January/February 2011, Issue 27

2

3

January Events

February Events

to Feb 5

to March 5

Artists Ed Chan and Darlene Tully Imagine That! Artisans Designs, 251 Craig St., Duncan

5, 12, 19, 26 Hatha Yoga & Ecstatic Dance with Christy Lindell 123 Temple Studio, Duncan 250-737-1800 8pm

4, 5, 11, 12 7:30pm

Curtains by The South Island Musical Theatre Society Cowichan Theatre, Duncan Tickets 250-748-7529

8 7pm

Cowichan Folk Guild Coffee House “Donna and Bill Konsorado” Duncan United Church, Duncan

5 10am 4:30pm

Big Leaf Maple Syrup Festival BC Forest Discovery Centre ,2892 Drinkwater Road

9,16,23,30 9-2pm

Cobble Hill Sunday Market Cobble Hill Hall, Watson and Fisher Road

5

Parker Schmidt (11 years old!)

Duncan Garage Showroom, Duncan $10/$12

13 7 -9pm

GET Solar Info Session on Solar Hot Water Heating Shawnigan Lake Community Centre 250-686-0286

3,10,17,24 5:30 -7pm

Ayurvedic Yoga Therapy Temple Studio 123 Station St. Duncan

17 & 18

Evergreen Independent School Open House 3515 Watson Avenue, Cobble Hill 250-743-2433

GET Solar Info Session on Solar Hot Water Heating Shawnigan Lake Community Centre 250-686-0286

16 1-3pm

10 7 -9pm

“Let your Food be your Medicine” – A Different Kind of Cooking Class Affinity Guest House 250-715-7743

12 6pm & 7pm

Valentine’s 3 Course Dinner Special:

16 8pm

Alfie Zappacosta Duncan Garage Showroom, Duncan $25/$30

12

MoonDance Grand Opening Celebration of Art House 1756 Wilmot Ave, Shawnigan Lake 250.743.5846

16 7-8:30pm

Sacred Chant Circle Rivendell Yurt pre-register at 250-748-2089

12 7pm

17,24,31

Chakra Yoga Classes Rivendell Yurt pre-register at 250-748-2089

MoonDance presents Wontanara Drum and Dance & Aboubacar Camara’s Doundounba & African Food!

Cobble Hill Hall, 550 Watson Rd, 250.743.5846

20 7pm 20 8pm 21 7pm 21 8pm 22 1:30pm

Music in the Lake “The Jug Bandits” Centennial Hall, Lake Cowichan $5/free for performers

12 2pm

Cowichan Folk Guild Coffee House “Saskia and Darrell” Duncan United Church, Duncan

12 3:30 5pm

Healthy Chocolate Tasting Party Xocai Temple Studio 123 Station St. Duncan

14

Valentine’s 3 Course Dinner Arbutus Ridge Golf Club, Cobble Hill 250-743-5000

16-19 / 25 28 7:30pm

The Children’s Hour Presented by: The Shawnigan Players Duncan Garage Showroom, Duncan $12/$15

17 5:30pm & 7pm

Third Thursday Dinner Buffet: “Taste of China” Honeymoon Bay Lodge and Retreat 250-749-4252

Tapping The Big Leaf Maple WildWood, Yellowpoint 250-816-1816

19 1:30- 3pm

Native Plant Identification Workshop WildWood, Yellowpoint 250-816-1816

25 8pm 25 8pm

Ladysmith Camera Club Miksang - Contemplative Photography” Hardwick Hall, 3rd Ave@ High St, Ladysmith

20 2:30pm

British Musical Theatre featuring Calgary soprano Michelle Todd Cowichan Theatre 250 748 7529

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

21 7-8:30pm

Sacred Chant Circle Rivendell Yurt pre-register at 250-748-2089

26

Don Ross /Jimmy Wahlsteen Duncan Garage Showroom, Duncan $30/$35

Ladysmith Camera Club Hardwick Hall, 3rd Ave @ High St, Ladysmith $5

27

Silver Side Winery Fruit Wine Dinner Amuse Bistro, Shawnigan Lake Reservations 250-743-3667

27 8pm 29 10am - 1pm 30

Krystle Dos Santos Duncan Garage Showroom, Duncan $18/$20

22 8pm 22 8pm 24

Music in the Lake “Kate Reid” Centennial Hall, Lake Cowichan $5 / free for open stage

30 2pm

Lester Quitzau Hosted by Shady Grove at the Sussmans www.shadygrove.ca

24 7pm 26 7:30pm 27 2pm 27

7-8:30pm

- 3:30pm

8pm

4

Nils Dambourg, Funky Furniture Imagine That! Artisans Designs, 251 Craig St., Duncan

Kinobe / Michael Waters Duncan Garage Showroom, Duncan $15/$20 Cowichan Folk Guild: Scott Cook Location TBA CFG Members $10/$15 www.folkfest.bc.ca Needham / Wigmore Quintet Duncan Garage Showroom, Duncan $15/$20

Introduction to Ayurveda Temple Studio 123 Station St. Duncan International Sunday Brunch Arbutus Ridge Golf Club, Cobble Hill 250-743-5000

Honeymoon Bay Lodge and Retreat 250-749-4252

For The Love of Words with Bill Levity Duncan Garage Showroom, Duncan $5 for readers /$10 Averill Creek Wine Makers Dinner Amuse Bistro, Shawnigan Lake Reservations 250-743-3667

Cowichan Folk Guild: Ken Hamm Location TBA CFG Members $10/$15 250 748-3975 David Essig Hosted by Shady Grove at the Sussmans www.shadygrove.ca International Sunday Brunch Arbutus Ridge Golf Club, Cobble Hill 250-743-5000

January February Double Issue 2011

Vol 2 Issue 27

The monthly magazine for people who love to eat, live and play in the Cowichan Valley.

