Vv may 2017 issue 102web by Cowichan Valley Voice

owichan

MAY 2017 ISSUE 102

SPRING ARTS I LOCAL EVENTS I MAY FLOWERS I SONG & DANCE I APPLE PIE FAIR

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2 Pianos 4 Hands A Comedy About Music 2PM &7:30PM Chemainus Theatre Tickets at chemainus theatrefestival.ca

OPEN HOUSE 4 A Morning in the Preschool Saturday May 6 10 - 11:30am

After school in the Kindergarten Tuesday May 16 2 - 3 pm

Space is limited - Please RSVP admissions@sunrisewaldorfschool or call 250.743.7253 www.sunrisewaldorfschool.org

PIZZA NIGHT OPENS 4-8PM Bird’s Eye Cove Farm 5881 Genoa Bay Rd (250) 748-6379

GRANDPARENTS RAISING GRANDCHILDREN SUPPORT GROUP 10- 12PM Duncan for details call 1-855-474-9777 FREE LILA COMMUNITY CHOIR 6:307:45PM Lila Music Centre 3228 Gibbins Rd Everyone Welcome also 10/17/24/31 COMMUNITY ACUPUNCTURE WEDNESDAYS 5-8PM w/Frauke McCashin, RAc, #103-44 Queens Rd, Duncan 250-710-3581 $15-$45 also 10/17/24/31 THE SKY BECKONS Encaustics by Alanna Sparanese Excellent Frameworks 28 Station St. Duncan 250-746-7112 runs to 05/29

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VOTE EARLY 8AM to 8PM Read up on your candidates at.onecowichan.ca

COMMUNITY ACUPUNCTURE THURSDAYS w/Frauke McCashin 12-3 pm RAc, #103-44 Queens Rd, Duncan 250-7103581 $15-$45 also 11/25 ALANNA SPARANESE Artist Talk 6-8pm. Excellent Frameworks 28 Station St. Duncan OKIDO (JAPANESE STYLE) YOGA CLASSES with Tin Yan 5:30-7PM @ Sol Centre #3-5380 Trans-Canada Hwy yogaokido@gmail.com Also 11/ 18/25/ BEATLEMANIA TRIBUTE The Deaf Aids 8PM Shipyard Pub Maple Bay 6145 Genoa Bay Rd FREE

LILA COMMUNITY CHOIR 9:30am10:45PM Lila Music Centre 3228 Gibbins Rd 12/19/2 joythroughmusic. com

Cinco de Mayo Dinner, 5-8pm, Merridale 1230 Merridale Rd, Cobble Hill

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WE ARE CELEBRATING OUR BIRTHDAY! Free piece of birthday cake w/ dinner + draw for 2 VIP Passes to Sunfest Bridgemans Bistro Mill Bay Marina

OPEN HOUSE A Morning in the Preschool 10-11:30AM Sunrise Waldorf School 2148 Lakeside Rd RSVP 250-743-7253 sunrisewaldorfschool.org HAYDN’S THE CREATIONS w/ Robert Mari conductor & Cowichan Consort Orchestra & Choir Christian Reform Church 930 Trunk Rd 7:30PM A$15/S $10 THE BIG REVEAL AND OPEN HOUSE Rocky Creek Winery 1854

Myhrest Rd Cowichan Bay FREE ALTERED OLIVES VINTAGE MARKET 11-4PM Blue Grouse 2182 Lakeside Rd ART IS HARD Opening Reception 6-9PM The Ou Gallery 3091 Agira Rd Open Sat& Sun 11-4pm FREE EMANDARE VINEYARD SPRING WINE RELEASE! 11-6PM 6798 Norcross Rd 250-957-4075 SPRING PAINTING WORKSHOPS Learn to give your furniture new life! 10AM-3PM Embellish Home Decor 115 Kenneth St Call to register 250746-9809 $125 SYLVAN UNITED CHURCH ANNUAL SPRING FLING SALE Books Plants Baking Clothing Silent Auction Food Concession Good stuff 10AM-2PM Sylvan United Church 985 Shawnigan Mill Bay Rd

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COWICHAN HEALING ARTS EXPO 10AM-5PM Duncan Community Lodge 2244 Moose Rd $10/ >16 FREE cowichanhealingarts.org

AVERILL CREEK VINEYARD SPRING OPEN HOUSE 11- 5PM complimentary wine tastings ‘Ole Johnson Blues Band’&Farms Gate food truck 6552 North Rd www. averillcreek.ca THROWING CLINIC w/MARY FOX Clay Hub 1-4PM, 2375 Koksilah Rd. Cowichan Stn theclayhubcollective@ gmail.com QUAKER (FRIENDS) SILENT MEETING 10:30AM St. Ann’s Garden Club Providence Farm www. cowichanvalley.quaker.ca FREE also 05/21 SUNDAY JAZZ 2PM Groovin’ Hard Band Crofton Pub $15 LIVE MUSIC 4-7PM Bridgemans Bistro Mill Bay Marina also 21/28 A STRINGTIME CELEBRATION SUNDAY 2:30PM Cowichan Camerata String Orchestra St. Edward’s Church 2085 Maple Bay Rd A $15 C $5 Family $30 PIANIST BRUCE VOGT: ULTIMATE VISIONS 2PM St Michael’s Church 2858 Mill St Tickets 250-748-8383 A$20/>18 $15/ Adv $17

A WALK TO REMEMBER COWICHAN HOSPICE 10 AM Providence Farm Registration 10AM Walk 11AM By Donation

VOTING DAY! For BC Election 8AM-8PM Read up on your candidates at onecowichan.ca Need a ride? 250-701-3134

MASALA SAUCE DEMONSTRATION w/ PAM 6 -7:30PM Scoops Natural Foods Whippletree Junction $15

COWICHAN BIO-DIESEL COOP Open House (businesses & govt) 2-4:30pm Bings Creek Recycling Centre, 3900 Drinkwater Rd BEATLEMANIA TRIBUTE The Deaf Aids 7PM Beantime 18 High St Ladysmith $10

FAMILY FUN IN COBBLE HILL CHILDREN & APPLE PIE FAIR! 10AM-3PM the Cobble Hill Fairgrounds COWICHAN BIO-DIESEL CO-OP Open House 10am -3pm Bings Creek Recycling Ctr, 3900 Drinkwater Rd SAVORY, SAGE, ROSEMARY & THYME 7:30PM Christian Reform Church 930 Trunk Rd 250-715-1568 encorewomenschoir.com $20 door/ $15 in Adv/>12 $5 FREE YIN YOGA CLASS WITH NADIA 6-7:30PM Harmony Yoga Centre 360 Duncan MET OPERA LIVE IN HD Der Rosenkavalier 9:30AM Cowichan Performing Arts Centre A$27/ S$25/ Sts$23 / C$16/ eyeGO $5 DANCE-A-THON Fundraiser for an Immigrant Welcome Centre 1 0AM-6PM Charles Hoey Park festival@cis-iwc.org KIMCHI WORKSHOP w/RENEE 12-2PM Scoops Natural Foods Whippletree Junction 778-422-3310 $40 SHIMMY MOB! Bellydance Benefit for CWAV 9AM Coffee on the Moon 9:30AM Downtown Market 10:15AM Soulful Memories 11AM the Garage 11:20AM Spinning Ninny 12pm Downtown Market

For full design/build service, give us a call

p 250.746.5372 • coulsondesign@shaw.ca • www.davidcoulsondesign.com

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

SPRING PAINTING WORKSHOPS learn to give your furniture new life! 10AM-3PM Embellish 115 Kenneth St 250-746-9809 $125 THERMOGRAPHY NON-INVASIVE RADIATION-FREE BREAST EXAM Wu Wei Acupuncture & Acupressure clinic For info call 250-710-3581

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THE CROFTON ART GROUP SHOW AND SALE 10AM-5PM s Crofton Senior Centre 1507 Joan Ave

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TEA + SWEETS MOTHERS DAY 10AM-5PM Teafarm

VEGETARIAN MOTHER’S DAY BRUNCH Duncan Garage Café 330 Duncan St SUNDAY JAZZ 2PM Mother’s Day Show Marisha Devoin bass/vocals James Darling/ piano James McRae/ drums Moms FREE accompanied by “child” Crofton Pub 1534 Joan Ave $15 MOTHER’S DAY BRUNCH Seating 10-10:30AM 12pm & 12:30PM Ramada Duncan 140 TCH MOTHERS DAY BRUNCH 11AM & complimentary food pairing with new Rosé 2016 11AM-6PM, Unsworth Vineyards & Restaurant, unsworthvineyards.com AUCTION SUNDAYS 1 PM La Petite Auction House 9684 Chemainus Rd To consign 250 701 2902

“BEAUTY ALL AROUND US” Duncan Choral Society Glenora Farm Bell Choir 7:30 PM Duncan United Church 246 Ingram St $15 COWICHAN VALLEY GREEN DRINKS 5-7PM Craig St Brewpub 3rd Floor (buy your own beer) greendrinks.org FREE

OPEN HOUSE After School In The Kindergarten 2-3 PM Sunrise Waldorf School 2148

Lakeside Rd RSVP 250-743-7253 sunrisewaldorfschool.org

NATIONAL THEATRE LIVE IN HD Saint Joan 7PM Cowichan Performing Arts Centre 2687 James St A$25.50/ S$22.75/ Sts $17.50/ C$17/ eyeGO $5 LENTIL DAHL DEMO W/ PAM 6-7:30PM Scoops Natural Foods Whippletree Junction 778-422-3310 $15

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COWICHAN VALLEY WINE & ARTS FESTIVAL 11AM- 5PM various Valley wineries FREE cowichansoutharts.ca MAPLE BAY MARINA 22ND ANNUAL WOODEN BOAT FESTIVAL 6145 Genoa Bay Rd www. maplebaymarina.com

SUNDAY JAZZ 2PM Vocalist Pat Selman Rob Cheramy/guitar /Don Cox/ bass/Ron Joiner drums Crofton Pub 1534 Joan Ave $15 SACRED CHANT CIRCLE Rivendell Yurt 7-8:30PM contact Sadie sdbartram@gmail.com 250-748-2089 by donation

COWICHAN WATERSHED BOARD SPEAKERS SERIES “Sources and Contemporary Uses of Indigenous Law” Dr John Borrows Canada Research Chair in Indigenous Law 7PM-8:30PM VIU Lecture Hall 140 jill@cowichan watershedboard.ca FREE

TOM COCHRANE Mad Mad World Tour 7:30PM Cowichan Performing Arts Centre 2687 James St cowichanpac.ca Tickets $78.50 STEVE BICK 7PM Providence Farm Chapel 1843 Tzouhalem Rd A$15/ S$10 Providence Farm General Store and eventbrite.ca DAYAN QI GONG Healing Hand Gestures w/Master Michael Tse Glenora Hall 3660 Glenora Rd 250 748 4060

LOW TIDE DAY 10:30 to 2:30PM Kil-pah-las Beach in Cowichan Bay help clean up the estuary or explore the shore with marine biologists lunch and music all ages FREE

VINOTECA AT ZANATTA

FLOWER & GARDEN SHOW 9AM-2PM Cobble Hill Community Hall 3550 Watson Avenue Cobble Hill HOT DOG SALE 113PM CV Shimmy Mob fundraising for CWAV & Somenos House Country Grocer Lk Cowichan THE MEDFORD SINGERS w/ Victoria Mendelssohn Choir, “O Canada - A Musical Journey” to commemorate Canada’s 150th Anniversary Christian Fellowship Church, 57 King George Street, Lake Cowichan $20 /$17 kids under12 free.

Join us for Lunch Wed - Sun. Dinner on the Weekends. Brunch on Sundays. Event Shuttle Available through

vinoteca.ca

COB OVEN 5039 Marshall Rd, Duncan I 250 709 2279 SOURDOUGH BREAD BAKING WORKSHOP 9AM-4PM Cob Oven Kitchen SUNDAY JAZZ 2PM Crofton Centennial Park contact Antoine Pub 1534 Joan Ave Vocalist sproutspopup@gmail.com $120/90 Kim Greenwood $15 REMEMBERING MOUNT PREVOST AUCTION SUNDAY 1PM La Petite HILLCREST SCHOOL 10AM 4350 Auction House 9684 Chemainus Rd Pollock Rd Free To consign 250 701 2902 MARTIN NOLAN w/ TERRY BOYLE THE MEDFORD SINGERS w/ s & YVONNE HERNANDEZ IN Victoria Mendelssohn Choir Christian CONCERT 7:30PM Sussman home Fellowship Church, Duncan United Mill Bay $20 Shadygrove.ca Church $20 /$17 kids under12 free. SOUTH COWICHAN MUSIC JAM - June 2 BIKE TO WORK 7-11PM (on FB) Shawnigan Legion WEEK begins. Various Hall 1625 ShawniganLK-Mill B Rd Locations 29 & 30 6:30-8:30AM Cycle Thearpy PLUM BLOSSOM GONG w/Master BIKE TO WORK WEEK 6:30Michael Tse Qigong Workshop 8:30AM Experience Cycling Registration: Lee Masters 250-748sponsored breakfast station TBA 4060

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Issue 102 May 2017 Published by Cowichan Valley Voice Magazine Editors Sheila & Richard Badman Contact us at: editor@cowichanvalleyvoice.com 250 746 9319 www.cowichanvalleyvoice.com Proofreader Diana Pink

Distribution Mike Andringa

Calendar Layout Nejma Belarbi

For Print ads please Contact Adrienne Richards 250 510 6596 e-mail adrienne@cowichanvalleyvoice.com Next Ad Deadline May 18 for June ISSUE 103 *Non Profit Community Ad Rates available please enquire. FREE COMMUNITY CALENDAR LISTINGS Please send event all on ONE line in this order: Date, Event Title, Time, Location, Cost to: events@cowichanvalleyvoice.com NEXT DEADLINE May 15 for June 2017 Issue 103 Cowichan Valley Voice Magazine reserves the right to omit and/or edit submitted listings due to space limitations SPECIAL THANKS TO THE FOLLOWING VALLEY VOICES Bill Jones, M arlene & Jaco Padrosa, Sara Skoretz, Shelley Lockwood, Terri Lewis, Heather Kaye, Carolyn Morris, Veronica Scott, Dawn Howlett, Amanda Aufochs-Gillespie, Chantay Dayal, JChelsea Abbott, John Scull, Simon Pidcock, Larissa Bouvier, Tamu Miles, David Coulson, Annette Lampson, David Shortill, Tracy Hanson, Ted Leischner, Judith Quinlan, Patrick Amos, Debbie Wood, Carolyn Prellwitz, Hilary Strang, Nicolette and the wonderful staff at the Community Farm Store and the lovely Georgia Nicols. We welcome your story ideas & photo submissions, however Cowichan Valley Voice Magazine reserves the right to omit and/ or edit all submissions for space, clarity, content and style. The opinions expressed in Valley Voice Magazine do not necessarily reflect those of the editor, publishers or other contributors. Please send a query e-mail with your suggested topic prior to sending your article as space is limited and may not always be available. Valley Voice Magazine is distributed through 450 + select locations throughout the Cowichan Valley- Malahat, Mill Bay, Shawnigan Lake, Cherry Point, Duncan, Cowichan Bay, Crofton, Chemainus and Salt Spring Island and to Cowichan Lake, Ladysmith, Victoria, Tofino, Parksville and Courtenay. Cover Image: Cowichan Bay by Jeremy Koreski Born and raised in Tofino, B.C., Jeremy Koreski has been working as an outdoor photographer and cinematographer since the early 2000s www.jeremykoreski.com

INCREASE YOUR BUSINESS This Summer 2017 rate cards now available Contact Adrienne Richards

250 510 6596

adrienne@cowichanvalleyvoice.com

OUR COMMUNITY May Events 4-5 Candidates Page 24-25 Dance A Thon 39 Downtown Duncan Small in a Big Way 48-52 Many Hands Make Light Work 55 Cowichan Bio Diesel Co op Open House58 Viridian Solar Panel Install at Cowichan Green Community 59 A Piece of the Sun 62 Directory of Local Services 64-65 Community Farm Store Pages 66-67 Remembering Mount Prevost Hillcrest School 68 Teach an Individual to Fish 68 LNG Dream is a Nightmare 71 LOCAL FOOD & DRINK Old MacDonald’s Farm 10 Local Asparagus from Pedrosa Farm 11 Spot Prawns 12-13 Pizza Nights are Back 15 Altered Olives Vintage Market Blue Grouse Winery 16 Averill Creek Open House 16 The Big Reveal and Open House at Rocky Creek 17 Mother’s Day Winemakers Picks 18-19 Cowichan-Grown Has Never Tasted Better 23 Cob Oven Sourdough Workshop Centre 38 FARM & GARDEN Old MacDonald’s Farm 10 Local Asparagus from Pedrosa Farm 11 Connecting, Step by Step 28 Hive Share: Bees in the Garden 43 Creating Successful Hanging Baskets 44 Designing Green Large Features 45 Flower & Garden Show 47 Tips to Create Bee Gardens on the West Coast Islands 60 LOCAL ARTS Local Artists on Show 8 Encaustic Artist, Alanna Sparanese 9 Tom Cochrane Live at the Cowichan Performing Arts 22 Creative Passions 30 The Musical Mission Of The Glenora Farm Bell Choir 46 CHILDREN & FAMILY Crib Mattresses: Are they all the same? 32 Natural Mama and Baby Gifting 33 Family Fun in Cobble Hill Children & Apple Pie Fair! 34 Evergreen Independent School 35 Freya-Sophia Waldorf Store Page 36 Waldorf Schools Celebrate May Day World Wide 37 BODY, MIND & SOUL Holistic Health Coach Denise McLean 26 Cowichan Healing Arts Expo! 27 A Present for Mom’s Feet 29 Qigong Seminars with Master Michael Tse 31 Okido Yoga 54 What is a Silent Quaker Meeting? 68 Horoscopes By Georgia Nicols 69 PETS, RECREATION & NATURE Low Tide Day 40 Spring Whales 41 Maple Bay Wooden Boat Festival 53 Bike to Work Week 56 Cycling Ticks all the Boxes 57 Kittens 62 Lucky Dogs...Raw feeding FAQS... 63 David Suzuki 70

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

oin us for the 47th annual Cowichan Valley Fine Arts Show – one of Vancouver Island’s largest open art exhibitions and sales. The Cowichan Valley Arts Council is proud to provide this wonderful opportunity for over 140 artists and artisans to showcase their original works of art. The Cowichan Valley Fine Arts Show is unique in that all artists are invited to enter. The jury process occurs after the artists have entered the show. This allows artists at all stages of the journey to be a part of this exhibit. Included in this are students from the Youth Outreach Program run by the Cowichan Valley Arts Council. The jury will adjudicate the show prior to opening and award one “Best in Show”, five “Award of Excellence” and ten “Honorable Mention” awards. People who attend the show will submit the name of their favorite piece in order to grant the “People’s Choice Award”. The Cowichan Valley Fine Arts Show are excited to have artists from all parts of the island. Participating artists this year

Local Artists on Show are: Georrence Abma, Abwren, Ashley Affleck, Richard Andrews, Jim Armstrong, Sheila Badman, Cheryl Bakke Martin, Mary-Jane Bateman, Allison Berg, Penny Boden, Brenda Boreham, Peggy Brackett, Wendy Bradshaw, Raina Alyssa, Judy Brayden, Sharron Campbell, Linda Carr, Rina Chase, Joanne Circle, George Cruickshank, Sandi Cruickshank, Michele Debau, Lois DeEll, Dennis Del Torre, Daniel Deschamps, Tatyana Deynega, Shirley Dickie, Miles Dobson, Susan Down, Donna Draper, Pauline Dueck, Robert English, Maureen Fatin, Neil Fatin, Susan

“Live the Island Dream” Nick Brown

Realtor/Associate Broker Pemberton Holmes 23 Queens Rd, Duncan, BC 250-710-3732 nickbrownrealestate@shaw.ca

47th ANNUAL

Fenwick, Mary Fox, Brigette Furlonger, Roxanne Garand, Allan Willian Garbutt, Anais Gerber, Nan Goodship, Jennifer Griller, Charlotte Haggart, Ellie Hallman, Lou Hammond, Kris Harley-Jesson, Lynn Harnish, Willie Harvie, Alicia Hatcher, Megan Heenan, Michael Heinrich, Rosalin Heard Carelse, Linda Helms, Eliza Hawkins, Bill Hibberd, Laurel Hibbert, Lana Hiscock, Tanis Humeny, Beckie Hutchinson, Alison Irwin, Roger Jackson, Sung Jun Jang, Colin (Ted Jarvis), Cathi Jefferson, Anika Jensen, Susan Koch, Beverly Koski, Suzan Kostiuck, Judy Kozler leger, Joan Langtry, Elizabeth LaRose, Patricia Lawton, Cheryl Linton-Julian, Live Edge Design, Jo Ludwig, Barbara Lyon, Rory Macdonald, Cim MacDonald, Janet Magdanz, Jim Malo, Nathalie Mansey, Zosia Miller, Wilma Millette, Joanne Mitchell, Rhiana Moore, Joane Moran, Nancy Morgantini, Ernest Paul Murray, Carrie Nelson, Varner Nickle, Dan Norman, Astrid Notte, Julie Nygaard, Nancy Oliver, Robert Parkinson, Rena

Parsey, Shannon Peck, Julie Pyon, Patricia M. Rankin, Ursula E. Rettich, Linda Richter, Gill Riordan, Richard Riordan, Gail Robb, Bev Robertson, Gail Robertson, John Robertson, April Robinson, Joerg Rosenthal, Beverly Russell, Karola Schabernak, Bonnie Schmaus, E. Maureen Sealey, Naomi Searl, Karen Severson, Nik Sylvan, Gwen Smith, Peter Spohn, Ruth Spohn, Carla Stein, Catherine Taron, Anne Tastad, Bev Thompson, David Thompson, Pauline Thompson, Jen Tinsley, Rachel Twizell, Jaspar Van Rijn, Taylor Walters, Joan Werner, Pat Wheatley, Susan Jean Whyte, Lynn Williams, Katelyn Wills, Corrine Wilson, Leola Witt-McNie, Yuko Yamamoto, Shengwen Yang, Maggie Young, Richard Young, Linda Yurgensen, Claudia Ziegler The show is held in PORTALS and the Cowichan Suite at the Island Savings Centre, 2687 James St. in Duncan. The hours of the show are from Wednesday May 3-Friday May 5 from 10-8, Saturday May 6 from 10-5 and Sunday May 7 from 11-3.

