July Issue 44 by Cowichan Valley Voice

COWICHAN VALLEY FOOD FARMS ART EVENTS RECREATION COMMUNITY

JULY 2012 ISSUE 44

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Valley Voice Magazine -Your Monthly Guide to Living in the Cowichan Valley

Published by Cowichan Valley Voice Magazine Sheila & Richard Badman Contact us at: editor@cowichanvalleyvoice.com 250 746 9319 - 936 Arbutus Avenue, Duncan V9L 5X4

Visit us online at www.cowichanvalleyvoice.com Copy Editor Maeve Maguire

Advertising Enquiries Please Call Adrienne Richards 250 510 6596 or 250 748 0926 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 Please include: Date & Event Title IN SUBJECT Be advised that space is limited to up to 2 spots per business and is prioritized by 1st sent, 1st printed. Next EVENTS deadline July15th for August 2012 Issue. E-mail to: events@cowichanvalleyvoice.com Cowichan Valley Voice Magazine reserves the right to omit and/or edit submitted listings due to space limitations

PAGES Our Community Sansum Point Campaigning: Nicolette Genier 6 July Community Calendar 7 Artist Dale Nigel Goble creates Duncan Poster 14 Art Auction for Cowichan Station Hub 26 Dee Kinnee’s Chemainus Report 30 All About Our Pets 38 Summer Camp Fun For Kids 40 Crowder’s Corner 42 Websites, Emails and Verbal Lint 43 Cowichan Valley Feature Listings 44 Cowichan Valley Directory 46-47

Valley Voices Bill Jones, Bruce Wood, Jo Ludwig, Danny Lanadell, Rick Dennis,Victor Vesely, Larry McIntosh, Nicolette Genier, Dee Kinnee, Roger Foucher, Ajay Appelaar, Heather Walker, Henry Landry, Rommy Verlaan, Rene Deerheart, Dale Nigel Goble, Ryan Hollet, Keary Conwright, KK Hodder, McKenzie Bird, Eva Trinczek, Jean Crowder, Joy Story, Peter Oliphant, Simon Pidcock, Darbi Aichitson, Paullette Tarnawski, Sheila Jones, Tracey Paleczka, Julia Star, Sue McKitrick & The Lovely Georgia Nicols

Local Food and Recipes Rose Coloured Glasses 5 Organic Foodie: Ice Cream is Nostalgia 8 Cowichan Bay Seafoods Japanese BBQ Salmon 10 Cowichan Eating: James Barber Pizza Oven 11 Wild Food Walk 12 Farmhouse Poultry Grilled Chicken with BC Peaches 14 Remembering Salt Spring Farmer John Wilcox 16 CRAFT Cowichan Valley Artisans 17

We welcome your story ideas & photo submissions, however Cowichan Valley Voice Magazine reserves the right to omit and/or edit all submissions for space, clarity, content and style. The opinions expressed in Valley Voice Magazine do not necessarily reflect those of the editor, publishers or other contirbutors.

Farm & Garden Pages On The Farm with Sol Farm 18 Gardening is for the Birds 19 Watering Your Lawn 22

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, Tofino and from the Victoria International Airport Arrivals Hall. Cover Image “Big Momma” One of the first returning Humpback Whales in the Juan De Fuca Strait. Photo courtesy Simon Pidcock, Ocean Ecoventures For more info on tours to see the whales yourself visit www.oceanecoventures.com or call 250 748 3800

We’re excited to announce that Valley Voice is now being distributed from the Victoria Airport... a gateway to the Island! Advertise NOW to over 27,000 local readers and visiting tourists from over 400+ locations! Contact Adrienne Richards for info about prime placement ad spots for tourist season

Now Booking August 2012 Issue 45 AD Deadline: July 18th 250 748 0926 / 250 510 6596 cell adrienne@cowichanvalleyvoice.com

Home & Design A Smooth Finish with Kingfisher Painting 20 Natural Building 21 Designing Green: Recycled Greenhouses 22 Events Lavender Season Festivals 23 Bamberton Celebrates 100 Years 31 Well Workshop for Well Owners 31 12th Annual Buddha In The Park 35 Art, Music, Theatre Imagine That! Artist Eva Trinczek 26 Talking Arts: Rene Deerheart 27 Chemainuse Bluegrass Festival 28 39 Days of Summer Music Festival 29 The Soothing Sounds of the Lakota Flute 34 Sport, Recreation & Healthy Living Cowichan Bay Whale Report 15 Adults Learn to Sail at MBYC 30 Green Living: Many Hands Make Light Work 33 Cycling Cowichan 39 South Island Fishing Report 39 Golf Tips from A Pro 43 Body, Mind & Soul Pitta 34 Community Farm Store Pages 36 What Would Ms Polly Do? 42 Coaches in Your Corner 33 July Horoscope with Georgia Nicols 45 Outnumbered! Sue McKitrick 45

Valley Voice Magazine -Your Monthly Guide to Living in the Cowichan Valley

Rosé Coloured Glasses

he glorious spectacle of Rosé filled glasses has never really excited me. But much to my surprise a bright lively multifaceted wine happened to jump onto my palate. Not just one but many of these strawberry beauties have recently enchanted me. Funny how the popularity of Rosé stems from our love for the hot sunny whites of California. In the seventies Californian wine makers began making whites from reds due to our untamed desire for thirsty patio whites, and the love child Rose was reborn. The popularity of fruity sweet pink wine quickly rose and Rosé just as quickly became over produced and poorly made, often the worst of the fruit was used to produce these unbalanced wines. Everyone from the eighties seems to reminisce their naivety and fond memories for Mateus Rosé. Really, I don’t think I’ve ever even drank a whole bottle of Rosé. But over the last month I’ve tasted six exceptional Rosés and love them all, each for their own dynamic expression of fruit and acid. All

hail from the youngest of wine regions, beautiful British Columbia, and three are right from this very Island. After rigorously tasting hundreds of B.C. wines I have been most inspired by this summer companion, Rosé. Amusé on the vineyard will be presenting an all Rosé wine list along side the ever expanding seasonally paired one hundred percent B.C. wine list. There will be six bright blushing beauties available served in tasting flights of three or individually. The first vintage of Unsworth Vineyards Rosé will be showcased in mid July. Chef Bradford has even designed a tasting plate with flavours perfectly balanced to dance alongside the Rosé in your mouth. If you’re lucky enough to have an Amuse gift certificate tucked away it might be the perfect time to come on by. The property is looking beautiful, the main dining room now over looks a pond complete with a four tiered waterfall. The Romans knew all about Rosé, they started making it thousands of years ago in Provence. Thankfully it’s only taken me fifteen years to discover the joys of a little skin contact.

anny eats and drinks regularly and is the head server at Amusé.

Interested in contributing to the Valley Voice? E-mail us at editor@cowichanvalleyvoice.com

Believe in Our Community’s Special Nature I BELIEVE

By Nicolette

I believe humans are alchemists. We are here to transform things. To make the invisible visible. To birth new thoughts from old ones. To join together for the higher cause and, in so doing, manifest visions into reality.

Please help pay for Sansum Point Park

Our education systems need to school the “will” – as well as the mind. We need the tools to do the work we came here to do. We have been put here on this planet with a task but it’s like the fairy tales, there are many spells to be broken and princesses to save before we find our kingdom. Saving the princess, finding the prince, earning the kingdom – it’s all archetypal metaphor for finding our true selves, our higher purpose. And that’s why we are here.

LET’S LIVE OUR BELIEFS

No one said it would be easy. To be all put out about the state of the world and not do something about it is like being the ogre in the forest who is too thick headed to know that he has the keys to the kingdom right in his pocket. One key to our kingdom lies in Sansum Point. The thing that matters most is not what we profess to believe, but how we actually live. Let’s believe in the power of collaboration and transformation.

I believe in nature’s magic To stir the sleeping spirit, to deliver the kiss of truth Let us wake up to our calling To steward our land, to save our youth

nt s!

TLC’s Be The Change 6

Nicolette Genier, an optimistic advocate for community building and organic agriculture.

Valley Voice Magazine -Your Monthly Guide to Living in the Cowichan Valley at the Community Farm Store

Community Calendar

July 2012

Throughout July

Joseph & the Amazing Technicolor Dreamcoat Chemainus Theatre Festival 1800 565 7738

10 9:30am

Wild Food Walk Menu from the Woods Ingeborg Woodsworth

Throughout July

39 Days of July - Duncan Summer Festival FREE MUSIC Various Locations See cowichanfestival.com for schedule

11 6pm

Ed Peekeekoot – Folk / acoustic guitar virtuoso Charles Hoey Park, Duncan Summer Festival

1 11:30am - 3:30pm

Chemainus Canada Day Family Festival w/ Petting Zoo and Pony Rides Waterwheel Park, Chemainus

12 7pm

Well Owners Workshop FREE CVRD Board Room, 175 Ingram St, Duncan 250-746-2641

1 Noon 6pm

Cowichan Intercultural Society Canada Day Celebration Duncan Community Lodge 2244 Moose Road

13 5:30pm start

Duncan Summer Festival Children’s Parade Starts at the corner of Kenneth and Jubilee

till 22

Madhats & Teapots Margit Nellemann Studio 8350 Richards Trail, North Cowichan www.teafarm.ca

14 & 15

2 Day Chemainus Bluegrass Extravaganza Waterwheel Park, Chemainus cvcas.com

1 - 28

All about Birds, paintings by Eva Trinczek Imagine That! 251 Craig St, Duncan

15 9:30am

Bluegrass Brunch $15 Limited Tickets Chemainus Legion Hall, Chemainus

3- 28

Nixie Barton and Grant Leier, painting and collage Imagine That! 251 Craig St, Duncan

Eco Tour to Botanical Beach & Big Trees (all inclusive) Honeymoon Bay Lodge & Retreat, (250) 749-4252 $195

3 7pm

Music in the Park - Bluegrass Fever Waterwheel Park,Chemainus cvcas.com

10th Annual Salt Spring Lavender Festival $5 Entry Sacred Mountain 401 Musgrave Rd Salt Spring Island

4,11,18,25 7 -10pm

Wednesday Night Walkabout - Music, Art and Specials Duncan Summer Festival - Various Downtown Locations

15 9:30am 12:30pm

Chakra Yoga Workshop @ Rivendell Yurt To register Contact 250-748-2089/sdbartram@gmail.com

5 9:30am

Wild Food Walk Ancient Plants with Roger Foucher Kinsmen Park, To register call CGC 250 748 8506

15 7pm8:30pm

Sacred Chant Circle @ Rivendell Yurt To register Contact 250-748-2089/sdbartram@gmail.com

6 7-9pm

CIS Community Dance Night FREE Kids Welcome! For more info call 250 748 3112

17 7pm

Music in the Park - Bopoma Marimba Uplifting African Music Waterwheel Park,Chemainus, cvcas.com

6,13,20,27 5-9pm

ArtBeat - ArtWalk and Street Party Every Friday Willow Street, Chemainus

17 7-8:30pm

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

6 1 - 4pm

Medicine Wheel 4 Elements Workshop $30 Call 250-748-6802 /TakeTheNaturalPath@gmail.com

18 9:30am

CGC Wild Tea Walk with Jay Rastogi Wildwood To register call CGC 250 748 8506

Cowichan Station Hub Art Auction - LAST DAY TO BID Visit to bid http://cowichanstation.org

20 - 22 All Day

Islands Folk Festival Providence Farm, Duncan www.folkfest.bc.ca

7,14,21,28 10am -2pm

Honeymoon Bay Outdoor Market Coffee Mill Site, Honeymoon Bay 250-749-7233

21 - 23

12th Buddha In the Park – Three Day Retreat # 4 Johnny Bear Rd, Duncan 250710 7594

O.U.R Ecovillage Guided Public Tours 7 & 21 10am - noon 1565 Baldy Mtn. Road, Shawnigan Lake 250-743-3067

22 2pm

100 Voices Choir Sings at CGC Intercultural Day City Square Stage, Duncan Summer Festival

7 11- 4pm

Hand Crafted Clothing Sale Ali Bertin, Hilary Else, Gayle McIvor Upstairs @ Alderlea Farm Cafe, Glenora

22 5pm

Pamela Tessman Jazz Vocalist / Merridale Pizza Night Merridale 1230 merridale Rd Reservations 250 746-7621

7 7pm

Songwriter’s Open Mic Willow Street Cafe, Chemainus

24 7pm

Ladysmith Camera Club “Improve Your Landscape Photos”Hardwick Hall, High Street, 3rd Ave, Ladysmith$5

7 Tues - Sun 12-4pm

Proud Traditional/West Coast Living Ladysmith Waterfront Gallery 610 Oyster Bay Drive

24 10 am

CGC Medicinal Walk with Sheila Wray Herb Wise Farm , To register call CGC 250 748 8506

7 8am - 3pm

Giant Market Day Chemainus, chemainus.bc.ca

25 Noon

It’s Yours! - Take It! International Free Art Giveaway Charles Hoey Park, Duncan Summer Festival

7-9 9am -4pm

Herbal Intensive with Master Herbalist Lorene Benoit, MHH Call 250-748-6802 /TakeTheNaturalPath@gmail.com

26 5:30pm or 7pm

Taste of the South Barbeque Buffet $18 Honeymoon Bay Lodge & Retreat, 250 749-4252

8 3- 6pm

Mad Tea Party $10 please call to reserve tickets 8350 Richards Trail, North Cowichan www.teafarm.ca

CWBS Wooden Boat Festival Cowichan Bay Maritime Center, Cowichan Bay Waterfront

8 11am - 4pm

Duncan Summer Festival Children’s Day! Charles Hoey Park, Duncan Summer Festival

28 10am 4pm

Damali Lavender Festival Damali Lavender 3500 Telegraph Rd, Cobble Hill

8 2pm

Keating Farm Estate Guided Tour 5250 Miller Road Glenora 250-737-1401 $7 Donation

28 10am - 5pm

Cowichan Valley Lavender Labyrinth & Art Festival 2349 Inverarity Road, North Cowichan 250 701-2885

8 11am - 5pm

Bamberton Celebrates 100 Years For info 250 743-9196 1451 Trowsse Rd. www.bambertonhistoricalsociety.org

Ongoing

Year-round studio tour of 14 artisans www.CowichanValleyArtisans.com

9 7pm

Burnt – Reggae / Ska / Soul Charles Hoey Park, Duncan Summer Festival

8am - 8pm

Mayo Creek Gardens To register call CGC 250 748 8506

Struct with L bones Dunca 250743

For event listings please send: Date, Time, Event Title and Contact info to: events@cowichanvalleyvoice.com by the 15th of each month.

