flourish. Fermentation actually increases nutrient values in the cabbage, especially vitamin C. Learn more at Holly’s Fermentation Workshops (see above Nov 14 & 17)

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uring the Family Christmas Fair at Sunrise Waldorf School the D school is transformed by the spirit of

holiday magic into a place of childhood wonder. Come and spend the day with your family - dip beeswax candles, paint a silk scarf, make a wreath for your door or table; there are seasonal Annual Christmas Fair crafts for all ages. Younger children can visit the Enchanted Forest or Sunrise Waldorf School explore the Cookie Cave, older Saturday November 19th children can try their hand at Soapstone Carving. You can savour a delightful 10am to 3pm Puppet Play, musical performances 4344 Peters Road and delicious foods.

Cowichan Station At the Artisan Marketplace you can do all of your holiday shopping, and find some treasures for yourself! Here you will find the finest handmade wares that the Valley has to offer – natural clothing, gourmet foods, toys and gifts handcrafted with love and care. A simple, beautiful, wholesome day to set the tone for the whole season. All ages welcome, admission to the Fair and Marketplace is free; tickets for the children’s activities and crafts are very reasonably priced. All proceeds support Waldorf Education in the Cowichan Valley. We encourage everyone to bring a dried goods donation that will go to the Cowichan Valley Food Hamper. *Bonus! The Artisan Marketplace is open for a pre-sale to parents who prefer to shop without their children, on Friday November 18th from 5 to 8 pm.

Pumpkin Lasagne Pumpkins are one of my favourite fall treats. They are so versatile...they add wonderful colour and nutrients to so many dishes. This recipe is a wonderful way to use up some of those local pumpkins!

Ingredients

Amount

Roasted Pumpkin Puree Olive Oil Sweet Onions, thinly sliced Garlic Cloves, minced Ricotta Cheese Cream Cheese Salt Cinnamon Cumin Flour Golden Sugar Whipping Cream Warm Milk Lasagne Noodles (uncooked) 9 Wilted Baby Spinach Leaves Shredded Mozzarella

500 ml (2 Cups) 30 ml (2 Tablespoons) 2 large 2 250 ml (1 Cup) 125 g (1/2 block) 10 ml (2 teaspoons) 5 ml (1 teaspoon) 10 ml (2 teaspoons) 60 ml (1/4 Cup) 40 ml (1/3 Cup) 125 ml (1/2 Cup) 500 ml (2 Cups) 500 ml (2 Cups) 500 ml (2 Cups)

Method 1. Roast a small pumpkin in a 400F oven until tender; let cool and scoop out pulp, discarding seeds. (Gardeners will want to save the seeds from the pumpkin prior to baking!)

2. Saute the onions in olive oil over med-low heat for about 4-5 minutes, or until golden brown. Add cumin, garlic and cinnamon to pan and sauté for a couple of minutes. Remove from heat and let cool slightly.

3. Put onion mixture, pumpkin, ricotta, cream cheese, salt, flour, cream cheese, sugar and whipping cream into food processor and blend well. In a large bowl, combine warm milk and pumpkin mixture.

4. Using a 9 X 13 glass pan, ladle 1 ½ to 2 cups of pumpkin mixture into the bottom. Lay down 3 noodles and cover with sauce. Do this two more times. Lay down spinach leaves and cover with one final layer of noodles and sauce, making sure the noodles are covered with sauce. (It looks like a lot of sauce, but the noodles will soak up quite a bit during cooking.)

5. Cover with mozzarella and bake in a preheated 350F oven for 45 to 60 minutes, or until noodles are tender. (You may need to cover the lasagne with aluminum foil for the last 2030 minutes of baking to reduce browning.)

6. Remove from oven and let sit for 15 minutes before cutting and serving. * Recipe courtesy Sunflower Cafe’ and is an excerpt from their upcoming cookbook.Visit the Sunflower Cafe at 2-149 Canada Ave, Duncan Open Monday - Friday 8am - 4pm

Weekly Meditation • Buddha Services • Spiritual Counseling • Nichiren Buddha Society

“ It is in creative loving energy, we find unconditional love far beyond emotional love ” www.VIRetreats.com

Vancouver Island Retreat Garden, Peace Center

Phone 778 422 0155

Valley Voice Magazine. For people who love to eat, live, play and shop in the Cowichan Valley.

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Soapstone Cookware Comes to the Cowichan Valley inhabitants had been using for centuries: carved soapstone cookware made from locallymined soapstone. Village miners’ wives were cooking delicious meals in the dense stone pots that were not only beautiful but durable.

Today, small scale artisans in village workshops in Brazil produce cookware for Rosetta Stone Kitchenware using methods that create no pollution.

Each piece, encircled with a peach-coloured band of copper, is handcrafted from an individual block of sustainably-mined soapstone.

onsistent use over 9000 C years is impressive for a cookware; certainly beats

out the newbies: stainless steel, aluminum and cast iron.

Soapstone cookware, used in 7000 BC by tribes in Mexico and by the Vikings who stewed game and root vegetables in soapstone pots, is still popular in Brazil, Italy, Scandinavia and Eastern Europe. Versatile and unadulterated, soapstone cookware is as practical today

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as it was a few thousand years ago. Fortunately, Rosetta Stone Kitchenware, a Cowichan Valley soapstone cookware company has reached into history’s kitchens and retrieved it for us.

Constanza Gil, owner of Rosetta Stone Kitchenware, was born in Colombia where food, tradition and community life were enjoyed around the kitchen table. A few years ago in Brazil she came upon a traditional cookware

From earth to table, Rosetta Stone Kitchenware can be used for braising, stewing, baking, and roasting, even for pizzas. Reduced cooking time - soapstone retains heat

twice as long as conventional metal cookware - makes it a sustainable way to reduce energy consumption. Alternatively, it can be chilled for sushi, gazpacho, or cold salads.

Many ancient traditions have been lost to new inventions, but thankfully soapstone cookware travelled successfully from the fire pit to the modern stove.

Rosetta Stone Kitchenware is available on the Island at: The Worldly Gourmet, Ladysmith, Ingredients Health Food & Apple Cafe, Victoria (Nov.2011) and The Community Farm Store, Duncan (Nov.2011) Image Left; Mimi’s Garbanzos from The Thousand and One Bean Story cooked in Rosetta Stone Sauce Pan LG- 3Lt. /(3000Ml) Photo Constanza Gil Story submitted by Gloria Lorenzen

Cowichan

EATING

n

I

n

my 11 years in the Cowichan, I’ve observed the ebb and flow of the mushrooms culture in the valley.

The forest of our region are a rich source of good edible mushrooms with many more dangerous, or simply inedible, fungi thrown into the mix. The most abundant edible mushroom is probably the chanterelle. There are several forms of the chanterelle present in the mossy forests floors of our region. Scientists have recently decided that the Pacific Golden Chanterelle (cantharellus formosus) is actually different from the European chanterelle and deserves its own name.

This really illustrates how little we know about the world of mushrooms. Old ideas are being reevaluated as new technology like DNA analysis is brought to bear on things like our local mushroom crop.

In our area, the main edible chanterelles are the yellow variety, mentioned above, and the White Chanterelle – a close cousin with a pale cream appearance and a thicker structure. The white is a great mushroom for chowders and I appreciate it for its mild flavour and abundance.

There are lots of other good edible mushrooms out there: porcini, cauliflower fungus, hedgehogs and oyster to name a few. Only one other mushroom has a significant impact on the valley mushroom scene: the famous pine mushroom. Known as the Matsutaki in Japan, the pine has had a colourful history on the coast in recent years.

Locally, it has nothing to do with pine trees (its favoured habitat in Japan) and likes our mixed forest

of Douglas fir and hemlock.

When it was first discovered here and exported to Japan, the prices climbed to astronomical levels.

Three hundred dollars a pound was not an uncommon price for these morsels. When other sources opened in Korea, Russia, Eastern North America (to name a few), the price dropped, in good production years, to about five dollars a pound. This year has not been a great harvest so far and the commercial wholesale price has risen to around fifty dollars for a pound of primegrade small buttons. As you can imagine there are some motivated local pickers out there.

Why the fuss over a small mushroom? The Japanese put great cultural significance into the pine mushroom. It’s a treasured part of their fall celebrations and beloved for its crisp texture and spicy (cinnamon-like) odor. I enjoy them in chowders, soups, rice dishes, and noodle dishes. It also has a reputation as an aphrodisiac, which, lets face it, doesn’t hurt.

Barley Chowder with Miso and Mushrooms Recipe courtesy Bill Jones, Deerholme Farm Serves 4-6

This chowder is great with any type of mushroom including the humble button mushroom. It is transformed into something wonderful with the addition of local wild mushrooms. The soup freezer well and is a great way to preserve the fall harvest.

Ingredients

Grapeseed oil Carrots, peeled and diced Onion, peeled and diced Celery, trimmed and diced Garlic, chopped Ginger, minced

Potato, peeled and diced Sliced mushrooms (chanterelle, pine, cauliflower, etc) Water or mushroom stock Miso Cooked barley or rice Chopped greens, kale, spinach, asian greens Japanese soy (or light soy) Sesame oil Salt and pepper to taste

Amount 2 Tbsp 2 medium 1 large 1 stock 1 Tbsp 1 Tbsp 1 large 4 cups 8 cups ¼ cup 4 cups 2 cups 2 Tbsp 1 Tbsp

Method

In a stockpot, add the oil and carrots, onion, celery, garlic and ginger.

Saute for 1-2 minutes. Add the mushrooms and sauté for 5 minutes or until they release moisture. Add the water, miso and barley, bring mixture to a boil. Reduce heat and simmer for 10 minutes.

Once the mixture begins to thicken and the potatoes are cooked, add the chopped greens and season with the soy sauce, sesame oil and salt and pepper. Ladle into bowls and serve hot.

We are lucky to be able to enjoy a delicacy that might cost the consumer hundreds of dollars per serving in Tokyo.

Apparently, mushrooms are a world-class treat from our local forests – with the potential for significant economic impact. We have to view the forest as more than lumber farms to make this a reality. Enjoying the fungal bounty here in the Cowichan might be as easy as a trip to the woods — or the local farmers’ market.

Bill Jones is an author, chef and food consultant who can be found at Deerholme.com

Valley Voice Magazine. For people who love to eat, live, play and shop in the Cowichan Valley.

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Cedar Planked Salmon “Gravlax” Style With a Sweet Mustard Sauce Recipe courtesy Bruce Wood of Bruce’s Kitchen, Salt Spring Island Cooking salmon on a cedar plank imbues it with a sweet smokiness that is not overpowering. This recipe combines the traditional technique with a Scandinavian approach to seasoning. It is also excellent eaten cold. When you are buying the cedar for the plank make sure it is untreated. *BBQ Salmon cedar planks available at Cowichan Bay Seafoods.

Ingredients

Amount

Chopped fresh dill 4 Tbsp.

Mustard seeds, cracked 1 Tsp. Black pepper, Coarsely ground ½ Tsp. Brown sugar 1/4 cup Coarse sea salt 2 Tsp. Wild salmon fillets, Boneless 4 x 6 oz.

Lemon, cut in half 1 Brandy or dark rum 2 oz.

Untreated cedar plank 1 ½” thick, 6” wide and one foot long, soaked for one hour in water

Hours Tuesday to Sunday 10 am to 5:30 pm. Closed Mondays.

Method 1. In a bowl mix together the dill, mustard seeds, brown sugar, black pepper and salt.

2. Place the salmon fillets in a non reactive dish and rub with the lemon.

3. Loosely pack the salmon fillets with the dill mixture and drizzle with the brandy or rum. Cover and refrigerate a minimum of one hour or for as long as 48 hours.

4. Pre heat the BBQ to med high. Place the salmon on the presoaked plank and place the plank on the BBQ. Close the lid and cook until the salmon is opaque and flakes easily approximately 12-14 minutes.

For the sauce Mayonnaise 1/2 Cup 5. Remove the salmon from the BBQ and serve hot with the Sour cream 1/2 Cup sweet mustard sauce.

Grainy style mustard 2 Tbsp.

Brown sugar 2 Tbsp.

Sea salt and freshly milled black pepper to taste Cowichan Bay Seafoods In a bowl whisk all ingredients together. Cover and 1751 Cowichan Bay Rd, Cowichan Bay refrigerate until needed.

250-748-0020 E-mail: info@cowichanbayseafood.com

local cider, wine, beer and spirits; sampling sweets and savouries from our bakery and kitchen; shopping for local arts and wares from the Valley.

Sip, Sample & Shop November 5 1 - 4pm Tickets $20

Merridale Ciderworks 1230 Merridale Road 250-743-4293

Tickets on sale now!

Your $20 ticket lets you taste your way around the Brandy House—Sipping on

Proceeds from the event will be donated to a Cowichan United Way charity. This year’s participants include: Averill Creek, Cherry Point Vineyards, Venturi Schulze, Silverside Farm & Winery, Unsworth Vineyards, Little Qualicum Cheese & MooBerry Winery, Craig Street Brew Pub, Enrico Winery.

Make Your Own Lacto-Fermented Sauerkraut Preserve the Fall Harvest - Save Money – Improve Your Digestion November 13th 10am-12:30pm OR November 17th 7pm-9:30pm Call 250-746-7824 or email holly@naturallynourishing.com. $45 includes your own 1-liter jar of sauerkraut, plus tasting and snack.

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Local Sausage Makes Its Debut!

“It’s fresher from here”

Bean Stew with Coq Au Vin Sausage and a Poached Hen’s Egg This not only makes a great breakfast or brunch item it would be good for dinner on a cold winter night.

Recipe courtesy Brad Boisvert, Amuse Bistro

Ingredients

Kidney Beans Lima Beans Dutch Brown Beans White Beans Olive Oil

Onion 1/4 inch dice Cloves Garlic Minced Tomato Paste Red Wine Vegetable Stock Heirloom Tomatoes Celery diced Carrots Diced Turnip Diced Fennel Bulb Diced Parsley, sage ,oregano chopped Coq Au Vin Sausage Poached Eggs

Amount

1/2 Cup 1/2 cup 1/2 Cup 1/2 Cup 3 tablespoons 1/2 ea 3 ea 1 tablespoon 60 ML 6 cups 2 ea 4 stalks 3 ea 2 ea 1 ea 5 tablespoons 4 4 eggs

Method

1. Soak all bean varieties overnight.

2. Using a big pot, saute garlic and onions in oil, add tomato paste and cook until tomato paste is a dark red colour.

Deglaze with red wine and add vegetables, herbs and stock.

3. Drain beans and add to pot. Bring to a boil and turn down to a simmer until beans are tender. Season with salt and pepper.