Cowichan Valley’s Largest Open Art Exhibition & Sale

Wednesday May 3rd - Sunday May 7th, 2017 Viewing Hours: Wednesday to Friday 10am - 8pm, Saturday 10 - 5pm, Sunday 11 - 3pm Admission $5.00 - 12 & under Free PORTALS & Cowichan Suite • Island Savings Centre, 2687 James St., Duncan www.cowichanvalleyartscouncil.ca 250.746.1633 cvartscouncil@shaw.ca

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

Where Blue Shadows Fall

Encaustic Artist, Alanna Sparanese

xcellent Frameworks - Home of the EJ Hughes Gallery is proud to present a new body of work by encaustic artist, Alanna Sparanese. “‎The Sky Beckons” creates a beautiful sense of serenity and lightness with this challenging waxen medium. Working with the encaustic medium and incorporating mixed media, she finds the possibilities endless as to what can manifest on canvas. Finding the medium both exciting and versatile to work with, she uses various elements of interest; collage, transfer, photographs, drawings and written material. Oil paints, dry pigments and oils sticks are used to create the desired colour palette

of choice. From here… molten layers of pigmented wax are fused onto a substrate, rendering a luscious depth and transparent luminosity….speaking to both the visceral and tactile senses. Alanna finds her muse with a heightened awareness of all that nature offers, from the glorious enveloping sky to the statuesque trees reaching as though full of hope, faith, strength…to the intricate nature of the birdlife, here on Vancouver Island, in constant flow. “My artwork aims to reveal the beautiful in the everyday, the strength in the fragile, the perfection in the imperfection, and the connection between the human spirit and the natural world”.

MARGOT PAGE

Enamelling on Copper and Steel

Studio Visits by Appointment 250-746-8446 7113 Osborne Bay Rd, Duncan I www.margotpage.com

Artist Talk on Thursday, May 4th 6-8pm: “Talking Encaustic with Alanna”. Refreshments provided, all ages welcome. Excellent Frameworks, 28 Station St. Duncan Show runs to May 29.

May 3-29 “The Sky Beckons” Encaustics by Alanna Sparanese Special Art Night May 4, 6-8pm Excellent Frameworks EJ Hughes Gallery 28 Station St., Downtown Duncan 250 746 7112 www.excellentframeworks.ca

e might as well be right out a children’s nursery rhyme for everywhere Cam MacDonald of Ol’ MacDonald Farm goes, it seems, something green grows at every step. It sounds fantastical but it’s actually not far from the truth. Cam’s partner Paulina explains that before the expectant parents moved to Cowichan from Vancouver just over 6 years ago, Cam was already well into urban growing – every spring, their city apartment transformed into a veritable greenhouse full of trays of seedlings, spilling out onto the balcony, into bedrooms, and on every shelf and window sill. “Cam could grow food on a spaceship if that’s where he lived” laughs Paulina.

Old MacDonald’s Farm

Lori Austein, C.C.H.T., C.C.T.

Helping you create personal transformation •Certified Council Trainer & Facilitator •Certified Heart-Centered Hypnotherapist® •Transpersonal Life Coach Individual Hypnotherapy, Coaching Sessions & Workshops to Create Healthy New Patterns For Your Life: • Improve Relationships • Resolve Anxiety • Increase Self-esteem

• Heal Trauma • Get Unstuck • End Emotional Eating

Authentic Change for an Authentic Life www.loriaustein.com I (250) 597-7459 I leaustein@gmail.com

Cam started at a community garden in Vancouver, moving on to urban farming with gardens spread all over the city and a small CSA. He came to the Valley seeking more space to farm but now cultivates just a quarter acre of land, split between two different properties off Gibbins Road. It is all part of a very deliberate faming ethos. “My mantra,” explains Cam, “has become small, simple, and easy” and he credits the book The Lean

Farm for reinforcing his beliefs. Cam makes careful planting decisions based on labour, growing space and time, versus what piques his customers’ tastebuds. Cam farms using organic methods focusing on soil health through no-till practice and relies on a close network of family and friends who trade labour for veggies and a great hot lunch. Ol’ MacDonald Farm’s delicious greens and veggies are available year-round through the Duncan Farmer’s Market, direct from the farm (250-597-0313) via phone order, and of course every Thursday with the Cow-op online marketplace, www.cow-op.ca.

Great care must be taken not to damage the crown as other spears are emerging. Once the asparagus is picked, it is washed twice and then put into a cooler where the temperature must be just above 0 degrees C, to cool the spears, otherwise they will keep growing and the natural sugars will change the taste and texture of the asparagus to starch. Jaco Pedrosa holding his own grown asparagus. Photo courtesy Don Genova

Asparagus has a unique combination of anti-inflammatory nutrients and provides anti-oxidants nutrients which include vitamin C, vitamin A, and vitamin E. Antiinflammatory and anti-oxidant nutrients provide some of the best risk reducers for type 2 diabetes and heart disease. They have anti-cancer properties as well and are an excellent source of folic acid (important during pregnancy). They are a good source of fibre, supplying about 3 grams per cup of which 2 grams are insoluble fibre and one gram of soluble fibre.

Local Asparagus From Pedrosa Farm

hat is so special about asparagus? Its longevity as one of the first sought after spring vegetables attests to the fact that it is depicted on the walls of Egyptian tombs around 3000BC. Asparagus is a once a year crop being available for a short season from mid to late April and May. The land that asparagus is grown is dedicated to this crop only. The rhizome of the asparagus lies deep below the ground surface. The best soil to have it growing in is sandy clean soil which does not allow fungus to grow, as clay soils are prone to. Our sandy soil keeps the asparagus plants healthy and establishes long roots that reach deep into the earth and search for moisture. Asparagus grows best when the soil temperature is 9 degrees C and up. When the spears break through the soil and reach 8” to 12” each spear is cut by hand, one at a time, using a special knife, 1 1/2” below the soil line.

After the four to five short weeks of harvest, the asparagus is left to grow into ferns that supply nutrients to the crowns for next years crop and develops strength in the roots. During the summer months it must be watered underground. When the ferns go brown and dry in the fall this indicates growth is finished. This is then chipped with a flail mower and the chippings are left to add organic matter to the soil for subsequent years.

The simplest way to prepare asparagus is to peel the stem ends, do not snap ends off as there is valuable stock beneath. Put in a steamer or a pan with little water, after several minutes (or less) put a sharp knife tip into the spear and when you see bubbles coming out, immediately take off the heat and plunge in cold water to stop cooking. Pour over extra virgin olive oil, sautéed garlic, coarse sea salt, and grated Spanish Manchego cheese and awaken your taste buds after a long winter drought.

It is a beautiful sight to see the brown soil; then purple and green spears popping up all over; then the lush green ferns developing which grow about 5 to 7 feet in height and finally turning to gold then brown. It is an amazing transformation to witness.

Eat, Drink and Support Local

Call 250-733-0700, when the season begins for daily recordings, indicating days and hours of operation. 1550 Robson Lane, Cowichan Bay. www.asparagusfarmplus.com Submitted by Marlene and Jaco Pedrosa

Spot Prawns • Restaurant • Deli • CAFÉ • Grocery •

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

1751 Cowichan Bay Road 250 748 0020 croweandappel.ca

Offering fresh seafood, gluten free and paleo friendly menu of soups, broths, pies, jumbo sushi rolls, salads and salad rolls. Always wild, pastured and organic. Join us in Cowichan Bay for some great food events! Saturday Night Dinners with live music celebration Sunday Brunch with wilderness skills for all the family

NEW SPRING Hours Wednesday through Sunday 11am-5:30pm

Che ck our out N Sp r EW in Me n g u!

LET US KNOW IT’S YOUR FIRST VISIT FOR 10% OFF YOUR MEAL

ne of the finer discoveries I’ve made on the island is the Pacific Spot Prawn. Sometimes called Red Prawns, the spot is the largest of seven local prawn species. It is known for its delicious, sweet flavour and is a highly prized delicacy in places like Japan and Hong Kong.

JOIN US FOR OUR BIRTHDAY WEEKEND!

MAY 5, 6 & 7

All diners will get a free piece of birthday cake and be entered in a draw for 2 VIP Passes to Sunfest

The commercial fresh season for spot prawns starts in May and continues usually until (or whenever the Fisheries Department shut down the harvest. Spot prawns are part of a sustainably managed fisheries and the size of the harvest is regulated with the health of the local population. The fresh prawn is delicate and a key tip is to remove the head as soon as possible. There is an enzyme in the head that turns the flesh mushy. Quickly processing the shrimp will limit this action.

LIVE MUSIC ON SUNDAYS! 4 - 7PM (except May 14)

Mother’s Day is Special

May 14

Treat mom for a waterside brunch, lunch or dinner.

DELICIOUS WATERFRONT DINING 7 DAYS A WEEK OPEN MON - FRI 11:30am / SAT & SUN 10am

MILL BAY MARINA • 740 HANDY RD • 778-356-3568 www.bridgemans.ca 12

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

Upcoming EVENTS May 13

After cleaning the prawns are often frozen in tubs of salted water. Stored this way they will keep nicely for up to one year. You can find the fresh prawns live in several seafood stores, or you can try your luck at the dock in Cowichan Bay or Chemanius when the commercial boats head to the dock. Sometime they will post signs on the roadway if these sales are happening. We always start with a tasting of prawns simply sauted with either butter and garlic or a splash of grapeseed oil, ginger

and fresh chilies. That first taste is always the most magical and a wonderful part of late spring on the west coast. The shells make a great stock to flavour things like bisques or chowders. Try this variation made with the Thai flavours of herbs, spices and coconut milk. Join us on the farm for cooking classes and dinners featuring spot prawns in season. More details at www.deerholme.com.

Thai-Flavoured Spot Prawn Bisque Courtesy Chef Bill Jones, Deerholme Farm

Flavours of Peru Dinner

May 20

BC Spot Prawns Cooking Class

For full details visit www.deerholme.com BY RESERVATION ONLY

4830 Stelfox Rd, Duncan

For ReservationS 250 748 7450 Gift Baskets Gift Certificates Meat & Cheese Platters Cocktail Supplies Gourmet Foods

1 lb (454 g) Spot Prawns 1 Tbsp (5 mL) salt 1 tsp (5 mL) sugar 2 large carrots, peeled and chopped 1 stalk celery, chopped 1 large onion, peeled and chopped 8 cups (2 L) water 4 slices fresh ginger 1 head garlic, chopped 1 stalk lemon grass, trimmed and cut in chunks 1 bunch cilantro (stems and stocks) 1 lime juice and zest 1 can coconut milk 2 Tbsp (30 mL) cornstarch (mixed with equal cold water) Salt and pepper to taste Fresh cilantro leaves (or basil) Peel prawns (reserve shells) and place in a shallow metal or glass tray, sprinkle lightly with salt and sugar. Cover with boiling water and let sit for 5 minutes, drain and chill. Place shells on a baking tray and place in a 350 F (180 C) oven. Roast the shells for 15 minutes, or until they have lightly browned. In a stock pot, add a little oil and add the onion, carrot and celery. Saute until they begin to brown, add water and bring to a simmer. Add the prawns shells, ginger slices, lemon grass, cilantro stems, lime juice, zest and coconut milk. Bring to a boil, reduce heat and simmer for 1 hour. Strain soup, check seasoning and adjust with salt and pepper (or hot sauce if you like it spicy). Mix the cornstarch with cold water and slowly whisk into the hot soup. The mixture will thicken as it heats. Before serving stir in the cilantro leaves and cooked prawns. Serve immediately.

locally grown, organic and delicious

Ol’ MacDonald Farm SPRING PICKins’ Spinach, arugula, Asian mix, salad mix, happy free run eggs and Mila’s beautiful FLOWERS Visit our booth at the Saturday Market on Ingram St

Fundraiser Sylvan United, your friendly church over in Mill Bay and just adjacent to the Frances Kelsey High School, invites you to our annual fair, the Spring Fling for a fun-filled afternoon of shopping and meeting friends. The meditational labyrinth will be open, you can see our church, fellowship hall and stroll through the labyrinth during your visit. If you like the fair, maybe you’ll drop in for Sunday services, each Sunday at 10 AM - everyone welcome. Music Mosaic features local musicians last Sunday of the month.Please join us Saturday, May 6 10am-2pm 985 Shawnigan Mill Bay Rd, Mill Bay.

A Walk to Remember Cowichan Hospice Enjoy a beautiful 1 or 3 kilometer walk through the

forest and a stroll through the labyrinth in support of Hospice Care for Cowichan. Come out with friends and family to walk in memory of a loved one, or simply to enjoy the fresh air and scenery. Sunday, May 7, Providence Farm Registration begins at 10 am Walk begins at 11 am By donation. Light refreshments provided.

Throwing Clinic With Mary Fox Mary Fox (Fox that Pots) from Ladysmith will be sharing her expertise in a Throwing Clinic at the Clay Hub. In a short period of time Mary will discover where each participant is in their journey with clay and the questions they have for that day. She will then work with each participant to move them forward to improve their own practice. The Clinic will be held on May 7, 1-4 at the Clay Hub, 2375 Koksilah Rd. Cowichan Station. Registration details at theclayhubcollective@gmail. com.

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

Pizza Nights are Back!

oin us at the farm and enjoy views of field, mountain and ocean while our Highland cows placidly graze. Our pizza nights were inspired from wanting to share a love for farm fresh food, good times with friends and family all in a unique and special atmosphere, much like a community farm picnic. All of our pizzas are made from scratch, using our own produce. We specialize in raising Highland cattle, Berkshire pigs, seasonal chickens with care and the attention and space that all creatures should have. All the pizzas are skillfully made by our team. A good fire and a hot oven is key. Using our own farm-grown hardwood (alder, maple and sometimes wild cherry), the fire is lit for four hours prior and is nursed until the oven temperature is 600 to 900 degrees F. We can cook up to 6 pizzas at one time. The pizzas make their way around

the oven in about two minutes, rotated by our pizza chef for a nice even bubbly finish. At this point the pizzas are taken out and additional sauces or toppings are added before slicing and then off to you to take and enjoy. Each pizza is unique in its own way from start to finish. Each week we have a few different pizza options for you to try also additional toppings are available for those who like to create their own pizzas Gluten free crust options are always available as well as a variety of side options such as salads, fresh salsa and chips and desserts. We are proud to announce that this year we also have a nutritionist on our team who will be looking at new ways to introduce more healthy options to menu. It all goes hand in hand, we created our own market and by doing so ended up farming more than we ever have before. It has been so amazing to see and to expand into other livestock, methods and produce. It really became a full circle venture and adventure! Our farm market this year has responded to the increased demand for our line of farm products. We will have up to 20 different fresh and frozen farm food items that we will have available for sale. Submitted by Sara Skoretz

Sylvan United

Annual

SpringFLING Fundraiser

May 6

10am-2pm Plants, books, clothing, good stuff, bake sale, food concession, music and kids area. 985 Shawnigan Mill Bay Rd Mill Bay next to Frances Kelsey.

time family-owned winery, Blue Grouse produces exceptional Cowichan Valley wines which express their place of origin – and a lot of personality, to boot! Elegant, fresh, cool-climate style, rich in balanced acidity, and intense in flavor, Blue Grouse wines are meant to be enjoyed

and sure to be remembered. If you haven’t seen the new tasting room – this is your chance to check it out and plan your summer wine visit! Saturday, May 6 11-4pm. located at Blue Grouse Estate Winery 2182 Lakeside Rd, Duncan.

Altered Olives Vintage Market Blue Grouse Winery

oin us for a beautiful day filled with vintage shopping, creative artisans, speciality vendors, a food truck and wine! Altered Olives hosts a vintage market at Blue Grouse Estate Winery & Vineyard! Expect an exclusive enjoy a shopping opportunity from an array of talented artisans & vendors. This Vintage Market is fun for the whole family and will be an indoor and outdoor event. Come early with your coffee in hand

or join us for a scrumptious afternoon lunch with the Taco Revolution food truck. We hope this opportunity allows you to grab that exceptional something for that special someone or maybe even a gift for yourself? It is best to plan ahead and bring cash to this event, many vendors do not accept debit/credit. We highly recommend this just in case you fall in love with something. For faster entrance, carpool - but if you are looking for a dining table or a larger piece of furniture - by all means bring the truck! Blue Grouse Winery will be open for wine tasting and purchases of wine by the glass or even a bottle to take home. A special event to sit back, relax and enjoy all of what the Cowichan Valley has to offer. We will have fantastic vendors, delicious food and of course wonderful wine tasting and spectacular views of the Cowichan Valley.

Averill Creek Open House

ou’re invited to kick off the 2017 season with Averill Creek Vineyard at our annual spring open house. Enjoy complimentary wine tastings and winery tours, live music on the patio featuring the Ole Johnson Blues Band and a delicious menu from Farms Gate food truck. This is a once-a-year opportunity to sample all of our products, including brand-new releases and the premium “Somenos Series” wines.

first opportunity to sample the 2016 Charme de L’ile, Pinot Grigio, Rosé and Foch Eh plus the 2015 Somenos Pinot Gris and the 2014 Pinot Noir.