THE ORGANIC

FOODIE

We All Scream for Ice Cream!

Handmade Ice Cream at Organic Fair Image Kent Goodwin

ce cream is pure nostalgia. The mere mention of it causes people of all ages to grin. So many happy summer memories are infused into this sweet treat. I feel lucky that I get to be a part of this joyful food experience. I can thank my mother for this. My maternal grandmother’s family emigrated from Sweden to BC’s interior and had a dairy farm with big brown-eyed jersey cows. They made hand-churned ice cream with milk, cream, eggs and sugar. I grew up with my mother making this ice cream, though we did have

an incredibly noisy motor on our ice-cream maker. Every year my mother came to our elementary school, right before summer break to make this frozen bliss for the students. Fast forward 25 years (that’s how long I’ve been making ice cream). Now on our little farm we sell delicious ice cream made with these same simple ingredients. There are a few differences though: The eggs used from our heritagebreed chickens that are not medicated, are free range and fed certified-organic soy-free

Valley Voice Magazine -Your Monthly Guide to Living in the Cowichan Valley

feed. We use certified organic milk and cream from Avalon Dairy. We use organic fairtrade sugar we import directly from Costa Rica. We also use an amazing gelato machine from Italy, which makes incredibly smooth ice cream that is not pumped full of air. Our peppermint ice cream is flavoured with a blend of fresh picked-mint we grow, and the light-green colour comes from the natural chlorophyll in the crushed leaves. The rhubarb, cherries, lavender and some of the berries all come from our farm. I’m excited to do a cucumber sorbet this summer, and in this month’s recipe for Carrot Cardamom Pistachio

Frozen Yogurt, we use our carrots. I’m particularily proud of our dark-chocolate ice cream that has raw cocoa powder loaded with antioxidants and a ridiculous amount of melted organic fair-trade dark chocolate. We also do a raw agavesweetened dairy-free darkchocolate sorbet. I believe people can taste the love in every scoop. We hope our two girls will one day be the fourth generation of ice cream crafters in our family. Marisa Goodwin co-owns Organic Fair and is immersed in food,farm and family. www.organicfair.com

Carrot Cardamom Pistachio Frozen Yogurt Marisa Goodwin, Organic Fair

Active prep time: 20mins Chill time: 2-3 hours Makes 12 servings Special tools: Ice pop mold or a muffin tin lined with plastic wrap, double boiler or a metal bowl atop a pot

Ingredients Steamed Carrot, pureed Plain organic yogurt 3.5% MF Heavy Cream Egg Yolks, room temperature Cane sugar Lemon juice Orange zest Green Cardamom powder Sea salt Pistachios- smashed

Quantity ½ cup ¾ cup ¾ cup 4 large ½ cup 2 tsp ½ tsp ½ -1 tsp ¼ tsp 1 Tbsp

Method 1. In a double boiler over med heat combine the egg yolks, sugar, salt, lemon juice and orange zest. 2. Whisk this mixture till it thickens, turns light yellow and you see whisk marks. 3. Add in the carrot puree and continue to whisk for approximately 5 mins until the mixture thickens again. 4. Chill this mixture covered in the fridge for about 30 minutes. 5. When the carrot mixture is cooled, whisk in the yogurt, cardamom and pistachio till smooth. 6. Whip the heavy cream to stiff peaks and fold gently but thoroughly with carrot yogurt mixture. 7. Pour this into molds or a muffin tin lined with plastic wrap. 8. Freeze for 2-3 hours till firm.

Interested in contributing to the Valley Voice? E-mail us at editor@cowichanvalleyvoice.com

Islands Folk Fest • July 20, 21 and 22

s summer rounds into full bloom the Valley becomes abuzz with hustle and bustle. This year that buzz finds its crescendo in late July with the Islands Folk Festival! Hosted annually by the Cowichan Folk Guild, a passionate group of music lovers and volunteers dedicated to producing this incredible three day event. Providence Farm is transformed into a utopic never-never land (not that it is ever far off) where festival goers of all ages flock to enjoy the warm vibe.

the Warmland. Marquee performers scheduled for this year are: Juno Award winner Stephen Fearing, top European Festival band Shooglenifty, Two time Juno award winning folk star Valdy and multi award winning high energy children’s group, The Kerplunks. Local, national and international acts -Folk Fest brings you the best with musical acts for everyone. A unique venue to check out at the festival is the chapel stage where nuns that once ran the farm used to gather themselves for music and worship. There is often a line up of people waiting to hear the love-infused wooden walls of the Chapel resonate with pure auditory joy.

Folk music as a genre is somewhat ambiguous, and after watching a weekend line-up at this festival, what “Folk” music specifically is, becomes no more clear. The common denominators that seem to encompass this musical scene could be summed up as energetic, positive, and dare I say, wholesome. The Island’s Folk Festival is about The multitude of people enjoying so much more than just the SIX themselves on the dance floor really different stages of music, performer led speaks the diversity of this itfestival. Cooking salmon on atocedar plank imbues with a Itsweetworkshops, smokinessspontaneous open jams, the is not uncommon to see acombines baby-wearingthat is not overpowering. This recipe the traditional commaderie of campers, the incredible technique withmother a Scandinavian toaseasoning. is also shaking itapproach like you do Polaroid It food selection, the exclusive firing up excellent eaten cold. When you to are buying thehaired cedar forofthe picture, while next her, a silver the plank James Barber woodburning pizza make sure it iscouple untreated. get down like it’s 1969! Actually, oven, the specially constructed Childrens *BBQ Salmon cedar planks available at Cowichan you can count on seeing this scene Bay in Seafoods. activity and play area, the marketplace the Saturday night “boogie pit”. For 28 offering a wide range of dazzling years, the Cowichan Folk Guild have trinkets, stylish clothing and hand made provided a wide assortment of top talent musical instruments... it also has a from all over the world right here in magical feeling of community to it that is LIVE CRAB • FRESH FISH • LOCAL SPOT PRAWNS AND MORE!

Skagway: Local Bluegrass Duo Skagway never cease to entertain! Photo Ryan Hollett

hard to explain unless experienced. Testifying to the community spirit of the festival are the droves of volunteers that make this a success year after year. My wife and I have volunteered numerous times over the years. We enjoy the festival that much more knowing we were a part of the team that made the whole show click. Whether born and bred here in the Valley or just floating through on the breeze, a summer in the Cowichan is not complete without a visit to the Islands Folk Fest. For further info on this years performers, buy tickets or see about becoming a volunteer, please visit www.folkfest.bc.ca Ryan Hollett lives in Chemainus and teaches guitar in the Valley. ryan.hollett@yahoo.ca

Summer Hours Open 7 Days a Week 10 am to 5:30pm

Delicious Japanese BBQ Salmon Recipe

It’s Sockeye Salmon season in Cowichan Bay! Marinade Preparation and Method 1. Melt butter in saucepan. 2. Add 1/2 cup of good quality shoyu (Japanese term for soya sauce), a clove of minced garlic and a 1/2 cup of freshly chopped parsley. 3. Simmer for 5 minutes, then turn off heat and let cool for a few minutes.

Amount

Ingredients

Wild Sockeye Half side of one fish Butter 1/2 Cup Good Quality Shoyu 1/2 Cup Garlic, minced 1 Clove Fresh Parsley, chopped 1/2 Cup Vegetable Oil for brushing grill

4. Place raw salmon in a glass dish. 5. Pour marinade over one side of salmon and let sit for 20 - 30 minutes. * You may set aside reserve some of the marinade for the other side of the salmon when cooking, but it is not necessary for flavour. 6. Preheat grill to medium high. Lightly oil grill. 7. Place salmon on preheated grill and discard marinade. Grill for 6-8 minutes on each side or until fish flakes easily with fork.

Cowichan Bay Seafoods

1751 Cowichan Bay Rd, Cowichan Bay 250-748-0020 E-mail: info@cowichanbayseafood.com

Valley Voice Magazine -Your Monthly Guide to Living in the Cowichan Valley

Cowichan EATING Firing Up The James Barber Oven at Providence Farm

ames Barber was a good friend, the kind you could count on for generosity, wit and truly great conversation. We felt a deep loss when he passed away. His impact on the Valley was as vast as his personality and one of his favourite causes Chef Bill Jones of Deerholme Farm preparing was Providence delicious pizzas for cooking in the James Barber Farm. In 2010 we Oven. hosted the Canadian Chefs Congress at the farm; a gathering of over 500 chefs who came to talk about oceans, farmers and the state of restaurant food in Canada. We decided it was a great opportunity to build something for the farm and leave a legacy for James. Our original plan was to build a wood burning oven on site. When word got out, Carol Spence responded with an offer of an oven James helped to build in Parksville. A flatbed truck and several cranes later, Matt Horn (Cowichan Pasta) and myself moved the 27,000 lb oven to its new home at Providence Farm. The oven is a large wood fired baking chamber and was built by legendary oven builder Alan Scott, author of The Bread Builders. Wood burning ovens have a large curved roof fire chamber with the chimney at the front of the oven. This allows the heat to curl and reach temperatures up to 900 F before exiting the oven. These kinds of temperatures are great for cooking pizza. When the oven is that hot we can cook a pizza in about 4 minutes. This gives the crispy base and bubbling crust that is esteemed in Neapolitan style pizza. You just can’t get this effect with any other type of oven. The trick is to get the oven hot by building up a good bank of coals. The best wood locally is hardwood like maple, apple and cherry. Alder and Douglas Fir are also good woods to use. You have to clean the base of the oven with a brush to get rid of most of the ash as the pizza cooks right on the floor of the oven. After sliding the pizza into the hot oven, you rotate the disk every couple of minutes. This allows the intense heat of the back oven to evenly cook the pizza. When properly cooked wood oven pizza is truly magnificent, even simple toppings like tomato sauce and cheese are transformed into works of art – worthy of the Urban Peasant himself. The oven will be fired up this July 20-22 during the Island’s Folk Festival. We will be gearing up production to produce handcrafted works Bill Jones is an of art for concert goers. You will enjoy a truly author, chef and food consultant who can unique and authentic pizza eating experience. be found at Deerholme.com

Wild Food

Walk

A Cowichan Valley Bolete Mushroom

ave you ever wanted to cook with local wild foods, but found yourself unsure as to which plants are safe to consume, or you’re left wondering how to go about foraging for your own wild ingredients? If so, the Cowichan Green Community (CGC) invites you to start your journey in exploring the potentials and benefits of wild plants through our series of Wild Food Walks. From dandelion fritters, sweet pickled purslane stems, to sun tea steeped with wild mint and licorice, wild foods will not only add a diversity of tastes and textures to your dining experiences, but they can provide the body with essential nutrients lacking in imported or out-of season produce.

Wild Food Walks July Schedule: Thursday, July 5th, Kinsmen Park – Common Ancient Plants with Roger Foucher, Tuesday, July 10th, Mayo Creek Gardens – Menu from the Woods with Ingeborg Woodsworth Wednesday, July 18th, Wildwood, Wild Tea Walk with Jay Rastogi, Tuesday, July 24th, Herb Wise Farm – Medicinal Walk with Shelia Wray*

Running from July to October, this series of walks brings important attention to the Cowichan Region’s bounty of wild edibles and their ecosystems. Facilitated by local wild food experts, including Sheila Wray of Hedgewych Wylds and naturalist Genevieve Singleton, the walks will offer opportunities to learn foraging techniques, traditional plant uses, medicinal plant uses,

and wild food preparations. This is the third year CGC has offered this program to the community and we are happy to announce that we have been able to expand upon this year’s line-up. Featuring seven guides and nine individual walks, this season’s Wild Food Walks are guaranteed to offer diverse opportunities for anyone seeking to gain confidence in foraging for wild foods. The cost is $20 per walk; $15 for members of CGC. Signup for three or more walks and receive a 10% discount. Most walks depart at 9:30am and run two to three hours depending on the number of people and the level of interest. To register, please call CGC at 250-748-8506. For more information and the full 2012 Wild Food Walk schedule please visit www. cowichangreencommunity. org.

Valley Voice Magazine -Your Monthly Guide to Living in the Cowichan Valley

Vanessa Goodall, CGC Food Security Co-ordinator

Specializing in Family, General and Cosmetic Dentistry

Welcomes Dr. Dustin George UBC Dental School graduate, Dr. Dustin George participated in community clinics, local dental missions, and social event planning. “Here, dentistry made me a citizen of the world-- I travelled to Japan on a student exchange and to Cambodia, where I worked as a dentist at a hospital for sick children.

Fresh Organic Artisan Pastas & Pasta Sauces JULY COOKING CLASSES July 23 SUMMER’S BOUNTY – CREATIVE WAYS WITH SEASONAL VEGETABLES - Deborah Fahlman of Kilrenny Farm $45 + tax July 31 THE ODD BITS Don Genova $65 + tax Fresh organic artisan pasta locally made in Cowichan Bay. We use only organic grains in our pasta. Classic Italian pasta sauces : Bolognase, Puttanesca, Amatriciana & Marinara (made at the farm) Available at Kilrenny Farm Thurs to Sun 11 am to 6 pm Check kilrennyfarm.com for details & call 250-743-9019 to register.

I spent the ﬁrst year of my career as a dentist in Whitehorse. This “northern exposure” was the opportunity a new dentist thirsts for-- it afforded me the opportunity to work in a private practice with a broad clinical scope, provide care for children in the operating room, and to participate as a dentist in the Yukon Children’s Dental Program. It’s with great pleasure that I’m joining Dr. Cornell’s team to service the Cobble Hill Community!