4. In a separate pan cook sausages until golden brown and are cooked all the way through, approximately 8-10 minutes.

For Plating

1. Spoon some of bean mixture into bowl, top with one sausage and one poached egg. Garnish with a few pieces of arugula. Enjoy!

1615 Koksilah Road Cowichan Bay BC 250-746-6163 • www.farmhousepoultry.ca Sausage available from Cobble Hill Country Grocer, Amuse Bakery and Island Farmhouse Poultry.

Farmer Pat Hill in his organic garlic fields.

L

ooking at the best of what local farms have to offer, Island Farmhouse Poultry have begun to produce a delicious selection of low fat chicken alternatives for sausage lovers.

“We make all the sausage in house and buy as many local ingredients as possible, no added fillers or preservatives - made by hand the old fashioned way.” explains Marlene McLean. One of the growers they purchase from is family run Hills Farm, located just off of Shawnigan Mill Bay Road. Pat and Yasmeen Hill’s relationship with Island Farmhouse goes back to when in house sausage maker Larry Mauthe used to have a stall at the market, (Growin’ Up Country) selling local organic produce about 5 years ago. The farm is only 2 1/2 acres big but the Hill’s are able to produce 8000 - 10,000 bulbs of garlic a year. “It’s a labour of love”, farmer Pat tells us. You can do alot with a little if you know what you are doing.” Pat grows Red Russian Garlic, a strain that over many years of farming he has discovered is “ the best, biggest and most flavourful garlic of all ” It also allows them to grow other things on the farm for their family.

“Planting garlic is artful, it needs to be mulched heavily with alfalfa

and leaves because it has a long weed season. You plant in the fall and you harvest in late July depending on what kind of weather you had in the spring. That is a long time for the weeds to grow.

Everything is grown naturally and organically.” Other ingredients they supply for the sausages are sweet, large leaf basil. They are also open for seasonal farm gate sales at 1141 Briarwood Drive, (off of Shawnigan Mill Bay Rd).

Fresh, local farm ingredients is just the beginning. The next secret weapon is the recipes. Brad Boisvert of Amusé Bistro, the company’s collaborative chef developed a very special recipe for a Coq Au Vin sausage combining BC crimini mushrooms, Vancouver Island Salt and a secret blend of Cowichan Valley red wine. The result is truly a sausage with terroir. The Coq Au Vin sausage was launched at Amusé Bistro’s new home Unsworth Vineyards during the Wine Festival and sampled by foodies at the Feast of Fields event in Victoria. “As many of you know Lyle started out as a local farmer himself so he really supports the local food movement” says Brad “We share a dedication to local food. After working together on a holiday chicken pate, which Farmhouse Poultry gave out as gifts, the recipe creations then rolled into creating more delicious value added products using their chicken.”

Watch for more delicious collaborations between Amusé Bistro, more local food growers and Island Farmhouse Poultry.

Written by Sheila Badman

The Duncan Butcher Shop!

430 Trans-Canada Hwy

250 748-6377

Organic meats, specialty cuts, spices and rubs.

Valley Voice Magazine. For people who love to eat, live, play and shop in the Cowichan Valley.

11

Cold Wine & Beer & Liquor Store

On The Farm

Cold Wine & Beer & Liquor Store Check our website for Entertainment Schedule

Wednesday Nov 2 • 8pm/$15 Monkey Junk / Ross Neilsen and The Sufferin’Bastards Electric blues at its finest

NDAY

Friday Nov 4 • 9pm

0 • 4 - 8pm Jam , fiddle, flute... no cover

The Sutcliffes

O

ne secret weapon for seasonal eaters like us is winter squash. Harvested in the fall, winter squash will keep for months if stored properly. Squash provides hibernating foodies with creamy soups, easy side dishes, rich pies and other treats through the winter and into the spring.

WithRecepion, hundreds of Artist June squash varieties available from you 4th-Cowichan 6:00 pm farms, start, show can enjoy a diversity of flavours runs and the textures, month offrom june spaghetti squash to creamy kabochas.

a west coast homage to the Beatles…

Saturdays in November After Game Party- Live rare concert footage on the big screen! NO COVER

The Crofton!

Sunday Nov 6 • 7:30pm / $15

Wes Borg’s Comedy Night & Auditions A mainstay on the Victoria comedy scene invites you to the stage.

MONDAY NIGHT

FOOTBALL Watch it on the BIG SCREEN Pitchers on $PECIAL

Friday Nov 11 • 9pm

Almost Johnny Cash’s Big River Adv $15 Ten Old Books / $18 Door

Friday Nov 18 • 9pm/$15 The Mahones

Raise your pints to Celtic Punk!

Friday Nov 25 •9pm/$15 Blackberry Wood

Alt-Country Gypsy Circus band!

Sunday November 27

ON THE BIG SCREEN 3:30pm Start

Winter Squash Storage Tips Saturday November 19 Squash can beAfter stored in thePartyhouseLive (andrare are beautiful as Game concertor footage on the big such as your seasonal decoration!) in a cooler place, screen! NO COVER garage or basement. Do not let squash freeze, and try not to break off the stem or cut or bruise the squash: damaged squash will not store as well. Store squash in a single layer, not touching one another, and not with apples. Some winter squash varieties keep longer than others, but most will remain tasty and firm until the spring or beyond.

For example: acorn squash types can keep for 5-8 weeks, June 20and -24buttercup/kabocha •Summer menu launch while butternut types can be stored for

Celebrate Summer Solstice!

2-3 months, and Hubbard varieties store for 5-6 months. menu

Heather Walker and Brock McLeod own and operate Makaria Farm Heather is a writer, editor and passionate seed starter. www.makariafarm.com

Basic Winter Squash Recipe 1. Rinse the squash to remove any mud.

2. Cut the squash into halves or quarters.

3. Scoop out the seeds (seeds can be roasted, seasoned and eaten; squash are notorious Self Guided Tours Anytime! cross-pollinators so don’t bother saving the seeds unless you’re feeling experimental).

Guided Tours at 11am, 11:30am and 4pm and 4:30pm 4. Place squash cut-side-down in a pan.

(Optional: add 1” water and cover.)

5. Bake at 350-degrees for an hour or until squash is soft.

6. Season with butter/maple syrup/seasonings, and serve. Or use cooked squash in soup, pie, curry, etc. If you have too much cooked squash to eat, put the leftovers into a freezer-safe container and freeze it for future meals.

Book Your Christmas Party Here!

All shows $10 (or 3 for $25 ) unless otherwise stated Pub/Cafe Open 7 Days a week from 11am

Beer on Tap • Daily Menu Specials

1534 Joan Avenue Crofton

www.croftonhotel.ca

Photo taken by Paul Fletcher www.fletcherfoto.com

250-324-2245

Cranberry Sauce 4 Cups fresh YPC cranberries 2 Cups sugar 1/2 Cup water

Combine all ingredients and bring to boil. Turn down to a slow Cook until Callsimmer. or email to register: 737-1331 or Serve info@bopoma. berries pop. hot or cold.

Open 11am - 5pm Daily

yellowpointcranberries.com

Fresh cranberries available from the farm NOW! Yellow Point and Cedar Country Christmas self-guided tour November 17 - 20th

org

Listen Globally, Play Locally.

African-rooted community music... for everyone!

250-737-1331 www.bopoma.org 12

Cranberries • Tours • Homemade Preserves • Gift Shop

Chemainus Seniors

White Cheddar Cornbread

Drop In Centre

BINGO

The perfect sweet and savoury quick-bread that is delicious with winter greens and stews. Serves 6 Prep time 15 minutes Bake time 30 mins Bake at 400F on middle rack Ingredients

Unsalted Butter(room temperature) Raw cane sugar Local Eggs(room temperature) Sea Salt All Purpose flour Cornmeal Baking powder Whole Milk Frozen organic corn Grated White Cheddar

EVERY MONDAY!

4:45pm Doors / 6:40pm

Loonie Pot, G-Ball, Bonanza & 50/50 Draw

Amount 1/2 cup 2/3 cup 2 large 1 tsp 1 1/2 cup 3/4 cup 1 tsp 3/4 cup 3/4 cup 1 cup

Saturday Nov 12 •Doors 7pm

Dance with The Esquires

Everyone Welcome! Includes Lunch! $7

Nov 16 •9:30am – 11:30am

Blood Pressure Clinic FREE

November 16 •11:30-12:45pm

Soup & Sandwich Day Entertainment too! $5

Method

1. Cream together butter and sugar 2. Add in eggs and salt 3. In a separate bowl blend together the dry ingredients 4. Combine the dry ingredients with the wet and then add the milk till smooth 5. Fold in the corn and cheese 6. Bake in either a greased bread tin or 12 cup muffin tin till tops are lightly browned and a test stick comes clean.

7. Let cool briefly before serving and tightly wrap for storage.

Saturday November 19•5 pm

Marisa co-owns Organic Fair and is immersed in food, farm and family. www.organicfair.com

Pot Luck Birthday Parties

Everyone welcome! Entertainment Saturday Nov 26 •Doors 7pm

Dance with Happy Hans

Everyone Welcome! Includes Lunch! $7

9824 Willow Street, Chemainus 250 - 246 - 2111

DuNcAN fARMER’S MARkET 10AM - 2pM Free city parking in all parking lots.

EVERy

SATuRDAy!

Rain or shine!

Visit the market this Fall to buy local handcrafted gifts.

There’s seasonal produce, homemade baking, jams, jellies, honey, soaps, spices, teas, clothing, pet wares, wooden toys, handmade crafts, art, jewelry, pottery, furniture, plants and SO much more!

Located in the Market Square in Downtown Duncan

The all year market on the island.

Valley Voice Magazine. For people who love to eat, live, play and shop in the Cowichan Valley.

13

14

Artist Rece 4th- 6:00 pm runs the mo

Nov 2 • 5:30-7pm

El Dia del los Muertos Procession- Family Event Meet at Charles Hoey Park Costumes Please!

Nov 4,18,25 • 7-10pm

Night Shade Trio Jazz Live Jazz. No Cover

Nov 5,12,19,26 • 11am- 2pm

Market Brunch with Live Jazz

Weekend features and brunch specials.

June 20

Celebra

Nov 5 • 6:30pm start

Mindscape Artist John Hood Artist Reception August 20 • Nov 26 • 8pm

Photo Victor Vesely

Happy Birthday El Centro!

Taste of Tea

W

hen the Globe and Mail recently published an article about pairing tea and cheese it certainly caught my attention. And probably the attention of a few other people too! Rethinking tea has always been of interest to us and we are seeing that some of Cowichan’s finest chefs and culinary enthusiasts are getting excited about tea as well.

A rather interesting surprise was tasting sesame chicken in Monkey tea broth prepared

by Steve Elskens of Farm’s

Open Mic Spo

Gate Foods & Catering at the Duncan Chamber of Commerce Gourmet Gala this year. It was marvelous.

Brad Boisvert of Amusé Bistro has been innovating with tea on his menu for a while now. He often uses herbal teas with seafood and has been glazing his carrot zucchini torte with Sweet Morocco. Zach Zoriski at Noodles of the World is getting funky with smoky Cowichan Caravan in soups and creating tantalizing desert delights with Africa.

When you go to el Centro Café try Patty Doyle’s Pearl

El Centro’s One Year Celebration

Food, music and dancing party!

Chocolate truffles that she infuses 150 Craig St Duncan 250. 597. 0150 with Persia and www.elcentrocafe.com Mysteaque tea.

At the farm we serve a variety of sweet new ways of thinking about treats infused with our teas tea as well. You can contact including shortbread from us through our website or Island Highlander Company. visit us at the farm. Bon

If you would like to explore these recipes and tea ingredients you are welcome to check out more detailed postings on our blog… www. teafarm.ca/blog. The tea and cheese pairing article will be posted too. We invite you to share your ideas and

appetea!

Valley Voice Magazine. For people who love to eat, live, play and shop in the Cowichan Valley.

Victor Vesely is a tea farmer and purveyor of fine and fun organic teas. www.teafarm.ca

15

CHEMAINUS Holiday shopping Willow Street Merchants

s Ice

eet

o

*

eet

er 31st

Antiques & Collectibles 9756 A Willow Street 250 246-4333 English & European Antiques

* Gallery 786 Inc 9756D Willow Street 250 246-1314 Ladies Fashion Accessories

* British Allsorts 9776 Willow Street 250 246-9737 Sweets, Treats and Teas

* The Pottery Store 9745 Willow Street 250 246-2594 Clay Tableware, Vases and Home Decor * Toad Hall Emporium 9738 A Willow Street 250 246-4400 THE fun place to shop for all ages

Chemainus Health Food 9738 Willow Street 250 246-9838 Natural Grocery, Vitamins, Hemp Fashions * Chemainus Foods 9790 Willow Street 250 246-9412 Meat, Produce, Grocery The Crafty Cuppa 9747 Willow Street 250 324-3338 Drop In Ceramics Studio Dancing Bean Cafe 9752 Willow Street 250 246 5050 Live Music, Licensed Cafe Degage Fashions 9774B Willow Street 250 246 5050 Locally designed ladies fashion & accessories.

Willow Street Café 9749 Willow Street 250 246-2434 Homemade Lunch, Snacks, Pizza, Dessert * The Wine Den 9779 Willow Street 250 324-2215 Wine Kits, Equipment and Supplies * Utopia Bakery A-9780 Willow Street 250 246-9992 Fresh Bread and European Pastries

See you soon!

Doc The Barber Willow Street 250 324-0362 Mens Haircuts & Straight Shaves Etc. 9747 Willow Street 250 324-2227 Gifts for all ages

*

We Accept Chemainus Dollars

Come to Chemainus; where the people are friendly and the parking is free! Enjoy holiday shopping, excellent eateries, live music, professional theatre and special events.

Come for a day or make it a getaway.

www.visitchemainus.com 16

* Karens Uptown Bistro 9779 Willow Street 250 246-1059 Local and Seasonal * Hansel & Gretel’s

Candy Company Countryside 9748 Willow Street Christmas 250 246-1059

Assorted specialty Chemainus Theatre Festival Sweets Opens November 11 Runs till December 31 1-800-565-7738

The Art of Dimples Ramona Gregory

The Pottery Store 9745 Willow St, Chemainus November 10 - Opening show runs to December 31

Countryside Christmas is a Ms. Gregory’s irresistibly warm, laughter filled holiday impish pottery features altered comedy. Meet everyone’s wheel thrown forms that are favourite family, “The dimpled with pockets of melted Cornwalls” in their country glass and embellished with cottage on Christmas Eve as Food whimsically scrolled handles they share their family, holiday and hooks that create highly cheer and songs with you collectible yet eminently including classic Christmas functional works of art. songs, as well as songs from Meet the artist at the opening James Taylor, John Denver, and enter a draw for one of Karen Carpenter and many, Ramona’s pieces.