We are pleased to announce the official return of many of our customer favourites. Visit our spring open house for the

Averill Creek Vineyard Spring Open House,Sunday May 7, 11am to 5pm 6552 North Road, Duncan

At Averill Creek Vineyard we are passionate about creating premium quality estate wines from our 30 acre Cowichan Valley vineyard. Set on the south slope of Mt. Prevost, our modern tasting room and garden patio offer spectacular ocean and valley views.

A little information about Blue Grouse Estate Winery & Vineyard: As one of Vancouver Island’s oldest estate vineyards and a long-

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

his event is for all wine and foodie lovers of all that’s local. We have been operating for 12 years and decided to do a refresh with a new look. Discover our story “from corporate suits to gumboots”. This year, we are in a new chapter of our lives as our daughters are off to study. We’ve increased our size to give the people visiting us regularly a new experience. Sometimes, the tasting room was a little tight but we made up for it in the experience. Now we hope to give everyone more “breathing space”. Come and see.

The Big Reveal and Open House at Rocky Creek

Spaciz Design created a “modern speakeasy” design. With great help from Dorma Construction, unique wood pieces and stains from HandCrafted ByKaydenDorma, lights from McLaren Lighting, fabulous garage door from Accent Garage Doors, Thermoproof Windows in Chemainus and many visits to Windsor Plywoo, Rona, and

others. For the open house, winemaker Mark Holford, is planning to bring back his cooking demos outside. We will give you a demonstration of one of our recipes and like the cooking shows you can have a taste of it and take home a copy of the recipe. We will also be giving out FREE tastings that day. After the tastings, think about staying outside for quick snacks to purchase with a glass, flight or bottle of wine.Big Reveal & Open House Rocky Creek Winery, May 6, 1854 Myhrest Road, Cowichan Bay 250-748-5622 www.rockycreekwinery.ca

NEW SPRING RELEASES

BLUE GROUSE WINERY Quill Pinot Gris 2016, $20 This delightful, new wine for Blue Grouse, is crisp and bright exhibiting notes of green apple, jasmine flower and honey on the nose. It is characterized by a round mouthfeel, with honey and citrus fruits on the palate and finishes with medium acidity. Get some West Coast halibut, crab or local goat cheese and make Mom and this Pinot Gris lovely dinner companions!

AVERILL CREEK VINEYARD 2015 Somenos Pinot Gris, $22 This delightful, new wine for Blue Grouse, is crisp and bright exhibiting notes of green apple, jasmine flower and honey on the nose. It is characterized by a round mouth-feel, with honey and citrus fruits on the palate and finishes with medium acidity. Get some West Coast halibut, crab or local goat cheese and make Mom and this Pinot Gris lovely dinner companions!

UNSWORTH VINEYARDS RosĂŠ 2016, $20.78 Our newly released RosĂŠ 2016 offers vibrant, wild strawberries and cranberries with a dry finish and savoury herbal character. It is a perfect accompaniment to Mediterranean dishes, pork dishes or simply a sunny patio.

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

FOR MOTHER’s Day ROCKY CREEK WINERY TLC, $20

Try some TLC: What a great title to give as a gift for your mother. Off Dry. Reference to Linda whose germatic name refers to soft, tender and beautiful. This is a unique blend of Viognier, Albarino, Pinot Gris, Siegerrebe, and Ortega. It has floral aromas is soft and easy drinking. Our value price wine. But we like our blends, as they are the winemaker’s signature. This vintage is from the hottest year since we began yielding beautiful delicate aromas. This sold out in no time and is a small batch wine. This is a field blend not a blended set of wines from the winery. ZANATTA VINEYARD Damasco This year we are all hoping for a warm and sunny Mothers’ Day! With the image of a sunny afternoon relaxing with Mom surrounded by spring flowers, the best wine I can think of to complement this scene would be a chilled Damasco. Since our first release of Damasco 18 years ago it has won the heart of Cowichan Valley wine sippers. It is a casual white wine that is light in alcohol, fresh and fruity with a slight effervescence. Damasco will please your palate whether you are eating pretzels or sushi. MERRIDALE CIDER Jalisco Cidre, $10 Senor Apple lost the Mexican standoff resulting in this refreshing real lime cidre. This seasonal pays homage to our familia in Jalisco, Mexico where limons grow everywhere. Back sweetened with agave syrup to give even more of that south of the border mouth feel, finishing slightly off dry to be enjoyed throughout the summer.

Tea & Sweets For Motherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Day Treat Mom to a three course Tea+Sweet Pairing Experience that includes decadent cake, seasonal sorbet and a chocolate delight to finish. Your sweets are accompanied by a fabulous selection of organic loose teas all served in our cozy tearoom and bucolic garden setting. Motherâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Day Weekend Saturday+Sunday May 13+14

10am-5pm $18/person reservations required, 8350 Richards Trail, Westholme 250.748.3811 westholmetea.com

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

Sourdough Workshop in Cob Oven

ommunity ovens were once an integral part of the social fabric of many communities worldwide, much like town squares and local markets. Families would bring their doughs ready to be baked as well as roasts and whatever they fancied. In recent times, there’s been a revival in community ovens and we’re so fortunate to have our very own rocket fired version at the Community Cob Kitchen in Centennial Park, Duncan. What is baked in a rocket fired oven has all the wonderful flavours of something cooked with fire. Its unique advantage is that it uses much less wood than traditional ovens, making for a more efficient and environmentally friendly design. Antoine’s first introduction to bread baking was with a wood fired oven that was built in the 1890’s. This experience ignited his passion for woodfired sourdough bread. Since 2012 he has been sharing this passion by teaching bread baking to aspiring home

bakers, giving workshops around the world. Antoine will be offering a hands-on cob oven sourdough bread baking workshop at the Community Cob Kitchen. Participants will make their own dough and learn the basic methods used in sourdough bread baking. Tips will also be shared about baking in electric ovens at home. While the doughs rise in a warm spot on top of the oven, people can help out with preparing pizzas to enjoy together for lunch – Stowaway Olive Pizzeria style! At the end of a fun and inspiring day of baking, students will take home their own piping hot loaf of bread. It is a simple recipe; when people gather to make food, share stories and laughter, surely a good time is to be had! May 27, Cob Oven Sourdough Bread Baking Workshop 9-4PM Cob Oven Kitchen Centennial Park 120/90 per person contact Antoine sproutspopup@ gmail.com

Green Drinks Brush Lettering Workshop with Dalyce Crossley Celebrate your Mama with a beautiful hand lettered print! Join the Ou Gallery’s brush lettering workshop led by Dalyce Crossley of December Studio Art. Using a traditional Japanese brush, you will be guided through basic & creative lettering techniques. Picnic lunch included, all ages welcome. Saturday May 13, 11-3pm @ the Ou Gallery. Picnic lunch included. Register here: www.theougallery.com 3091 Agira Road, Duncan.

Sunday Jazz Mother’s Day Show Marisha Devoin Trio live on Mother’s Day. Marisha is a session musician/educator in Nanaimo and can be heard singing and bassing in jazz, blues, bluegrass and R&B groups in the area. Both James Darling and James McRae are busy musicians on the island. Sunday, May 14, Crofton Pub, 1534 Joan Ave, Crofton 2pm $15. Free for mothers when accompanied by an adult child.

Cowichan Valley Green Drinks is a quarterly event for socializing and networking with people involved or interested in the environmental field. There a currently Green Drinks in 537 cities world-wide. Open to everyone. Buy your own drinks and food. May 15, 5-7pm, Craig St Brew Pub, 3rd Floor.

Tom Cochrane Live at the Cowichan Performing Arts Centre Tom Cochrane makes his way to Cowichan for the final BC performance of his Mad Mad World Tour with Red Rider. It’s been 25 years since the release of Tom Cochrane’s landmark album, Mad Mad World, which accelerated the Canadian singersongwriter’s already upward trajectory into the stratosphere. Earlier this year, the never-at-rest artist reunited with bandmates Kenny Greer and Jeff Jones kicking off a cross-Canada tour performing Mad Mad World in its entirety with additional fan favourites. Mad Mad World remains among the top-selling albums in Canadian music history, achieving rare Diamondcertified status on the strengths of such hit singles as the title track, No Regrets, Washed Away, Sinking Like A Sunset, and, of course, Life Is A Highway, which reigned at #1 for six weeks in Canada, reached #6 on the Billboard Hot 100, and went on to become recognized the world

over. This is the final chance in all of BC to see Tom Cochrane and Red Rider on this Mad Mad World Tour. Friday, May 26 at 7:30pm at the Cowichan Performing Arts Centre 2687 James St., Duncan, Cowichan Ticket Centre: 250-748-7529 www.cowichanpac.ca.

Tofino Musician Steve Bick West Coast sounds of Steve Bick. Hailing from Tofino, Steve and his band will be bringing their elemental melodies to the Providence Farm Chapel. Friday, May 26, Doors7pm / Show 7:30pm Tickets $15 adults and $10 youths (18 and under) a www.eventbrite. ca Providence Farm Chapel 1843 Tzouhlem Rd., Duncan. Licensed show.

SUNDAY AFTERNOONS May 7 • 2PM Groovin’ Hard Band

May 14 • 2PM Mother’s Day Special Marisha Devoin (bass/vocals), James Darling (pno), James McRae (drums) Moms are FREE with grown “child”. May 21 • 2PM Vocalist Pat Selman, Rob Cheramy (guitar), Don Cox (bass) & Ron Joiner (drums) May 28 • 2PM Vocalist Kim Greenwood

1534 Joan Avenue Crofton All shows are $15 at the door.

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

farm-fresh produce, artisanal foods, and beverages. The Cowichan-grown farm map showcases this bounty and the talented and hardworking producers behind it – this year, 56 unique farms and agri-businesses all with something distinctive, fresh, and delicious to offer consumers. From seasonal fruits and veggies, wines, ciders, baked goods, honey, tea, seafood, nuts, berries, and meats to more unusual products like steelhead trout, hemp, limes, and balsamic vinegar, local ingredients and products can be easily found by browsing listings on the map or using the online search component at cowichangreencommunity. org/foodmap. Search by farm name, product type, production method, or location.

Cowichan-Grown Has Never Tasted Better

he 8th edition of the Cowichan-Grown Farm Map is here! Spanning Shawnigan Lake to south of Nanaimo, this annual guide has been helping Cowichan residents and visitors to the region, search out Cowichangrown food, drink, and value-added products since its inception. Blessed with Canada’s only Maritime-Mediterranean climatic zone, the Cowichan is continually making a name for itself as a region capable of producing a wonderfully diverse range of high-quality

Year ro

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ption

Print maps are also available at Cowichan Green Community’s office at 360 Duncan Street in Duncan (or phone 250748-8506 for other pick-up locations near you).

Submitted by Heather Kaye

Cowichan-Grown newcomers:

Every year, we welcome new farms to the map. Here are some great food-producing folks who have joined the Cowichan-grown map for this year’s growing season: Farm 1740 – Pasture-raised non-GMO poultry, lamb, pork, eggs, veggies and more Cedar Grove – Rhubarb, tomatoes, garlic, peas, beans, herbs, berries Yesteryear Farms – pasture-raised lamb, free-range Berkshire pigs, free-range chickens Cowichan Incubator Seed Farm – Open-pollinated, sustainably-grown seeds and seedlings Learn more about these great producers by picking up a copy of the map or visiting: www.cowichangreencommunity.org/foodmap

availa

MANNA FARM ORGANIC CSA SHARES NOW AVAILABLE ble.

Full Diet Share

NEW

$45/wk per adult Half Diet contact us for child prices (Veggie) Shares Includes free choice of Small (unlimited) organic veggies, (1-3 people) $25/wk fruit, herbs, beans, nuts, Large seeds, eggs, poultry, grain (4-6 people) $35/wk (flour and flakes too!), oil, Big Leaf Maple syrup Includes wide variety of and flowers. organic veggies! www.mannafarm.ca

wearemannafarm@gmail.com

250 510 2958

VOTING DAY IS May 9. What DO These Need a hand deciding who to vote for? Here are a few tips to consider when making your decision on Tuesday, May 9th. 1. Find out who your candidates are: There are 7 candidates in the Cowichan Valley and 4 in the Nanaimo-North Cowichan ridings. Three candidates from each are running with the Green Party, Liberal Party or the New Democratic Party (NDP). The rest are running independently. Regardless of party affiliation, we encourage you to learn more about the candidates themselves. 2. Where do they stand on the issues you care? Some of the candidates are profiled here. You can also read their responses to the One Cowichan #OurElection survey on affordable housing, education, the economy, environment, health care, reconciliation with First Nations, the Cowichan weir and more at onecowichan.ca/2017_candidates. Links to their websites, party platforms and other local sources are also included. 3. Ask questions: Attend an allcandidate debate or contact your candidates directly. A list of questions can also be found at the one. cowichzan.ca link above. Listen for how they plan to work towards achieving their goals. How will they work as a single MLA who may or may not be with the party who forms a majority/minority government? In the end, it will be difficult to find a candidate or party that you agree with 100%. By considering each candidate’s experience, leadership capabilities, positions on issues, their party’s record and platforms; you’ll get a feel for who you believe will get the job done for all of us in Cowichan. www.onecowichan.ca

Sonia Furstenau BC Greens Cowichan Valley

Steve Housser BC Liberals Cowichan Valley

For me politics isn’t just about parties and beliefs. It’s about people, communaities, and the future. It’s about aa sustainable, sound approach to creating a province where everyone has the opportunuty to thrive, and it’s about protecting our environment. It’s about compassionate governance that looks after the people our MLAs are elected to serve - not just the corporate interests that seem to influence every decision coming down from the current government. I am passionate about helping people and building strong communities, and I am eager to work hard for the people of Cowichan Valley.

As the BC Liberal party candidate, I am running to ensure that Cowichan Valley is put back on the radar. For too long the Valley has been left out – not at the table where decisions are made. I will work to promote a strong economy that helps create more jobs so that more people can work and look after their families. The Valley needs a new hospital, dedicated hospice beds, a new high school and much more. I will be your strong voice for Cowichan Valley. On May 9th, please elect Steve Housser for more opportunity for everyone.

Principled Hopeful Realistic Compassionate Innovative

Your Champion for Cowichan Valley

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

FRIENDLY Candidates have to sAY? Contact Info for Featured Candidates Sonia Furstenau luke.c.bcg@gmail.com soniabcgreens.ca Steve Housser housser@bcliberals.com 250-597-0490. www.stevehousser.ca

Lori Iannidinardo BC NDP Cowichan Valley

Ian Scott Morrison Independent Cowichan Valley

Coordinating a local non-profit, I’ve seen what Liberal service cuts, higher Hydro rates and user fees do to people already struggling to make ends meet. I’ve witnessed Liberal cuts to ministries and programs leading to downloading costs to local government. As your MLA in an NDP government I’ll work to end unfair rate hikes and MSP premiums; address the housing crisis; improve health care and seniors care; create $10/day childcare; give our kids quality education; protect our air, land and water; stop LNG development on our shores; and build a sustainable economy with stable living-wage jobs.

A Cowichan Valley resident recently asked me why my emails and letters are signed with “In Service, Ian”. During my 9 years as a local government elected official, I have focused on serving the people. Helping to make our Cowichan Valley a place where families, seniors, students, first nations, minorities, and all citizens can thrive. To work and care for the Cowichan Valley’s environment, water, communities, and jobs. It’s all about listening to what people need and going to work for them in the Legislature. It’s putting the people of the Cowichan Valley First, ahead of party politics.

Affordability, Health, Sustainable, Economy & Environment

Vote Morrison”People before Party’s”

Lori Iannanidinardo iannidinardo@bcndp.ca 250-597-7762 https://loriiannidinardo. bcndp.ca Ian Scott Morrison cowichanvalleyfirst@gmail.com 250-749-0134 (C)250-710-1227 www.cowichanvalleyfirst.com

All candidates in this election were invited to paticipate from Cowichan Valley and Nanaimo - North Cowichan ridings. Only candidates that responded with information were included in this feature.

All organic! Cold-Pressed Juices + Juice Cleanses + Smoothies + Elixirs + Raw Food + Bulletproof Coffee

Try A Glow Cleanse! Whether it’s to lose weight, get in shape, or to start eating healthy, an Organic Glow Juice Cleanse is a great way to accelerate your health goals.

Holistic Health Coach Denise McLean Call, come in, or book online at www.glowjuicery.ca. 250 597 2595 3-5380 Trans Canada Hwy, Duncan

Julia Allen R.C.C. MCP, IMHA, BA

Masters Counselling Psychology Registered Clinical Counsellor

Shamanic Practices, Therpeutic Altered States Therapy

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

n my quest to learn more about alternative healing practitioners, I’ve been spending time with Holistic Health Coach Denise McLean. Here she tells the story of how she became the healer that she is today. SL: Denise, you refer to yourself as a holistic health coach; I like it, especially now that I’m starting to really understand what it is that you do. After recently being on the receiving end of one of your LifeLine sessions, I’ve gained a healthy respect for the power of holistic healing and your methods in particular. What I’m curious about today is, what originally put you on the path to becoming a Holistic Health Coach? DMcL: Well about twenty years ago it seemed to me that a lot more people than usual were talking about being sick. I was often hearing about people being diagnosed with illnesses like thyroid disease or fibromyalgia, for example. Increasingly people I talked to were mentioning feeling exhausted and suffering from chronic fatigue. I began thinking of them as mystery illnesses. Me being me, I became determined to solve the mystery.

I decided to put on my holistic mystery detective hat and got down to business. I gathered information about these mystery illnesses. I began to see patterns like viruses, infections; emotional trauma. I saw that they were on a path toward getting sicker and became determined to find a solution. To find a way so that I could help people suffering from these chronic conditions. So they could enjoy a better quality of life again. I focused on expanding my background into holistic healing practices and health foods. I learned and became certified in the LifeLine Technique among other holistic modalities. It was as if a light bulb came on. Sufferers were affected by the same mystery illness in different ways. Therefore, to be effective the healing plan must vary also. I tailor my healing sessions to the specific needs of each individual. Today I am blessed to coach mystery illness sufferers along their path to selfhealing. SL: Thanks for your answers Denise. It is always a pleasure to enjoy your enthusiasm for healing.