The ﬁrst step towards a beautiful, healthy smile is to schedule an appointment. 55-1400 Cowichan Bay Road Valley View Centre, Cobble Hill, BC

Phone: (250) 743-6698 Email: reception@cobblehilldental.com

www.rainwaterconnection.com

BOB BURGESS Tel 250.246.2155 Gulf Islands Rainwater Connection Ltd. Thetis Island, BC Email: bob@

rainwaterconnection.com

ACCEPTING NEW PATIENTS! Open Monday, Tuesday, Wednesday 7:30am - 5pm Thursday 8am - 7pm, Friday 9am - 6pm and Saturdays 9am - 4pm

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“It’s fresher from here” Grilled Chicken with BC Peaches (or Nectarine) and Berry Salsa This is a great summer time recipe when peaches and nectarines are amazing. Ingredients

Island Farmhouse Chicken Breasts Olive Oil Juice of one lemon Salt and Pepper

Amount

6 boneless, skinless

2 Tablespoons

Salsa BC peaches or nectarines 3 BC blueberries 1/2 Cup (or cherries pitted and halved) Jalepeno pepper 1 Red Onion 1 small Cilantro 1/2 Cup Sugar 1 Tablespoon Salt 1 Teaspoon Juice of one lime (depending on the lime you might need two)

Dale Nigel Goble Paints Duncan Local artist and designer Dale Nigel Goble has created a poster based on a new painting for visitors and locals to celebrate the Duncan area. DNG’s past client commissions include the United Nations, Fisheries Canada and actor Sidney Poitier. 100 signed limited edition posters are available now at Embellish on Kenneth St for just $100 unframed or $200 framed. For a look at more of this very talented artist’s works visit maplemountaineditions.com. This is one artist to keep watch on.

Method

Peel and roughly chop peaches (about thumb tip size pieces) place in large bowl. Add chopped red onion, finely minced jalapeno (seeds removed) and chopped cilantro, lime juice sugar and salt. Mix well and add berries and set aside. (You can make this a couple of hours ahead of time if you like) Preheat BBQ. Toss chicken, oil, lemon and salt and pepper in a bowl. Grill chicken until cooked through and arrange on a serving platter in a ﬂower pattern and spoon salsa in the centre. Garnish with cilantro. Cook in a very hot oven 450F or BBQ for the first 15mins and then reduce heat to 350F until juices run clear. 1615 Koksilah Road Cowichan Bay BC 250-746-6163 • www.farmhousepoultry.ca Chicken available from Country Grocer, 49th Parallel, Duncan Butcher, Chemainus Foods, Crofton Foods and Thrifty Foods

Valley Voice Magazine -Your Monthly Guide to Living in the Cowichan Valley

Transient Orca Whale Encounters

What’s Going On In

Cowichan Bay? Wooden Boat Festival July 28 • Maritime Center

Lunge feeding Humpback Georgia Strait Photo Simon Pidcock

very year more and more humpback whales are arriving and staying in the waters around southern Vancouver Island. The humpbacks have been arriving earlier and staying longer into the fall for the past 5 years. The north Pacific population is making an impressive comeback. Commercial whalers heavily targeted these gentle leviathans until 1966. It is estimated that the population was reduced to approximately 1400. This population has rebounded and is now estimated at 25 000. In 1907 a whaling station was set up at Piper’s Lagoon just north of Nanaimo. At that time it was known as Pages Lagoon. The Pacific Whaling Company preyed on a small population of 97 humpback whales that wintered in the Georgia Strait. By 1908 the last humpback in the population was beached and the station was shut down. Now we see Humpbacks from April to November each year. They are in our waters to feed and will consume over two tons of food per day. Humpbacks are baleen whales, which means they filter their food through baleen plates.

They feed on krill and small schooling fish such as herring and capelin. Most of the humpbacks in our area migrate over 3000 miles to forage in our waters during the summer and fall months. Primarily they are migrating between Hawaii and southern Vancouver Island although we do have a few humpbacks that travel to South America for the winter. It takes roughly 36 days for the humpbacks to make their migration from Hawaii to BC. From the time that the humpbacks leave our waters in the late fall until their return the next spring researchers believe that the humpbacks fast and rely only on their blubber. Recently our whale watching guests have been treated to a humpback whale lunge feeding in the Georgia Strait. This particular humpback has been viewed lunge feeding almost non-stop in the area for a week and has been putting on a great show!

Simon Pidcock is Owner/Operator of Ocean Ecoventures in Cowichan Bay www.OceanEcoVentures.com

Interested in contributing to the Valley Voice? E-mail us at editor@cowichanvalleyvoice.com

ohn Wilcox passed suddenly on Friday June 15, 2012. Johnny Canuck as he was affectionately known was an iconoclast, patriot and advocate of everyone’s right to farm. John was one of the first farmer’s I got to know on Salt Spring and his partner Sue’s farm was one of the first ones I visited when I arrived on the Island 5 years ago. Much will be written about John’s political views, his advocacy work and his passion for the land. I will let others who knew John before I did speak to these parts of John’s life. I would simply like to thank John for many wonderful visits with beautiful produce and the knowledge that what I was putting on a plate was grown by a man who truly loved the land, his country and his community. Much love also goes out to John’s partner Sue Earle, who will no doubt ensure John’s legacy of sustainable agriculture will endure on Salt Spring Island. We will miss you John the world is desperately in need of more people like you. To quote Wendell Berry “From the union of power and money, from the union of power and secrecy, from the union of government and science, from the union of government and art, from the union of science and money, John Wilcox selling at the Fall Fair, SSI from the union of ambition and ignorance, from the union of genius and war, from the union of outer space and inner vacuity, the Mad Farmer walks quietly away.”

Remembering John Wilcox

Bruce Wood, Bruce’s Kitchen, SSI

Sue (Bootsie) and John

Above, John and his beloved truck. Left, Photo taken by Linda MathesonReynolds so no one would be confused anymore. 16

TO ALL THE FRIENDS OF JOHN WILCOX If there were just 3 things John would want usto do to remember him. 1. Enjoy people, even the ones that have different views

than you. John had a few of those in opposition because he was usually swimming against the current, battling big money or governments, trying to make the world a better place for farmers. 2. Eat good food. Grow it if you have a chance. 3. Never EVER, EVER give up on anything that you believe in.

Harry Burton, Apple Lucious Organic Orchard, SSI

Valley Voice Magazine -Your Monthly Guide to Living in the Cowichan Valley

The only farmer left at the Fall Fair, not because he made more money, but because he believed that it was the thing to do and he was trying to lead by example.

When NAFTA was proposed, John became a big anti-NAFTA advocate, and one of his actions was to drive across Canada, as CAPTAIN CANADA, in his old truck (appropriately painted), rallying opposition as he went.

craft

Hopefully, “June-uary”, with its cool temperatures and rain, will give way to a summer-sunny July. But to a delayed spring and summer, there is a silver lining: the strawberry season is Soup served at Alderlea Cafe delayed (and hopefully Photo Frank Wall extended, too). For oh-sogood strawberries, a trip to Alderlea Farm and Cafe at 3390 Glenora Road is a great idea. All the produce, strawberries included, is organic; in fact Biodynamic. Biodynamic farming takes organic production methods to another level with the use of farm made, wholesome fertilizers and sprays. The vegetables (and the strawberries!) have a much improved taste and quality. The Cafe prepares and serves tasty fare from Alderlea at a very reasonable cost, and after you enjoy the offerings, inquire about “Community Supported Agriculture” to obtain your own farm-fresh produce to take home with you (scheduled every week, if you like). And don’t forget your strawberries! With strawberries in hand, head down Koksilah Road, cross the highway, and visit Venturi-Schulze Vineyards at 4235 Vineyard Road, for a bottle of their Ancient Method Balsamic Vinegar. The strawberries and the vinegar will together make a treat that is really-really out-of-this-world yummy! Yu-u-mmy! The production of the balsamic vinegar is bogglingly complicated, but Venturi-Schulze’s integrity and unwavering commitment to sustainability and organic production assures a quality product that is second to none. And that includes their wines! At the tasting room you will love all their wines and their Verjus (a traditional lemon substitute) to boot. A warm day in July, with outstanding strawberries, balsamic vinegar, wine and a friend or two is a day to remember indeed!

Both Venturi-Schulze Vineyards and Alderlea Farm and Cafe are, by dint of their integrity and high quality products, members of the Cowichan Valley Artisans year-round studio tour. For the studios’ hours of operation and all the details, pick up a tour brochure at Experience Cycling, 482 Trans Canada Highway or at the Duncan Garage Organic Cafe & Bakery, 101 – 330 Duncan Street in Duncan.

Before

on the farm

with SOL FARM

Drying Garlic

s many of you may know, SOL Farm was recently the victim of a greenhouse fire. Shocking and frightening as that was, the loss was somewhat mitigated by the quick response from our good friends and this community.

After

With our seedling greenhouse burned to the ground, along with 2000 plants ready to be set out in the lower field, countless tools, farming records, and seemingly endless personal effects, our immediate reaction was resignation that we had lost our season, that it was too late to start over with this yearâ€™s planting schedule and really, with all the challenges presented to farmers, this was the last straw.

The feeling of awful loss was replaced by a sense that we were not alone, that the people in our community wanted us overcome this obstacle and were willing to do what they could to help. This was, after all, just a loss, not a tragedy. We are touched and grateful to be part of this community, and especially want to thank the Cowichan Green Community and the Glenora Farm Community for their generous donation of seedlings.

As word got out about our loss, we received offers of help from friends who took ferries, buses and time away from their own work to assist us with the cleanup of the debris left behind from the fire, shopping for the essential basic tools allowing us to get back to work, and the all-important sweat equity to plant hundreds of seedlings donated by the Cowichan community.

We were offered plants from several farmers from as far away as the Comox Valley Farmers Market, after their market manager learned of our plight and sent out a bulletin to their members, asking for donations. This experience has been an important reminder that the farm community does not operate under the business model of everyone for themselves, but extols the old-fashioned values of lending a hand to

help others succeed. We are not alone, and by working in partnership we create a sustainable community where all benefit. We look forward to seeing you at the market this summer, and thanks to friends and the generosity of this community, we expect to have a wonderful selection of fabulous, organically grown produce!

Honeymoon Bay Every Saturday Outdoor Market Every Saturday 10am - 2pm May - Thanksgiving

For market info call Bob at 250-749-7233 or 250-510-1113

Ramona Froehle-Schacht and Stephen Schacht, of SOL Farm â€“ SMALL, ORGANIC, LOCAL-, raise vegetables, berries and chickens with their son Jeremy and his girlfriend Jessi. www.solfarm.ca

Look for in-season local produce, plants, flowers, sewing, baking, preserves, handmade soaps, bodycare, arts & crafts and more! Follow the signs to the Coffee Mill Cafe in Honeymoon Bay.

Valley Voice Magazine -Your Monthly Guide to Living in the Cowichan Valley

Farm and arden Pages

Gardening is for the Birds

all started with the Ioft innocent purchase of a flat strawberries and the vision of bright red jars of jam lining the pantry shelf.

To plant the strawberries, lumber needed to be purchased for the construction of a raised bed. Soil and manure were loaded into the bed and copper wire, which repels slugs, was stapled to the outside of the bed. The plants were planted and watered. Four weeks later, the strawberries were thriving. They had taken root and were producing flowers and fruit. Then one sad day in May, the gate was left open and a deer was found in the garden. She had eaten all the flowers and most of the leaves off the new strawberry plants. Two weeks later they had miraculously recovered. New leaves and flowers were producing a second batch of strawberries. Just as the berries begun to turn green to pink, the Robins moved in and took a bite out of each one. A clever cage was designed from some scrap fencing and a sigh of relief was experienced for a day. Then it was discovered that the size of the holes in the fencing kept the Robins out, but were a perfect fit for the garden resident chickadee who could now feed her 4 youngins without any

ARE YOU PREPARED FOR THE INEVITABLE? DO YOU HAVE?

competition. Bird netting was purchased and fastened over the clever cage. The next day, the aroma from the sun warmed, once bitten strawberries attracted the sow bugs, who were now burrowing their heads into the sweet flesh of this delicious fruit. That was when I realized, “Growing food is for the birds, the deer, the rabbits, the slugs and even the pill bugs. “ If you grow your own food, give yourself a pat on the back. Gardeners are some of the most creative people I’ve met. They meet adversity with opportunity and they never give UP!

• • • • •

A Will An Enduring Power of Attorney A Medical Representation Agreement An Advance Medical Directive (Living Will) An Estate Plan (that deals with jointly owned property, corporate property, trusts, registered accounts, life insurance, income tax and probate fees)

CALL US TO DISCUSS YOUR PLANS

201 – 64 Station Street Duncan BC V9L 1M4

Tel: 250-748-6633 Fax: 250-748-1496

R. Brian McDaniel – bmcd@mcdanieltillie.com Julia E. Henderson – jeh@mcdanieltillie.com www.mcdanieltillie.com

“If you like to Eat – GROW FOOD” Joy Story, helps people grow food! Check out her on-line Magazine and Newsletter growfoodnetwork.com

Interested in contributing to the Valley Voice? E-mail us at editor@cowichanvalleyvoice.com

Kingfisher Painting Client

It’s a Smooth Finish with Professionals

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www.extractigator.com

Available at many fine local retailers.

AhZenya the newest salon and spa in the Cowichan Valley

Join us for a relaxing ZEN EXPERIENCE

• Full Hair and Esthetics Services • Joico hair color and products • Natural Sugaring Hair Removal • Onsite Gel Nail Artist

s painting season is now in full gear, home and business owners looking for repaints should consider the importance of hiring professionals to do the job. A professional paint job not only beautifies the environment you live in, it is a sound and if properly done, long-lasting investment to your home. With many high school and college kids now out on the prowl our question to readers is “ Would you hire a student to do your plumbing or electricity?” Like plumbing and electricity, painting is a professional trade. We ask professional painter David P Smith about what Kingfisher Painting Services offers that makes the difference. “There is a great deal of knowledge we have relating to substrates, preparation and application techniques, product knowledge, recognizing causes of paint failure... We respect the trade and approach it as a profession. You hire a professional painter because you trust them to work safely, to be on your property and in your homes and to respect you and your property. In our company we offer a 3 year warranty and even when the summer ends we will still be around and able to respond to you in 6 months or for as long as 3 years later if you have any issues. We carry $2,000,000 General Liability Insurance for all of our jobs

and offer full WCB coverage for all of our employees. Kingfisher Painting Services was founded on three philosophies.To produce quality work; to offer superior customer service and to provide a positive and constructive environment for their employees. “We believe that good companies are built around good people, and that happy people are productive people.” says David, and their and smiling employees and customers can attest to that. Exterior washing, substrate preparation, colour consulting and applying paint samples are just part of the pre-painting services they offer. “Washing is a critical step as if you paint over dirt or mildew, your paint is adhering to the dirt or mildew, not the substrate, and will eventually fail. Mildew can continue to grow under a painted surface eventually forcing the paint off.” Their year round staff of painters has over 80 years of combined professional experience in every facet of the painting industry. They’ve worked on condos, strata complexes, custom homes and commercial refits specializing in repaints and heritage restorations. Ready to paint? Visit www. kingfisherpainting.com for info about estimates and services.

