november 2016 Issue 96

owichan

NOVEMBER 2016 ISSUE 96 WILD WINGS GALA I STUDIO TOURS I HOLIDAY FAIRS I LOCAL MUSIC

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Issue 96 NOVEMBER 2016

Published by Cowichan Valley Voice Magazine Editors Sheila & Richard Badman Contact us at: editor@cowichanvalleyvoice.com 250 746 9319 www.cowichanvalleyvoice.com Proofreader Distribution Diana Pink Mike Andringa Advertising Enquiries Please Contact Adrienne Richards 250 510 6596 e-mail adrienne@cowichanvalleyvoice.com Next Ad Deadline NOVEMBER 16 for DECEMBER ISSUE 97 *Non Profit Community Ad Rates available please enquire.

COMMUNITY CALENDAR LISTINGS ARE FREE! Next DEADLINE NOV 12 for DEC 2016 Issue 97 E-mail: Date, Event Title, Time, Location and Cost to: events@cowichanvalleyvoice.com Cowichan Valley Voice Magazine reserves the right to omit and/or edit submitted listings due to space limitations SPECIAL THANKS TO THE FOLLOWING VALLEY VOICES Jenny Bradford, Carol Badman, Pam Stiles, Heather Kaye, Judy Ratzlaff, Stephen Faulkner, Joy Emmanuel, Chantey Dayal, Brett Holland, Pat Selman, Cathi Jefferson, Mary Fox, Catherine Macey, Maki Ikemura, Elizabeth Bailey, Angie Erskine, Ed Williams, Dave Shortill, Irvin Bahnmann, Polima Isakharova, Andrew Brown, David Coulson, Allan Brown, Robbin Olive, Lise Duncan, Dara DeBin, Heather Lauzon, Josef Graf, Christine Beattie, Elia Manon, Michelle Atterby, Tracey Hanson, Veronica Scott, Gill Polard, Tracey Hanson, Debbie Wood, Nick Brown, Pat Amos, Christy Greenwood, Chantell Foss, Cheryl Galloway, David Suzuki, Rick Dennis, 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 and Parksville

Cover Image: “Above the River (Trumpeter Swans)” courtesy of Robert Bateman www.robertbateman.ca To see more of his works visit The Robert Bateman Centre 470 Belleville Street, Victoria

Christmas Issue Deadline November 16 Be part of this HOLIDAY ISSUE to promote your gifts, Christmas markets and specialty services!

Please contact Adrienne at 250 510 6596 adrienne@cowichanvalleyvoice.com for Holiday Ad Specials and 2016/2017 Rate Card

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OUR COMMUNITY November Events 6-7 Fundraising Event for Syrian Refugee Family 14 FIESTA – An Ethical Trade Fair 15 Ladies Night in Cowichan Bay 18 Koksilah River Watershed 20 DDBIA Small Town, Big Cozy 32 Cowichan Business For Business 38 Cowichan Valley Heritage Quilters 47 Buy Local, Save the Planet 59 Weaving is Therapeutic and Mindful 62 Community Farm Store 64-66 Websites, Emails And Verbal Lint 68 Happy Retirement Mary Ann & Bobbie Blue 68 November Forecast 70 LOCAL FOOD & DRINK Seasonal Fun at Unsworth Vineyards & Restaurant 8 Tasty Treats at the Duncan Garage Cafe 10 The Tiffin – An Indian Lunch Box 13 Get Phil’d Up Celebrates Anniversary 19 FARM, HOME & GARDEN Cow Op Farmer Profile: hOMe Grown Living Foods16 Sustainable Logging and Milling 41 Designing Green 43 How to Eat Local through Winter 53 Selling your home in the winter 58 Wood-Fired Comfort 60 LOCAL ARTS Celebrating the Music of W.C. Handy 5 Hilda’s Yard Chemainus Theatre 11 Wild Wings Gala with Artist Robert Bateman 16 Brad Allen Creates Beauty with Reclaimed Metal 23 Cathi Jefferson 28 Mary Fox Studio Sale 29 Interview with Conductor Robert Mari 36 Woodworks at Providence Farm 40 10 Tips to Custom Framing your Art 42 Teeny Tiny Art Works 44 Out of Hand Artisan Fair 45 Masimba Marimba Invites You to a Village Gathering 46 BODY, MIND & HEALTH Rolfing With Brett Holland of Island Rolfing 26 Get A Head-start Eating Healthier This Holiday Season 48 Are You An Empath? 50 The Lightroot Quest 52 Green Living 56 Yoga For Wellness 61 CHILDREN & FAMILY Sunrise Winter Fair 25 PETS, RECREATION & NATURE Spirit Gate Farms 54 Draft Horses: Real Horsepower 55 Lucky Dogs...57 David Suzuki 67

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

A Tour of the Blues: Celebrating the Music of W.C. Handy

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he Father of the Blues, W.C. Handy, has a huge fan on Vancouver Island.

Nanaimo’s Andrew Homzy, musician, arranger, jazz scholar and Grammy nominee, is so fond of Handy’s compositions that he has created a revue of some of his best-known tunes: A Tour of the Blues: Celebrating the Music of W.C. Handy.

The revue, will be coproduced by impresario Pat Selman and the Chemainus Valley Cultural Arts Society in November. Handy, one of the most influential American songwriters, penned such classics as St. Louis Blues, Memphis Blues, Yellow Dog Blues and Beale Street Blues in the early 20th century.

One of many early blues musicians, he is credited with giving it its contemporary form, taking it from a regional style — Delta blues — with a limited audience to one of the dominant forces in American music. Homzy, was a key figure on the Montreal jazz scene for more than 40 years, where his Jazz Orchestra, with Homzy on piano, played regularly at the Montreal Jazz Festival. He was nominated for a Grammy for his research into the music of legendary jazz bass pioneer Charles Mingus. Homzy fondly recalls a bus trip he and a schoolmate took to New York

City in 1963 to buy some sheet music after graduating from high school in Cleveland.

Visiting Handy Brothers Music, they met Wyre Handy, W.C.’s son, who kept pulling sheet music off the shelves as they named their favourite Handy tunes, and who refused to take any money for the arrangements they took back home to Cleveland. “We learned a lot while we were in New York,” Homzy recalled.

“But the two or three hours we spent with Mr. Handy were the best time of our trip.”

The revue will feature vocalists Robyn Fortunat, Layla Hansen and Dominique Pashley, along with trumpeters Greg Bush and David Herman, trombonists Darren Nilsson and Craig Burnett, clarinetist Claudio Fantinato, baritone saxophonist Rod Alsop, guitarist Jesse Marshall, bassist Rob Uffen, drummer Alicia Murray and musical director Homzy on piano.

The show runs November 3, 4, 5 and 6 at the Chemainus Gardens Pavilion, 3042 River Rd., Chemainus. Tickets, available at Rainforest Arts, 9781 Willow St., Chemainus, and Oak St. 49th Parallel Grocers, Chemainus, are $20 advance, $15 students, and $25 at the door.

For info call 250 324-1900 or www.cvcas.com

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VINOTECA AT ZANATTA

7-9pm Chemainus United Church Introduction to Essential Oils 6-7:15pm Scoops Whippletree Junction 778422-3310 $15 Also 11/10,17,24 Community Acupuncture Thursdays #103-44 Queens Rd, Duncan Frauke McCashin, RAc 250-710-3581 $15-$45, Also Nov 3,10,17, 24

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Teeny Tiny Art Works Show Opening 125pm PORTALS Island Savings Centre Mon - Sat 10am -5pm runs to 11/25 Schubert ’s First Symphony and Beethoven’s 7th Symphony w/ Robert Mari 7:30 pm Chr Ref. Church 930 Trunk Rd, Duncan $15, Students under 17- $10 Sacred Chant Circle @ Valley Yoga Centre, Come together to chant Sanskrit mantras 7-8:30pm 1021 Islay St. sdbartram@gmail. com by donation Traditional Square Dance w/ The Shady Grove Dance Band, Calls by Peter Sussman & Guests 7:30pm,The Hub, Koksilah Rd For 12+

Join us for Lunch Wed - Sun. Dinner on the Weekends.

Brunch on Sundays.

The Messenger Film Screening, Songbird documentary VIU Lecture Hall, Cowichan Campus, 6:30pm-8:30pm $10, kids free

Event Shuttle Available through

vinoteca.ca

5039 Marshall Rd, Duncan I 250 709 2279 Metal Art by Brad Allen, Photography by Bryan Harvey, Imagine That!, 251 Craig St., Duncan Runs to November 18 Fall Into Flowers 40 original fine art paintings JD STEVENSON Gallery, 9768 Willow St. Chemainus Wed- Sun 11-4:30pm FREE Bird Songs of the Boreal Forest w/ John 1 Neville, bird call recording specialist, Cowichan Estuary Nature Centre, 7pm-9pm $10, kids free

Community Acupuncture Wednesdays #103-44 Queens Rd, Duncan 5-8pm 2 Frauke McCashin, RAc, 250-710-3581 $15$45, Also Nov 9,16, 23, 30

Julie King’s Warmland Opening Reception 3 6-8pm Excellent Frameworks, 28 Station St, Duncan Runs to 11/25

Visit 11 professional artists in their studios map at www.cowichanartisans.com FREE Sidewalk Sale, Beat the rush & come 6 down for great sales & service Downtown Duncan - look for the balloons11am-3pm Sundays at Birds Eye Cove Farm 11am - 3pm 5881 Genoa Bay Rd, Duncan 11/13,20,27 Sunday Jazz Swingkey Quartet 2-5pm Crofton Hotel 1534 Joan Ave $15

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FEAT of CLAY STUDIO FREE intro clay sculpting class for adults 10am-12 or 1-3pm Call Linda at 250-746-5677 to book

Alibi concert w/ Jadea Kelly, 11Sweet Providence Farm Chapel, 7pm, $20 FIESTA World Craft Bazaar Over 20 12 local & global organizations/ businesses selling direct, ethical trade products. 10am 4pm Quw’utsun’ Cultural Ctr, 200 Cowichan Way, Duncan $2

Landscape 3 Ways w/ Karen Killins-Robinson 10am - 4pm Kaleidoscope Quilt Company Whippletree Junction 778 455 4715 $48 Troy Serson 7:30pm Old Firehouse Wine Bar 40 Ingram St, Duncan 250 597 3473

The Clay Hub Collective Instructor 4&5 Visions Artists Show & Sale & Student Show & Sale, 2375 10AM-4PM. Cobble Hill Hall Koksilah Rd 11/4 4-8pm, 11/5 10am-4pm 12&13 3550 Watson Ave Guy Fawkes Party/Symphony Release 5 Weaving Workshop at Providence mulled wine, hot chocolate and pulled Farm, 10 –4pm. $90 if you own an pork sandwiches 5-7PM Unsworth Vineyards, 13Inkle 2915 Cameron Taggart Rd, Mill Bay

Fundraising Event for Syrian Refugee Family Silent auction, Tzin’qua Dancers, Mbira Spirit and more. 7pm Quw’utsun Cultural Centre, 200 Cowichan Way, Duncan Duncan glenoragroupforsyria@gmail.com A Christmas Fair Over 45 vendors! First 25 adults receive a swag bag 10am -4pm 3550 Watson Ave, Cobble Hill Hall 9th Annual CRAFT FAIR, 9 am – 2 pm Valley Seniors Organization 198 Government St, Duncan DJ Mitts 7:30pm Old Firehouse Wine Bar 40 Ingram St, Duncan 250 597 3473

Inkle loom. $150 includes a loom 250-7464024 to register

Koksilah Watershed Beer & Burger w/Cheko - Latin Guitar, Live Auction! The Bay Pub, Cowichan Bay $25 info@cowichanstation.org Auction Sunday La Petite Auction House 1pm 9686 Chemainus Rd and 11/27 14th Annual Nichiren Buddha Society AGM 11 AM, #4 -Johnny Bear Rd. Duncan Yoga for Peace w/ Forest Yogini Collective fundraiser for a Syrian family of 5 who have recently arrived in Canada The HUB, 1012:30pm $20 donation sdbartram@gmail.com Chemainus Classical Concerts presents “The Klezmer Clarinet” Connie Gitlin - clarinet, and Adam Dobres - guitar 2pm, St Michael’s Church, Chemainus $20/$17 250-748-8383

Annual Holiday Shopping Partyat Soul Escape Refreshments and designer Darcie Zibin 4-6pm Soul Escape 9am-6pm 5777 TCH

2nd Annual CWAV Building Fund Gala 6pm 11pm, Cowichan Golf & Country Club 4955 TCH Duncan cwav@cwav.org

Dixie for RASTA Fundraiser Free Radical Dixie band’ w/vegan bake sale & silent auction

Artisans Annual Fall 18 - The Question Is Not 5&6 Cowichan Studio Tour, Sat & Sun. 11 – 5pm 14OVER Enough” documentary VIU Lecture

“The Biggest Little Art Show in the Valley!”

November 4 - 25, 2016

Mondays to Saturdays 10 am-5pm Opening Nov 4 @12-5 pm (Sunday Nov 20 @ 11-5pm) Closing Nov 25th @ 2pm

Portals- The CVAC Centre of Arts, Culture and Heritage 2687 James Street, Duncan, BC

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

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Hall, 7 PM By Donation Taste of Morocco Dinner & Cooking 15 Class w/Gary Faessler 6-9pm, Hudson’s On First 163 First St. 250-597-0066 $80 Trumpeter Swan Conference Opening 16 Ceremonies and Presentations, Quw’utsun’ Cultural & Conference Centre 8:30am-4pm $38 Conference runs to 11/18 www.wildwingsfestival.com,

Making Class 6-7.15pm Scoops 22Chocolate Whippletree Jct 778-422-3310 $40 “Photo Rescue”w/ Pat Haugen, Hardwick Hall, High St at 3rd Ave, Ladysmith www.

LadysmithCameraClub.com $5 drop in fee Talk on Prenatal Bonding Supporting 24 Positive Birthing Outcomes w/ Christina Hamill RCST® 5:30pm SOL Centre 5380 TCH Duncan FREE

Waterfowl and Agriculture, Working Together: Public Forum & Panel Discussion, Quw’utsun’ Ctr 7pm-10pm, By donation

Jenie Thai concert, Providence Farm 25 Chapel, 7:00pm, tickets $20 online (providence.bc.ca) or at Providence Farm Store

Cowichan Bay Ladies Night Scavenger 17 Hunt, Live Music instore sales Cowichan Bay Village Waterfront 5-9pm

Christmas Kick Off, Santa, hayrides, community performances & Fireworks show!

5:30 - 8:30pm Downtown Duncan, FREE

WildWings Nature & Arts Festival Gala, 18 Quw’utsun’ Cultural Centre, 6:30pm10pm www.wildwingsfestival.com, $40

Master Illusionist: Vitaly Beckman A mindboggling, astonishing show Cowichan Performing Arts Centre, 2687 James St., Duncan 7:30pm 250 748-7529 $28/ eyeGO $5

A Christmas Story Opening Night Chemainus Theatre Festival Tickets start at $25 1800 565 7738 Runs to Dec 31

HUB Film Club Movie Night 4th Friday of every month! The HUB 2375 Koksilah Rd, Doors 6:30 - Film at 7PM

Scoops Natural Foods & Bosch Kitchen Centre DEMO 18&19 Victoria Symphony Pavel Kolesnikov DAY live demos, tastings, door prizes factory Dvorakís Symphony No.7 and Jordan 26 direct pricing! 1st 100 customers on11/18 Palís Double Concert Overture. 7:30pm, CPAC receive a free gift Whippletree Junction

$42/Student $5 250-748-752

Sunrise Winter Fair Childrens Crafts 19 Family Friendly. Activities, crafts, artisan vendors, snacks and tasty refreshments 10am-

Annual Craft Fair at Cowichan Bay Fire hall 9:00-3:00. Table rentals $15.00. Contact Dorothy 250 748-6999

3pm www.sunrisewaldorfschool.org

Masimba Marimba “Village Gathering” w/ guests dance, sing, enjoy, interactive, community HUB at Cowichan Station 7pm $12/ $20 for family Baskerville: A Sherlock Holmes Mystery A brilliant, farcical, inventive comedy Cowichan Performing Arts Centre, 2687 James St., Duncan 7:30pm 250 748-7529 $40/Seniors $38 Zimbabwean music public workshop 20 with Kurai Mubaiwa, Marimba, rhythms, singing. Rich experience North Cowichan, details upon registration 2-4pm Allan Brown 250-748-9842 $30

Sunday Jazz the Groovin’ Hard Band w/ Doug Vandine 2-5pm Crofton Hotel 1534 Joan Ave $15 Sacred Chant Circle experience the healing power of sound. 7-8:30pm, Rivendell Yurt, 5215 Bills Rd. Sadie 250-748-2089 By donation

Thermography non-invasive, radiation-free breast exam in Duncan held at Wu Wei Acupuncture & Acupressure clinic. For info 250-710-3581 Free Yin Yoga Class with Nadia. 6:00-7:30pm Harmony Yoga Centre Shawnigan Lake Community Craft Fair, Local vendors selling artisan crafts/goods 2804 Shawnigan Lake Rd, 10 am – 4 pm FREE Whippletree Junction Light Up. Various participating merchants Fortune Killer (Formally Isobel Trigger) 7:30pm Old Firehouse Wine Bar 40 Ingram St, Duncan 250 597 3473

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4th “Deck the Hall” Christmas Craft Market! Many talented artisans, & crafts people 11/26, 10 am - 5 pm 11/27, 10 am - 3 pm, Cowichan Exhibition Grounds 7380 Trans Canada Highway, Duncan

Cure Meat & Cheese Open House 27 sample products for holiday season.

Many new items.

1-4pm, Valley View Centre

Sunday Jazz Arrowsmith Big Band led by Dave Stewart 2-5pm Crofton Hotel 1534 Joan Ave $15 Reel Alternatives shows DHEEPAN, a tense and compelling snapshot of 28 immigrant life in France (Tamil, English and

French with English subtitles), 7 pm Cowichan Performing Arts Centre, 2687 James Street, Duncan

Taste of Burgundy Dinner w/ Gary 29 Faessler 6-9:30 pm Kilrenny Farm 1470 Cowichan Bay Rd, 250-743-9019 $70 OUT OF TOWN 19 Little Owl Kids Fair 10-5pm 3671 Uptown Blvd, (Uptown Mall) Victoria $3/Adults 25 -27 Out of Hand Artisan Fair Crystal Garden 713 Douglas St, Victoria www.outofhand.ca

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

Seasonal Fun at Unsworth Vineyards & Restaurant

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his time of year lends itself to cozying up by the fire and watching the leaves fall outside but don’t get too cozy as there are lots of great things happening at Unsworth Vineyards & Restaurnat to entice you out (and we have a fireplace).

Last month was the launch of our popular CSR (Community Supported Restaurant) Program.

This is our third season offering the program and it has been a great success for our restaurant as we head into the challenging winter months as well as an opportunity to get to know you a little better.

What is our CSR program? A membership costs $175 and this buys members five three course meals to be enjoyed anytime till May on Thursday and Friday evenings. A delicious, locally sourced, three-course set menu that changes bi-weekly will be emailed out to members. This is a fabulous opportunity to support our restaurant, ensure you make time for that special date night or just enjoy a really good deal on fabulous food and atmosphere.

You can sign up online (www. unsworthvineyards.com) or by calling Unsworth Restaurant 250-929-2292 ext 1.

In addition to our CSR program, we are also bringing back our popular Wine Education Series.

Chris Turyk, level eight wine ninja will share his expertise in our first series of winter courses.