Interview with a Holistic Health Coach www.HolisticCoach.ca Excerpt by Shelley Lockwood

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

Duncan Moose Lodge

Come One, Come All to the Cowichan Healing Arts Expo!

ast fall, James Day and Denise McLean had a vision to bring together the Healing Arts Practitioners of the Cowichan Valley for an afternoon meetand-greet. The result was a beautiful gathering of 75 wellness professionals from around the valley, offering a broad and diverse range of healing arts products and services. From that first meeting, the community has continued to grow and thrive, and is now planning an exciting symposium for the whole community.Join us at the beautiful Duncan Community Lodge overlooking Quamichan Lake for a weekend of wellness for the whole family. Learn about products to enhance wellness of the mind, body, emotions and spirit. Experience deep healing sessions with readers, bodyworkers and energy healing practitioners. Attend fascinating free lectures by leaders in the wellness field. Enjoy the creative expressions of our community artists, craftspeople and musicians. Bring the kids for fun outdoor programs, and feed your cells with tasty nutritious food. There will be practitioners offering sessions of Massage, Tarot Card reading, Reflexology, Homeopathy, LifeLine Technique, Mediumship, Acupuncture,

JODIE MCDONALD, MSW RSW 250-580-2252 jodie@livingandbreathing.ca

Biodynamic Craniosacral Therapy, Aura Imaging, Naturopathy, Reiki, Human Design, Amethyst Biomats, and Shamanic Energy Medicine. Vendors will be offering crystals, lightworker tools, jewelry, natural medicines and herbal remedies for sale. Also included is a full roster of free workshops on Meditation and Movement, Lifeline Technique, Self-Love, Music and Sound Healing, Homeopathy, Self-Hypnosis, Medical Marijuana, Inspiration and Creativity, Mental Health, and a keynote talk by Dr. Joachim Fuchs, MD, on the benefits of Integrative Medicine. Outdoors you can sample free workshops of Qi Gong, Rewilding Dance, Sacred Chant, Plant Medicine Identification, a Grandmothers’ Circle and a Spiral Dance. There will also be nourishing musical offerings by Masimba Marimba, Cheko Soto, Matthew Kinumen and Genevieve Charbonneau. Fred Roland of Cowichan Tribes will drum and sing to open the event on Saturday morning. As a special additional event, on Saturday night there will be “An Evening of Mediumship” with spiritual mediums Ayla “Little Deer Woman” and Al Olson. Tickets for this separate event are $25 which includes dinner of wood-fired pizza. Tickets for this

event and more info are available at www.cowichanhealingarts.org The intention of this weekend is to create space for people to explore the healing arts. All profits will go toward future events and practitioner clinics. There will be wood-fired pizza, smoothies, juices, ayurvedic foods, and vegan and gluten-free options available.

IBP INTEGRATIVE BODY PSYCHOTHERAPISTS COUNSELLING AND HEALING BREATHWORK

Saturday and Sunday May 6th and 7th, 10am-5pm Duncan Community Lodge, 2244 Moose Rd., Duncan Weekend Admission: $10, Ages 16 and under: free Full workshop and speaker schedules can be found at www.cowichanhealingarts.org.

SYBILLE WEBB, MEd 250-715-6957 sybillewebb@shaw.ca

Connecting, Step by Step Carolyn Morris, Organizer of the Homesteading Fair

moved to Vancouver Island with a dream…. to get some land and establish my homestead. I yearned for my home-sweethome; my bubble of abundance in the realm of holistic selfsustenance; my home base for connecting. Life is full of connections; interactions and exchanges that connect us with the things that we both need and want in life. Throughout my life, I have always loved playing that ‘web of life’ game with kids and a ball of yarn. The kids take on a character, and they continue to make connections amongst them. The baker needs the farmer, the farmer needs the blacksmith, the blacksmith needs the cobbler, and the connections go on and on. The result is a wonderfully knotted web of life called ‘community’. In this day and age, we still have the same basic necessities as always but our local community seems to have morphed immensely to a global plain. That cobbler isn’t down the street any more, but rather at a shoe factory in Indonesia. That farmer isn’t down the lane anymore, but rather at the monoculture production acreage in California. There may be much to be said for the ‘conveniences’ and ‘pleasures’ that arise from such changes, but it is quite clear to me and many others that when we lose a direct connection to our basic necessities, we also lose an appreciation for and awareness of the quality, impact and necessity of the foods and products we consume. Humans are curious creatures, and there is something very rewarding about learning the

stories behind those things we depend on. In fact, that need for connection to what we consume becomes crystal clear when we witness the sheer enthusiasm and even joy people feel as they stroll through a farmers’ market on a sunny morning with the jams, carvings or sausage made by the neighbours that live just down the road. Reconnecting with our basic needs is quite a journey. Like every journey, it starts with small steps. In my case, food is my primary passion on my path to self-sustainability. I grow what I can, preserve what I’m able and save seeds for the next season. I love sharing the 101 of organic vegetable gardening with others, and watching them take off with enthusiasm as they plant those same seeds in their gardens. Anyone who has grown their own food knows that it tastes better than anything you could ever buy! Such obvious rewards fuel the passion for further questions. How can I support healthy soil? How do I know what seeds are open pollinated (OP) and which ones are hybrids (F1)? Where should I store my root veggies for the winter? When canning my beans, can I use water bath canning or do I need to pressure can them? These questions are endless, and the resulting discoveries are rewarding. And the more we ask, the more we learn how to bolster our own existence in a healthy and fulfilled manner. So, though I, in the not too distant past, might have sat complacently on that web of economic fragility and resource depletion our world has become, the nervousness I felt so strongly then is starting to dissipate. In fact, as I now look out my rental suite window and smile upon my mini-garden, and while I flip through the local real estate land listings, my dream grows with abundance like those plants I cherish so much. And there is no longer any doubt in my mind that here, in this Valley, I will find those people and share that knowledge that makes a community strong, sustainable and consciously connected.

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

leave home, I am going to take a Foot Reflexology course. My grandkids are now saying “Please do my feet, Please Nana!!” They love Foot Reflexology also.

Reflexologist, Terri Lewis

A Present for Mom’s Feet

erri Lewis’s call to Reflexology began in her teens. “My cousin Edna got her certification in Certified Foot Reflexology in April 1970, and for my 13th Birthday, she started to do my feet as I would miss school 3-4 days each month due to painful periods.” recalls Terri “I had so much pain that I cried. My cousin did my feet every week for 3 months, then every 2 weeks for 6 months. As the pain diminished, Terri began to function more ably each month. Her cousin continued to work on her feet 1-2 times a month, for 3 years and then moved away. Upon moving she gave Terri a book on Helping Yourself with Foot Reflexology and it soon became her bible. She found the routine her cousin used and began to practice reflexology on herself. “It was such a blessing to have learnt from my cousin.” Decades later, through her daughter’s Boys and Girls Club, a Reflexologist taught a class for parents to connect to their children. Terri attended with Trish and memories came flooding back on her own experiences with Foot Reflexology. How relaxing it was, especially during times of stress or headaches, pains or cramps bad circulation in the body. The weekday sessions really helped her and both her daughters bond. “Please do my feet! Please mom” Trish would beg from as early as nine years old. “I kept thinking to myself, as soon as my girls

Terri has been doing Foot Reflexology for 11 years and in those 11 years, Terri has also completed Certification in Reiki –level 3, Indian Head Massage, Thai Foot Reflexology, Therapeutic Touch, Acupressure Facial, Oneness Blessing Giver, Spiritual Healer and Counselling level 1-2 courses, to be able to listen to clients. Full relaxation allows the healing to begin with all modalities that I do. Continuously, I’m allow the healing energy of the Universe to flow through my hands, to my clients, so they can heal naturally. As a specialist, Terri can tell a lot by looking at people’s feet. With Foot Reflexology, there are 7200 nerve endings in each foot that correspond to every organ & part of our bodies. When the feet hurt it means the body is unbalanced. When the Practitioner works her routine of each foot and press on those reflexes, she works the tender areas of the reflexes back to homeostasis. It may take weeks or even years to feel better, as it could have been years that the body has been sick. The reflexologist can feel lactic acid, uric acid, lumps under the skin of the feet and the foot reflexologist thumb walks to help clear out those that cause havoc in the body. (I also trade with other Reflexologist to get my feet done at least 1-2 times a month and I Love it!! Everyone’s favourite is Foot Reflexology!!) New to my business is Sota Products, and the ones I’m using on my clients is LightWorks, Magnetic Pulser and BioTuner. These products are all part of your healthy lifestyle and part of your well-being. I will be giving 10 minute demonstrations for $10.00 at the Healing Arts Expo, May 6-7th, at Duncan Lodge 10-5 p.m.. These products are tools that must start off slow approximately 10 min, 2-3

Mother’s Day Specials 3x 1 HOUR of FEET for $120

xtra For e ial spec s! Mom

add on 3x 15 minutes of LightWork or Magnetic Pulser for $30 or $10 each Savings 1/2 price

Well-being & Well-ness package with Magnetic Pulser/LightWorks 3x 15 min, 3x 30 min. for $120 1453 Algonkin Road, Terri Lewis Properties @ Maple Bay RABC , IHM 250-701-8962 Reiki Master www.terriswellness.com

Special Event! May 14 • 8am - 3pm

ALL DAY BRUNCH FOR MOTHER’S DAY

Super-delicious! Vegetarian-Organic Mothers Day Brunch

times a week for the first week, then increase in session time each week. Come visit me at the Healing Arts Expo and have a try! Relaxation is All part of

your Wellness! Submitted by Terri Lewis, Reflexolgist and owner of Terri Wellness. 250 701 8962

Veronica Scott is a mosaic artist and freelance writer.

argot Page and Lorraine Taylor are well known artists in the Cowichan Valley. Margot does enamelling on copper and steel art while Lorraine produces silk scarves. While their creative interests are markedly different, they have enjoyed a love of art and a lasting friendship for more than two decades. The women met when Imagine That! Artisans Designs co-

operative in Duncan was just starting out twenty-three years ago. Lorraine was one of the founding members and Margot joined as a member a few years after the doors opened. Since then, they have seen the cooperative grow from a small store with a handful of artisans to one of the largest and most successful co-ops on Vancouver Island. Like many creative business ventures, the co-op started out as an exciting idea. While there was lots of enthusiasm in the group no-one had experience operating a co-op. “We hadn’t a clue what we were doing,” laughed Lorraine describing the small

group of founding members. Thanks to the support and kindness of two women who own the store, the newly formed group paid very little rent until they became firmly established. Painted Silk Scarves “It was women by Lorraine Taylor helping women,” Lorraine noted. Like so many Imagine That Creative Passions Flourish artisans, Lorraine with Friendship, Support, and and Margot are passionate Determination about life, art and friendship. Margot first became aware of enamelling on steel and copper when she taught drawing to fashion design students at Sheridan College School of Fine Arts in Oakville Ontario. She Enamelled Note block and Bud Vase with was drawn to Chickadees by Margot Page the vibrant glaze colours that result being hooked the first time the when fired on to metal surfaces. dyes moved across the silk. “I Margot is well known for her delightful drawings of west-coast was thrilled. I didn’t care about the expense, I knew that this wildlife such as birds, honey was something I wanted to do.” bees and eagles. The exhibition Dragons are Lorraine’s current includes a selection of Margot’s beautiful and practical note paper love. Her display will include several colourful, dramatic blocks with wildlife covers. dragon wall hangings. Lorraine, a nurse by training but Don’t miss this beautiful, one-ofan artist at heart, is passionate a-kind exhibition! about creativity and assisting the Lorraine and Margot will be empowerment of fellow artists. holding a joint exhibition of their Over the years, she has both owned and operated galleries and work during the month of May at Imagine That Artisan Designs, produced her own art, mostly 251 Craig St, Duncan. painting on silk. She describes

La Petite Auction House Auction Sunday MAY 14 & 28 • 1pm

Accepting goods throughout the week

Viewings

WEDNESDAY-FRIDAY 11am- 5pm SATURDAY 1-5pm SAME DAY viewings 10am-1pm To consign email dawngeddie@gmail.com

9686 Chemainus Rd, 250-701-2902 30

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

Qigong Seminars with Master Michael Tse

hinese Qigong Master Michael Tse is coming to the Cowichan Valley on his annual visit to his student, Certified Instructor Lee Masters. He will be teaching a weekend seminar – open to the public – on a form in the Dayan (Wild Goose) Qigong system. On the Friday night, Master Tse will be discussing the Healing Hand Gestures that generally appear in the Dayan forms; based on Daoist principles, these are movements for healing ourselves and helping others. On Saturday and Sunday, he will teach Plum Blossom Gong,

a form that uses beautiful hand gestures and movements to open the three Dantians (energy centres) and stimulate and balance the physical, mental and emotional systems of the body. This increases our vitality by allowing a harmonious connection with Nature. Master Tse describes the Daoism symbol as a man standing on a boat on a river, which reflects the ‘empty mind’ state of flowing with Nature. The Chinese character representing Qigong (pronounced chi-gung) is made up of symbols for steam rising from cooked rice (meaning Qi or energy) and work + strength (gong), the kind of work that requires skill. The three Dantians are the

main energy centres of the body relating to Jing (sexual/creative), Qi (breathing/channels) and Shen (spirit). The most important principle of Qigong is to relax and gently focus on the movements which brings a sense of calm so that we can deal with the stress of life. A most beneficial effect of practising Qigong is that it addresses the ‘stale qi’ in our bodies which we’ve forgotten how to let go of. Chinese Medicine recognizes the harmful effects of carrying stagnant energy. In Nature, there is an innate knowing of how to release old energy: trees shed dying leaves; birds moult to grow new feathers; animals tremble to throw off trauma so the memory is not stored in their muscles.

open the ‘windows’ of our body (acupuncture points) and smooth and stimulate the energy channels. This allows fresh Qi to enter and revitalize us. For anyone seeking a greater sense of balance in life, as well as healing from illness and stress, Qigong is a simple way to strengthen and invigorate the spirit. Many practitioners find chronic health problems become less limiting and even disappear over time. No previous experience is necessary to benefit from Qigong. Everyone is welcome on 26 and/ or 27 & 28 May at the Glenora Hall for this special opportunity to learn from Master Tse (See below). Registration: Lee Masters 250-748-4060 / rivendellrhythm@shaw.ca WildGooseQigongCentre.com

Qigong movements gently

to fully develop in the womb. The outer layer, known as the epidermis, is incredibly thin compared to a grown adult’s, about 20 - 30% thinner to be exact. A baby’s skin also contains less oil and melanin (pigment), so a baby’s skin is very delicate, making infants vulnerable in the world. This requires our vigilant attention and love to keep them protected.

Crib Mattresses: Are they all the same?

Dawn Howlett, owner -Resthouse a locally owned Natural Sleep shop. www.resthouse.ca

abies. We can’t resist stroking and nuzzling a baby’s soft skin. It’s so freshly new and free of life’s scars, flawless and full of potential. A baby’s skin takes about 9 months

Unfortunately, our world has become a host to many harsh chemicals, most of which have not been properly tested for human safety. As parents, we

have to become more aware of what products we allow into our children’s lives. We might be concerned with having the right toys and the right foods, but what is often overlooked is what our little ones are sleeping on. Babies sleep for 10 - 14 hours a day on their crib mattress. They breathe in and absorb through their skin whatever is in their mattress, so it’s important to make sure we know the facts. What you may not know about crib mattresses: Since the 1970’s, Chlorinated Tris (TDCPP) is a commonly used mattress flame retardant, which is listed as a carcinogen and has been found to change the DNA of people exposed to it. Polyurethane foams that make up the bulk of conventional mattress ingredients often include formaldehyde, paraquat, acetone and other potentially harmful chemicals. Many of these chemicals used have been proven to cause endocrine, reproductive, thyroid, developmental and neurological disorders in humans including hyperactivity, and learning disorders.

Most crib mattresses are made waterproof by using a vinyl covering. Vinyl (polyvinyl chloride or PVC) is one of the most toxic plastics in use and is a known human carcinogen. Chemical plasticizers are added to make the PVC soft and flexible. These plasticizers are not bound to the vinyl, and end up off-gassing. Plasticizer chemicals can cause health concerns including asthma, early onset of puberty, cancer, kidney and liver damage. In 1976, the Toxic Substances Control Act (TSCA) was created. Since then, only a few hundred of the 85,000 chemicals used on the market have been fully tested for human safety. The breakdown of chemical foams have been found to bond to household dust, which is then breathed in. North America is still using chemicals that have been banned in other countries. Many companies “greenwash” by claiming to be organic, when only a portion of their product contains chemical free materials. At Resthouse, we take this

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

research and topic seriously. We believe that currently the mattress market doesn’t go far enough in certifying and researching what’s in the products they are selling. We have partnered with Naturpedic and Savvy Rest to bring Green Guard certified baby bedding to the Cowichan Valley. We have healthy options in every price range, carefully curated to bring you the best that is available. We carry crib mattresses, waterproof mattress pads, and baby linens, all made without the weird science. With third party certifications, you can rest easy knowing you’ve taken the best care to protect your sensitive little ones from harmful chemicals that occur in conventional baby products.

Natural Mama and Baby Gifting

hoosing gifts that reflect your values—whether you are ‘green’, only buy ‘natural and organic’, or just want to live lightly on the earth, is important. If you talk to experienced parents, they likely have a list of stuff they were given as a gift that they really didn’t need. These things aren’t just unnecessary and hard on the planet, they come to be annoying when you trip over them on the way to the bathroom in the middle of the night. There are also a few items that experienced parents will say they loved and never want to be without. Remember, having a baby is an exciting time, and people will want to gift you. You just want to be very careful to direct your loving, well-intentioned family and friends away from the plastic

three months when you will be changing the baby all the time. The service washes the diapers for you and takes them back when you are ready for bigger or different diapers.

baby-wipe warmer towards that thing you really need. If you want to compile a registry of a variety of specific, green things, including a cloth diaper service, an organic mattress, and maybe even a home-made baby bed from Etsy, you can do this at Babylist. Another great registry is www.sokindregistry.org. This amazing registry allows you to register (while donating to a cause like supporting midwives in remote locations for example), for a group gift like the organic mattress you want, while also being able to accommodate gifts of time (having someone come Mondays to do laundry, etc.). Here are a few things that will make life so much easier and you will love having in your life. Services such as a postpartum doula, food delivery, or just someone to wash the clothes and fold the laundry (always a good thing!) Healthy Sleep Set Up. Any one of: a formaldehdye-free crib with a natural mattress (no polyurethane foam full of chemical flame retardants); or an all-wood co-sleeper or bassinet with similar mattress but smaller; or an organic wool pad to put under the baby if she sleeps in your bed. Cloth diapers. Saves thousands of dollars and it’s good for the planet too! Today’s designs make using cloth just as easy as disposable. If you prefer, have your family give you the gift of a diaper service for the first

Baby slings and carriers. A basic sling or a soft-shell carrier such as an Ergo, Beco, Chimparoo or Mei-tei style, is an extremely useful tool for new parents. Getting one made from organic materials is best, however, if you choose a regular fabric, organic teething pads are a great addition! Sleep sack/swaddle. 100% cotton or bamboo organic swaddles with or without velcro

are the best thing ever for swaddling...and swaddling is the best thing ever to get your new baby to sleep. Healthy and organic teas, salves, and sitz baths for postpartum help the new mama to recover and the baby get the most natural start in life. Visit Matraea’s birth and baby store for a great Green Mama Approved selection, and a chance to win an organic baby starter set from Resthouse and Matraea. Adapted from thegreenmama.com; by Amanda Aufochs-Gillespie Amanda Aufochs-Gillespie is a Vancouver-based environmentalist and author.

We have expanded our school!

Spaces Available For September

250-743-6279

Preschool & Child care Part time & Full Day Programs

We offer Montessori classes for children 30 months to 6 years of age, including kindergarten. Full and part time programs available. Our experienced staff, using an enriched Montessori curriculum, will provide the best preschool education for your child. www.shawniganlakemontessori.com

SPRING ECO FASHIONS HAVE ARRIVED! Hemp, Bamboo, Organic Cotton & more!

• Dresses & Skirts • Tanks & Tees • Pants & Shorts • Accessories & more!