Valley Voice Magazine -Your Monthly Guide to Living in the Cowichan Valley

Natural Fireplace

Helpful Garden

eople often ask what perennials are drought tolerant, bloom for long periods, smell nice and are deer proof. A tough order to fill. The answer? Herbs! You cook with them and anoint your body with their precious and fragrant oils. Why not grow them too?

Natural Building

ost people spend the majority of their time indoors and indoor air pollution has been cited as a major cause of modern health problems. For too long now, the finishing materials in our homes have been chosen with no regard for human health. Offgassing from glues, paint and synthetic carpets for example. The concerns about water damage & mold in our damp climate have led to the practice of sealing everything up inside a continuous plastic vapour barrier, which leads to problems with ventilation and generally exacberates the health problems.

A healthier indoor environment can be attained with natural materials and intelligent design. Researchers in Northern Europe have developed a method of building walls with clay and straw which provides thermal mass and insulation, while allowing diffusion of water vapour through the wall. Known as “light clay” construction, this wall system can also be built with clay and wood chips, which are more readily available here on the coast. When finished with natural clay and lime plasters or wood siding, these walls can be very beautiful and provide a warmth and feeling

of tranquillity indoors, which needs to be experienced to fully appreciate. Another element of natural building to consider is thermal mass and radiant heating. Rammed earth partitions within the insulated shell of a home can help to regulate temperature extremes and improve indoor air quality. A centrally located contraflow masonry heater fireplace will provide radiant heat with only one fire per day. All our energy ultimately comes from the sun, so it makes sense to orient our homes with more south facing windows and wide overhangs to take advantage of the low winter sun and block some of the high summer sun. These design features, when combined with the beauty and permanence of mortise and tenon timber frame joinery can result in a healthy home which we will be proud to pass down to future generations. Keary Conwright is a natural home designer and builder living in Otter Point www.kcnaturalhomes.com

Especially useful are the three groups I will discuss here: lavender, sage and thyme. I use them extensively in my front garden and rockery which are exposed to deer traffic and dry, windy conditions during the summer. These are Mediterranean natives and don’t mind being ignored and mistreated once established. The smell of lavender on a hot summers day sooths the senses and keeps the deer at bay. There are many varieties to choose from. The largest is English lavender, which in my garden will grow to about 1.5 meters in a hot year. This is a giant; the diameter is equal to its height. The dried flowers may be used in potpourri, candies and sorbet. Spanish lavender (also called Bunny Ears lavender) is tall as well (up to a meter) though it tends to be less upright and may flop a bit. The flower differs from other lavenders in that it only shows a few petals at a time on the flower stalk and these look like rabbit ears. Others to look for are Hidcote Blue and Munstead. Hidcote is fairly compact but Munstead is the smallest variety available in our region. Munstead has a

dwarfish, mounding habit and freely self-seeds if allowed to. Not a bad thing, as self seeded volunteers are easy to move when small and can be transplanted elsewhere in the garden and given to friends. For sages, try ordinary Garden Sage, Purple sage, Golden Sage (bi-coloured yellow and green) and Tricoloured Sage (white, green and pink). All are suitable for culinary use and have great purple or bluish flowers that can be added to salads. The Golden Sage has a less conspicuous flower and may suffer from mildew in our area but is well worth trying. Both lavender and sage should be cut back hard to 6 inches as new growth begins in early spring. Leaving on last year’s growth over the winter helps the plants survive our cold and wet winter seasons. Culinary and ornamental thyme is a nice addition to a rockery and is a great lawn substitute too. Common culinary Thyme, Doone Valley, Wooly Thyme, Redstart and Golden Thyme are all available in 4-inch pots at most garden centres. They create a solid mass half a meter in diameter in just a year or two. This tough trio will bring the essence of Provence to both your garden and your kitchen!

Ajay Oppelaar is an experienced horticulturist and President of the Mill Bay Garden Club. Contact him at arkengardens@gmail.com

Smart Watering For Your Lawn

f I had to choose just one lawn maintenance practice that is consistently done wrong, it’s definitely watering. People tend to water too much or not enough- both are extremes. Here’s why. Overwatering As you know, most lawns in the Valley have been planted on hard clay or sand with gravel being a close third. When you overwater a clay lawn it becomes saturated (there’s nowhere for the water to go) drowning your grass roots. When the inevitable yellowing of the lawn occurs, confusion sets in, so people water even more hoping to bring back the green.

Overwatering a sandy lawn dilutes your soil (water runs through it) making it nutrient deficient and causing the same yellowing. The sand is unable to hold on to nutrients DIETS DON’T WORK! -– especially when it’s being repeatedly doused with water, CLINICAL HYPNOSIS DOES which is why on its own, sand is a poor medium for growing a Lush lawn. Note: Topdressing or planting a new lawn with sand only is bad advice. Use a compost rich super soil instead.

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Diets Don’t Work— The Power of the Mind Does. Lori Austein Clinical Hypnotherapist 250 743 5685 • laustein@shaw.ca

Under-watering Municipal water bans aside, many people let their lawns go in the summer, thinking that they are being environmental as they responsibly save water. What they fail to realize is that in allowing their lawns to dry out, they’re also killing an entire underground civilization. Microbes (microscopic bacteria and fungi) live and work in the soil growing, feeding and protecting your grass and

plants. When they are deprived of water they die, rendering your soil infertile. An infertile soil is a haven for weeds and disease, which are then often later treated with harsh chemicals. You may say “well I don’t use harsh chemicals” which is good, but you are still responsible for creating an unhealthy environment, which you may be tempted to fix later by over fertilizing (another no-no for the environmentally conscious). Smart Watering Here’s the good news. An average lawn only needs an inch of water a week. That’s an empty tuna can or approximately 30min of water. In the hot summer, you can increase it to 2 inches. If it rains, shut off your sprinklers. If you don’t know how, ask. Having a professional irrigation system installed is the easiest and most effective way to water smartly. In our effort to be environmental, responsible citizens, it’s important we consider the big picture.

Valley Voice Magazine -Your Monthly Guide to Living in the Cowichan Valley

FREE 15 Min Phone Consultations ress Reduction, Dependencies, Relationship, Fears, Depression and Live Smoke Free packages.

John Close owns and operates Lush Eco Lawns. “Go ahead Take off your shoes!” www.lushecolawns.com

Recycled Greenhouse

DESIGNI NG

green

Glass Garden-Recycled: Greenhouse Ideas

t’s never too late in the year to start a greenhouse. ESPECIALLY this year! Try, as we have done on many occasions, to build with recycled tempered glass panels. This provides clear and air tight structures at sometimes a fraction the cost of plastic

panels and will stand up for years as a greenhouse or simply a warm sheltered sitting area in the back yard. I also prefer the aesthetics of glass over faded plastic sheets. Start with a plan of recycling 28” or 34” x 76” patio door glass panels which can often

be found at window shops around the valley. We call it the boneyard. Even new, they may only cost about $40 each or half that for scratched or factory seconds. Build a simple frame in cedar fence posts and voila, instant summer! My own backyard is graced by a twice recycled greenhouse built from original Fairbridge School windows that were recycled in the early 70’s for a timber home built in Cobble Hill, then recycled again by yours truly when upgrading the same home 25 years later. Now that’s cradle to cradle! And the charm of mullioned windows is not lost on our heritage property. Be sure to ventilate it the simple way by contacting BC Greenhouse Supply or Lee

Valley Tools for automatic hydraulic openers to vent for overheating. Use a full sliding glass door for the entry and it could not be a simpler structure to assemble. Guaranteed no tomato blight and enjoy basil well into October or even November. Don’t forget to add a radio and even a light for long days of fun on a cloudy day. But who has those? 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.

For full design/build service, give us a call

 250.746.5372 • coulsondesign@shaw.ca • www.davidcoulsondesign.com  23



It’sLavender entrance off Telegraph Rd. Unfortunately the farm is not fully wheelchair accessible and the property is on a slope but transportation from the lower field to the upper gravel festival area is provided for people who require it.

Damali Lavenderfest July 28 10am - 4pm $5 Adults $3 Seniors $2 Children under 12 3500 Telegraph Road Cobble Hill 1 877 743-5170 www.damali.ca

Cure headaches with lavender aromatherapy.

The 5th annual Lavenderfest fundraiser for the Canadian Cancer Society is a family friendly event with plenty of opportunities for pictures of your loved ones up to their necks in lavender. There will be a scavenger hunt and games and crafts for children. Adults can try their hand at wand making or pick their own bouquet from over 25 varieties of lavender. Watch as we process a load of lavender through the 100 gallon steam distillation system to extract this wonderfully aromatic essential oil. Take a guided tour with Alison or engage in Lavender 101 with Marsha and the other two Damali partners who will relay the origins of the farm and how it got its name. Delectable lavender lunches from ‘Art To Eat’ and other lavender treats including lavender ice cream and lavender lemonade will be available. Enjoy live Marimba music in the morning and Country Bluegrass in the afternoon as you browse through the artisan displays or wander the pathways to the labyrinth. Or even just sit and enjoy a glass of wine on our licensed picnic area. Parking is in the lower field with the

Cowichan Valley Lavender Labyrinth

July 28 10am - 5pm 2349 Inverarity RoadNorth Cowichan 250-701-2885 For more details visit:

cowichanvalleylavender.com

By its very nature, lavender elicits serenity. Appreciation of the fragrant and multipurpose lavender flower will be celebrated at the Cowichan Valley Lavender Farm and Labyrinth. Join us for a sensory experience and allow the aromatic scent of lavender to waft over you as you explore all the different ways in which lavender can enhance your life. The Cowichan Valley Lavender and Arts Festival offers a family-friendly ‘U-Pic” atmosphere dedicated to all things lavender. Harvest your own or buy some dried bundles of lavender, handmade sachets, eye and neck pillows, soap and other related products. We’ll be serving tasty ‘lavender’ nibbles, tea and our signature lavender lemonade. To colour your gardens, there will be a broad selection of lavender plants for sale – twenty varieties, best suited to our climate, to select from. Learn general lavender 101 tips

Valley Voice Magazine -Your Monthly Guide to Living in the Cowichan Valley

a t A i c w d t o t t d t S

Season!

and how to distill lavender to produce essential oil. Artists will be working onsite inspired by the stunning carpet of purples, blues & whites. And while visiting don’t forget to have a stroll through the labyrinth rest on a bench while you listen to the symphony of bees that love lavender. Entry by donation, which will go to the Cowichan Valley Hospice Society.

Salt Spring Lavender Festival Sunday July 15th 10 am - 5 pm $5 Entry / Kids Free 401 Musgrave Road Salt Spring Island 250-653-2334

www.sacredmountainlavender.com

Sacred Mountain Lavender opened its gates to the public in 2003 with an “Open

House”. Ten years later, the ”Open House” has blossomed into this annual Lavender Festival, which has grown to host nearly 1000 people. We now offer an extravaganza of entertainment, craft vendors, lavender infused lunches and munchies, talks and demonstrations and a myriad other experiences for the whole family. This year’s festival has a Medieval theme. Raffi will be headlining the entertainment as well as performances by the Swanhaven Isle Medieval dancers, musical duo Synergy and country folk duo Jenn and Matt. Scheduled to speak on winter gardening is Master Gardener and Author, Linda Gilkeson PhD and Auntie Pesto’s chef Sean will talk on cooking with lavender. There will also be demonstrations on propagating lavender and how to distill essential oil from lavender. Enjoy a massage in the lavender field or a Spiritual Reading by Jane Barter. Peruse the crafts of local artisans, make lavender

wands or sit in the field. Children will enjoy the Wonderful Dress-up Trunk filled with all things purple and mauve. Tasty treats will be available in the Lavender Café, lavender lemonade, coffee, gelato and sorbetto, baking and desserts and the Lavender Bistro will be serving lunches with a hint

of lavender as seasoning, Door prizes will be awarded throughout the day and a grand prize offered on our Facebook site. A percentage of the proceeds will be donated to The Centre for Child Honouring. Image; Jena Peroi of SSI, lining up for lavender infused lunches.

10TH ANNUAL SALT SPRING LAVENDER FESTIVAL at Sacred Mountain Lavender – Sunday 15th July 10am-5pm with a Medieval theme – fun for the whole family

FEATURED PRESENTATIONS AND EVENTS Rafﬁ • Swanhaven Isle Medieval dancers • Jenn and Matt country folk duet •The music of Synergy and their feel good groves • Talks by Master Gardner Linda Gilkeson PhD • The Importance of Bees talk • Massage in the lavender ﬁeld • Spiritual readings • demonstrations of propagation and distillation of lavender essential oil • craft vendors • Yummy treats from the lavender bistro, gelato, lemonade and baking • Lunches and talks by Sean, Chef Auntie Pesto of SSI • Wand making and dress-up trunk for children and more Entry $5.00 - 12 years and under free - Door prizes

A percentage of the revenue will be donated to The Centre for Child Hounouring on SSI

Regular Farm Tours Wed – Sun 10am-5pm & visit our farm shop until 30th September 2012 401 Musgrave Road SSI (the paved part) Contact us at 250 653 2334 or at www.sacredmountainlavender.com

Unique open air gallery and auction raising excitement at The HUB at Cowichan Station Cowichan Station artist Jennifer Slofstra-Tinsley painting St. Andrew’s Church for the auction.

Artist Eva Trinczek

alling on all bird lovers. Experience bird watching with a twist. This is the theme of Eva Trinczek’s latest art exhibition showing in the large gallery window at Imagine That! from July 1st until July 28th, 2012. Birds have always been a favourite subject of Eva’s paintings. “They are a joy to observe” she says. “I can never grow tired of watching them”. You will find crows, quail, herons and hummingbirds, just to name a few. The paintings are done with acrylic paint on canvas or board and in a variety of sizes. Prices start from $50. Eva likes to use a wide colour palette and enjoys experimenting with new ideas. Being an animal lover in general, she has also painted other creatures like cats and dogs, sheep and cattle.

estled amid the last standing natural green space along Bench Road, between Koksilah Road and the TCH, is the site of the former Cowichan Station school. Now known as The HUB at Cowichan Station, few Cowichan Valley residents realize that this place has been a “hub” of community activity and programming for the last six months. Hidden behind dreary plywood are 100 year old, hand poured windows, covered since the school was closed in 2007. To raise funds to remove those unsightly boards and let the light shine through once more, the Cowichan Station Area Association is holding “Let There Be Light” – an open air gallery and auction.

