June 2011 Issue 31

ISSN 1920-8200

June 2011•Issue 31

•June Events Calendar •Local Arts •Cowichan Bay Boat Festival •TLC’s Be The Change Campaign •Buy Local, Buy Fresh Cowichan Food Map

2

Cowichan Bay Boat Festival Saturday June 18th Come and share this year’s exciting events.

“Zero Waste -How do you recycle?”

We encourage you to dress up using recycled products. Take part in the annual Fast and Furious Boat Building Competition, vote for your favorite chowder, and enjoy the entertainment.

Lots of family fun!

For more info 250 746 4955 cwbs@classicboats.org Valley Voice Magazine. For people who love to eat, live, play and shop in the Cowichan Valley.

3

June 2011 Vol 2 Issue 31 The monthly guide to living in the beautiful Cowichan Valley.

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

Writers’ Voice Editor John Steven

Advertising Enquiries Please Call Diana Pink 250-733-2635 or e-mail diana@cowichanvalleyvoice.com *Non Profit Community Ad Rates available please enquire.

COMMUNITY CALENDAR LISTINGS ARE FREE!

Please upload your information through our website or e-mail the Date, Time, Event Title and Place Please be advised that space is limited to 1st sent, 1st printed.

Please send info by the 15th day of the preceding month to: events@cowichanvalleyvoice.com

Valley Voices

Heather Walker, Rick Dennis, Tony Balding, Shani Cranston, Matt Horn, Shani Cranston, Carianne Smogor, Aaron Bichard, John Steven, Ajay Appelar, Joy Story, Nancy Mobley, Tracey Paleczka, Tani Hamagishi-Allen, Heather Kaye, Heather Skydt, Debbie Shkuratoff, Lorene Benoit, Peggy Plondon, Kevin Macdonald, Amanda Reimer, Robin Massey, Suzan Lagrove, Jen Holden, Jenn George, Cari Burdett, David Martinello, Patricia Zuk, Suzan Kostiuk, Sandra Greenaway, Kate Koyote, Cindy Storie-Soth, Lynn Weaver, Robert McCourty, Galen Humber, Edna Widenmeir, Karen Hepp, Carol Borrett, Terry Harrison, Kate Marsh, Javan Kerby Bernakevitch, Sandra Carr, Suzan Lagrove, Grant Waldman, Peggy Grigor, Rick Juliusson, Kenzie Cuthbert, Nicolette Genier, Cindy Dreger, Julia Star, Sue McKitrick & The Lovely Georgia Nicols

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

Valley Voice Magazine is distributed to 250+ select locations throughout the Cowichan Valley- Malahat, Mill Bay, Shawnigan Lake, Cherry Point, Duncan, Cowichan Bay, Crofton, Chemainus and Salt Spring Island and to Ladysmith, Victoria, Courtenay and Tofino.

Cover Image (cropped edit of original image) Carol Borrett, Becalmed in Paradise 36” x 25” www.westcoastwatercolour.com

Pages

Table of Contents 4 Community Events Calendar 5 Community Thank You For Making a Difference 6 June Happenings 7 Cowichan Bay Boat Festival 8 Cowichan Bay Seafoods Recipe 9 Discover The Flavours of Cowichan 9 Buy Local! Buy Fresh! from the Cowichan Valley 10 The Lowdown on Certified Organics 11 hOMegrown Foods 12 Community Farm Store Pages 13 BBQ Chicken Recipe Dad Will Love 14 On The Farm: Garlic Scapes 15 Vanilla Rhubarb Pound Cake 16 Passionate About Edible Gardens 16 Foxglove Community Gardens 17 Chemainus X Ray Fundraiser 17 Cowichan Aboriginal Art Prize 18 Pottery Prudence 18 Visions Art Tour Featured Artists 19 Kimonos On Display: Sandra Greenaway 20 Cowichan Valley Artisans 20 Talking Arts: Tani Hamagishi-Allen 21 Music Bustin Out: Cowichan Folk Guild Update 22 Concert For A Summer’s Eve 22 Connecting Conscious Creations Fashion Show 23 Modern Dance Workshop at MoonDance 23 Learn To Sail 24 Cowichan Bay Maritime Centre 24 Building The Bridge 25 Cowichan Men’s Centre 25 Paul Stamets on Salt Spring 26 Renovate With a Tint of Green 27 Green Living:Eco Friendly Bathroom 27 South Island Fishing Report 28 Permaculture: Solutions For An Uncertain Future 29 A Sampler Guide To Cycling The Cowichan 30 The Downtown Matraea Centre 31 Our Immune System Takes A Beating 32 Cowichan Valley Herbal Intensive 32 When The Journey Asks A Question 33 Helpful Garden 34 Website, Emals and Verbal Lint 34 TLC’s Be The Change 35 Green Hero: Craig Evans 35 Writer’s Voice 36 MoonBeams: Moon Pathways 36 Support Around the Passage of Dying Event 36 June Horoscopes by Georgia Nicols 37 Cowichan Valley Feature Listings 38 Visit us online at www.cowichanvalleyvoice.com

4

Community Calendar

June 2011

till June 25

Sandra Greenaway on Display Imagine That! Artisans Designs, 251 Craig St., Duncan

12 11am 2pm

Cowichan Therapeutic Riding Association Fun Fair Providence Farm, Duncan For info: 250 746 1028

1, 3, 10, 17, 24

Threshold Choir Meet To Sing at Lila Music Centre 3228A Gibbins Rd, Duncan 250 701 0978 10:30am - Noon

13 - 18

Photographer Kim Sigurdsen PORTALS Gallery 2687 James Street, Duncan

1, 8 & 15 7 - 9pm

Cowichan Valley Pet Loss Grief Support $25 250 710 7675 Sarah Donnelly info@sarahdonnelly.ca

15

Jon Day Exhibit Trio - from Montreal Duncan Garage Showroom, Duncan $15/ $12

5, 12, 19, 26 11 am - 5pm

Junction Artists’ Market - New Feature Artist Every Sunday Whippletree Junction

18

The Art of Spiritual Companioning - Deep Listening www.virtuesprojectkatemarsh.ca 250 246 9705

2, 9, 16, 23, 30

Thursday Night Jazz at Cow Bay Pub Cow Bay Pub, 1695 Cowichan Bay Road

15 6pm 8pm

Men’s Hormones and Health Dinner Class w Lorene Benoit White Spot Team Room, 250 748 6802 to register

3, 10, 17, 24 7pm

John Wade Trio (no cover) El Centro, 150 Craig St, Duncan, 250 597 0150

17 September

Fiddler On The Roof Opening Night Chemainus Theatre Festival 1 800 565 7738

6, 13, 20, 27 4:45pm

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

18 4:30pm

X-RAY Machine – Fund Raiser, BBQ and Auction Chemainus Seniors Drop-in Centre $15

2 7:30pm

Harp Music with Alicia Cundall by donation MoonDance Art House, Shawnigan Lake 250 743 5846

18 & 19 9am - 3pm

SPCA Dog Wash Buckerfields 5410 Trans Canada Hwy 250 618 3317

3 - 9pm

An Eclectic Journey by Margitta Ben-Oliel PORTALS Gallery 2687 James Street, Duncan

18 all day

Cowichan Bay Boat Festival / Fast & Furious Boat Building Cowichan Bay For info 250-746-4955

3 5pm

Timber Frame Dedication Ceremony Cowichan Bay Maritime Centre 250-746-4955

18 8pm

Victory in Advance Fundraising Dance/Silent Auction Cobble Hill Hall danceinadvance.wordpress.com $20

4 2 - 4pm

Closing Reception Points Gallery 225 Canada, Duncan

19 9am 3pm

Father’s Day Event - Activities, Food and Music hosted

by Cowichan Men’s Centre Downtown Duncan City Square

4 7pmish

Open Mic Song Writers Nite Dancing Bean Café, Chemainus Admission by donation

19

Father’s Day BBQ Buffet Brunch Merridale, Ciderworks 1230 Merridale Rd 250 743 4293

4 begins 6:30pm

Artist’s Reception Mario Peruzzo El Centro, 150 Craig St 250 597 0150

19 noon-

Time to Heal Treatment & Workshop Grand Opening Duncan Garage Upstairs 330 Duncan St FREE

4, 11, 18, 25 10am - 2pm

Honeymoon Bay Saturday Outdoor Market Coffee MIll, Honeymoon Bay Vendor Info 250 749 7233

19

Father’s Day Brunch or Special 3 Course Dinner Arbutus Ridge Golf Club, Cobble Hill 250 743 5000

5 10am 5pm

17th Annual Cowichan Valley Garden Tour 6 Local Gardens For ticket info 250-748-8281

20

8pm

East West - Experimental Jazz Show Duncan Garage Showroom, Duncan $20/$15

5 2pm

4th Annual GBC Family Fun Day at Arbutus Ridge $49 for Adults and Kids FREE Arbutus Ridge

21 6:30pm - 8:30pm

Playful Spaces Family Dance By Donation MoonDance Art House, Shawnigan Lake 250 743 5846

6 - 12 various

Lake Days Festival Cowichan Lake for more info: lcchamber@shaw.ca

21

5pm 7:30pm

Cowichan Green Community - AGM Duncan United Church 246 Ingram St. 250 748 8506

7 & 28

Modern Dance Workshop Jung-Ah Chung $20 MoonDance Art House, Shawnigan Lake 250 743 5846

23

Mid-Island Folk Guild regional finals Chapel at Providence Farm, Duncan 250 748 3975

9

Brave New Waves Duncan Garage Showroom, Duncan $15/ $12

24

Ladysmith Camera Club Bring Your Camera Night Hardwick Hall, 3rd Ave , Ladysmith $5 250 606 7011

10

The Electric Monk Duncan Garage Showroom, Duncan $15/ $12

25

Latin Fiesta, Dancing, Tapas and Drinks $10 El Centro, 150 Craig St 250 597 0150

10 7:30pm

Concert for a Summer’s Eve Admission is Free T.Gil Bunch Centre for Performing Arts 250 743 8756

Community Connections Around the Passage of Dying O.U.R Ecovillage, Shawnigan Lake 250 701 0978

11 begins 8am

64th Annual Community Flower and Garden Show Cobble Hill Hall, Watson Avenue, Cobble Hill

25 10am start 25

11 7pm

Cowichan Folk Guild Coffee House (last of the season!)

Duncan United Church, 246 Ingram 250 748 3975

26 11am - 3pm

Harmony for Hospice Damali Lavender Farm, Cobble Hill (250)743-6759 $5

11 starts 6:30pm

Connecting Conscious Creations Fashion Show El Centro, 150 Craig St 250 597 0150 $30 Dinner show

For The Love of Words with Bill Levity Duncan Garage Showroom, Duncan $5 for readers /$10

11 & 12

How Mushrooms Can Help Save the World Paul Stamets Foxglove Farms, Salt Spring Island 1 250 931 5336 $175

28 8pm 30 5:30pm

12 10am 3pm

Wheels in Motion. Wheel Chair Rugby Downtown Duncan City Square

30 - July 4

Visions Art Studio Tour FREE Self-Guided Artists’ Studios Tour www.visionsarttour.ca

6:30pm - 8pm

7pm

8pm

7pm 6pm start

& 7pm

10am - 5pm

“Why I Love Canada” Juried CVAC Show PORTALS Gallery 2687 James Street, Duncan

Fourth Thursday Dinner Buffet: “Taste of India” Honeymoon Bay Lodge and Retreat 250 749 4252

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

5

Where you use your wallet matters to our community.

Readers, please show your thanks to the following places for their part in producing this June 2011 issue of the Valley Voice.