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

9738 Willow St, Chemainus 250-246-9838 Hours Mon-Sat 930-530 • Sun 12-4 Closed Stat holidays

Family Fun in Cobble Hill Children & Apple Pie Fair!

uy a pie – win diamond jewelry! On Saturday, May 13th, from 10 am to 3 pm at the Cobble Hill Fairgrounds, Evergreen Independent School will host the 32nd annual Children & Apple Pie fair. This family festival and community celebration is the school’s primary fundraiser, with proceeds supporting the specific programming that shape Evergreen students’ education. This fabulous festival features something fun for everyone. The smallest children will enjoy face painting, a bouncy castle, and a fish pond, while older kids will be inspired at the woodworking table, prove their skills on the mini golf course, or work on their aim in the games area. Kids and adults alike look forward to the spectacular Silent Auction, featuring unique and inspired donations from local artists and businesses. This year’s raffle features 4 fantastic prizes for only a $10 investment. Stop by the concession and fill up on tasty, fresh, and healthy fare before heading to the bake table to satisfy that sweet tooth. The bake table features Evergreen’s celebrated handcrafted apple

pies. These delicious treats are enough to lure a crowd (they usually sell out before noon), but to sweeten the pot, every pie purchased comes with a chance to win a diamond! To keep the festive spirits high, the live entertainment lineup includes (to name a few): Ron Ingham, Beverly McKeen, Middle Eastern Dance Troupe, Evergreen marimba performance, Phil Newns musicians, Bill Levity, and Adage Studio. Evergreen Independent School has been a fixture in the Cobble Hill area since 1983, providing a 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. Evergreen is accepting applications for September 2017. Children & Apple Pie provides an excellent opportunity to visit with Evergreen teachers at the Information Booth, or take a guided tour of the school (just across the street from the fairgrounds). For more information please contact the school at 250-743-2433 or email evergreen@evergreenbc.net.

Evergreen Independent School

estled in the heart of Cobble Hill is Evergreen Independent School. Offering Junior Kindergarten to Grade 7, plus Evergreen Explorers for three year-olds, Evergreen Independent School offers a strong sense of community and a different way of looking at the art of education with an individualized and balanced approach for each student. Here are 5 clear ways we offer a balanced educational model: · Small Class Sizes -At Evergreen, your child is guaranteed individualized attention. Our small class size allows us to teach to children’s specific needs. This creates an inclusive, positive atmosphere where the children feel safe and free to be their authentic selves. Children are listened to with respect and encouraged to state their opinions. · Self-Confidence and Respect -Evergreen emphasizes development of each child’s individuality and self-esteem. Our graduates become people who are engaged in learning, like to explore, and aren’t afraid to ask questions. · Innovative Teachers -Our BC certified teachers are caring and passionate about how they

teach. Each teacher knows every child in the school and is involved in the process of supporting each child. · Integrated Learning -At Evergreen, we encourage children to ask “why?” Our academic focus is on problemsolving and integrating learning between subject areas. Learning at Evergreen is fun and cooperative. Evergreen features experimental, hands-on learning which, together with the many field trips, makes the children’s learning meaningful and enjoyable. · Sense of Community Evergreen’s students are at the centre of the school community. There is a feeling of family, a feeling of belonging. Our multigrade classroom philosophy ensures that children of all ages interact and cooperate with each other. Come have an opportunity to visit with Evergreen teachers at the Information Booth at Children and Apple Pie on May 13th, and take a guided tour of the school (just across the street from the fairgrounds). For more information please contact the school at 250-743-2433 or visit www.evergreen.bc.net

Summer Kids Camps 2017 Waldorf Schools Celebrate May Day World Wide

very year, in Waldorf schools around the world communities celebrate the coming of summer with an annual May Day Festival, (also known as Beltane in Celtic lands). Maypoles are erected all over Europe and in many places in North America. They are made of pine, birch, oak or fir, stripped of their branches, then wreathed and decorated in flowers, garlands, and ribbons. The Maypole is a symbol of fertility and represents simultaneously the world centre, the hub of the wheel of heaven, and the tree of life. The Maypole Dance weaves around the tree of life to harness and direct nature into order, to weave the forces that bring together abundance. Maypoles are also linked with freedom and the rights of the common people because they were raised on common land and the whole community celebrated around them. There are currently 1000 Waldorf Schools in 60 different countries, and in many places the local customs of those countries would be celebrated at this time of the year. At Sunrise Waldorf School, May Day is a celebration

where our whole school community comes together in a spirit of celebration and festivity. Families picnic on the grass while children play and enjoy the warmth of the sun. With the Maypole erected in the middle of the grassy field bearing colourful garlands and ribbons, students from Grades 1 to 8, dressed all in white will take turns skipping and dancing around the pole creating beautiful woven patterns – the dance being the centre of the May Day celebrations. This ritual is reflective of nature and marks the transition into warm and long days. The festival is also enlivened with music, stilt walking, games, the making of flower crowns, and of course the much anticipated tug of war between faculty and students. Our May Day festival is a favourite amongst parents, students, and teachers alike. It is another way that we strengthen our connection to the rhythms of nature and celebrate the passage of seasons through art, music and story. In salutation to the steady and fragile rhythms of Mother Earth, we wish you a festive, colourful, lively May Day, and a fertile new year of the Earth. www.sunrisewaldorfschool.org Submitted by Chantey Dayal, Director of Admissions Sunrise Waldorf School

Day Programs & Overnight Camps Contact us for dates & Register Today! coastalbliss.ca

1 800 896 9525 coastalbliss@shaw.ca

LESSONS • TOURS • RENTALS

MILL BAY MARINA & PORT SIDNEY

THE PADDLING SEASON HAS STARTED! LEARN TO KAYAK OR PADDLEBOARD AT MILL BAY OR PORT SIDNEY •Book now for Gulf Island & West Coast Kayak Expeditions (NEW All Women Tours 2017) •Check out our Online Store for Stolquist Drysuits, PFDs •Wildlife and sunset kayak tours now available BOOK TODAY! BLUEDOGKAYAKING.COM

250 710 7693

Community Choir For over 10 years, Cari Burdett has lead the Lila Music Centre Community Choir. This May/June season we are singing for Nature and Hospice - as we join every Wednesday night or/ and Friday mornings to sing in harmony by donation. We are an all ages, all welcome policy, non audition, sing for joy, community choir. We are members of the Ubuntu Choirs Network and believe that singing is everyone’s birthright. Gospel, Folk, Pop,World, Old and New music - This term we are sharing our voices at the “Hike For Hospice, May 7th” and “Sing for Nature” June 10th in an “unConcert” with local singer songwriters joining us in celebration of Nature and raising funds for the Cowichan Estuary Nature Centre, a project of the Cowichan Land Trust. Seeking more - MEN and FAMILY VOICES — yes.. we would love to have more men and families with children join their voices the Choir! Happy to have you come and try a session out -

all are welcome to sing. Please call Cari Burdett for more info 250 710 4174 Come hear us sing at Hike For Hospice, May 7, Providence Farm or join us on Wednesday nights 6:30 7:45pm pr Friday mornings 9:30am - 10:45am, Lila Music Centre. Sliding scale, Everyone Welcome. www.joythroughmusic.com,

Cottage Paint Workshops At a Cottage Paint Workshop you will learn 6 different and unique techniques to refurbish and ‘embellish’ your furniture...all in a fun and relaxed environment! Everything needed for the one day session is provided by Embellish! including a project to take home and show off your new skill to friends and family. Join the team at Embellish! Home Decor and learn from the professionals! May 6 and May 13, 10am -3pm $125 includes all supplies. Embellish Home Decor, 115 Kenneth St, Duncan. Call 250 746 9809 to register. Space is limited.

Dance A Thon

o you like to learn new dances & music from around the world? Do you like to celebrate the incredible diversity we have in the Warmland? Would you like to dance & celebrate multiculturalism with hundreds of your neighbours during an all-day event with the goal of raising funds for a new Immigrant Welcome Centre in the Valley? Then join the Cowichan Intercultural Society at our upcoming Dance-a-thon Fundraiser! On Saturday, May 13th, from 10am-6pm at the Charles Hoey Park in downtown Duncan (Train Station Park), the Cowichan Intercultural Society will host an interactive eight-hour day of lively multicultural music and dancing. A variety of musicians, musical groups, dance schools, and performers will take the stage throughout the day, leading participants in dance and celebration. All proceeds of the fundraiser will benefit our Capital Campaign to build a new Immigrant Welcome Centre in the Cowichan Valley. As the leading settlement & immigration organization in the region, we are celebrating our 35th anniversary this year, and we are poised for continued growth as we plan on

building a new home. The registration fee for this allday event is only $5. Registered participants will be challenged to raise pledges which will go directly towards our Capital Campaign, and participants are asked to raise a minimum of $35 (in commemoration of our 35th anniversary). There will be an array of incredible prizes to be awarded to participants who reach certain pre-set fundraising levels, and there will also be many prizes awarded on the day of the event (longest dancer, youngest dancer, oldest dancer, etc.). The Cowichan Intercultural Society has developed a simple web-based platform which participants can use to organize their fundraising efforts. Once registered, participants can create a personal fundraising page on our Canada Helps online platform, and through that page, participants will be able to accept online donations and spread the word about the event (and their participation) throughout their online community. Check out the link on our homepage (www. cis-iwc.org) for more event details and to sign up today!

“Spring a new Season, how will I receive it, what will I accomplish with this season of growth” Namaste www.VIRetreats.com

Can’t make the event? Don’t worry, we will be streaming the event live on our Facebook feed (Cowichan InterculturalSociety). You can also show your support for our Capital Campaign by signing up as a “virtual participant” and helping us

collect pledges, even if you can’t make the event itself. Find the link on our homepage for more information or email festival@ cis-iwc.org.

Meditation Wednesday 7 PM Thursday 9 AM 250. 710. 7594

Nichiren Buddha Center

Vancouver Island Retreat Garden, Peace Center

Phone 778 422 0155

ART e HE illage h t V in Bay ated Loc wichan o of C

Low Tide Day

•ALL DAY BREAKFAST

OPEN

weekdays 7:30am - 5pm weekends 8am - 5pm Closed TUESDAYS

•Local ELK Hotdogs •Hot Drinks •Nasi Goreng •Jamaican Patties

Delicious food made fresh right HERE!

Marine Biology Camps Come explore! Learn about the plants and animals of the estuarine habitat through fun hands-on activities, including beach seines, mud digs, bird surveys, swimming, games, and crafts! AGES 5 - 7: July 17 - 21 July 31 - Aug4 Aug 21 - 25

AGES 8-11: July 10 - 14 July 24 - 28 Aug 14 - 18

LEADERSHIP 12-18 YRS: July 4-7 Includes ﬁrst aid certiﬁcate

All camps run 9am—3:30pm $215 per child

Marine Biology Leadership Camp for youth aged 12-18 who are interested in leadership in the marine biology and/or child and youth care ﬁeld. Participants will learn about the plants and animals of the estuary and how to engage younger children in activities and games. They will also receive First Aid Training and can earn our Estuary Leader Certiﬁcate.

ow Tide Day in Cowichan Bay is on Saturday, May 27 this year. This local science, service, and fun festival is in its 19th year. On the Saturday in May with the lowest tide, volunteers clean the beaches of Cowichan Bay while families learn about the creatures in the water and the mud. After the cleanup and citizen science, everyone gathers for entertainment by an amazing local musician, Dennis Atkins, and food provided by the Cowichan Bay community. Everyone is welcome at this free event which combines science education, food, music, and environmental stewardship. Low Tide day is an opportunity to have fun while learning about, celebrating, and caring for the shore and the intertidal world. The day begins at 10:30 at Kil-pah-las Beach just east of Cowichan Bay Village. Volunteer biologists use a seine net to collect creatures from the near offshore environment and then lead Dr. Bill Austin’s “critter

count”, a quadrat survey of the animals in the mud. At 12:30 cleanup teams and scientists gather for lunch and music. International Low Tide Day began in 1995 with an “Eco Fayre” in Brighton, England In 1999 Cowichan Bay became the first Canadian community to join and the event has been held every May since then, sponsored by the Cowichan Land Trust, the Cowichan Valley Naturalists, the Cowichan Bay Improvement Association, Cowichan Tribes, and the Cowichan Valley Regional District, with support from many other local groups and businesses. The motto of the event is “One tide, on one day, around the world, because we all live downstream.” For more information, visit www.cowichanestuary.ca, email lowtide@cowichanestuary.ca, or call John at 250-746-6141 or Jeff at 250-252-1400.

Submitted by John Scull

BEADS BEADS BEADS

9752c Willow St

Chemainus

To register visit:

http://www.cowichanestuary.ca/programs/camps/ 1845 Cowichan Bay Rd, 250-746-0227 For more info email camps@cowichanestuary.ca

Etc!

250 324 2227 Open 7 days a week

Best prices on the island • HUGE Selection • Workshops & Classes Beading I Kumihimo I Bead Weaving I Viking Knit I Herringbone and more!

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

Southern Residents traveling in Boundary Pass Image Simon Pidcock

Biggs Killer Whales Are Here To Stay

his spring has been the best ever for Biggs Killer Whale sightings. There have been sightings almost every day this month! The mammal eating killer whales are taking advantage of the numerous sea lions that have arrived for the spring herring spawn. When I started watching whales in the Salish Sea 15 years ago we would encounter Biggs Killer Whales just a few times a month. Now we view Biggs Killer Whales almost as frequently as the fish eating Southern Resident Killer Whales. Watching multiple families of Biggs Killer Whales socializing, hunting and feasting has made for a very special spring. It has been interesting to watch the matriarchs from different pods travel together while their kids all socialize and hunt together. Killer Whales are one of a few species that are matriarchal. Matriarchy is a form of social

organization in which the mother or oldest female heads the family. Both Biggs Killer Whales and the Southern Resident Killer Whales are matriarchal although not all matriarchal societies are the same. Southern Resident families live in a complex matriarchal society, in which sons and daughters are with their mother throughout their lives, even after they have offspring of their own. These bonds remain strong between siblings even after the mother has died. Biggs Killer Whales also live in complex matriarchal society but we will often see the matriarchs eldest offspring disperse and travel separately. It’s thought that the Biggs disperse like this to keep the family size small so they don’t lose their element of surprise while hunting. Even though a matriline often splits and elder females start their own families they will still socialize and frequently travel

with the rest of their original family. There are some areas in the world where we find humans living in matriarchal societies. There are also quite a few other animals that live in matriarchal societies including Lions, Elephants, Honey Bees, Spotted

Hyenas, Meercats and Bonobos. Without these mother role models these species wouldn’t thrive and be here today. Happy Mothers Day! Simon Pidcock is Head Captain and owner of Ocean Ecoventures.

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Hive Share: Bees In The Garden

enora Bee Apiary is excited to announce that they will be working with Cowichan Valley Voice Magaazine as a member of our Educational Hive Share throughout the beekeeping season. We are looking forward to sharing the value of experiencing a hive share and the benefits for the beginner beekeeper.

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What exactly is a Hive Share? Lenora Bee has two types of Hive Share Programs, Basic and Educational. The Basic Hive Share is from May-September. It involves one of our hives being moved to the member’s property and managed by an experienced beekeeper. The member will receive monthly ‘hive boxes’ of various hive products, pollination of fruit bearing plants, and the enjoyment of experiencing the bee highway! The Educational Hive Share is from April-October. It also involves one of our hives being moved to the member’s property and managed by an experienced beekeeper, as well as monthly ‘hive boxes’. The member will be involved with the management of the hive, and during their two tutorial

sessions per month they will be learning everything from the Biology of the honeybee, to Integrated Pest Management. With the tutorial sessions, there are monthly hand outs for the member’s records to use as a reference guide when they have their own colony. Beekeeping in the Cowichan Valley is rewarding and equally challenging. Our humid winters, and fluctuating springs are difficult for the honeybees, as well as dearth periods of nectar throughout the year. With the ongoing barrage of pests and diseases that honeybees are up against, it is necessary to be prepared and educated as a new beekeeper. Our 2017 Hive Share Program is currently sold out. Since we’ve sold out for this year, our partnership with the Valley Voice will be our way of sharing the Hive Share experience. About the Beekeeper: Chelsea Lenora Abbott grew up in the Cowichan Valley. She was introduced to commercial beekeeping in the high prairies where she worked under the guidance of a long time beekeeper. During her time in Northern Alberta she studied commercial beekeeping at GPRC earning her certificate as a commercial beekeeper. Her return to the Cowichan Valley was to create a locally based apiary, bringing together her knowledge of commercial beekeeping, organic practices and community supported agriculture. Lenora Bee Apiary blossomed in 2017 and is set on providing long term, sustainable beekeeping, beekeepers and hive products.

DO YOU SUFFER FROM SEASONAL ALLERGIES? Celebrate Canada’s 150th Anniversary In Song This spring to celebrate Canada’s 150th Anniversary, Medford Singers and Victoria Mendelssohn Choir are joining together to create a musical tribute to our country, titled “O Canada, A Musical Journey”. This rousing concert will feature composers and music spanning the history of Canada with works from a variety of genres and traditions that are uniquely Canadian. Some composers include Stan Rogers, Ian Tyson , James Rankin and Leonard Cohen. Favourites include Fare thee Well Love and Hallelujah , Song for the Mira and The Log Driver’s Waltz --something for everyone! A few Mendelssohn favourites are also sprinkled in for variety. Each choir will perform their Canadian repertoire followed by a huge massed choir presentation of choruses from Mendelssohn’s ‘Elijah’. Two performances are being offered in the Cowichan Valley. In Lake Cowichan, the concert takes place at the Christian Fellowship Church, 10 King George St on Saturday May 27th at 3pm. In Duncan, the concert is at Duncan United Church on Sunday May 28 at 2pm.Tickets are available in advance ($17) at Volume One Books in Duncan, Remax in Lake Cowichan, and from choir members. Tickets at the door are $20; children 12 and under free.

“ Nature give us everything we need to protect and maintain our health”

Paint-A-Chair All over the South End you’ll soon see imaginative painted chairs in businesses. There to be admired and bid on, the chairs will be the work of artists and wannabe artists from all over the Cowichan Valley. Cobble Hill, Mill Bay and Shawnigan Lake businesses will be displaying the chairs prior to being taken to the Cobble Hill Fair to be shown. The next stop for the travelling chairs will be Music in the Park evening in Cobble Hill. Throughout their travels silent auction bids will be takenon the chairs, with proceeds from the sale of the chairs shared equally by the artists and Cowichan South Arts Guild Society, sponsors of the PaintA-Chair event. Membership in the Arts Guild is $10 (next year it will be $25), and the cost of the chair is $5. This is an event to get your artistic juices flowing and to show everyone how talented you are. To reserve a chair email artsguild@shaw.ca

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Hanging Baskets & Containers

We have everything from pots to soil to plants to build your own or we have finished containers grown in our greenhouse. May 12 • 3pm to 5pm

KIDS ONLY!

Make a Hanging Basket For Mom

$5.00 donation to ‘Food for Thought’ program on the Cowichan Family Life ‘Books & Bubbles’ bus.

www.dinternursery.ca

Serving local gardeners since 1973

250 748 2023

5km South of Duncan on Hwy 1

Creating Successful Hanging Baskets

very gardener wants to add a splash of colour to their deck and property during the summer, and hanging baskets are a fun and easy way to accomplish this goal. When creating a hanging basket, the first step is to choose your container. Typical plastic baskets come in 8” to 12” sizes. Even though plastic is the best bet for holding moisture, remember that the smaller the basket, the more watering that will be required. This is also true of coco fibre liners and sphagnum moss used for wire baskets. However, these mediums do allow for the ability to side plant the baskets which makes for a longer, fuller look. Next, fill your basket with a lightweight potting mix. Your local garden centre will carry a selection of container mixes for you to choose from. Even if these mixes contain some

fertilizer, you will still need to feed them with a liquid fertilizer about once a week. If you are using a wire basket lined with sphagnum moss, insert a lightweight plastic drip tray into the bottom of your basket. This will contain the soil and allow for proper drainage. Now you can plant your basket. Baskets that are located in more than six hours of light need sun tolerant plants, and those with less should contain shade tolerant. Place an upright plant near the centre; it’s usually a good idea to choose something like a geranium, begonia, or fuchsia. The surrounding plants should balance each other in habit: trailing across from trailing, and mounding across from mounding. Suggestions include bacopa, calibrachoa, or verbena for trailing, and impatiens, pansies, or lobelia for mounding. Shop the basket stuffer section of your local nursery for some great

ideas. Make sure to read the tag to ascertain habit. Get creative by using contrasting colours for big impact, or playing with textures in both foliage, and size and profusion of flowers. You can also create big impact by planting your basket with one variety and colour. For sun, try using mini-cascade geraniums or petunias, and for shade try using ipomia, fuchsia, or impatiens. Once you have planted your selection, trim the plants back removing the flowers to encourage growth and branching. Now all that is left is to water your basket thoroughly and then hang it and watch it grow!