Eva is a member of Imagine That! Artisans’ Designs co-operative and a selection of her work is always available at its shop at 251 Craig Street, in Duncan. Part of All About Birds series By Eva Trinczek

With support from the Cowichan Valley Arts Council and local artists, 25 pieces of original works of art now dress up the whitewashed panels. From now until July 7th, all the artwork is available for sale through a blind bid auction. While a few pieces have a reasonable starting price, most of them are unreserved. The pieces are weather-proofed with the intention that they can be mounted outside a business, in a garden, or at any place as unique as your imagination. Each piece has been donated by the artist, and nearly all were created especially for this project. Contributors include accomplished artists and hobbyists, seniors, and children. Many have a connection to the old school; all were moved by the excitement for The HUB project – a rare, community-run gathering space. The Cowichan Station Area Association invites you to visit this wonderful display of talent at The HUB (2375 Koksilah Road), or visit the virtual gallery at http://cowichanstation.org. Bid on site or by email on your favourite one-of-a-kind piece of Cowichan art, and help support this worthwhile project. All bids must be received by noon on July 7. Submitted by Madelaine MacLeod, Volunteer and Secretary of Cowichan Station Area Association

Valley Voice Magazine -Your Monthly Guide to Living in the Cowichan Valley

Rene Deerheart Deerheart Studio

4735 Cowichan Lake Road, Duncan 250-715-0207 www.deerheart.com

ot long ago Rene returned to making jewelry after spending over 20 years as a wood carver. A decade before that she was a papermaker and hand weaver. “I am constantly inspired by other artists’ work and by nature and cultures. A walk in the woods, a thrift store crawl, a bookstore browse all nourishes my creativity. I respond to an inner sense of inquiry, discovery and enjoyable discretion with techniques, materials, texture, process, composition, colour, ambiance and sometimes plain goofiness. I practice allowing this exploration to guide and answer the mutual unfoldment of awareness as metaphor and mirror. In this, my creative path and my spiritual path are reciprocally and inseparably joyful. While at University Rene learned how to cast molten silver, set stones in bezels, and solder sterling silver.

Talking Arts • Rene Deerheart

Building on this silversmith foundation, she now creates works using a variety of methods and materials. “For my chain maille pieces I work with Argentium, fine silver, and natural or coloured copper wire. To make mesh tubes for necklaces and “arm candy” I use French, Viking, and Kumihimo knitting and braiding techniques.” Adding to her impressive repertoire of techniques, Rene also sews Japanese Nishijin Obi Brocade fabrics into cloth rope necklaces and adorns them with wire, knots, semiprecious stones, one-of-a-kind pendants, or large metal clay beads. A single piece often combines many techniques.

formed, dried, then sintered in a small kiln, emerging as solid metal with essentially little further finishing necessary. For interested readers Rene will be teaching a two day workshop in the fall.” (please visit website www.deerheart.com for more details) A proud member of CVAC and the Visions Art Tour Society, Rene is also In 2007, Rene completed part of other group shows and a program certifying her Eliza Hemingway Writer’s Class events throughout the year. as a teacher of Metal Clay Th ursdays, 6pm 7:30pm using the Precious Metal Images Top Left; flame painted Duncan Clay brand. “It is called clayCowichan copper Library, lentil formed pendant. Right Everyone welcome Necklace with silver metal clay because it is malleable like Freetube bead pendant with patina putty but not to be confused Details: www.elizahemingway.com and bronze metal clay hishi beads with ceramics. It is made up French knitted copper wire, with of microns of metal (silver, dapped copper end caps. BottomCopper metal clay button charms bronze, or copper), organic on chain maille binder, and water. It is “As a former textile artist who worked with surface design on fabrics, I am now thrilled with the spontaneity of flame painting copper which can produce a whole rainbow of colours. Gilders Paste or Alcohol Inks on etched metal surfaces have also expanded my palette options”.

Eliza Hemingway Art and Design Studio 9752-C Willow Street, Chemainus Hours: Open 11-4 Thursday to Saturday Studio now open for 2012 Season. email: elizahemingway@shaw.ca Phone: 250-324-2212

Paintings • Prints • Cards • Painted Clothing • Art Classes • Murals

Invisible Sun Arts

Featuring the works of Barry Cote

1721C Cowichan Bay Rd. Cowichan Bay Classes start (In the old Udder Guys location) in September Telephone: 250-597-4142 Website: invisiblesun.ca OpenTuesday to Sunday 10-5pm Late Friday and Saturday Nights

shopping IN

s Ice

CHEMAINUS

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Willow Street Merchants

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

Saltspring Soapworks 9748 Willow Street 250 324-2226 Handmade Soaps, Natural Body Care

Chemainus Health Food 9738 Willow Street 250 246-9838 Natural Grocery, Vitamins, Hemp Fashions

* Toad Hall Emporium 9738 A Willow Street 250 246-4400 THE fun place to shop for all ages

Eliza Hemingway Art and Design Studio 9752 C Willow Street Open Thursdays-Sundays 250-324-2212

* The Wine Den 9779 Willow Street 250 324-2215 Wine Kits, Equipment and Supplies

Etc. 9747 Willow Street 250 324-2227 Beads and Beading Classes

* Utopia Bakery A-9780 Willow Street 250 246-9992 Fresh Bread and European Pastries

See you soon!

Seasons Tickets on Sale Now!

We Accept Chemainus Dollars

Come to Chemainus; where the people are friendly and the parking is free! Enjoy shopping, excellent eateries, live music, professional theatre and special events. Come for a day or make it a getaway.

www.visitchemainus.com

* British Allsorts 9776 Willow Street * Karens Uptown Bistro 250 246-9737 Sweets, Treats and Teas 9779 Willow Street 250 246-1059 Local and Seasonal

Chemainus Bluegrass Festival Will Feature Some Top Bands

* Hansel & Gretel’s Candy Company 9748 Willow Street 250 246-1059 Assorted specialty Willow Street Café Sweets 9749 Willow Street 250 246-2434 Homemade Lunch, Snacks, Pizza, Dessert

some Canadian musical Chemainus Bluegrass history; Robinson’s instrument Food Festival was originally owned by Duke July 14 & 15 Waterwheel Park Suggested Donation $10 Adults/$5 Children chemainusbluegrass.com

Neilson, of Don Messer’s Islanders.

The Maple Mountain Boys Willow Street Soapsshowcases Jeff Ellis on Fans of bluegrass in mandolin and fiddle. Ellis 9748music Willoware Street for a treat on 250 July 246-4230 14 and 15 is originally from Virginia, Fine Bluegrass Imported Soaps at the Chemainus where he was state champion and Luxury Bath Items Festival. Bands include with guitar and bass. He is Runaway Train, a Washington from a musical family, his group which showcases the father Ricky having been banjo wizardry of seventeenfive-times world mandolin year old Luke Dewhirst. champion. Ellis has travelled Dewhirst has been sponsored with a number of top bands, by OME banjos since the age including award-winning of seven, and is a winner of Continental Divide, as well the RockyGrass (Colorado) as Marty Rayborn of the banjo contest. Runaway Train supergroup Shenendoah. also features bassist Kent Powell, previously of the The festival’s line-up will popular band Crossfire. The be completed by a couple of band is rounded out with well- popular Vancouver Island known North West bluegrasser bands: Bluegrass Fever (with Greg Linder on guitar, and musicians from Victoria, mandolinist Nolan Elwell. Port Alberni, Nanaimo and Chemainus) and the Cowichan The festival will also present Valley’s Bryon Clayton The June Bugs, a five-piece Thomas. band from Calgary. This group provides an amazing It all takes place at Waterwheel sound with its four-part Park on Saturday, from ten harmonies. Another band AM, with an admission the audience will enjoy is of ten dollars. On Sunday The Clover Point Drifters, events move to the Chemainus featuring bassist George Legion Hall, where a fifteenRobinson, who will be playing dollar ticket buys a brunch and

Valley Voice Magazine -Your Monthly Guide to Living in the Cowichan Valley

tea garden into a Wonderland of merriment and escape. You can also experience the Mad Hats & Teapots Exhibit while at the farm.

a four-hour bluegrass concert from the festival’s top bands. The doors open on Sunday at 9:30 AM. The will be an open-microphone, as well as workshops from the top musicians. Free RV camping and jamming will be at the nearby Saltair Pub.

MAD TEA PARTY Teafarm Garden 8350 Richards Trail, North Cowichan Sunday July 8 3-6pm $10 per person - please call to reserve 250-748-3811 www.teafarm.ca Teafarm is inviting the summer season to come alive in a festive and fun way. Wear your Maddest Hat while you enjoy fresh tea creations and sweeten your afternoon with a slice of cake. Be part of transforming the

July 14th

The 39 Days of July Duncan Summer Festival June 29th – August 6th FAMILY FRIENDLY FREE City Square Stage Charles Hoey Park Downtown Duncan www.cowichanfestival.com

Saturday, 10am - 9pm Waterwheel Park, Chemainus Admission by Donation (suggested:$10 adult, $5 child)

July 15th

Saturday, 9:30am - 1pm Legion Hall, Chemainus Tickets $15 (includes Bluegrass Brunch)

Runaway Train Maple Mountain Boys Bryon Clayton Tomas Clover Point Drifters Bluegrass Fever The June Bugs

Yes, you read it right….The 39 Days of July…from long weekend to long weekend, daily entertainment presented by the Duncan-Cowichan Festival Society. This years’ festivities includes 6 Festival Friday’s showcasing local, island and touring bands and 6 Farmer’s Markets with entertainment in City Square / Charles Hoey Park has 26 Daily Concert Series from noon-8pm / 6 Saturday evening concerts / 6 Summer Sundays including Beach Volleyball during our Canada Day celebrations, Children’s Day-July 8th, Elder’s Day July 15th, Gospel Music Day July

22nd, All Things Green and Bicycle Day July 29th and Country Music Appreciation Day August 5th as well as Duncan’s Got Talent, Show and Tell Tattoo and so much more .Join us in downtown Duncan for Duncan Daze with the Grand Parade July 14th , Children’s Parade July 13th and also our Wednesday Night Walkabouts where various eateries feature entertainment, art and food specials.

The festival began in 1979 and has gone from strength to strength. This year the entire month of July and more will be filled with activities in dynamic downtown Duncan, where entertainment takes place daily in the Charles Hoey Park / Fridays, Saturdays and some Sundays in City Square as well as other venues on various evenings in the downtown area. ‘A rather fun place to be’.

Maple Bay Yacht Club is gearing up for another exciting Adults Learn The month of sailing. We are offering week-long sailing programs To Sail for juniors and month long sessions for adults; where participants will learn the basics of sailing in various different boats. This year Weekends includes an improved adult program that is offered in two different or Evenings class sessions throughout the summer featuring convenient evening

and weekend classes. Earn your certificates and perfect skills that can be used on dinghies, keel boats, and everything in between! New this year is CANSail - A brand new sailing program created by local athletes from Victoria! It expands on the existing sailing levels with a more comprehensive approach to developing sailing skills, while still maintaining a fun atmosphere on the water! The MBYC Sailing Program is open to everyone from 8 – 18 for the junior classes, and the adult program is open to everyone greater than the age of 18 but still ready to be involved! We welcome you to join us for a fun season of activities and sailing. Check out our website at: www.mbyc.bc.ca, or contact the Maple Bay Yacht Club at 250 746 5421. Be sure to register early to avoid being disappointed!

Famous in Chemainus

anada Day Celebration - Sun Jul 1, 11:30am - 3:30pm, Waterwheel Park. Rick Scott and Oh Ogopogo on stage. Emcee Nicole Norris, First Nation Ceremony, petting zoo, pony rides, birthday cake, crafts and more. FREE! visitchemainus.com Capture the Moment: Chemainus BIA Photo Contest. Take a pic in Chemainus and enter to win. A total of $1,700 will be awarded

to 6 winners. Two categories: Lifestyle & Architecture. Entry deadline Aug 15. Registration & rules at visitchemainus.com Joseph and the Amazing Technicolour Dreamcoat - ‘till Sep 1 Fabulous music, showstopping dancing and raucous fun. chemainustheatre.ca Music in the Park - every Tuesday @ 7pm. Waterwheel park. cvcas. com

July 03 - Bluegrass Fever. Fun! July 10 - Phil Newns. Hot velvet jazz. July 17 - Bopoma Marimba. Uplifting Africa music. July 24 - Mexican Bus Ride. Groovilicious! July 31 - Naden Band. Fun and entertaining. ArtBeat - every Fri, 5 to 9pm, Willow Street - An ArtWalk and Street Party takes over a downtown block with art exhibits, live music, artist demonstrations, boutique shopping and dining out. cvcas.com

Café. 250-246-2434 Challenge Triathlon & Duathlon -July 8. Fuller Lake Park. challenge08@shaw.ca Animal Tales – KidzPlay, Chemainus Theatre July 20 Join a confused and caring Naturalist, a fun-loving Sparrow, and their many animal friends in a lively romp through folk tales around the world. Chemainustheatre.ca Dee Kinnee is the Marketing and Event Coordinator for the Chemainus BIA. ChemainusBIA@gmail. com

Songwriter’s Open Mic Sat July 7, 7pm. Willow Street

July 28

wooden boat festival JULY 28 • 2012

Cowichan bay maritime centre

Dinghy Races MUSIC show boats

tours

kids crafts chowder art contest

For more info www.classicboats.org 250-746-4955

Maple Bay Yacht Club CANSail SAILING LESSONS Courses run in July and August 0830 - 1530 Daily Art and Design Studio Eliza Hemingway Our instructors are fully trained9752-F and certifi ed by the Canadian Willow Street, Chemainus Yachting Association. They also hold Open certification in first aid, Hours: 11-4 Thursday to Saturday National Coaching Certification, power operation, Studio nowboat open for 2012boat Season. rescue/life saving, & VHF license. email:operator’s elizahemingway@shaw.ca Beginners and experienced sailors all ages welcome. Phone: of 250-324-2212 To Register: Maple Bay Yacht Club 250 746 4521

Valley Voice Magazine -Your Monthly Guide to Living in the Cowichan Valley

sign Studio us Saturday on.