Makaria Farm Merridale Ciderworks Lush Eco Lawns David Coulson Design Bistro 161 Kudos Japanese Restaurant The Community Farm Store Alderlea Farm and Cafe Chemainus Theatre Festival CSF Fisherman Guy Johnston Artist Margot Page teafarm Cowichan Valley Meat Market Amuse Bistro Cowichan Bay Seafood Organic Fair Farm and Garden Taste Cowichan Cowichan Men’s Centre Cowichan Valley Arts Council Abby Lane Farm Clean Choice Cleaning Services Cowichan Recyclists El Centro Cafe Honeymoon Bay Outdoor Market Chemainus Seniors Centre Island Rolfing, Brett Holland TCM Healthy Living, Dr. Fei Yang Cowichan Valley Artisans Mill Bay Flower & Garden Club Bruce’s Kitchen on Salt Spring Honeymoon Bay Lodge & Retreat Spinning Ninny Boutique Cowichan Bay Marine Pub MoonDance Dynamic Arts Lynda Allen Tap Studio Duncan Garage Showroom Soul Escape Esthetics Points Gallery g Earth Web Hosting and Domains Emerald Forest B&B, Tofino Small World Imports Describe Writing Services Island Child Magazine Cowichan Green Community Ukee Days Festival, Ucluelet

Warm Land Waterworks Nikki Designs Julia Star, Counsellor Slice of Life Cafe Glenterra Vineyards Sunflower Cafe Bucknucks Books Imagine That! Artisans Get Wired Electrical Services Norwex Cleaning Tracy Scheck Aromatherapy The Pottery Store In Chemainus Experience Cycling Ananda Ayurveda Bliss Yoga Margit Nellemann Ceramics Nature’s Sunshine Products Crofton Warm Stone Massage VISIONS Art Tour CV Lavender Labyrinth Island Indoor Air Quality Reiki Wellness Lorene Benoit Duncan Dynamics Gymnastics Club Salt Spring Soapworks Joy Story Cowichan Bay Maritime Centre Soul Comfort Sheepskin Cowichan Valley Hypnotheraphy Lori Austein Zuk Design Integral Connections Evergreen Independent School Station Street Healing Arts Cowichan Bay Kayak Chemainus Chamber of Commerce Duncan-Cowichan Chamber of Commerce Daniela Petosa Ceramics,Tofino Bill Wagg Sunday Meditation The Land Conservancy of BC The Thirsty Camel in Nanaimo Genoa Bay Cafe Ocean Outfitters in Tofino

Should you be on this list?

Community advertising enables us to share the best the Valley has to offer each month for FREE to over 20,000 loyal readers who pick it up from 250+ locations around the Cowichan Valley and beyond.

Contact the lovely Diana Pink for a Summer Rate Card by phone 250 733 2635 or by e-mail: diana@cowichanvalleyvoice.com 6

Cowichan Bay Maritime Centre invites the community to a

Historical Timber Frame Dedication Ceremony Friday June 3rd at 5pm

For more info please contact Suzan Lagrove at 250-746-4955

Chemainus Seniors

In June...

The Ecole Mill Bay Parent Advisory Council is holding Ecostravaganza!, a fun family celebration on World Environment Day, June 4th from 10am.to 4pm. This event will promote green living to the 25,000 families living in the Cowichan Valley. It will include a green marketplace, a children’s activity area (including eco carnival activities), a giant plant sale, eco-workshops, a live stage, a silent auction and a used book sale.

Ecole Mill Bay 3175 Cobble Hill Rd, Mill Bay. Be A Hometown Tourist Weekend, June 4 & 5. The event offers an opportunity to discover Ladysmith, Cassidy, Cedar, South Nanaimo, Saltair, Chemainus and the Cowichan Valley. Some of the activities planned are harbour boat tours, historic downtown walk, hike along the Holland Creek Trail with a naturalist, and two for one specials kayaking, golfing, and bungy zone. For more info visit www.take5.ca Saturday, June 11, Mill Bay Garden Club presents the 64th Annual Community Flower and Garden Show. This year’s easier-to-enter show is open to gardeners of all ages and experience. The show includes over 70 classes, including cut flowers, seedlings, potted plants, vegetables, herbs and flower arrangement. For the early birds, the show starts with a Rotary Pancake Breakfast at 8am., with the grounds opening at 9am.

The flower show exhibition will open at approximately 10am. This is one of the Mill Bay community’s highlights of the year; a place to show what we grow. Please come out and show your support at the Cobble Hill Hall, Watson Avenue, Cobble Hill.

The Cowichan Green Community host their Annual General Meeting on June 21 at the Duncan United Church, 5-7:30pm (doors open at 4:30) Guest Speaker will be Spring Gillard - Feeding Ourselves. 12 Things You Can Do to Strengthen the Food System in your Neighbourhood. Spring is a writer, communications consultant and food systems enthusiast. She blogs at compostdiaries.com.

Drop In Centre

BINGO

EVERY MONDAY!

4:45pm Doors / 6:40pm

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

June 11 •Doors 7pm $7 Incls Lunch!

Dance with The Esquires Everyone Welcome!

June 15 • 11:30 am – 12:45pm $4

SOUP & SANDWICH

Everyone welcome! Entertainment June 16 • 9am – 12pm FREE

BLOOD PRESSURE CLINIC June 18th • 4:30pm $15

X-RAY MACHINE Fund Raiser BBQ, Auctions and Entertainment June 23rd • 1pm –3pm

LIVING WELL, DRIVING LONGER June 25 •Doors 7pm $7 Incls Lunch!

Dance with Happy Hans Everyone Welcome!

9824 Willow Street, Chemainus 250 - 246 - 2111

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

7

The Cowichan Bay Boat Festival Story In 1986 the seeds of the Cowichan Bay Boat Festival began to sprout in the livestock barns of the Cobble Hill Farmer’s Institute Fairgrounds. Yes, the organizers got a lot of static.

“It’s a long way from the water!” Problem was, there was no place by the water to hold a boat show.

So it became a breeze and paddle-powered boat show.

Dozens of colourful craft lay beached on the dry Fairgrounds parched from being towed or car-topped from as far as Oregon and Sointula. There were dinghies, kayaks, dories and even a clear fibreglass dinghy mold that became the inspiration for a dinghy toss contest. The Hall was filled with nautical items, Ron Bell, the local sailmaker, and even a demonstration of knot tying.

It all happened again in 1987 but by then some boat-crazy people had gathered in Keith Sandiland’s tiny office at the Bluenose to establish a real boat show...on the water this time. Keith, Paul Mitchell, Rob Fox, Murray Sager, Terry Ashe, Tim Richardson and Tony Balding (the craziest guy who started the madness) all brought skills, ideas and offbeat humour. Others joined in and the whole salty gang came up with the daring concept of purchasing the almost derelict Chevron dock in the middle of the village.

So the seeds blew from an inland field to the seashore. Tim Richardson designed a glorious exhibit space which soon

8

Image Ernie Einarsson

Jazz with an oceanview No Cover 6pm - 9pm

looked as if it had been there forever. His sheltered pods were filled with artifacts and pictures displayed professionally by Murray Sager. Eventually there was a workshop, a display room and a gathering place. When Herb Rice began carving near the entrance a link was formed with First Nations who had paddled their canoes in Cowichan Bay. You can stand at the end of the pier and watch them racing today.

The inspiration for the Maritime Centre came from the Center for Wooden Boats on Lake Union in Seattle. ‘Betsy Ballast’ and Tony had towed their Wayfarer dinghy down several times for the July 4th boat show. It was a welcoming place centered on classic boatbuilding, restoration and even rentals of display craft. Several of the founders made forays to boat meccas on the eastern seaboard and brought back ideas which were eventually built into our Maritime Centre.

Tony gets a kick when he hears enthusiastic pounding coming from the kids who are busy

building their dream boats not far from where his boat is moored for the boatbuilding event. It brings back memories of his trips to Seattle Wooden Boat Center in the early 1980’s from where the very first seeds of the Cowichan Bay Maritime Centre were transplanted. It’s hard to imagine how an idea can grow into a lively centre of maritime activity where only an empty building and a derelict old pier once stood.

Tony Balding

Every Thursday night the Bay Pub hosts great live jazz. Experience the soaring notes of Dev Bailey on sax, Eric Smith on keyboard, backed by the Jarvie/ Robertson drum, string bass powerhouse rhythm section. The Dev Bailey Quartet play Latin, swing, and American songbook standards. Dev, John, Nick and Geoff are the regular players but sometimes the audience get treated to guest players or vocalists sitting in for a few tunes.

You never know who is visiting the area!

Thursday Nights in Cowichan Bay

Cow Bay Marine Pub 1695 Cowichan Bay Road 250-748-2330

Spot Prawn and Asparagus Fritter Recipe courtesy Chef Matt Horn, Cowichan Pasta

Method

Ingredients

Amount

1. Peel and pull heads off prawns. Cut tail meat into thirds.

Head on Prawns Chopped green onions Chopped garlic Salt and pepper Chilli flakes Small diced red pepper Small diced red onion Chopped Asparagus Milk Baking powder Eggs Lemon juice Flour

1 Pound ¼ Cup 1 Teaspoon 1 Teaspoon ½ Teaspoon 2 Ounces 2 Ounces 4 Ounces ¾ Cup 2 Teaspoons 3 1 Tablespoon 1¾Cup

2. In a medium size bowl combine flour, baking powder, asparagus, red onion, red pepper, chili flakes, salt, pepper, garlic and green onions. Mix well.

3. In a small bowl combine lemon juice, eggs and milk. Mix well and combine with dry ingredients above. This should make a loose batter.

4. Form batter into golf sized balls.

5. Using a deep fryer or candy thermometer heat 2” of canola oil to 350F and fry balls till golden brown appproximately 2-3 minutes.

Looking for best value seafood, from responsible and ethical merchants dealing in sustainable seafood and shellfish?

Open 10 am to 5:30 pm 7 Days A Week

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

Discover the Flavours of Cowichan WHAT you buy, just WHERE you buy it.

Changing spending habits by 10% can make a huge impact on our community’s economic, environmental and spiritual sustainability. Shop LOCAL Cowichan - create a better place to shop AND live!

There’s no need to change

Patricia MacGregor is a local graphic & webdesigner www.zukdesign.ca

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

9

Fresh from the Cowichan!

T

his June marks the launch of Cowichan Green Community’s (CGC) second edition of the Buy Local!

Buy Fresh! Cowichan Food Map. To the delight of the valley’s food producers, and those consumers searching for fresher, healthier, and more environmentally friendly groceries, CGC is thrilled to announce even more farms have been added to this year’s map.

Building on the success of the 2010 map, which saw 10,000 copies distributed Cowichan Valley-wide and beyond, this year’s edition continues to represent the most comprehensive directory

available for local food in the valley to date. From Cedar all the way down to Shawnigan Lake, the 2011 Buy Local!

Buy Fresh! Cowichan Food Map lists 80 producers selling everything from Dungeness crab and sunchokes, to value-added products like ancient-method balsamic vinegar and pickled beets.

Many of last year’s farms are listed, and the directory also includes several new producers, some of whom are farming commercially for their first season. [See Sidebar] The map also directs people to interesting agritourism events, and unique value-added food products not found anywhere else.

Crazy Dog Farm in Crofton Kelly Grainger wanted to be a farmer since she was a young girl.

The opportunity to acquire some land in Crofton came her way not that long ago. Knowing that farming takes a few years to build up, she started with dog boarding in order to supplement her food-growing passions. 2011 is the first year she is selling her Certified Naturally Grown produce. “I am devoting my farm entirely to veggie gardens,” she explains. Along with the other usual market garden suspects, she offers over 14 heritage varieties of tomatoes. Her farm gate stand open in early June, and she is taking subscriptions for her fledgling CSA (Community Supported Agriculture) produce bags.

Kelly is excited to be part of this year’s Buy Local! Buy Fresh!

Cowichan Food Map. “We can’t do enough of promoting local food – it’s so important.”

For Evelyn Pereira of Terra Nossa Family Farm, who is listing her certified organic poultry, pork and berry operation on the map for the second year, the Buy Local!

Buy Fresh! Cowichan Food Map has let her reach new customers, as well as provide a resource for referrals.

“Many of my customers are looking for other locally grown products. With the map, I am able to send them on to different farms.”

To contact Kelly, visit her website www.crazydogfarm.com.

The 2011 Buy Local! Buy

Dorothy Heath

Fresh! Cowichan Food Map is one of the many signature initiatives of the Green Community, which helps promote their broader sustainability mandate. For a taste of what’s fresh in your backyard this growing season, come by 181 Station St. to pick up a copy of the latest map. A strong local food system is created by buying locally!

Heather Kaye works as Food Security Coordinator for the Cowichan Green Community.

She enjoys tending her garden or hiking the trails with her family on Maple Mountain where they are lucky enough to live.

Veronica Carpenter DSHM,HD(RHom) Denise McLean

Reiki, Acupressure, Leafpool Homeopathy Energetic Healing Practitioner Massage,Hypnotherapy, Special Offer $15 consultations (20-30 min.)

Combining Reiki, Aromatherapy,Crystals, Astrology, Music & Art 250-246-1611 Flower Essences, Sound Healing & 250-709-1852 Card Readings 250-732-0247 Chair Massage & Art Viewing Mon. - Thur. 11am to 2pm Reiki Tuesdays 2-5pm all / 7-9pm 2nd & 4th

10

Opening

Celebrating Sustainable Food The Lowdown on Certified Organic

M

any shoppers ponder the difference between organic and certified organic labels. There is a big difference between the two: certified organic requires considerable expense and effort on the part of certified farmers and producers.