Willow Street Soaps many more.

9748 Willow Street 250 246-4230 Fine Imported Soaps and Luxury Bath Items

Images; Left Chalice, Right Mary sculpting in her Ladysmith studio.

Images Teddy McCrea www.islandestuary.ca

Mary Fox Annual Studio Sale

321 Third Avenue, Ladysmith November 5 & 6 11 am – 5 pm www.maryfoxpottery.ca “Creating beautiful vessels for people to use or contemplate is a thoroughly enjoyable way to spend one’s life.”

Artist Mary Fox ary Fox has been potting since she was just 13.

M Born in Fredericton, New Brunswick, the artist moved with her family to British Columbia in 1966. She is selftaught and has worked solely as a potter since 1979. “My focus is on expressing the beauty and strength of pure form. I delight in the challenge of creating contemporary vessels based on

Talking Arts • Mary Fox Annual Studio Sale classic lines and have a keen interest in developing original glaze effects for my works.” says Mary. Her annual studio sale has been taking place since 1994 with collectors and locals coming from all over BC to line up for entry on the first day.

“What is it about this sale that makes people line up?” asks Valley Voice Magazine. “The people that are here when the sale opens are looking for the greatly reduced seconds and clearance stuff or first pick from Mary’s latest collection of work. I have a limited amount of high end pieces that haven’t worked out perfectly but are still nice, these can be $1000 pieces that are offered for a fraction.” Collectors have walked out of Mary’s studio

with these highly sought after seconds paying just $100$150, priced depending on the reasons for their relegation to the “seconds” shelf. There are also functional seconds (mugs, bowls and plates) for sale discounted by 50 to 60%. During the studio sale, Mary Fox originals are priced between $16 and $3500,

If you miss the clearance pieces, don’t fret as all the firsts are 25% off for the weekend of the sale as well. Something for everyone!

She is quite prolific so don’t worry if you are unable to visit until Sunday, as there is always a great variety of beautiful pieces to choose from.

For full design/build service, give us a call

 250.746.5372 • coulsondesign@shaw.ca • www.davidcoulsondesign.com  Valley Voice Magazine. For people who love to eat, live, play and shop in the Cowichan Valley.





17

To build or not to build green, is that the question?

F

or the best part of 30 years I have strived to “build honest” and that has often meant ‘green’ by today’s definition. Recycle as much as possible, use or resurrect or save as much of the built and natural environment as possible.

And shop and support your neighbours and environs.

Architecturally, they say build in the vernacular. Here on the island that translates into wood frame, timber

frame, elements of stone quarried on site or nearby and give it a good hat and warm dry feet.

Research any home designed

by Samuel Maclure (once a Duncan telegrapher) in Victoria from 1900 onwards and you will find homes and commercial buildings that followed this mantra and surprise, all are standing, short of any that may have intruded on development in the 60’s and 70’s.

Saturday Nov 5 • 5:00 - 6:30pm

Family Dance

By donation hula hoops, flags, music...move in community

Saturday Nov 12 • 7- 9pm

Drum Circle with Aboubacar Camara

By donation instruments provided

*Last one until March as Abou will be “backhome” in Guinea.

New Session begins Monday Nov 14

West African Dance, West African Drumming, Modern Dance, Latin Dance, Hip Hop, Yin Stretch, Creative Dance for kids, and more!

Thursday Nov 24 • 7:30-8:30pm

Chant Circle By donation

Sat Nov 26• 12:30 -1:45pm

Hula Hoop Dance Workshop

Liz Fraser of Parlay Hoops $15 The ART HOUSE • 1756 Wilmot Avenue

Shawnigan Lake Village 250 743 5846 www.MoonDanceArts.ca

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BU ILD I NG green

Honest may also include a modest footprint. Here we strive to create in as little space as possible but packed with ergonomic features like open floor plans that minimize wasted hallways, allow for natural day lighting and are energy efficient by shear size.

My personal focus is creating as functional a kitchen/gathering space as possible.

Back to green, build with long lasting materials such as slate, stone, metal, clay tiles, brick, wood shingle,

Image David Coulson; The Phillips Wolley House, Duncan. One of Samuel

Maclure’s finest homes

wood siding or even a green roof. Wood windows and doors have a lasting appearance.

Use Canadian made prefinished birch plywood for cabinets, walls, even ceilings and how about locally quarried marble for floors, counters and bath.

Almost all of the above have been used for centuries, last for centuries and all are pleasing to the eye.

David Coulson is a local certified Built Green design builder. He has a staff of 25 that have built throughout the island for over 20 years.

OFF THE GRID New neighbours in

Finding Home in Culture and Community

the narrows Sue Coleman

e have new neighbours in Sansum Narrows and W we are delighted to have them!

However these are not the kind of neighbours you go to greet with a big welcoming smile and a dozen home made muffins. Oh no, these neighbours are special as only the trees, birds, deer and sea lions will be on hand to say hello.

The Cowichan Land Trust and The Land Conservancy in partnership with the Cowichan Valley Regional District have acquired 128 acres of land in the narrows, locally known as Sansum Point. This area is water accessible only and a boon for small boats, canoes and kayaks.

It has a small perfect landing beach and rough walking trails.

The view from the property is beautiful and of course, best of all, this property will never be developed; a wilderness treasure for future generations.

As property owners in Sansum Narrows, we are delighted. We fear “developers” - Arbutus Point near Cowichan Bay and Port Royal at the head of the Saanich Inlet being cases in point.

However, with increased visitor numbers come some concerns.

Fire is a constant threat and with “absentee landlords” there is some cause for worry. We implore everyone to respect fire bans and be very careful – as indeed with all wilderness areas. Also we hope people will pack out their garbage. It is a beautiful place for a stop over and a picnic but please leave nothing but footprints behind.

Other Cowichan Land Trust projects this year have included the Quamichan Watershed Project, The Friends of Cowichan Creeks, The Cowichan Estuary Nature Centre and Western Toad Migration Project. They are always looking for members and volunteers and fundraising -especially for the Sansum Point acquisition - is ongoing.

Check them out at www. cowichanlandtrust.ca and 250 746-0227. They have an office at #6 – 55 Station Street in Duncan and will always be happy to write you a tax receipt for your donation.

It’s amazing how much is being accomplished by a few dedicated individuals, so visit their website for more information about all current projects, come join the group and enjoy their great fundraisers. Yes indeed!

Welcome neighbour.

Joan and Aubrey Cobham are the parents of 7 and grandparents of 4.

They live in their “off the grid” cabin in the Sansum Narrows

Lynn Weaver and Aboubacar Camara Photo Byron Weaver;

I

n coming home to the Island after several years in the Yukon, I have been moved by the incredible growth of the Island into such a holistic, vibrant and multicultural community.

It was fitting then for me to walk into the new studio space of MoonDance Dynamic Arts School (MoonDance) and see a community art collage on the wall, with the question “What is home?” in large letters across the top of the canvas.

Although my own ethnic origins lie far from Africa, I have always found a sense of home in its music and dancing. For me, these ancient practices reflect a universal past time of ceremony, celebration and wordless connection. It is grounding and comforting to participate in something so timeless that transcends so many boundaries.

With an extensive background of dance training, MoonDance owner Lynn Weaver’s passion is travel, which facilitates her devoted exploration of Cultural Dance. Weaver moved to the Island in 1999, returning to Canada after a long stint in Australia, and has been creating, performing and coordinating classes here ever since.

In 2002, she began working with internationally renowned musician and choreographer Aboubacar Camara, a native of Guinea in West Africa. After touring his work in Africa, Europe

and across Canada, Camara has now also returned to the Valley to continue his art form and invest in his new sense of home here.

When I asked Camara about his art form, he said, “Making music and dancing brings everyone back to connecting with each other and remembering the things that are truly important.

You can’t just work; you have to enjoy yourself!” From Weaver, “Every instance of learning dance from other cultures involves an inherent respect for the people of that culture. Each person who participates in such dances contributes to the preservation of multicultural life on this planet.”

Last winter MoonDance opened their new studio space, the Art House, in the heart of the Shawnigan Lake Village. In its 11 years of operation, MoonDance has also grown to include an impressive roster of accomplished instructors from Guinea, Vancouver and Vancouver Island.

MoonDance, like the Island, has become an international home for cultural expression, connection and dialogue. One way or another, we have all found home here.

The next session of classes begins November 14th www.

MoonDancearts.ca.

Jude Wong has many dancing pastimes here on the Island, in Vancouver and the Yukon. Visit her blog at www.gapping.wordpress.com or email her at jude_wong@ymail.com.

Valley Voice Magazine. For people who love to eat, live, play and shop in the Cowichan Valley.

19

All About Imagine That Artisans

18

Years ago, in July 1994 an enterprising group of 6 artists began Imagine That Artisan Co operative. (Lorraine Taylor, Jan Kure Kennedy, Joanne Edwards, Elaine Kerr, Lois Joyce, and Patricia Smy) they began in what is currently Studio One, then moved to Matisse’s location and have been at 251 Craig St. since 1999.

Today, 5 members operate ‘day to day’ duties and more impressively 90 consigning artists are represented in the gallery.

A myriad of mediums can be found there; enameling on steel, woodwork, textiles, glass art, stone sculpture, papier mache, hand-dipped candles, handmade soaps, jewellery, ceramics, oil, acrylic and watercolour paintings, art cards, photography and more!

Visitors to Imagine That! can find gift art that ranges from $2.50 to sculpture and paintings priced at over $1500. Currently on show are large stone sculptures by Gus and Sonia Galbraith. Artwork found here is not just limited to

20

décor. An array of puppets, felted dolls, nightlights and blankets are available too making great gifts for children.

This artisan collective are always open to taking new members.

Newcomers works are first presented in the shop to evaluate its saleability. “Creativity and quality of workmanship is what we look for in the works of all new applicants” said artist Margot Page, “interested artists should come to Craig St. for a visit and introduce themselves to one of us at the gallery.” Application forms are also available online at imaginethatartisans.com.

Prospective members should have a good look at price points and assess how their work might fit in. The collective’s newest consignment artist is Keiko Bottomley who makes and designs origami cards.Come in and view her work and all the other talented artists represented by this creative collaborative community.

See you soon!

t

Valleyview

Vocal Improvisation as A Joyful Teacher of Life

Centre

T

rue acceptance is to be completely open and accepting of our own ideas while at the same time welcoming of someone else’s. Allow your tune to remain strong while finding a way to hear the other’s song.

What is the song that is living inside me at this very moment?

What is the rhythm that is accompanying me right now?

Can I unveil my truth in this moment, while finding a way to also respect the expression of what is living around me?

Am I in nature, in the shower, with a group of other singers or with my family?

Once you discover that it is possible to sing your own song regardless of where you are, you have the potential to meet others in harmony.

This is what vocal improvisation inspires and creates. It allows us to share what is within you at the moment with humour, joy and ease. Reach the core of the self and learn to express that in sound. Laugh and make sounds you didn’t even know you could

So much to offer!

1400 Cowichan Bay Rd Books make. Expressing where we are and who we are, allows for growth and development and reflecting this with sound and music will help you consciously develop as a musician, singer and human on a developmental path.

If you are interested in exploring Vocal Improvisation in a group setting, Lila Music Centre offers ongoing classes on Tuesday Evenings from 7- 8.30 pm. Here you can explore vocal improvisation skills with harmonies and orchestral counterparts with others looking for more joy in life through music exploration.

Cari Burdett teaches voice and Massimo Pintus teaches guitar and holds private music sound journeys at Lila Music Centre www.joythroughmusic.com

T

he November feature performer is the wonderful Jim Moffat. Jim been playing folk festivals for years from one end of the country to the other, opening for Utah Phillips, Rosalie Sorrels, Connie Calder, Michael Lewis and Scott Parsons, to name a few.

His style and musical influences include all-time-greats such as Stan Rogers, Harry Chapin, Chris De Berg and James Taylor. A member of the Canadian Song Writer’s Association (SAC), SOCAN, BCCMA, and VFMA he has been instrumental in creating and hosting the “Art of the Song” songwriters group Spirits, Beer & Wine Cowichan Folk Guild in Victoria. Jim is now playing Coffee House Liquor Plus both solo and as a duo with Mike November 12 Sampson. Join us for a wonderful 250-929-1999 Doors 7pm Show 7:30pm evening of music. Tickets at the Wine, beer and spirits Duncan United Church door. CFG Members by donation.

Non members $7. No charge for 246 Ingram Street open stage performers. For more Duncan information visit our website at 250.746.1004 x 250 www.folkfest.bc.ca

Bucknuck Books 250-929-2665 Used books and Local authors Fitness

Food Cobblecinos 250 743 8158 Breakfast, Lunch, Brunch Country Grocer 250 743-5639 Bakery, Meat and Produce

Valley Health and Fitness Dragon Yuan 250-743-0511 250 733-2335 Full service gym/classes Chinese Eat In/ Take Out Valley View Martial Arts 250 929-2211 Instruction for all ages Spa and Wellness

Healthcare Valleyview Medical 250 743-9395 Walk In Clinic

Reiki Wellness 250 743-8122 Relax, Rejuvenate, Detox, Nutrition, Ionized Water

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

Home

South Cowichan Physiotherapy & Sports Rehabilitation 250-743-3833 Physiotherapy, Acupuncture, Orthotics

Prolink Mortgage (BC) Inc Marla Daniels 250-733-2201 Best rates, Friendly Free Service Pets Dunkin Dogs 250 743-3935 Grooming, daycare, food/ raw and more Computers Teky.ca 1-888-843-8359 Computer service & sales Websites & print design

We Welcome New Patients!

South Cowichan Eyecare 250-743-8899 Optometrists Island Pharmacy 250-743-1448 Cosmetics, Medication Delivery Resonance Hearing Clinic 250-743-3337 Hearing Services

Valley Voice Magazine. For people who love to eat, live, play and shop in the Cowichan Valley.

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Holiday

Guide for

BUYERS

MINDFUL LIVING An easy guide to help you decide where to go for mindful gifts, food and services this holiday season.