Published by cowichan valley voice magazine Richard & Sheila Badman Contact us at: editor@cowichanvalleyvoice.com 250-746-9319

Copy Editor Heather Walker

Writers’ Voice Editor John Steven

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

FREE COMMUNITY CALENDAR LISTINGS Date, Time, Event Title and Place ONLY Email us by the 18th Day of preceding month to: events@cowichanvalleyvoice.com.

Valley Voices Heather Walker, Rick Dennis, Marisa Goodwin, Brad Boisvert, Jenn De Valk, , John Steven,Victor Vesley, Margit Nellemann, Aaron Bichard, John Steven, Jean Crowder, Tracey Paleczka, Robin Massey, Dale Nigel Goble, Sandra Greenaway, Nils Dambourg, GET Solar, Karen Hepp, Adrienne, Richards, Nikki McCallum, Robert McCourty, Sandra Gelinas Carr, Cindy Dreger, Jenn George, Cynthia Montgomery, Debbie Shkuratoff, Christy Lindell, Jay Rastogi, Joan Cobham, Tracy Scheck, Tobi Panter, Sue McKitrick, Julia Star & The Lovely Georgia Nicols We welcome your story ideas & photo submissions, however Valley Voice magazine reserves the right to edit all submissions for space, clarity, content and style. The opinions expressed in Valley Voice Magazine do not necessarily reflect those of the editor, publishers or other authors.

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

Cover Image & Table of Contents Image Dale Nigel Goble www.dng23.com Valley Voice Magazine is published monthly.

Subscriptions are available at a cost of $35 a year within Canada and $55 a year for US or International subscribers.

Visit us at www.cowichanvalleyvoice.com

Pages

January & February Events 4 Table of Contents 5 Valley Voice Readers Poll 6 On The Farm 8 New Food Resoltuions 9 Tapping The Big Leaf Maple 10 The Evolution of teafarm 11 A Tea Party In Victoria! 12 A new way to Brew 13 Cowichan Gourmet 15 Cowichan Recyclists: Curbside Composting 16 Local Farmers Reclaim Their Soil 16 Eco Lifestyle Changes 17 Green Living 17 Cycle Cowichan 18 Tips for Winter Cycling 18 Community Solar Power 19 Interior Decorating Trends for 2011 20 Funky Furniture With A Flair 20 MoonDance Opening at the Art House 21 CRAFT by Cowichan Valley Artisans 21 Talking Arts: Dale Nigel Goble 22 Indoor Tennis at Arbutus Ridge 24 The Pacific Rim Whale Festival 24 The Legendary Maple Bay Inn 25 Building The Bridge 26 Cowichan Fok Guild Membership Drive 26 Meditation in Movement 27 Off The Grid: Resolve to Be Greener 27 New Year, New Beginning 28 Aromatherapy For Your Future 28 New Year Cleaning 29 What’s Wrong With Me? 30 Vata 30 Helpful Garden 31 Community Farm Store 32 Crowders Corner 34 Feng Shui-ing Through Life 34 Moonbeams: Moon Fasting 35 Websites, E-Mails and Verbal Lint 35 Online Author Competition Attracts Local Attention 36 Writers Voice: Judith Belton Tubers 36 January Horoscopes by Georgia Nicols 37 Outnumbered! by Sue McKitrick 37 Feature Listings Page 38

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Readers! Here’s your chance to share the best of the Valley! Tell us about your favourite people, artists, places to eat, shop and swim at home. What’s in it for you? Completed entries will be entered in a special draw for local prizes. You can also complete the poll online at www.cowichanvalleyvoice.com.

Wh o, w h at a n d w h e re a re yo u r f av o u r i te s?

Breakfast :

Grocer :

Lunch :

Spot for a drink with friends :

Bakery :

Swimming Hole :

Burger :

Local Hike :

Pizza To Go : Seafood Restaurant :

Local Artist : Local Musician : Bookshop :

Place to Take Mom : Community Service :

Coffee : Childrens’ Activities :

Favourite restaurants in order : 1.

2.

Local Business : Local Event :

3.

Local Celebrity :

Sushi Bar: Fish Monger : Meat Shop : 6

Vancouver Island Attraction : Summer Activity :

Readers Poll 2010 - 2011 What monthly columns do you enjoy? (list all in rank)

Please mail completed poll to: Valley Voice Magazine 936 Arbutus Avenue, Duncan BC V9L 5X4 Where do you live :

Have you tried any recipes found in the Valley Voice? If so, which one?

Describe The Valley Voice in 3 words.

1.

2.

3.

Do you use the events calendar?

Occupation : Year of Birth :

Which area do you think the magazine could expand on?

Have you visited a business or attended an event based on coverage in the Valley Voice?

If so which one(s)?

Name your favourite local publication?

s fo

i ng!

Gender : Other Magazines you read : Where do you pick up the Valley Voice?

the valley

What local events did you attend in 2010?

How long have you been reading the Valley Voice?

nk Th a

ar r sh

VOICE Interested in Advertising?

Please contact our delightful and cheery Diana Pink To place your ad or to request a Spring 2011 rate card contact her by phone or e-mail 250.733.2635 diana@cowichanvalleyvoice.com 7

It

may seem like an odd time of year to be thinking about fresh vegetables.

Even here in the Warm Land, seasonal-eaters like us are dining on potatoes, winter squash, the last of our garlic, and treats from our freezer.

Beef stew and fresh bread have become the staple meal at Makaria Farm.

Perhaps it’s these sparse crisper drawers that are inspiring the recent subscriptions to our 2011 Community Supported Agriculture (CSA) program. We’re all hungry for dark green vegetables, for juicy, sun-ripened tomatoes, for crisp sugar snap peas and the sweet taste of freshlypulled carrots. Registering for our CSA early in the year guarantees our subscribers a share of our harvest for 19 weeks from June through October, when our fields are full of tasty produce.

On The Farm

Some of our subscribers sign up because they love the taste and freshness of our vegetables, and they want a regular, convenient supply. Some subscribers want better diets in the New Year, and by registering now they are committing to their own health goals.