As a biodynamic certified organic farmer, I can vouch for the enormous certification process I go through each year, even though there is no legislation in BC that says I need to be certified organic to use the word organic. My produce is far more than pesticide/herbicide/chemicalfertilizer free. My foremost concern is to maintain and build the soil, increasing its fertility. I am forbidden from

using many products that other organic farmers may use. Our compost is strictly monitored to avoid pathogens and cross contamination. We receive annual audits of our records to make sure we are doing what we say, including using healthy packaging and sanitary practices.

A Certified Organic Associations of BC (COABC) Verifier comes to our farm each year and inspects all our fields, barns, and greenhouses. They also look through our records and invoices to make sure everything is on par. It takes several hours out of a busy schedule, but we are committed to meeting the high standards.

At Alderlea Farm and Cafe, we choose to be certified organic because we know it is important to support the larger organic industry and or-

What other local farmers have to say about their decision to be certified organic Certification assures the public that your farm has met the requirements of organic regulations by having yearly inspections from a qualified organic inspector. Any farm can say they are organic, Certified Organic is the Gold Standard.

Evelyn Pereira, Terra Nossa Farm Our mission is to offer the highest quality blueberries to our loyal customers. Our certified organic status provides the assurance that in addition to being delicious, our berries have been raised in a healthy natural setting free of harmful chemicals.

Jim Stachow, Blue Harvest Farm

ganizations working together to slowly change our food system. Producers and farmers who share the certification are dedicated to growing healthy products, distinct from possibly genetically altered non-certified organic foods. Certified organic seed, grains, and oils are up to 4 times more costly because its production requires higher standards, and generally, there is less of it available.

The Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) shareholders at Alderlea Farm make this commitment to local, certified organic/biodynamic agriculture possible. We are fortunate to live in the Cowichan Valley where growing the healthiest food possible in the most sustainable manner is possible. * Certified organic producers in the Cowichan Valley: Alderlea Farm and CafĂŠ, Terra Nossa Farms, Cowichan Valley Farms, Red Nettle Farm, Blue Harvest Farms, and Glen Eden Farms. * Another farm certifier is the Island Organic Producers Association (IOPA)

Farmer John Ehrlich operates Alderlea Farm and Cafe with his wife Katy.. He loves farming and cows. (image above)

Join us for Early Dinner specials Monday to Thursday

BISTRO

161 Kenneth Street, Duncan Reservations 250.746.6466

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

11

hOMe Grown Living Foods

N

estled deep in the forest near beautiful Lake Cowichan, there is a quiet food revolution sprouting. Shani Cranston, Willy McBride, and a small tribe of nature-loving souls are working hard to provide sprouted, raw, vegan, gluten free sustainable snacks to the masses. hOMe grown Living Foods were first introduced to surfing yogis on Milagro Retreats, with the intention of providing guests with prana infused whole foods to fuel their transformative journeys. Pure intentions and positive vibrations were the primary ingredients in these treats and before long an entire line of deliciously nutritious products emerged, delighting conscious consumers and health-food lovers all over Canada.

The emphasis is on nourishment, and at hOMe, we believe that food is medicine.

Soaking nuts and seeds releases enzyme inhibitors, making the nutrients in our products more bio-available to the body.

Food should provide energy, not deplete it, and HG Living Foods are a great way to introduce essential vitamins, minerals

12

and important phytonutrients to the system.

These organic, nutrient rich, healing foods are made without refined sugars, helping support a balanced body and mind.

Only the freshest local and organic ingredients are used in our products and we continually strive to decrease HG’s carbon footprint. Currently we are reformulated our Goji-Almond-Cacao Livies to include locally grown apples, instead of relying on organic bananas shipped from distant lands. Many of the ingredients utilized in our recipes are in fact hOMegrown. In the summertime, our garden brims with fresh greens, vegetables, and herbs. All production happens in our newly renovated certified kitchen and everything is made in small batches, ensuring high-quality food infused with gratitude and love.

Visit us at the Saturday Duncan Farmer’s Market to taste our latest seasonally inspired creations.

We are overjoyed to provide these wholesome,delicious snacks to the wonderful customers at the Community Farm

Shani enjoying the Harvest

Store and hope to contribute to planetary healing while nourishing you toward radiant health.

Keep the Vibe Alive!!! www.hOMegrownlivingfoods.ca.

Carianne Smogor has been a part of the Milagro Retreats Tribe since 2008, promoting simple, soulful living and fueling the organic revolution

Available at the Community Farm Store Almond Rosemary RAWgles ~ Savory Living Bagels ~ The best thing since sliced bread!

Apple Walnut RAWgles ~ Sweet Living Bagels ~ Loaded with Omega 3’s Magnesium, vitamin E and flavonoids Goji Almond Cacao Livies ~ Decadent dessert meets energy bar! Dense, chewy chocolate orbs that will fuel your body with wholesome energy and satisfy sweet cravings.

MACAroonies ~ Chewy heavenly blend of coconut, almond, orange and MACA. Kids go loony for MACAroonies!

Goji Hemp Buckwheaties ~ Cereal clusters brimming with flavanoids, magnesium and blood sugar stabilizers- now with sprouted chia, flax meal and naturally sweetened with dates & apples

Here at the Farm Store, we’ve been selling the Raw goodies from hOMe grown since the beginning. We can barely keep them on the shelf! The call for healthy, raw, organic snacks are more popular now than ever as people realize they can snack on something that tastes good, makes them feel good, gives them energy AND is supporting another great local business!

Cindy Dreger

ON NOW Gigantic Renovation Sale at Ten Old Books. Prices reduced weekly.Great time to stock up on summer reading.

STAFF PICK FOR THE MONTH OF JUNE! Barlean’s Organic Oils

We all agree that the product of the month is the Barlean Omega Oils. This company has impressed us in every way and the products are excellent. Omega Swirls are packed with Omega-3 fatty acids with the taste and texture of a fruit smoothie! No more oily taste or having to swallow large capsules. Rich in Omega-3 fatty acids, the Omega Swirl flax and fish oil supplements are by far the freshest, best-tasting and most nutritious Omega-3 products, naturally. Perfect solution for the whole family – our kids love it!

Packed with essential Omega-3s, Omega Swirl was created to nutritionally support: ·Heart Health ·Cholesterol Levels Already Within a Healthy Range ·Joint Mobility and Bone Density ·Energy and Endurance* ·Skin, Hair and Nail Health ·Mental Health, Wellness and Acuity · Blood Glucose Levels Already Within a Healthy Range · Sexual and Hormonal Health The current interest in flax seed oil for health might seem new but in actuality, the medicinal properties of flax seed oil were recognized by Hippocrates in ancient Greece.

In fact, by the 8th century Charlemagne, the Roman emperor, ruled that every citizen of the Roman empire had to consume flax seed every day to maintain health. What was recognized thousands

of years ago was forgotten till 1929 when researchers at the University of Minnesota discovered fats are required to sustain life.

SPECIAL OFFER

For the month of June only – we are offering an extra 20% off all the Barlean Omega Swirls. The catch for getting the extra deal is that you must tell us you saw the ad in the Valley Voice. (We were going to offer a coupon but we didn’t like the idea of you having to cut up this lovely magazine!).

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

13

BBQ Chicken Recipe Dad Will Love

By Chef Kevin Macdonald of Honeymoon Bay Lodge and Retreat

Ingredients

Amount

Chicken Pieces Crushed Garlic

Freshyly Grated Ginger Soy Sauce Orange Juice Chili Flakes Brown Sugar Grated Orange Zest White Onion

8-10 pieces 6 Cloves 2 Tablespoons 1 1/2 Cups 2 Cups 1 Teaspoon 1/2 Cup 2 Teaspoons 1/2, finely diced

Method:

Watch for the grand opening of Makaria Farm’s convenient 7 day/week farm stand in July!

www.makariafarm.com The Chemainus Wednesday Market 11am to 4:30pm • EVERY WEDNESDAY

Waterwheel Park

Make It, Bake It, or Grow It.

From June 1-September 7

• crafts • home baking • fresh produce and much more!

Come spend a fun day exploring Chemainus!

Contact Chamber of Commerce: 250-246-3944 for more information

14

1.Combine all ingredients in a large bowl and pour over chicken pieces. to cover entirely.

2. Marinate in the fridge covered with Saran wrap for 2 - 6 hours or even overnight.

3. Discard liquid after marinating.

4. Preheat BBQ to 325 F or for about 15 minutes.

5. To check when grill is ready - hold your hand over heat. If you cannot hold it there for more than 5 seconds, it’s ready.

6. Keeping in consideration how much sugar is in the marinade, grill pieces on a low to moderate flame turning about every 3 - 5 minutes.

7.Cook for about 20 - 25 minutes. For crisper skin, turn flame up to medium at the end, but Kevin McDonald loves watch closely. the local farms and 5. Serve with easy baked fresh vegetables in the potatoes and ceasar salad.

Cowichan Valley.

Dad will love it!

T

u i s g

S

On The Farm

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

T

here are many fresh foods that I didn’t know existed until we started our farm, including radish seed pods, stinging nettles, kale buds and garlic scapes.

So far this spring we’ve dined

on steamed shoots from overwintered kale (they taste like broccoli!) and nettles sautéed in butter or pureed into soup.

Now with June comes scape season. Over the next month our fall-planted garlic will send up tender stalks that will (if you let them) harden and grow seed heads. We prefer to encourage our garlic to put its energy into producing a big bulb rather than seeds, so we

snap off these scapes once they’re about a foot long.

Still tender, lightly sautéed scapes taste like asparagus with a mildly-garlic flavour.

Other popular recipes shared by our market customers and CSA subscribers include garlic scape pesto, scape butter, and roasted vegetables with scapes cut into bite-sized pieces.

Scapes also freeze well, even unblanched. This winter we sautéed scapes as a side dish, and they provided welcome green colour (and garlicky flavour) to our meals.

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

June 3, 10, 17, 24 • 6pm start

John Wade & The Night Shade Trio El Centro House Band no cover

June 4, 11, 18, 25 • 11am start

Organic Brunch with Live Jazz John Wade and Special Guests no cover

June 4 • 6pm start

Mario Peruzzo Artist Reception

June 11th • 6:30 pm start $30

Connecting Conscious Creations Fashion Show

Tickets includes three course meal June 18 • 8pm no cover

Open Mic Spoken Word Night June 20 -24 •Summer menu launch

Celebrate Summer Solstice!

June 24 • 9:30pm onwards

Summer Solstice Late Night June 25 • 8 pm start $10

Latin Fiesta! with tapas, drinks and dancing Garlic scapes are 150 Craig St Duncan 250. 597. 0150 readily available at w w w. e l c e n t r o c a f e . c o m farmers’ markets, farm stands, gardens sure to fill your fridge and and some grocery stores. But freezer this month! scape season is short, so be

Bento Box Lunch Special Tuesday to Friday 3 kinds - $4.99

9875 Maple Street, Chemainus 250-746-1046

New vendors welcome Call Bob 250-749-7233 or 250-510-1113

For full design/build service, give us a call

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





15

Vanilla Rhubarb Pound Cake

Recipe excerpt courtesy of islandchef.ca, Zoe O’Doherty Executive Chef of La Piola Restaurant, Victoria BC For the complete article, visit www.islandchef.ca/2011/05/down-home-rhubarb/ Rhubarb’s charm is in is it’s down home personality. Commercial production is limited, and although you can find it for sale at your local farmer’s market, for the most part if you want to enjoy your Grandma’s rhubarb crumble recipe you must have a plant in your back yard.

This is a simple recipe, but it’s very important that all of the ingredients to be at room temperature. Take your butter and eggs out of the fridge an hour or two before you’re ready to bake. You can use an instant read thermometer to test the temperature of your butter to ensure it is at the right temperature 20-23 degrees Celsius is just right.

Ingredients

Cake flour or all-purpose flour Butter, unsalted Granulated sugar Large Eggs, room temperature Vanilla Beans Scraped or Pure Vanilla Extract Poached Rhubarb (see below)

Amount

1 3/4 Cups 1 Cup 1 1/2 Cups 5 2 1 1/2 Teaspoons 3/4 Cups

Method

Preheat oven to 325°F. 1.Grease a standard metal loaf pan (9x5x3) with butter and lightly dust with flour.

2. Place butter in the bowl of an electric mixer with the paddle attachment and cream the butter for 30 seconds. Gradually add the sugar, and beat for about 5 minutes, until the mixture is white and fluffy.

3. Add the eggs one at a time, scraping down the bowl after each egg. Mix until smooth. (If your batter looks broken at this point the butter or eggs may be too cold. Wet a tea towel with hot water and hold it against the bottom of the mixing bowl to warm the batter. Add the vanilla, beat 10 more seconds.

4. Add the salt to the flour and stir to evenly distribute the salt. If you are using cake flour, make sure to sift the flour. If you are using all-purpose, sifting is optional.

5. Add the flour to the batter in three equal parts, scraping the bottom of the bowl with a rubber spatula after each addition. Mix just until all of the flour has been incorporated.