Clothing and Accessories Prudence Organic

#7 - 225 Canada Avenue, Downtown Duncan 250 597-1188 prudenceorganics.vpweb.ca

Organic - Local - Fair Trade - Recycled and Upcycled Goods.Wonderful Gifts Bellow $25. Kogi Natural Gift Sets, Cosmetics, Organic Bags and Recycled Pencils too Feather and Jade Earrings. Organic Woman, Men, Infant clothing. SHOP ON-LINE

Wear In The World

155 Craig Street, Downtown Duncan 250 748-1040 www.wearintheworld.ca We bring the world to your door with colorful, fair trade, unique fashions, jewelry, World Music CD’s and much more!

Giggle Gear Clothing Co.

63 Station Street, Downtown Duncan 250 748-4445 www.gigglegearclothing.com

Boys and Girls Custom, Handmade, Ballet, Formal and Lounge Wear. Little Star Slings and Organic Teethers. Little Squeakers Non-Toxic, Recycled Leather Shoes. Bummies Cloth Diapers. Organic sleepers, Hand Foot Impression kits. Open Sundays.

Spinning Ninny Boutique

1725 Cowichan Bay Road, Cowichan Bay www.spinningninny.ca 250 597-1444

One of a kind gifts handmade by local artisans and desingers: Shop for unique hand crafted Jewelry, Hand Felted Art, Mosaics, Pottery and Teas.

Unique shopping experience for gifts or yourself!

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Radway Eco Boutique

#2 -1759 Cowichan Bay Road, Cowichan Bay 250 746-8444 www.radway.ca

UPCYCLED • HANDMADE • ORGANIC • FAIR TRADE Cute little boutique located in the seaside village of Cowichan Bay offering hemp & bamboo clothing, woven baskets, baby gifts, padraig slippers, candles and locally made jewelry. Check out our online product guide!

Pregnancy, Birth & Babies Matraea Mercantile

170 Craig Street, Downtown Duncan 250 597-0085 www.matmercantile.ca

Duncan’s newest mama and baby eco-boutique.

The place to shop for specialty gift items related to family wellness, pregnancy, birth and babies.

Organic, sustainable, natural and locally made.

Spa Soul Escape Esthetics

4 -5777 Trans Canada Hwy Duncan 250 748 2056 www.soulescape.ca

The first green spa to open in the Cowichan Valley.

Offering Certified organic skincare Eminence form Hungary, and a full range of spa treatments including Facials, Massage, Pedicures, manicures, services for Young Ladies (age 4-12) and Diabetic footcare.

Holiday Gift Certificates available.

G

Toys & Games

Local Artisans Cowichan Valley Artisans

Throughout the Cowichan Valley www.cowichanvalleyartisans.com Local artists offering Kiln-formed glass, Kiln worked glass jewelery, Local Seasonal Cuisine, Studio furniture, Woodturning, Saltfired ceramics, Fine Woodwork and Furniture, Watercolour, Clay/Mixed Media, Functional and decorative Ceramics, Traditional Barber Tonsorial Services, Wines and Artisanal Balsamic Vinegars.

Imagine That Artisans!

251 Craig Street, Downtown Duncan, 250-748-6776 www.imaginethatartisans.com Beautifully stocked with locally made original art cards, ceramics, enamels, art glass, pillows, handbags, scarves, hand-painted furniture, glass, jewellery, paintings, papier mache, photography, sculpture, woodwork, handmade soaps & creams. Everything purchased here supports a local artisan and this wonderful artists collective.

Cowichan Green Community

181 Station Street, Downtown Duncan 250 748-8506 www.cowichangreencommunity.org Locally made products geared towards helping people reduce their ecological footprint.

We offer electric bikes and scooters, local woodwork, art, soaps and a variety of eco gifts. Most of our products are consignment items that help support local community and economy.

KilnArt Glass Studio

The Red Balloon Toy Shop 85 Station Street, Duncan 250 748-5545

High quality carefully chosen toys encouraging creative thinking. With an emphasis on non violent play, our customers tend to avoid battery operated product in favour of imagination driven activities.

Great selection of European, wooden, and eco friendly play. Ravensburger Puzzles and Creativity for Kids.

Sunrise Waldorf School Store

4344 Peters Road, Cowichan Station 250 743-7253 (please call for store hours) www.sunrisewaldorfschool.org

Please Join us for our annual Christmas Fair November 19th 10-3 * School store open to the public thurs. mornings on school grounds Waldorf inspired toys, art supplies, parenting CDs, children’s books, gift cards, and dolls.

Lavender Nursery Cowichan Valley Lavender Farm & Labyrinth

Farm entrance opposite 6357 Wicks Road North Cowichan *Unique Christmas Gift Sets for Dad, Mum, Kids, Grandma & Pa. *Create your own gifts. *10% off on three items or more. *Learn to make lavender potpourri–Sachets etc. *Sample, while “crafting”, lavender tasty bites! For more details visit our website www.cowichanvalleylavender.com or call 250-701-2885

Home Décor Small World Imports Sue Darlington

1588 Adelaide Street in Crofton 250 246-3991 At KilnArt Glass Studio, a Cowichan Valley Artisans studio tour venue, Peggy Brackett carefully hand crafts exquisite dichroic glass jewelry. Her partner Jo Ludwig makes those dazzling vessels. KilnArt isopen by chance or appointment.

250 748 6570 www.smallworldimports.ca

Direct Equitable Trade, hand-knotted, 100% Tibetan wool rugs. Made in Nepal by Tibetan Refugees.

Beautiful and durable Tibetan carpets made in a family run venture that houses its workers and educates their children. Purchasing one of these beautiful rugs helps to alleviate poverty in one of the poorest nations on our planet.

Valley Voice Magazine. For people who love to eat, live, play and shop in the Cowichan Valley.

23

Fresh Local Seafood Cowichan Bay Seafood

1751 Cowichan Bay Road, Cowichan Bay 250 748-0020

Proudly offering seafood that meets the criteria of the Sea Choice program, offering sustainable and local seafood products and gourmet groceries.

Mad Dog Crabs

775 Canada Avenue, Duncan 250 715-0206 www.maddogcrabs.ca

Sustainable, Fresh Seafood. Owners Scott & Katie Mahon, fisherman with over 30 years fishing experience. Voted best retail seafood outlet on Vancouver Island. Large sustainably harvested seafood variety offered: crab, halibut, salmon, scallops, smoked/candied salmon and more.

Meats

Cafes and Bakeries Sunflower Cafe

2-149 Canada Avenue, Duncan 250 746-5233

A seasonal, evolving menu. Inside this charming and inviting cafe you will find innovative food which highlights on fresh, local, & organic ingredients.

True Grain Bakery

Cowichan Bay & Mill Bay Centre 250 746-7664, 250 929-1119 www.truegrain.ca

Traditional European breads, handcrafted daily from only the essential natural organic ingredients to preserve the flavours and integrity of the true grain.

Pastries, cookies and other sweets too. Gift items include preserves, teas and gift baskets.

The Duncan Garage Organic CafĂŠ And Bakery - The Community Farm Store

Windhorse Farm

101-330 Duncan Street, Duncan 250 748-6223

Certified Organic beef farm in Glenora operated by Tim and Laurice Mock. Raising healthy and delicious grass-fed/finished angus beef, available by the cut.

Offering seasonal gourmet smoked beef products.

Phone for details.

Saison Market Vineyard

3900 Rowe Road, Glenora 250 748-2585 www.windhorseorganics.ca

Cowichan Valley Meat Market

5191 Koksilah Road, South of Duncan 250 746-8732

Offering grain fed beef, pork, lamb and veal from Westholme Farms. All animals are fed home grown forage with no added hormones and no animal byproducts. Large selection of salamis, deli meat, and specialty coils, for holiday platters.

The Duncan Butcher

430 Trans Canada Hwy, Duncan 250 748-6377 www.duncanbutchershop.com

Organic beef, chicken, free run buffalo and venison, hormone free non medicated beef, pork, chicken, turkeys and house made sausage, pepperoni, hams, bacons, sausage rolls, smokies , garlic coils, meat loafs and more!

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ORGANIC HOLIDAY BAKING for the full month of December: Choose from fantastic fruit cakes, Christmas cookies, fruit and pumpkin pies, butter rolls, challah wreaths, stollen and much more. Lots of kamut, spelt, vegan, gluten free and wheat free options.

Saison Market Vineyard 7575 Mays Road, North Cowichan

The Best of the Season at Saison includes German butter Stollen, housemade Tourtiere , Festive Fruitcake, Pane Forte, holiday sweets and treats perfect for entertaining and gift giving. Open Saturday & Sunday from 9am – 4pm through to December 24. Closed in January.

Artisan Cheese Moonstruck Organic Cheese Inc 1306 Beddis Road, Salt Spring Island 250 537-4987 www.moonstruckcheese.com

For Any Occasion...think about the gift of cheese.

We offer 3 special gift boxes delivered anywhere in Canada for $85 -includes shipping and handling.

Choose from a mixed box, True Blue box or the No Blue Box. To special mail-order or to contact us phone/fax us at 1-250-537-4987 to place an order.

holiday

guide for

FOOD

mindful living

An easy guide to help you decide where to go for mindful gifts, food and services this holiday season.

Health Food & Grocery

Specialty Tea and Coffee

Mercia’s Vitamins

Teafarm

Vitamins, Tinctures, Herbal Supplements, Natural Natural Beauty and Body Care, Essential Oils, Bulk Herbs and Foods, Homeopathics, Natural and Organic Foods, Pet Food and Supplements, Cleaning, Drinks and Confectionary.

Organic artisan loose leaf teas. Visit our teashop + gallery and select from over 70 estate grown teas available in bulk. Receive 10% off when you refill your tins.

141 Craig Street, Downtown Duncan 250 748-4445 www.mercias.ca

Lynn’s Vitamin Shop

4-180 Central Avenue. Village Green Mall (Next to Sears) 250 748-4421

Unique Gift ideas: ‘Fruit and Nut Baskets’ - Hostess Gift under $10, Non Toxic Candles, Salt Lamps, Fun Children’s Shower Caps, Colorful Slippers, Wool Socks from New Zealand. Organic Skin Care, Cosmetics and Fragrances. Fair Trade Chocolate, Coffee, and Tea.

The Community Farm Store

101-330 Duncan Street, Duncan 250 748-6227 www.communityfarmstore.ca

Duncan’s Organic Marketplace, proudly offering organic groceries, fresh baked bread, baking supplies and bulk foods together with a lovely ethical selection of earth and people friendly gifts including African baskets, Shea Butter products, locally made chocolate and candles, natural beauty and so much more.

8350 Richards Traill, North Cowichan Thursday-Sunday 10am-4pm 250 748-3811 www.teafarm.ca

Moziro Roasters

1761 B Shawnigan - Mill Bay Rd, Shawnigan Lake 250 733-2245 www.moziro.com

Locally roasted coffee and handmade chocolate.

Family owned and operated. Moziro is happy to carry 100% direct trade beans - this means all of their beans are sold direct to them from farmers in Africa.

Holiday Helpers Clean Choice Cleaners 250 929-8381

www.cleanchoicecleaners.com

Providing professional, eco-friendly cleaning services for residential and commercial properties in the South Cowichan Valley.

Holiday and special occasion clean up services available. Give the gift of clean liviing! Gift Certificates available in all amounts.

Valley Voice Magazine. For people who love to eat, live, play and shop in the Cowichan Valley.

25

craft A few weeks ago, I had an epiphany: I was looking at one of my friend’s paintings. She had painted a yellow house on, as she often does, rudely assembled, unevenly shaped, mostly badly weathered and damaged bits of planks and plywood. It was stunning, suggesting a bitter-sweet (re)membering of a rapidly retreating past. I asked whether this crudely crafted “canvas” would impair the painting’s saleability. She pointed to all the screws in the back, saying that it would not fall apart and that, “.... besides, I am interested in ideas.” Thus the epiphany: the difference between art and craft is that craft is always concerned with craftsmanship, with things well made, well done, informed by, and sympathetic to, tradition. And that the more consummate the craftsmanship, the finer the craft.

This epiphany helped me understand another event: In 2007, the Furniture Society of North America held its annual conference in Victoria, and invited 50 furniture makers to show at the Maltwood Gallery at the University of Victoria. Michael Moore was invited. It took him 30 days to make an exact copy of Kristina Madsen’s 1993 “Dining Chair” that is in the collection of the Smithsonian. He showed his chair at this prestigious exhibition not just to showcase his craftsmanship, but to elicit thought on “copying”. So Michael had aimed at an idea, and in so doing had put on the artist’s hat beside that of fine craftsman (and whatever other hats he wears).

By now I am very fond of this epiphany. It has helped me navigate a few shows and articles. I hope it will help others, or at least stimulate thought or discussion.

Michael Moore is a member of the Cowichan Valley Artisans. To visit his or any of the other artisans’ studios, please pick up a brochure at Excellent Frameworks, 28 Station St., Duncan, at Experience Cycling, 482 Trans Canada Highway, Duncan, or go to www.CowichanValleyArtisans.com.

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Local Healing With Jade

hen I was young I used to covet my Oma’s green W jade bangle. It was always so polished and smooth. In our family every female owned a piece of jade. Like a rite of passage, we were given one for beauty, prosperity and luck.

Tina Nordstrand at Cloud 10 Esthetics offers a luxurious jade stone massage. “Jade is a gorgeous, healing, grounding stone,” she says. “One pass with a jade stone is equivalent to seven passes with the hand; it’s very therapeutic.” When the stone is heated it penetrates the muscles even more deeply aiding the relaxation and pressure process. Her treatment uses custom cut convex and cylindrical jade pieces ranging from small to large. Beginning with the feet, she works on the body, into the legs and calves back to front right up to your neck. As Tina worked methodically through my different muscle groups, she BHD.BEd intuitively rested a heated jade stone in my hand, a lovely feeling for my tired, overworked computer fingers. This warm jade massage helps to loosen Solving life’s muscles, working at stiffness and problems with your own improving bloodflow. During my 1 hour+ massage, Tina found inner guidance. problem areas that called for a Working with the Whole Person different type of therapy. Cold jade stones were placed on my tight neck and shoulders.

250-709-9673 This alternating hot and cold treatment using the jade stones $60 / hour was a remarkable feeling. As Etcinchemainus@shaw.ca her treatment combines both Swedish and deep tissue massage www.longboatcounselling.com techniques with the jade in hand, info@longboatcounselling.com

Julia Star

Spiritual Counsellor

• Beads, beading supplies and classes.

• Rare Essence all-natural bath and body care products.

• Dogsbody all-natural pet care products.

the result is a truly therapeutic and relaxing full body session.

At Reiki Wellness, Debbie Shkuratoff offers a very different jade treatment. Hers peeks into the future, with the Jade Roller Infared Massage Bed. Perfect for those who long for a therapeutic session without the chatting. In a setting of low lighting and soothing music, you lie in an ergonomically designed capsule while jade stone rollers begin at your neck, massaging your full back intimately while following the spinal curve.