Tamu Miles, Novelist, blogger, and employee at Dinter Nursery

DESIGNI NG green

ENVIRONMENTALLY BETTER THAN BURNING!

old they have attained their LARGE FEATURES years full maturity.

David Coulson has a staff of 25 that have built throughout the island for over 20 years.

K, they say it’s spring so supersize me! Boy it was a long time coming and I hope as this goes to press that spring has indeed arrived! SO, you think you might want a bamboo accent in the garden this year? Well I think it’s a great idea but let’s discuss what you are going to have in seven years or so (and yes, this is just another one of those lunar inspired cycles of life). Would it be size, colour, bushiness or leaf size that you are after? My clients are often asking for an evergreen screen and when they hear the word bamboo, they associate it with fast growing and therefore quick privacy. My ‘girls’ as I refer to them (when I’m happy with them) are just reaching their full development and at about nine

They are light green to deep green, yellow with green stripes, green with yellow stripes and black or nearly purple and black. The leaves range from a delicate ½” long to a 12” blade almost three inches wide. Once fully mature after that seven year cycle, the culms or stalks have reached their maximum growth for this temperate region and will likely grow no taller or thicker in girth. My larger species, the Japanese Timber or Phyllostacus Bambusoides are 3 full inches thick and reaching 12 to 14 meters in height or 42 to 45 feet. They have tremendous tensile strength and the compression strength of wood timber several times their size. One of my culms was uprooted in this past winter’s heavy wet snow. That resulted from over 200 pounds of wet snow pulling this beauty to the ground without breaking it, but compromising it at the root ball. Bamboo are shallow rooted, growing from rhizomes and travel in the top 6” to 12 “ of topsoil. I simply don’t have the strength and means to straighten these massive culms back up and with a good crop developed, I now readily saw them up with my specialized Japanese bamboo saw, a razor sharp pull saw for making very clean almost laser like cuts. My second saw BTW that I acquired at the Portland Japanese garden. Felling these timber like culms is no small feat. As hollow and light as they are, I am unable to stand up a harvested and pruned culm because of its sheer size and length. Laying down it is the full extent of my yard. Vertically, it towers 10 feet above my nearly three story home on a hill.

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Carefully splitting with my swedge like froe we can create enough bamboo slats 3/4” wide , soaked in water overnight, to weave a lovely garden gate (more on that in next garden tour issue in June. Gang them up and they make great fencing, arbors for climbing plants, utility poles throughout the yard, a handy pole to retrieve toys or limbs of adjacent roofs, strap a paint brush to the end and dust (or paint) those hard to reach spots, and the list goes on. This is big serious grass. No, Canadian Tire does not have

a weed-wacker to deal with this stuff. Be prepared to use a fireman’s axe to keep running rhizomes in check. You’ve heard the good neighbour policy with bamboo. Best to keep it contained in concrete or steel containers that reach two feet down and pitched at 7 degrees outward. If you place it in a nice aspect, say sloping south exposure, expect it to mature quicker and possibly reach larger size. But read up on its merits and bring all things bamboo or grasslike into your home. The projects are endless. If you are so lucky to get your hands on a copy of the Book of Bamboo by David Farrelly, take a week and it will expand your mind in ways no other grass can come near. 1500 species with over 2500 uses from beer to airplanes. Beer to airplanes! How cool is that? Next time you are downtown at the market, see the bamboo pole leaning next to the Green Door house. We use it to get the leaves off the roof over two stories up. So much more Zen then a ladder and the power of one! Images David Coulson

and I knew then that we had to get some for us! The bells we wanted are made in the US, and the price of a set was then around $7000 US. The next 5 years saw us working hard to raise the money needed, and in 2007 we purchased our first set! Since then, with further fundraising we have been able to add more bells and thus increase our repertoire and the number of players.

hen I first joined Glenora Farm 20 years ago as a newly trained singer and choral conductor from Europe, with my husband and very small children, the first of now 3 large houses was being built, and the land had just begun to produce some vegetables. We gathered every week to sing – music has always played an important role in the life of our community - but in the beginning we didn’t have any instruments. I first experienced the beauty of the sound of hand bells at our sister community, the Cascadia Society in North Vancouver. I saw the possibilities for people with disabilities to produce music of high quality in a group setting,

In the music room at Glenora Farm a large group meets once a week for an hour to make music together with these bells and some simple stringed instruments called kantales. Everyone lines up with one or two bells each, facing the director of the choir. They must pay close attention in order to play precisely when given the cue. The emphasis is on PRECISELY! Music happens in beat and rhythm, and if someone misses their cue and makes a delayed entry, it will throw everyone else off. The magic will be broken, the music must stop and the group needs to start from the beginning of the piece again. You can imagine the concentration demanded of each player; listening and hand-eye

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The Musical Mission Of The Glenora Farm Bell Choir coordination are just a couple of skills that are being strengthened in the process. Additionally, the participants are called to develop a strong team spirit, supporting each other compassionately and patiently. The result is always one they can all be proud of helping to create. This group of bell ringers is now known and loved throughout the Cowichan Valley as the Glenora Farm Bell Choir, and apart from hosting our own annual concerts in town, we have had regular appearances with local orchestras and choirs such as the Duncan Choral Society and the Cowichan Camerata. We have participated twice in the Cowichan Valley Music Festival and also played with the Valley’s Celtic Rhythm Dancers. Joyfully, we have been able to offer our music to help other non profit groups in their fundraising events, such as Special Olympics Cowichan and Mbira Sprit.

To perform music on stage in front of a small or large audience is no small feat. The adrenaline rushing through the veins when under pressure to perform well can be compared to that of on Olympic athlete. Yet here are people who in spite of their disabilities in daily life seem to be able to gather the courage to do this, enhancing the quality of their local community. This aligns with the mission of Glenora Farm to help build skills and confidence in order to gain a sense of accomplishment and make a positive contribution to one’s community. The next opportunity to hear the Bell Choir in performance will be at a concert with the Duncan Choral Society on Monday, May 15, 7:30 pm at the Duncan, United Church, 246 Ingram Street. Submitted by Annette Lampson, Music Director, Glenora Farm

Dynamic Pathways

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

Flower & Garden Show

ill Bay Garden Club is hosting the 70th Community Flower & Garden Show on Saturday May 27 from 9am until 2pm at the Cobble Hill Community Hall located at 3550 Watson Avenue, Cobble Hill. While the ever expanding and active Mill Bay Garden Club has many events, features, guest speakers and programs throughout the year, the annual Flower Show has been the peak point of skills learned and practiced. The “Strawberry Tea”, prepared and served by the South Cowichan Healthcare Auxiliary, is a favourite. The most popular aspect, besides the competition itself, which features over 80 competition classes open to the public, are the gardening workshops offered. This year, Margaret Walker is giving a workshop on Hardy Ferns at 9:30am and the Victoria Compost Education Centre is conducting a

“Composting Basics” workshop beginning at 10:30am. Don’t miss the Silent Auction in the hall which showcases many garden related as well as handmade items, bids accepted until 1:00pm. Also be sure to visit the Master Gardeners, who will answer any gardening questions, or problems you may have as well as the plant and garden vendors located on the grounds of Cobble Hill Hall. If you wish to enter the competition, be sure to pick up a program with a list of competition classes and rules at Buckerfield’s, Thrifty Foods, Country Grocer, Valley Vines to Wines, and Dinter Nursery or download from our website, www. millbaygardenclub.com or email millbaygardenshow@ gmail.com. You may also call Janet Abbott at 250-743-9875 for more information.

Small Town. Big Awards.

he Downtown Duncan Business Improvement Area’s (DDBIA) prestigious President’s Awards were handed out at their Annual General Meeting held last month. Selected by President Judy Stafford, the awards celebrate the business people who have made an important contribution to Downtown Duncan through their leadership, commitment, and

passion. Business of the Year Award went to Global Vocational Services, whose busy Employment Service Centre is located on the second floor of 80 Station Street. In business for over 30 years, each month Global Vocational assists an average of 50 people in the Cowichan Region find and

start employment. Their hard-working staff of 26 serve approximately 800 clients on a monthly basis – all in a positive, friendly, and respectful atmosphere. From major road and sidewalk construction to the development of the Dakova building, Canada Avenue has been undergoing a transformation

Terry Colebrook, Global Vocational Services wins Business of the Year Award presented by Judy Stafford.

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

the last few years and adding to the positive change was the opening of Café La Vie in May 2016. Judy mentioned the amazing vegan menu and the hard work of the Phan family (Vanessa, Grace and Thia) as the reasons for their success, as she presented Café La Vie with the New Business of the Year Award. From the cheery and Ingrid Ball being awarded the Spirit of colourful sidewalk Excellence Award presented by Judy Stafford. bistro tables to the warm and cozy on the Board of Directors. interior, this gem of a café Ingrid’s knowledge, integrity, serves a delicious variety of diplomacy, and valued drinks, food, and treats all perspective have contributed made from scratch in-house. greatly to the successful This year’s recipient of the Spirit of Excellence Award was Ingrid Ball. Many people know of Ingrid from her wonderful yarn shop that was a downtown fixture for over 16 years, but what many may not know is what an integral part of the downtown business community she has been behind the scenes. Since 2002, Ingrid played a very active role in the DDBIA – volunteering year after year for various positions

downtown core you see today.

The Shirley McGuinness Award recognizes an outstanding commitment to the beautification of Downtown Duncan and an exceptional effort to improve the appearance and overall experience of the downtown community. This year’s winner, Angela Andersen, is the head of the Fine Arts Department at Queen Margaret’s School, a visual arts teacher, and an accomplished artist herself. Over the years she has been the driving force behind several downtown art projects including a community mural, a children’s Artwall on the Station Building entitled “Elder Portraits, Cultural Diversity & Community” and a vibrant 64’ long mural along Government Street called “What the Salmon Say”. Fred McGuinness awards Angela Andersen with the Shirley McGuinness Award. Downtown Duncan is a more colourful,

Spring Painting Workshops May 6 & May 13 10am - 3pm $125.00 Learn everything you need to know to give your furniture new life! Call Embellish! to register250 746 9809

connected, and cohesive community because of Angela’s vision, talent, energy, and commitment to build bridges and beauty through art.

Shelley Lockwood, The Purple Door

The Purple Door

hat is it they say about one man’s trash? That about sums it up for us here at the Purple Door on Jubilee Street, where we take previously discarded items and turn them into one of a kind, unique pieces. Everything we sell has been made in the Cowichan Valley, in fact, most of the products currently for sale were made onsite. We sell locally sewn household items like placemats, aprons, coffee cup sleeves, door draft stoppers, make-up bags, and hot & cold packs. There is something new to find in our store every day including a made-inCowichan baby line with specially lined burp cloths, colourful baby blankets, and bedding. Our philosophy is CLASP: Community, Land, Animals, Support, and Protect. Throughout our daily lives we are aware of and care about the people, animals, and land of our community. We carry this belief set into our business, which is why we purchase items to repurpose and upcycle from

Downtown Duncan & Cowichan businesses and thrift stores that support local charities. Last summer we spent a lot of time with people who are struggling with chronic illness, mental health issues, hunger, and homelessness. There are voids in our community and with the Purple Door we aim to fill at least some of them. People from all walks of life need a safe place to go, including youth! The Purple Door is a place where anyone can come and make something. Now comes the really fun part…the Purple Door Craft Parties! We will be pulling ideas from social media and having a whole heck of a lot of fun trying them out. We can’t necessarily promise you success, but we will promise you a ton of fun. The price to party at the Purple Door is by suggested donation of $25 to $35. We are confident that those who can afford to will donate more, so that others can participate for free. If you are interested in offering classes or need a gathering space for your group, we can accommodate up to 15 people for a flat hourly rate. The Purple Door, 161 Jubilee Street, 250.597.8161 fun@the purpledoor.ca

and the modern buildings really add something to the look of the town.

Ernest and Lisette, Rembrandt’s Chocolates

Q&A with Ernest Horvers of Rembrandt’s Chocolates

DDBIA:: What has been your favourite part of owning Rembrandt’s and making chocolate? EH: My wife Lisette will miss the interaction with the customers and for me, being the only chocolatier in town, I loved all the different chocolates and questions customers would ask me.

JOIN US FOR

LUNCH + DINNER

OPEN Tuesday to Saturday

look for our daily specials on 40 Ingram Street

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Downtown Duncan

(250) 597-3473

DDBIA: What did you like best about having your business downtown? EH: Business in downtown was good to us. Customers enjoy the feel of a smalltown shopping experience and Downtown Duncan is the perfect town with its different selection of small independently owned stores.

*Ernest and Lisette have sold their business and have retired! DDBIA: How long have you been in business in Downtown Duncan and what businesses have you owned? EH: Lisette and myself have had the pleasure of being downtown with “Lisette’s Restaurant and then “Rembrandt’s Chocolates” for over 30 years. DDBIA: Why did you leave the restaurant business and what drew you to the chocolate business? EH:For the first 6 years that Lisette’s Restaurant was in business, we were open 7 days a week. Having 2 small children and working 24/7 was too much, so we changed the hours and made Sunday our family day. After 10 years, we had the opportunity to sell the restaurant and started Rembrandt’s. DDBIA:What are the most significant downtown changes you have seen in the last 30 years? EH:I have to say that at the moment, Downtown Duncan is busier and more vibrant than it has ever been. Developers see that as well

DDBIA:: Any advice for new downtown business owners? EH: Individual work habits are very important in running a good business since you have to do the bulk of the work yourself. Also, I think it’s important that you have some experience in the job that you take on. DDBIA: Any plans for retirement? EH: Customers who are used to our Dutch-Indonesian snacks and food have asked me if I will continue with that…so I think maybe I’m not 100% retired yet ☺

Find us at 306 Duncan St. nestled bet ween the Duncan Garage and Rayʻs Antiques, One of a kind, Clothing, Accessories and gifts for the whole family. Each piece is handcrafted with love by artists from around the corner and across BC. For more info or to register call 778-455-4888

Sands Funeral Chapel

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any individuals want to pass along assets to their spouse, children or other family members when they pass away. They’ve worked hard to accumulate assets throughout their life and want the heirs to continue enjoying those assets. However, this may not happen exactly as they expect, due to the deemed disposition rules of the Income tax act. According to these rules, if the taxpayer does not have a spouse or spousal trust to roll over the assets, the taxpayer is deemed to have disposed of all of his/ her assets immediately before death, at fair market value. If the assets have appreciated in value since the taxpayer acquired them, the taxpayer realizes a capital gain and may have to pay income tax on the taxable portion (50 per cent) of the capital gains. Therefore, the heirs of the estate will not receive 100 per cent of the assets left by the deceased, instead a portion is lost to income tax. For example, Mr. X, a widower, dies owning common shares of a private company. The fair market value of these shares is $100,000 and the adjusted cost base $100. Due to deemed disposition rules, he will be deemed to have realized a capital gain of $99,900; 50 per cent of which must be reported as taxable income in his final tax return. Assuming he is in highest marginal tax bracket (45 per cent, for example), the tax liability on this capital gain is approximately $22,500. this means the

estate of Mr. X has to either sell the shares or arrange to pay the tax liability from other sources. While taxes at death may be unavoidable, an “estate freeze” may help limit the tax liability due to deemed disposition rules, and pass along more value to the heirs. It may also help estimate the tax liability on death, and make planning for funding the final taxes easier. Proceeds of a life insurance policy may provide money, instead of requiring the estate to liquidate assets. What is an estate freeze? In simple terms, an estate freeze means transferring the value of the future growth of assets to heirs and locking in the current value and associated income tax the transferor will be liable for on death or disposition of the assets. For owners of a private corporation, often a significant portion of their net worth is represented by the shares of the corporation. An estate freeze may help owners of a Canadian private corporation to transfer the future growth of the corporation to heirs and limit the tax liability on the owner’s death. How to implement an estate freeze? There are different ways to implement an estate freeze.

Dave Shortill is a Senior Financial Advisor and Best Selling Author on Amazon. He is enjoying life with life partner Heather in beautiful Cowichan Bay . For your free financial planning software visit www. riskdoctor.ca

Maple Bay Wooden Boat Festival

aple Bay Marina will host the 22nd Annual Wooden Boat Festival over the May holiday weekend. Wooden boats have a long standing history on the west coast and Vancouver Island. The people that dedicate their time and hard work to keep them in shape, or restore them, tie us to our maritime heritage. The event pays homage to this tradition, and celebrates the owners who share a passion for wooden boats. Popularized by enthusiasts who honour this industry, the event is not limited to glimpses of the past but also features modern wooden vessels. Display vessels will include converted work boats, sailboats, rowboats, kayaks, classic Monks and Chris Crafts. The public is encouraged to join the festivities and vote for their favourite boat; admission

is FREE on Saturday May 20th and Sunday May 21st. Visitors will enjoy added attractions which include a pool with model boat display and demonstrations, live music, and local arts & crafts for sale. This is a perfect opportunity to meet local artists and witness their art taking shape and take time to browse the wide variety of products made available by other vendors.

22nd ANNUAL MAPLE BAY MARINA

WOODEN BOAT FESTIVAL

May 20 & 21

• Live Music • Vote for your favourite Wooden Boats! • Remote Control Boat Pool • Artists, Vendor Booths and more!

“I really enjoy Festival Open To Public learning each boat’s Saturday & Sunday! history and meeting the owners; such 10am -5pm fascinating stories,” 6145 Genoa Bay Road, Maple Bay www.maplebaymarina.com says Carol Messier, the event coordinator. “I’m also excited to see marina features open and covered moorage, the remote control modellers back and all the recreational boating services, float home artists who will be in attendance at this year’s vacation rentals, kayak rentals, yacht sales, festival.” and is home to The Shipyard Restaurant & Pub, Mariners Market and Espresso Bar and Maple Bay Marina is one of the largest the annual Maple Bay Marina Wooden Boat destination marine centers in British Columbia. Festival. May 20, 21 6145 Genoa Bay Road Located at the most southern end of Maple Maple Bay Duncan maplebaymarina.com Bay it is just 10 minutes east of Duncan. The

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Okido Yoga with Tin Yan

kido Yoga is a holistic form of yoga developed by the Japanese Master Masahiro Oki. He incorporated many philosophies and disciplines including oriental medicine, martial arts and Indian yoga into a practice that supports us to connect with oneself, each other and nature. It is a unique form of yoga that at times involves partner work/ exercises that supports us not only in our own movement, but also in working collaboratively and harmonising with each other. Through this practice we can cultivate more peace in our lives and the world. I am excited about introducing this form of yoga to the Cowichan Valley, one that is fun, light-hearted and dynamic all at once. Okido Yoga has been a part of my life for 16 years and I was lucky enough to have trained under Yuko Inadera for 8 years in Melbourne, Australia. It has enriched my life immensely, deepening my connection with others and understanding of myself, as well as developing more inner peace and centredness in daily life. Through sharing

Zak Stolk Violin Maker

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Okido Yoga, I hope it will support others to connect and discover more richness and joy in their lives. With each season there are different exercises and practices. For Springtime there is a focus on purification of mind-heart and body. Overall each class is unique - beginning with a warm up, generally followed by a combination of asana (poses), breathing, balance, corrective, laughing, strengthening exercises, ending with a warm down and relaxation. Classes are held at the gorgeous new Sol Centre space in the beautifully colourful Sun Room. Come and join us, no experience required. Thursdays 5:30-7pm @ The Sol Centre, #3-5380 Trans-Canada Hwy, $15/class or $55/4 class card. Please contact Tin Yan at yogaokido@gmail.com for more information.