7. Fold in the poached rhubarb by hand.

8. Scrape the batter into the prepared pan and level off the top with your spatula.

Bake for 60-70 minutes, rotating once.

Test the cake with a wooden skewer inserted into the center. It’s done when the skewer comes out clean.

Poached Rhubarb You will need 2 large or 3 medium stalks of fresh rhubarb, 1 cup of water and 1 cup of sugar.

1. Trim off the leaves and bottom of the stalks. Wash. Cut down the length of the stalk, and then into 2 cm dice.

3. Combine sugar and water in a medium saucepan and stir dissolve sugar over medium heat.

4. When the sugar syrup is just starting to boil add chopped rhubarb and allow the syrup to return to a gentle simmer but not a full boil.

Do not stir.

5. After 3-5 minutes test a piece of rhubarb. It should be cooked through but still firm, not mushy.

6. Remove the rhubarb from the syrup with a slotted spoon. Spread the rhubarb on a baking sheet to cool. Rhubarb must be at room temperature before adding to the cake batter. *If you like, you can save the sugar syrup and reuse it for up to ten days. If you do a few batches, it will pick up a nice rhubarb flavor you can use it in a fruit salad or to make a yummy pink lemonade.

16

Passionate About Edible Gardens

A

s a child growing up with a vegetable garden, it always meant one thing...work. It took time away from…play. As an adult in a vegetable garden, we can incorporate...play. Edible gardens can be seen as a sacred place where we go to, to be revived, they can be a source of pleasure and healing to our own weary souls and those that visit us.

Our gardens can be the place we escape the stresses of life, a designed space to step into and forget about traffic, work, deadlines or the next task that needs our attention. A well designed garden can be more than a place to produce food. It can represent our philosophy of living in harmony with nature, season by season. With geometric patterns, you can create year round visual appeal or you can incorporate

perennial and herb plantings in and amongst the annual plantings giving life to the garden all year round.

When designing an edible garden consider what you love to do and create a space for that. For example in my own garden I have a 10’ x 10’ yoga platform with a removable roof where I can stretch, sleep or sit and sort seeds. Another garden friend has his own lawn bowling green.

If you have children, consider a space with grass under a fruit tree or a snack track to grow their favourite fruits and veggies. The possibilities are limited only by our imaginations.

Joy Story, offers an on-site consultation of 1 ½ hours for $50.00. growfood@ shaw.ca or (250)743-1352.

Foxglove Community Gardens

Chemainus Senior’s Drop-In Centre 9824 Willow Street For info 250 246 2111

s

n

r

X-RAY Machine BBQ Fund Raiser June 18 $15 begins at 4:30pm

F

oxglove Community Gardens is a beautiful place where seniors and youth come together to work on a common goal. Growing vegetables, flowers and herbs to nourish both the body and the soul. 12 years ago Nancy Mobey and her business partner Burt Nydahl started Oceanview Retirement Village on 8 acres of land in Crofton.

Their vision enables young people from the surrounding schools, apartments and city access to a garden and opportunity for meaningful activity along with the Seniors. “I love gardens and have started many in nursing homes in California. Here was no exception. One day on a visit to Providence Farm my friend and I decided we should form a community garden on part of our land, thus Foxglove Community Gardens were

started. Then two years ago when the produce was more than anyone wanted, we started the cooking school!

The two just seemed to go together.” says Nancy.

The Chemainus Senior’s Drop-in Centre are having a fundraiser on June 18th to help fund the Chemainus Health Care Centre’s new x-ray machine. There will be chicken and beef burgers on the barbeque, a fabulous silent AND live auction, and

will feature live entertainment from Diamond Joe White, Virginia & Larry Blatchford, and Mitch and the Barroness.

The campaign has raised well over $100.000 and the total cost for the much needed Xray machine is $237.000. Service clubs, local merchants, churches, residents and self sustaining organizations such as the Chemainus Senior’s Centre have all become involved in the community fundraising campaign.

Tickets are available now from the centre. We hope to see you there!

The next scheduled cooking class is on Sunday June 5th. The “Art of Chinese Cuisine” with Li Ping. Li will teach participants how to prepare authentic foods using recipes handed down for generations, but will adapt the recipes to utilize our local ingredients.

All classes are limited to 12 students so sign up early by calling Nancy at 250 246 4967 or email:

info@foxglovecommunitygardens.org

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

17

Cowichan Aboriginal Art Prize

Dan Deschamps, Dreamcatcher

T

he CAAP is a unique opportunity for contemporary emerging aboriginal artists in the Cowichan Valley to access commercial exhibition space and develop their art career. CAAP will help artists build up their portfolios by providing mentorship and dynamic solo and group exhibition opportunities.

The inaugural show is scheduled for August 15, 2011 at PORTALS – The CVAC Centre of Arts, Heritage and Culture in Duncan, B.C. Suzan Kostiuck, a First Nations artist, is curating this event.

Kostiuck has a B.FA from the

18

University of Victoria and has volunteered with arts organizations, worked in local galleries and is currently the arts administrator at the Cowichan Valley Arts Council as an intern.

Inspired by Victoria Emerging Arts Awards, (www.victoriaemerginart.com/Veaa. html) and realizing the need for First Nations artists to be recognized for their contemporary visual narratives in Canada, CAAP will showcase 5 aboriginal artists that have been selected by a wellrounded jury from Southern Vancouver Island.

For one night only, each show piece is priced at $300. After the opening, all remaining artwork will be priced at $500 per piece. The people who attend the award show will vote on the People’s Choice Award and the winner will receive a $500 cash prize. All 5 finalists will have earned one year of representation by Victoria Emerging Art Gallery (VEAG), in Victoria, B.C. (www.victoriaemergingart. com).

Heartwood Studio Woodturning/Woodwork 5846 Curry Road, Duncan 250-746-5480 www.heartwoodstudio.ca

The pastoral beauty of the Cowichan Valley and the rugged wilderness of British Columbia inspire all of my paintings. My goal is to manipulate shape and shadow using vibrant colours in order to create a unique but genuine perspective.

Come and enjoy!

Carol Borrett Watercolours and Acrylic

1162 Maple Bay Road Duncan 250-748-5224 www.westcoastwatercolour.com Carol paints in both watercolour and acrylic.

Her realistic paintings reveal her fascination with water, boats and reflections. They capture the many varied moods of the coastal area and way of life. Carol paints out of her home studio in Maple Bay. The studio is open year round.

Call ahead to avoid disappointment.

Michele Heath Silversmith 4373 Kingscote Road, Cowichan Bay 250-743-3769 www.micheleheath.ca Michele makes one-ofa-kind sterling silver jewellery. Each piece is individually designed and constructed so that its owner can feel the pride of wearing something truly original and unique.

Her work is often inspired by natural themes and frequently incorporates stones that she shapes and polishes herself. Commissions are welcome.

Eve Whitehead Weaver

Terry Harrison Glass and Fabric

Rene Deerheart Painter

1560 Joan Avenue Crofton 250 246 4222 croftonb@telus.net

1213 Royalta Rd Mill Bay 250-743-3862 harrisonglassart@shaw.ca

5412 Gore-Langton Rd Duncan 250 748-2067 www.members.shaw. ca/catherinefraserart

Terry paints enchanting flowers on wine glasses, plates, mugs, jugs and tiles. All the painted glass is dishwasher-safe. Her “wearable art” features flowers painted on suits, shirts, hats, aprons and table linens, and they’re all washable/dryable. www. members.shaw.ca/harrison glassart

Rene is a Certified Teacher and jeweller incorporating Precious Metal Clay® as well Copprclay®, & Bronzclay® in her work. She also uses sterling silver, copper, and Argentium®. Her style is exemplified in a number of lines: Bold high-end art pendants on cords of Japanese Obi fabrics, artist-made Viking Knit chain, & the light-hearted scrappy textile cuffs & fascinators called “iRRational thReads.”

Eve Whitehead is a local weaver, fusing art & function in a variety of colourful and affordable hand woven lovely’s including scarves, shawls, placemats table runners, hand towels, facecloths and many other practical items.Visit her studio in the charming sea side village of Crofton located on the shores of Osborne Bay,10 minutes northeast of Duncan.

Donna Birtwistle Acrylics & Water Colours 2423 Mill Bay Road Mill Bay BC 250-743-2758 Donna paints in acrylic, water colour pencils and paints. The pencils gives her the detail that expresses the nature in the wildlife images. She enjoys her Mill Bay home to view the West Coast nature that many people don’t even notice. She works with her art in her home studio. Please contact for a viewing any time of year.

Clare Carver Silk Artist 1840 Koksilah Rd, Cowichan Bay 250 597 4506 www.pillotalk.ca Pillotalk Studio offers silk paintings in the form of pillows, small pillows, scarves, cushions, wall hangings, small bags and eyeglass cases. Studio open by appointment or by chance.

Showcase Artists

O

nce again, Visions artists and artisans invite you to visit and shop at their studios during this five-day free tour from June 30 until July 4, 10 a.m. to 5 p.m.

There are 11 artists’ studios open to welcome you, and three guests, for a total of 14 talented Visions members on hand to show their work, demonstrate their art, and introduce you to the settings that inspire them to create their art. The tour takes you through the enchanting Cowichan Valley, to charming rural properties and gardens, impressive oceanfront locales and country roads you’ve never before seen and will never forget. All of these artists’ studios are open year round, some by appointment, but during the Studio Tour, all Visions artists taking part in the tour have their studios open at the same time to present their newest works. You can be among the first to view, enjoy, browse, and shop.

Free year round brochures and maps are available from Visions artists, libraries, community centres, visitors’ centres, and other locations, as well as on the Visions website www.visionsarttour.ca.

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

19

craft

Kimonos on Display

S

andra Greenaway’s creations are a blend of contemporary and vintage fabrics, piecing techniques, an artful eye and couture sewing.

She is inspired by traditional Japanese kimono design to create garments with elements of that tradition - simple lines, quilting, piecing of fabrics, and creative use of colour and texture. Sandra has an Arts degree and trained in apparel design, pattern drafting and tailoring at the University of Manitoba.

The kimono is the national clothing of Japan. Kimono styles have changed significantly from one period of Japan’s history to another.

Traditionally the cut, color, fabric, and decorations of a kimono may vary according to the sex, age, and marital status of the wearer, the season of the year, and the occasion for which the kimono is worn.

The kimono continues to evolve and is the foundation for many modern fashions and art-to-wear.

It is the fabric- its beautiful colours, exotic motifs and quality of weave - that first attracted Westerners to Japanese garments. Clothing as an art form is more relevant today than ever. With the availability of mass-produced products in the world, we long for things unique and personal.

Sandra has adapted the “yukata” summer kimono pattern to suit Western needs and lifestyles, adding a pocket, belt carriers and sash. Each kimono is one-of-a-kind, individually made from fabrics that make you feel special.

Because it is easy to wear and of high comfort, you can wear it anywhere you like, going out, at home and for travel.

Sandra’s kimono are available at Imagine That and will be on display till June 25th.

Sandra Greenaway Showing at Imagine That!

251 Craig Street, Duncan On display till June 25th

I recently met with a group of fellow furniture designermakers to discuss the question “what is West Coast Design?” We wanted to determine if there was indeed a style that was recognizable, and to identify its characteristics. One of the main themes that we kept coming back to was the materials we have to work with on the West Coast.

Our environment provides an embarrassment of riches with which to craft objects, so much so that the materials themselves often become the central focus of many maker’s work. I’ve lived on the Coast my whole life so I tend to take the material for granted at times. That’s not to say that I don’t appreciate the material, just that it’s available, plentiful, and has many great properties.

At this time of year, with all the deciduous trees leafing out I can’t help but be especially aware of what we have right here in the Valley. The most common commercially harvested are fir, hemlock, and red cedar, which most people are familiar with. These species have some unique properties which are highly sought after. We are also fortunate to have Bigleaf Maple, the largest maple in Canada. This tree can produce beautiful lumber, often with a lot of figuring. Figuring is a particularly lively pattern or figure that is due mainly to deviations in wood grain. Certain types of figured western maple are prized by instrument makers around the world. It is also one of the most common local materials used by furniture makers and wood turners.

Less common but highly desirable are garry oak, arbutus and western yew. These are not commercially harvested species and are only available sporadically (you have to know a guy who knows a guy...). Unfortunately, they are sometimes cut for urban development and often end up as firewood. It’s much better when they end up in the hands of sawyers or woodworkers who use this limited resource to craft objects of utility and beauty. If you’d like to see the process of turning giant oak logs into lumber, please check out the most recent blog post on my website at gelinascarr. com

www.cowichanvalleyartisans.com CVA Brochures available at Excellent Frameworks and Experience Cycling in Duncan.