These rollers systematically roll up and down the back targeting each accupressure point sending ripples of relaxation throughout the body. Each treatment is a 1/2 hour long and as your muscles relax under the rollers, the infared warmth penetrates releasing tension with a surprisingly firm massage.

“The treatment stimulates the lymphatic system and improves circulation while relaxing and warming the body to the core.”

Debbie tells us. I think I fell asleep as the jade’s pressure rolled up and down my contour.

When the jade session was complete, I stood up and climbed out of the capsule and for the first time in years felt my vertebrae aligned. I walked out of that treatment room, revitalized and with perfect posture! An advanced jade therapy that is often used for treating professional sports players, it is offered right here in Cobble Hill.

Definitely one that should be experienced by everyone.

Sheila Badman is raising twin boys in Maple Bay with her husband Richard.

Check our Facebook page for up coming classes and the latest news.

etcinchemainus

9747c Willow St, Chemainus 250 324 2227 Valley Voice Magazine. For people who love to eat, live, play and shop in the Cowichan Valley.

27

Jean Crowder has been the NDP Member of Parliament for Nanaimo-Cowichan since 2004. Crowder.J@parl.gc.ca 1-866-609-9998

Crowder’s Corner

Child care is a priority for most working families. When both parents need to work, they must have access to quality child care that is affordable and secure.

But child care is not a priority for this Conservative government.

And we are starting to see the effects – seven different daycares have closed recently in Nanaimo-Cowichan. And parents are starting to pull children out of after-school programs because the fees are prohibitive.

That doesn’t mean those parents can be home to greet their children after school – instead we are creating a generation of latch-key kids, some as young as five-years-old, whose parents have no other option because they must work to feed their families.

A Living Wage for Families has said that a publicly funded child care system in BC that offered subsidies similar to that of Quebec would reduce monthly costs to $280 for the average family.

Right now families who pay for child care spend nearly 20 percent of their budget on fees. With a publicly funded system, that percentage would drop to less than 7 percent.

Investing in a publicly-funded child care system doesn’t just help families’ – it ensures greater productivity that boosts our economy, a win for all of us.

ne O rainy

evening at a friend’s house I turned around to find myself face to face with a jar of fuzzy, pale, red slush. “Would you say this is a layer of mould, or just a mould spot?” asked my friend Joan, eyeing the contents. Easily

mistaken for a fridge experiment gone amok, Joan created this container of pinkish goo on purpose. She was on a mission to first ferment then save, her own tomato seeds.

With Joan’s petrie dish well on its way, my thoughts turned to others who have dabbled in the age-old tradition of saving seed.

What of the tales of triumph and tears from growers in all corners of our community?

Submit a narrative about your seed saving experience and it could become a part of “Seed

South Cowichan Candidate Forums Shawnigan Lake District

Shawnigan Lake School – Hugh Wilkinson Theatre Thursday November 3rd – 7:00 P.M. Partnering with Shawnigan Residents Association

Mill Bay District

Mill Bay Community League Hall Tuesday November 8th – 7:00 P.M. Partnering with Mill Bay Community League

Cobble Hill District

Cobble Hill Hall Thursday November 10th – 7:00 P.M. For more information phone 250-743-3566 or email southcowichanchamber@shaw.ca

28

Moon Beams: Oh Goddess’ of the Moon! h Goddess’ of the Moon!

Aztecs called her O Coyolxauhqui (Golden Bells),

the daughter of the Earth goddess. Diana is the Roman moon goddess who is linked to wild animals & woodlands with the ability to speak with animals.

Greek moon goddess Artemis, also goddess of childbirth, and protector of young girls. Bendis, Thracian goddess of the moon and hunting. Chinese moon goddess Chang-o (Changwo/Heng-E/Heng-O) was an archer’s wife who was promised immortality by the gods and betrayed him by drinking his magic potion and then fled to the moon in the shape of a frog.

Isis, Egyptian Moon Goddess, gave birth to Horus, the god of the sun. Incan Moon Goddess Quilla, also the protector of married women. Ix Chel, Mayan Moon Goddess, the Sun god’s lover, was very jealous and sent her away to only go off to find her but she would disappear when the sun approached.

Stories from the Cowichan”, a fresh and fun publication about our community’s experiences in saving seed. To submit, email info@cowichangreencommunity. org, or call 250-748-8506.

You can also submit in person at one of CGC’s upcoming “Seed Stories” workshops. In partnership with the Vancouver Island Regional Library, CGC is touring its presentation of the Cowichan’s seed history, as well as an introduction to seedsaving practices. Workshops are FREE and will take place

Moon names for this month are Beaver (Colonial American/ Algonquin) regards setting beaver traps prior to freezing waters to ensure a supply of warm winter furs. Hunter’s (English/Medieval) follows the harvest moon and the abundance of moonlight allows hunters to stockpile winter food stores.

Full Frost or Frosty (Various) as the frosts begin to form on the ground nightly.

In Victoria at 12:16PM on November 10th we have a Taurus Full Moon, like the energy of the Bull is both fixed and earthy with energies of stability and routines and also a bit of irrationality.

At the same time Taurus energy is known as loving, sympathetic and understanding.

Hopefully enough to combat the irrationality!

Robin Massey is a yoga & junior bellydance instructor in and around Shawnigan Lake. www.theomtree.com

on Tuesday, November 8th at the Cowichan Lake Branch and Thursday, November 10th at the South Cowichan Branch.

Both of these events will take place from 6:00 p.m. to 7:30 p.m. For updates, including details about a workshop at the Ladysmith Branch, visit www. cowichangreencommunity.org/ events.

Emily is a member of the Cowichan Agricultural Society and an aspiring farmer. She is proud to live and eat in the Cowichan Valley.

NEW DAY & TIME Monday Evening Meditation 7:00 to 8:30 pm The focus is on calming abiding practise and cultivating mindfulness.

1555 Longwood Road Cowichan Bay

250 709 9673

Meaningful Decor ue and Doug Darlington are Small World Imports, S a family venture that imports

Traditional Tibetan Carpets to Canada. The Darlingtons were introduced to the carpet weaving families by a Tibetan Lama while travelling in Nepal in 2005. Proceeds from the sale of every carpet directly supports an extended family of approximately 40 people in Nepal. 20% of the sale of any carpet bought in 2011-2012 will be donated to the Tibet Resettlement Fund. (please mention this article) They recently recieved their 9th shipment of these beautiful carpets.

The situation in Tibet today is one of cultural genocide. Tibetans continue to flee their homeland by walking over the Himalayas to seek refugee status in India and Nepal. The seeds of the Canadian Tibetan Re-settlement Project were sown in 2007, when the Dalai Lama asked Prime Minister Stephen Harper if Canada would offer Tibetans living in Arunachal Pradesh the opportunity to emigrate to Canada. The request was granted and the government announced an initiative that would see Canada welcome 1,000 displaced Tibetans from Arunachal Pradesh.

The Dalai Lama had a very specific reason when he requested that all the potential immigrants under this program be chosen from the 4 Tibetan refugee camps in the north eastern Indian province of Arunachal

Pradesh. The remoteness and inaccessibility of the region is matched only by the very dire conditions that most of the inhabitants of these camps endure. The Tibetans living there lead a very simple life consisting mainly of subsistence farming.

The intensity of monsoons in the region affects the success of their harvest and, lacking a clean water system, they drink water from the river, which often leads to disease.

Many children die of common childhood illnesses, as the families have difficulty accessing medical care and many do not go to school, as they are needed to work on the family farm. Local job opportunities are few.

The Darlingtons buy the carpets directly from the 2 family cooperative. The sale of 1 carpet contributes to the sustenance of approximately 40 people. If you happen to be downtown in Duncan, have a look at a small selection of the carpets on consignment at Embellish on Kenneth St. They might be just what you are looking for your living room and by purchasing one you will make a huge difference to the livelihoods of these creative and hardworking families in Nepal.

Kundalini Yoga Classes

Victoria, Cowichan Valley, Nanaimo, Denman Island 250-701-8448 SunriseYoga@shaw.ca www.Awakened-Heart.ca

Please have a look at the website: www.smallworldimports.ca

Image Sue Darlington; 2 sizes of hand knotted Tibetan carpets

Valley Voice Magazine. For people who love to eat, live, play and shop in the Cowichan Valley.

29

Green Living: Natural Disinfectants Home Recipes

Mix ingredients in a spray bottle and shake well.

Lavender & Tea Tree Spray 2 cups of distilled water ¼ cup of white vinegar ¼ tsp lavender essential oil ¼ tsp tea tree Lemon & Thyme Spray 3 tbsp vodka or witch hazel 4 oz. of distilled water 18 drops of lemon essential oil 7 drops of clove essential oil 10 drops of Thyme essential oil

that time of year again. The Iint’scooler, damp weather has set and school is back in session,

with that our exposure to all those nasty little germs and viruses is increased. Brings to mind that old adage, an ounce of prevention is worth a pound of cure. Cleaning with natural disinfectants offers some preventative measures you can take to help protect you and your family.

There are a variety of disinfectant sprays you can easily make at home, see recipes above whichever one you use the main objective is to regularly clean all the “high touch” surfaces in your home. Think about all of

the items the get handled frequently, these include doorknobs, light switches, phones, TV remotes, cupboard and drawer handles etc. If someone in your home is already sick pay particular attention to all the bathroom and kitchen surfaces to prevent the spread to other family members.

Microfiber has quickly become commonplace in most homes and for good reason. When it comes to disinfecting, studies show that a damp microfiber cloth, without any additional cleaning agent, actually picked up more bacteria from test surfaces than bleach killed. Definitely valuable to have in your cleaning kit, just be sure to have multiple cloths for different surfaces and launder them regularly to avoid cross contamination.

Of course, diet and other healthy lifestyle choices are important factors in maintaining good health but being proactive in limiting exposure to illness is certainly a step worth taking.

Tracey Paleczka, local mompreneur and owner/operator Clean Choice EcoFriendly Cleaning Services www.cleanchoicecleaners.com

WINGS III Opportunity Store You’ll always find a treasure!

Donations Gratefully Accepted

Bring your quality womens and childrens clothing, natural fibres, household gadgets, jewelry, nick nacks and small furniture.

250 746 9906 Open Mon - Sat 10am - 5pm 193 Station St at Jubilee, Downtown Duncan

30

Photo Alex Bailly Borkovic holds Bennett’s Canada Parliament witness document, in front of his securely restricted analog meter.

Smart Meters Are Illegal

oseph Borkovic is concerned about BC Hydro ‘smart’ J meters. He has no wi-fi,

microwave oven, or cordless phone in his home or office, nor does he use a cell phone.

“When I heard about these meters, I did some research.

What I found is simple.” In Switzerland and France, wi-fi is being taken out of the schools because it has been found to negatively affect children’s performance, attendance, and health. On May 31, 2011, the World Health Organization (WHO) and International Agency for Research on Cancer (IARC) classified radio frequency electromagnetic fields as possibly carcinogenic to humans (Group 2B), based on an increased risk of cancer, associated with wireless phone use — in the same class as DDT and lead.

Man-made wireless systems interfere with our natural biosystems. Wireless (electromagnetic induction) signals — wi-fi, cell phones, smart meter signals — go through walls, ceilings, wood, concrete, and people. These signals affect your body cells, tissues, and DNA. Top US lawyers are preparing for the largest legal liability battle in US history over nonionizing (wireless) radiation.

Insurance companies, after their own independent research, are taking the position not to cover liability/health claims stemming from wireless technology. Since January 2011, doctors in the USA

receive a mandatory medical course on identifying symptoms of wireless radiation fatigue and sickness. The Canadian Human Rights Commission recognizes this as a legitimate medical condition.

In September 2011, at the yearly Union of Municipalities, representatives voted 55.1 percent for a moratorium against ‘smart’ meters. Rich Coleman of BC Hydro and Christy Clarke said the meters will be installed anyway.

Borkovic’s research made him wonder whom to believe. Curtis Bennett, an electrical engineer testified in front of Parliament in October 2010 that current wireless technologies are unsafe and illegal under the current Health Canada legislation Safety Code 6. Borkovic asked Bennett, “Could you be wrong about ‘smart’ meters or wireless technology? The BC government says it’s safe.” Bennett was adamant, “To say it is safe, is to deny electricity exists. Under the current legislation, the installation of ‘smart’ meters and all wireless devices are illegal. This is not an opinion but scientific fact: electricity is real. I sent my testimony to Rich Coleman and Christy Clarke. For them to proceed installing ‘smart’ meters with this knowledge is criminal negligence. Refusing installation of a ‘smart’ meter on your house or business is not only legal, but critical to your health.”

For more info visit: http://citizensforsafetechnology.org Submitted by Joseph Borkovic.

Red Willow Womyn’s Centre

A Clean Start hen it comes to soap, W the Red Willow Womyn’s Society is the clean

choice. They ran the Eco Store in downtown Duncan for 2 years, selling dish soap, laundry soap, shampoo and general cleaners that brighten the toughest conscience stains.

There are good environmental and quality reasons to buy their products: biodegradable, made in Canada, refillable containers, and a 100% satisfaction guarantee. But most importantly, it supports a great local organization.

The Red Willow Womyn’s Society uses the profits to support women struggling with boundary issues.

They may do court accompaniment, help women out of isolation, transition back into employment, or a host of other vital services.

But a few months ago, this organization that supports so many womyn in crisis, itself became homeless. Facing eviction, the centre appealed to the public and raised more than enough money to cover their debts. But they were evicted anyways. Executive Director Patti Delisle reflects, “We didn’t look like ‘regular business’ to someone and so we were pushed out, back into the invisibility where most of us live. Like one womyn said, ‘It is like living in the shadows of our lives, always working from yesterday. I liked knowing I could come here

and meet womyn who were having the same struggles.’’

But just like the womyn they serve, Patti and her volunteer team are bouncing back with determination and vision.

They hosted a homelessness forum together with Social Planning Cowichan and are starting a documentary on womyn’s homelessness. They have secured space from Volunteer Cowichan in the basement of Duncan’s city hall. And the soap products are still available from Asset Bookkeeping - Suite 101, 255 Ingram St, 701-0404, with all profits supporting the Womyn’s Centre. Patti Delisle shares some hope coming out of this challenge: “Regardless of what happened, the humanity we have received from so many people in this valley is absolutely profound.

Business owners, local people, and those who are in need have called, offered, and sent their kindness to us. “We are not alone anymore - we often felt we were but the local community does care and has really shown that.