Valleyview

Centre

Bamberton Celebrates 100 Years- Please Join Us July 8 11:00-5:00pm 1451 Trowsse Rd. 250 743-9196 www.bambertonhistoricalsociety.org

Well Owners Workshop July 12 7:00 pm FREE CVRD Board Room, 175 Ingram St, Duncan 250-746-2641

Bamberton, once an active cement factory, deep sea port and company town, located on the Malahat Drive, is considered one of the most important industrial sites in BC’s history.

Well Owners Workshop - a free event. Calling all well owners! Join us for an evening of learning and discussion about caring for our wells and groundwater. This FREE workshop is hosted by the Cowichan Financed by British investors Valley Regional District in 1912 and named after the company’s managing director (CVRD) and will include a HK Bamber, it later merged panel of diverse local experts with Canadian entrepreneur to address well supply, Robert Butchart, bringing protection, maintenance and world wide attention to the operation, as well as how shores of Saanich Inlet. to test well water, interpret Home results and pursue appropriate The company town flourished as well, with houses, a school, treatment. This free event is brought to you by the CVRD, and community hall strung Vancouver Island Health down the steep hillside, Authority, the Ministry of a close knit community Forests, Lands and Natural dependent on the ups and downs of the cement industry. Resource Operations and On Sunday July 8 relive thePets BC Ground Water this history with guilded Association. Representatives tours conducted by people from these organizations, as who lived and worked at well as the Environmental Bamberton. Travel down Farm Plan and North Island the old main street to the Spirits, Beer & Wine Labs, will be present to original quarry dug 1000 ft answer all your well-related Liquor Plus into the mountainside. Enjoy questions throughout the 250-929-1999 entertainment, special guests, Wine, beerevening. and spirits tea in the garden, heritage crafts, unveiling of a 100 year old sign, and the launch of a newly published book.

So much to oﬀer!

1400 Cowichan Bay Rd Books Bucknuck Books 250-929-2665 Used books and Local authors Fitness Valley Health and Fitness 250-743-0511 Full service gym/classes Spa and Wellness Reiki Wellness 250 743-8122 Relax, Rejuvenate, Detox, Nutrition, Ionized Water Home 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

Food Cobblecinos 250 743 8158 Breakfast, Lunch, Brunch Country Grocer 250 743-5639 Bakery, Meat & Produce Dragon Yuan 250 733-2335 Chinese Eat In/ Take Out Healthcare Cobble Hill Dental 250-743-6698 Friendly, Family Practice

We Welcome New Patients!

South Cowichan Physiotherapy & Sports Rehabilitation 250-743-3833 Physiotherapy, Acupuncture, Orthotics Computers Teky.ca 1-888-843-8359 Computer service & sales Websites & print design

Eliza Hemingway Writer’s Class Thursdays, 6pm - 7:30pm Cowichan Library, Duncan Free- Everyone welcome Details: www.elizahemingway.com

Renaissance Women: Ladies Learn to Fish Image Heather Walker

he Cowichan River Wilderness Lodge in Lake Cowichan promises to tailor their guests’ visits to suit individual requests. Lodge proprietor and guide Kenzie Cuthbert delivered on this promise when nine of us descended on his lodge for a “Ladies Learn to Fish” workshop.

We are members of the Renaissance Women: A group of local artists who learn a Renaissance Woman Heather Kaye new practical skill each month. learning to fly cast from pro fishing Learning how to fish has guide Kenzie Cuthbert. been on our wish list for over www.cowichanriverwildernesslodge.com a year. On a June Monday evening, seven of us piled into Patti’s adventure wagon and made the 30-minute scenic drive from Duncan to the lodge, where we met our friends from Victoria and Tofino. While the lodge’s 16-acre property is quite close to downtown Lake Cowichan, it felt like we were in the middle of the wilderness. The lodge faces a river tributary; a hot tub is perched just above the water, so guests can relax and watch for beaver and otter. We began our workshop with drinks on the outdoor patio, where Kenzie taught us how to tie Trilene and Surgeon’s knots --- essential skills if you don’t want to lose your valuable hooks or flies. Then we moved to the expansive grassy lawns beside the lodge where Kenzie taught us how to use fly and spin-wheel rods. We imagined ourselves as Brad Pitt in A River Runs Through It and soon were pros, coaching one another on how to hold the rod and cast the line. As the sun set, we looked with longing at the campfire area, wishing this was an overnight workshop. But we had more questions to ask and time was short, so we moved indoors. Once settled in on the comfortable couches in front of the river rock fireplace, we fired questions at Kenzie. If most freshwater fishing is catch and release, where can we catch fish to eat them? When do we use worms as bait, and when do we use flies? What’s a bobber? By 9 p.m. we were armed with a cheatsheet handout that Kenzie had prepared just for us, and ready to invest in our own fishing rods. Heather Walker owns and Next step: A Renaissance Women fishing trip.

Valley Voice Magazine -Your Monthly Guide to Living in the Cowichan Valley

operates Makaria Farm with her husband Brock. www.makariafarm.com

Green Living

Green Summer Ideas

here are some very ecologically sound choices we all make that are well practiced this time of year such as; growing your own food, conserving water usage, shopping at the local market etc. Below are a few green summer ideas you may not have considered but would be great fun to incorporate with your family this year. 1. Build and use a solar oven. Lots of plans available on line that are simple and easy to build. Get the kids interested by allowing them to bake cookies in it and then cross your fingers for a sunny day! 2. Start a neighbourbood pool of things that people have but don’t use every day. For adults you can pool tools, lawn mower, sewing machine, bread maker and other unusual kitchen items etc. For kids you can pool sports equipment like hockey/soccer nets, camping gear, wagons etc. With respectful rules around sharing of items it is a great way to reduce consumerism and build community relationships.

3. Learn how to can fruits and veggies. Squirrels have it right, collecting food all summer for the coming winter. If we can and preserve our summer’s bounty we’ll reduce the long distance travel of all the outof-season foods we need to purchase. 4. Use homemade recipes from natural ingredients to keep bugs away from yourself as well as your garden. Many effective recipes available on line with ingredients you likely already have in your cupboards. 5. Make your vacation a staycation. Reduce your carbon footprint by staying home on your holiday time. Unplug the computer and TV just like you would if you were on a beach holiday, leave the car parked and ride your bike to explore all the touristy things in your own area. Summer is an excellent time to slow the pace down and to reconnect, with ourselves, our friends and family, and also with our beautiful planet.

Tracey Hanson local mompreneur and owner/operator Clean Choice Eco-Friendly Cleaning Services

www.cleanchoicecleaners.com

Coaching for Results

Coaching has emerged as a leading resource and skill-set for business leaders to live successful and extraordinary lives. You become clear on the results you want to create, why it matters and design a purposeful action plan to achieve your goals. If you had empowering ways to commit to and achieve results in business and life, what would that make possible for you? As a beginning, I invite you to: Become clear on your goals - Be clear of what you want in business and life, how will you get it, how will you know you have it, and what is your commitment to getting it. Design your business in a way that energizes you and creates the life you want. What is it you truly want to create for yourself? Connect with what is important –Build a grounded foundation to make decisions that align with what you value most and ensure your daily actions are also in alignment with those values. This is the rocket fuel to engagement and commitment that creates breakthrough results. What is important to you about the outcome you aim to achieve? Everyone could use a coach in their corner. If you feel coaching might be for you or are interested in more information, I welcome your contact. Tania Walter Gardiner - Live Your Deﬁnition of Success

ummer is here, and with it comes the hot sunny days that we all love. In Ayurveda this is Pitta Season. The long, steamy, hot days are a welcome relief after our west coast winters, but this also a time when it is easy to overdo, and overheat. Pitta energy when in balance is nurturing, fun, energetic and playful. When its fiery nature gets out of balance it can manifest in frustration, anger, headaches, rashes, and hot flashes. We can easily find balance at this time of year by taking care to be aware of the excess heat, and by creating balance with different practices in our daily lives.

Enjoy Nature – Nature is very balancing to Pitta, and it’s a perfect time to be outside. Enjoy your garden, take a walk in the forest, or a cooling dip in the river or sea. The power of mother earth is wonderful medicine at this time of year. Play- Pitta is very playful in its energy. Give yourself permission to enjoy life. Life is too short to rush around “doing” all of the time. Make time for your friends and your family, be spontaneous and jump into the bliss of being.

Spiritual Counsellor Diet- Pitta can be aggravated by pungent, salty and sour

Julia Star BHD.BEd Spiritual Counsellor

foods. Notice if you are finding too many of these in your meals and add in some cooling energy for balance. Enjoy the abundance of fresh garden vegetables (not too many nightshades!) that are available in the Valley, add cooling herbs, or fresh coconut to your dishes. Cucumbers, Zucchini, Beans, Peas, and Greens are all very balancing to Pitta.

Ayurveda and Summer

Pitta Season Is Here

Invite balance into your being this summer, by creating harmony in the heat. Relax, enjoy, and fully experience the beauty around you.

Asrael is an Ayurvedic Practitioner & Yoga Teacher in the Cowichan Valley. www. anandaayurveda. wordpress.com

Sweet Sounds of Summer The Lakota Flute

Workshops in communication, dream interpretation and Reﬂection Therapy Check website for schedules

250-709-9673 www.longboatcounselling.com info@longboatcounselling.com

S OU L

Aloe-ha! Working with the Whole Person

E S CAPE

Be serious about sun protection! ESTHETICS Enjoy these Eminence products Est. Since 2006 without petrochemicals!

THE ORIGINAL HUNGARIAN ORGANIC SKINCARE LINE IN NORTH AMERICA

The ﬁrst and only Green Spa in the Cowichan Valley.

#4 -5777 Trans Canada Hwy, Duncan 250.748.2056 www.soulescape.ca

Flute workshop in Lake Cowichan

akota flutes have been around for over 2500 years. Also known as the Native American Love Flute, their origins stem from the Sioux First Nation used by young tribal men who played from the heart to attract young women. Legend tells us they were first made to imitate the melodic haunting sounds created when wind moved through hollow branches in the trees. Sounds incorporated into songs while playing these flutes also mimicked sounds of animals and nature. Lakota flutes have a very

soothing sound which people have used in healing, both by playing for someone and by playing the flute themselves. They are relatively easy to play. People of all ages can play these flutes. Music for these flutes is written in a way that anyone can read and learn to play a song. Initially the flutes had a tuning and scale of their own referred to as “Grandfather or Traditional Tunings”. Finger holes on the flutes were evenly spaced. Generally now Lakota Flutes come tuned in a pentatonic scale and are in minor keys.

Valley Voice Magazine -Your Monthly Guide to Living in the Cowichan Valley

This combination gives them their soulful haunting sound. Most Asian and South American instruments are made in pentatonic scales and minor keys while Western and European instruments are made in diatonic scales and major keys. Flutes come in various sizes depending on the key they are in. Higher flutes are shorter. Locally, Lakotal flutes have been handmade by Rommy Verlaan for over 6 years. She establishes the key of each flute before she begins making them from a variety of woods both local and exotic hard woods. Most of her flutes are constructed from Red Cedar, Yellow Cedar, Walnut, Maple, Yew and Purple Heart. All her flutes are planed , sanded and filed by hand. Each totem is individually hand carved and are mostly carved into animals. The totem is the sound mechanism which makes her Lakota flutes very easy to play. They angle the air you blow to make the sound. For those looking for a particular key or sound, she makes custom flutes with individually chosen woods and totems that the musician connects with such as wolves, bears, dolphins, hummingbirds or ravens etc. Workshops to learn how to play these flutes have been held in Lake Cowichan for over 5 years. They are held in the spring and the fall and are taught by Ed Peekeekoot. An Aboriginal Music Awards nominee, Ed is a local First Nations singer, songwriter and musician. Anyone who has never even blown a note will generally be able to play the scale after a one day workshop. For more information visit Rommy at the Saturday Duncan Market or at www. heartsongflutes.ca or phone 250-749-6563.

Start SUMMER with a clean home and workplace.

12th Annual Buddha In the Park July 21, 22, 23 # 4 - Johnny Bear Road Duncan 778. 422. 0155 www.VIRetreats.com

The 12th Annual Buddha In the Park is a special opportunity for people from all faiths and all walks of life to discover the Buddha Nature that exists in the light and energy of Mother Earth. Topics include Meaning of Nirvana, Karma, Cause and Effect, the Mysteries of Life and Death. Since the 1950’s the Buddhist philosophy has grown in our Western world; this living philosophy underlines one of the oldest spiritual practices on earth, the faith of compassion and peaceful means. It offers important principles in living with Health, Happiness and Prosperity. The Buddha’s teachings are always free, donations according to value received and financial ability accepted with gratitude. Henry Landry, Author, Teacher, Messenger has been offering group and personal retreats for fifteen years, he is Lay Monk of the Nichiren Buddha Society of Vancouver Island. His book Buddha Nature now in its second printing, is celebrating it’s 5th anniversary this summer. For full information visit the website www.VIRetreats.com or call 778 422 0155.

Giving you back the luxury of time and a naturally clean home to enjoy it in! Providing professional, eco friendly cleaning services.

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

Home Cleaning Gift Certiﬁcates available for Family & Friends!

“where beauty and time intertwine...” Peddies at Cloud 10 Esthetics are a treat and a pleasure. Everything is just right. The room is beautiful, products are special, and one feels soothed. The location is quiet and relaxing and easy to find. Tina is so skilled and careful and I anticipate the foot and leg massage that comes with the pedicure. I love my toes when everything is done and the pedicure lasts and lasts. I don’t consider a pedicure by Tina as a ‘treat’. I consider it essential! Brenda Burch Dumont Social Media Simple

Find out how Medical Qi Gong can be a part of Tina Nordstrand your journey to 250-597-3333 healing, health www.cloud10esthetics.com and vitality.

Experience the Healing sounds of the Lakota Flute Learn to play Workshops, and Flute Circles in lovely Lake Cowichan

Medical Qi Gong Exercise Classes and Treatments at Harmony Yoga, Duncan For information contact Rommy: 250-749-6563 or rommy.v@hotmail.com or visit the Duncan Market 9am - 2pm

35 Medical Qi Gong Exercise Classes Fridays 10:15am-11:45 am Harmony Yoga, 111 Station St., Duncan

Summer is here and we want to help you be prepared; here is a Farm Store Guide to sun screens, snacking and seasonal ailment solutions. Sunscreens are one of those products that require a lot of research before we bring them in as we want only the best for our customers and our families. With hundreds of brands to choose from, I turned to Environmental Working Group’s Skin Deep test results as a first step in narrowing down the search. EWG analyzed over 800 sun screens this year and only 25% met their standards for effective-ness and safety. The best sun screens are those that have “broad spectrum protection”, this means that they protect your skin from both UVA and UVB rays. UVA are long wave ultraviolet rays that pene-trate deep into the skin and can lead to premature aging and suppression of the immune system. UVB are short wave ultraviolet rays which burn the superficial layers of the skin and cause a sunburn. Mineral sun screens contain active ingredients such as zinc which scatter and reflect UVA and UVB rays and are effective immediately after they are applied. Choosing some of the top picks from EWG’s list, combined with feedback from our staff and customers, the following brands can now be found at the Community Farm Store.