Each discussion will include a three course dinner comprised of choices of small plates paired with wines to reflect the evening’s discussion. The cost is $60 per person. As there will be limited seating, reservations for the class must be made in advance by calling 250-9292292 ext 1 or by email (restaurant@ unsworthvineyards. com):

• Sunday, November 6: Wine education on wine education! Explore the different certifications, available courses and what they all mean with respect to the enjoyment of wine.

• Sunday November 13: Climate! Explore how the unique climate of different regions affects the expression of the wines produced.

We also have a few spots left for Christmas parties in the Restaurant. Treat your staff to an evening in one of our heritage house dining rooms for a three course celebration of all your hard work! This year, we are also booking more casual canapés and cocktail parties in the Tasting Room. We would love the opportunity to help make this year special for you and your friends. Please call or email the restaurant for details.

Our Tasting Room is open all season. We have finished bottling our Charme De L’Ile for 2016 and have it back on the shelves in the tasting room and your favourite private liquor stores. Stock up now before it is gone and to ensure you will be ready for the holiday season. We will also be releasing our popular 2014 Symphony on November

5. To celebrate the Symphony release, we will be having a Guy Fawkes Bonfire at the winery, a family-friendly event starting at 4PMwith mulled wine and pulled pork sandwiches on offer. As there are only 190 cases of 2014 Symphony, it is sure to sell out quickly.

Unsworth is also pleased to announce the roll-out of our seasonal gift baskets for both corporate and personal giving.

We are offering a variety of formats and prices which feature Unsworth Vineyards wine and local products to fit any budget.

Stop by the tasting room to see some sample baskets and to discuss your preferences.

Thank you for all of your support. We look forward to welcoming you this winter season.

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ANNUAL HOLIDAY

Shopping Party Thursday, November 3

9am - 6pm

Meet designer Darcie Zibin 4-6pm

Tasty Treats at the Duncan Garage Café

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10% off Eminence Organic Skin Care DOOR PRIZES!! GIVEAWAYS!!

REFRESHMENTS!! AND MUCH MORE!

NOVEMBER PROMOTION GET A NEROLI EYE SERUM FOR FREE WITH PURCHASE of 3 EMINENCE PRODUCTS! (RETAIL:$58+TAX)

L SEOU S CAP E

ESTHETICS Est. Since 2006

THE ORIGINAL HUNGARIAN ORGANIC SKINCARE LINE IN NORTH AMERICA

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

open on remembrance day NOVEMBER 11• 7am - 6pm Come on in and warm up with our nourishing fall selections of soups and stews.

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or Susan, the owner of the Duncan Garage Café, it all started in her high school biology class. When teaching about the way the planet naturally works, the teacher showed that organic farming and vegetarian eating are the most sustainable, healthy ways of living, both for the self and the planet.

So began a life devoted to these principles, which have led thus far to a wholesome, sustainable, ethically run, organically committed café and bakery.

The café’s mission is to let you eat incredibly delicious and affordable organic and vegetarian food.

We’re always looking to get better. All of our flours have always been organic, but recently we switched to unbleached flour which is grown in BC and milled for True Grain Bakery in Cowichan Bay. This reduces our carbon footprint and supports another local business. We make lots of fabulous things with this flour; today we’re going to tell you about two of them.

Our Cowichan Sourdough bread is a San Francisco style white bread. We use a 50-plus year old starter which we feed every day with organic flour and water, and mix with sea salt, GMO free yeast, a little organic lemon juice, more flour and our wonderful Cowichan water to make bread dough. This rests

overnight in our fridge before baking to make fluffy, chewy, perfectly crusted bread.

Our House Salad is always made with organic and/ or local greens. We prefer the taste and freshness of Cowichan Valley produce, so we buy locally when produce is available. Our house dressing is made with organic ingredients (yes, it’s available for sale if you want some for your salad at home) and we top the greens with grated beets, carrots, and cabbage, home-cooked chickpeas, toasted sunflower seeds, and (yes, locally grown) sprouts.

People come from far and wide for the Peanut Butter Brownies. We use New Zealand butter, all organic chocolate chips, sugar, peanut butter, and the aforementioned flour in this square, which gets our special peanut butter frosting on top.

Even though we use all organic flours, nuts, seeds, veggies, fruit, coffee, chocolate, sugar, oils, spices, and legumes, we try not to make our food too expensive, because we believe that tasty, healthy, organic, sustainable food should be for everyone.

We’re excited every day to prove that a fairly and ethically run business is possible, sustainable – and it makes everyone, customers and workers, happy.

Submitted by Jenny Bradford

house was warmly welcomed to the theatre by the Theatre Manager.

Hilda Fluck ( Karen Johnson -Diamond) and her husband Sam ( Brian Linds) were the centre of the family humour. They were rejoicing in the departure of their young adult children. They had plans to rekindle their own relationship with time and money to enjoy their future years together .

Hilda’s Yard Chemainus Theatre

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hemainus Theatre lights were sparkling as we arrived for our evening at Hilda’s Yard. A wander through the interesting gift shop with its amazing photographic displays

by Martin Kaspers gave inspiration for Christmas presents. We returned at a later date to make purchases.

Up in the restaurant the piano was playing and our table ready for our meal prior to the performance. After an aperitif, we enjoyed the delicious buffet with so many choices. The many salads preceded the main course, the pick for me being the roast lamb. The desserts were plentiful and the chocolate fountain was well worth a revisit! After coffee we were replete and ready to go down to the theatre auditorium.

What a delightful set for the 1956 play. It was ingeniously created by Ivan Brozic, congratulations Ivan! The Yard was ready for the family play to begin, but first the full

But all does not go to plan, their wayward son Gary returns in haste, over the garden fence. He is back home having lost his job and keen to avoid the debt collector from the bookies.

He also has plans to woo a new girlfriend, so he needs to live back home. This character is played with huge energy and enthusiasm by Giovanni Mocibob, with great humour and is very funny throughout the play.

The parents dry comments and despair are very familiar to our own family daily lives, 60 years later!

To add to their woes their feisty daughter Janey returns with suitcase, she has left her cruel and controlling husband.

He hit her, once, and will not let her work in a travel agents

where she admires the travel agent and wants to travel!

She is back to enjoy the sympathies of her family. The role is engagingly played by Ella Simon. She swings from indignati to tears at a great rate. Resigned to a full family life once again the Flucks settle down to dinner.

After a brief intermissiona drink and chat at the bar- the play continues at a faster pace. The lively debt collector, Beverly Waytowich, (Brad Austin) arrives, over the garden fence, persuing Gary for his debt. But Janey is side tracked and makes a play for Beverly’s attentions.

She succeeds. Meanwhile Gary’s bimbo girlfriend, Bobbi Jakes ( a wonderful character played by Emma Slipp) slinks into the family circle enjoying amorous attention from Gary. Gary decides to propose marriage

Eat, Drink and Support Local

to Bobbi but she refuses, she just wants a bit of fun!

Hilda and Sam give out sound advice and comments throughout the production, clearly ignored by the youngsters. But family harmony is restored and we reflect that this is “ just family life”, all the ups and downs of relationships eventually levelling out.

The play was skillfully directed by Mark Dumez with lighthearted humour throughout. It was a very enjoyable night at the theatre.

Show runs to November 5, by calling the Box Office at 1-800-565-7738, or online at chemainustheatre.ca.

UK grandmother Carol Badman loves spending time drawing Zentangles and playing golf.

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featuring our naturally farm raised meat and local produce. Every Sunday there will be vegetarian options and other goodies such as fresh baked bread, scones, serious coffee and teas. Stay tuned are we will feature other local vendors and some classes as well. Open every Sunday,11am - 3pm 5881 Genoa Bay Rd, Duncan.

Upcoming EVENTS Saturday, November 12

Moscow (Russian) Mushroom Dinners Saturday, November 19

Pine Mushroom Cooking Class (vegetarian)

For full details visit www.deerholme.com

BY RESERVATION ONLY

4830 Stelfox Rd, Duncan

For ReservationS 250 748 7450

Guy Fawkes Party & Symphony Release Join us for a fun autumn bonfire celebrating the end of harvest and the release of our 2014 Symphony, a big red wine made from Vancouver Island grown grapes. We’ll also have mulled wine, hot chocolate and pulled pork sandwiches on offer in addition to all of our available wines by the glass or bottle.

November 5, 5-7PM Unsworth Vineyards, 2915 Cameron Taggart Rd, Mill Bay

Sundays at Birds Eye Cove Farm are Tasty Come warm up this winter at The Barn and check out weekly farm gate specials

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Bosch Factory Direct Demo Weekend at Scoops If you have been dreaming of getting a Bosch Mixer or a Nutrimill Grain & Flour Mill, join us for 2 days of live demonstrations, tastings, door prizes and fantastic factory direct pricing! On Friday our first 100 customers will receive a free gift. On Saturday meet our factory reps between 10am – 4pm. Have a Bosch mixer already? Bring it in on Saturday, November 19th for a free tune up! Scoops will be offering 15% off groceries, bulk and grain. As well as hot Indian Vegetarian take-out. Scoops Natural Foods & Bosch Kitchen Centre Friday & Saturday November 18 & 19 10am to 5pm, Whippletree Junction unit #3 – 4715 Trans Canada Hwy Duncan 778 422 3310

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

The Tiffin – An Indian Lunch Box

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riginating at the time of the British Raj in India, the tiffin is a household staple in millions of Indian homes.

These stackable, stainless steel bowls are held together by a simple frame with a handle on top for carrying.

Each bowl filled with a different curry, rice dish, bread or pickles.

In Mumbai, hundreds of thousands of tiffins are filled by mums and housewives at home then picked up and delivered to workplaces every day. That’s pretty impressive in itself, but what’s more impressive? Each tiffin is returned to its original home each evening, ready to be washed and loaded up the next morning. The delivery system is run by ‘Dabbawalas’ who run such an efficient enterprise that it has been revered and studied

by corporate giants around the world.

This system has been in place for over 125 years in South Asia, but it is quickly gaining popularity in the western world. Some larger cities in Canada offer tiffin delivery for lunches at downtown offices where they return later in the day to pick up empty tiffins. Popular due to its ecofriendly design and use, the tiffin also symbolizes fresh cooked food, from home or a restaurant. It isn’t limited to Indian, or ethnic food.

It’s a perfect way to pack a soup, salad and bread without creating a mushy mess.

Here at Scoops Natural Foods, our tiffins remind me of my childhood, of school lunches, of friends gathering around to see what delicious curry, roti and rice my mum had lovingly packed for me. We have two, three and

four tier tiffins in stock and if we have Lentil Dahl on, you get a free large portion when you buy one. Also, bring it in for a refill and get another large portion for the price of a small.

Tiffins also make great gifts, fill them with nuts, seeds, dried fruit and candies as a gift of abundance to those you love.

Pam Stiles is the owner of Scoops Natural Foods at Whippletree Junction.

778-422-3310

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P

lease consider making a monetary donation or attending our fundraising event for a Syrian refugee family sponsored by a group from Glenora.The proceeds will go towards housing, clothing and transport for our Syrian refugee family: Louma, the mother, and her two daughters, age 2 and 14.

Syria

Fundraising Event for Syrian Refugee Family

They are presently living in Turkey where they arrived after making four harrowing attempts at trekking through the mountains from their homeland. We are hoping

they will be with us before Christmas.

The event promises to be an enjoyable, entertaining evening and a cultural learning opportunity. Guests include the Tzinquaw Dancers, Mbira Spirit, Glenora Farm Bell Choir and more.

The newly settled families as well as Louma’s extended family, are helping with the fundraiser by providing some authentic Syrian food and some traditional dishes.

Saturday, November 5, (6.30 pm silent auction begins, 7pm welcoming, entertainment and finger food) at the Quw’utsun Cultural Centre.

BEADS BEADS BEADS

Etc!

9752c Willow St

Chemainus

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!

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

Members of a women’s co-op in Guatemala sew coffee bags and receive fair trade wages for their work.

Photo Credit: Louise Sosa

FIESTA – An Ethical Trade Fair

I

n the market place, we vote with our dollar.

Unfortunately, many purchases reinforce an economic system that disempowers people in their ability to generate enough income to live healthy, productive lives. In a market that prioritizes profit over people and the planet, shortterm gain can contribute to long-term global challenges we face today – such as poverty, hunger, war and climate change.

The good news is, we have options!

Direct Ethical Trade reconnects us with small producers in the Global Village. It unites us through values of respect and dignity

in a win-win exchange.

Rather than paying the lowest price, direct trade is about paying a fair price so the artisans receive a living wage.

Direct trade means that the middle-man (vendor) often knows the people who made the product, how it was produced, and how people are faring in this community.

The annual FIESTA World Craft Bazaar brings together over 20 local and global vendors who work directly with the artisans and communities where the goods are made.

David Moore, one of this year’s vendors who works with the Widow’s Garden Project in Uganda says: “In some cases, the crafts which are sold do not even have access to markets

except for the intervention of well-meaning helpers and charitable organizations.

Fair trade can bring muchneeded income to producing families for food. business development, education and health; and the sale of the crafts in Canada enables us to keep assisting in various ways.”

Ethical purchasing is about

recognizing the role we play as consumers in creating a fair and sustainable world.

Come to FIESTA – and cast your vote for a better world for all! Saturday, November 12, 10 am to 4 pm.

Quw’utsun’ Cultural Centre, 200 Cowichan Way, Duncan. $2 at the door.

Submitted by Joy Emmanuel

We have you covered for cold and flu season...

Teas, herbal tinctures, immune support supplements, homeopathic remedies, lozenges, and organic Kleenex if you need it!

BIG selection of natural gifts, cosmetics, eco clothing, organic food and more!

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

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Robert Bateman

Wild Wings Gala with Artist Robert Bateman

R

obert Bateman will be the star of the evening at the Closing Gala for the 2016 WildWings Nature & Arts Festival and the Trumpeter Swan Society’s Swan Conference.

The world-renowned, and beloved Canadian Wildlife artist, has been featured in exhibits around the globe and now has a permanent exhibition in Victoria, at the Robert Bateman Centre.

He was awarded the Royal Canadian Geographical Society Gold Medal in 2013 in recognition of his commitment to preserving the Canadian landscape He is also an Officer of the Order of Canada as well as a Member of the Order of British Columbia. Millions have celebrated his realist style and he is possibly best known for his works portraying birds in flight, and repose, as well as many other species of wildlife.

Bateman will be the keynote speaker at the gala evening, which wraps up six weeks of nature-themed events in the Cowichan Valley. The event, to be held at the beautiful Quw’utsun’ Cultural &

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Conference Centre on the banks of the Cowichan River, will also include a Cowichan traditional foods buffet dinner, a performance by the Tzinquaw dancers, live jazz

by John Wade and Friends, silent and live auctions, and the Trumpeter Swan Society’s awards ceremony.

The Trumpeter Swan Society’s three-day Swan conference will bring swan enthusiasts from all over North America to share and learn about the latest research on trumpeter swans and other swan species. The theme of the conference is Swans and Agriculture, Working Together and includes two days of presentations, an evening public forum on waterfowl and agriculture issues and a day-long field trip to local farms dealing with waterfowl issues. All events are open for public registration.

The Swan Conference is hosted by the Somenos Marsh Wildlife Society, the Cowichan Valley Naturalists and the Trumpeter Swan Society as a part of the annual WildWings Festival.

The festival, now in it’s 8th year, provides many opportunities to experience

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

J b a b B s v a f c y 1

local nature and culture through nature oriented events including guided nature walks and birding events, events highlighting the Cowichan Peoples culture and traditions, wildlife art and much more. WildWings proceeds are shared equally between Somenos Marsh wildlife viewing infrastructure projects and future WildWings Festivals.

For Festival and Swan Conference event information visit: www.wildwingsfestival.com.

Submitted by Elizabeth Bailey

WILD WINGS Festival EVENT Highlights For detailed information on all events please visit www.wildwingsfestival.com

a knowledge of where, when and how to gather in a respectful and sustainable manner. Once the materials are prepared and incorporated into the basket , they provide a unique structure and sensation as each row and pattern of the basket grows.

It is a satisfying exploration of what can be done with some creativity, technique and patience. In this workshop hand dyed reed will be used to form the shape and structure of the basket. Bog iris leaves, cattail leaves, broom fronds, bulrush, as well as some roots and barks will be available for students to weave their own design.

November 6, Cost $90 (portion donated to Somenos Marsh Wildlife Society) Contact Maria Curtis to register 250-748-7468

Basket Weaving with Plants from Somenos Marsh In her 20 years of weaving experience, Maria has developed a close relationship with plants.

Harvesting the basket making materials requires

Style Your

WINDOWS

Birding the Bay with the Royal BC Museum Join Royal BC Museum biologists Darren Copley and Claudia Copley on a birding trip to Cowichan Bay. This event will feature spotting scopes for up-close viewing and a chance to see a trumpeter swan specimen from the Royal BC Museum’s collection! Bring binoculars if you have them. November 5, 10am - Noon By Donation

DUVET COVER SALE!

With Custom blinds, shades & curtains Shop local and save!

Coastal Waterbird Count The Cowichan Estuary Nature Centre participates in the Bird Studies Canada Coastal Waterbird Survey. Once each month, teams of volunteers spot, identify, and count waterbirds on a measured section of Cowichan Bay shoreline. Skilled experienced birders lead the count, but everyone is welcome. Bring binoculars and dress for the weather. Hecate Park, Cowichan Bay, 1pm-2pm FREE

250 924-5679 www.nikkidesigns.ca

OPEN HOUSE

1 - 4pm - November 27 Come sample products of the shop as you prepare for your holiday season.

Many new items.

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Ladies Night in Cowichan Bay Village

musicians, special treats and in-store deals. Remember to keep your eyes peeled for the hiding Starfish in each store... find them all for a chance to win a huge gift basket put together by local merchants.

Y

es, it’s happening again!

Everyone is asking and excitement is high for this years 6th annual Ladies Night in Cowichan Bay. Gather your friends for the best in local shopping while enjoying wine tastings, live

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Plus, new for this year we’ve added a special GRAND PRIZE! Enter to win a one night stay at Cowichan Bay’s Dream Weaver Bed & Breakfast plus dinner at The Masthead Restaurant. What an amazing night that would be for our lucky winner. Can’t wait! For more information please visit the Cowichan Bay Village Facebook page.

Ladies Night, November 17, 5-9pm.

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

drink your coffee by.

“We chose this location because the funky building and location seemed perfectly suited for us. Our funky floors a constant source of comment.

Opening early for breakfast the cafe gathers a great morning coffee crowd.

“They are highly entertaining and Ladies Night Anniversary up the energy Celebration for Get Phil’d Up light in the whole cafe.

Each specialty udy and Phil Ratzlaff invite cup is served just how each you to celebrate their 1 of our customers like.” Judy year anniversary at Ladies smiles. Classic breakfasts Night in Cowichan Bay. at Get Phil’d are extremely They have accomplished a popular as well as their Nasi lot in their year at the Bay Goreng and classic grilled gaining a loyal clientele, cheese sandwich. Fish tacos from all over the Valley are our seasonal best sellers coming in for Phil’s delicious in warmer weather and new made from scratch dishes. A hearty soups have been added family owned business, their to the menu for the winter daughter has just come on months. Eat in or take home. board to be part of the team.

Open late for Ladies Night, For those who haven’t yet they will be serving coffees visited - what are you waiting and some sweet treats to grab for? Phil and Jude have while you shop. Come on in transformed an old coffee out of the cold and get Phil’d shop into a bright, warm and Up! 1725 Cowichan Bay Rd, cozy, cafe customized with Cowichan Bay waterfront. handmade wooden furniture and a warm pellet stove in the Image above Phil, Judy sitting area to eat your soup or

J

Mugs for Dad! • Plates • Bowls •Vases • Vessels • Honey Pots • Tea Pots • Urns • Shakers & more!