We are proud to be a part of the Cowichan Valley, and although we miss our old place very much we know we belong here, with you the people of the Warm Land.”

Rick Juliusson supports non-profits with sustainable fundraising and organizational development.

FreeRangeConsulting.ca

A Number of Resins to Recycle

W

ithout sounding sarcastic, isn’t plastic fantastic?

Sometimes it’s rigid, sometimes it’s elastic. Its uses are so flexible you could say it’s gymnastic. Yes, plastic’s fantastic — if you learn its mathematics. When it comes to recycling, it’s all in the numbers.

Each piece of plastic polymer is stamped with a numeric identifier, letting all know just what type of material they are burying in the ground, drinking from, or wearing as pants.

For example, soft drinks and peanut butter can be found in containers marked with the Plastic Identification Number 1.

If you find a piece marked Number 2, you may have yourself a grocery bag or a hula-hoop. Number 7 runs the gamut from baby bottles to riot shields. When it comes down to it, the numbers only really matter to the average consumer when it comes to recycling, and in Cowichan, it couldn’t be easier.

If the piece of plastic you want to recycle has a number between 1 and 7, and if it’s clean, you can put it out with your curbside recycling collection program. The exception to this rule is the Number 6 Styrofoam, which can’t be collected curbside. Don’t fret, though. The Styrofoam can be recycled, along with a multitude of other items, at the Cowichan Valley Regional District’s Bings Creek Transfer Station.

The CVRD makes it so simple, they only ask that Styrofoam be sorted out — even plastic bags can be put with the rest of the hard plastics. Where the numbers are most effective is when they aren’t stamped on the material. If the plastic is without a Aaron Bichard number, chances are good it’s is co-owner of garbage.

Cowichan Recyclists So, count yourself fortunate to an ecologically sustainable and live in a place where recycling responsible company plastics is so simple, and pay helping businesses reduce their impact attention to the numbers.

S L

on the environment.

OU

ESCAPE

ESTHETICS Est. Since 2006

The first and only green spa in the Cowichan Valley.

Holiday Shopping Party and Clarisonic Cleansing System launch November 16th from 5-7pm.

• 10% off Eminence Organic Skincare • Prizes • Complimentary treatments! #4 -5777 Trans Canada Hwy, Duncan BC 250.748.2056 www.soulescape.ca

Valley Voice Magazine. For people who love to eat, live, play and shop in the Cowichan Valley.

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Broom Action Plan - At a Glance broom is in bloom, you can cut broom with loppers, and it will die during the dry heat of summer. It is important to cut at ground level or below, so no shoots return. On really big plants, cut off all the green. It will die. Cutting also prevents the blossoms from going to seed. Next year, remove smaller broom that returns.

Image courtesy broombusters.org

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rost has come, and it feels like winter. Many plants have died back, but Scotch broom is looking hardy and well! Don’t be dismayed.

If you want to remove broom during the winter months, it is best to remove the roots. Use a woody weed removal tool for large broom. Small broom can be easily pulled out by hand from wet soil. Pull small broom anywhere - on trails, parks, along roadsides. Nobody likes broom! As always, try not to disturb the soil.From April until early June, while

Season Winter November - March March

We can control Scotch broom!

A few volunteers have gotten rid of almost all the broom in Qualicum Beach – by cutting alone – in 5 years. Cowichan can do it too! Make your plans for the spring. Pick the area you care about, recruit some help, and go for it. Tools?

Pick up? Help is available.

Here’s to the health of our native ecosystem! www.broombuster.org

Joanne Sales is the founder and director of Broombusters, as well as an organic blueberry farmer and writer.

Check out www.broombusters.org.

Key broom points to remember:

• Cut broom in bloom, while the energy of the plant is in the flowers.

• Cut completely at ground level, using long handled loppers.

• Disturbing the soil will encourages broom seeds in the soil to sprout.

• As with all invasive plants, start with the light infestations first.

Contain the spread.

• If the broom is too large to cut at base, then cut all branches with green leaves.

• Cutting works great, if done correctly at the right time of year.

What is Broom Doing?

Action Plan

Broom stays green.

Pull young broom by hand. Use weed puller tools on larger broom plants. Do not cut broom during the rainy season.

New Growth. Seeds sprout.

Plan and organize with others. Gather tools.

What do you want to accomplish this spring?

Contact local governments for help.

Broom is in bloom

Cut the Bloomin’ Broom! Remove light infestations first to control the spread. Use loppers.

Cut broom dies in summer’s heat.

June & July

Seed pods form.

Stop moving cut broom after the seed pods form. If you cut, pile in already infested areas.

August

Seed pods burst

Don’t spread the seeds! Leave broom be.

Autumn

Broom still growing.

Late April - June

Burn piles you cut during the summer. Replant native trees to eventually stop broom from regrowing.

NOVEMBER 19th ELECTION TACTIC - PLUMPING Does the thought of checking off all the boxes for council candidates fill you with dread? Did you know that you don’t have to select all? Or that voting for less may actually be a good thing? Plumping allows voters to vote for fewer than the number of candidates to be elected. It permits voters to concentrate their voting power on those they support, rather than being constrained to also vote for those they oppose.

Rather than voting for all eight council positions a voter can chose to vote for simply one, two or more if they wish.

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Source nanaimosouthendvotes.wordpress.com

Helpful Garden Winter Vacation

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inter comes on gradually here in the Cowichan Valley. It’s not like back east where the seasons are much more pronounced.

Here, it creeps up on you slowly until you realize suddenly that your garden is finished for the season and it’s time to shut down until spring.

Like a winter garden, so shall this column be hibernating until springtime arrives again and the hellebores, snow drops and daffodils burst into life. Have a warm and safe winter Holiday season, and find time to stop and smell the sarcococca (ha! try saying that quickly 3 times). If you know what it is, you’ll be smelling it in January. If

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you don’t know what it is, go get one at your local garden center and plant it somewhere close to your front door in the shade. You’ll thank me later...

Look for notification in December’s Valley Voice for the annual Disney Christmas Extravaganza that our neighbours and we display during the month of December. Mickey, Minnie, Goofy, Nemo, Bambi et al will be on hand to wish you a Happy Holiday. New this year will be some favourite characters from “The Lion King”, “Monster’s Inc” and “Aladdin” and a donation box benefiting the SPCA through your donations.

Ajay Oppelaar is President of the Mill Bay Garden Club. For club membership information or other questions contact him at arkengardens@gmail.com.

November Wild Foods

reezing temperatures brings to sharper focus the significance of warming and cooling foods. A nice wildfood breakfast might start out with some stinging nettle seed and nettle greens if the patch has some new greens growing without seed. The mature seed will give you a waffle-cone taste and the greens will give a sweet greens milk taste. Then, hedge mustard seed. or new greens. with their very hot little yellow flowers warm your body. Next, choose some wild lettuce seed and wild carrot seed to give a another boost in body warmth (no wild carrot seed for pregnant or nursing mothers). Cleaver seed, or some other plant that has body to it, is like chewing coconut or other nuts, extends how long you enjoy the flavours,

and cleans your teeth as you chew. If you eat some hairy cats ear flowers, or nipplewort new tops, you will think you are eating a chocolate bar with nuts or coconut in it. That roasted bittersweet flavour that we love so much in molasses, coffee, and chocolate is available with lots of variations. Salty foods can remain hidden from taste, but if you dry out the plant, the salts become more manifest.

Seaweeds and stinging nettles both taste very salty when eaten dry. Wild lettuce, yarrow, various thistles and some lettuces manifest salts.

Roger Foucher is a wild food enthusiast who is persuaded by all the creatures around us that they see it right.

WEBSITES, EMAILS AND VERBAL LINT

FREE!

Figured that would get your attention.

Truth is, just about everything is free at your local Vancouver Island Regional Library branch. Just sign up for a free library card. VIRL has all of my favourite authors. (I have checked out books by James Lee Burke, Martin Amis, Jane Austen and William Gibson) and current bestsellers like The Help and Bossypants.

If you like your text with images there is a Graphic Novel section with everything from Seth’s Palookaville to Randall Kleist’s Johnny Cash: I See a Darkness, the illustrated life story of the Man in Black. If you like text with talk there are hundreds of audiobooks to choose from. It’s a multimedia mecca with CDs ranging from rock and jazz to opera and classical (I’ve listened to everything from country star Tanya Tucker to jazz guitarist Barney Kessel) and DVDs for every taste. See the mesmerizing Louise Brooks in the silent film classic “Pandora’s Box”, Erroll Flynn swashbuckling his way through “Captain Blood”, The Marx Brothers clowning around in “A Night in Casablanca” and Julia Roberts embarking on a journey of self discovery in “Eat Pray Love”. The Young Adult DVD section has everything from “Gossip Girl” TV episodes to Japanese manga. There is also lots of stuff for kids! If you don’t see what you want place an order with the friendly folks at the front desk and they will import your choice from any branch on the Island. There are 38 of them including branches Duncan, Chemainus, Lake Cowichan and South Island. Check the website (virl.bc.ca) for complete details. To paraphrase an old pop song, “The library is made for everyone/And the best things in life are free!”

MONSTER JAM: The Sunday Jams are back at Black Swan and whether you are a musician or someone who likes to listen to live local music you’re invited. The Cookie Monsters trade off hosting duties with Dave Spinks Sunday afternoons at the popular Shawnigan pub. “It’s getting cooler outside again so its time to head inside and play music,” says Monster axeman/vocalist Shawn Wilm.

BLACKBERRY ALERT: Reader Della Dee James reminds me “gypsy/swing/indie/acoustic/novelty/but mostly fun” Vancouver combo Blackberry Wood are booked for a Nov. 25th gig at Crofton Hotel. “These guys are a blast!!

Costumes and antics are awesome, musical talent is outrageous and most of them look way too young to be this good!”

Valley Voice Magazine. For people who love to eat, live, play and shop in the Cowichan Valley.

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he Cowichan Wellness Expo is located in beautiful Cowichan Bay. This wellness event features healing arts, practitioners providing workshops and presentations as well as exhibitors displaying holistic wares. This is a FREE event open to the community and suitable for all ages.

“People will come to treat the body, mind and soul together to attain optimal wellness” says organizers Tracy Scheck & Dar Jmayoff. “The Cowichan Wellness Expo is a fantastic venue for individuals and families to learn how to incorporate holistic practices into their lives. The community is being introduced to various methods of the healing arts all under one roof. Our first show was well received by the community, encouraging us to move forward with a second show! We are very excited to provide a two day event which will inspire, engage and empower the Cowichan Valley! Attendees will be able to experience “mini” sessions from various holistic practitioners and find a therapy suitable to the individual. The Cowichan Wellness Expo provides insight into what is available for holistic healing.

Nurturing the body, mind and soul keeps balance within, creating health.”

Educational workshops, presentations and exhibitors include: • ARC Bodywork • Hypnosis • Intuitive Readings –Tarot, Palm, Tea Leaf • Reiki • Reflexology • Aromatherapy • Doukhobor Body & Energy Reading • Chair Massage • Indian Head Massage • Doula • Hand crafted spa and body products • Teas • Yoga • Meditation • Holistic Consulting

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Featured Practioners

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Danette Noble, Registered Clinical Hypnotherapist

Heart Felt Care Sheila Jones

cowichanvalleyhypno.com

HOLISITIC PRACTIONER

250 709 7380

HYPNOTHERAPY

Danette Noble, offers sessions in pain control, weight management, smoking cessation, addressing fears & phobias, attaining better focus & study habits, overcoming anxiety, stress release, relaxation of mind & body.

New this winter - Hypno-Baby Birthing TM. Physical, mental, emotional or spiritual issues.

Wellness Expo

Cowichan Wellness Expo

Cowichan Wellness Expo November 26 & 27 9:30 – 5:30pm Oceanfront Suites at Cowichan Bay For more information e-mail cowichanwellness@gmail.com

Facebook: Cowichan Wellness

DONA Trained Birth Doula Merle Enge 250 217-6255 www.doula-birth.com

PRENATAL & LABOUR SUPPORT A Birth Doula provides support to Moms (and partners) emotionally and physically during pregnancy, labour and delivery, which can result in fewer occurrences of medical intervention and pain relief through drugs. Doulas help you create the birth experience you want!

Pre-natal/Post-natal and Mom-Baby Yoga; Indian Head Massage

250-597-3212 www.holisticnc.ca

Working with people and with animals, using nutrition and also alternatives to traditional medicine. Working in coordination with doctors during healing process. Enjoy my exhibition and my presentation at the Wellness Expo. All people and animals are in need of guidance in nutrition, relaxation, energy balance pain, and stress relief.

Guidance in nutrition, relaxation, energy balance, pain for people & animals.

D # d 7 f o a r h n

I F M

Reiki Wellness & The Zen Room Debbie Shkuratoff 250 743-8122 www.reikiwellness.ca

REIKI MASTER TEACHER Relax, Renew, Detoxify and Balance..We offer treatments using detoxifying Foot Spas, Infrared Jade Roller Massage Capsule, Amethyst Bio Mat, Reiki, Craniosacral, Reflexology, Massage, Kangen Water and Herbal Supplements.. It’s never too late to change your life and your health.

A T t l o E i “ A f b l

Reiki Classes - Teaching “Spiritual, Mental, Physical, Emotional Balancing and Healing on all levels

S p c

Reflexology & Reiki

by Terri Terri Lewis

250 709-2388 www. terriswellness.com

BODY WORKER

Medical Qi Gong Rommy Verlaan 250-749-6563 www.heartsongflutes.ca

MEDICAL QI GONG

Fine Art of Intention Feng Shui Terri Perrin

1.250.218.4952 www.FAOIFengShui.com

FENG SHUI CONSULTANT

Did you know that stress is the #1 killer? 75% of stress causes diseases. Foot Reflexology has 7200 nerve endings in each foot that correspond to every organ & part in your body, by applying pressure on these reflexes, Foot Reflexology will help to balance your body naturally.

Medical QiGong, an ancient teaching, creates balance in our physical, energetic and spiritual bodies. First, clearing negative energy from past emotional and physical traumas, and then filling our bodies with fresh clear energy by gathering and breathing from our environment.

Terri Perrin is passionate about helping people reach their full potential by ensuring their homes/offices are energetically nourishing. Learn about feng shui … an ancient art for a modern world. Author of: The Complete Guide to Feng Shui Crystals on Amazon.ca.

Indian Head Massage, Thai Foot Reflexology, Chair Massage, Energy Work

Breath, Movement, Visualization, Meditation combine to create Health, Healing & Vitality!

Feng Shui for home and office ... for better health, wealth & relationships.