Please remember that there really is no “safe” way to tan and you should not rely on sunscreen alone. Cover up with hats, sunglasses and long sleeved shirts and pants if you are going to be outside in the sun for long periods of time. When the sun is at it’s strongest, (between 10am and 4PM) it’s advisable to seek some shade. Oh yeah, and don’t forget to protect your lips. We carry Badger SPF 15 lip balm. We have sourced out several effective products for keeping the pests away including Green Beaver citronella free outdoor lotion, Dragonfly Dreaming’s Bug Her Off and Gentle Earth’s Bug Off summer lotion. Some say mosquitoes like people who eats lots of sugar so maybe this is a good time to cut back on the sweets. Or warm your bones — depending on what the weather decides to do this summer. You can

decide whether to use our new line of insulated food flasks & water bottles for tea, hot chocolate or cold white wine. Tami has ordered in a two new lines of bottles and food containers from S’well and Hydro Flask that can keep drinks/food cold 24 hours or warm 12 hours and the colours are awesome. Camping, picnics, hiking a mountain, riding a trail, riverside walks and impromptu garden parties. So many occasions to enjoy some healthy snacks and here are a few of our favorites ... Home Grown Living Foods~ local and raw... we love Shani and we love her kale chips, RAWgles, MACAroonies & Livies. Organic Lives~ this Vancouver based company is passionate about food and farm-ers... the Sprouted Hunza Valley granola makes a great snack as do the Chili Sprouted Spanish Almonds and the Spanish Almond Croutons. Living Intentions~ new arrival... raw and sprouted nut blends, trail mixes and sprouted seeds... if you have to pick just one, may I suggest you try the Pumpkin & Sunflower with Ay-urvedic Chili Blend? Tao Organics~ New! raw veggie crackers and pizza crust. Made in Vancouver. SeaSnax~ this GMO free seaweed snack is delicious and available in classic olive oil, chipotle, onion & wasabi. Late July~ a fabulous company dedicated to providing healthy chip choices and we carry them all... How Sweet Potato It Is would be a welcome addition to any picnic or potluck feast. Lots More~ Be sure to check out our organic fresh nuts, corn, bean and potato chips, power bars, dried fruits and of course, the fabulous produce section where you will find a wonderful selection of organic fresh fruit and veggies (lots of local!), always the perfect snack. Hikers; backpackers: be sure to check out the superfood section for products that offer maximum food and energy value with minimal weight.

So Simple but sooooo good! ... I saved the best until last... Cyrus wonderful creation he treated us to last week would make a hit at any picnic; Rice crackers with goat mozzarella, a basil leaf and a slice of tomato... so yummy and beautiful too! Speaking of cheese: We are very proud of our amazing organic cheese selection including Láncetre and LeChaudier — made from raw cow’s milk — and the recent arrival of Gort’s Gouda, Feta and Quark; made from 100% grass-fed BC cows milk. So awesome!

Valley Voice Magazine -Your Monthly Guide to Living in the Cowichan Valley

Be prepared for anything this summer by having a little first aid kit packed and ready to go. You know what your go-to remedies are for you and your family to soothe that scrape, bonk or sting; and here are a few suggestions of products we trust and rely on for our own families: • Lily of the Desert Aloe Vera to soothe burns • Schuessler Tissue Salts such as FERR PHOS spray to stop bleeding and NAT MUR for sunburns (“2 tabs every 2 hours”, says Khrystie) • Bach Rescue Cream for insect bites • Weleda Burn Care Ointment (good for burns but also great for insect bites) • Weleda Arnica Ointment for bruises, bumps, muscle pain and strain. • Bach Rescue Remedy for shock, scare— or emotional “episodes”. (Yes, they happen — even on picnics!) • Green Beaver Citronella free Outdoor Lotion to keep those pests away • Traumeel cream for sore muscles, strains and bruises • Traumeel tincture when there is physical injury • Witch Hazel Extract -an antiseptic, can be used to dilute essential oils for topical use • Calendula/Comfrey salve for minor cuts and scrapes • Lavender oil for wounds and burns, anxiety and head aches • Peppermint tea to soothe an upset stomach • Ginger tea to soothe digestion or help with motion sickness • Schuessler Tissue salts; something for everything including first aid, motion sickness, headaches, over heating and much more; please inquire. • CocoHydro dehydrated coconut water to replenish electrolytes …. just add water. • scissors; tweezers; bandaids. • Staff Favourite: Harmonic Arts “Rescue Kit”: includes Rescue Salve, Trauma Salve, and Pain Relief Elixir. Locally produced!

Wow, nine years since our big move from downtown Glenora to the Duncan Garage in downtown Duncan! Come help us celebrate on Saturday

The 2012 Summer Festival has an incredible schedule that runs from Canada Day long weekend through to BC Day long weekend — 39 days of free family fun. As part of the Festival, The Community Farm Store and The Duncan Garage Café and Bakery, together with the Duncan Garage Showroom will be celebrating their 9th anniversary. There will be the traditional serving of organic birth-day cake in the café at 2 p.m., and there will also be a full day of Ga-rage sponsored live music in Charles Hoey Park. At 6 p.m. we invite you to a special performance by Bopoma Marimba, our farm store favourite marimba band! Dancing encouraged! For more details, check out the Summer Festival schedule that will be available at our store and other fine downtown Duncan locations! Thanks to Longevity John and his team for their superhuman efforts to stretch July into 39 days!

Let us know if you would like some help putting together a first aid kit; our friendly staff would be happy to help. Have a fun and safe summer! Nicolette says you should all make a point to soak up as much of those forest and ocean and river enzymes as you can this summer to ensure yourself good health all winter! And good memories!

About our Pets

Ukee Days Logger Sports

Cat and Dog “tales” Demystified

People food should be off limits In moderation is okay, except fatty, spicy or sweet, especially chocolate. Bad dog breath is normal Not true, this is a sign of illness or teeth or mouth disease

UKEE DAYS July 27th – 29th Friday: 200 Main Street at the Village Green Sat & Sun: Festival Grounds 160 Seaplane Base Rd Ucluelet, B.C. ukeedays.wordpress.com FB: ukeedays

Cats and dogs eat grass when they are ill – Not true. They actually like the taste, somewhat like our salad. It pushes other food through digestive tract. They may vomit or defecate after eating grass. A wagging dog tail is a friendly one Not necessarily so. Check their eyes and body language to decide. A hot, dry nose means cat or dog is sick Actually, the real way to tell is taking rectal temperature. Normal is between 101.5 and 102.5 Cats always land on their feet Although they have great acrobatic skills and keen balance, they can be injured Cats should drink milk Not true, this can cause kidney stones and intestinal discomfort – water is all that is needed and the best alternative.

Made on the Island for the Island

Good Nutrition with properly balanced ingredients is most important in keeping your pets healthy.

Sheila Jones offers holistic consultations for both people and pets. www.holisticnc.ca

Ukee Days in Ucluelet, BC is 3 days of non-stop fun and festivities for the whole family! Ukee Days welcomes everyone from near and far into the unique community of Ucluelet for the 38th annual weekendlong festival. Included in the fun is a variety of live music and entertainment, Salmon & Oyster BBQ, an awesome parade, beer gardens, contests and competitions, a crazy KidZone, tons of delicious food, and Logger Sports!

Large or small we feed them all. Hours of operation Sun 10 - 4pm Mon - Sat 8:30am - 6pm

LOGGER SPORTS 2012 marks the 30th year Ukee Days has hosted the Canadian Logger Sports Championships, which celebrate Canadian heritage. Logger Sports originated in Canada in the late 1800’s in logging camps around the country, and a variety of events are included within the Canadian Championships. This year Ukee Days is proud to feature 140cc hot saw and ladies axe throw on Saturday, July 28th in addition to kids logger sports on Sunday, July 29th. Participants come from all over the world to compete in these fast-paced events that celebrate Ucluelet’s heritage and history as a logging industry town on the coast of Vancouver Island.

2800 Roberts Rd. Duncan (250) 746-5101, Fax (250) 597-0312

100% Fresh

100% Locally Owned and Operated

Valley Voice Magazine -Your Monthly Guide to Living in the Cowichan Valley

Two Great Rides When cycling the Cowichan Valley you can’t avoid hills… unless you head out along the relatively flat Cowichan Valley Trail. This multi-use trail has a gentle grade and you can easily ride through the prettiest, most peaceful terrain. I recently rode the trail with my dogs. Beginning at Sherman Road I rode to Lake Cowichan, towing a doggie trailer behind me so my canine companions could ride when they tired of running. I stopped for a picnic in Lake Cowichan then headed back…coasting much of the way on the gentle down-grade of the former CN railway-line. With so many spots to “put in” one could make discovering the trail’s delicious secrets a summer project. Between Lake Cowichan and Glenora the CVT is not as nicely groomed so consider using a bike with suspension. Your body will thank you.

When seeking more of a heart-thumping ride, I jump on my new Trek road bike on a route that offers challenging climbs and ends with a great cup of coffee. Starting at Cycle Therapy on Trunk Road I head to Coronation, then across the TCH, and back on Trunk until I hit Jaynes. The Jaynes Road secret is that it’s a much gentler hill rising to Lakes Road. Then the ride begins in earnest with a speedy ride along Lakes; a quick right on Herd; and a left onto Richards Trail. Expect more hills as you wind right onto Westholme, Chemainus, and Crofton Roads. From Crofton turn left onto Chaplin then right onto York. York becomes Osborne Bay Road with good climb out of Crofton. At the end of some exhilarating climbs and drops you hit Herd and turn left towards Maple Bay. Right onto Maple Bay Road and back to Trunk. Right on Coronation and stay the course until you hit Duncan. Find ‘Coffee on the Moon’ on Canada Avenue, order the best Latte you’ll ever have and enjoy. You earned it! Sandra Beggs owns and operates Cycle Therapy in Duncan. wwwcycletherapy.ca

FREE Bike Clinics All summer long! Basic bike maintenance, Tire maintenance and questions 9:00 am Saturdays

Nature Camp For Kids Cowichan Bay Estuary Centre

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m ong ca l k 2012 e , e 4 2 W t s ears; to Augu July 9 2:00pm for 6-8 y17 years

& 139am - 1 for 9-12 m p 3 entre, 9am to ature C y N y r a an Ba an Estu Cowich Park, Cowich Hecate $252

00 -

1 Cost: $

Contact:

camps@cowichanestuary.ca; or register in person at Island Savings Centre or by calling 250-748-7529

in cooperation with the Cowichan Land Trust Cowichan Valley Regional District, the Cowichan Valley Naturalists and Cowichan Tribes

Children participating in a beach siene in Cowichan Bay.

ocal kids will have a wonderful opportunity to take part in Nature camps hosted by the The Cowichan Estuary Nature Centre. The centre is a project of the Cowichan Land Trust in cooperation with the Cowichan Valley Regional District, the Cowichan Valley Naturalists, Cowichan Tribes, and many energetic local volunteers, especially the Rotary Club of Duncan who contributed both money and more than 300 hours of volunteer labour. Participants will learn about nature and the ecology

of estuaries with handson field and laboratory activities. Topics will include tidal action, birds, fish, invertebrates, plants, and other wildlife. Information gathered will be part of long-term estuary monitoring programs. There will be environmental stewardship projects and lots of fun activities, too. What a great opportunity to have fun and learn about your environment! For schedules and registration call 250 748 7529.

Rob’s Lighthouse Eatery & Art Gallery Fresh, friendly, affordable and pet-friendly!

An Unparalleled bread experience

• Fish, Veggie and Beef Burgers • Fresh-cut Fries • Fish & Chips • Lavazza Espresso and more!

Dine In on our heated patio or Take Out!

Cowichan Bay Waterfront

Check out our NEW Rustic Loaf made with Vancouver Island wheat.

Cowichan Bay 746-7664

Mill Bay 929-1119

Visit truegrain.ca for hours of operation. 40

Valley Voice Magazine -Your Monthly Guide to Living in the Cowichan Valley

Summer Fun For Kids of All Ages Clay Fun For Kids

ara Friest at Tara Firma Studios in Duncan has become well known to children and families in the area providing creative classes, fun workshops and day camps for everyone. “I love watching the faces of my students, brows furrowed deep in concentration as they work, or faces smiling, hands flying around as they magically transform a blob of “mud” into a unique masterpiece. Why do we use this mucky medium? Clay strengthens! Working with this natural medium improves hand-eye coordination, strengthens muscles, develops fine motor skills, and enhances muscle memory. Pinching, poking, shaping, and forming clay gives instant gratification while taking a project to completion teaches patience, acceptance, and adaptability. Clay is captivating! Little hands and minds (even as young as three) are so fully engaged that when the hour and a half class is finished, they are shocked to see how quickly the time has passed. I have seen children and adults with all sorts of designations (autism, attention hyperactivity disorder, developmental delays, obsessive compulsive disorders, bipolar disorder, and more) whose symptoms practically disappear when enthralled in the process

Rene Deerheart

Children enjoying creative play at Tara Firma Studios.

of creating with clay. Clay becomes even more appealing when the finished project is unveiled. Clay is magical and remarkable. I constantly marvel at the science of clay: how a brick of squishy muck can magically transform into a beautiful work of art. The secret? Just some poking, prodding, and a pinch or two. Then add heat, a splash of colour, more fire—and voila! Clay. Muddy, slippery, dirty, earthy blobs of goop. Beautiful globby gifts from Mother Nature. Merci, Maman!” For those interested in getting their hands dirty Tara Firma Studios is hosting their annual open house 10am-1pm Saturday July 7. It will be by donation with all profits going to COS (Community Options Society). During the open house people will have the opportunity to get messy and make a clay project. All projects will be fired and picked up at a later date. Check out her website www. tarafirmastudios.com for more info about summer camps and upcoming classes.