Sandra designs and builds one of a kind furniture with her partner Joe. gelinascarr.com

20

Image Heather Walker

Tani Hamagishi-Allen Opening Show at Points Gallery Canada Avenue, Duncan tani.carbonmade.com

Talking Arts • Tani Hamagishi-Allen

T

ani Hamagishi-Allen began the Porcelain Dolls series in 2008 and has since exhibited the work in Vancouver, Victoria and throughout mid-Vancouver Island. This body of work compositionally uses both

collage and illustrative elements. The repetition of such addresses the awareness of an obsessive tendency she finds within herself: admiration for simplicity.

She speaks of her artistic process in terms of self

assigned confines from which to create multiples not duplicates. “Recently, I have found myself most interested in working with some of the repeated illustrative shapes found in the Porcelain Dolls series. In my latest works, I have abandoned much of the collage aspects from the original series in favour of a more fundamental approach.

I have been strictly creating illustrations on unfinished wood panel using graphite and chalk.” Hamagishi-Allen especially enjoys the effects that form and colour have.

When composing her pieces she simplifies collage down to “coloured shapes” and builds both the surface and the image around that. In doing so, she attempts to disguise their origins by altering their context and usefulness.

Hamagishi-Allen’s work is exhibited at the downtown Nanaimo Art Gallery and Points Art Gallery in Duncan.

She works from her home studio in Victoria and maintains an online portfolio.

For more information on her work visit www.tani.carbonmade.com

Specializing in one-of-a-kind pottery, unique tiles, and contemporary clay sculpture, Daniela can be found creating and selling her wares in Tofino. Available for teaching workshop retreats and private classes. Drop-in for a visit to her studio nestled in the lush coastal rainforest.

functional & sculptural ceramics • Tofino

for studio appointments • www.danielapetosa.com • ceramics@danielapetosa.com • 250 266 0056 Valley Voice Magazine. For people who love to eat, live, play and shop in the Cowichan Valley.

21

Music is Bustin’ Out All Over Island Folk Guild Update

T

he Islands Song Contest is now on! Open to all residents of Vancouver Island and the Gulf Islands.

You could win great prizes and a chance to play live at the Islands Folk Festival.

On Friday, June 24th, we are holding the mid-Island regional finals for the contest in the Chapel at Providence Farm, followed by a concert

I

nstrumental and vocal highlights of the Brentwood College School Music Programme will

22

featuring Ryan McMahon.

Mark your calendars! Come vote for your favourite song.

Full contest regulations and entry forms are available on our website at www.folkfest. bc.ca.

The 27th Annual Islands Folk Festival takes place July 22nd, 23rd, 24th on the beautiful grounds of Providence Farm, near Duncan. Three days of music with over 150 musicians on six stages. The annual event be showcased at the annual Concert for a Summer’s Eve at the T.Gil Bunch Centre for Performing Arts on Brentwood College School campus in Mill Bay.

draws thousands of festival goers to the Cowichan Valley each summer. This year, we are introducing special “Festival Patron” tickets.

Festival patrons can enjoy full access to meals in the main dining room, backstage passes, indoor washrooms, a free T-shirt and much more.

Visit www.folkfest.bc.ca for more details.

The final Folk Guild Coffee House of the season will be From Bach to Bachman, selections for this very popular event will be across the musical spectrum.

The evening will feature soloists, small groups and performances by our pops orchestra and jazz band, just back from MusicFest Canada Nationals, the award winning concert choir, the senior rock band, vocal jazz ensemble and guitar ensemble. There is no admission charge, but to guarantee a seat, please book

held Saturday June 11th at Duncan United Church. All performers welcome for open stage for the first half.

Doors open at 7 pm Admission: Folk Guild members by donation; nonmembers: $7 No charge for open-stage performers.

Robert McCourty is Artistic Director of the Cowichan Folk Guild and Islands Folk Festival

on line at tgb.brentwood.bc.ca or phone the box office at 250 743 8756.

Concert for a Summer’s Eve June 10 7:30pm FREE T.Gil Bunch Centre for Performing Arts 2735 Mount Baker Rd Mill Bay Box office 250 743-8756

Connecting Conscious Creations Fashion Show June 11th- 6:30 pm start $30 Ticket includes meal El Centro Cafe 150 Craig St., Duncan 250 701 0978 jenn16_@hotmail.com

The Cowichan Valley is host to many designers and craftmen who are using their skill and vision to construct garments and accessories that are not only beautiful, but do not have a negative effect on the environment.

On June 11th El Centro Cafe + Tasting Room will be showcasing some of these local designers during their first fashion show.

“Connecting Conscious Creations” will be a entertainment and shopping experience where guests can purchase garments from featured designers. It will also

raise awareness of how we are connected to the planet through the clothing we purchase. Local Designers include Hilary Else, Gayle McIver, and lines from Spinning Ninny - Morena Clothing, Floating Gold IceBerg and Gypsy Lou. Tickets can be purchased at El Centro Cafe + Tasting Room and Spinning Ninny Boutique in Cow Bay. Tickets include a three course meal.

Image above: Local designer Marcy Ross, Morena Clothing available at Spinning Ninny www.morenaclothing.ca

Listen Globally, Play Locally.

Modern Dance Workshops with Dance Choreographer Jung-Ah Chung Tuesdays: June 7 & 28 6:30pm - 8pm $20 or both for $35 Art House 1756 Wilmot Ave, Shawnigan Lake Village 250 743 5846 www.MoonDanceArts.ca Jung-Ah’s style is challenging and physical. It leaves one feeling alive in that breathless way that only dance can. All of her work is charged with a love of dance.

The workshops build the foundations of technique in combinations that provide an exploration of movement and a sense of dance. Dancers find balance and focus through an exploration of motion, aesthetic, and fearlessness. Originally from Seoul, Korea, since moving to BC Jung-Ah has worked with Constance Cooke, Ballet Victoria, TriPOD Dance Collective, Out of the Box Productions, Suddenly Dance Theatre, Wen Wei Dance and Battery Opera. With her nonstop versatile performances she was chosen as The Victoria’s Favourite Choreographer in 2006 and the favourite Dancer in 2004 by M-Awards, Monday Magazine. MoonDance is grateful to have Jung-Ah share her talents and passions here in Shawnigan Village.

Let me catch my breath....

Call or email to register: 737-1331 or info@bopoma. org

•Classes • Performances

African-rooted community music... for everyone!

250-737-1331 www.bopoma.org

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

23

The Best of Cowichan Bay is About to Become Even Better.

V

isitors and residents alike have long enjoyed the Cowichan Maritime Centre’s boat-building workshop, museum, and of course the children’s boat-making station halfway out on the pier.

Two months ago, ground was broken for a new timber-frame museum and community meeting space. Executive Director Suzan Lagrove anticipates that the larger exhibition space will increase their visitors from 10,000 to 20,000 - visitors who will also enjoy the other shops and attractions of the bay area.

The upstairs will provide a muchneeded community meeting space for up to 80 people, plus a kitchenette. “It will be dust-free,” Lagrove adds, “and we won’t have to move the boat workshop around like we do now.”

The building should be ready

by August, and the public is warmly invited to the Timber

Raising on Friday, June 3 at 5pm.

If watching the MacDonaldLawrence experts erect the huge local timber structures into place isn’t enough, there’ll also be a BBQ by donation and live entertainment.

Then plan to come again on Sat, June 18 for the annual Boat Festival, including the “Fast and Furious boat building competition” and the ever-popular chowder contest. In keeping with this year’s zero-waste theme, even the new building is recyclable, thanks to the natural wood, timber frame construction that uses wooden pegs for fasteners.

Speaking of wooden pegs, you can help raise the final $80,000 for this great project by purchasing one of those pegs by donation. Write a message on it that, 100 or 200 years from now, may be re-discovered if the building is ever deconstructed and repurposed. Visit www.

ClassicBoats.org for more information.

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

FreeRangeConsulting.ca

S L OU

ESCAPE

ESTHETICS Est. Since 2006

The first and only green spa in the Cowichan Valley.

Offering Certified Organic skincare Eminence from Hungary. We specialize in skin care, foot care and offer a full range of spa treatments. #4 -5777 Trans Canada Hwy, Duncan BC 250.748.2056 www.soulescape.ca

24

summer sailing programs for youth

W

e are gearing up for another exciting summer of sailing and activities at the Maple Bay Yacht Club. Our summer calendar consists of 5-day sailing programs and events including movie nights, camping trips, barbecues, swimming, weekend and evening sailing, tubing, and boogie boarding. Last year almost every week of sailing lessons was full to capacity— something we hope to see again this summer. New this year, we have expanded the available sailing levels for ages 8-13 with a more comprehensive approach to developing sailing skills, while still having fun! We are also hoping to be able

to expand the program for youth who are interested in racing and advanced sailing tactics. It is heart warming to watch the dynamics of the Junior program participants as they develop skills, friends and confidence. Our junior members are inspired about being active, outdoors, and on the water during the warm summer months. It is really a joy to be part of this group, and an amazing way to spend the summer. The MBYC Junior Program is open to everyone from 8 - 18, and we welcome you to join us for a fun season of activities and sailing. Check out our website at: www.mbyc.bc.ca Register early to avoid being disappointed.

Cowichan Men’s Centre

W

e wanted to take this opportunity to thank everyone in the Cowichan Valley and beyond for your support over the past couple of years since we introduced our programs to you!

Speaking of programs, we are very proud to be offering our third mentor training weekend in June!

This is a very powerful weekend called Reclaim Your Teenage Fire. It is an opportunity for men who want to support young men age 12 to 17 in our Boys to Men program, to take another look at their own teenage years and possibly do some much overdue healing. This allows the new mentors to be in a good place for the young men.

We are still running our Dads Make a Difference program on a weekly basis. It usually runs every Tuesday from 6 to 8pm at The Open Door on St. Julian St. Presently, it is running at the

Margaret Moss Health Centre on Canada Ave (back door) due to repairs at The Open Door. It is a great group for new dads and dads in crisis!

Come check out our Men’s Circles at the old church at the end of Church Way (just off Kimalu near the highway) every Wednesday 7 to 9:30pm. This is a great peer support group for men!

Our Respectful Men program is looking for new participants looking to learn compassionate communication. Please contact us for more details.

June 19th is our second annual Father’s Day event in Duncan Square – 10am to 2pm. There will be music, food, and other great Cowichan Valley organizations. Please check our website for information on our Father’s Day contest! www.cowichanmen.org

Building the Bridge: June is Aboriginal Month

A

lmost four years ago, Jean Crowder (NanaimoCowichan MP) introduced a motion to declare June as National Aboriginal Month- it took two years, but finally in

June 2009 the first National Aboriginal Month was celebrated in Canada. Prior to this, June 21st was recognized as National Aboriginal Day and many communities, including Cowichan, held celebrations recognizing the enormous contribution that First Nations, Inuit and Metis peoples have made in Canada. I believe that this can also include recognition of the strength of our present-day communities and the exciting

Sunday Morning Meditation 10:30 am to noon The focus is on calming abiding practise and cultivating mindfulness.

1555 Longwood Road Cowichan Bay

250 709 9673

future that stands before us. We have many strong communities in the Cowichan Region, including Malahat, Cowichan, Chemainus, Penelakut, Lyackson, Halalt and Lake Cowichan.

Perhaps you have never met a member of one of our First Nations communities. Take this opportunity to learn more about the First People of this beautiful place we get to call home.

On June 21, Cowichan Tribes is hosting a community celebration at the Quw’utsun’ Cultural and Conference Centre (QCCC) (200 Cowichan Way, Duncan). The day will feature a free lunch for everyone, free Cultural tours, free films at the QCCC theatre, dance performances, kids’ activities and more! I hope you can come and join us to celebrate this very special day! Huy tseep qa (Thank you everyone)

Here are some Hul’q’umi’num’ words you can learn this month: Seasons....tsatsup Spring...... (yu) xay’tl’thut Summer...tum’kw’e’lus June........Yu-qw’iqw’ulus (Summer weather is coming) July.........Tum’qw’i’lus (the hottest time) *All words are from the Quw’utsun Hul’q’umi’num’ category dictionary- if you would like to purchase a dictionary please contact the Quw’utsun Syuw’entst (Education dept) at 250-701-1022.

Jenn K. George is the Project Manger for Water, Sewer & Energy Projects for the Cowichan Tribes and on-call news broadcaster for 89.7 SunFM

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

25

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

First, a big thank you for giving me the opportunity to represent the citizens of Nanaimo-Cowichan in Ottawa for another term. It is an honour.

At this time of year I often get requests from students finishing final school projects on elections, our Parliament and Canadian government.