The Mud Room Clayworks Potter Colleen Underwood 250 710 7329 1725 Cowichan Bay Road

Located between True Grain Bread and Get Phil’d Up in Cow Bay

T EAR ge H e a th ill ed inn Bay V t a c a Lo wich o of C

Open Weekdays 7:30am-6pm Weekends 8am - 6pm Closed TUESDAYS

Open Late on Ladies Night and join us to CELEBRATE our

1 year

anniversary!

•ALL DAY BREAKFAST •HEARTY HOT SOUPS •Hot Drinks •Nasi Goreng •Jamaican Patties

Delicious food made fresh right HERE!

• Restaurant • Deli • CAFÉ • Grocery • 1751 Cowichan Bay Road 250 748 0020 croweandappel.ca Selling and serving fresh and sustainable local seafood, local free-range meats, organic produce, and organic imported oils, vinegars, herbs, and spices, in our deli and on our menu. Serving local wine, cider, and beer, and offering gluten-free, vegetarian, and vegan options.

Visit us on Ladies Night!

Hours 10:00am - 5:30pm daily lunch from 11:30am daily dinner from 5:00pm thurs/fri/sat

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

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Combat the cold and Flu season with

Bright Angel Suspension bridge. Photo By Gord Iverson

Getting To Know The Koksilah!

H

ave you swam the marble canyons of the upper Koksilah? Hiked through the ancient firs in the mountains of West Shawnigan? Maybe you visited the Kinsol Trestle?

Bright Angel Park?

Important, grand, beautiful; the Koksilah Watershed provides for wildlife, First Nations culture, agriculture, community.

Citrus soother is a delicious tasting hot lemon, honey and ginger drink mix powder. fortified with Therapeutic herbs & plant extract, vitamins and minerals, offers warming relief of cold and flu symptoms.

Helps shorten the duration and severity of colds and flus. supports the body when cold and chilåled. assists in alkalizing the body, contains minerals, lemon and herbs.

Come on in and see us at Lynn’s Vitamin Gallery and our knowledgeable staff would be happy to assist you.

support as we kick-off our fundraising campaign with a fun Beer & Burger at the Cowichan Bay Pub, November 13th 530-830pm. Volunteers will be on hand with a map of the watershed to collect your observations, memories, and concerns about the Koksilah, and to start signing people up to help with the amazing Koksilah River Relay, planned for next year.

More info: event@ Local volunteers are cowichanstation.org or fundraising to realize an www.cowichanstation.org/theecosystem-based study of the Koksilah Watershed. The study koksilah-river/ will inform citizens about the ecological priorities Kinsol Trestle - Photo by Natasha Ayers in our environment, and the pressures on it, so we can work collaboratively towards a sustainable future.

Join us with your

Sarah Sinray, MSc., RCC Professional, down-to-earth, evidence-based counselling

Lynn’s

VITAMIN GALLERY

HEALTH FOOD STORE Village Green Mall, 4-180 Central Avenue, Duncan

250 748 4421 www.lynnsvitamingallery.com

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www.enlivencounselling.com | 250-668-4847

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

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c b C h a t e r “ a o S G

I S s h a D

advocate all her life, the diagnosis led her to delve deeper into the alchemy of food and how it affects our bodies. As a passionate surfer, yogi, and nature lover she needed easy digesting low-glycemic snacks to fuel her active lifestyle and discovered a gap in the market.

Hence hOMe Grown Living Foods was born.

hOMe Grown Living Foods – Keep the Vibe Alive!

The Cow-op.ca online farmers’ market initiative, works closely with local farmers to provide the community with easy access to weekly supplies of fresh and home grown products, with the ultimate goal of promoting local food security and small-scale agricultural viability.

N

ot many people can say they have successfully built their company by putting lifestyle before profit. However Shani Cranston and Willy McBride, of hOMe Grown Living Foods, are an example of a local business that has managed to balance their entrepreneurial spirits with a deep reverence for Mother Nature.

“Nourishing people is our passion, and living a balanced life is one of our core values,” explains Shani, Chief Formulator for hOMe Grown.

Specializing in sprouted, raw, vegan, gluten and grain -free, hybrid snacks, free of any refined sugars, all their products are handmade in small batches. These include items like RAWgles, CHOCOlivies, and Sprouted Surf Snax featuring ingredients such as sprouted buckwheat groats, local fruit & vegetables and wildcrafted local seaweed. “Our nuts and seeds are soaked to release digestive inhibitors, making multiple times more nutrients bio available to your body,” explains Shani.

“Dehydration at low temperatures completes our processing to maximize flavour, enzymes and life force.” This is really Slow Food, taking up to 48 hours from formulation through to packaging.

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

Visit us at 3-5380 Trans Canada Hwy, Duncan

Hours 7:30-6pm Weekdays, 9-5pm Sat and 11-3pm Sunday www.glowjuicery.ca

Shani is constantly experimenting with new formulations and ingredients. Enjoying what she does while maintaining her healthy and active lifestyle is a big part of her mission. As long as she is inspired, she will keep going! “Time is our most precious commodity, and we have to make the most of it,” Shani explains.

It is truly impressive how much Shani is invested in her work. She started producing her delicious and healthy snacks over eight years ago after being diagnosed with Type 1 Diabetes in her early 30’s. A health

Shani and Willy’s beautiful home in Lake Cowichan is also the site of their fully certified manufacturing facility; production takes place in two transformed shipping containers full of state of the art equipment including commercial Blixers, Dehydrators, a Formatic machine, and a walk-in cooler courtesy of Willy’s

HOLIDAY EVENTS In VICTORIA Ursa Minor - 1508 Haultain Ave November 12 10-6pm Little Owl Kids Fair - 3671 Uptown Blvd November 19 10-5pm Craft Cartel - 195 Bay St November 25 & 26 5 -9pm

hoodies I skirts I tops I dresses accessories I childrens & more

AVAILABLE LOCALLY AT Spinning Ninny 306 Duncan St, Duncan

handyman skills. ‘Piece by piece’ has always been the way at hOMe Grown and has allowed for slow growth within their own means.

With only 1 full time employee, hOMe Grown still manages to produce, package, and ship products all over North America.

Not only can hOMe Grown’s products be found in retail stores coast to coast, they can be ordered direct online through their website.

Shani and Willy, proud members of the Cow-op, are big advocates

of promoting local growers and source as many of the ingredients from local farmers as possible for their Farm 2 Shelf products. Order hOMe Grown Living’s snacks every week from the Cow-op along with all your other local produce needs by visiting www.cow-op.ca.

When not working to promote local food and farming, Heather spends her time playing with her family on Maple Mountain.

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A Christmas Fair Over 45 Vendors! Start your Shopping Early, Wants & Needs - Gifts for Yourself & Others. Don’t forget your re-useable bag First 25 (Adult 18+) Guests receive a special offer from vendors plus draws prizes all day and one lucky winner will win a Sony IPod IPhone Docking Speaker System Valued at $100 November 5, 10am -4pmTWO HALLS - Find us in Cobble Hill Hall and the Youth Hall, 3550 Watson Rd

Visions Winter Sale

Open Weekdays 7AM - 4PM Weekends 8AM - 4PM All profits made at Cedrick’s Coffee House in Crofton will be used to support education, healthcare, medical services and clean drinking water for thousands of children facing challenging conditions through the Kids International Development Society

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Meet painters, jewellery designers, silversmiths, photographers, potters, stained glass artist and glass and tile painter all together in one great show.

This is the perfect show to choose art for yourself or for those special people on your gift list. Taking part are Laurel Hibbert, Nathalie Mansey, Neil Fatin, Carolyn McDonald, Joanne Kimm,

Lorraine Hawe, Susan Whyte, Stephanie, Taylor, Rosemary Danaher, Mark Davis, Charlotte Haggart, Bev Robertson, Donna Birtwistle, Roger Jackson, Sue Coleman, Michele Heath and Terry Harrison. Music by Rogue Wave. November 12 and 13, 10AM-4PM. Cobble Hill Hall 3550 Watson Ave.

Deck The Hall Christmas Market The Cowichan Exhibition is hosting their 4th “Deck the Hall” Christmas Craft Market! Many talented artisans, & crafts people will be showing a wide variety of products just in time for the Christmas season. There will be lots of parking, customer appreciation draws and a concession! This event is free to the public! Start your season at the “Deck the Hall” Christmas Crafts Fair!

November 26, 10 am - 5 pm Sunday, November 27, 10 am - 3 pm Cowichan Exhibition Grounds, 7380 Trans Canada Highway, Duncan

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

W

t o C fi c s

B r w fi

La Petite Auction House Auction Sunday NOVEMBER 13 & 27 Early viewings Wed-Fri 11am- 5pm Plus viewings on Sat pre auction 1-5pm SAME DAY viewing 10am-1pm To consign email dawngeddie@gmail.com

9686 Chemainus Rd, 250-701-2902 HOLIDAY BAKING

by Chef Ashley Lee

Brad Allen Creates Beauty with Reclaimed Metal

W

here most of us would likely struggle to see the artistic potential in a hunk of steel.

Cowichan artisan Brad Allen, fires up his welding torch and creates beauty from cold, hard steel.

Brad’s creations, made from reclaimed metal, reflect his wide ranging imagination and finely honed artistic skill.

Brad’s metal art will be on display at Imagine That Artisans’ Designs in down town Duncan from October 22 to November 18.

A former millwright and selftaught artist, Brad has been making and selling metal art for thirty years. He started way back with candle stick holders which he sold at the Hornby Island market.

THE SECOND HANGER BOUTIQUE CONSIGNMENT

Accepting Winter items by appointment.

Online appointments available on Calendly.

MEGA MONDAYS

Open 9-1pm 25-75% off Discounts available Mondays between 9-1 only!

Looking for the following items: Boots, Leggings, Dresses, Tunics, Sweaters, Workout Gear, Outerwear, Handbags and Shoes

3541 COBBLE HILL ROAD In the heart of Cobble Hill

250 743-7802

thesecondhanger@shaw.ca

Over the years, Brad’s subject matter and skill have expanded to include distinctive ‘Hopi Hands’ representing life, creativity, and healing; ‘Kokopelli,’ a traditional Hopi hunch back figure playing a flute; and Japanese Kanji, compact and elegant written symbols representing such strong emotions as love, courage, and hope.

These days, however, Brad is concentrating his artistic efforts on the West Coast

• BAKED GOODS • SAVOURY BITES • CANAPÉS • CUSTOM PLATTERS Some dates still available for Christmas parties!

USING ONLY THE FINEST LOCALLY SOURCED INGREDIENTS, WHENEVER POSSIBLE. BAKING & COOKING STRESS ELIMINATED WITH A QUICK CALL! www.justaddbutter.ca I Just add Butter ashleylorilee@gmail.com I phone 250-327-4452

trees of British Columbia.

He describes his compositions as ‘generational and family oriented.’ He illustrates this by placing the trees in particular groupings and settings, thereby evoking feelings of love, joy, comfort, and spiritual attachment.

Brad’s work is both unique and endearing.

Each tree is rich in texture.

The colour palette ranges from earth tones to deep cobalt blue, which he creates

by varying the heat of the oxygen and propane cutting torch. Each piece is finally treated with a clear sealant for weather proofing and to retain the natural beauty of the metal.

Be sure to catch the display!

Veronica Scott is a mosaic artist and freelance writer.

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

Experience the Beauty and Spirit of the Advent Season: Sunrise Winter Fair

T

he Advent Season is upon us and with it comes a darkening of the days, the smell of frosted pine, and the feeling of completing another year.

To celebrate we invite you to join us at Sunrise Waldorf School for our Annual Winter Fair. The Fair is designed to carry our young ones into the Christmas season with a reverence for nature and an inspiration to create beautiful gifts and decorations for the home.

There are magical settings

in each of the classrooms to foster the imagination and to bring the family together. Some of our community favourites are Wreath making, Candle Dipping and the Kindercraft room. For the little ones there are the quiet and magical atmospheres of the Enchanted Garden, Blow the Boat, and the ever popular Cookie Cave.

Waldorf Schools across North America will be hosting events just like this one as a way to mark the Advent season, and to enliven the Christmas season with practical arts,

music, delicious food offerings and wholesome family fun.

The Fair also boasts a large vendor’s hall with local artisans selling their handcrafted and much loved items. Community members such as Glenora Farm and the SOL Centre

will be there as well as many others. Our parents, teachers and students are getting ready to welcome you to our campus and we hope to see you and your families there.

All are welcome. Saturday, November 19, 10am-3pm

www.sunrisewaldorfschool.org

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R

olfing Structural Integration (Rolfing SI) is a system of bodywork, which works directly on the fascia to systematically unwind the strain patterns held in the fascia, with the goal of bringing the fascia network back into balance.

Pathways of Connection Hellerwork & Somatic Counselling • Freedom from Chronic Pain & Injury • Expanded Energy Vitality and Aliveness • Creating New Connections & Pathways Embodying Heart Mind and Spirit

Melissa Brown www.pathwaysofconnection.com I 250-661-1687

Often considered a deep-tissue approach, Rolfing SI actually works with all the layers of the Rolfing With Brett Holland body to ease strain patterns in the entire of Island Rolfing system. Research get to be a part of. My aim is has demonstrated that Rolfing to unwind the trauma, strain or SI creates more efficient injury that is held in a person’s muscle use, allows the body to body. When the trauma, strain conserve energy, and creates or injury is released from the more economical and refined tissue, what remains is a basic patterns of movement. sense of ease and comfort.”

While Rolfing SI is a very direct hands on practice, it can also be very subtle at times as not all traumas respond to the same approach.

(New Service) Jan Stock - Intuitive Massage Therapist

•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

Call or Email

First appointment free!

David Yaeger

Certified Emotion Code Practitioner 250-597-3686 davidyaeger650@gmail.com

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Brett Holland is a Certified Rolfer™. He received his training at the Rolf Institute in Boulder, Colorado.” I chose to train in the art of Rolfing SI as I appreciate the practical and direct, unique, and holistic approach that Rolfing SI offers to help people resolve pain and correct imbalance in their body. My goal is very simple.

I want to see my clients feel more empowered and be able to participate more fully in whatever it is that brings them joy and happiness.

Every person has their own unique way of organizing their body structure. There is no one method for working with a particular issue as no issue is exactly the same for every person. I find practicing this modality to be an incredibly rich and rewarding experience because of the changes that I

Professional athletes, dancers, children, business professionals, and people from all walks of life have benefited from Rolfing Structural Integration.

Some of the benefits of Rolfing Structural Integration include: • Relief from chronic pain and injuries • Reduced stress and tension • Repair of scar tissue • Improved postural alignment • Greater body awareness and integration • Increased flexibility and coordination • Increased overall energy and stamina • Enhanced athletic performance • Increased resilience and vitality In real bodies, muscles hardly ever transmit their full force directly via tendons into the skeleton but rather a large

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

in the more superficial fascia layers nearer the skin and as the work continues balance is established in the deep fascia layers nearer the bone and throughout the whole fascial web.

portion of their contractile or tensional forces is distributed onto the sheets, and lines of fascia within the fascia network. These sheets and lines of fascia connection transmit these forces to synergistic as well as antagonistic muscles.

Thereby they stiffen not only the respective joint, but may even affect regions several joints further away. It is the transmission of tension through the complex fascia network that then converts into the final body movement.

How well your body can perform and function depends not only on the contraction of your muscle fibers but also to a large degree depends on how well the health, strength and elastic recoil properties of your fascia network supports these movements.

When the fascia restrictions of the body are rebalanced and integrated this naturally results in increased resilience and flexibility, better balance, improved physical abilities, and greater health. The side effect of this is often resolution of the compensation patterns, local injury and pain.

The process of balancing and reorganizing the fascia typically occurs over ten sessions (known as the TenSeries). In the Ten Series, balance is established firstly

It is not necessary to complete the Ten-Series in order to benefit from Rolfing although it will take the work to a deeper level. Rolfing sessions are individually structured around the available time and financial constraints of the client in order to maximize the benefit of the work.

The fascia of the body tells a story of a person’s life, all events are reflected in the fascia including physical and emotional trauma. When there is an adhesion in the fascia it is often a sign that the communication in the body has been compromised to some degree. To return the fascia back to a healthy condition and function we need to restore this communication in the fascia network of the body.

In addition, it has been shown that Fascia has the capacity to actively contract to some degree and that it is densely innervated with many sensory nerve endings. In fact Fascia is actually one of our richest sensory organs and is the most important organ for proprioception and for our feeling of embodiment.

Rolfing SI sessions are generally 80 minutes. The beginning of each session involves observing the body both still and in motion to assess what areas need to be addressed and how to approach the work of that session.

Sessions include both table work and seated work. Sessions primarily consists of direct hands on pressure to unwind and balance the various layers of fascia throughout the body.

ISLAND ROLFING REALIGN YOUR BODY

• better balance • increase flexibility • improve posture • re alignment • eliminate chronic pain and more NOVEMBER SPECIAL 50 % OFF FIRST SINGLE SESSION FOR NEW CLIENTS

BRETT HOLLAND I 250.920.8818

REFLEXOLOGY & CHI WELLNESS

Monday Tuesday Thursday Friday 1453 Algonkin Rd, The Properties at Maple Bay

BY TERRI

Every Wednesday

(Starting November 2)

331 Julian St

(Natasha’s Temple)

Downtown Duncan

“Gift of Health for Christmas” Gift Certificates available

$50 per session or 3x1 hour for $120

www.terriswellness.com I Call Terri 250-701-8962

Cost is $110 per session plus GST. www.islandrolfing.com.

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decorated with impressions from nature including ferns, flowers and leaves.

Cathi Jefferson 5656 Riverbottom Rd Duncan 11am - 4pm 250 737-1463 cathijefferson.com

T

he hallmark of Cathi Jefferson’s exquisite pottery is her deep attachment and love of the great outdoors.

From her light-filled studio on the banks of the Cowichan River, Cathi looks onto trees, ferns, shrubs, and woodland flowers. Her work is inspired by this natural West-coast setting and a strong desire to stay connected with nature.

An award winning potter, Cathi has been creating both finely crafted functional and decorative stoneware for more than forty years. The shelves of her studio are filled with a gorgeous, selection of vases, bowls, urns, platters, dishes, mugs and cups of all kinds. Many of her pieces are

Heartwood Studio

Raindrop Vase Cathi Jefferson

“I strive to make the form of each piece interesting and strong, capable of functioning so well that it will be enjoyed and used often because it elevates the ordinary to something special,” she says of her functional pottery. “It’s important to have handmade items in our lives to help us remain connected to the natural world and to each other. Nature connects us to what’s really important.”

What makes Cathi’s work unique is the salt firing technique she uses to finish her stoneware. The salt vaporizes at a high temperature in the kiln and interacts with the clay to create a glaze. This process creates warm, earth tones and textures.

Japanese historical pottery is a strong influence in Cathi’s work. “The simple, strong forms carry a sense of history and imperfection that reflect the importance of using wellcrafted handmade objects. A native of British Columbia, Cathi’s early inspiration came from teacher Herman Venema (also from British Columbia), lots of personal study and several trips to Japan.

Cathi is a founding member of

Cathi Jefferson - Creating Stoneware With a Keen Eye to the Natural World Cowichan Artisans.

Cowichan Artisans include: Karen Trickett - (Custom Furniture Marquetry and Automotive Woodwork); Morgan Saddington (Silver Jewellery Designer); Jennifer Lawson (Painter); John Lore ( Salvaged Western Big Leaf Maple); Veronica Scott (Glass Mosaic Artist); Ken Broadland (Functional Woodturning and Woodwork);Cathi Jefferson

(Ceramic Artist/Salt-Fired Stoneware); Cheryl Painter (Acrylic Painter); Jo Ludwig (Glass Vessels, Steampunk/ Folk-Art Sculpture); Peggy Brackett (Glass Jewellery); Mary Fox (Ceramic Artist).