Some subscribers want to directly support local organic agriculture, and find that this is one of the best ways to do that, because in paying upfront they are helping us buy seeds and build infrastructure for the farm. And sometimes a subscriber simply wants a farm in their life: they want to visit our chickens; they want to inhale the calm of our rural neighbourhood after a day in the office.

A CSA is the closest relationship a customer can have with a farmer: subscribers share in our trials and triumphs, celebrating the first strawberries of the year and mourning the

seedlings uprooted by ravens.

They have peace of mind in knowing who is growing their food, and how we grow it.

This is our fourth year of offering a CSA program, and we hope to make this year better than ever. For more in-

formation on Makaria Farm’s CSA, visit www.makariafarm.com.

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

Duncan Farmers’ Market Moves Inside

B

eginning January 15th you can find The Duncan Farmers’ Market in

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the Cowichan Suite at the Island Savings Centre, 2687 James Street in Duncan.

Please join us from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. and help keep your farmers’ market the best in B.C.!! Come spring (March 19th) we will move back to our outdoor location on Ingram Street and in Market Square.

Thank you for your continued support and for helping to make our dreams and yours come true.

The Market will re open for regular hours Saturday & Sunday 9 to 4, on February 12th.

7575 Mays Road, North Cowichan

New Food Resolutions

M

y little family on our little farm made a big commitment last year. We made a resolution to raise more meat and source the rest from the Cowichan Valley.

We also decided to have a serious winter garden. We now have freezers full of food and I’m eating a carrot fresh from the garden. Success tastes delicious.

This strengthened my family’s connection to our community through the farmers we met and with our own meat we sold. Most meat that is available at the grocery store is absolutely

not from Vancouver Island or even British Columbia. By buying even some of your meat directly from Cowichan Valley farmers you are voting with your dollars to support a local food economy, thereby contributing to food security.

Visiting the farmer’s markets, using the Island Farm Fresh guide or the Cowichan Green Community’s Buy Local!

Buy Fresh! map are all ways of connecting to a variety of local food.

Our farm raises seven heritage breeds of chickens, ducks, broad breasted bronze turkeys (for Christmas) and Nubian goats. This next year we resolve to further expand on our meat production with some pigs, build a big root cellar and begin milking the goats after becoming goat midwives. For as many New

Year’s resolutions we make as individuals, making some as a family or with friends truly enriches our lives.

Especially when you collectively commit to making positive changes in your food sources. Simply sharing the experience of hunting and gathering at a farmer’s market and then preparing a meal using items everyone has picked: this is the good life. Try to make 2011 your local food year.

Marisa coowns Organic Fair and is immersed in food,farm and family. www.organicfair.com

British Musical Theatre

Caramelized Carrots

Charles Job conductor

Prep time 15 minutes, Serves 4

Ingredients

Organic small (4 inch) carrots Organic unsalted butter Organic extra virgin olive oil Good quality sea salt Fresh or dried tarragon or thyme Local honey Water Fresh cracked black papper to finish

Edward German Merrie England

Amount

16 scrubbed and unpeeled 1 1/2 teaspoons 2 teaspoons 1/4 teaspoons 1 teaspoon 1 tablespoon 1/3 cup

Method 1. In a frying pan on med high heat the butter and olive oil.

2. When a drop of water dances on the pan, add the carrots and brown on all sides.

3. Add salt, honey and tarragon& lemon juice.

4. Stir quickly to coat carrots , the honey will caramelize fast 5. Add the water and cover for 3-5mins ( less if you like your carrots crisper).

6. Remove the lid, stir once more and season with pepper. Enjoy immediately.

“Michelle Todd stood out for her lively stage presence, highly expressive face & delightful singing.”

THE TIMES (London)

Ivor Novello Perchance to Dream Gilbert & Sullivan HMS Pinafore Andrew Lloyd Webber Phantom of the Opera and Cats Noel Coward Bitter Sweet

“Canada’s premier light orchestra” Jurgen Gothe, CBC radio

Lionel Bart Oliver Cowichan Theatre Duncan Sunday February 20 2:30pm 250 748 7529

www.palmcourtorchestra.com

Submitted by Marisa Goodwin / Organic Fair

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Maple Tapping Workshop January 22 (near Ladysmith) 10am -2 pm Cost $45 for TLC Members $60 for non members Call 250-816-1816 or email jrastogi@conservancy.bc.ca

T

he leafless maples may appear to be resting until spring, but the stirrings of spring have already begun!

And now is the time to get in

on the action. The roots have stored the sugars produced last summer by the leaves, and now the process of transferring those sugars (mixed with water and minerals from the soil) to the buds that will produce the new leaves is beginning.

By drilling a small hole in the trunk and inserting a spile we can intercept a small amount of the sap for making syrup, teas, cooking and baking. The

Land Conservancy and the Backlund family are teaming up to share their passion and experience for this wonder of nature with a workshop to take place at the Backlunds’ property.

Submitted By Jay Rastogi

Your Invited To A Chocolate Tasting Party Natasha’s Temple February 12 3:30 - 5pm 123 Station Street, Duncan 250-715-8325

W

hen the Mayans created chocolate, its purpose was far more profound than a confectionery indulgence.

Chocolate was revered as currency, consumed as medicine and intuitively known to provide the highest forms of antioxidants designed to fight free radical damage thatcan evolve into illness and degeneration. Nowadays, this free radical damage causes almost all of the “dis-ease”

that ails our society. Coldpressed chocolate (without the nutrients cooked out of it) naturally delivers antioxidants that aging bodies desperately need.

Xocai Chocolate founded in Mayan wisdom, made in Vancouver and now available on Vancouver Island is the first ever cold-pressed chocolate. “ It is vegetarian, vegan, and diabetic friendly, without the waxes, fillers, refined sugars, dairy or guilt!”

Natasha Hutchinson urges readers to come have a taste at Temple just in time for Valentine’s Day.

CLOSED January 10 - February 11.

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

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

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Cowichan Bay Seafoods wishes you a Happy New Year 2011!