Designer & Artisan Certiﬁed Teacher of Metal Clay www.deerheart.com 250-715-0207 Duncan

Tara Firma Studios

Clay Art Classes and Creations

1- 466 Chesterﬁeld Ave Duncan, BC V9L 3L8 250 715-1754 tarafs@telus.net For more information on classes, group lessons and creative clay parties please visit our website.

10% Off Camp Fees With This AD

www.taraﬁrmastudios.com

Adornments of Jewelry, using Metal Clays of silver, copper, & bronze, Flame Painted Copper, Japanese Brocade, French Knitted Wire, Viking Knit, & Kumihimo Braid

What Would Ms Polly Do? Food and Little Ones

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

Every Sunday supper of my childhood my mother would prepare roast beef and gravy, mashed potatoes,Yorkshire pudding and my favourite creamed corn. I looked forward to making a well in the potatoes for the sweet creamed corn. Mom smiled encouragingly at my enjoyment. She loved creamed corn, therefore, so did I. When I was in my twenties I learned that my mom did not ever care for creamed corn and she only pretended to like creamed corn so that I truly would. She set an example for me to enjoy a food.

On Vancouver Island, we all know that marine search and rescue is an important public service. Budget cuts that result in closure of centres of reduction in services are an unacceptable risk for those of us living on the Coast.

Even when we serve the best food with a good example our children will have their own preferences, likes and dislikes. Serving a new food with a choice that they already like will make the introduction easier. The decision to try the new new food may take as many as ten experiences before the mouth and the mind accept the idea to have a taste. As parents we decide what to serve and our children decide how much to eat.

Conservatives also defeated a NDP motion for the adoption of the common international readiness standard of 30 minutes at all times in response to search and rescue incidents.

The Conservative decision to close the Kitsilano Coast Guard Station - one of the most active in the country - will double response times in Canada’s busiest harbour. Both the BC government and the City of Vancouver have protested and argued for it to stay open. Even a Conservative MP urged a re-think of the decision to close Kitsilano and the marine communications centres in Ucluelet and Tofino.

Presently the response time is 30 minutes only on weekdays between 8am and 4pm but 2 hours the rest of the time, during the period when over 80% of search and rescue taskings occur. The government has failed to take the necessary action to remedy the situation. New Democrats believe these cuts are an abdication of the federal government’s duty to protect Canadian citizens.

I am disheartened when I hear parents say (within earshot of their little ones) that their children will never eat or like a certain food. The children have an entire lifetime of eating ahead of them and their preferences and cravings will morph as they grow. I am so glad my mom kept her biases to herself and she let me decide if I liked a food or not. Paulette is an Educator of Parents and Children in the Waldorf Philosophy. She lives in Victoria.

sign Studio us Saturday on.

Eliza Hemingway Writer’s Class Thursdays, 6pm - 7:30pm Cowichan Library, Duncan Free- Everyone welcome Details: www.elizahemingway.com

Valley Voice Magazine -Your Monthly Guide to Living in the Cowichan Valley

Moonbeams Often we can see the moon during the day, why is that? Well, during the day the lightness of the sky washes out the normal brightness of stars however, occasionally the very brightest stars, like Venus, can be detected by the naked eye. When we look at the moon what we are seeing is the reflection of light, although the moon is not as bright as the sun it is 100,000 times brighter than the brightest stars which allows us to see it during the day. July 3rd at 11:52am we welcome the Capricorn full moon to our skies. Capricorn moons are times to come to terms with things and action giving us an opportunity to move forward while healing longstanding wounds. Her presence provides us with patience and perseverance to

follow through with our tasks. Think about your goals, plans and actions this month. Even though July has only one full moon it has many names across the globe. Names such as Mead Moon (English Medieval & Celtic) mead means ‘July’ and is a traditional alcoholic beverage made of fermented honey and yeast, Buck Moon (Algonquin) the time of year when young deer begin to push out their new velvety antlers, Hay Moon (English) best period to harvest hay before the next rain, and Rose Moon (Neo Pagan) for the short strawberry harvesting season in their area. Other names are Thunder Moon and Blood Moon.

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

Golf Tips From A Pro

A Good Walk Spoiled? Mark Twain once quipped that golf is a good walk spoiled. In my golfing romps I have witnessed monkeys in the trees of Southeast Asia seeming to laugh at my swing, Cuckoo birds cuckooing in the middle of my backswing in Austria, American tourists being chased off the course by a black bear in Whistler, PGA tour players being awed by the salmon run up 16 Mile Creek at Glen Abbey. At Arbutus Ridge GC I’ve seen deer, eagles, and rabbits

to mention a few. All the while knowing I’m playing a course that takes pride and every measure to sustain its Audubon designation. Golf IS a good walk; stats show that you will burn an average of 1500 calories per round of 18 holes walking. Perhaps Mark was trying to keep his head down while all that nature was going on around him. Should have taken a lesson!

WEBSITES, EMAILS AND VERBAL LINT THEATRE GROUP ... Mike Moroz is proud to announce the creation of “a brand new innovative theatre company” in the Valley called The Neighbourhood Players. The group already has its own Facebook page. Mike also teaches at Cowichan Secondary School in Duncan: “Our 2012-2013 season is set: 25th Annual Putnam County Spelling Bee, Scapino, You’re a Good Man Charlie Brown; Sisters. It’s going to be another tremendous year for the performing arts at Cowichan Secondary!” Mike is also listed on the Internet Movie Database. According to Imdb, Mike acted as production manager for locally filmed productions such as “Keyeye: The Movie” and associate producer and casting director for direct-to-video horror flick “Sleepover Nightmare”. (He also played a small role in that film as a bumbling policeman). NEW ARTS SPACE: Studio 261 is located at (surprise!) 261 South shore Rd in Lake Cowichan. Currently the new venue boasts two teaching studios, three music teachers (piano, voice, guitar, clarinet, flute and music theory), a large lobby with wall space for art, a grand piano and an open room (that can comfortably seat twenty people). Studio 261 is available to any artist or arts group at minimal or no cost. Judith Quinlan says the vision for the venue “is to develop a place where artists of all sorts- visual artists, musicians, writers, actors and other performers can work, meet and show off their talents.” The studio has already hosted a poetry slam. Plans for the fall include a regular coffeehouse and public workshops. For more info contact Judith at 250-749-3728 or email soundofmusic3@shaw.ca NEW PLACE TO EAT ... Liz and Lance Steward, owners and originators of Just Jake’s restaurant in Duncan and Craig Street Brewpub, have launched a new venture called Jake’s at the Lake. Several restaurants have come and gone at this Lake Cowichan location, most recently Dermod and Dudley’s Irish Pub, but if anyone can make a go of it at this spot, it is the daring and resourceful Stewards. By Rick Dennis

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

Donations Gratefully Accepted

Peter Oliphant Director of Instruction GBC Golf Academy at Arbutus Ridge Golf Club

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

Cowichan Feature Listings Offers individual and couple counselling sessions related to grief, stress management, conflict resolution, communication and personal growth. Specialized in addiction issues. Mes services sont aussi offerts en francais si desire. N’hesitez pas a appeler pour avoir de l’aide! 331 St. Julian Street Duncan, BC 250- 510 - 0182

Sophie Barbant - Hayward, M.A. Registered Professional Counsellor Bilingual French and English

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

Want to learn how to make your own jewellery? Etc! offers a wide range of classes from introductory classes in Beading, Kumihimo and Bead Weaving to more advanced techniques and workshops. We have a fantastic range of beads and supplies as well as unique gifts. Call for prices and dates 250 324 2227 New Hours Monday - Saturday 9-5 and Sunday 10 - 4

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

Metal Artist Brad Allen

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

- Metal Wall hangings - Free Standing Sculptures

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.

With a torch,welder and array of metal finishing tools, Brad creates joyful, nurturing and thought-provoking pieces.

Studio located in Duncan by appointment Brad Allen 250 748 0934 www.meddleart.com

Memory foam yoga mat PVC Free. Ideal for pre/postnatal yoga, pilates and those who need more support.

Decor and Design for all types of yoga at historic Suitable including, Vinyasa Flow, Power, Bikram, Ashtanga, Iyengar, Gentle and Kundalini. Whippletree Junction Lynda Allen 250-748-0934 lyndaallentapstudio@shaw.ca

WHIPPLETREE

JUNCTION 4705 Trans Canada Hwy

Furniture,Crafts and Specialty Bears!

Joing us in celebration of our ﬁrst anniversary

Teddy Bear’s Picnic

Leola’s Studio In The Courtyard

in our new location!

Bears in the Cupboard

- Classes - Shared Studio

- Community Loom - Gift Certiﬁcates - Locally made textiles Open Friday, Saturday and Sunday,

Summer hours 10am to 5pm bearsinthecupboard@gmail.com.

The hom

Spe beauti Cana Dining R Living Hom Ec Sof

25 www

- Weaving and Spinning

yarns, wools, needles, books and notions. 250 746 5250

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

www.vvitayoga.ca Richard 250 746 9319 Vancouver Island and Gulf Islands Distributor

July 29th•11am to 1pm

The Loom

The Wickertree

9747c Willow St, Chemainus 250 324 2227

Learn and Experience the joy of textiles. leolasstudio.blogspot.com

Valley Voice Magazine -Your Monthly Guide to Living in the Cowichan Valley

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)

This month you want to nest at home because you feel a need to have time alone. Childhood memories will bubble to the surface of your mind. You’ll appreciate being around familiar things. This is why you want to bounce your thoughts off of third party – a friend, advisor or professional counsellor because families can be supportive but also quite maddening. George Burns was right: “Happiness as a loving, warm, caring family living in another city.”

Taurus (April 20-May 20)

Expect a busy month with an accelerated daily pace because your schedule will be busy taking short trips or running around doing errands. You feel the need to be on the move, which is why this is a good time for a vacation. You’re eager to reach out to others because you want to enlighten others and share your opinions. Basically, you’ll be eager, enthusiastic, mentally alert and on the go, learning new things and sharing your ideas. (And remember: The password is “Sherbet lemon.”)

Gemini (May 21-June 20)

You’ve just had your birthday and new year. And with fair Venus and lucky Jupiter in your sign, you Specialising in sense this is a time of opportunity beautiful woods andand fresh beginnings. There’s a difference Canadian furniture. between having with a sense of intent and a To Do list. Dining Room • having Bedroom The latter is a list of activities, Livingbut Room • Tables the former is potentially life-changing. This is why you’re Home Accesories thinking about Eco friendly how you would you’re beginning The home of fine furnishingsa

Sofas & Chairs

like to earn money, and what you want to do with your money. Ka-ching!

Cancer ( June 21-July 22)

This week the Sun boosts your energy and attracts favourable circumstances and important people. It’s appropriate to put yourself first because you have a strong need to express yourself. This is the beginning of your personal year (birthday to birthday), which is more real than the beginning of a calendar year. Because the Sun in your sign allows you to project yourself more forcefully, you’ll make a strong impression on others. You want to run the show!

Leo ( July 23-Aug. 22)

Your birthday is a month away. January 1 is an arbitrary date but your birthday is when the degree of your sign lines up with the degree of the Sun in the sky. It’s a “real” beginning. Why not set some goals? Life is a conveyor belt. You get on until you get off. The ride is your life, chopped into illusory segments called days, months and years. But you’re always on the ride. The question is – what do you want to do with the time left to you?

Virgo (Aug. 23-Sept. 22)

It’s a popular month. Enjoy schmoozing! Accept invitations to socialize and extend a few yourself. You might join a club or take a class. You’ll find it rewarding to be with others because not only will you enjoy the contact and a chance to exchange ideas, you’ll be excited to discuss your dreams for the future with them. And their feedback will help you! Others can help you now, which is why you should encourage them to be in your life.

Libra (Sept. 23-Oct. 22)

The Sun is at the top of your chart acting like a spotlight,

July Horoscopes which is why others notice you. Since this lighting is flattering, you look great to others, which is why you’ll be asked to take on increased responsibilities. Just say yes because you’ll be able to do the job. You’re also thinking about your career and your life direction. If you don’t know where you’re headed, how can you make important decisions? You would just be a chicken crossing the road – poultry in motion.

Scorpio (Oct. 23-Nov. 21)

Life is exciting because you’ve decided it’s time to spread your wings! Many of you will have rewarding experiences by travelling somewhere new or learning new things or enjoying exciting adventures. You’re hungry to enrich your world. Do make an effort to travel, sign up for courses, go back to school, or put yourself in a situation where you will discover new ideas from people from different backgrounds. You want to break stagnant boundaries and free yourself from routine.

Sagittarius(Nov.22-Dec.21)

“The King was in his counting house, counting out his money. The Queen was in the parlour, eating bread and honey.” Your focus now turns to debt, taxes, inheritances, insurance matters and red-tape details. Fortunately, sweet sex will play a larger role in your life. However, in the bigger picture, you’re trying to clean up your act so you can be a better person. You might even meet a teacher or someone who provokes self-inquiry or challenges your values. (We never really grow up; we only learn how to act in public.)

Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan. 19)

This month the Sun is opposite your sign, which is as far away from you as it gets all year. Since the Sun is your source of energy -you’re going to need more sleep! Recognize this need for more rest. This opposing Sun will also draw your attention to partnerships and close friendships. Not only will you give them more thought, you’ll have a chance to observe yourself in action, which is why the next month is an opportunity for you to see how to improve these close relationships, whether you’re in bed or not. (Yawn.)

Aquarius ( Jan. 20-Feb. 18)

You’ve decided to get a little closer to perfection which is why you have To Do lists to help you be efficient, effective and productive. You want to get things done! You want to feel more on top of your scene. And you want to feel healthier. You want to eat better, sleep better and get exercise in a home that is tidier. You might not alphabetize your CDs but you’re headed in that direction. You’ll feel so pleased with yourself when you live up to these new standards of self-control and self-discipline. (Let’s call this your smug month.)

Pisces (Feb. 19-March 20)

Tra-la, tra-la! It is to laugh. This can be one of the most fun months of the year for you. July is all about love, romance, social tête-à-têtes, parties, sports events, fun vacation escapes, and playful times with children. It’s your turn to kick up your heels, let your hair down and paint the town red! Naturally, you’re going to need a supporting cast for all this and no doubt they will materialize. Lovers, running mates, friends and creative, artistic contacts will appear to give you lots of thrilling experiences.

www.georgianicols.com

250 737 1773 www.sassywood.ca

Interested in contributing to the Valley Voice? E-mail us at editor@cowichanvalleyvoice.com