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Green Living

etween family, work and play in today’s busy times it is often difficult to strike a balance, so why not combine all three! This time of year especially many of us struggle between keeping up our regular maintenance routines inside the house while the gardening and yard work call us outside.

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exchange with is a deepened sense of connection among my friends. Each of us feel a sense of pride in space that we have participated in creating for one another and I also appreciate the important community building skills we’re modeling for the kids while we work.

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Consider the value of organizing a work exchange with a group of friends, Contours Aesthetics 3515 Cobble Hill Rd • 250-715-7935 really drawing on the old www.contoursaesthetics.com adage that “many hands ,HYDRATE, MOISTURIZE & PROTECT makeREPAIR light work”. The was&acamomile time wheningredients. group yourprovides skin withwilling our freshly infusedThere lavender everyone worked together out labor, shares access to tools, of necessity. Family, friends and takes turns supervising and neighbours helping and children all while tackling supporting each other to grow that long list of projects too ESCAPE food, construct buildings, and overwhelming to get done E S THETICS raise children, a broad sense on your own. It is a very Est. Since 2006 of community that made light rewarding and productive work out of life’s challenges. day. Set aside a day of the week or one day each month, I can’t say enough about the benefits I feel come from my whatever works for your work exchanges. I encourage particular needs, and rotate between each of your homes. you to ease your workload, Even though you’ll be giving strengthen relationships and leave everyone with more up time working at your friend’s homes, I think you’ll time to play in the sun this summer. find that you get so much accomplished when it’s your Tracey Hanson turn to host the group that local mompreneur the trade is well worth it. and owner/operator Added to that an unexpected Clean Choice Eco#4 -5777 Trans Canada Hwy, Duncan BC Friendly Cleaning benefit that I have Services 250.748.2056 www.soulescape.ca experienced with the group I cleanchoicecleaners.

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Bike To Work Week

his year during the week of May 29th – June 2nd please come out and join Cycle Cowichan and the Cowichan Green Community as we celebrate Bike to work week in the Cowichan Valley. This week will promote and celebrate cycling as a healthy mode of transportation. Bike to work week is celebrated across Canada and has been an annual event in the Cowichan Valley. We invite everyone to register to either be a single rider,

or register as a team. Please register at https://www. biketowork.ca/cowichanvalley The three Cowichan Valley bike shops, Cycle Therapy, Cowichan Cycles, and Experience Cycling will be hosting Celebration events throughout the week. Please find the list of events below, events may be added, please keep checking website for updates:

BIKE TO WORK BREAKFAST STATIONS

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Monday May 29

Cycle Therapy

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Tuesday May 30

Cycle Therapy

6:30 – 8:30am

Wednesday May 31

Experience Cycling

6:30 – 8:30am Location tba

Thursday June 1

Experience Cycling

6:30 – 8:30am location tba

Friday June 2

Cowichan Cycles

6:30 – 8:30am

Please tell all of your friends, family and co-workers to join us for Bike to work week, we would love to see everyone register and then join us at the celebration stations

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Cycling Ticks all the Boxes

his is it folks… the weather is finally changing. Winter is over. Spring and summer cycling is upon us. The Cowichan is exploding with many more folk who are discovering the benefits of riding a bike. Pete Stevenson, a well known local cyclist says, “Cycling is a sport that is unique compared to running because you just keep burning calories while you ride and you can ride for hours if you want… and after all, who wants to run for hours?” Pete’s right! Cycling is unique and the benefits are enormous. First, cycling is a social activity (though great to do on your own as well). You can get out with a friend or a group of friends and get your fresh air, catch up, solve the worlds problems all while burning zero gas and loads of carbs. Then you can share a well-earned snack at a local Coffee Shop at the end of your ride. I was told when interviewing a competitor at a race in Quebec a few years back that in the business world, cycling is the new golf!

Riding a bike is also great for weight loss; re-habilitating injuries; getting your low-impact exercise. A recent study found that people with knee pain and osteoarthritis can improve their condition when cycling. Cycling builds muscle; provides you with an aerobic workout that is great for your heart, your brain (yup it can make you smarter!), and your circulatory system. A recent study in Medicine & Science in Sports & Exercise spent five years looking at the activity of 1,500 subjects. Those riding regularly were 31% less likely to develop high blood pressure. Pedaling a bike can even build bone. Pete also casually mentioned that cyclists make better lovers and I recently read that the British Heart Foundation found that cyclist are perceived as 13% more intelligent and cooler than non-cyclists. Sandra Beggs, Owner, Cycle Therapy located Downtown Duncan

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Cowichan Bio-Diesel Co-Op Hosts Open House Of Local Bio-Diesel Station

ind out more about the benefits of bio-diesel at our May Open House. See first-hand how bio-diesel is produced from waste cooking oil and try it in your diesel car using our new Green & Go biofuel station - no conversion necessary, just fill and go! Local governments and local business fleets located within the Cowichan Valley who are seeking more sustainable fuel options are invited to join us Friday May 12, 2 - 4:30 p.m. Public, families and all who are interested in local sustainability initiatives are welcomed to join us on Saturday May 13, 10am â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 3pm. Join us for one of these free info sessions to learn more about the mechanical, environmental and social

benefits of bio-diesel for you and your community. The Cowichan Bio-Diesel Co-op has been supplying bio-diesel made from recycled waste cooking oil to all its members since 2005. All events at Cowichan BioDiesel Facility at Bings Creek Recycling Centre, 3900 Drinkwater Road, Duncan. Fo rmore info plase contact us at info@ smellbetter.org or call 250 597 1491. The Cowichan Bio-Diesel Co-op has been supplying bio-diesel made from recycled waste cooking oil to all its members since 2005. For more info on how to make your car smell like French fries visit the Cowichan Bio-diesel Co-op at www.smellbetter.org

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

Viridian Solar Panel Install at Cowichan Green Community

ust as the sun is starting to reappear, Cowichan Green Community (CGC) is thrilled to be the recipient of a $10,000 donation from Viridian Energy Co-operative for 10 solar panels. The panels were installed last week by three members of the Viridian team, working on the south facing side of The Station, (formerly The Phoenix) CGC’s building at 360 Duncan Street. The install was completed using a new electric solar panel lift to get the modules up to the roof safely. “When we purchased this building in 2012, it was our dream to have solar energy,” explained Judy Stafford, Executive Director of CGC. “Watching the escalating expenses of our extensive renovations however, meant that dream had to be put on hold … until now! When the Viridian team asked if we would like to have panels installed as a donation we couldn’t believe it. I understand it was a tricky install so we are extra grateful for their generosity and perseverance.”

Viridian Energy installed a 2.65 kW system on the CGC roof which will produce an average of 2915 kWh annually. This power will directly offset the cost of energy provided by BC Hydro. Similar to other installs that Viridian Energy has done across Vancouver Island, CGC’s new system has started small and can be expanded as the organization grows. The size of the roof is ideal for additional panels so CGC and Viridian is appealing to the community to get involved. Each $1,000.00 donated will purchase one more panel and the donor is eligible for a charitable tax receipt. So let’s all work together and make this a start of a solar downtown! For more information on other CGC initiatives please visit cowichangreencommunity. org. For more details on Viridian Energy Cooperative and how they are empowering communities across Vancouver Island visit viridianenergy.ca. For more information on this event, please contact the Cowichan Green Community at 250-748-8506 or info@ cowichangreencommunity. org

image G Simgleton

What is a Silent Quaker Meeting? Quakers (also known as “Friends”) use silence to allow us to discover inward stillness. We sit together listening for the small, still voice of god or light that we believe is within each living being. Occasionally, someone speaks out of the silence. Quaker values include simplicity, peace, integrity, community, equality, and stewardship. Silent listening leads Quakers to being active advocates for human rights, social justice and environmental justice. The roots of the Quaker tradition are in 17th Century Christianity, but contemporary Quakers have a wide variety

of beliefs from many faiths. They share the traditions of silent worship, radical equality, and decision-making through spirit-led consensus. Cowichan Valley Quakers began meeting together in their homes more than 30 years ago. We now meet at 10:30 on the first and third Sunday of each month in the St. Ann’s Garden Club building at Providence Farm. Visitors are welcome to share the experience of a silent Quaker meeting. Following an hour of silent listening, we join hands to close the meeting. We then share introductions, our thoughts, and announcements followed by coffee, muffins, and conversation with people who will enjoy getting to know you and answering your questions. For more information, visit our website at www.cowichanvalley.quaker. ca or the Cowichan Valley Quakers facebook page. Submitted by John Scull

Tips to Create Bee Gardens on the West Coast Islands

here is no doubt that pollinator decline is serious on the west coast islands but the public misses this fact. The main reason for loss of our precious pollinators is because of a loss of what they need to live: food: nectar and pollen and a place to nest and reproduce. When I say pollinators, I mean the hundreds of wild pollinators mostly native solitary bees that the island came with in the first place to effectively pollinate a thousand species of native flowering trees, shrubs, berries and herbaceous annuals and perennials that are an integral part of our ecosystem life support on the west coast islands, the ecological services providing nutrition in our food

via insect pollination, our water cycle, natural pest control. ‘Certified Pollinator Friendly’ means that through proper site preparation, planning and garden design, the needs of all pollinators and other beneficial insects likely to visit the garden are provided so that they can thrive. Researchers recommend that the most effective way to sustain our pollinators is to plant more nectar and pollen producing native and ornamental flowering trees, shrubs, berries and herbaceous annuals and perennials throughout our urban and rural landscapes. Certified pollinator friendly landscapes have the following features: 1. They are sunny and warm. These places produce the most nectar and pollen. 2. Do not let any invasive plants survive. Overall invasive plants do not support many native pollinator species. 3. All plants must be adapted to the site in terms of moisture availability etc. Native plants are likely to be the most drought hardy. Ideally 50% of the plants

should be native. Please contact the author for lists of plants that are appropriate for the west coast gardens. 4. Each plant must occupy at least 1 square meter, the minimum to serve the needs of pollinators. Bigger blocks feed pollinators better. All bees coevolved in places that provided acres of flowers to forage on. 5. Certified pollinator friendly gardens provide a broad spectrum of flower shapes and sizes to accommodate all the sizes of all bees that live here. For our area, this means flower need to be from 6 to 25 mm in length. We have 200 species of bees to care for here. 6. Diversity of flowers is also necessary to provide adequate nutrition in the diet of our pollinators especially with regard to providing probiotics. Nine to 50 kinds of flowers are recommended 7. Full season bloom (Feb – Oct) is a must. Pollinators need food all season, like us. 8. Routinely ‘deadhead your

garden’ to provide abundant fresh flowers all season long. 9. Nectar cannot be produced if there is not adequate water for the plants to make nectar. Drip irrigation is required especially during drought. The goal is to help our pollinators through the tough times. 10. Protect places in your garden are used by native ground nesting bees. Seventy percent of our original pollinators nest in the ground and provide significant pollination services. They cannot not thrive when the garden is constantly tilled or mulched. They need permanently undisturbed nesting sites. 11. Pollinators thrive in places that use NO PESTICIDES Follow these recommendations and you should be able to bring abundant pollinators to you garden all season long. Ted Leischner and ALL the pollinators on the west coast islands.

Cut Broom in Bloom By Joanne Sales, Director of Broombusters Invasive Plant Society www.broombusters.org

May is the best month to cut broom! When you cut broom in bloom, the roots will die in the summer’s heat. Why? Because all the energy is in the flowers. Cut it now at ground level or below – and it will die. The real problem with Scotch broom is the seeds – not the roots. Roots die easily, but those seeds? Each plant can produce 18,000 seeds which can stay viable for 30-40 years! So there are two things we want to do. 1. Stop the spread of seeds. Use loppers and cut down the

pioneers, single plants and small clusters. Gradually move towards the denser areas. Draw the line on the road or park: The broom stops here! 2. Keep previous years’ seeds from sprouting. How? Broom needs sun. Seeds will not sprout in the shade. But seeds can’t tell the difference between the shade of grass and a tall fir. If you only cut, you keep the ground cover and the seeds don’t sprout. Pulling creates disturbed soil, and broom loves it – and seeds sprout. If a plant is too large, cut off all green, living branches. Big broom dies easily. Broom can be taken to the dump, burned, or composted if cut before the seed pods form. Small amounts will compost in the

forest. Some towns will pick up or chip broom. Broombusters can sometimes help if contacted before cutting. Especially Chemainus, Maple Bay, a few other areas. Check out www. broombusters.org. May Steps to Take Adopt a piece of road, field, park or beach.

Arrange pick up, chip up or drop off. Go outside with loppers in hand. Cut the broom to ground level or below. Stack or remove to appropriate place. Wear good shoes and gloves. Have fun! Thanks for volunteering. Cut Broom in Bloom!

Green your Diesel for Less!

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Judith Quinlan a retired physio therapist and the owner of That Cat Hotel www. ThatCatHotel.ca

So you are thinking of bringing a kitten into your home, and you want to do what’s best for it. Here are a few suggestions: First, try not to separate any kittens from their mother before 12 weeks of age. They learn so much from their first family. They learn litter box training by observing their mother’s toilet habits. When you welcome them into your house, make sure the litterbox has low sides for kittens to climb easily, uses the same litter as in the previous home, and is in a similar location. Of course there might be accidents, but most kittens will adjust to their new litterbox fairly quickly. Their mother also teaches them scent-marking around the home.

A Piece of the Sun Wood-fired Masonry Heaters come in many shapes and sizes. Larger units designed to heat whole houses in colder climates can weigh up to 10,000 kg! Smaller heaters designed for milder climates and/or smaller areas can weigh less than 500kg. Of course even these lighter heaters are quite a bit heavier than metal box stoves. This is because they have dense ‘semiconductive’ earthen mass that effectively absorbs the heat from a hot fire and thereafter gradually release it into the living space. Whatever their size, all masonry heaters have one thing in common: Burn hot and store the heat. In other words, rather than attempting to have a slow gradual fire (ala metal box stoves with negligible heat storage capacity) masonry heaters decouple the heat generation from delivery. In this way the cleanest possible combustion of wood is ensured;

Let’s assume mom is welltrained and has learned some proper behaviors. Rubbing on furniture is better than scratching it. Scratching posts are OK (and need to be put around the house for your new kitten), but pee marking isn’t. In cats, urine marking isn’t a mostly male thing like it is for dogs, so having a kitten trained by the mother is a big plus for reducing the risk of this behavior. Kitten fighting is totally normal. They inherit an instinct for chasing prey and their mothers guide them in learning how to focus it. Their litter-mates also are important in teaching them how much pouncing and biting is too much. Any kitten who has never been cuffed by a litter-mate hasn’t learned how to behave! Most of the attacking is all about fun, but start early with toys that your kitten can attack and chase rather than allowing it to bite and chase you. (Yes, this is hard the effects of operator error are minimized; and even damp wood, which will diminish any fire, is less prone to smouldering because we are not attempting to slow the fire down in the first place. Simply put, the most efficient way to consume the least amount of wood is to burn it as hot as possible (over 800c) in a fire chamber designed to handle the intensity, and then harvest as much of the heat as possible. Fortunately a very hot fire generates immense expansions pressures which means the hot gasses can then be channelled through hollow earthen chambers, and only a very small proportion of the heat produced must be sacrificed to sustain proper chimney-draft. The other 90% or so of the heat is thereby absorbed by the heater’s body and thereafter released as gentle far infra red wavelengths. This ‘real world’ efficiency of alwaysoptimized combustion, thorough heat harvesting and gradual heat delivery is why masonry heaters burn less fuel than any other type

to avoid – they are so cute. But you’ll regret it later if you don’t.) The kitten you adopt at 12 weeks old should have already had its first vaccination and a 12 week booster shot. A 16 week booster shot is also recommended, but talk to your vet about this. You also need to be prepared for spaying or neutering. There is no advantage to waiting until a female cat has already been in heat, and there are risks created by late spaying, such as an increased risk of breast tumours. The risk for late male neutering is that your kitten might take on fighting with feral males or disappear looking for females. The urban world is infested with feral cats whose lives are short and dangerous and full of suffering from fleas, worms, infections, heart worms, ticks, ear mites, wounds, mange, predators, cold – the list goes on. Be responsible and have

KITTENS your kitten fixed early. If I had my way, every city would make it illegal for people to own unfixed cats and dogs unless they are registered breeders! (just saying...) OK enjoy your adorable new kitten. Now its your turn to be a great mom or dad for it.

Masonry heater with warm bench. Photo Lars Helbro

of stove. But the greatest attribute of masonry heaters is that they are ‘huggable’. As wonderful as absorbing far-infra-red heat from sunlight or a wood stove can feel, snuggling up to a large body of fire-warmed earth offers even greater comfort. Most comforting of all are heaters with warmed benches and backrests, which offer all the medicinal benefits of far-infra-red heat beds, but without the electromagnetic radiation.

As the weather warms up and trees get on with absorbing and storing the abundance of summer solar energy, it is good to know there is a simple, time-tested, low carbon footprint way to harvest and utilize that energy through the colder months.

Patrick Amos, is a stove mason and natural building youth worker amosclayworks.ca 250 748 2089

Lucky Dogs...

Raw feeding FAQs…

Debbie Wood is a certified Small Animal Naturopath and can be reached at 250-597-7DOG.

One of my fun jobs is speaking at seminars to teach people how to switch their carnivores to a healthy, balanced, species appropriate diet and there is a list of frequently asked questions. Let me share them with you. Is it going to be expensive? It can be, but doesn’t have to be. Just like your own diet, the more you depend on others to prepare the food, the more you pay. But if you can shop sales, buy in bulk, and use your imagination, raw feeding can be quite reasonable. Remember that your dog doesn’t require the finer cuts of meat, she can do just as well on tails, ankles, and innerds. And when your dog is living a healthy lifestyle and has a strong immune system, you won’t be spending money at the Vet as often. I tried raw before and it didn’t work for my dog. There can be many factors as to why raw doesn’t “work” right away. Some dogs don’t like the new healthier food and may need time to adjust. Switching to a healthier lifestyle often comes with a “healing crisis” and

symptoms can appear worse before they get better. This is a natural event and your Naturopath can help you through it. My dog just wouldn’t eat the raw food. Switching can be daunting for some dogs and their humans. If your human child has been eating junk food for years and you suddenly demand he eat veggies and whole grains, there’s going to be some push back. Refusing to eat, pouting, negotiating, manipulating… But the need for healthy fuel should outweigh any of these responses. You may need to go slowly and use your imagination to manipulate right back. Is raw food okay for my little dog/shepherd/old dog? Absolutely. All dogs are carnivores and as different as they are on they outside, they are all the same on the inside; little wolves. It’s never too late to switch although older dogs may need more time to adjust and certain situations may require tweaking the basic diet. Is it safe? Feeding your dog a species appropriate diet is very safe if you know what you’re doing. It’s not as easy as scooping a cup out of a bag and you will need to do some work on providing a variety of meats, bones, and organs in appropriate ratios

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www.spiritgate.ca michelle@spiritgate.ca 250 737 1484 to get a balanced diet. Hard recreational bones can break teeth, and falling into just giving your dog what she wants can create problems if she only wants chicken necks, for example. Handling raw meat can be a concern for you and your family and hygienic practices are encouraged. The

benefits of feeding a raw meat diet to your carnivore far outweigh the risks. Ask your Naturopath about switching your dog to a nutrient dense, healthy diet.