Year of the Rabbit by coco jones

ingredient and in combination with the natural setting, the farm becomes an eclectic experience. We continue to seek out some of the highest quality teas available and are excited to be offering these teas to the local area.

Currently, there are so many interesting food and farming initiatives in the Cowichan and we are thrilled to be part of the diversity.

going with PigTea, DogTea, DragonTea, RatTea and the rest of the zodiac. It has been fun innovating with new tea recipe ideas while maintaining flavour and quality above all.

The Festival is a wonderful opportunity to try new things and experience everything tea. It will be a great way to start the new year‌ especially if you are a rabbit!

CM: What will be new for teafarm in 2011?

VV: The Victoria Tea Festival in February is when we will be launching our new line of Chinese Zodiac Teas; twelve new recipes that include four black, four green and four herbal tea blends. We were inspired by 2010 being the Year of the Tiger and created TigerTea. We just kept

Teapot by Margit Nellemann

The Evolution of teafarm

An Interview with Margit Nellemann and Victor Vesely

by Claire Maison Victor Vesely and Margit Nellemann grow flowers, herbs and Camellia sinensis on their eleven acre organic farm in the Cowichan Valley.

Claire Maison: What has been your experience since the launch of teafarm a year ago?

Margit Nellemann: Our focus has become much clearer. Everything grown on the farm now has a connection to tea, whether it is herbs for blending, flowers for visual or hops for fun, it all works together. Now that people are becoming more adventurous with their tea choices, we continue to explore blending with a diversity of black, green and

white teas.

CM: You planted tea last year, how is that going?

Victor Vesely: Well, the experiment is certainly getting tested at this time of year. The plants have already experienced -11°C and hungry deer. Overall they are fairing well and we look forward to their renewal in the spring.

CM: So you blend and sell loose leaf tea, what else can people experience at the farm?

MN: We are expanding our capacity to create more of a teahouse. Art is a key

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5th Annual Victoria Tea Festival February 12th & 13th Sat 12 – 5pm Sun11am – 4pm Crystal Gardens 713 Douglas Street,Victoria Tickiets $20 Adv/$25 Door

T

ickets are on sale now for the 2011 Victoria Tea Festival at the Crystal Garden in Victoria. This weekend event features tasting of teas that originate from around the world, tea-food selections, complimentary presentations on a variety of tea topics, and opportunities to purchase hundreds of teas, tea-related products, and exquisite tea wares. A Silent Auction (live and online) will be offered with proceeds going to Camosun College Child Care Services.

Want to find out more about

Brilliant!

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this incredible event , read our interview with organizer Lisa Stekelenburg.

DVBA photo - K. Kelly

Valley VoiceHow did the idea for the festival come about?

Lisa Stekelenburg:The Fundraising Committee for Child Care Services was looking for a fundraiser that would raise significant dollars to support Camosun College Child Care Services. The idea for the Victoria Tea Festival was birthed in 2006 over a casual conversation in a backyard.

VV: Why tea?

LS:Tea fit for many reasons!

First because it was honouring to Camosun College Child Care Services. Second because the city of Victoria had a well-established reputation with tea. Third because

www.brewts.com info@brewts.com

A Victoria Tea Party! the tea industry did not have a significant consumer-focused tea exhibition in the Pacific Northwest. Silk Road and other tea businesses, such as Serious Coffee and Planet Organic, saw the value in this idea and jumped on board, offering great support and advice!

VV: How does the festival directly support Camosun College Child Care Services?

LS: The cause behind the event provides high quality child care on two campuses allowing parents the opportunity to pursue their educational and career goals while raising children. All proceeds from the festival are used for non-personnel resources, special projects and

an annual student bursary. To date, we have raised $89K. VV:What are the highlights of this year’s festival?

LS:Its our 5th year! We anticipate breaking the $100K fundraising mark. We are introducing People`s Choice Awards and an online component to our Silent Auction with GoBid. VV:Who are the workshops for?

LS:Presentations are designed for tea aficionados and tea newbies. Highlights this year include a traditional Japanese Tea Ceremony, two cooking demonstrations, and a presentation from a naturopathic doctor on naturopathy and tea.

Photo - S. Cutler

VV:Any new vendors this year?

LS:There are many exciting exhibitors at the festival who will indulge your senses in all things tea. Particularly exciting this year, is the introduction of tea ales to the festival! Spinnakers Gastro

O

Brewpub has teamed up with Silk Road to brew some yummy ales.

VV:What was the most memorable event from last year’s occasion?

LS:The generosity of all our Sponsors and 225 Volunteers!

A New Way to Enjoy your Brew

ne curious special tea product available to try at this year’s festival is “The Brewt” a specially designed infusing device made from a food safe and BpA free co polyester. The dynamic behind Brewt* technology is that it allows the tea leaves to open up while unconstricted in the vessel capable of holding up to 18 oz of water (2 cups).

After placing two teaspoons of tea or herbs in the pot, you add the water to the tea leaves and let steep for the required amount of time. Watch the leaf impart it’s flavour, antioxidants, polyphenols and other nutrients into the water.

After the infusion time, set the pot over the cup and let it rest on the edge of the cup. It will allow the infused tea to flow out of the bottom of the pot into the cup and you will begin to be enveloped with the aroma that rises after you pull the infuser off the cup. The physics behind the concept

involves pulling the flavours from the tea leaf as gravity embraces the liquid and draws it into the cup as opposed to pouring “off the top where there is less flavour”. That is what makes the BREWT such a wonderful device for the expert tea drinker. Another advantage is that you are using whole leaves, fruit pieces or coarse ground coffee. There is no packaging waste, just compostable pieces. Rinse the BREWT*, towel or air dry and wait for the next urge. It is simple, clean, healthy and fun – and that is what drinking a cuppa tea should be.

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Buy Local Food!

Cobble Hill Sunday Market

9am to 2pm • Every Sunday at Watson and Fisher TWO HALLS FULL

of Goodies and Gifts Join us for freshed baked goods for brunch!

Vendor and Busker inquiries welcome.

Call Sheila 250-701-7647.