The group will be holding a studio tour November 5th and 6th. For more information: www.cowichanartisans.com.

250-737-1463

Ken Broadland Woodturning

Specializing in salad bowls & servers made from local woods

Visit us during the Cowichan Artisans Studio Tour November 5 & 6

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5846 Curry Rd, Duncan (off Gibbins) 250-746-5480

www.heartwoodstudio.ca

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

Cowichan Artisans Open Studio Tour The Cowichan Artisans invite you to attend our fall “Open Studio Tour”. On the first weekend of November you’re invited to get an inside look at the studios and galleries of 11 professional local artisans.

Free of charge, Saturday and Sunday November 5 & 6 from 11am to 5pm. For map and locations www.cowichanartisans.com

Mary Fox Studio Sale The annual eagerly anticipated studio sale of Canada’s most highly respected ceramic artists,

Mary Fox, is just around the corner. There are many new works to enjoy and a huge array of pieces to choose from.

The sale opens at 11 am and there is always a line up. There is definitely something for everyone at this show, from her ever-popular functional ware like coffee mugs and casseroles to the one-of-a-kind decorative vessels that she is famous for. And.... everything is 25% off for the sale weekend plus her more heavily discounted clearance pieces... scores for sure! Nov 5 & 6 11am -5pm. 321 3 Ave, Ladysmith www.maryfoxpottery.ca

NEW Ocean Botanical Series

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FACIALS, PEDICURES, MANICURES, WAXING, TINTING ETC.

Chalice mounted on rock Mary Fox

20% OFF SEA FLORA HYDRATING MASQUES in NOVEMBER Contours Aesthetics 3515 Cobble Hill Rd • 250-715-7935

www.contoursaesthetics.com

“Fall Into Flowers” extended to end of November

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Tickets are $20 available at the Providence Farm General Store and main office, and online at www.providence.bc.ca

Dixie for RASTA Fundraiser We are thrilled to have the support of The Free Radical Dixies. Their music is full of piano, bass, drums, trumpet, clarinet, baritone sax and banjo, classified as dixieland style of music. With winter fast approaching, the many new animals in our care are in need of funds and community support more than ever.

November 3, Doors 6:30pm, Chemainus United Church, 9814 Willow St. By donation. www.rastarescue.org

Sweet Alibi Sweet Alibi are bringing their sweet and soulful sound of contemporary folk music to the Providence Farm Chapel on Nov.11.

This award winning trio hail from Winnipeg and have developed a loyal following in the Valley over the past few years. This will be a double bill with Jadea Kelly. Doors at 7PM, show at 7:30PM.

Sunday Jazz Gleefully,taking swing, blues, Latin and ballad and subtly infusing pop, indie rock and other unexpected styles and elements, she as Tom Harrison, music critic for the Vancouver Province, said, is “redefining jazz.” Playing on her eclectic tastes and broad musical knowledge, Superstein takes listeners on a musical trip that starts in Tin Pan Alley and twists its way to today. Andrea Superstein is a Jazz singer, who is redefining what Jazz means.

November 13, 2-5pm Crofton Hotel 1534 Joan Ave $15 www.andreasuperstein.com

Pornography Addiction in Children OVER 18 - The Question Is Not Enough” documentary exploring youth pornography addiction. Follow the true story of Joseph, a 13 yr. old

boy who became addicted to pornography at the age of nine while playing on his computer in his family’s living room.

The film interviews experts from around the world as well as people who are active in the adult film industry and aims to equip parents with the knowledge and resources to help them protect their children from pornography exposure and addiction.

A must see for parents!

November 14, VIU Lecture Hall, Cowichan campus 7 PM Admission by donation.

drawstring; hence an Inkle loom is one on which these have been made for centuries.

This Inkle weaving class is for beginners or those looking to refresh old skills. Come with a loom, or purchase one from Providence Farm Woodwork ($65), and learn how to tie heddles for it, how to warp it, and how to weave a narrow, warp-faced band. A colourful variegated cotton will be supplied so the woven patterns will appear by chance. In addition to weaving a flat band, we’ll also experiment with weaving a tube. Cost is $90 (plus loom purchase, if needed) and lunch will be provided.

Nov 13, from 10:00-4:00 at Providence Farm. Phone 250-746-4204 to register.

Sustainable Wellness: 5 Day Retreat

Inkle Weaving Workshop Inkle is an Old English word for a linen band or

Spend your Remembrance Day long weekend to detoxify your life at O.U.R Ecovillage.

This 5-day retreat includes digital detox, herbal detox, total silence practice, woodfire sauna session, yoga, workshop on listening from the plant beings, access to deep massage therapy, cranial sacral therapy, foot detox session, sacred pipe ceremony and a “Systemic JOIN US FOR

LUNCH + DINNER

OPEN Tuesday to Saturday

look for our daily specials on 40 Ingram Street

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www.theoldfirehouse.ca

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

Downtown Duncan

(250) 597-3473

F K r f o m H W m t w 7 A D A

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Constellation” session with international facilitator Jan Hull. Program cost: $420 plus accommodation options.

November 9-13 Registration www.ourecovillage.org

Bring your own wool and needles. Hint: Beginners should use needles no smaller than 4mm with appropriate wool. Every Wednesday and Friday at 10am throughout November with Donna Huston. Sol Centre, 5380 Trans Canada Highway, Duncan Free

available. Space is limited for the retreat so advance registration is required.

Introductory evening Duncan United Church, November 25 (by donation). Two day retreat November 26 & 27 Providence Farm ($140 per person). To register contact info@transitioncowichan.org

Baskerville Comedy From the inventive mind of Ken Ludwig, Baskerville is reinvented as a brilliant and farcical comedy adaptation of Sir Arthur Conan Doyle’s most notorious case! Sherlock Holmes and his side-kick Dr. Watson, brave the desolate moors of Devon to solve this spine-tingling and zany whodunit. November 19, 7:30pm Cowichan Performing Arts Centre, 2687 James St., Duncan 250 748-7529 Adults: $40/ Seniors $38

Learn To Knit Socks 101: Learn to knit socks for free at the new Waldorf Store (next to The Community Farm Store).

Open to adults of all ages.

Reconnecting to Life Retreat Transition Cowichan is bringing Maggie Zeigler and Jackie Larkin, educators and activists trained by eco-philosopher Joanna Macy and who’ve been facilitating Macy’s The Work that Reconnects for 15 years, to the Cowichan Valley. Together, through a wide range of ideas and experiential processes, we’ll engage heart, mind and spirit in the renewing our connection to ourselves, our community and all life on earth. We’ll be supported to experience our feelings about our planetary crisis and deepen our understanding about our connection to all life, as we find courage and resilience to support ourselves through challenging times.

Some partial bursaries are

50% discount on the first month of training.

Classes every Wednesday beginning in November

Join Brett Holland for classes at the Sol Centre Duncan

Ph: 250 920 8818

WWW.GOLDENSHIELDQIGONG.CA

Breast Exams

by Thermography For all women, who are seeking an alternative to taking a Mammogram.

Thermography is a noninvasive, radiation-free breast exam. Exam will take place at #103-44 Queens Road, Duncan on November 26 all weekend. Please call to make an appointment 250-7103581. For more information on Thermography, visit www.thermographyvancouver island.com

Fortune Killers Release Party Victoria’s, ‘Fortune Killer’ (Formerly Isobel Trigger) Is a band with a dynamic mix of pop and catchy rock hooks; which ignite the minds of all looking for an escape from .m.

- 4 p ys . .m a 10 a th D o B

Music by Rogue Wave Duo

the mundane. They Embark on a journey supporting their new single, “Fool’s Gold” (Single and Video drops November 4th) Saturday, November 26 The Old Firehouse Wine & Cocktail Bar Single release party.

FREE 19+ 250 597-3473 for reservations

Reel Alternatives Dheepan Dheepan: A Cannes winner, directed by Jacques Audiard, tells Dheepan’s journey from the Sri Lankan conflict zone to the outskirts of Paris where he ultimately survives to find hope and wholeness. In Tamil, English, French with subtitles. Monday, November 28, 7 pm Cowichan Performing Arts Centre, 2687 James Street, Duncan. Tickets $12, Students with card $5 Rows A-C, All proceeds benefit Cowichan Valley Hospice services in the entire Cowichan communities.

ARTISTS

Art , and Music F all und ood e roo r one f!

Winter Show & Sale

Saturday, Nov 12 & Sunday, Nov 1 3

in the historic Cobble Hill Hall in the heart of Cobble Hill.

visionsarttour.ca

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Small Town. Big Cozy.

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s the days get shorter and the skies turn greyer, we are naturally drawn to finding warmth and comfort from things other than the sun, because as we pretty well know, there will be a limited supply of that vitamin D source for a few months.

So, what makes us feel cozy

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and where can we find those things? Downtown Duncan, that’s where.

There’s nothing like a hot cup of soup on a cold day to bring comfort and make you feel cozy. We are lucky to have many great restaurants and café’s in Downtown

Duncan that offer an amazing variety of homemade soups each and every day.

From the vegetarian chili at Island Bagel to the delicious dahl from the Royal Dar, it’s not hard to find a soup to suit your taste. Here’s a few of the downtown eateries that offer a delicious soup (or two) every day of the week: Station Street Café, Cherries, Café la Vie, Power Lunch, Duncan Garage Café & Bakery and don’t forget about

The Tin Cup

Pho Vuong for their authentic Vietnamese Pho or Sai Thai for their Thai versions of Pho

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

a t F y s t o

B f f g o t M o a S g k b o N i k w a

Wishes

and WonTon soup. Many of these restaurants update their Facebook pages regularly, so you can check out the daily specials before you even leave the comfort of your home or office.

Browse through our wonderful fashion shops and boutiques for a unique selection of hats, gloves, and an amazing variety of scarves to keep you snug this winter. On Jubilee Street, Magnolia carries all sorts of warm tights and leggings and, while you’re there, visit Something Celtic to see the gorgeous Aran sweaters and knitwear in an assortment of beautiful colours. Speaking of knitwear, Ingrid’s Yarn & Needlework shop is the place in town for those who like to knit or crochet their own cozy winter apparel. Ingrid carries a variety of patterns and a

large selection of natural and blended fibres from around the world. For the practical side of cozy clothing, don’t overlook Bucky’s for a great selection of warm fleeces and technical clothing that can stand up to our wet and windy winter weather.

If it’s your feet looking for that homey feeling, Cardino’s carries Glerups and Garneau slippers and over at Soul Comfort at 190 Fourth St. they have several styles of sheepskin slippers guaranteed to keep your tootsies toasty. Cozy bedding?

Soul Comfort, Resthouse and Pots & Paraphernalia can tuck you in nicely for the cold nights ahead. Candlelight?

Wishes has a great selection of candles: beeswax, vegesoy, colourful tapers and more to help light up your life.

This winter, find your comfort in our very own cozy Downtown Duncan.

DOWNTOWN DUNCAN EVENTS November 6 11:00am – 3:00pm Sunday Sidewalk Celebration November 11 11:00am The Royal Canadian Legion Branch #53 Remembrance Day Ceremony At Charles Hoey Park November 25 5:30 – 8:30pm Christmas Kick-Off

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f you are a Canadian…you are used to having seasons that change, sometimes quite drastically. After the fun and heat of summer many of my friends heave a sigh of relief… dawn their sweaters and light their wood stoves…it’s a pleasure in many ways. At Pots

& Paraphernalia we are all about comfort and cozy and home. Falling into a featherbed with soft down duvets and pillows and luxurious linens feels good for the soul any time of the year. Home should be about respite, which might mean a stew for dinner cooked

in a beautiful cast iron pot, a throw blanket for watching TV, or a hot cup of tea in a beautiful mug… the small pleasures available to us every day.

We sell a floor mat called a ‘Wellness Mat’. There is always Pots & Paraphernalia…All one on the floor to stand on and it is About Comfort, Cozy, And Home amazing how many people step on it and to stock up on their favourites… sigh…they just want to linger awhile. It takes the stress off your chocolate coated pretzels, toffees, drinking chocolate (like drinking feet and legs and just feels good. a melted chocolate bar) savoury tapenade, mustards, vinegars and And of course the holiday season oils and many, many varieties of is just around the bend, as time shortbread. We sample hundreds continues to race by. At Pots & of food items…some customers Paraphernalia, we strive to make say “you don’t have to go for Christmas a real extravaganza of celebration and abundance. There lunch…you can eat here.” are so many beautiful things for the home…but don’t overlook all the sumptuous food and chocolate we present every Xmas season. We taste everything we buy before we put it in the store to make sure it’s delicious and not just about a pretty package.

Many customers wait every year

For A Unique Shopping Experience

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Terry Raven, Owner Pots & Paraphernalia 863 Canada Ave.

,

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is so popular is because we listen to our customers and know their reading preferences.

DDBIA: Booklovers are a loyal bunch – does your staff know a lot of customers by name and reading preference?

SO: Absolutely! We know a lot of people by name and always have time for a chat about books!

Q&A with Sonia Ottoson New Owner of Volume One Books DDBIA: Tell us a little about yourself?

SO: I grew up on a farm in Cowichan Station. My partner, Gordon, and I are raising two boys in Cowichan Bay. As a child I did not shop at Volume One. Our family borrowed books from the library. It wasn’t until I won two bookstore gift certificates that I first knew you could buy books in Duncan.

DDBIA: Please tell us about the recent changes happening at the bookstore?

SO: We have the same staff and give the same personalized book recommendations. The two additions you’ll notice are a couple of teenagers working behind the till and recommending what they’ve read.

DDBIA: Will we see any changes at the store or any new plans or ideas in the works?

SO: The store is doing just great right now and we are looking forward to a successful Christmas season. We’ll have our detailed Christmas newsletter highlighting this year’s new releases. Other than that it’s business as usual.

DDBIA: What do you like to read and who is your favourite author?

SO: Tough question for a bookseller! I read widely. It’s one of the few jobs where you can read for a living. On my days off I don’t get much done in my garden or around the house because I’m always wanting to finish a book.

DDBIA: What do you like best about your downtown location?

SO: People know where to find us. They’ve been coming here for decades and thanks to the new DDBIA advertising campaign and our unique location, tourists know where to find us too.

Volume One Books, 149 Kenneth St. Downtown Duncan

DDBIA: Volume One is a downtown institution – why do you think that is?

SO: We know books. Garry and Janice, the previous owners, did a phenomenal job of cultivating a knowledgeable staff of booksellers. The reason the store

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250-748-3112

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its longevity?

Music for the Soul An Interview with Robert Mari Conductor Robert Mari first wielded a baton at the age of 13, and by 15 was music director of two choirs. He now leads the the Cowichan Consort Orchestra and Choir, an ensemble of local musicians and singers that has been bringing classical music to the Valley for the last 25 years. We caught him at a recent orchestra rehearsal musing about tennis, tango and the value of live music!

You are passionate about tango and tennis, and you’re also an orchestra conductor - what is the common thread there?

Well, I would say it’s the spiritual experience - to be totally focused on the tennis ball, to get into the zone, is the goal, the purpose of playing. It’s a meditative zen state, the exhilaration of being physically present. It’s absolutely the same thing with the dance, and conducting an orchestra. I meditate a lot, so probably the common thread is about being present, the mindful experience.

Can you tell us about the Orchestra’s upcoming concert?

on different types of journeys.

Whether you listen to classical music or not, the music itself is beautiful and controlled and emotional, and covers a whole range of experiences. If you think about today’s pop music and and what little of it survives after a few years, well the same amount of “pop music” was being written back then. The fact that 200 yrs later, these symphonies are still unbelievable and amazing and moving people, is says something to the greatness of these works.

What would people get out of coming to hear a live orchestra?

Beethoven’s 7th is perhaps my favourite symphony all round, written by Beethoven in the prime of his career. Schubert’s 1st symphony was written in the same year, when Schubert was 16 years old, just starting out. So that gives you the real contrast of two different composers, both famous, writing in the same point in time, but at different stages in their careers.

There’s just nothing like a live performance, you get to see all the musicians, all the different instruments, you get the experience of the audience, which adds always a whole other dimension. And then as a conductor, I try to make my performances always vibrant, and never the same. So there is value in that moment in time, that experience that everyone has together.

Both these works are very accessible and exciting, and take you on wonderful journeys,

This is the Cowichan Consort Orchestra’s 26th season; in your opinion what has been the key to

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It’s got to be the people; it is a fantastic community resource we have here, to have an orchestra/choir combination and this many good musicians together making music, and the quality of the music they produce is absolutely remarkable.

There are a few exprofessionals, a lot of doctors, dentists, teachers…all sorts of people. Large cities always have amateur orchestras but I am amazed that out here in the country we have a group of such calibre.

How do you see the Orchestra contributing to cultural life in the valley?

SUNDAY SHOWS ARE BACK! November 6 • 2pm

SwingKey Quartet From Swing to Latin...

November 13 • 2pm

Vocals by Andrea Superstein

Redefining jazz with swing, blues, Latin, ballads, infused pop & indie rock

November 20 • 2pm The Groovin’ Hard Band with Doug Vandine on Trombone Latin, Swing, Big Band tunes

November 27• 2pm Arrowsmith Big Band led by Dave Stewart (trumpet) 18 piece big band with some of the

I think keeping best players on Vancouver Island something like this alive and going is really crucial for our local culture. I see the orchestra as a community resource, 1534 Joan Avenue Crofton and we try to do All shows are $15 at the door. everything we can to be of service to the community. We their particular likes and dislikes, incorporate children’s but everybody is touched by it choirs into our concerts, we somehow. They’ve shown how feature local singers and local much of our brains are activated performers as soloists. We have our concerto competitions, which by music, it’s just so good for brain development and for higher encourage young performers in functioning. And on a spiritual the Valley. level, how it touches us and how it aligns our body and our Tell us about the upcoming minds, it is very healthy for us. season.

A necessary part of our existence, I think!

We’ve got Handel’s Messiah on December 3rd with fabulous soloists, and we’ll have another choir joining us, so it will be huge. Our March concert will be fun, I want to put some surprises in it. And the Haydn Oratorio later in the year is going to be beautiful, it is such a fantastic work. So it’s an exciting season.

Why do we need music in our lives?

Music touches our souls in a very special way, everybody has

Cowichan Consort Orchestra presents Schubert’s First Symphony and Beethoven’s 7th Symphony. Friday, November 4, 7:30 pm Christian Reformed Church 930 Trunk Rd Duncan www.cowichanconsort.com Maki Ikemura loves the zen of playing music, sharing food with friends, and delivering babies.

A Standing Ovation for Pavel Kolesnikov

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eptember 2014, Pavel Kolesnikov on short notice traveled from Moscow to Victoria. He rehearsed with the Victoria Symphony Orchestra for a day and the following day he played Rachmaninovís formidable 3rd piano concerto in the Cowichan Performing Arts Centre. The audience leapt to its feet after hearing one of the finest piano performances presented in Duncan.

Next month Pavel returns to Duncan where he performs Chopinís Concerto No.2.

Pavel is a master of the romantic repertoire and he will probably receive another standing ovation for his outstanding performance.

Pavel Kolesnikov was born in Novosibirsk, Siberia Russia in 1989. At the age of six, he

began his piano and violin training. He entered the Moscow State Conservatoire in 2007. In that year, he was awarded the Presidentís Order Young Talent of Russia. He continued his education at the Royal College of Music in London. He participated in many festivals and won numerous awards, including the first prize at the Gilels International Piano Competition. In June 2011 he received the special Jury Prize at the XIV International P.I. Tchaikovsky Competition in Moscow. In October 2012 he won the first prize at†the Honens International Piano Competition in Calgary, Canada. Pavel plays concerts both as soloist and chamber musician in Russia, the Ukraine, Italy, Spain, Switzerland, Germany, the United Kingdom, Poland, USA and Canada.