The Library of Parliament has two new resources designed to help Canadian students learn more about our legislative system. They are: Youth Connection: www.parl.gc.ca/youth The Youth Connection page brings together programs, products and services linking youth to Parliament, such as employment and study opportunities, interactive web resources, live feeds, photos, glossaries and information for school projects in one convenient location.

Discover How Canadians Govern Themselves: www.parl.gc.ca/discover A feature of the Youth Connection page, Discover How Canadians Govern Themselves uses interactive games, videos, images, puzzles and quizzes to explain Canada’s system of government and how Parliament works. The new resource supports the content in How Canadians Govern Themselves by the late Senator Eugene Forsey, now in its seventh edition.

How Mushrooms Can Help Save the World with Paul Stamets

June 11 & 12 7pm - 9:30pm $175 + HST (with lunch) Foxglove Farm, Salt Spring 1-250-931-5336 www.foxglovefarmbc.ca Author, mycologist, and ecoinnovator Paul Stamets will bring his vision and practical knowledge to a rare workshop at Salt Spring Island’s Centre for Arts, Ecology, & Agriculture - Foxglove Farm.

Fungi, particularly mushrooms, offer some powerful, practical solutions to many of the forces of environmental degradation facing the biosphere. “The central premise is that habitats

have immune systems just like people,” Stamets says.

“Our close evolutionary relationship to fungi can be the basis for novel pairings that lead to greater sustainability and better health.” Stamets works with mycelium to replace chemical insecticides and break down toxic wastes, including petroleum-based products such as diesel, dioxins, and numerous other harmful chemicals into nontoxic forms.

The course will be a blend of lecture on how fungi can help heal the environment with hands-on demonstration on growing edible and medicinal mushrooms.

Farmers,gardeners, green architects and ecological designers all can use these emerging myco- technologies.

For information about NDP policy, you can check out www.ndp.ca.

Good luck on your studies!

June 25 10:30 am -10 pm

Creating community connections and support around the passage of dying.

For Info Cari 250 701 0978

27th Annual Islands Folk Festival

July 22, 23, 24 Providence Farm, Duncan, BC. 26

Advance tickets now on sale.

Please visit

www.folkfest.bc.ca

Renovate With a Tint of Green

O

dds are the sun will come out this year for at least a couple of days in a row. And when it does, you may find yourself inspired to introduce your home to the Three Rs’ not-so-distant cousins: Renovation and Repair.

Invigorating your space with a fresh coat of paint or replacing broken doomahickies and thingamawhatzits is an excellent way to add life to your home and we all know upkeep is more environmentally friendly than rebuilding.

Even greener still is using recycled materials in your repairs and renovations.

In Cowichan, an excellent spot to start on your quest for paint is the Cowichan Valley Bottle Depot. Among the mismatched returned quarts and half-gallons, you may even find inspiration.

For home renovation projects, a perusal through Schnitzer Steel Pacific’s reclaimed items in the Outdoor Metal Store can turn up anything from fencing

to gutters to window frames.

Another superb resource is Habitat for Humanity’s ReStore in Langford. If it’s an item salvaged from a home demolition or renovation, such as bathtubs, windows, cabinets, and even smoke alarms and light fixtures, chances are the ReStore has it.

And if all this searching is still coming up short for the exact item you need to put your house on the front page of Home and Garden, it never hurts to ask the cyberspace community at www.cvrecycle.ca.

Go online and sign up for a free membership at Cowichan Valley Recycle ReUseIt and post what you are looking for.

And after renovating with recycled materials, you may even have money left over to go out and enjoy the sun.

Aaron Bichard co-owner of Cowichan Recyclists an ecologically sustainable and responsible company helping businesses reduce their impact on the environment.

Green Living: How to Have an Eco-Friendly Bathroom

T

he bathroom is often the worst offender in our house in terms of green practices. Here are some tips to consider to make it more eco-friendly.

Garbage or Not? Place a small basket in each bathroom to ensure empty TP rolls, shampoo bottles, tissue boxes etc get recycled.

Take expired medications back to your pharmacy to prevent them from finding their way into our ecosystems and drinking water.

Old nail polish, polish remover, hair spray and left over hair dye contain toxic and hazardous chemicals. Check with local municipality to find out when/where you may dispose of your toxic waste.

Repurpose your old toothbrush into a scrub brush for the tile grout. The old shower curtain makes a great drop cloth for painting or craft projects.

Save Water and Energy

less often. Turn off the water when shaving and brushing your teeth. *BC Hydro hands out shower timers for free that suction onto your shower wall to help everyone in the family monitor their time.

Smart Shopping There are many green product choices available now. Look for cosmetics, hair care, deodorants, toothpaste, even toothbrushes and razors that are made from recycled materials or are compostable.

Buy products in the biggest container available and choose refillable products for your shampoo, conditioner and liquid hand soap.

Choose recycled TP and tissue products. To cut down on plastic you can purchase large cases of TP from your local janitorial supply company in which the rolls wrapped in paper instead of plastic.

It goes without saying that choosing green cleaners and reusable microfiber cleaning cloths for the bathroom is the only way to go!

You can convert your regular toilet to a low flush toilet by filling a plastic 2 lt milk jug with water, put the cap on and set it into the back of the tank. You will displace 2 lts of water and save that each time you flush! Flush

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

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

27

Tube colors we have been using are, mostly Black with grey and white, Olive with Gold speckle, Black with red speckle.

South Island Fishing Report

T

he warmer temperatures through May and into June has brought the fishing in our local rivers and lakes to life. The fishing has been excellent in the Cowichan River as well as pretty much all of our local lakes.

The above photo is of Stu Kelm . He caught what we call the Grand Slam. He caught a Steelhead, Brown, Rainbow and Cutthroat trout the same day. Not only did he catch the 4 species, he caught them all on the same

fly.

Here’s the bait.

Eyes-n-tubes golden stone fly.

The fly that caught the slam.

The Bass fishing started heating up in mid May and has been excellent into June.

For the gear fishers I would suggest drop shoting with worms in various colors, or lightly weighted Tubes. We have used a few different colors of tubes with some great success. The

28

A Gibbs croc in brass with a fire orange stripe is also a good bet as you can catch both Bass and trout on the same lure. The lakes I recommend for the Bass are, Quesnel, Fuller and Shawnigan lakes here in the valley. St Mary lake on Saltspring Island is also a very good bet. This fishery should remain very good through late June into July.

Fly fishing for Bass can also be excellent at this time of year.

Using sinking lines with Wooly bugger and leach style flies in olive and black colors should work well.

Fishing for trout in the local lakes continues to be excellent.

The fly fishers are doing well on small leach and wooly bugger patterns in olive and black colors.

The gear fishers are doing well with the standard trolling set ups which include, plugs, gang trolls, Gibbs hockey stick in black glitter or frog colors.

For ocean anglers we are just starting to get into what is predicted to be a very good year for salmon along our coast lines.

Trolling with anchovies, spoons and Hoochie’s seem to be the most common lures and cutt plugging with herring.

Good Fishing This report is provided

by Kenzie Cuthbert 23 years of guiding on our local waters.www. cowichanriverwildernesslodge.com

Permaculture is the thoughtful observation of a thousand acre farm or a 3’x6’ balcony. With observation we can interpret and create systems not only for food but also for communities.

It means harmonizing with the existing patterns to achieve maximum benefit.

P

Permaculture: Solutions for an Uncertain Future

ermaculture. It’s a word, a movement, a way to act, a solution, for some a livelihood and for others a life.

“What permaculturists are doing is the most important activity that any group is doing on the planet.”

David Suzuki Why would Canada’s leading environmentalist say this?

And why are so many others agreeing?’ Now over 40 years old, Permaculture is reaching middle age and proving its ability provide on-the-ground, affordable, practical, positive solutions to create happy, healthy and wealthy lives.

Permaculture began with Bill Mollison in Australia. While observing a forest he pondered, ‘this forest doesn’t need fertilizing, weeding or watering and yet it still provides for all the life within in’. Mollison then went on to design “food forests” that provided food, fuel, fibre, fuel and medicine for human consumption with minimal human effort. This principle, to undertake the least amount of action for the most benefit, is central to the movement.

Such principles have produced some incredible results, both here and abroad:

- Greening the Desert (Video on Youtube) - Geoff Lawton established a food forest in Jordan, 400m below sea level in salted soils. Using swales (water harvesting ditches on contour) the scarce Jordan rainfall had a chance to be held in the soil, providing for fruit trees and even mushrooms (which shocked local caretakers who had never seen mushrooms before as there had never been enough water to grow them).

- Sepp Holtzer established over 72 ponds and 9000 fruit trees, 1500m above sea level in the Austrian mountains. He raises fish for profit (called aquaculture) and, with his fruit trees and other crops, provided for his livelihood. “Once planted, I do absolutely nothing,” Holzer told Reuters, “It really is just nature working for itself - no weeding, no pruning, no watering, no fertilizer, no pesticides.”

- Closer to home Brandon Bauer created a perennial (producing year after year) garden system on Salt Spring Island, BC. Upon the farm’s 7th year human effort dropped to 10%. What happened to production in year 8 after this dramatic change? Nothing, the farm produced at the same levels of year 7 as it did in year 8 with 90% less human effort. Bauer essentially created perennial food systems that required less work and maintenance over time.

Taught in a 3-week format, the Permaculture Design Certificate is the premier permaculture education opportunity to acquire the theory, hands on experience, tools, methodology and skills needed to live happy, healthy and wealthy.

Permaculture BC is hosting a local Permaculture Design Certificate on Salt Spring Island this summer from June 26-July 15. The 100 years of combined experience of the 10 instructors will feed students’ desire to learn and cut decades off of their learning curve.

Permaculture means seeing all ecosystems and species as connected and creating beneficial relationships with all elements in a design. It means more solutions and possibilities than obstacles.

It means more time with friends, family and your community.

Visit www.permaculturebc.com to register.

For the individual, permaculture means: - less money, energy and time to produce more food - the ability to “see” resources where others only see “waste” - tips and strategies to conserve energy and strengthen communities - real-world solutions that you can implement today to increase your happiness, health and wealth

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

Javan Bernakevitch operates Permaculture BC. Learn more about permaculture or register in an upcoming course at www.permaculturebc.com.

29

A Sampler Guide to Cycling in The Cowichan

T

he network of trails and road routes winding around the Cowichan Valley are sure to satisfy a wide range of cyclists, from beginners to advanced. For riders who want a nice, easy route for the afternoon, begin in Duncan, and head east onto Trunk Rd. This will turn into Tzouhalem Rd. Follow the road towards Mount Tzouhalem through Cowichan Tribes land, passing Providence Farm, St. Ann’s and the old stone church. Turn left onto Westcan Terminal

Rd. It’s a beautiful out and back route that you can follow to the end of a peninsula. To extend your trip you can make a left upon leaving Westcan Terminal Rd. Travelling south on Tzouhalem Rd will turn into Cowichan Bay Rd, leading you right into the seaside town of Cowichan Bay. Home to the Holden’s Lighthouse Eatery, Cowichan Bay Seafoods, Hilary’s Cheese Shop, True Grain Bakery, Udder Guys Ice Cream and the Cow Bay Marine Pub, all excellent stops for a snack or refreshments.

Another short, lovely route in the Duncan vicinity. Follow Tzouhalem Rd. east from town. When you reach the roundabout stay left to access Maple Bay Road. Follow this road past Quamichan Lake and the Nature’s Trust Garry Oak preserve. Before you reach the ocean turn left onto Herd

The Art of Spiritual Companioning - Deep Listening One Day Intensive - Saturday June 18, 2011

with Master Facilitator Kate Marsh Would you like to: - be a better listener?

- enjoy stronger relationships?

- replace conflict with cooperation (yes -even with partners and teens) “Companioning’ is simple but not easy – like all good art it takes time, energy and practice to perfect.This workshop is ideal for counsellors, educators, volunteers, professionals of any discipline, parents, grandparents and partners – anyone who is interested in creating and supporting a culture of respect, responsibility, caring and justice in their homes, relationships and work settings.

Register by June 7th - $115.00 (includes lunch) Contact: katemarsh@shaw.ca 250.246.9705

Road, miandering through farms until Lakes Road where you turn left again to complete your loop back to town. The closer you get to Maple Bay, the hillier the route becomes, but for the most part, it is a bucolic, undulating trip past farms, fields, and forest. If you want to stop for lunch, continue to the end of Maple

Bay road for a modest seaside lunch at the Brigantine Pub or take the Genoa Bay Road turn off for a patio lunch at the infamous seaside Cafe.

Karen is a Salt Spring writer, triathlete, and loyal customer at Experience Cycling in Duncan.

K to Grade 8 COBBLE HILL 3515 Watson Avenue Phone: 250 743-2433 Small class size Integrated learning Sense of Community Innovative teachers Providing balanced education where academic excellence and individual development are equally valued, and where the inherent joy of learning is nurtured in a caring and respectful community.