Bistro

Bakery and Market

Simple is elegant.

Now Open

Thursday January 27 Silver Side Winery Fruit Wine Dinner

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“ Local food for local consumption”

Thursday February 24 Averill Creek Wine Makers Dinner

Dinner served Wed- Sunday Open from 5pm

Eat in or Grab to Go!

1753 Shawnigan-Mill Bay Road 250. 743 . 3667

1761 Shawnigan-Mill Bay Road (beside Moziro Coffee)

Cowichan Gourmet Image by Rebecca Bollwitt

Tea Farm Africa Tea Vinaigrette Yields: 1 ½ cups

Ingredients

Amount

Tea farm Africa Tea Water Olive Oil Apple cider vinegar Honey Dijon mustard Lemon Juice Salt and Pepper Chives chopped

3 tablespoons 1/3 cup 1 cup 1/3 cup 1 tablespoon 1 teaspoon 1 teaspoon To Taste 1 tablespoon

Method

J

anuary is here and it is time for all those New Year’s resolutions. Lose weight, exercise more, etc, etc. This year I challenge you as a New Year’s resolution to buy local and eat local whenever possible.

You may say, “it’s winter: there is no local food around. I will have to wait until spring.” In fact, this resolution cannot be broken that easily. True enough, variety is a bit less this time of year, and the farmer’s markets have closed up or shrunk down and moved inside, but there are still lots of stops to make around the Valley.

One stop many people may forget (as they are a bit tucked away) is Providence Farm.

Most people do not realize it, but they do produce a variety of produce there for the general public to purchase at their farm store. Not only are you buying and eating local: you are supporting a great cause.

Providence Farm facilitates a number of therapeutic and community programs.

Another great unique find for your local New Year’s resolution is the Vancouver Island Salt Company located right here in Cobble Hill. Yes, even local salt. Now how hard

will it be to keep up with this resolution?

And of course there is cheese from Hilary’s Cheese and fresh seafood from Cowichan Bay Seafood, as well as local meats from Quist Farm. If cooking is still a bit of your shortfall or you just do not have time, another great stop is Amusé Bakery and Market in Shawnigan Lake. They have many local products under one roof, as well as the 100 Mile Diet Raviolis all done for you: all you need to do is boil water, cook and serve.

Do not forget with all this local food that you need local wine, so stop by one of our many local vineyards and grab a bottle of wine to go with your next dinner. Stay strong with this resolution and soon it will be a part of your lifestyle.

A Culinary Institute of America trained chef, Bradford Boisvert combines his passion for local food with his passion for French cuisine at his restaurant Amusé Bistro in Shawnigan Lake.

1. Heat water to just below boiling, steep tea for 10 minutes.

2. Strain off leaves. Reserve liquid 3. Mix together remaining ingredients until well combined 4. Add tea liquid. Season.

5. For best results make dressing the day before and refrigerate to let all the flavour combined.

Chef’s Notes

This vinaigrette can be made with a number of different kinds of teafarm’s loose teas depending on what you are paring the vinaigrette with. With this vinaigrette, I prefer to serve it slightly warmed with chicken confitmore like a sauce. The earthy flavours of the tea compliment the flavours of the chicken and the apple cider cuts through the richness.

El Centro Café Grand Opening February 26

150 Craig St

A

lison Burdett and Federico Vallin have recently launched El Centro Café & Tasting Room. This modern establishment offers gourmet espresso, regional, organic culinary goods and wine, beer and spirits for our community to enjoy.

Chef Daniel Hudson brings refreshing new flavors to the table, specializing in the art of charcuterie and works with local Master cheese maker Hilary Abbott. El Centro Café is a venue for live music on

Downtown Duncan weekends and has now commenced 12 * 12 * 12 -Twelve Artists in Twelve Months with the artists’ reception on the first Saturday of every month.

Upcoming show is local artist Chantey Dayal, and her husband John Aldridge’s permanent installation pieces of poured concrete. El Centro opens at 8 am and offers free wireless-internet. Orders can be called in advance for delivery to the immediate area. An ideal destination for coffee breaks and meetings.

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Curbside Compost Collection Coming to City of Duncan

T

his February the City of Duncan will increase its curb appeal by more than a third as it rolls out complementary curbside compost collection to join its comprehensive recycling program. In an effort to divert organic material from the long, environmentally damaging trip to the landfill, the City of Duncan will deliver a Curbside Compost Kit to each residential unit currently receiving garbage collection from the City. These kits will provide an effective way for residents to recycle organic materials.

Beginning in February, residents will be expected to put their organic waste in 48-litre green curbside totes on a weekly basis to be taken up-island to a licensed composting facility. Heralded in many communities as Extreme Composting, curbside compost collection goes beyond the materials accepted in backyard composters to include such items as grease, cooked foods, meat, bones, fish, dairy and food-soiled cardboard.

Programs like this have been successful in other Island towns such as Ladysmith, with Nanaimo also recently offering curbside compost collection. The diversion of organics has seen household garbage decrease by an average of 35 to 40 percent.

Besides the reduction of the amount of material going into the trash, the introduction of curbside compost collection also typically increases household’s recycling rates

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through an increased awareness of source separation.

The positive effects on the environment are further realized by dealing with the waste locally on Vancouver Island rather than transporting the material to a landfill on the mainland. Organic materials decomposing in landfills create methane gas, a potent greenhouse gas 20 times more effective at trapping heat in the atmosphere than carbon dioxide, making it a serious contributor to climate change.

The City of Duncan is looking at ways to reduce its impact on the environment and organic resource recovery is a perfect fit. In a compartmentalized resource recovery truck, compost and unlimited recycling will be picked up one week, while compost and one 77-litre garbage can per household will be picked up the next. The material will then be taken to Cowichan Valley Regional District’s Bings Creek Transfer Station, before being shipped up to Duke Point to be turned into organic compost at International Compost Corporation. Residents of Duncan can expect their rollout kits comprised of a kitchen scrap catcher, a 48-litre curbside tote and a sample of 100 per cent compostable bags to be delivered early in the New Year.