The Victoria Symphony will also perform the Dvorakís Symphony No.7 and present the world premiere of Jordan Palís Double Concert Overture. Listen, hear and enjoy the excitement of live music. Saturday November 26, 7:30pm, Cowichan Performing Arts Centre Tickets $42 / Student $5 Available in-person Cowichan Ticket Centre, 2687 James Street Duncan or by phone 250-748-7529 and online at cowichanpac.ca Submitted by Jan de Bree

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COWICHAN BUSINESS COMMERCIAL / INVESTMENT SALES & LEASING 250 589 0969 I ewph@shaw.ca 23 Queens Road I Duncan I BC I V9L 2W1

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Sands Funeral Chapels of Victoria

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Janice L. James I Community Services Coordinator 1803 Quadra Street, Victoria BC V8T 4B8 t: 250.388.5155 c 250.886.5029 t: 250.388.6131 e: jjames@arbormemorial.com sandsvictoria.ca

ommercial real estate specialist Ed Williams has over 35 years of experience assisting individuals, corporations, government ministries, business owners and professionals locate or relocate their offices, retail establishments, warehouse and or industrial facilities.

“Since 1981 when I first became licensed with H.W. Dickie Ltd. In Duncan, Commercial Real Estate was the only field of real estate I chose to pursue.” shares Ed “ Although a lot of realtors in smaller communities dabble in commercial investment, sales and leasing, it is a very complex and diverse area of expertise requiring a great deal of knowledge and experience.

It is not for the faint of heart.

Commercial realtors will be the first to tell you that even they don’t work in certain aspects of the industry because of the complexities the various areas of specialization require.

People considering buying, selling or leasing any type of commercial/investment property are well advised to insure the realtor they choose to do business with is qualified and experienced to effectively represent them.

Since relocating back to the Cowichan Valley recently, I

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have reacquainted myself with the market and inventory. I am proud to have represented a developer in purchasing the shopping centre lands at Kingsview and am assisting him in his proposed leasing program. I was also fortunate to assist the New Life Church in the disposition of their camp in Youbou. Now I am proud to work with the long time owners of Griffiths Plumbing in the disposition of the long established showroom in the Duncan city core. This high exposure investment property is located at the intersection of Government Street & Kenneth Street, downtown Duncan. This well maintained building enjoys the unique characteristic of 3 storefronts with onsite parking. It’s permitted uses include various types of retail, office, independent schools, restaurant (excluding drive-in and drive through, residential above retail, financial institution, tourist accommodation. Interested in this commercial property?

Or interested in another commercial real estate sale or leasing opportunity or sales consultation? Please feel free to call me to arrange a meeting” Ed Williams 250 589-0969.

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FOR BUSINESS

Dave Shortill

“Saving Friends and Family since 1987” Insurance • Savings • Advice Call for free financial check up

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Are You Paying Too Much For Insurance?

ortgage Life insurance is the first place to save money when budgeting your savings. If you have purchased mortgage insurance through your bank, there are more flexible, less expensive options to consider. Although you will have to prove insurable and make application through an insurance professional, the benefits of owning vs renting your insurance are huge.

Life insurance is a wonderful product that produces tax free money to your family, business or charity for just pennies on the dollar. “There is nothing certain in life except death and taxes”.

Personal life insurance protects on both counts.

Term insurance provides a specified amount of coverage with guaranteed premiums for a chosen term. This term is renewable and convertible to a longer term including term to age 100. *The cost of term insurance has come down in recent years.

Permanent insurance has level cost and guaranteed coverage until death or age 100. Whole life and Universal life are unique policies with a strategy to pay less for permanent coverage. *On January 1, 2017 the Liberal government is taking away some of the tax benefits of Permanent Life insurance policies. Policies in place prior to this date are grandfathered.

Critical Illness insurance is the

new life insurance. This money can be used to pay for medicines or treatment from the top health providers in the world. It can also be used to pay bills while you recover from a heart attack or stroke. The stress of not working and having a family to raise can be daunting. *A return of your premiums is available if no claim is made.

This guide shows the annual cost per $1,000 of pure term insurance based on age and sex. What are you paying at the bank? Is your mortgage going up or down? Are there any other benefits with your coverage? Who receives money in case of death or illness? The above insurance rates include these additional benefits to policy holders : •Educational Scholarships of up to $8,000 per child of policy holder •Orphan benefits of $900 per month per child •Terminal illness loans •Emergency assist programs •Stop smoking assistance programs •Legal assistance •Money paid for community events Dave Shortill is a Senior Financial Advisor and President of Family Integrity Corporation based right here in the Cowichan Valley. He is a #1 bestselling author on Amazon and an avid member of our community.

Take your ten minute financial check up at www.riskdoctor.ca and start saving for your future.

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#301- 394 Duncan Street Duncan, BC V9L 3W4 250 748-1426 Fax: 250 748 2805 PO Box 1396 #101-626 First Avenue Ladysmith, BC V9G 1A9 250 245-1429 Fax: 250 245-1421 1-800-818-5703 www.palmerleslie.ca

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s you slowly make your way down the gravel driveway passing the main house at Providence Farm and approach the gnarled but wise Gerry Oak reaching up beyond the height of the nearly century old building, the sounds of machinery carefully working wood harvested from the 400 acre property follows in the wind with the smell of wildflowers.

A little further up the drive on your right, you will come to an unassuming building fashioned from found materials pieced together by volunteers, participants, and Providence Farm’s founding members. Inside, a wellequipped woodworking shop is busy turning rough lumber into custom fine furniture for customers, and smaller items for the General Store.

Everybody has a place and

meaningful tasks within the program, as they build their skills and hone their attention to the fine detail work necessary to produce heirloom quality furniture.

The atmosphere is relaxed as each participant focusses on their work while learning from an artisanal instructor, volunteers, and each other.

There are a variety of reasons people find their way to Providence Farm as participants—from having a developmental disability, mental health condition, or being in recovery from addiction—with some being long term members of the community and others using the farm as a stepping stone in their own journey.

Live edge table made in woodshop

Woodworks at Providence Farm more experience—whether instructor, volunteer, or participant, learning and sharing knowledge is reciprocated. Camaraderie develops as laughs are shared. Confidence grows as projects are finished. A sense of accomplishment materializes as something tangible is produced with hard work. Pride blooms when a participant is able to bring home or gift an item made through hours of dedication.

The woodworking program uses the philosophy that each individual in the shop is equal, some just have

Zak Stolk Violin Maker

25 Years Experience of Lutherie in the Italian Tradition.

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

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

Providence Farm Woodworks is striving to develop as a self-sustaining program.

Through commissions from the public and local businesses, and with the support of the community we have developed into a high quality woodwork shop. Most recently the Duncan Lions Club made a donation to help

purchase a SawStop table saw which is a great help in maintaining our high levels of safety for our participants (see Providence Farm’s Facebook page for a video demo). From small tables to entire kitchens, every piece receives the same attention to detail and artisanal touches, destined to spur conversation and become a feature in your home.

If you would like to find out more information or schedule an appointment to discuss a project idea, please contact woodwork@providence.bc.ca or phone 250-746-4204 ext.

27.

Andrew Brown is the Woodworking Program Manager at Providence Farm

“Building furniture while building lives”

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Wo o d w o r k s

rom pens to kitchens, the Providence Farm woodworking program is eager to design and craft a one of a kind piece for your home or office. We use a blend of traditional and modern building techniques to meet our high quality standards, so that your furniture can be enjoyed for generations.

Our commissions directly fund therapeutic programming, providing our participants with materials, tools and machinery, and high quality artisanal instruction.

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Contact: woodwork@providence.bc.ca 250-746-4204 ext.27

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

Irvin Bahnmann

ENVIRONMENTALLY BETTER THAN BURNING!

Sustainable Logging and Milling

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emote, unseen, out past the end of asphalt roads, a miraculous and unbelievably complex natural empire is being toppled.

These are the old growth forests of Vancouver Island, some the largest and most beautiful wilderness areas left on our planet. The entire west coast of North America was once covered in giant dark pillars of green, with 200 plus foot canopies reaching skyward harbouring a tremendous abundance of life within and below.

Over the years these forests have dwindled and what now remains must be left for future generations.

Second and third growth forests can supply the wood

necessary for our local needs and for an export market if harvested with care and foresight while providing meaningful work for our people.

Another way to support our forests, exert less pressure, raise awareness and assist with providing local employment is to practise careful, intensive, value added use of trees that would otherwise not be used in traditional mills.

Small local sawyers can play such a role, providing wood products of beauty and utility for all sorts of wood working and building needs.

Trees that have fallen in wind storms, been taken down for safety reasons, or individual

s are down! y when the chip We’re eco-friendl

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Storm Clean Up Minor Tree Limbing Complete Clean Up & Haul Away Services We Chip up to 6” in diameter and 12”slabs

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felled trees left unused in wood lots, can all be sources of quality wood.

Local varieties include maple, fir, oak, cedar, yew, and planted trees such as elm, ash or red oak and sequoia are found on the coast now. Live edge milled slabs for tables, counters, mantles and lumber for small projects are some of the creative ways to make the most out of west coast trees.

Building and creating with

local wood connects us with our forests, our neighbors and our friends in local businesses. When looking for wood for your project, remember the local options.

For information on wood products, wood photos, and stories go to bahnmanntimber. ca, or contact Irv at irvin@bahnmanntimber.ca 250-748-7124

For full design/build service, give us a call

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

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H

ere at Excellent Frameworks Gallery, we have framed a gorgeous array of artwork. Over the years, we have noticed that there are some great guidelines to help you with framing your work of art. These Top 10 Tips will give you a good head start on framing your art! #10. Be Prepared to Pay for Quality. Yes, the elephant in the room. Custom framing costs more than box store frames. It costs more than buying and reusing a thrift store find. And it also costs more than having a handy person buy strips of wood from the local lumber store to join together in their shop (although there are some very talented craftspeople in our community!). The reason it costs more is because every single piece that is framed is customized for that one piece of art. Every. Single. One. Each component is chopped, joined, cut, and cleaned for your piece – and that’s after the design consultation, where your local framer has ensured that all the components are not only visually designed for your art, but also meet the physical and conservation requirements that are needed. #9. Tell us the story of your Art. Each piece that we frame is being framed because it is important to you. Rarely do we frame art that does not have a story to

go with it. We have heard some amazing stories about where the art comes from, who created it, and why it is being placed into your home.

So take a good look at the art you are going to frame, and simply enjoy the stories that you will be able to share with your family and friends once it’s on your wall. #8. Show us Your Style. If you take one piece of art to ten different framers, you will get at least ten different designs offered.

Most framers will frame to the art itself, which is very important. But don’t belittle your sense of style and pizzazz – this work of art is going into your home, where you will be living with it every day. Which leads us into... #7. Commit to your Art. Once your art is framed, chances are it’s going to stay in that frame for a very long time. Longer than the life of your couch. Choose a frame design that will stand the test of time. #6. Look at your Lighting.

It sounds a bit boring, but do take a look at the light in the space where the art is going to go. If your piece needs glass on it, consider the reflection – you don’t want reflective glass to act as your mirror. If it’s in a darker area, will the art need light tones in it to

10 Tips To Custom Framing Your Art help brighten the space? #5. Be Firm, but Loose.

During the design process, it is good to have a clear idea of how you want an image framed. But also try to be open minded about what your designer suggests. If there is a component of your design that sticks out like a sore thumb, we will be honest and point it out. We will also tell you if you have a piece of lettuce stuck in your teeth. #4. Size Really Does Matter.

If you want a narrow frame on a three foot painting, let us help you choose a frame that will be strong enough to ensure it will support itself. #3. Choose the Frame that .... Fits. It’s hard to explain. Sometimes we can choose a frame right off the bat that suits it “just right”.

Sometimes it takes a bit longer. But in the end, you need to look at the design and simply know that it just works all together as one – kind of like the perfect meal at the end of an afternoon cooking session.

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#2. Don’t be Afraid. Quite often we have clients come in and say, “I have no idea how to frame this.” Framing is not for everyone, and we understand that. Our staff at Excellent Frameworks Gallery have been chosen specifically because they enjoy this process of designing and custom framing. We love what we do! #1. Be Prepared to Enjoy.

When you pick up your framed artworks, it is a gift to yourself and your personal space. Whether it’s in your home, office, or on your boat, your art can now be simply enjoyed.

Stop by Excellent Frameworks – Home of the EJ Hughes Gallery this holiday season for a free consultation for your framing needs. Photographs, memorabilia, original works of arts – we can frame it!

Excellent Frameworks, 28 Station St, Duncan www.excellentframeworks.ca

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G

IPE boards and deck tiles Image David Coulson

has become so expensive if available at all. Never mind the countless hours and dollars spent sanding and re-staining during those precious weeks in summer when you would prefer to be chillin.

Add to this, the IPE is so stable, hardly shrinks at all and requires no stain, coatings or maintenance of any kind.

It once graced the hulls of nearly all deep sea fish boats for its water and worm proof qualities and strength below the water line. It was even used as natural bearings or bushings for giant ocean going ships prop shafts because of its natural oils to lubricate.

Yes at $7 or so a lineal foot for a 6” wide deck plank, ‘IPE’ The New Cedar it is still pricey but any of my clients are installation remains the same becoming aware of this and there is no waist as is amazingly resilient wood from comes in perfectly clear 20 foot South America. lengths (if you can lift it!). And It doesn’t burn, it doesn’t even trust me, this will be the last float it is so dense. deck board in your lifetime to They call it the new cedar ever install. because we are all exhausted You remember I often espoused of paying for replacement the need to get away from wood cedar decks and panels every surfaces outside and get to terra 10 years or less because the firma and stone. That is still my available second growth wood first choice. has become so low in quality and better quality clear wood

DESIGNING

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LOCATION! DOWNTOWN

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#105 80 Station Street - Please use Craig St entrance

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10445 CHEMAINUS ROAD - RESERVATIONS 250 324 3777 But if we are starting ten feet off the ground, this poses a problem in most locales unless you are up against a hillside or rock bluff.

Recently we combine the removable interlocking IPE (pronounced EEPAY) deck tiles that we can install over a suspended vinyl or even torched on membrane deck and then transition to solid 2” x 6” IPE stair treads and landings as we descend to the ground.

The tiles over the impermeable deck provides us a drainage layer for a drip dry feeling as we step out of the house. Did I mention that IPE also has fine hairs that once wetted, provide a non-slip finish as well? I give my decks a quick hydrogen peroxide wash each fall and spring to control moss and mildew which can add to slippery conditions. This just makes the decks anew each time.

Just the solid footfall on the stair tread is a pleasure to the senses. You can almost hear the ring of the high pitch created by this natural xylophone.

The colours are rich and warm when first installed and then silver gently over time to a wonderful Westcoast patina that the Japanese refer to as Wabi Sabi, something with age to be embraced.

Like the tiles, use blind

fasteners or fasten upwards from below. The tiles are assembled with marine grade stainless steel screws and come predrilled from below to receive plastic connectors which allow for a Lego like installation.

With the damper and cooler weather upon us, we will soon miss the great outdoors. But with the addition of this warm product underfoot, outdoor decks become summer like spa surfaces all over again.

My personal and multiple office decks are also adorned with massive earthen filled stoneware pots that weigh in at over 200 pounds each. They have repeatedly been dragged across the IPE surfaces without causing as much as a scratch.

This added protection to the membranes below will extend the lifespan of the decks two fold or more.

The old saying that ‘good things don’t come cheap’, or ‘only the rich can afford to be cheap’ rings very true in this case.

Build your deck once and never look back and just enjoy your winter barbeque once again in the fresh outdoors.

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

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Teeny Tiny ArtWorks Show

T

eeny Tiny ArtWorks Show and Sale is running from Nov 4th-25th! Its time to come out and buy artwork straight off the wall for the perfect gifts this holiday season. The show runs at the Portals - The CVAC Centre of Arts, Culture and Heritage from Monday-Saturday 10-5pm and opens on Nov 4 at 12:00pm. We hope you come out and enjoy the biggest showcase of the smallest fine art pieces in the Valley!

Not to be missed...

Winter Solstice Cabaret Coming To Mill Bay December 18th & Victoria December 21st Welcoming the return of the light with a mix of jazz, folk, and classic winter carols.

Cari Burdett, Sara Marreiros, and friends www.cariburdett.com/solstice

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“

a o e A l V H t V a a H s o a c c – C

“

Mixed Metal Mimi

Daniela Petosa Ceramics

28th Annual Out of Hand Artisan Fair

“O

oh!” is an exclamation of awe, and also the acronym for Out of Hand, the artisan fair that elicits many of the former!

A holiday tradition, and the largest event of its kind on Vancouver Island, Out of Hand Artisan Fair returns to the Crystal Garden, in Victoria for three days of awesome arts, crafts, food, and entertainment: Out of Hand presents a thoughtfully sourced and curated selection of fine crafts, artisan food and one-of-a-kind fashions created by some of BC’s most creative professional artisans – many of whom live in the Cowichan Valley.

“Our 28th Annual event

features well established artisans, as well as some new discoveries”, declares Out of Hand Producer Carmen Degelman. “Many of them are new to the Fair this year so people can expect to meet some wonderful new craftspeople and designers, as well as re-visit their familiar favourites. We’re also including an artisan food market, craft distilleries and vintners, a pop-up etsy boutique, live entertainment and fabulous door prizes each day.”

Risotto are also participating.

A full list of exhibitors/ vendors and scheduled entertainment is available at www.outofhand.ca Attend Out of Hand for the art,

fashion, food, wine, spirits and fabulous home décor.

Shop handmade, buy local, and give something unique this holiday season. Gift wrapping is available at the Fair on Friday, November 25.

Show runs Friday, November 25 from 10am to 9pm, Saturday, November 26, from 10am to 6pm, and Sunday, November 27, from 10am to 4:30pm. Crystal Garden, 713 Douglas St, Victoria.

Admission is available at the door: Adult admission $9 Weekend pass $10 Seniors & students $2 off Kids under 12 admitted free.

For more information, visit www.outofhand.ca

There are a dozen Cowichan Valley and Tofino-based artisans in Out of Hand this year including The Willow Way (furniture), Daniela Petosa (ceramics), Nan C Designs Humming Bee Farm (textiles) Mixed Metal Mimi (jewellery), Nan C Designs (Needle Felting) and Kilnart Glass Studio (glass). Enrico Winery and Rockin

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Valleyview

Centre

So much to offer!

Fitness

1400 Cowichan Bay Rd Food

Valley Health and Fitness 250-743-0511 Full service gym/classes Spa and Wellness Reiki Wellness 250 743-8122 Reiki, Foot Detox, Infrared, Acupuncture, Reflexology Monet Spa 250-743-6114 Professional Spa services for parties, groups or individuals.

Country Grocer 250 743-5639 Bakery, Meat, Produce Deli & Floral Cure Artisan Meat & Cheese 250 929-2873 Charcuterie, Cheese House Made Pates Healthcare Cobble Hill Dental 250-743-6698 Friendly, Family Practice

We Welcome New Patients!

M

asimba Marimba has played a number of dances at the Mercury Theatre over the last few years. We’ve really enjoyed them and believe that you have too, judging by the smiles and joyous dancing energy that we see from the stage.

Sometimes we invite you to participate in the music by clapping or singing a part. On November 19th at the Hub, at Cowichan Station, we want to invite you further into our music. You’ll Masimba Marimba Invites still have lots of time You to a Village Gathering for dancing but also more opportunity “Magavhu” are gourd rattles to interact with the music and attached to a dancer’s legs, the musicians. We think of this which create rhythmic sounds evening as a village gathering, when the dancer moves.] a time when friends and family get together to enjoy and Masimba Marimba will also celebrate with music. do a dance set of the joyful, energetic African-based music We have two special we love, as well as playing some Zimbabwean musicians joining us that evening, master musician songs which you’ll be invited to sing with us. Join us as together Kurai Mubaiwa and Pasi we create a musical community Gunguwo. They are special for an evening. Bring snacks to because of the music they play and also because of their way of share with your friends. During this rainy weather, come in and engaging with their audience. relax, dance, sing, celebrate.