30

www.evergreenbc.net

d

Matraea Centre

Matraea Centre

170 Craig St, Duncan

T

he Matraea Centre recently opened in downtown Duncan. It occupies the former Centre of Attention building opposite City Hall. The Matraea Centre stands poised to redefine the wholistic health service delivery model in the Cowichan Valley. Registered midwives Selina Boily and Kate Koyote have transformed the original red brick BC Telephone building into a beautiful centre catering to the health and well-being of families in the Cowichan Valley.

Selina Boily and Kate Koyote of the Cowichan Midwifery Group (CMG) began working as Registered Midwives in BC in 1999. The two have been birthing babies together for over a decade and their practice has grown to include two additional midwives, Jane Ballaro and her new practice partner Talia Mackenzie. The group now provides maternity care for over 30% of pregnant women and families in the Cowichan Valley.

CMG first occupied downtown

commercial space before realizing their dream of creating a centre facilitating access to a broader community of professionals and services.

Matraea Centre’s professional directory includes: the Cowichan Midwifery Group; Natural Harmony Chinese Medicine, owned and operated by Kim Cooper, RTCMP—a leading acupuncturist in the valley; certified nutritionist and fitness instructor Kathleen Neilson’s Nourish Health and Wellness, and new-to-the-valley Naturopathic Physician, Dr. Rikst Attema who has recently relocated from Vancouver.

Co-owner of the centre, Nika Stafford, carries on the Centre of Attention legacy offering natural hairstyling and esthetics in a quaint and elegant salon on the ground floor of the building.

are available through Matraea Mercantile.

Opening in July, Matraea Mercantile is Selina Boily and Kate Koyote’s newest ambition.

This quaint boutique will stock organic, natural, specialty health products related to family wellness, pregnancy, birth and babies. Ascending the original marble staircase entry to the main floor of the building and visible through the turn-of-the-century shop window, the stores shelves will be overflowing with retail specialty goods including herbs, e-mail:drfeiyang@gmail.com teas, vitamins, personal care Matraea Centre also hosts a products, books, clothing, baby community classroom/studio carriers, breastfeeding supplies, space for events and classes. cloth diapers and glass Currently, Sadie Bartram offers Hatha yoga classes for children, pre-natal/post-natal yoga, and a “mother-love” class for mothers with older children; Sarah Juliusson of Island Mother, offers Birthing from Within prenatal classes and Mama Renew groups, and Kathleen Neilson offers her prenatal fitness classes twice a week. Updated class schedules

baby bottles. Homebirth kits and supplies; unique baby gifts and cards, chocolate cigars, DIY belly-casting kits and a gift registry will also be available.

The intention is to carry products that promote the wellbeing of families and to foster community connection.

Matraea Centre will have its grand opening in mid-July 2011.

All are welcome to come and explore this newly renovated historic building in the heart of Duncan’s Downtown Core.

• Now accepting Image Left; Matraea Centre Tenants new patients

by Rupert Koyote about the Spring Cleanse program • Inquire Image Right; Heritage Buliding by Cindy Storie - Soth

Healthy Living Traditional Chinese Herbal Medicine A c u p u n c t u re Diet Thera py

Dr. Fei Yang Dr TCM, Reg. AC

Improving your health & well being through a natural, personal approach

Traditional Chinese Medicine 250.733.2917 Valley Voice Magazine. For people who love to eat, live, play and shop in the Cowichan Valley.

Rejuvenate your health with Dr. Fei Yang

31

Our Immune System takes a beating – even when we eat healthy

Y

ou’re probably more healthconscious than the average person. In addition to a lifestyle with regular exercise, you understand the importance food has on your health - that there is a close relationship between what you eat and how your body/mind performs.

Despite the odd indulgence (be it chocolate, ice-cream or a juicy hamburger) you try hard to stick with a balanced diet, abundant in foods known to be healthy: fruits, vegetables, whole grains, plenty of water, and maybe even some natural supplements.

For our immune system to keep us healthy and strong, we need the right combination of vitamins and nutrients. While eating fruits and veggies is definitely healthier than eating fast-food, pastas, ect, a great diet will not always guarantee good health.

The sad truth about what we eat...

As you know, there are additives in many of the foods we eat added sugar in our juices, salt in our soups, sulphates in our wine and even chlorine in our water.

Eating all pure, organic foods is

commonly recommended over non-organic foods. But is that enough? Non-organic foods (like those pear-sized strawberries we buy at the store) are not only artificially enhanced, but they often have pesticide residues that can actually poison the immune system...somewhat counterproductive, isn’t it?

In short..Eating good food grown in bad soil isn’t sufficient. Where does that leave us? Without a well-equipped immune system, we are susceptible to colds and flu and other infections...as well as more serious health issues in the long term.

Prevention is the name of the game! Nature’s Sunshine Herbs and Supplements are designed for those of us who think ahead.

The magic is its simplicity –

taking herbs and vitamins have been proven to strengthen our immune defences, allowing us to maintain our health - even during periods of stress and other immune system attacks. The Zyto Compass Technology can assist in deciding what your body needs. For just a few minutes of your time, the Compass reads your Bio rhythm and lets you know the program that is right for you. Proven to be very accurate. Call Reiki Wellness 250 743 8122 for an assessment today.

Debbie Shuratoff Reiki Master-Teacher, Foot Spa Detox Practitioner, Natural Health Consultant. www.reikiwellness.ca

Cowichan Valley Herbal Intensive Cowichan Valley Herbalist Intensive with Lorene Benoit

July 15 - 18 $475 Early Bird Registration till June 15th only $375 Includes lunch, materials and some samples To register 250 748 6802

T

he Cowichan Valley supports a lush growth of plants traditionally used for medicines and food. The past 12 summers people have joined Lorene Benoit, Master Herbalist and Holistic Healer with 30+ years experience, in an Herbal Intensive to learn about nature’s gifts. There are over 350 plant species on this Land

Trust Conservancy site.

We study indigenous and cultivated botanicals; Doctrine of Signatures; Medicine Wheel; herbal energetics; learn to identify, harvest, store, prepare and apply herbs for medicinal purposes.

One might get a comfrey poultice applied for swelling or pain, another a cold calendula compress to decrease bruising, faces contort as we taste the bitters like yellow dock and mugwort, or relax with a calming mucilaginous herb, like malva. We eat “weeds” in our daily salads. This course is experiential – so be ready to taste, touch and smell. We make herbal tinctures, glycerites, oils, vinegars and salves.

Monica from Nova Scotia commented, “ I encourage everyone to attend this inspiring & educational event. Once you embark on this opportunity to identify, smell, and work with a wide variety of herbs you’ll gain a greater understanding and appreciation of the healing powers herbs offer. The medicine wheel and other teachings on all pillars of health will bring you closer to self healing.”

Kerry from Alberta commented: “This course was amazing! I’m

a farmer and know alot about plants; but came to this course to learn what people in the past used to treat their ailments. They never ran to the doctor for everything.

Keep up the awesome work!

Join us for 3 ½ full days, spaces fill quickly. Includes lunch, materials, some samples.

Lorene Benoit, BEd, MHH, CHC, CI, CRA. Master Holistic Health, Certified Herbal Consultant and Educator. www.naturalpathremedies. com

Kundalini Yoga Classes

Victoria, Cowichan Valley, Nanaimo, Denman Island 250-597-8849 kundalinicowichan@shaw.ca or http://kundalinicowichan.shawwebspace.ca

32

HH,

When the Journey Asks A Question she was dancing back home to get her scrap cleaned and bandaged, bouncing along and asking a million questions.

Every journey asks a question.

Every journey has an answer.

A

few days ago I took a little girl for walk.

She reminded me of myself at that age, chatting and skipping along the path, carefree and curious. We turned off the main road onto a gravel path, muddy with the recent rains. I went first, jumped over a puddle where the run off had washed out the trail. She followed, but landed unevenly, slipped and went down on all fours.

She stood up, surprised and looking down at her knees, she began to whimper. Then seeing some blood on her jeans, she broke into sobbing.

I remained calm, brushed off her hands and assured her that she would be alright.

Immediately, sensing my calm and confidence, she stopped sobbing and gulped down her tears. A few moments later,

Whether it is half way around the world, or around your own neighborhood, all your journeys are soul journeys into the world and into yourself.

Listening to the questions and answers of your journeys is one of the most powerful ways to connect with your own inner wisdom and guidance.

To access this guidance takes training, attention, and the time to be contemplative. When we pause to pray, meditate, contemplate, or simply to jump over a puddle with a little girl, angles and beings of light come to us and communicate.

Each person is connected with greater wisdom within themselves through intimate conversations with guides, teachers, and ancestors.

Julia Star BHD.BEd

Spiritual Counsellor Solving life’s problems with your own inner guidance.

Working with the Whole Person

The question this journey asked me was, “What happens when you fall?”

The answer was: “Be calm and confident. Pick yourself up and take care of the trauma. Then continue on.”

250-709-9673 $60 / hour www.longboatcounselling.com info@longboatcounselling.com

Try This!

1 Before you begin any journey, whether to the store or to another continent, take a moment to pause in reflection. Be aware that the journey will ask a question.

2 Now go out about your work, but keep that divine connection with the world, by keeping that awareness in your mind.

3 Something will present itself to you: a question… and an answer. It could be the wind blowing a leaf in front of you, the cawing of a raven, or sunlight suddenly piercing the clouds.

4 Trust your first impressions. Let it connect within you. Trust that outside reflects inside because they are created from the same wholeness, interconnected and interdependent in all places and at all times.

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

Julia Star is a spiriutal counsellor in the Cowichan Valley. She is the author of “The River Books-Love, Work, Wisdom For appointments call 250-709-9673.

33

Helpful Garden Friendly Natives

a few seed stalks after flowers have faded.

Deer fern, Lady fern and Solomon’s Seal (Polygonatum) all add graceful structure to the forest woodland garden.

P

eople often ask me how I get my landscape to look so natural. Answer? Because much of what I’ve used are plants native to our area. I’ve manipulated nature to make it fit my overall design.

To achieve a natural woodland appearance within an existing design, begin to re-introduce plants that may have been eliminated in order to create planting beds.

For all season evergreen groundcovers, re-introduce native creeping Oregon grape (Mahonia repens), Salal (Gaulthera shallon) and Sword ferns. These create a deep green background for smaller blooming perennials.

Use our Pacific Bleeding Heart (Dicentra formosa) for it’s light airy effect and soft mauve flowers. It will establish itself as a huge colony of succulent ferny foliage with several bloom periods to enjoy over a long season from April to October.

Fringe cup (Tellima grandiflora) and Foamflower (Tiarella) are related to Heuchera and both have beautiful foliage and tall spikes of unusual flowers. Allow these to spread naturally by leaving on

34

There are several low growing creeping ground covers that are invaluable as well. Bunchberry (Cornus canadensis) is a ground cover form of Dogwood. The bloom is a perfectly formed tiny Dogwood flower and it leaves behind a bright red fruit after flowering.

Northern Star Flower shows itself by the hundreds when established with a small whirl of leaves on short (3 inch) stems topped by a tiny white to palest pink flower. This one is my favourite and everybody wants to know what it is. I’ve never seen it offered for sale anywhere so if it makes an appearance in your garden, cherish it!

With a lush understory of native plants, your rhodo beds and shady garden beds will begin to look as if the natural design came first and all you did was augment it with larger plants and trees to achieve a harmonious balance.

Using these eco-friendly native plants as part of your design will ultimately help you save water too. Once established, they need little care and deer won’t touch most of them either!

Ajay Oppelaar is VP of the Mill Bay Garden Club. For club membership information or other questions contact him at dangerboy2490@hotmail. com.

WEBSITES, EMAILS AND VERBAL LINT Ah, summertime in the Cowichan and the living is easy.

And with that in mind I asked several of our readers to tell us their favourite things about summer in our beautiful area ....

TONI BLITTERSWYK: “I love all the fantastic swimming spots that are available to all of us! I love swimming in the Cowichan River, Chemainus River and Koksilah River; Fuller’s Lake, first thing in the morning, when the sun hits the beach and Cowichan Lake, Youbou side, when the sun sets on the beach! I feel so grateful to be living in such an amazing valley, we are truly blessed!”

Toni is a realtor with Sutton West Coast Realty, specializing in residential real estate sales from Mill Bay to Ladysmith including Lake Cowichan. Yes, she has a website (www.ToniB.ca) CORRY SUTER: “Shakey Reay and I love to go to our local little ice-cream cafe on the corner, Ocean Soul Book Caffe, in Crofton, and enjoy our purchase, stroll to the Crofton Boardwalk, watch the ferry from Saltspring, then come home and enjoy the comforts of the sundeck, where I paint on my easel, and listen to my world-class husband play some world-class harmonica.