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DIRECTORY OF LOCAL SERVICES

Valley Voice Magazine readers directory a great way to discover local services and businesses. 2 sizes of ad space are available to suit every business message and budget. Affordable, stylish and straight to the point.

Directory Size A - 1 logo + 8-12 word listing Full Colour 1 X $63 6X $53 12X $43 Black & White 1 X $52 6X $42 12X $32

Contact Adrienne Richards for more info 250 510 6596 or by phone to adrienne@cowichanvalleyvoice.com

Deadline May 12 for June 2017 Issue 103 Bookkeeping

Beauty

Choose us to promote your business and services. Over 30,000 readers! Contact Adrienne Richards 250 510 6596 adrienne@cowichanvalleyvoice.com for a 2017 Rate Card.

SKINTASTIC FACIAL SPA and Organic Spray Tan Studio www.skintasticmedispa.ca

PUT YOUR FACE IN MY HANDS Jane Knight 250 514 2223

Contracting

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ROOFING & CONTRACTING INC. Roofing • Fences • Landscaping • Home Renos

Glyn Williams 250-466-5201 white.rhino@outlook.com Concrete • Polished Concrete • Placement & Finishing

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Counselling

Anxiety, Depression,Trauma, Chronic Stress, Self-Esteem, Life Transitions Alison Etter RPC, RTC, MEd 250-324-3040 www.breakthroughcounselling.ca

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Help Wanted

Garden Design

Arborvitae Garden Design

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Custom Garden Design, Outdoor Living Spaces and Chillatoriums for Home & Business

Farms & Food

More than a Meat Shop

Gluten Free/Organic Pasta’s, Organic Meat, Homemade Sausage, International Foods. The Duncan Butcher 430 Trans Canada Hwy 250 748 -6377

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

Health and Healing Acute or Chronic conditions • Substance dependency • Facial Rejuvenation • MSP & extended health coverage if applicable

Customizable Organic Mattresses, Pillows, Linens Locally made Platform Beds and Furniture

Wu Wei Acupuncture & Acupressure Clinic Frauke McCashin, R.Ac., Dipl.TCM 1 - (250) 710 3581 Mill Bay & Duncan www.worldwuwei.com

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Robin Gale 250 732 5859 Join Brett Holland for Jingui Golden Shield Qi classes every Wednesday 50% oﬀ your ﬁrst month of Qi Gong!

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Support from the inside Monday-Thursday 250-597-7364

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

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

Remembering Mount Prevost Hillcrest School Teach an Individual to Fish

remember arriving home from school as a child, walking through the front door into a sea of smells. Excitedly, I would venture into the kitchen of my childhood – a room too small to accommodate all of my siblings pushy little fingers, so eager to taste whatever was cooking. To live with a talented cook in a less than desirable kitchen meant that there was not a lot of space to get involved with the task at hand, but we never missed an opportunity to lick whatever remnants were offered to us. I can recall the feeling of amazement as I watched my gran peel away the skins of vegetables, so steady and confident. I would be tasked with delivering the scraps to the compost, serving up dinner for all of the wriggling creatures that lived there. I can still hear the sounds of wings flapping as the insects buzzed around me, the smell of the compost making my breath catch in my throat. Keeping a close eye on the wasps, I would sneak away to the garden where adventure awaited.

Having access to such healthy food was a brilliant gift, one that should be shared for all to benefit. But in this environment, many face barriers to affordable, nutritious, and locally-grown food. The Cowichan Green Community wishes to change that. Funded through NutritionLink Services Society, Chow Down is a series of weekly cooking classes geared towards families who struggle with food security and are interested in learning basic skills in the kitchen, would like to learn cost efficient and nutrient dense recipes and to gain confidence in the kitchen. These FREE cooking classes happen every Monday from 4-6:30 PM in central Duncan. Child minding is provided and pre-registration is required! For more information or to reserve your spot please contact Jennifer at 250-7488606 or by email jennifer@ cowichangreencommunity.org.

Larissa Bouvier, Cowichan Green Community KinPark Intern

Carlton Stone incorporated his lumber business as the Hillcrest Lumber Company in the Sahtlam area in 1917. By 1927 his company was one of the largest on Vancouver Island. Homes were built near the mill site for employees and their families who came from every ethnic background and nationality. At first the employees’ children attended the one room Sahtlam School. The eventual increase in that school’s population finally resulted in the splitting of the Sahtlam School District in 1932 to create Hillcrest School District comprising the Hillcrest mill site and properties. A new schoolhouse called Mount Prevost Hillcrest was built on Pollock Road by Carlton Stone for all the children in the area. It opened with 37 students under teacher James Edward Somerled MacDonald. 1934-1935 Mount Prevost Hillcrest School class photo with teacher James E. S. MacDonald Two years later another classroom was added on and a second teacher hired. The school continued to operate with two classrooms and two teachers until the fall of 1942. The previous April the Japanese contingent at the mill site had been evacuated by government authorities resulting in a decline in student

numbers so that only one room and one teacher was required. By the end of the 1942-1943 school year the timber in the area had run out and Carlton Stone was forced to move his operations to Mesachie Lake. The Sahtlam mill site was shut down and Mount Prevost Hillcrest School closed its doors for the last time. The schoolhouse was moved to Mesachie Lake in 1943 where it was revitalized as Berry’s Store. About 2011 the store was torn down to make room for a ballfield and the lumber from the building sold. No remnants of the school exist today. The Cowichan Valley Schools Heritage Society (CVSHS) has been working to document the histories of former schools in the area and recognizing them with the erection of small schoolbell shaped signs as close to their original locations as possible. At 10 am on Saturday, May 27, 2017 a CVSHS schoolbell sign marking Mount Prevost Hillcrest School will be unveiled at the driveway entrance to 4350 Pollock Road. Former students, former Hillcrest Lumber Company employees and members of the Cowichan Valley community are invited to attend this event. Please bring along your class photos, schoolhouse photos, stories and memories to share with those in attendance. Submitted by Carolyn Prellwitz, Retired Teacher, School District 79 Secretary-Treasurer, CVSHS

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

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

Aries (March 21-April 19) Despite restrictions until May 21 for Mercury retrograde purchases like cars, trucks, bikes, computers, printers and cell phones, you want to spend money! Plus you are giving more thought to cash flow and major purchases. Meanwhile, Mars will make you forthright and direct in all your communications with others. Yes - you will be a force to contend with! Be careful because you can become argumentative and get carried away with your ideas and opinions. Easy does it. Speaking louder does not make people hear you better. . Taurus (April 20-May 20) You are pumped with energy this month because this is the only time all year when the Sun is in your sign. This is your chance to recharge your batteries for the rest of the year! Not only will you have increased energy, you will also have more opportunities to explore because the Sun will attract important people and favourable situations to you. Make the most of this! Mars will make you aggressive in financial matters. Note shopping restrictions for cars, trucks, bikes, computers, cell phones, printers until May 21. Then you can shop till you drop. Gemini (May 21-June 20) The Sun is hiding in your chart this month, which means you will prefer to work behind the scenes. Use this time to plan what you want for your new personal year, which begins after your birthday. How do you want

your new year to be different from this past year? Define some goals with deadlines. Even though you want to hide in the tall grass and watch the world go by; nevertheless, Mars in your sign will pump your energy and encourage you to go after what you want. That’s why your engery will blow hot and cold. Cancer (June 21-July 22) This month you will be more popular. Everyone wants to see your face. Friends will demand more time with you and you will be more involved with groups and organizations. You might be appointed to head a committee or an organization. Incidentally, this same time frame is an excellent time for you to make goals for the future. In fact, share your dreams with someone to get their feedback. Meanwhile, you will also be involved with something secretive or behind the scenes for the next month. Got something to hide? Leo (July 23-Aug. 22) The Sun is at the top of your chart acting like a flattering spotlight on you this month, which means you look fabulous to bosses, parents and VIPs. Obviously, you can use this to your advantage by asking for you want. Make your pitch to the boss. Push your agenda. This will be easy because not only does the Sun make you look fabulous, Mars will help you to deal with them. This is very favourable for those in management or if you have to direct the efforts of others. “Move that mountain!” “Build that bridge!” “Can I have a coffee?” Virgo (Aug. 23-Sept. 22) Do what you can to break free from routine this month. Travel somewhere if possible because you need a change of scenery. You want stimulation, adventure

•Release trapped emotions and find health and happiness •Take down your heart - wall and welcome in your hopes and dreams •Achieve self-confidencePioneering reflex inhibition and integration work

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and a chance to learn something new! This same time frame is excellent to pursue opportunities in publishing, the media, medicine, the law and higher education. Your interaction with people from other cultures will benefit you. Meanwhile, fiery Mars, which is at the top of your chart for the next six weeks, will arouse your ambition! Major! It doesn’t get much better than this. Libra (Sept. 23-Oct. 22) This month you are focused on taxes, debt, shared property, inheritances and insurance issues. Most of these financial matters will involve others as well. But you can sort this out, especially while Jupiter in your sign gives you divine protection. Meanwhile, you are pumped for adventure and change, which is why you want to travel! Do anything to expand your mind now because this will be gratifying to you. Contact with ex-partners and old friends will be classic at this time. Fear not – you’re on top of things. Scorpio (Oct. 23-Nov. 21) You need more sleep this month. Just accept this fact and go with it. Be kind to yourself cuz you’re bagged. You will also focus on partners and close friends more than usual because the Sun is opposite your sign. (This is the only time all year this happens.) To offset this, Mars will boost your sex drive and make you quite intense about many issues. In particular, you will defend your rights regarding shared property and inheritances. In fact, you might have disputes in these areas. Take time out for fun and romance. Life is getting exciting! Sagittarius (Nov. 22-Dec. 21) It’s time to roll up your sleeves and get busy! This is why you are setting such high standards for yourself and others. The bottom line is you want to work hard to get better organized. You want to be as efficient and productive as possible. Therefore, get hold of shelving systems, file folders, labels, cleaning supplies, paint or whatever it is you need to do a great job with your ambitious plans to reorganize your world. Do it right. Many of you want to redecorate your digs and make where you live look more attractive. Note: Be patient with partners and close friends. Stay chill.

MAY FORECAST Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan. 19) This is the perfect month for a vacation. If you can’t get away for a vacation, then socialize and hang out with fun people. Explore the arts; enjoy the theatre and musical performances. Be aware that sports events and playful activities with children will bring you joy and good times. Actually, your style of relating to others will be charming and diplomatic. Do not think this means you will let things slide on the job. This won’t happen because fiery Mars will help you to work hard and direct the efforts of others. “Back to the salt mines! No slackers!” Aquarius (Jan. 20-Feb. 18) Your focus will be on home, family and your private life this month. You will love to cocoon at home and be comforted by familiar surroundings. (“Where’s my baby blue blankey?”) For some, an interaction with a parent will be more significant. Nevertheless, Mars will encourage playful times as well as vacations as well as inject energy and pizzazz into your social calendar. Enjoy sports events, the theatre, musical performances and fun times with kids. Make time in your busy agenda to really do what you feel like doing. “Is everybody ready? Blast off!” Pisces (Feb. 19-March 20) You hit the pavement running this month because you have a jam-packed schedule. Appointments, increased reading, writing and studying, conversations with everyone plus short trips will keep you hopping. You are also keen to enlighten someone about something. Meanwhile, your home scene will be chaotic and hectic due to residential moves, renovations, redecorating or visiting guests. Fortunately, fair Venus in your sign will help you be tactful with this insanity. Remember to accept the generosity of others own because Jupiter encourages wealth to come your way. Just say thank you! . www.georgianicols.com

Saskatchewan and Manitoba combined. Although that’s a big area, thinking of the ocean in square kilometres is just skimming the surface. The ocean isn’t just a cold, wet seascape blanketed by howling winds. Below the surface, life thrives throughout the water column, top to bottom, warm or cold, winter or summer.

Marine protected areas are one piece of a complex puzzle

he federal government recently created two marine protected areas in the Pacific region and has committed to increase ocean protection from one per cent to 10 by 2020. But will this be enough? Canada has the longest coastline of any nation, but our country doesn’t end at its ocean shores. With a 200-nautical-mile economic zone and international obligations, Canada is responsible for almost three million square kilometres of ocean, an area roughly the size of British Columbia, Alberta,

Northern aquatic food webs are rich with creatures of all shapes and sizes, from tiny plankton, urchins and sea stars to fish, orcas and sea lions. That the world’s largest living creature ever, the blue whale, feeds on some of the smallest, plankton, is astonishing in itself. Yet the plankton thread in the food web doesn’t end in the whale’s stomach; whale poop is also a critical part of the marine food web, cycling nutrients from the surface to creatures at the bottom. The way otters keep kelp forests healthy by eating sea urchins is one of myriad interconnected relationships in Canadian coastal waters. Although barnacles and clams live in a single location, some whales and fish travel thousands of kilometres within a single season. Salmon don’t even have the ocean as a boundary, swimming far inland to spawn.

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How can we understand and manage such complex systems? Natural cycles in Canada’s coastal waters include currents, tides, upwellings, migrations and seasons. Trying to predict how multiple factors like pollution, industrial fishing, climate change, ocean acidification, glass sponge reefs, ships, rights and title claims, kayakers, recreational fishing lodges and renewable energy sites will interact with these cycles is becoming increasingly more complicated, and important, than ever. With all these uncertainties and complexities, how can we know if marine protected areas are effective? To understand how creating a refuge works, let’s go back to a simple 1936 study of an “ecosystem.” It was a test tube with two microscopic single cell species, prey and predator. In that oversimplified ecosystem, the predatory species ate the prey, and then died because, without prey, they could not survive. Putting material in the test tube so the prey could hide and multiply changed everything, creating a variety of unpredictable outcomes. However, one pattern emerged: It was far more likely that both prey and predator would survive. Expanding the concept to marine protected areas, this simple experiment bodes well for one top predator (humans) and prey (fish). Even though science can’t predict whether protected areas will help specific stocks increase, evidence suggests they show promise as “nurseries” for fish and other ocean wildlife and can provide a buffer against our lack of understanding.

Canada’s two new Pacific marine protected areas shield magnificent, fragile glass sponge reefs near Haida Gwaii and important seabird nesting sites on the Scott Islands. Safeguards are in place to protect the glass sponge reefs and the countless species that use them for refuge. However, current protections for the area surrounding the Scott Islands are too vague to reduce threats to the millions of seabirds that depend on the forage area to breed and feed. The federal government deserves credit for beginning to develop a network of marine protected areas. They’re an essential part of keeping ocean ecosystems healthy, but they must have meaningful safeguards. Protected areas are just one aspect of keeping coastal ecosystems healthy. Responsible stewardship also requires effective fisheries management, strong penalties for polluters and a global carbon emissions reduction. With pollution, climate change and increased shipping and development along Canada’s coast, it’s more important than ever to reduce the risks to ecosystems that provide us with the fish we eat, the air we breathe and the bounty of nature we love. Marine protected areas on their own won’t be enough to do all that, but with strong regulations and safeguards, they’re one piece of the intricate, multidimensional puzzle. David Suzuki is a scientist, broadcaster, author and cofounder of the David Suzuki Foundation. Written with contributions from David Suzuki Foundation Senior Editor Ian Hanington. Learn more at www.davidsuzuki.org..

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

Proposed LNG is not just a Mill Bay Issue. It is a Cowichan Valley Issue The proposed LNG Project in the Cowichan Valley and Saanich Inlet is not simply a Bamberton/Mill Bay issue. It would impact all of the Cowichan Valley communities, the Wsanec First Nations, Songhees Nation, Cowichan Tribes and far beyond. Natural gas from the fracking fields of North Eastern B.C. and Alberta would be brought by pipeline to the Washington Coast, then by undersea pipeline to Bamberton (7km south of Mill Bay). There, an extensive facility of floating and land based infrastructure would be required for the liquefaction process. Storage for millions of tonnes of LNG, (See National Energy Board export licenses, October 2015), and loading facilities for behemoth mega-tankers would be needed. (search LNG Carrier). A further pipeline from Bamberton, through the Cowichan Valley, would bring LNG to another massive facility in Sarita Bay (10km north of Bamfield on the West Coast). From there, tankers would depart for the Asian Export Market. LNG proposals and climate change necessitate serious attention. We encourage all those with concerns to talk about it with family, friends and foes, with neighbours, school and work peers. Ask local business people what they think, and in particular, ask young people. Inform yourselves, raise awareness, be proactive. We cannot afford to be complacent! Submitted by Richard Palmer

LNG Dream is a Nightmare

View from Bamberton Provincial Park Beach looking south to proposed LNG project site. Artwork:Richard Palmer. Image:Jeremy Koreski.

t is curious that Liberal leader Clark opened her official campaign with a return to a rusty old promise – ‘the dream of LNG’, as the Vancouver Sun put it (Ap. 13). Actually, Liquefied Natural Gas facilities and their attending pipelines and tankers are nightmares for this province. For southern Vancouver Island, Steelhead LNG is our monster under the bed. It is real, not imagined.

Steelhead LNG is working on a proposed LNG facility in the Saanich Inlet. Four W̱ SÁNEĆ Nations are unequivocally opposed to the proposal, which is in their territory. A report from the BC department of the Environment (1996) referred to the inlet as ‘an important and sensitive ecosystem physically, ecologically and culturally. The area is world renowned for its beauty. The Inlet is a fjord, with unusual features related to water circulation and the presence of a natural deep layer of low oxygen water. Saanich Inlet has a number of special and sensitive species that are supported by the unusual physical characteristics of the Inlet. In addition, Saanich Inlet is highly valued by humans and supports important cultural and recreational uses. A relatively low flushing rate and sensitive coastal ecology make it susceptible to human influence.’ Our bad dreams actually begin in northern Alberta and BC with fracked shale gas and ensuing escaped methane (worse that CO2 for climate change) from widespread leaks, contaminated ground water, and earthquakes. The gas for Steelhead will be piped down

to Cherry Point in Washington, across the Salish Sea bed, through Satellite Channel Marine Sanctuary, and into Saanich Inlet. Next, the gas will be cooled to -162C. If cooled by water, water will be pulled out of the inlet and returned contaminated and about 10 degrees warmer; if by power, that power will likely be generated by gas, with gas flaring (more methane) and loud generators. Then the tankers, at the rate of 3-5 a week, will be filled and sent on their way. The proponents concede that the filling arm is the weakest part of the facility. LNG tankers are approximately 3 Queen-class ferries long. Tankers would cross Satellite Channel and ferry routes, and turn into the shipping lanes of Haro Straight, presumably avoiding Kinder Morgan tankers…oops the nightmare as usual digresses… where they further risk endangered species such as resident orcas. If cargo leaks and hits a spark, the explosive consequences would be catastrophic. But there is more to our uneasy sleep: Canada and BC have no specific regulations for this industry, and both have devalued analysis responsibilities to proponents, in this case one that violates LNG industry’s own safety

standards (SIGTTO) by siting within a narrow, populated fjord. All this adds up to destabilizing the health and safety of nearby communities, seriously damaging W̱ SÁNEĆ Nations, killing off endangered species, ruining tourist dependent businesses, and turning this beautiful fjord into a contaminated swamp. The promise of a few permanent jobs mocks the concept of sustainability. So what are we going to do about it? The great Jane Jacobs ‘… emphasize(d) self-governance, autonomous thinking, and meaningful and playful interaction’ (Arjen Wals). Organized citizens taking action can put a halt to devastating industries, as proved by Shawnigan Lake Residents amongst others. Elections are a time to wake up and join in. Get organized (join the Saanich Inlet Network!). Vote for parties who will craft and enforce strong environmental regulations. Protect the Saanich Inlet.

Hilary Strang, Saanich Inlet Network, Steering Committee a citizen led network working to protect the place we love saanichinlet.net saanichinletnet@gmail.com

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