They will play marimba, mbira Families are welcome. Soft (thumb piano), ngoma (drum), drinks will be available. and hosho (gourd shaker).

Here’s how Kurai describes their music:

Our rhythms vary from Shona traditional to modern/ contemporary, with influences from southern African rhythms as well as West Indies and Afro Cuban music. This high energy duo will see you grooving along as you get mesmerized by the tight syncopated rhythms woven by active marimba chops and thundering stomping feet bundled by the sound of magavhu!!! [Note “Shona” refers to a major language and cultural tradition in Zimbabwe.

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November 19, 7PM Masimba Marimba “Village Gathering” with special guests dance, sing, enjoy, interactive, community HUB at Cowichan Station $12 or $20 for family November 20, Zimbabwean music public workshop with Kurai Mubaiwa Marimba, rhythms, singing. Rich experience North Cowichan, details upon registration 2-4PM For more info Allan Brown 250-748-9842 $30

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

Find us at 306 Duncan St. nestled bet ween the Duncan Garage and Ray’s 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

Cowichan Valley Heritage Quilters

I

t was the love of quilting that brought a handful of quilters together in 1984.

They met in a member’s basement and shared their knowledge and expertise of quilting and in the process formed many life-long friendships. Fast forward to 2016 where this group’s membership is 120 strong.

Throughout the years we have proudly become known as the Cowichan Valley Heritage Quilters and every donated quilt bears our label.

One of our purposes as a quilt group along with fellowship, advancement of our quilting skills, and promoting quilting in the community, is giving back to the community. We

donate quilts to a variety of organizations; Somenos House, Duncan and Chemainus hospices, RCMP Victim Services, fire victims in the Cowichan Valley, and donating quilts for fund raising in the community.

The Coastal Missions Society has delivered many of our quilts up and down the West Coast of Vancouver Island on the MV Coastal Messenger.

This year our members individually provided over 50 quilts to the fire victims in Fort McMurray, Alberta.

We love to show off our quilts. This past April you may have seen our quilts exhibited at the Cowichan Performing Arts Centre Art

Gallery. The Cowichan Exhibition Fair had over 100 quilts entered and on display - a large number of those beautiful quilts were created by our members. With three lovely quilt shops right in Duncan there is no shortage of fabric, thread, needles, patterns and quilting courses.

Hands Across the Water was formed to bring other ‘island’ quilters together. Once a year we meet with quilters from Mayne, Pender, and Galliano Islands. Over lunch we catch up with old friends, share laughs, show off our quilts and talk about things that inspire us.

The Cowichan Valley Heritage Quilter’s is a funloving group who support, encourage and inspire each other in the art of quilt making. We welcome quilters

of all skill levels, so whatever your age and experience level, we encourage you to drop in for a visit. We meet every Monday morning from 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. at St. Peter’s Quamichan Hall in Duncan and enjoy such things as guest speakers, workshops, demos, library, and socialization.

Membership is $20.00 annually plus a drop in fee of $2.00. We think that you will be pleasantly surprised at how welcome you feel. We will definitely keep you in stitches!

Robbin Olive President – Cowichan Valley Heritage Quilters

Above Left: Quilt by Hazel Morse Winner of Large, machine quilted, many techniques, at the Cow Ex and Champion quilt at the Cobble Hill Fair - 2016

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W

hile it’s been said that beginning a diet just before the Christmas holiday season is doomed to failure, in fact it might be the very best time to head-off bad eating habits before they fully sabotage months of hard work. It only takes ten to 14 days of overconsumption to noticeably impact one’s weight, not to mention general health and stamina when those extra calories come in the forms of sugars, alcohol, and the unhealthy fats.

By allowing for at least four weeks of transition and adjustment time, a good diet can become a habit by the time the first Christmas party invitations arrive in your in-box. The confidence boost from feeling and looking better in turn helps with the will-power needed to intelligently navigate the buffet table and endless cocktails.

Implement the following tips now, and you’re well on your way by December.

If you’re a light/moderate drinker, consider slashing your alcohol consumption. When tolerance lowers, we’re satisfied with less. Drink from smaller wine glasses and use sugar-free, low calorie mixes for cocktails.

Enjoy non-alcoholic drinks in nice vessels with those same pretty garnishes.

The most important component of the diet to reduce is sugar, particularly refined carbohydrates (fast-burning sugars). These stress the immune system, negatively affect blood sugar levels, and upset hormones that regulate metabolism, sleep, even reproductive health.

Dramatically reducing reliance on sugar quickly reduces cravings, even changing our perception of taste and satiation; those sweet temptations won’t be so appealing in a few weeks’ time.

Reduce your over-all calories by serving meals on smaller plates, and plating the food as opposed to eating buffet style at

Get A Head-start Eating Healthier This Holiday Season the table. Wait and drink a full glass of water before deciding on seconds. Over time, we can shrink the stomach and get a “feeling full” signal sooner. (One third empty is a good rule of thumb for our stomach, yet most of us eat to full capacity which destroys the “feeling full” signal and can do serious damage to our digestive systems!)

Finally, do increase your daily aerobic activity (a fast walk is fine) by ten minutes per day, working up to an additional 20 minutes. Make it a habit to have a stroll after dinner instead of settling onto the couch or the computer.

A common attitude is: “Why bother? It’s the holidays; I’ll just catch up in January.” The reality is that the set-backs to the immune and digestive systems, including metabolism, can take

weeks to repair. For every one day of over-eating, it can take a full week to get back to prior levels of weight and stamina.

(Athletes know this; it’s why many successfully partake in a “cheat meal” once per week, not once per day!) Extra calories aside, the holidays bring other health threats: more bacteria and viruses, including those we aren’t used to from travelling relatives; less and poor sleep habits; tension amongst family members; stress triggered by financial pressures. Who wants to start a fresh, new year feeling tired, depleted, and heavy?

Considered this way, there’s no better time to address the diet and begin better habits now.

Lise Duncan 250.701.3731 equipoisebody works.com

Happy Holidays and Thank You for your patronage from the gang at Cycle Therapy

Drop by to find some

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Sale

(HAPPENING NOW!) 360 Duncan St, Duncan I Mon - Sun 9:30pm - 5:30pm I 250 597 0097 I info@cycletherapy.ca I www.cycletherapy.ca

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

and one that is never ending. Using gravity and the weight of your own body, Pilates can help you reach your goals in weight loss, strength, stability and mobility.

Proven to improve posture and relieve chronic muscle pain and fatigue caused by posture abnormalities, arthritic conditions and injuries, I believe that Pilates has the answers for all bodies.

Love and Flow Fitness With Dara DeBin

H

ave you ever wanted to touch your toes? there was a time in my life this was all I wanted; I was young and becoming aware of the physical limitation already present in my body. A friend introduced me to Winsor Pilates, I paid $10.00 for a work out DVD, a padded magic circle, and a nutrition diary, and away I went. In 6 months, not only had I lost around 15 pounds but I felt great, I had spring in my step, and best of all I COULD TOUCH MY TOES! Years later, I had a baby. I felt totally out of control of my own body and did not recognize myself when I looked in the mirror. I knew what I had to do: slowly, I began to practice those familiar moves that had helped me reach my goals years previous. Once again, Pilates got me there.

My name is Dara DeBin and I am a Level One Pilates instructor living in the Duncan area. My Pilates story is one full of struggle and progress,

My classes are hosted at two beautiful local studios, Sukha (259 Craig St.) and Studio B (306 Duncan St.) Each class has a different point of focus ranging from beginners classical movements to core intensive and progressive modifications.

One on one private sessions are also available.

I teach Pilates, but more so I help people - people like you.

I take pride in your progress, I support you to reach your goals, and I help you reach new goals once you CRUSH your old ones. Let’s get started, because there is no time like the present to unite your body and your mind.

All class information can be found on Facebook: Facebook.com/Loveand FlowFitness Dara DeBin 250.634.3272

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INTUITIVE HEALER • Certified Clinical

Hypnotherapist • Certified Quantum Touch Practitioner

HEATHER LAUZON

250-732-1405

www.emeraldhealingplace.com

M

any of us have the understanding of our ability to have empathy for others.

Yet many have no idea what it is like being an empath, some have never heard the term empath. Empathy is not Empathic.

Are You An Empath?

What is empathy?

Julia Allen MA

Masters Counselling Psychology Registered Clinical Counsellor

Holistic approach to psychotherapyMind, Body and Spirit Weekly blog for insights and personal transformation

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

The majority of us have the natural capacity to be empathetic to others. We can relate to those around us in need or hurting. We can hypothetically place ourselves in their shoes. This sense of understanding or relating to another struggling generally comes to us as a result of our own life experiences.

For example most of us can relate to someone being overwhelmed with stress or understand when one is

moving through grieving the death of a loved one because we have most likely have experienced the same thing.

Just as we are all very unique and have different strengths, some of us are able to identify more easily to those around us than others. We empathize to the needs of another person.

What is an Empath?

An empath is one who has the involuntary ability to entrain to the energy of others.

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I say entrain because often what an empath picks up on often becomes them. I say involuntary because it is not a conscious decision or even a known ability to most who have it. When becoming aware of another persons energy, an empath’s emotions sway and often there is a physical response that occurs as well. Some physical responses have been described as nausea, anxiety or dizziness to name a few.

An empath reads or senses what someone is experiencing emotionally and or physically.

Some empaths are able to sense more details than other empaths.

Empaths often describe themselves as beautifully hearted, highly sensitive people. A majority of empaths go throughout life not understanding their abilities, not understanding that not everyone experiences what and how they do. Many empaths battle with chronic pain, depression, anxiety and suppressants as they struggle to find their way.

Imagine walking down the street, you are feeling good, content at peace. Then for no reason like a swinging pendulum you are upset, afraid and tired. Like it came out of nowhere… imagine this similar story happening time and time again. You will begin to question, “what is wrong with me!”

Now imagine what it would be like going into a mall, school or hospital where there are crowds of people.

To the unaware empath this is often disabling. This would be similar perhaps to having a set of headphones on and someone turning up the volume to the maximum setting. It would be

somewhat crippling – and for many it is. Even more interesting is the fact that empaths do not need to be out in public to entrain to other energies. Watching the news or even reading the newspaper can affect empaths. This is the reality for many empaths that do not have the understanding of their gifts and or the tools to support themselves. So what does one do? Empaths can’t hide from the world or from their lives.

I spent a vast majority of my life struggling with my awareness’s, having always sensed that I was different.

Yet I did not understand what that difference was, nor did I understand how it affected me. I battled depression, anxiety and chronic pain for over 30 years. I grasped to understand how I could be feeling happy and light in one moment, then sad or in fear with the world on 170 Craig St. my shoulders the next. My Duncan, B.C. journey with this double1 844 MATRAEA edged sword learning how to (628 7232) not wound myself with this www.matcentre.ca gift has educated me to help and serve others. www.matraea.com of us but it is critical for I am confident in saying that empaths! over 90% of my clients are empaths. Empaths that are I believe some come into overloaded and burdened this life experience with that with the weight of the world empath dial turned up more on their shoulders. Not than others. I believe for something they consciously some the dial is turned on decided to start packing when faced with a traumatic around…it just happened. experience and others will A majority of my clients never turn it on. I am not arrive broken and exhausted, sure if we will ever truly from the swinging ball effect understand the why or the that they feel they have no how…but I do know with control of. Going through anything there is a reason life not understanding what for it. I believe anything is happening to them or bringing awareness to it, aware of the tools available creates understanding. so they can heal and support Understanding creates the themselves. Not realizing space for learning, learning that they can feel differently. how to mold this ability into Self-care is crucial for all a gift rather than looking

Embracing wellness, family and community Acupuncture Birth Shop Counselling Massage Midwifery Naturopathy Tax Accounting LIFT Resource Centre at it as a curse. It opens up communication with loved ones that we see struggling.

It creates hope and validation that one is not alone on this journey as an empath.

I create a safe and nurturing space for all my clients to release, reconnect and reclaim their lives. I am passionate about teaching all of my clients applicable tools to support themselves outside of my office.

Heather Lauzon Intuitive Energy Healer Clinical Hypnotherapist Quantum Touch Practitioner

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O ur S pon s ors – A n

As the year is drawing to a close the Cowichan Folk Guild once again wants to thank you, all of our sponsors, small and large, who contributed to the success of the 2016 Islands Folk Festival. We look forward to seeing you all again in 2017.

Im p ort an t Part o f Ou r F es tiv a l C o m m un i t y Arbutus RV Budget Rent a Car BC Ferries BC Musician Magazine Can West Propane Cold Star Freight Celtic Cross Instruments CHEK TV Best Western Plus – Chemainus Inn Canadian Heritage CHLY FM Coast Environmental COAST FM Cowichan Green Community Cowichan Petroleum Cowichan Performing Arts Centre Cowichan Tribes Cowichan Valley Arts Council Cowichan Valley Citizen Cowichan Valley Voice Magazine CUPE Local 358 CUPE BC CUPE Vancouver Island District Council

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Bings Creek Recycling Centre Digital Orchard Dulux Paint Duncan Showroom Falcon Crest Images Footprints Security Fuller Lake Motel Great West ATM Guayaki Guitars Plus H’ulh-etun Health Society Island Return It Island Savings Credit Union JUICE FM Kevin Oke Photography Long & McQuade Lions Club Mark’s Instant Sign Shop Optimus Electric North Cowichan- Duncan RCMP Pacific Audio Works Paragon Communications Planet Clean

Panago Pizza Printcraft Progressive Waste Providence Farm Province of BC Red Arrow Brewing Company Richlock Rentals RONA Home Centre Shaw TV Special Occasions Party Rentals Starbucks Beverly Street STE Rentals Thrifty Foods Thunderbird Motor Inn Times Colonist Tom Lee Music Van Isle Fence Rental VIU Culinary Program Victoria Backline Services Victoria Folk Music Society Water Wheels Drinking Water Wessex Inn by the Sea

How To Eat Local Through Winter In The Cowichan Valley Elia operates Manna Farm, providing a year-round, full diet, free choice CSA.

E

ating local through winter in the Cowichan Valley may not be as hard as you may think. Though it is true there are less fresh foods available, you can still find a satisfying array of fresh vegetables and even more storage crops to accompany them. Together with summer preserves, you can make many delicious, nutritious, completely local meals all winter.

From November through March, you can find the following foods grown right here in the Cowichan Valley either through the year round Duncan Farmers’ Market, straight from farms through CSA (Community Shared Agriculture) programs, or

through locally oriented grocery stores like The Community Farm Store.

Cold hardy apples, kale, chard, broccoli, cauliflower, cabbage, kohlrabi, root crops (beets, carrots, winter radishes, turnips, celeriac), spinach, arugula, and parsley can handle a few frosts so you’ll likely find these vegetables fresh until earlymid December. As frosts intensify through December, most crops will either need extra coverage such as mulch or be harvested to protect against frost damage. Several of these crops store well into spring, including apples, root crops, cabbage and kohlrabi.

Other storage vegetables available include winter squash, onions, potatoes and garlic. And you will find fresh Brussels sprouts, leeks, cold hardy herbs and greenhousegrown greens all winter.

Animals never stop growing regardless of season, so you

Dynamic Pathways

Faye Stefan MA, RCC, DHHP Registered Clinical Counsellor and Certified Homeopathic Practitioner

Path to Wellness: Combining counselling with homeopathy for your emotional, mental, physical, and spiritual needs utilizing Heilkunst Sequential Timeline Therapy.

Dynamicpathways.biz | fstefan59@gmail.com | 250-815-5029

can continually find locally raised and butchered beef, pork, chicken, turkey, etc. And though egg-layers need light to continue laying through winter some farmers provide this so do continue searching for local eggs.

We must not forget grains, legumes, nuts and seeds that have been grown in summer and store well into spring. These are important additions to complete any meal. On our farm, we grow a variety of grains including khorasan, red fife, and oats. We also grow quinoa and buckwheat and an extensive variety of dry beans including black beans, kidney beans, chickpeas, etc. We also grow flax, sunflower seeds, and hulless pumpkin seeds for eating and pressing into oil. These crops along with the many storage vegetables we grow, the animals we raise, and the diligent preserving of our summer crops allows us to fully feed ourselves through winter.

We even make Big Leaf Maple syrup for a real treat!

Though this may not be possible for everyone to do, we happily share all of these organically grown goods through our year round, full diet, free choice CSA.

Bring colour to your winter garden.

• Winter flowering Camellia • Winter heather • Sweet Box • Witchhazel • Christmas Rose (Hellebore) • Viburnums

No need to leave your pots empty for winter See our table for ideas on hardy winter planters. www.dinternursery.ca

5km South of Duncan on Hwy 1

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Life and Leadership Coaching…

Inspired by Horses • Experiential Learning with Horses • Corporate and Personal Programming • Developing Horsemanship Skills • Centered Riding Lessons • Equine Behaviour Consulting • Mindfulness Retreats • Youth and Adults

www.spiritgate.ca michelle@spiritgate.ca 250 737 1484 Horses (all animals) like humans learn from the environment every moment of life. This is a bio-logical fact. We are wired to respond to our surroundings. All behaviour is based on past expe-rience as a function of its consequences and how it was reinforced.

The consequences of our responses will dictate our future behaviour.

Therefore we are training our horses every minute we are with them, whether we are conscious of it or not. Our actions will be training our horse to behave in certain ways around us. The importance of both MINDFUL and educated actions cannot be overemphasized.

What qualifies as GOOD horse training? The primary importance is the horses welfare; The horse is a sentient and intelligent animal. Unable to converse verbally with us, we must be keen-ly observant of their

Open 9am to 9pm!

DAILY 1606 Joan Avenue 250-324-2249

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body language to determine how best, we can teach them. How we can shape new behaviours through relaxation and continually encourage them towards success. Behaviour always has a function. A horse DOES NOT learn successfully through aversives such as heightened stress, pressure or punishment. They learn to avoid, escape and mistrust, lead-ing to fear, aggression and shut down.

Given a choice, horses will tend to do the things that are most reinforcing for them.

Positive Re-inforcement training sets up horses to be eager, enthusiastic, educated learners that often ex-ceed the effort we are hoping for.

Positive reinforcers such as food, praise, touch, toys is reward based training, making it both fun and inspiring for the teacher and the learner.

Because of the Cultural Fog around behaviour and outdated training

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Behaviour Science of GOOD Horse Training methods, caretakers may have inaccurate knowledge regarding the training of their horses. People need to be reeducated regarding how animals learn.

Avoid labelling a horse as having some personality trait, such as “my horse

is so stubborn.” Instead use detailed observable description of what the animals does. BE SPECIFIC with what you see and don’t waste time on trying to stop a behaviour, but teach an alternative behaviour that meets your horses needs.

Remember all behaviour is a form of communication.

Michelle Atterby, Spirit Gate Farm, experiential learning programs for adults and children. www.spiritgate.ca

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Draft Horses: Real Horsepower Christine Beattie of Cadence Lane Farm; Horse-drawn wagon rides, lessons and horse training.

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raft horses are the gentle giants of the horse kingdom. Also called heavy horses and workhorses, these are horses whose primary purpose is to pull heavy loads.

There are many dozens of draft horse breeds throughout the world. The most common in North America are the Belgian, the Clydesdale, the Percheron, and the Shire. The clydesdale is likely the most well known now, thanks to Budweiser, however all draft breeds are celebrated for their calm, friendly temperaments and make great work partners.