Amy Hanson Bodywork Amy Hanson

Cloud 10 Esthetics Tina Nordstrand

AmyHansonBodywork.com

ESTHETICS AND MASSAGE SERVICES

250 743-6126

CERTIFIED ARC BODYWORK THERAPIST

Vernice Vita Yoga Mats Richard Badman

250 746-9319 www.vvita.ca/rbyoga

MEMORY FOAM YOGA MATS The VV mat provides a comfort layer that relieves pressure points and pain in joints that no other mat offers. The skid proof bottom and top layer aids in minimal slipping of your hands and feet. Maximize your practice, minimize your pain. Better Mat - Better Yoga Stabilize and relieve with comfort, support & unique design.

250 597-3333 cloud10esthetics.com

As an ARC Bodywork Therapist it is my pleasure to assist people to deeply listen to the innate wisdom of their bodies. During the Expo, I will be doing an interactive presentation called “Intuition:Your Greatest Ally” that will provide tools for people to take away to become more clear in their life direction.

The ancient practice of using jade pieces heated and cooled providing wonderful self care in the areas of stress reduction and relief from muscle tension allowing you to find comfort and peace.

We also offer natural nail care featuring our foot health oriented pedicure leaving you with twinkle toes just in time for the Holidays.

Self-development, spirituality, personal growth, resolve internal conflict, improve health.

Foot health care, improving general well being, relief from stress and muscle tension Valley Voice Magazine. For people who love to eat, live, play and shop in the Cowichan Valley.

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W

What would Miss Polly do?

hen a baby is born in the hospital he or she is given a simple gift of a hat from the nurses. The hat looks cute and actually serves as protection for the sensitive brain as the fontanelles are open. The hat also helps regulate the baby’s temperature. The article is soon removed for a photograph or quickly outgrown and rarely replaced. Why replace the hat?

Quite simply a hat facilitates the body’s ability to maintain warmth. We grow from the middle out or proximal distally and from the head down or cephaloaudally. The nerves and temperature sensation grow out to the skin. Therefore, a child cannot feel if he or she is cold even if the child’s skin is warm to the touch. The blood that feeds the organs is being called to the skin to maintain warmth.

I know some parents may intentionally not give a hat to their child to toughen them up or to harden them to being warm. The child may compensate by continuously moving to generate heat with large muscles or compensate by using stored energy for warmth instead of for cell growth in organs, muscle tissue and bones. Being cold even hinders a child’s ability to relax and play. Imagination growth is at risk. Now that is tough.

So how do we actually get the hat on the child’s head? Several ways. First, set a good example: wear a hat yourself. Second, really believe that this is a good habit like wearing a seat belt or brushing your teeth. Third, provide a Paulette Tarnawski ECCE, WECE is an educator of Parents and comfortable hat. One that is too tight or too itchy or Children in the Waldorf method. too hot will never stay on. Fourth, allow your child She is constantly being asked to wear the hat much of the time even at the dinner for advice from many local table. This will save on heating bills and hair cuts. parents.

Nurses everywhere will quietly thank you.

Dancing for Birth omen world-wide should have the enjoyment of W dancing their babies into the

world. In Dancing For Birth ™ classes women learn movements designed to encourage intuitive “vertical birth.” The founder of the Dancing For BirthTM movement, Stephanie Larson, says “women can learn how to harness gravity and move their bodies during labor for more satisfying births”(visit www. dancingforbirth.com) Local Dancing for Birth instructor Sybille Webb trained with DFB founder Stephanie Larson in Seattle, WA. Now she is forming classes as a certified DFB Instructor here in Duncan.

These enriching pre- and post natal classes will be an important

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STICS

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•

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addition to the Cowichan Valley’s available birth services.

Dancing For Birth classes teach a “language of movement” specially designed for pregnant and postpartum women. The movements during the 90-minute weekly classes are inspired by ancient dance forms (like Belly dance and African dance), which combine dance fitness with littleknown childbirth preparation skills such as optimal fetal positioning. “Modern day women want to celebrate birth and be transformed by it!” says Larson.

“They have innate wisdom of how to give birth with ease, and Dancing For Birth ™ classes help awaken and trust their abilities.” Women often come to class simply for fun and fitness, and find that they gain more than they expected to.

Image of Ahlye dancing for birth.

on Thursday mornings, 9:30 – 11:00am. For more info please call 250 715 0716.

Sybille Webb is offering Dancing For Birth™ classes in Duncan

Sybille Webb, dancer and an artist offers classes here in the Cowichan Valley. www.beyondideas.ca www.danceyourbirth.com

Duncan Dynamics Gymnastics Club We host Children’s Indoor Birthday Parties!

Contact us for more information or to book a birthday party today!

Island Savings Centre, Duncan – 250-746-0193 – www.ddgc.ca

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Inspired by Christmas Wonder

y children were getting M excited about spending Christmas in Quebec. Snow,

skating on the lake, family dinners at the chalet. But that year, I knew I would be in for some extra excitement when my kids innocently announced to me: “We want to put on a Christmas Fair for our cousins!”

Being a parent at the Sunrise Waldorf School, November means Christmas Fair - a daylong festive extravaganza in which corners of our school are transformed into gnome forests and cookie caves, and the halls fill with the sound of singing and the smells of beeswax candle dipping.

My children wanted to bring some of that magic to our rustic chalet in Quebec.

There, my oldest daughter transformed our bedroom into an “Enchanted Garden”. The room was lit by tealights in glasses wrapped in birch bark and pine needles. With silk cloth and wooden gnomes she had made, she created myriad magical scenes - a mountain with a waterfall, ducks riding on shell boats, a gnome family storytelling by a fire.

My five year old turned into an imp sitting in the “Cookie Cavern”, a mysterious space created by suspended blankets and strung with cookies she had baked. She would mischievously peek out from under the drapery

and grab our guests to come in and choose their cookies.

My partner and our son did “Blow the Boat”. In our clawfoot bathtub, a snowmanball became a floating iceberg, and a big fir branch served as a forest backdrop. My three year old son showed our guests how to blow the walnut shell boats.

His two year old cousin was totally enraptured by the scene, navigating his boat around the iceberg many times over.

Our Christmas Fair was a welcome interlude in the midst of many late nights and hectic days. What amazed me the most was that the children could create this enchantment, and yet be so enraptured by it at the same time. It reminded me of how the simplest materials can create the best experiences, and how our children thrive when they can tap into the wellspring of imagination and the natural world.

Maki Ikemura is a physician in Duncan and a parent at Sunrise Waldorf School. The “real thing” takes place at Sunrise Waldorf School Christmas Fair: November 19 10 – 3 pm 4344 Peters Road, Cowichan Station.

Valley Voice Magazine. For people who love to eat, live, play and shop in the Cowichan Valley.

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Valley Voice Magazine. For people who love to eat, live, play and shop in the Cowichan Valley.

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Candidate info featured in this section is paid advertisement.

To register to vote, you must bring at least two documents that provide evidence of your identity and place of residence. At least one of the documents must contain your signature.Types of acceptable documents include a B.C. Driver’s Licence; B.C. Care Card; Social Insurance Card; credit card; bank debit card; a telephone, electric, gas or cable bill; and a real property tax notice.

North Cowichan Voting

CVRD Area Voting

8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m

8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m

Chemainus Seniors Drop-In Centre 9824 Willow Street Crofton Elementary School 8017 York Road

A Mill Bay/Malahat

B Shawnigan Lake 2804 Shawnigan Lake Road, Shawnigan Lake C Cobble Hill

Maple Bay Elementary School 500 Donnay Drive

3060 Cobble Hill Road, Mill Bay

3550 Watson Road, Cobble Hill

D Cowichan Bay 1501 Cowichan Bay Road, Cowichan Bay E Cowichan Station/Sahtlam/Glenora 2965 Jacob Road, Duncan

Mt. Prevost Middle School 6177 Somenos Road

F Cowichan Lake South/Skutz Falls

North Cowichan Municipal Hall 7030 Trans Canada Highway

G Saltair/Gulf Islands

311 South Shore Road, Lake Cowichan

3172 Garner Street, Chemainus

H North Oyster/Diamond 13470 Cedar Road, Ladysmith

Quamichan Middle School 2515 Beverly Street

I Youbou/Meade Creek 8550 Hemlock Street,Youbou

www.northcowichan.bc.ca

Visit www.cvrd.bc.ca for up to date election information.

Candidates for North Cowichan Municipal Council Jon Lefebure www.jonlefebure.ca North Cowichan

Candidate for Mayor

Ruth Hartmann www.ruthhartmann.ca

North Cowichan Councillor for Re-Elect Robert Douglas www.robertdouglas.ca

North Cowichan Candidate for Councillor 40

North Cowichan needs strong leadership to promote sustainable development, expedite developments within our urban boundaries, protect the environment and build a safe and caring community. We need to be creative and learn do more with less. The current Mayor has raised Municipal Residential taxes 30.84% in the last 2 years and what do we have to show for it? We can build a better Community within a responsible fiscal framework. Let’s work together for a brighter future for all.

Ruth has proven herself over and over again in her past 3 terms as your Councillor for the Municipality of North Cowichan. She has truly raised the bar and is committed to listening to the Community and always has your best interests in mind. Her natural way of being open minded, her brilliant way for forward thinking & vision, and her amazing ability to find solutions that best fit the entire municipality.

Decisive Action - Positive Results As a 29 year old born and raised in the Cowichan Valley, I am running for a seat on North Cowichan Council to bring fresh thinking, new ideas and a long-term vision to our local government. I would like to see North Cowichan take a greater role in addressing the major challenges confronting our community, such as affordable housing, food security, economic development, and environmental sustainability.

Kate Marsh www.katemarsh.ca

North Cowichan Candidate for Councillor Roger Hart www.rogerhart.ca

North Cowichan Candidate for Councillor Jennifer Woike www.jenwoike@shaw.ca

North Cowichan Candidate for Councillor Michael Ruge www.OurCowichan.ca

North Cowichan Candidate for Councillor Barb Lines www.electbarb.ca

North Cowichan Candidate for Councillor

I want our children and grandchildren to be able to live here.

Working together as neighbours, we can create a sustainable, diverse economy with liveable-wage jobs and affordable housing. Using current taxes more thriftily, we can encourage local food production and greener, sustainable alternatives for everything we do. This takes real communication -- consulting before acting, listening before telling, cooperating. I want our “community of communities” to emerge from these crucial times even more vibrant, resilient and harmonious. Join me.

I am concerned that people are able to support their families while living here - both now and for generations to come – so an affordable cost of living, local job creation and sustainable economic development are key to my campaign. I believe in decisive and positive actions for today’s issues and community planning beyond Council’s three year mandate, using my financial expertise to ensure that municipal revenues are well managed and support the implementation of the new Community Plan.

Voting for Jennifer Woike will get you a smart, dedicated and hard working advocate for creating a thriving and healthy community. It is about strengthening our relationships with stakeholders and local governments, growing the local economy and creating an opportunity for business development and success, while maintaining one of the lowest residential tax rates in BC. Fiscal Responsibilty is essential, as voters really are Council’s employers and we need to be accountable to them and vigilant on how we spend their money.

North Cowichan is the Best place to live. We have a responsibility to keep it that way for our children and grandchildren. In order to do that, we must have a quality of life that is interesting and sustainable. As your respresentative on Council, my number one job is to protect this sacred trust to ensure “Our Cowichan” can continue to be the best possible place to live for all of us.

Barb is back! And ready to work hard for you. After a successful term as North Cowichan Councillor from 2002 to 2005, Barb took a break from politics to spend time with her family. Now she has a goal: to make North Cowichan one of the most livable communities in the country. While on council, Barb founded the Economic Development Committee to support local businesses. Barb continues to advocate for employment, affordable housing, and recreational services. Through positive, pro-active leadership, Barb Lines gets things done.

Valley Voice Magazine. For people who love to eat, live, play and shop in the Cowichan Valley.

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Candidate info featured in this section is paid advertisement.

City of Duncan Voting November 19 from 8:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m Duncan Volunteer Fire Department 468 Duncan Street., Duncan. www.duncan.ca

Candidates For City of Duncan Council Paul Fletcher www.electfletcher.com City of Duncan

Candidate for Mayor Jen Holden www.jenholden.ca

City of Duncan Candidate for Councillor

Judy Stafford www.judystafford.ca

City of Duncan Candidate for Councillor

Cassandra Barfield www.electcassandra.ca

City of Duncan Candidate for Councillor Michelle Staples www.staplesforcouncil.ca

City of Duncan Candidate for Councillor 42

Paul’s aim is to improve the Quality of Life for Duncan citizens by achieving Consensus through Consultation and Collaboration with city residents and businesses. He strongly believes that City Hall needs to be responsive to all its citizens and tax payers by providing a structure and process that is accessible to all. He also wants to move economic development, traffic issues, greening of the city and safe streets to the forefront of city issues while keeping tax increases on par with the inflation rate.

A strong voice for youth is needed at council if Duncan is to continue its path to become one of the most sustainable, resilient and livable communities in Canada. Through inclusive collaboration with citizens, business, and community groups combined with innovative planning, Council can support sustainable affordable housing development and create a vibrant localized economy and food system! I believe Duncan has the capacity, resources, and potential to become a role model for other communities who are also thriving to live the future now!

My focus, through working at Cowichan Green Community, is to create a more sustainable community.

This includes increasing access to local food, promoting alternative transportation, and encouraging community partnerships and collaboration between all sectors including government. I’m very approachable and as a Duncan City Councilor, I’ll continue to work with local organizations, bringing everyone together to formulate solutions that are inclusive, environmentally supportive, and forward thinking. I support a more localized economy to increase employment, supporting our youth and seniors.

Cassandra LIVES in Duncan, WORKS in Duncan, VOLUNTEERS in Duncan, and PLAYS in Duncan!

Cassandra’s commitment to YOU is to listen attentively to your concerns and support you in developing solutions. Trained as a professional Social Worker, Cassandra has supported people from many cultures and all ages. Other experience: chairperson of many schools & parish councils, coordinator of large volunteer organization, Duncan B & B owner.

Committed to community; Where food security is part of our common language, a localised economy provides employment and living wages; Where affordable, alternative, sustainable housing and energy solutions are supported by bylaws and legislation; Where urban agriculture provides food security and is a viable economic resource. Where everything from walkers to busses have established, safe and functional routes; With strong vision and engaged Council Duncan has the opportunity to continue to grow into a sustainable, resilient and prosperous community.