I work with the School Board and Shakey works for the CVRD so a little more time to play is always a bonus in the summer. Singing, writing a new song, learning it together and enjoying the occasional jam with talented musical friends are things we love, when the days are longer and we get a little more time to be creative. “ Formerly known as Little Blue Planet Corry and musician hubby Shakey Reay now perform as a duo called Shake n’ Cor. Log onto www.myspace.com/alittleblueplanet to hear samples of their talents.

MELISSA PARKER: “I’ve lived in the Cowichan Valley all my life. I can’t imagine living anywhere else. This place is so beautiful! Especially in the summer! I’m really looking forward to taking photos of all my adventures which include volunteering at Islands Folkfest, tubing down the Cowichan River, hiking up many mountains, and going on road trips to various places on the island. “ Melissa is an avid photographer and dedicated Superstore employee (six years this August) who says she is looking forward to a successful career in the future as a wellness consultant.

KATE ROSSETTO: “Enjoying local food and wine, Islands Folk Festival and, best of all, sharing the experience of whale watching and local art with people from all around the world. “ Kate is a Cowichan Valley event planner and ecotourism hostess.

By Rick Dennis

I

t T a w t c

C

TLC Urges You To Be the Change Artist Art Vickers Taken byPaul Manly of Manly Media

I

nspired by the words “Be the Change You Want to See in the World” by Mahatma Gandhi, TLC is encouraging people into action to be the change they want to see in the world. With this mission in mind, TLC is challenging British Columbians

to step forward to dream about the kind of world that they want, and to make it a reality with TLC. As an agent for change, TLC is here to serve local communities in protecting the places that matter most to them.

Through inspirational videos, photos, and personal quotes people who have a strong connection with B.C. are sharing their thoughts on how they want to shape their communities, make a difference, and leave B.C. an even better place. From there, people are making a donation to TLC and asking their friends, coworkers, and others within their networks (on their facebook or twitter pages, youtube accounts, etc) to join the cause.

Artist Arthur Vickers is one of the first supporters to lend a hand by creating a video for the campaign. “As a resident in the Cowichan Valley I’m fortunate to live in an area where the fresh water meets the saltwater and the mountains are in my backyard.

Everyday, I see how incredibly

fragile our environment is and that’s why I want you to help me support TLC in protecting the places that make this province such an amazing place to live.”

Donations raised through this interactive campaign will help complete important projects such as the Wild Hills and Beaches Campaign with the CRD, Gowlland Point Regional Park on Pender Island and Sansum Point in the Cowichan Valley, as well as assist in the continued stewardship of natural, cultural, or agricultural sites already under TLC’s care.

Help define the B.C. you want.

Be part of the change and join TLC today at http://www. bethechangebc.ca or 1-877-4852422.

Green Hero: Craig Evans support for your community, agriculture and planting the seeds of change is truly remarkable.

You not only create positive farming opportunities within our community, but you also epitomize K. Nerburns quote, “Care less for your harvest than how it is shared, and your life will have meaning and your heart will have peace.”

C

raig Evans, we salute you! You are a selfless man, distinguished from the rest, always willing to lend a hand with a beaming smile on your face. You truly care about the future of farming and helping others, and your

For those of you who don’t know Craig, give this guy a random high five the next time you see him. He has been involved in agriculture and food security issues for almost 25 years.

Although he is incredibly humble, Craig is the Market Manager at Providence Farm, a director in the Island Farmer’s Alliance and the

Community Farms Council. He is also an instructor at VIU where he works with folks who have barriers to regular employment.

Craig is also founder of the Nanaimo Community Gardens and Nanaimo Food Share, a member of the Regional District of Nanaimo’s Agricultural Advisory Committee, the BC Food Systems Network, and the Cowichan Food Security Coalition.

For those of you who would love to garden, but have no yard, one current project that Craig has created is Growing Opportunities Cooperatives. This is a communal gardening project that welcomes all experience levels

of gardeners. “We just want to find the most sustainable way to grow food, and then educate and inspire others to do the same.” says Craig. All you need to do is show up, help out and take home some veggies.

Work parties are held most Fridays & Saturdays during the growing season from 11am to 4pm. For more info please call 250-753-3070, visit www. growopfarm.ca or email: growingopportunities@gmail.com

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

Amanda Reimer is a writer for the Cowichan Green Community. www.cowichangreencommunity.org

35

Writers’ Voice Dragonfly Summer sunshine garden heat of afternoon a glimmer resolves to iridescent subtle colour at rest, in gentle motion Light sings softly, high octaves: delicate shimmering spectra near ‘gainst deep soundings in depths of forest green and shadow And sometimes this, to me, gentle amazement … but, among insects, a fearsome dragon, surely will come by chance inside and risk its beautiful, fragile wings against my window And I so gently, begging its trust, encup this wonder in my softest of hands so delicately, thrilling to its vibrant vitality with heartful thanks for the honour its presence in my home, in my hands carry it to the garden And open, to reveal in close regard, its massive body a thousand eyes’ dark shining legs finding position for launch wonderful long wings testing freedom regained

Moon Beams: Moon Pathways

L

ike clockwork, our beloved moon takes a little scenic journey (orbit) through the stars around the Earth for about a month or so. Interestingly enough, the word month is derived from moon-th.

With the arrival of warmer evenings, you may start to find yourself gravitating to linger outdoors longer and later. Perhaps take some time and watch nature’s television by observing the moon for a week or so and watch as she carves her pathway through the stars. Each night, note her rising or setting, or draw a picture of where she sits in relation to the background of stars, or simply jot some notes down about what you see. Can you tell which direction she moves? Is she rising later or earlier each night? It won’t take long for you to discover her itinerary. The lunar eclipse and full moon arrives on June 15th bearing the sign of Sagittarius.

Sagittarian energy brings us a sense of adventure within our homes and

Then, in slow courage rises from my hands and soars ‘cross summer sunshine garden iridescent glimmer admiration attending its return to silent distance, away JM Steven (After a note to V, about Lavender) Stoneycroft, 2009 Submissions may be sent to Writers.Voice@shaw.ca WV Editor: John Steven

Special thanks to Bucknucks Books for their generous sponsorship of Writers’ Voice.

36

Creating Community Connections and Support Around the Passage of Dying June 25 10.30am – 10 pm OUR Eco Village Shawnigan Lake Full Day Event $40 - 75 Half day participation with one meal $20 - 50 For info 250 701 0978 Often the passage of dying brings isolation; not only for the person dying and for those left behind. How can we find personal connection and support to

out in the world where we explore new ideas, experiences, knowledge, and people.

We have various names for the moon, such as the Strawberry Moon (Algonquin) referring to the short harvest season of strawberries, the Mead Moon (Celtic) indicating the ideal time to mow the meadows (meads) for hay, Dyan Moon (Medieval English) for the Roman Moon Goddess Diana as she surrendered the sky to the Archer, Flower Moon (English) for the abundance of flowers at this time of year, and the Planting Moon (Neo-Pagan) as the name indicates is the best time to plant during the year.

Lunar eclipses are all about endings and major changes — so try to go with the flow and enjoy some moon watching in the meantime!

Happy Summer Solstice everyone.

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

this inevitable process? On June 25, Threshold Choir and O.U.R. EcoVillage will host a gathering to provide an opportunity to interweave ideas, create connection and bring awareness to a new way of being with death. The Cowichan valley is a beautiful place where many people find that death is not closeted away and is celebrated as a healing. Everyone is invited to join in a day that includes presentations, workshops and ceremony to learn about how community can support this life transition. There will also be a preparatory sweat Thursday June 23rd at 3pm held at the O.U.R. ECOVillage. Protocal info on website: http://threshold. joythroughmusic.com/ For info: 250 701 0978

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

Aries (March 21-April 19)

Although this fresh Gemini energy will make everyone busier and more active, none will be as busy as you.

Suddenly you have places to go, things to do, people to see! You’ll be taking short trips and exploring more of your daily world. Expect to meet new contacts and new friends, especially people who are younger than you. Many of you will find yourself reading and writing. Your focus on money will continue and with lucky Jupiter still in your sign, you rock!

Taurus (April 20-May 20)

You’re swimming in the world of high finance! This intrigues you because you’re the banker of the zodiac.) You like wealth because you love beautiful things, creature comforts, and the good life. Naturally, these things require some coin. You also like the security of mortgage free land.

Mercury, Venus and Mars continue to be in your sign; nevertheless, your focus now is on earning money and on major expenditures.

Gemini (May 21-June 20)

Ta-da! The Sun is back in your sign for the first time in a year, giving you a chance to recharge your batteries for the next year ahead. This is why you’re pumped with energy! It’s also why you’ll easily attract people to you this month, along with favourable circumstances. (Naturally, you should

milk this for all it’s worth because you only have this advantage once a year.)

It’s very confidence-building. In fact, some of you might be coming on too strong for others.

Cancer (June 21-July 22)

This month, the Sun is in a hidden part of your chart, which makes you want to work behind the scenes or work alone. Even though other planets encourage you to socialize, you will feel the influence of the Sun urging you to withdraw and hide. (“I need my blankey.”) Each sign gets this urge once a year -- no biggie. Use this time to regroup and pull your act together before you take it on the road (about a month from now.).

Leo (July 23-Aug. 22)

Libra (Sept. 23-Oct. 22)

You want to travel. You want to see those telephone poles going back.

Others are waiting to get groped at airports. That’s because you’re keen to expand through further education, and rub shoulders with people from different backgrounds. You’ll love meeting new people, discussing new ideas, and seeing gorgeous new places. It’s a great time to sign up for a course. Do whatever you can to expand your experience of the world, even if you are just a tourist in your own city. Meanwhile, sex is hot this month. Could this be why your partnerships and relationships are improving?

Scorpio (Oct. 23-Nov. 21)

Whoa Nellie! Your dance card is full.

Suddenly, everyone wants to see your face because you’re popular! Enjoy this wonderful time to schmooze with others, get in contact with friends, and be more active in clubs, groups and organizations. While you’re talking to others, by all means share your goals and dreams for the future with them because their feedback will help you. Because this is a social time of year for you, do not hesitate to establish who you are with your friends. Relax and be yourself.

The Sun is in the part of your chart governed by your ruler Pluto, which means you’ll be dealing more with shared property, taxes, debt, loans, mortgages, insurance matters, and anything that you share or hold jointly with others. This passion you feel will express itself in every avenue of your life: sex, friendship, work, ideas and ideals. You also have a strong drive for self-improvement now. (This is good.) Look around you to others you admire.

Virgo (Aug. 23-Sept. 22)

The Sun is now opposite your sign for the next four-to-six weeks. Naturally, this 180-degree focus draws your attention to partnerships and close friendships. You will scrutinize these relationships, perhaps questioning their benefit to you. In doing so, you have a chance to learn more about your style of relating to others. (This is an opportunity.) Another influence of the placement of the Sun is that you will need more sleep. The Sun is your source of energy, and it is as far away from your sign as it gets all year.

The Sun is at high noon in your chart acting like a spotlight on you. This is why others notice you more than usual, especially bosses, parents, teachers and VIPs. (The police will notice you more, too!) Fortunately, the Sun is a flattering light, which is why everyone thinks you’re the cat’s’ meow. Don’t question this. Just bow, smile and take credit for everything.

Naturally, others will ask you to take on increased responsibilities for something. Don’t worry, say “yes.”

Sagittarius(Nov.22-Dec.21)

Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan. 19)

This is one of the most powerful times of your life, where your cherished dreams can come true. For younger Capricorns, perhaps you’re graduating or getting a good job.

Older Capricorns will experience a career peak. This is why you’re gung ho to get better organized. Buy cleaning equipment, paint supplies, shelving, hangers, notebooks, file folders or whatever it takes to make you feel like you are more on top of your scene. You’ll love yourself for this later.

Aquarius (Jan. 20-Feb. 18)

Lucky Aquarians are on vacation in the next six weeks because you want to goof off. Do anything that allows you to express your creative talents.

Don’t worry about whether or not it is “good.” Creative expression is all about the “doing,” not the product.

Many of you are renovating or redecorating. You’ll enjoy entertaining at home, plus family discussions are very lively now. (“I’ve got the place child-proofed -- but the kids still get in!”) Romance and affairs of the heart get a lovely boost. This is a fun time for you!

Pisces (Feb. 19-March 20)

Your focus is on home, family and domestic matters. This could be because of what is going on within your family dynamic, or because of realestate dealings. Quite likely, you need more time at home to regroup and stabilize yourself. In fact, childhood memories might come bubbling to the surface of your mind. You’re still communicating clearly to others, but it would behoove you to seek some privacy at home. Find a place where you can curl into a fetal position and turn your electric blanket up to nine.

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

37

38

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

39

40