Draft horses weigh a ton – literally! Most drafts tip the scales at close to 2,000 pounds or more, and will eat 40-50 pounds of hay a day. Built for power and stamina, they can pull several times their own weight, and will happily do so all day long. Draft horses LOVE to work! They thrive when provided with a regular, fulfilling job to do day after day in partnership with their favourite human. I have met very few humans with as great a work ethic as the average draft horse. It is not uncommon for drafts to show signs of boredom, frustration,

and even depression when lacking regular work. When given a meaningful job and attentive care, most draft horses will be found waiting at their gate every morning, and would likely harness themselves if they had opposable thumbs!

The ancestors of our modernday draft horses date back at least as far as the time of the Roman Empire, when the likes of Julius Caesar rode big black horses into battle.

Noted for their size, strength, and bravery, these ancient warhorses proved reliable in the farm fields as well, and have been carefully bred over the centuries to produce many different outstanding draft horse breeds.

Draft horses built our civilization as we know it. From plowing fields to building roads to transporting construction materials, these horses played an invaluable role in the development of our country. Nowadays, draft horses have many different jobs around the world. In North America, they are most commonly seen doing farm work, logging, and giving carriage, wagon, and sleigh rides, as well as showing off in parades, fairs, and pulling contests. Next time you hear of draft horses

making an appearance in your community, be sure to take the opportunity to meet them up close. The size, power,

and grace of these gentle giants will amaze you.

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Instructor with

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Green Living

Chemainus Dog Training and Walking

Sit Those Butts Down!

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live with 3 males (actually 9 if I count dogs and cats - how did this happen?) either way, that combined with the fact that I own a cleaning company makes me pretty much an expert when it comes to boys who can’t hit the bowl while peeing in the toilet. Did I say “in” the toilet because what I meant to say was “at” the toilet.

Apparently their amazing hand-eye coordination when it comes to athletic endeavors or laser point preciseness hitting the bad guys on a video screen have absolutely zero crossover ability when it comes to aiming into the bowl. Could it be that a massive target placed merely inches away from their shooter doesn’t represent enough challenge? Perhaps their competitive nature is engaged and they feel the need to heighten the game by shooting backwards through their legs or while spinning round in circles or maybe they go for the long distance shot and stand on the opposite side of the bathroom like they’re going for a 3 pointer.

If this were the case then maybe I could understand why even though my boys are 7 and 12 it still smells as if we keep a diaper pail in the house or why I regrettably have to change my socks more than once/day after foolishly thinking I could wear sock feet into the kids’ bathroom, silly mom. Seriously, really boys?!

Ok, so there may be actual reasons boys miss the bowl: - when the stream first comes out it doesn’t always go straight down so can be difficult to get it pointed in

the right direction - when they are finishing up the stream gets weak and there can be a dribble that goes astray - sometimes there is splashing when the stream is coming out full force, not much they can do about that So they miss the bowl. Are they momentarily blinded after urinating and unable to see the pee on the floor or on the toilet seat? Really we just need to teach our boys to pee sitting down. Enough of the “real men do it standing up” mentality and sit those butts down. No more toilet seats carelessly left up for girls to fall through and no more pee on the floor. What a concept, it could revolutionize relationships in every household around the world.

Whose with me?

In the meantime, keep a spray bottle of peroxide based cleaner under the bathroom sink and spray regularly around the base of the toilet making sure to get to the seal.

If that’s not strong enough use a natural enzyme cleaner from the pet store designed for pet urine, yes I’ve resorted to this and it really does work.

Tracey Hanson local mompreneur and owner/operator Clean Choice EcoFriendly Cleaning Services cleanchoicecleaners. com

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Lucky Dogs...

The face…

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ogs facial expressions are commonly misinterpreted. When trying to understand what a dog is trying to communicate, it’s important to look at the whole body, but the face alone says a lot. Humans are accustomed to getting most of our information from the facial expressions of our fellow humans and a dog’s face says much the same things; we just need a translator.

Squinting eyes can mean “stay away” as much as they can mean “I am no threat at all”. What does the rest of the face look like when the dog is squinting? Is the mouth tightly shut and the ears held tightly to the head? (stay away), or is the mouth soft, maybe smiling with a nose lift and the ears lowered softly back (I am no threat at all).

When you study dog’s facial expressions try to duplicate the muscle movements. Open your eyes wide and pull your cheeks back into a low smile with your forehead muscles squinched up. It’s a smile, but not a confident one. A dog with this expression is trying to be friendly with caution;

she needs more information to decide how to react to something in front of her.

Now knit your brows together and purse your lips. It’s not a threatening look, but shows a dislike for something.

Observing which facial muscles are tense and which are relaxed shows us many of the moods your dog can be in and many of the things she is trying to convey. A dropped head with the eyes looking up (Princess Diana style) shows a slight submission without fear. Try duplicating your dog’s expression and see how you feel. It’s surprising how much information is there right in front of us. Use your mouth, your cheeks, your eyes, and the muscles on the side of your face that would move your ears. (Go on, nobody’s watching…)

Dogs will glance away from uncomfortable things just like we do. They will quickly lick their lip to try to calm themselves down (or calm you down). They will point out something to distract you from an awkward moment.

And they never lie.

Some dogs laugh. With a relaxed face and the mouth slightly open and a puff, puff, puff of breath you can see a true smile and share the joy your dog is having.

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Once you’ve studied the nuances of the dog’s expressions you will understand so much more about what is being said to you and your appreciation will expand even more.

Debbie Wood is a certified Small Animal Naturopath and can be reached at 250597-7DOG.

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Nick is a Managing Broker at Pemberton holmes and has been a realtor since 2006.

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e are very lucky here on the Island, our winters are fairly mild and so we don’t have mountains of snow to deal with every year like they do in the rest of Canada.

The problem with selling a home in the winter is that the rest of Canada is not in the same mindset as we are on the Island, and so not as many people are looking for houses at that time of year. Of course, when it does snow here, the real estate market definitely slows down, due mainly to the fact that roofs, gardens

etc. are difficult to see.

Statistics show that in the winter months’ house sales do slow down, and its not just because most of the realtors are in Mexico, its because houses don’t look as pretty, and the weather isn’t as nice.

However, on the plus side there is less competition out there, so you should get almost as many buyers looking at your home. There is no big secret to selling your house in the winter, it’s the same as in the spring, summer and fall. Neat, clean and tidy sells! So long as the grass is cut, the roof isn’t covered in moss and the house looks attractive from the road, it should be fine.

• Clean all the windows on the outside.

• Cut the grass, trim hedges and prune trees with overhanging branches.

• Have the roof professionally cleaned (if necessary) • Clean out, and wash the outside of the gutters and downspouts. (huge difference if they are white) • If you have a fence, ensure it looks straight and well maintained.

• Remove unsightly vehicles, campers and motorhomes and put them in storage.

• Put garbage and recycling containers out of sight.

• Touch up any trim or other paint that needs it, Especially the front door, this is vital.

• Be very critical, your potential buyer will be.

Margot Page

Enamelling on Copper and Steel

Jewelery • Vases • Journals • Guestbooks

Frames • Bookmarks • Magnets • Lightswitch Plates

www.imaginethatartisans.com

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Ok, so we’ve got the prospective buyer to the house, What’s next?

I believe that the first 30 seconds after you open the front door are the most important things to covert a looker into a buyer.

It’s like a job interview, first impressions are very important.

I believe that the first 30 seconds after you open the front door are the most important things to covert a looker into a buyer.

interior to do list:

Exterior Preparations:

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Selling Your Home In The Winter

250 746 8446

• Inside the front door must be bright, warm, clean and attractive.

• Make sure the house is generally a bit warmer than normal (it feels nice) • Remove pets, they are just a distraction.

• Make sure the house smells nice, but don’t use the plug in scented oils, the buyer will just think that you are covering something up.

• Kitchens and bathroom(s) must be spotlessly clean and with almost nothing on the counter surfaces, maybe just a toaster, or in the case of a bathroom, a folded hand towel.

• Clean the windows inside.

• Make up the beds as if you are going to be inspected by a sergeant major.

• Touch up the small scrapes and dents in the interior walls.

• Clean the carpet.

Most buyers will look at several houses before making a decision on which house to make an offer, and trust me, they will be very critical, even unreasonably critical, so you have to put on a very good show. Try not to allow viewings at short notice when your home isn’t looking a good as it can be.

If the buyer is genuine, they will usually make the time to come back another time.

Always be absent when your home is being shown. Buyers are never comfortable when the sellers are present and we want them to feel very comfortable, comfortable enough to sit down on your

sofa for a few minutes and take it all in.

How is all this accomplished?

Interview some realtors and get their opinion on what is needed to get the highest price possible. That bit is free! Do the work. Pick your favorite Realtor and get he or she market your house for you. Its their job and they will know what to do. The great thing about Realtors is that they will almost certainly negotiate a higher selling price for you, and they can show your house when you are at work, away on holiday or visiting friends.

I hope this helps!

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

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Buy Local, Save The Planet

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here are many good, well known reasons to buy local. More money stays in the local economy. Small, local shops also offer a wider choice of products and carry more unique one-of-a-kind items. Local businesses even donate more per employee than do national or international chains. All fantastic reasons to buy local, to be sure.

But, like always, we at Island Return It have our own perspective on things. Namely, the green perspective. Buying local is not only good for the economy, it’s good for the planet too. Here’s why.

Local businesses are far more likely to sell locally made products, reducing the massive amounts of greenhouse emissions from cargo planes and container ships. Locally-produced items will also likely come from smaller-scale farms, factories, and producers that are easier on the environment than the huge suppliers used by large chains.

Local stores are also much more likely to be located near city centers, instead of on the outskirts. This in turn leads to fewer vehicle miles traveled by customers, which in turn reduces emissions yet again.

In fact, local businesses are generally much easier to access via walking, cycling, or public transit. Related to this is the fact that small, local shops are much more efficient with their land use, contributing less to sprawl, congestion, habitat loss, and pollution. They are also more likely to use existing buildings and infrastructure than building whole new sites.

Since products are sourced more locally, less packaging is needed to transport items, less demand on landfill sites, and less pollution over all.

Locally made products also tend to be higher quality and don’t simply roll off of whatever assembly line provided the cheapest manufacturing option. These items also last longer and further reduce waste. Local shops are also far more likely to offer servicing on products they sell, so that many items can be given a second (or third) life!

Finally, local business simply care more about their local communities. Local shop owners want to make green decisions at work because they live in the same local area. They also have a lot more power to decide how

“Love is when you look into someone’s eyes and go all the way inside; to their soul and you both know... instantly!”

Angela Chase

Nichiren Buddha Hokkeko [Lotus] Society

“Live the Island Dream” Nick Brown

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

Sheryl Jardine REALTOR®

Cell: 250 661 9754 Bus: 250 746 6621 Fax: 250 746 1766 sheryljardine@royallepage.ca

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to run their business. Staff at a large chain store can have strong environmental convictions, but ultimately must adhere to company policies set outside their communities, sometimes even their countries!

This upcoming holiday season, please consider

buying locally from your neighbours. At the very least, you’ll be doing the planet a favour.

Sophy Roberge is the Marketing Manager for Island Return It Recycling Centres.

14th Annual AGM Sunday 13th November - 11:00 AM

Nichiren Peace Center, #4 - Johnny Bear Rd.

Txt. or Phone: 250. 710. 7594

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Pat Amos is a wilderness guide and natural builder.

250 748 2089 amos.hearth works@gmx.com

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hen considering the pros and cons of various wood and gas home-heating techniques, the ultimate indicator of efficiency is: ‘How much energy is being consumed to achieve a desired level of comfort?’ Listed below are a number of key factors: 1 – Combustion efficiency: How thoroughly is the fuel being converted into heat?

With solid or liquid fuelburning stoves and heaters this is measured primarily

by CO (Carbon Monoxide) levels and/or PM (particulate matter of 2.5 microns and less) in flue exhaust gasses.

For slow-gassifying metal box stoves the CO and PM are best measured per hour of burn time. For masonry heaters (with a fixed rapid burn rate and long-flywheel heat distribution) the numbers are best measured per kilo of wood loaded into the fire chamber. Both approaches can achieve close to 85% efficiency. Some masonry batch-box haters are getting into the 90s, a few points below propane and LNG. However, all of the woodburning numbers get MUCH worse if the wood is damp.

Evaporating moisture from anything takes a tremendous amount of energy no matter

what, and any fire is bound to run cooler until the wood is dry. Fast-burn masonry heaters are less likely to crash into a smoulder than slowburn gassifiers, but regardless, the best thing anyone can do to optimize the combustion efficiency of their stove or heater is make sure the wood is as dry as possible.

2 – Harvesting efficiency: How much of the heat generated is available for use within the dwelling? Every liquid or solid fuel burning device surrenders a portion of its heat to flue exhaust for drafting function. Metal box/pellet stoves with draftenhancing electric fans can improve upon the heat harvest somewhat. Masonry heaters do so with super hot gasses (usually over 1000c) moving through heat-absorbing hollow earthen chambers and leaving 80c or so to float up the chimney.

3 – Utilization efficiency: How much of the generated heat is warming our bodies?

Here is where masonry heaters have a distinct advantage. The large radiating surface areas make them comfortable to touch.

Some have warm benches for gentle conduction of far-infrared heat deep into our bones.

Given that we are ultimately generating heat to warm our bodies, the more directly we can connect with the heat source the less fuel we will consume.

caption: ‘the cat knows where its at’ photo credit: Trev Ortex

Wood-Fired Comfort 4 – Operating efficiency: How much effort is required to run the device? With electric, propane, or LNG one merely has to set a thermostat (or maybe flick a switch), pay the fuel company, and try not to think about the insanity of fracking. With highly efficient wood-burning heaters now consuming 1/5th to 1/10th the solid fuel of the old metal box stoves... a little bit of exercise while connecting with the primordial elements can be good for the soul.

5 – Embodied energy: How much energy is required to manufacture the heater and provide the fuel supply?

This includes a proportional fraction of all the energy expended in infrastructure development, resource extraction, processing,

transport and storage of materials involved. A realistic assessment will also include the costs of ongoing and endpoint waste disposal, and all environmental damages from the above. As challenging as these elements may be to quantify, there can be little doubt that a simple, durable masonry heater constructed from minimally processed earthen materials, and fueled by locally-available, readily-renewable bio-mass... expends the least embodied energy and thereby has the smallest ecological footprint.

6 – Cost per unit installed: Comparable price points for all designs...

All of which leads us to: How thoroughly is our heater helping us to relax and unwind?

AMOS 250 748 2089

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(H)EARTHWORKS Cob masonry heaters, rocket stoves and ovens Annualized passive solar heating Natural building process facilitation

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250 715 6174

Let’s Learn From Our All Our Sides And Shades

YOGA FOR WELLNESS Adjusting To Change

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hange continues to roll through our lives like weather through this valley.

Some winds of change require us to dig deep as we lean in to integrate new experiences, process loss, recover from trauma or face a variety of emotional swells.

Tools for Transition

1. Breathe, Ground, Move

Breathing is a tool that unlocks our ability to ground and center amongst swirling change. When we breathe consciously in combination with feeling the weight of gravity drawing us towards the earth we are taking the first steps towards arriving at the shifting & dynamic moment. Twenty minutes of cardio, dance or yoga can revolutionize your whole body chemistry. Cradling yourself in child pose with full breaths is helpful during intense transition.

2.

Use Your Senses When we arrive in the present we harness our great capacity for digesting life experiences.

Our senses are great vehicles that help us gather our threads of focus into the now.

Looking, listening, smelling and feeling give the mind something to focus on while centering and grounding.

3.

Sound Purge Using your voice conciously invites the safe release of emotion. Gather up what you are feeling inside and move it out of your mouth with sound.

Kids are natural at this.

4.

Get Creative & Express Yourself Art and music creation shower the brain with healthy neural activity and lower the presence of stress hormones in the body.

5.

Reach Out & Get Rest We are all alone together.

Connecting with others in a healthy way and getting lots of rest can be nurturing and provide new insightful perspectives. Explore accessing support from family, friends, trusted health & medical professionals, community resources, yoga classes, nature, animal friends and plant allies.

Christy Greenwood is a healing artist & rewilding dance facilitator helping sensitives and evolutionaries navigate emerging awareness and explore their growth edges. She offers massage therapy & medicine sessions at Matraea Centre. www.christygreenwood.ca

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hen we’re faced with a quality that bothers us, we often seek a bandaid experience - to cover it up quick. Can you relate? I’ve certainly done this enough.

The late autumn days are greatly shortening and dimming just now. I notice an impulse to paste endlesssummer kinds of distraction onto this darkening season, to imagine we can change what’s pretty impossible to change: the cycle of the seasons. What a fun moment to notice our desire to avoid simply being with things as they are.

I get it! When times are tough, the pressure is great to skip over what’s actually going on, and apply a pretty covering. As I listen to my teachers in life, I get more curious about a different way to respond to this pressure - the way of including absolutely everything that comes up. The longed-for and also the yucky. When I can do it, leaving the bandaid box on the shelf helps me be sane, relaxed, creative, and resourced. It also means that when real uplift and transcendence are being served, I can partake fully because I haven’t made myself numb pretending that everything is sunshiny and sparkly.

Are human beings made to

be “in the light” all the time?

We could be radically honest about the complexity that we embody. I can’t help but notice that our full potential is not limited to the light and “high vibration” side! Perhaps our genius and our joy are born when we dare to see and accept the power of working with every part of our reality light, dark and otherwise.

To me it’s soul medicine to learn from our all our sides and shades. Our antipathies, resistance, suffering, and ecstasies. In 5Rhythms dance-meditation, this is the elucidation we aim for: to perceive and express every flavour of our experience, in dance. In class, we might want to change the music, group, space, teacher, tight dance pants, sore part of the body - the list of “problems” could be endless. Exactly like life. Instead, we take the attitude that just giving our attention to all that arises is enlightening. None of it’s wrong, and it’s all just waiting to become self-fertilizing freedom dances - expressions of how we move with what’s real.

Chantell Foss is an accredited 5Rhythms® teacher. chantelloss.com

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he yellow heritage building at the crossroads of Marshall, Glenora and Indian Roads houses the Glenora Farm Weavery.

The weavery is owned and operated by The Ita Wegman Association of BC for Curative Education and Social Therapy, a nonprofit organization which operates Glenora Farm, a 97-acre farm off Waters Road.

Glenora Farm is a Camphill community where those with special needs live and work together with their caregivers.

Ann Lindwall, a weaver and volunteer herself, has been running a day program for residents of Glenora Farm at the weavery since 2004. Over her 20- year involvement, Ann has been continually grateful for the generous donations of looms and yarn and for other volunteers that have made the weaving program possible.

Volunteers prepare the warp on the looms with anywhere between 80 – 750 threads.

Each project is suitably designed for the weaver’s abilities, skill levels and personality. To make a tea towel, the weft is woven through the warp using a shuttle that is thrown back and forth as many as 500 times or more. “The act of weaving is rhythmical and soothing, this brings a therapeutic quality to the activity. It is satisfying to make useful things that are beautiful.” says Ann. Therapeutic

benefits of weaving include improved motor skills, social interaction and self-direction.

Skills learned assist weavers to express themselves with confidence. Research proves that your pulse rate slows and your blood pressure lowers when you weave. It is an act of mindfulness and can be meditative as the weaver creates a rhythm while throwing the shuttle.

A resident of Glenora Farm happily weaves a scarf.

Although there are no public programs, anyone is welcome to visit the weavery and see what is taking place. The small physical space supports a strong social environment for the group. The many smiles are clues they are having fun and socializing while they work. The weavers are proud of what they do and enthusiastically talk about their projects.

Each weaver has his/her own loom and works on that loom, sometimes for several months to complete a project. There are as many as eleven looms of varying sizes in use, each set with a different project.