CVRD Prospective Candidates

Kelly Musselwhite

Lori Iannidinardo

www.kellymusselwhite.ca

www.reelectlori.ca

Area B: Shawnigan Lake Candidate for Area B Director

Area D: Cowichan Bay Area D Director for Re-Elect

A philosophy/ethics degree solidifies my fundamental political position: the electorate is entitled to a choice on their ballot and a voice that is heard, respected, and advocated by their Representative.

I support rural living, stable taxes, controlled growth, environmental consciousness, fiscal accountability, protection of farmland, human dignity, and transparent governance. I am not in favour of incorporation at this time and reject the Eco Depot location and marginalization. Citizens deserve to be consulted about decisions that impact their lifestyles and families.

A balanced approach to community development that works for everyone economic prosperity and environmental sustainability can go together. Our new OCP, with great community input, will guide us. Fair and accessible regional recreation that gets beyond the north/south divide matters. So does protecting our air and water. Local businesses, farmers, artisans, our many community groups and Cittaslow recognition all contribute to our community’s well-being.

Your community- Your voice.

Valley Voice Magazine. For people who love to eat, live, play and shop in the Cowichan Valley.

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Cowichan Bay Boat Building With Mariner David Skelhon How has your boat building experience led you to the Cowichan Bay Maritime Centre?

I built my first boat almost 30 years ago, in the UK. For over a decade I’ve worked in the Interior, building and restoring classic David Skelhon aircraft and running my own flying school. Boat building was my first enthusiasm and I wanted to get involved again and rekindle my love of ocean sailing. Shortly after relocating to the East Coast of the Island, I heard that the Centre was looking for someone to teach courses as well as build and repair local and classic boats.

What are the key factors in successful boat building?

The key factors are commitment, planning, setting realistic goals, patience and perseverance! I have seen beautifully crafted, oceangoing yachts built in less than 2 years, while many unfinished 16‘ canoes gather dust in basements because these factors were not considered by their initially enthusiastic builders. Boat-building is like a fine meal and the process is best completed by breaking it down into bite-sized chunks, and celebrating the digestion of each part with a glass of good wine!

Describe one of your most enjoyable boat projects?

I wanted to discover more about my maritime heritage and my most enjoyable project was building a 26’ catamaran and sailing around the West Coast of Britain 20 years ago. Building the boat was relatively straightforward, but giving up the stability of a scientist’s career to become a full-time boat-builder and technical writer for sailing magazines was not so easy! It was an exciting and transformative time and it was 5 years from the time I started building to when I finally set out on the 3 month cruise around Britain, which was every bit as rewarding as I had hoped.

Do you own a boat? What is it and where have you sailed?

L

ocal artist Lynda Faulks has donated a painting to the Cowichan Bay Maritime Centre. Her exhibit of Coastal and Nautical Works opens Nov 13th 1-4pm at the centre with an artist’s reception and runs till Dec 17th.

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Since my late 20’s I have owned various boats, using them to sail the Atlantic and the Pacific and many other bodies of water between! Over the years, I have been involved in building many types and sizes of boats, including 16 foot dorys, 35 foot catamarans and 100 foot luxury yachts! A few years back, we fell in love with a cold-moulded wooden sailboat designed by Bill Garden, which will stay with our family for the foreseeable future.

November Horoscopes Georgia Nicols M.A. is Canada’s most popular astrologer. A Buddhist, this Vancouver-based astrologer is featured in regional papers across Canada, the United States, and New Zealand. www.georgianicols.com

Aries (March 21-April 19)

Your sex drive will be super amped this month. Romantic interludes will be sweet and affectionate plus, for some reason, you’re even talking and thinking a lot about sex. (BTW, lose the zebra spandex.) Naturally, this is good news for many because relationships are so challenging now. (Gulp.)

Difficult partnerships are ending.

Factoid. Nevertheless, something is taking place that is transforming your image to the world. You’re starting to appear happier and more affluent to others.

Taurus (April 20-May 20)

You need to get more sleep this month. Accept this and respect your need for more rest. Interactions with others (especially close friends and partners), are going to be unusually significant, in the month ahead.

Fortunately, relationships with others will be affectionate and highly communicative. You’ll enjoy the company of others and vice versa. Someone might help you with the insane chaos that is taking place at home right now. Make sure these renovations moving plans do not take a toll on your domestic peace and harmony.

Life is too short for that.

Gemini (May 21-June 20)

Fasten your seat belts. You want your life to be full of efficiency, effectiveness and productivity. Since this influence has inexplicably grabbed you by the throat, act on it! Make a plan; draw up a list. Prioritize what you want to get done in the next six weeks. More importantly, give yourself the right tools and support materials to do a

great job. Buy paint, cleaning supplies, file folders, shelving, whatever it is you need. With the right tools and support – you’ll do a better job and you’ll also enjoy doing it. Va, va, va, voom!

might receive gifts, goodies and inheritances from others, as well as have the use of things that other people own.

Wouldn’t that be nice?

Cancer (June 21-July 22)

“Show me the money!” (And you really mean it.) Your moneymaking ideas are just one reason you’re focused on your cash trickle right now. You’re also starting to think about your future.

(Fear not: You are not going to be a bag lady.) Plus, you’re tempted to buy beautiful things for yourself and loved ones, in the next month. Fortunately, others, especially partners and close friends, are increasingly beneficial to you. Listen to their advice. Keep your pockets open. Something that happens now might greatly transform an existing relationship. Hmmm.

Ah, ma cherie, life is toujours l’amour for the next month. Enjoy love affairs, romance, vacations, parties, creative and artistic diversions, the theatre, music, the performing arts – and yes, sports – plus playful activities with children. Basically, you want to have fun. And you’re spending money to do all this. Good for you. In the bigger picture, it appears your goals are expanding. You’re starting to expect more for yourself in the future because you see it’s actually possible.

Just a shift in this expectation on your part will suffice to make it a reality.

Leo (July 23-Aug. 22)

For different reasons (according to the details in your life), you will be focused on home, family and domestic matters this month. Many of you will be on a decorating kick.

You’ll also attend to repairs. Many of you will entertain at home more than usual -- enjoying chatty conversations with family and loved ones. You can also expect to spend more time with parents or family members. With Mars in your sign now, you have lots of drive! Privately, you’re considering ways to re-invent your public image and perhaps tweak your life direction in general. Big changes are possible!

Virgo (Aug. 23-Sept. 22)

You ‘re busy with short trips, errands, increased reading, writing and studying, plus more time spent with siblings and neighbours. In fact, this busyness will accelerate the tempo of your days.

This is a particularly strong month for those of you who write, teach, act, edit or drive for a living. Many of you are also thinking about how to expand shared wealth, reduce debt and feel more secure about your future. You

Libra (Sept. 23-Oct. 22)

Scorpio (Oct. 23-Nov. 21)

It’s all about you now, dear Scorpio.

It’s time to recharge your batteries for the rest of the year. The parts of your chart that govern your relationships and your job hold marvelous potential for improvement. You’re cooking on all burners! This week in particular, is an excellent time to take a realistic look in the mirror and ask yourself what you can do to improve your image out there in the world. Don’t be afraid to give up things. This is totally appropriate right now. You are lightening your load before you take a new road, in about 18 months.

Sagittarius(Nov.22-Dec.21)

For the next month or so, it’s in your best interest to play it low key. Naturally, you’ll be enthused about travel and matters related to publishing, the media, higher education, medicine and the law. Nevertheless, in the bigger picture, the month ahead is perfect for contemplation. Why? Your birthday is about a month away. Use this time to give serious thought to what you want your new year (birthday to birthday) to be all about. You are a forward-thinking sign, constantly focused on your future. If you clearly define the goals you want to achieve

(be specific!), your ability to achieve those goals will be waaay easier.

Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan. 19)

This month is a wonderfully popular time! Get out and schmooze with others. Accept all invitations. You’ll meet younger people and creative people in the arts. Because disputes about inheritances, shared property and insurance matters (plus anything you own jointly with others) might arise now – feedback from some of the new people in your life could be helpful. Meanwhile, vacation plans, romance, sports and fun times with children look promising.

Big changes related to creativity and children can take place now. These changes will be for the better.

Aquarius (Jan. 20-Feb. 18)

Your home scene just gets better and better. Not only can you expand where you’re living or perhaps expand your home because of new people moving in, you also feel richer at home. You have an increasing feeling of gratification and personal reward, as you survey your family and where you live. Meanwhile, the Sun and Mercury and Venus are all at the top of your chart, calling attention to you.

Romance with someone older, richer or more established might begin. Be patient with partners because fiery Mars will stir up conflict.

Pisces (Feb. 19-March 20)

Grab opportunities to travel this month. Explore opportunities in publishing, higher education, medicine and the law. Anything goes. The ceiling’s the limit. Dream big! Romance with someone from another culture will begin for some of you. New studies and classes will be stimulating and exciting. Nevertheless, despite all these temptations, you are still busting your buns at work. A new kind of optimism is overtaking you. You’re starting to see exciting possibilities that can materialize in about five years.

www.georgianicols.com

Valley Voice Magazine. For people who love to eat, live, play and shop in the Cowichan Valley.

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Cowichan Feature Listings Welcome to the Valley Voice Feature Listings! Consider including your business in these Feature Listings... they are affordable! Black and White Ads 1X: $85,11X: $50 per issue Colour Ads 1X: $125, 11X: $75 per issue. Contact Adrienne Richards at 250.5106596 adrienne@cowichanvalleyvoice.com for more information and to book your ad for the next issue! View Valley Voice magazine on-line at www.cowichanvalleyvoice.com Dance your Birth

Now located in Duncan...

Hypnosis with Danette Find out your true potential in mind-body wellness.

Offering hypnosis, hypnotherapy and reiki treatments by appointment only.

www.cowichanvalleyhypno.com 250-709-7380

pre- and postnatal classes in Duncan

Thursdays 9:30-11:00am

250 715 0716

* Learn dance movements that support pregnancy, birth & baby’s position * Tone your belly back into shape after birth * Feel witnessed and supported in a circle of pregnant women and new moms * Find your own wisdom through stories and knowledge from different cultures * Find the right support to give the birth you chose!

Sybille Webb www.dancingforbirth.com

Come in, Learn and Experience the joy of textiles.

- Offering on-going classes in many forms of textile arts - Working/teaching studio - Weaving and spinning - Community Looms - Gift Certificates for classes - Unique locally made textiles

Leola’s Weaving Studio

Whippletree Junction 4705 Trans Can Hwy In The Courtyard leolasstudio.blogspot.com

Our mission is to inspire, motivate and most of all... to have fun! We offer encouraging, experienced tap dance instruction for beginners to advanced of all ages.

Free in-home estimates.

Professional,eco-friendly cleaning services for residential & commercial properties in the South Cowichan Valley. Giving you the gift of time, and a naturally clean home to enjoy it in!

Insured ~ Licensed ~ Bonded.

Gift certificates make a great gift for new moms and Tracey Paleczka 250-929-8381 busy people! www.cleanchoicecleaners.com

Memory foam yoga mat with skid proof, bottom layer as well as textured, top neoprene labor for extra grip. PVC Free. Ideal for pre/ postnatal yoga, pilates and those who need more support. Suitable for all types of yoga including,Vinyasa Flow, Power, Bikram, Ashtanga, Iyengar, Gentle and Kundalini.

Lynda Allen 250-748-0934 lyndaallentapstudio@shaw.ca Voice Lessons - Folk, Musical Theatre, Classical, Improvisation, with Cari Burdett BMUS, MMUS from Royal Academy of Music London, England.

Guitar Lessons - Strengthen Fingers, Classical, Folk, Pop, with Massimo Pintus.

Joythroughmusic.com Call to Register 250 701 0978

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www.vvitayoga.ca

Richard 250 746 9319 Vancouver Island and Gulf Islands Distributor The Crafty Cuppa in Chemainus is the perfect place to come and paint your choice from a wide range of Ceramic Bisque-ware. Our studio has all you need to create a personal work of art on pottery.

Painted ceramics can be sealed or glazed & fired.

Great place for birthday parties!

9747 Willow Street Chemainus 250-324-3338 Open 10 am to 5 pm Tuesday to craftycuppa@gmail.com Saturday and late on Wednesdays to 7 pm.

Cowichan Feature Listings Hypnotherapy is a powerful way of accessing the source of problems to effectively change current behaviour. Suitable for anxiety, stress, fears, depression, relationships, weight loss, dependencies and more.

I am dedicated to facilitating safe spaces for healing.

Lori Austein 250-743-5685 laustein@shaw.ca

High quality handwoven traditional rugs and carpets made by Tibetan refugees from Nepal.

Small World Imports Tibetan Rugs and Carpets www.smallworldimports.ca 250-748-6570

Hand-knotted and made of 100% Tibetan wool in a family run venture that houses workers and educates children to alleviate poverty.

CLOUD 10 ESTHETICS FALL SPECIAL $45 for a 1 hour Jade Stone Massage. Relax your mind and body with this stress-reducing treatment. The ancient practice of using jade pieces heated and cooled provides a deep relaxation of the muscle tissue allowing you to find comfort and peace with this full body Tina Nordstrand massage. Call now to book your Jade 250-597-3333 Stone Massage. Offer ends Nov 30th.

1529 Khenipsen Road, Duncan. www.cloud10esthetics.com

Enjoy a seasonal, evolving menu in our warmand cozy café. Serving breakfast, lunch, snacks, baked goods, smoothies, teas and lattes.

Need HOSTING?

Contact us for domain searches, registration, and local hosting.

Home and business packages include custom e-mail addresses, ftp accounts, C Panel access and secure payment services.

250-746-9319 – Duncan

All made in house and with love!

Fresh, Local, Organic!

Located at 149 Canada Avenue across from the Caboose in Duncan Join Us! 250-746-5233

Richard Badman rbadman@gearth.com

Slice of Life Cafe is worth the search! As new owners, we welcome everyone who enjoys great coffee (we proudly serve Caffe Umbria), delectable gourmet pizza by the slice, hearty soups, savory rice bowls, delicious paninis, and baked goodies.

250 715 1020

171 Jubilee Street – Downtown Duncan

*Ask about combination web and print advertising specials.

Do you have mold, moisture, dust, asbestos, or are you suffering from allergies or respiratory problems?

George Staples Residential Indoor Air Quality Investigator CMHC Accredited phone 250-746-0382 geo.sta@shaw.ca www.islandiaq.ca

MAKE YOUR MOVE! with Tom Andrews Helping buyers and sellers live their dream one home at a time in the Cowichan Valley!

Call Tom at 250-245-1111 ext. 304 Tom@IslandHomeSales.com 410A 1st Avenue, Ladysmith www.islandhomesales.com www.tomandrews.ca Valley Voice Magazine. For people who love to eat, live, play and shop in the Cowichan Valley.

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