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

Local Farmers Reclaim Their Soil With Workshop destroying the beneficial organism within the soil.”

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ighty-five farmers and agricultural enthusiasts from across Vancouver Island and British Columbia came together for a day-long workshop entitled Soil: The “Real” Dirt, held on December 9th at the Duncan Firehall with Dr. Jill Clapperton, to discuss the importance of reclaiming their soil by keeping the dirt and organisms working throughout the year.

Through Clapperton’s expertise, the workshop became a progressive step towards creating an open dialogue within our local farming community by allowing farmers to present specific questions about their own experiences with organic farming.

“We want healthy soils so we can raise healthy crops and have healthy animals as well as healthy humans,” stated Evelyn from Terra Nossa Family Farm.

“And diversity is the ultimate assurance for maintaining these healthy soil services under a variety of conditions.”

Harnessing the positive effects of bio-diversified plant mixtures, organic matter and cover cropping methods keeps the nutrients within the soil by allowing the plants to naturally attract and create the habitat best suited for their own health and resiliency.

The utilization of the same processes that we witness in nature is a critical factor for Clapperton, who has also been a long time advocate of no-till farming.

This workshop was a collaboration event hosted by the Cowichan Green Community, the Cowichan Agricultural Society and Farmers’ Institute, the City of Duncan, and the Cowichan Valley Regional District Environment Commisssion, as part of an ongoing partnership to strengthen our local food security and build a supportive agricultural community.

“We must think of soil as a living organism,” Clapperton explained. “By disrupting the soil through tillage, we are actually

For more information on other upcoming events please visit www.cowichangreencommunity. org or please contact CGC at 250-748-8506.

Green Living New Year, New Patterns, New Spaces

Eco Lifestyle Changes

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reening one’s lifestyle is more than a trend these days, and I find many people needing a little simple advice when it comes to walking lighter on the earth. I feel the fundamental first step is making a conscious shift when it comes to consuming. Learning to ask questions at each point of purchase will go far in lowering your carbon footprint and greening your life.

At a supermarket when about to purchase a six-pack of flavored yogurt, ask questions like: Where do those strawberries come from and what type of spray is used on them? Where do the products for the spray come from?

Where is the milk from? How far has it flown? How about the packaging? How much oil was drilled, refined and shipped to produce all those individually wrapped plastic containers? What will you do with the containers when they are finished? These questions may lead you to reach for that locally produced tub of organic yogurt! Or next time you pop in to buy another type

of “six-pack”: Why should I buy something flown halfway around the world, when we have so many great breweries right here? The carbon you saved right there is worth celebrating! Questions like these will soon become second nature to you. If we all asked the right questions, the earth could be a happier place.

It is an exciting “light bulb” moment when you start seeing the world as interconnected, and become aware that everything you consume comes from somewhere. When that day comes: go forth, my friend, and spread the word!

Readers are invited to send any questions you may have about greening your life to gogreen1@telus.net, and the questions may be addressed in future articles. You can also join her facebook group ‘Collaborative Future’ to get green tips, health alerts, and green news from around the world.

Adrienne is a mother of two in the Cowichan Valley and is a Green Living consultant.

he beginning of a new year is typically a time to commit to making changes and if some of the changes you are hoping to make this year involve clearing clutter and creating more organization in your home or office, here are some of the key points from our recent organization series.

The accumulation of clutter is just postponed decisions, so get in the habit of deciding if an item stays or goes at the time that it is in your hand, and if it stays, put it in it’s permanent “home” right in the moment.

Have a family meeting and identify the things that are building up on a regular basis and assign each to a different family member. You may find that what you avoid doing because you hate to deal with it, someone else is happy to take on.

Our lives are structured around schedules these days so book some time each week to deal with the problem areas in your house. Pay and file the bills or put away the laundry for example.

Have recycling bins in many rooms, kitchen, office, bedroom, that way when you find that scrap of paper, old receipt etc in your pocket or purse

it gets recycled right away instead of ending up on a surface somewhere to be dealt with later.

Make room and keep things needed at hand by changing out seasonal items. For example pack away the summer coats and hats when the cooler weather comes to make room for the fall/winter clothes.

Have a firm, one in – one out rule. When you go for that impulse buy ask yourself what you are willing to part with at home in your closet if you bring that in.

Buddy up – trade clutter clearing days with a friend where you take turns working together on each other’s spaces. Tasks that are overwhelming or daunting are easier to tackle with company.

Containers create order. Place a basket on that surface in the entrance way where everyone drops things as they come in the door for example. For the kids, bins with pictures on the outside to show them what goes inside makes it easier for them to help clean up.

Even if you only incorporate 1 or 2 of these suggestions initially, you will be rewarded by reaching your goal of creating a more organized space.

Best of luck!

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

Kundalini Yoga Classes

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

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Cycle Cowichan: Building Bike Culture in Cowichan They’re about as easy to remember as, well, riding a bike.

From the obvious economic advantages of travelling via a vehicle not reliant on highpriced oil to the indisputable health benefits of self-propulsion to the non-polluting nature of pedal-power, it’s no wonder cycling’s popularity is riding high.

Judging by the numbers of cyclists out on Cowichan roads, it’s apparent cycling is now considered a viable solution to many people’s

transportation needs.

In recognition of this trend, Cycle Cowichan has been born.

In an effort to bring the voices and needs of cyclists together, a coalition of avid cyclists is reenergizing efforts to create a safe environment for cycling in the area.

The first step is the launch of a new website to help keep the cycling community communicating.

The new website,

www.cyclecowichan.ca, provides a portal for cycling enthusiasts to keep informed about local cycling issues, learn about important cycling tips and trips and become involved in creating a safe cycling culture within the region.

Cyclists are encouraged to sign up for a free membership and lend their voice to help advocate for increased and safer cycling infrastructure such as dedicated bike lanes, increased signage and secure bike parking, as well as become involved in creating

greater awareness for all road users.