Finished products include tea towels, bath towels, placemats, pillows, scarves, shawls, ponchos, shopping bags, baby blankets, neck pillows, crayon holders, and rag or wool rugs. These items are sold at local events, at the Glenora Farm Christmas Fair (Dec 18 at Glenora Farm, 4766 Waters Rd) and are in stock at The Glenora Store and Café. Money from the sale of

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Weaving is Therapeutic and Mindful products goes back into the weaving program.

These beautiful items serve as public awareness for Glenora Farm, showcasing some of what happens during its programs. Plans are underway to start a sheep dairy and residents who weave are excited about using their own wool in the future. The weavery is always in need of yarn and cotton fabric donations. Ann would like

to encourage people to visit, donate or volunteer. “We are extremely grateful to volunteers and donors” she says.

Hours of operation are Monday – Friday, 9:30 am until noon. If you are interested in donating or volunteering, please contact Glenora Farm at 250-715-1559.

Submitted by: Cheryl Galloway, Administrative Assistant, Glenora Farm

Denise McLean

CERTIFIED LIFELINE™ PRACTITIONER The LifeLine Technique™ helps to bridge the gap between the subconscious and conscious mind to help balance emotions and live with optimal health.

250-732-0247

azstarplays@yahoo.ca

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Infinite Love & Gratitude

By Appointment in Cobble Hill

R D t m i a a p ( t r t t e W b m

A o e c t

According to Steiner: the potato once had a purpose, as it helped us descend further into materialism. Potato chemistry goes up into the brain and causes us to think materialistic thoughts - as well, it creates a craving to eat more potatoes.

The Lightroot Quest

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he Lightroot Quest is an initiative to get an organic form of Chinese yam, or lightroot growing here in Cowichan Valley, and thence out across all of western Canada.

Rudolf Steiner describes Dioscorea batatas as a plant to replace the potato as a more appropriate and healthinducing staple for current and future humanity. Steiner also states that it is the only plant that stores “light ether” (the 4 ethers are a study unto themselves) Meaning that the root is not only a physical tonic, but also a homeopathic tonic. Of special interest, light ether counteracts EMF and Wifi energies, which have become a growing issue in our modern society.

As well, growing this plant on one’s land draws light ether into the earth, thus contributing to the healing of the planet.

General health indications include: support for lungs, kidneys, and spleen, regeneration of eyesight, enhancing the immune system, and providing antioxidants.

It also supports memory function, and has traditionally been used for treatment of poor appetite, asthma, diabetes, and emotional instability, and is said to bring balance for child development.

It is also indicated for hyperthyroidism, Alzheimer’s, chronic coughs and wheezing, arthritis, and hormonal balance.

In contrast, lightroot enhances spiritual thinking, and helps overcome the dark force of excessive electrical influence (in 1920, Steiner foresaw the environment of electrical and wifi pollution in our current condition - no pun intended!).

In the kitchen, although seeming to be limited on the “gourmet” end of things, it does well in blended soups with other vegetables, latkes, and grated into pancakes, or flatbreads or other baking, as well as a mashed “potato” version.

A non-organic version of lightroot can be purchased in Victoria, in Chinatown or at

Fairway Market. It is called Chinese yam there, or “shan yao”. The Japanese name is “nagaimo.”

An organic version will soon be available, once the Lightroot Quest gets some land on which to grow the plant on a reasonable scale (one or two acres). If you would like to help get this project underway, your assistance would be greatly appreciated. At this point, help is most needed for financing (matching bank rates), locating feasible acreage, and getting the word out. Please pass this information on. Go to GoFundMe at this link to donate to the cause: https:// www.gofundme.com/2j7tet5z Also at Kickstarter and enter “Lightroot Quest”. You can get in touch with me (Joseph Graf) via email - jgraf5@yahoo.ca or phone 250 709-8583.

Submitted by Josef Graf

The plant is revered for enhancing mental and emotional health, inducing poise and equanimity in the face of challenges. As well, the light ether component helps ease seasonal affective disorder, supporting inner light to counteract the seasonal shortage of external light.

ROWAN HAMILTON MEDICAL HERBALIST

Diploma in Phytotherapy, MNIMH, SCS, DTCM

at a healing place...

250 510 0062

Cowichan Valley

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

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

The Future Of Hydro In A Warming World People have harnessed energy from moving water for thousands of years. Greeks used various types of water wheels to grind grain in mills more than 2,000 years ago. In the late 1800s, people figured out how to harness the power to produce electricity. Throughout the 20th century and into the 21st, hydropower has expanded, producing about 17 per cent of the world’s electricity by 2014 and about 85 per cent of renewable energy — and it shows no signs of slowing.

According to the online magazine WaterWorld, “An expected 3,700 major dams may more than double the total electricity capacity of hydropower to 1,700 GW within the next two decades,” — including in my home province of B.C., where the government has started a third dam on the Peace River at Site C. “Hydropower is the most important and widely-used renewable source of energy,” the U.S. Geological Survey says.

But how “green” is hydropower, and how viable is it in a warming world with increasing water fluctuations and shortages? To some extent, it depends on the type of facility.

The Center for Climate and Energy Solutions notes some large dams are used mainly for water storage or flood control with power generation an additional function, while some are used primarily to generate electricity. Small hydro such as run-of-river is installed on running water and doesn’t use water stored in reservoirs.

Pumped storage facilities don’t generate additional energy, but store energy by pumping water from a lower reservoir to a higher one when demand and price are low, sometimes using renewable energy, and release water through turbines when price and demand are high. All have varying environmental impacts.

One of the biggest tradeoffs with large-scale hydro facilities is that building them often means flooding land used for farming and human communities. Damming rivers also impedes fish — even with technologies like fish ladders — and can harm wildlife habitat and alter river temperatures, dissolved oxygen levels and flows. And while hydropower creates fewer pollution and climate problems than fossil fuel power, it isn’t entirely clean. Clearing vegetation to build a dam and flood land can release greenhouse gases. And as vegetation decays and water levels fluctuate, methane — a greenhouse gas far more potent than carbon dioxide — can build up and escape from reservoirs.

Ironically, although hydropower is seen as an energy source that helps slow global warming, in many areas its viability is threatened by climate change. Rising greenhouse gas emissions and a warming world affect the entire hydrological cycle — surface and ground water, glaciers, precipitation, runoff and evaporation. Shifting precipitation patterns and increased droughts are changing water levels in rivers and behind hydro dams.

The massive Hoover Dam on the Colorado River is operating

at 30 per cent capacity, and new turbines have to be installed at lower elevation because of low precipitation and drought. In Nepal, “low water levels rendered a brandnew dam project ineffective and cut off the water supply farther downstream,” said John Matthews, director of fresh water and adaptation at Conservation International, in Scientific American.

Matthews and co-authors of a study in the journal PLoS Biology wrote that climate change puts 40 per cent of hydro development investments at risk.

They recommend an approach to dams and hydro that takes climate change into account, by building projects in stages so adjustments can be made as more is known about climate patterns, or by “building with nature” rather than on top of it.

Meanwhile, as more environmentally benign power technologies become increasingly cost-effective and viable, the U.S. is removing older dams, many of which

don’t have fish ladders, because costs to maintain and repair them are too high, as are environmental impacts.

Hydropower will remain part of the clean-energy equation, but we need to find the least disruptive, most efficient methods. Scientist Peter Gleick, president and cofounder of California’s Pacific Institute, says the key to supplying energy to growing populations in a warming world will be to use a diversity of power sources.

“We need to design our energy systems to be resilient in the face of growing uncertainty about technology and climate and national security and all of the factors that affect energy,” Gleick told online magazine Slate. www.davidsuzuki.org 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.

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WEBSITES, EMAILS AND VERBAL LINT By Rick Dennis

We Will Miss You! Two fabulous women in our community have announced their retirement to the Valley Voice this month Mary Ann Hartley of the Downtown Duncan Businesss Improvement Asssociation and Bobbie Blue from the Cowichan Folk Guild.

dedication to your clients and community.

We will miss engaging with Mary Ann on a regular basis.

Her affection and knowledge of all the wonderful people and businesses in the downtown Duncan area has led us to many new doors we wouldn’t have known about otherwise.

Thank you Mary Ann for your

Musician and promoter Bobbie Blue is another gem. A true advocate for the musician and artist, she has changed the way folk music is seen, heard and promoted in the Valley, attracting both new talent to perform here and new listeners.

We wish both Mary Ann and Bobbie Blue the very best in their future plans and thank them for the things they have done for us personally, and for the wonderful ways they have contributed to our community.

Delicious East Indian Cuisine

Butter Chicken Curry Chicken Vegetarian Specialties Chana Masala Pakoras Samosas

The Daily Grind Dine in or Take Out 3218 Sherman Road • 250-709-2299

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I remember skimming through the latest magazines in the drugstore as a kid until an officious clerk would come up to me and crack, “Whaddya think this is? The library?

Buy something or get out!” Now I read the latest “Rolling Stone”, “New Yorker” or “Vanity Fair” from cover to cover because this IS the library. In fact, the Cowichan branch has everything from A-Z (from “Atlantic” to “Zoomer” on their magazine shelves. Of course, they have also got books, lots of ‘em, graphic novels, CDs, DVDs, too and it’s all free! (I saw Hitchcock’s suspense classic “Rear Window” recently during the library’s monthly “Free Movie Night”) and live music featuring local acts like Beverly McKeen and Andrew McCormack There’s a Calendar of Events at the front desk. For more info on Vancouver Island branches (there are 39 of ‘em) put virl.b.ca in your browser ... Your veteran columnist visits the Lake Cowichan library when I am at the Lake hosting two volunteer radio shifts at CICV 97.5 FM: “Folk: Ancient and Modern” (everything from Cat Power to Pete Seeger) Mons. 2-4 pm and “Jazz & Blues Cruise” (Benny Goodman to Pat Metheny) Weds. 2-4 pm. Pick it up on the Net at cicv.streamon.fm ... Spotted at the weekly Thursday night jam at Jac’n’ Queens: Trumpeter Snuffy Ladret and his (Nanaimo and area?) friends doing a rousing version of the old r’n’b tune “Jump. Jive and Wail”, Iceland-born guitarslinger Thor Kristensson sitting in on a blistering version of “I Ain’t Livin’ Long Like This” and the duo from Mbira Spirit (Tafadswa and Amy Matamba) doing their own version of Johnny Cash. Guest jammers are always welcome....

The branch where you are should also have the latest newspapers. However, I prefer to browse the papers with a coffee and a muffin at my favorite coffeeshop, places like the Tin Cup, Coffee on the Moon or The Twisted Mug.

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) More than other sign, you will feel the intensity of this Scorpio Sun. Not only will you feel more passionate about every issue you deal with and every conversation you have, your focus will shift dramatically. Expect to be involved in details regarding shared property, inheritances, insurance issues, taxes and debt. On the upside, this increased passion will definitely include physical intimacy. Ah yes, familiarity breeds attempt; and chaste makes waste.

Taurus (April 20-May 20) This month the Sun is in Scorpio, which is 180° opposite from Taurus. (This only happens once a year.)

In your chart, this means the Sun is now as far away from you as it gets all year.

Meanwhile, the Sun is your source of energy. This means that for this month, you will need more rest, more sleep because you will feel tired and overworked. Definitely, respect your need for more rest. Nevertheless, Mars makes you want to travel – ah yes. And Venus will make relationships with others very affectionate and seductive.

Gemini (May 21-June 20) This month you want to be as efficient, productive and effective as possible. You will set high standards for yourself, which is a good thing because it makes you shift gears. (It’s true when they say,” If you want a job done – give it to a busy person.”) You will find that the harder you work to be better at everything – the more you will accomplish.

This desire to improve will embrace many areas of your life, including your health.

Suddenly, you’re on get well kick. This is great!

Cancer (June 21-July 22) This is a playful month because the Sun now ushers in opportunities for you to express your creativity and explore fun, social times.

(A little warning: Be patient with friends and partners while Mars is opposite your sign.) Nevertheless, accept invitations to sports events, parties and get-togethers with others because you will love to schmooze and enjoy the company of everyone.

Look for opportunities in the hospitality industry and the entertainment world.

Leo (July 23-Aug. 22) Every year at this time the Sun changes signs and creates a four-week window when your focus on home, family and your private life becomes strong. Family issues might make increasing demands on your time. However, in addition, you will choose to cocoon at home more than usual. Certain issues might provoke you to think about your youth and your past.

(Memory is so malleable: It’s never too late to have a great childhood!) Nevertheless, Venus will continue to attract invitations to party and socialize, while Mars will continue to drive you to work hard.

more private about their finances than they are about their sex lives.) However, there is another subtle influence at play, which makes you wonder about your values and what really matters in life. This month you appreciate the beauty in your surroundings. You also see how much love there is in your world. These are things we often take for granted and give little thought to – but in the next few weeks, you will notice them.

Scorpio (Oct. 23-Nov. 21) This is the only time all year when the Sun is in your sign.

It will be there from Oct. 20 to Nov. 21 giving you an opportunity to regenerate and re-energize yourself.

Yes, it’s your turn to recharge your batteries for the rest of the year. Not only that, during this one month of the year when the Sun is in your sign, you attract people to you as well as favourable circumstances. Therefore, make the most of this!

Venus will encourage you to spend money on beautiful things; while Mars will make you forthright in all your communications. Look out world!

Virgo (Aug. 23-Sept. 22) “Whoa Nelly!” The pace of your days will accelerate this month. Don’t fight this because it is an inevitable occurrence. Just go with the flow. Get out and hustle. Do whatever you can to keep up to an increased daily schedule full of short trips, errands, conversations with everyone plus increased reading, writing and studying.

Many of you are redecorating at home now as well as entertaining. You might also grab a chance to express your own artistic talents.

Sagittarius (Nov. 22-Dec. 21) The planets are sending you contradictory messages. In one way, you want to be alone so you can enjoy peace and quiet; and give serious thought to what you want to for your new year ahead. Your new year is from birthday to birthday. Ideas? Meanwhile, with Venus in your sign, you are super diplomatic and charming, which means others will be attracted to you. Everyone will want you to be on their team. And of course, your ruler Jupiter will continue to increase your popularity now and for the next year.

Libra (Sept. 23-Oct. 22) You think about money a lot but you don’t talk about it.

Financial issues are private.

(Oh yes, people are much

Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan. 19) This month is a popular time!

Enjoy the company of others Get involved with clubs and groups. Many will be elected

NOVEMBER FORECAST to a leadership position in a group. The focus of the Sun at this time also encourages you want to make goals for the future. You will have no trouble keeping up to this pace because Mars is in your sign now boosting your energy and making you right and proactive. Small wonder that you make such a great impression on bosses, VIPs and parents at this time!

Aquarius (Jan. 20-Feb. 18) This month the Sun will move across the top of your chart.

This is the only time all year this happens. When the Sun is this high in your chart, it acts like a spotlight on you, which means others notice you more than usual. (Especially bosses, parents and VIPs.) In addition, the light is flattering, which means people think you’re talented and capable.

(Do not do anything to dissuade them of this notion.)

Since this is the case, demand the advantage! Ask for what you want because people in power favour you now.

Pisces (Feb. 19-March 20) This month your desire to broaden your horizons and get a change of scenery will be strong. You want adventure and stimulation!

You also want a chance to learn something new. This is good because this will motivate you to act and do whatever you can to explore your world. Obviously, travel is an ideal choice. However, you can also expand your mind through study, courses and talking to people from other cultures and different countries. People in authority think well of you; in fact, some will have a flirtation with their boss. www.georgianicols.com

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

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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 + 10-15 word listing COLOUR 1x $62, 6x $52, 12x $42 BW 1x $51, 6X$41, 12x $31 Directory Size B - 1 logo + 1 image + 30-50 words COLOUR 1x $121 6x $111, 12x $105 BW 1x $90, 6X$81, 12x $71

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

Deadline Novmeber 12 for DECEMBER Issue 97 Accounting Services

Beauty Services

www.alternativeaccounting.ca

Alternative Accounting for Small Business Bookkeeping from $76. Personal Service Free Consultation. Client Loyalty Discounts Quickbooks Training, 107 Evans Street, Duncan 250-709-3660

ELECTROLYSIS byCindyB c.e.

• Remove unwanted hair from face and body

106-225 Canada Ave, Duncan cindybaranuik@gmail.com I 250 746 7570

Computers Repair

Childrens Music Programs

Engaging & Entertaining weekly program for parents & children 6 months - 4 years.

Drop Ins welcome!

www.jumpintomusic.ca 778.835.4541

Concrete • Polished Concrete • Placement & Finishing

250 884 1658

Counselling

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

• Decorative Concrete • Leveling and Repair

Call For A Free Quote

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Education and Tutoring MID-BRAIN ACTIVATION

FOR CHILDREN 6-12 YEARS OLD Unlock your Child’s Inner Genius

250-889-9732

infinitemind.org

More than a Meat Shop

Robin Gale 250 732 5859

Farms and Food

Gluten Free/Organic Pasta’s, Organic Meat, Homemade Sausage, International Foods.

The Duncan Butcher 430 Trans Canada Hwy 250 748 -6377 Framing and Local Art

Choose us to promote your business and services. Over 30,000 readers!

Contact Adrienne Richards 250 510 6596 adrienne@cowichanvalleyvoice.com for a HOLIDAY 2016 Rate Card.

Fences & Roofing

139 Station St. 250-748-3311 ssgfs@telus.net Professional Framing •Local Art •Unique Gifts

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PRE NATAL CLASSES:

- 6 week series - weekend series - one day intensive workshops

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

Glyn Williams 250-466-5201 white.rhino@outlook.com

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

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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

126 Station St. 250-597-REST (7378) www.resthouse.ca

Ananda Ayurveda with Asrael • Luxurious Hot Oil Massages • Ayurvedic Treatments, Consultations & Counseling • Jyotish Astrology and Yoga 250 597 3973 www.anandaayurveda.com

Reflexology, Reiki, Indian Head Massage

Enabling your body to heal itself, naturally.

TO FEEL BALANCED AND CENTRED

www.naturalheelingreflexology.com 250-732-7988

Denise McLean

CERTIFIED LIFELINE™ PRACTITIONER 250-732-0247 I azstarplays@yahoo.ca Horoscope

Landscaping

Landscape Design & Build

Introducing practices in landscape design and build incorporating the “Seven Principles of Xeriscape” Contact Mike Leslie @ (250) 246-0281 • www.ecobalancecontracting.ca

Natural Beauty

ASTRO GUIDE

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2 locations!

Natural Skincare & Cosmetics

“It made me a happy millionaire” First contact/session FREE astroguide1936@gmail.com Arie:250-619-1277

• 5380 Trans-Canada Hwy, Duncan • 155 Craig Street, Downtown Duncan

www.prudencenaturalbeauty.ca

Pet Care Spacious suites, pickup and drop-off service, kitty cams

Cowichan’s Exclusive Boarding Resort for Cats

That Cat Hotel 250-749-3728 www.ThatCatHotel.ca

Dr. Brenda’s ORGANIC REMEDIES for RADICALLY HEALTHY PETS!

• CANCER, ALLERGY, ARTHRITIS SUPPORT • Holistic Vet CONSULTS www.cowichanvet.com (250) 932-5552

Debbie Wood Certified Animal Naturopath Carnivore Nutritionist

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

Chemainus Dog Training and Walking

Instructor with

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250-857-7958 I www.chemainusdogtraining.com

Websites

Wordpress Site Set Up RICHARD BADMAN

rbadman@gmail.com 250.746.9319 Duncan, BC

PUPPY Extended Stays or Just A Day PATCH Lots of Love & Attention On a Fenced Acreage Your Dog’s Best Friend while you are Away.

Dogs Sleep In Home Duncan 250 748 8323

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