Cycle Cowichan believes that by removing barriers to cycling and working with local governments to create better cycling conditions, the entire community benefits.

For more information, to get involved or to become a member, visit www.cyclecowichan.ca.

Tips for Safe and Comfortable Winter Cycling West Coast winters offer a special challenge to commuters and cyclists, but the difficulties can be minimized with attention to three important details: rain-proofing, layer-

ing, and increasing visibility.

Taking steps to winterize your bike and yourself creates the foundation for safe, comfortable journeys.

For your bike, the simple

MoonDance Dyanmic Arts School’s Grand Opening Celebration of the Art House

Saturday, February 12th Afternoon workshops at the Art House: West African Dance & Drumming with Special Guest Instructors Advanced registration required

Workshop $20; includes special 50% off discount for Evening Show. For ticket information please call 250 743 5846 or visit www.moondancearts.ca • Workshop A: 3:00pm • Workshop B: 4:30pm 1756 Wilmot Avenue, Shawnigan Lake Village

Evening Performances at Cobble Hill Hall Wontanara Drum and Dance (Victoria) Aboubacar Camara’s Doundounba (Vancouver) Tickets $10 advance / $12 door Cash Bar + African Food Doors open at 7pm 550 Watson Road at Fisher

MoonDance Dynamic Arts School welcomes you to experience a variety of cultural dance, music, fitness and much more for children & adults.

250 743 5846 www.moondancearts.ca 18

attachment of front and back fenders will restrict the flow of water spraying your ankles and up your back. The grey, rainy days and early nightfall make visibility a top priority. You want to see and be seen from all sides, so that means having a bright beam out front in the form of a head lamp on your helmet or attached to the bike, and/or a flashing light facing back, just under the seat.

Rainproof, cycling-specific clothing is a worthwhile investment. It’s made from technical fabrics such as Gore-tex, which repel the wind and rain. Layer your clothing for the option of removing items as you warm up. The layer closest to your body wicks away sweat, while outer layers combat external

elements. Most cycling wear has reflective strips that glow in headlights, but you can also purchase a lightweight, neon yellow vest or rain shell that is visible day or night.

On a ride, it’s your hands that will be most susceptible to the cold, not only causing discomfort but also restricting easy movement. Waterproof gloves keep your hands warm and able to manoeuvre your bike around wet leaves and puddles or brake gently down hills.

You can still maintain fitness and save money on transportation costs over the winter with a little preparation. Don’t let the weather be a deterrent!

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

Buy Solar Power As A Community!

Jason Sam installing solar panels.

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he vision of the Canadian Solar Installers Association states: “By 2025, solar energy is widely deployed throughout Canada, having already achieved market competitiveness that removes the need for government incentives and is recognized as an established component of Canada’s energy mix. The solar industry will be supporting more than 35,000 jobs in the economy and displacing 15-31 million tonnes of greenhouse gas emissions per year, providing a safer, cleaner environment for generations to come.”

To secure your energy costs, consider installing a solar hot-water heating system.

Doing so will save you money and it will prevent an average of 1,100 pounds of CO2 from being released into the environment per year .

Solar Hot-Water Group Bulk Buy possibilities will be discussed January 13th and February 10th, from 7-9 pm at the Shawnigan Lake Community Centre.

G.E.T. Solar Solutions wishes to participate in actualizing solar potential in an effort to promote economic and environmentally friendly energy usage.

Act locally – think globally!

Jim Musselwhite (Founder/Journeyman Plumber 20 yrs), Kelly Musselwhite (Executive), and Jason Sam (Renewable Energy Technician) of G.E.T. Solar Solutions.

Family owned and operated G.E.T. Solar Solutions is a local business committed to providing consumers with the opportunity to make a positive difference to their carbon footprint by supporting increased energy efficiency. They will be offering information sessions to discuss both individual and collective solar hot-water heating opportunities to Cowichan Valley residents.

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Interior Decorating Trends for 2011

pillows made from organic cotton and hemp (by NikkiDesigns)

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f you are thinking of making some changes to your home this year, here are some of the newest décor trends and ways that you can incorporate them

into your home.

Paint Colours: According to top paint manufacturer Sico, more lively paint colours are making a comeback. Colour-

ful hues such as deep reds and purples, vivid blues and greens, earthy golds and clays will all be popular in 2011.

We will continue to see dark brown used, as well as aqua and soft pink. If your walls are already a neutral colour like tan, cream, or sage green, try painting one accent wall a bolder colour like coral or barn red. Or simply bring in some pillows or a throw that have some of the newest colours.

Another way to freshen your walls is with wallpaper. There are so many beautiful new wallpapers to choose from, you will have no problem finding one to match your existing décor. Papering one wall in your bedroom, entry or dining room can be a simple way to add interest and colour to your home.

Window Coverings: Simple, relaxed, yet luxurious is the most popular style for your windows this year. Roman blinds, roller blinds and pleated draperies with subtle patterns are all great choices.

Unexpected colours like deep purple and sheer fabrics can liven up the look. Fabrics like faux silk and washable linen will provide the luxurious look, while being easy to care for.

Choose Green Materials: Products and materials such as bronze, copper, clay, organic cotton, linen and hemp that are eco-friendly, contribute to healthy indoor air quality and can be repurposed or recycled, will be in high demand. Other natural textures to look for and use in your home are jute (rugs), bamboo (furniture, towels, flooring, and fabrics) and organic wool (rugs).

Hemp, which is grown without pesticides and is the strongest fibre known to man, can be found in draperies, roman blinds, bedding, pillows and table linens.

Nikki MacCallum is the owner of NikkiDesigns, a company that makes custom home decor products, specializing in organic fabrics www.sewingbynikki.com

Funky Furniture with Flair

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ils Damborg has worked for over thirty years as a journeyman machinist in the forest industry on Vancouver Island. He is now following in his Danish grandfather’s footsteps as an artist constructing one-of-a-kind pieces of

furniture using maple, walnut, cherry and other woods. Each item has its own unique design and dimension, often featuring special lamination and finishing.

Sofa tables, plant stands, even Nil Damborg Cheese Boards

tea trays provide places to set your most cherished possessions. Give Nils an idea of what you envision and add a little flair and function to that hard-to-fill space in your home.

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Nils Damborg January 10 - February 5 Showing at Imagine That!

Artisans’ Designs, 251 Craig Street, Duncan www.imaginethatartisans.com

This top level studio space is enhanced with abundant natural light, high ceilings, bamboo floors, clay walls and a west-facing deck overlooking Shawnigan Lake Village.

Art House Opening: MoonDance Dynamic Art School

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vibrant cultural and creative hub, MoonDance Dynamic Arts School has been on Vancouver Island for over 11 years. Known for celebrating diversity and cultural understanding through the dance, music and the arts, MoonDance offers a wide range of classes and workshops for people of all ages to enjoy.

MoonDance is pleased to announce their new home at the beautiful Art House located in the heart of Shawnigan Lake Village beginning January 4.

Artistic Director Lynn Weaver shares her passion for community through the creation of the Art House. She says: “The Art House was built to engage the creative arts while being a welcoming space for the community.” Classes and workshops are taught by local, guest and international teachers.

Classes currently include: West African Dance (classes for all ages), West African Drumming (Djembe), Kids Creative Dance, Bhangra for kids, Yoga, Adult Ballet, Asana Dance, Modern, Contact Improvisation, Pilates, Composition and Performance Art for Youth and fitness classes, ongoing workshops and more. The Art House is available for community and business bookings. www.moondancearts.ca

craft

The origins of craft guilds go back almost 2,000 years.

They have a rich and varied history, functioning at various times in diverse roles as schools, cartels, and social organizations. They both disseminated and protected the technology and knowledge they held. Paradoxically, they are thought to be a precursor to both trade unions and the modern corporation. Guilds fell out of popularity and political influence in the late 18th and early 19th century due to the industrialization and modernization of trade and industry.

In recent times there has been a move towards rediscovering traditional craft and, along with this movement, new craft organizations are emerging. The Internet is playing a role in bringing interested parties together from diverse backgrounds and geographies to collaborate in shared interests. This has an effect in our nonvirtual (I hesitate to say “real”) communities as well. A great example of this is in the world of music: there is a definite resurgence in people learning and playing music, including traditional and folk music (check out the Cowichan Folk Guild). www.folkfest.bc.ca This month has been one of reflection (I am writing this as the New Year is fast approaching). Cowichan Valley Artisans has been in existence for about a year now, and as the months pass we continue to refine and define who and what we are. I feel fortunate to be part of this group of talented and creative people. We have created a community that is fulfilling the role of what I imagine a guild of old might have had. We’ve given and received feedback on each other’s work, participated in community events, staged an exhibition, and done cooperative promotion. I am energized by the creativity and positive support of my fellow CVA’ers.

This brings me to our new mission statement, one we are very proud of:

We are a group of professional artisans promoting and selling fine craft and contributing to and enhancing fine craft, art, culture, responsible food and mindful living in the Cowichan Valley.

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

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Dale Nigel Goble www.dng23.com info@dng23.com 250.746.2022

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hen did you first realize that you wanted to be an artist professionally?

That realization came very early on (perhaps 3 or 4) that art / drawing, creativity would be my path - not being an artist specifically as I had no idea what that meant or that people made a living out of art. When you grow up in the countryside you develop a great imagination and pencils were available, so you start to draw. And you just keep drawing pictures because that is what you have taught yourself to do.

Tell us about your first exhibition?

My first proper exhibition was held in a gallery called Manifesto in Edmonton, Alberta and was a great success! I sold at least 16 paintings opening night and several more in the following days. The gallery said it was the most successful exhibit they had ever held, which gave me a big boost of confidence. All the TV crews were out and all the newspapers - I really felt that I was on the right path with my art, not because of the media attention, but because of the

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passion and excitement I had in creating the work and the way people responded.

You have such an impressive international repertoire of work. How did you come to base yourself and live in the Cowichan Valley?

I moved here several years ago almost as an escape from the hustle and bustle of urban life.

I had come to visit family over the holidays. All the fog and rain really depressed me - but it had a strange lure. I put some small paintings in local spots and they would sell as fast as I painted them. I felt very good to have people in a rural place responding to my work that way. We live in such an incredible time that one can live anywhere and work anywhere- location no longer determines success or caliber of work. That being said, it is very important to travel to these places, get inspired, take what you can, come home, and get back to work as quick as you can so that you can keep pace with your ideas.

The Earl Grey steel series are rather intriguing - what’s the story behind these horse pieces?

These Earls were done from a series of sketches at my in-laws home a couple of Christmases’ ago. We were snowed in but what a great place to be snowed in. A nice warm fire, and a bunch of horses out back in the snow. I had a little Moleskine and started these thumbnail drawings - they were quick and crude - but somehow charming. After a week of cabin fever, we left the farm,

a p s a l

Image courtesy Nik West

Talking Art with Dale Nigel Goble and came home. I scanned those drawings, worked them a bit, tried a few variations, and then thought I ought to make this in cutout steel. My friend Chris was running the water jet and set me up with some sample small horses which looked amazing! I wanted a thousand of those little Earls, but the cost was so much.

We grinded them down, welded them, and then had them powder coated for an even, nice finished feel. They have a certain appeal and charm.Then we went bigger 4 foot horses - which is currently the largest horse available. We have been sending the horses to folks all over and so far the greatest response is from New York City. Maybe because there

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Interior Studio mage courtesy Nik West

Midnight Barn from the Four Farm Folio Series 16”x16”

are so few horses there? I will produce more of these - and have some sketches completed of deer and large scale flowers that are a little more abstract.

We love the barn series! Are the images based on specific barns in the Valley?

Yes, these are all great barns that one can see from the highway or side roads. The first was the winterbarn - I was driving to my sister in law’s and kept seeing this barn that looked really beautiful - I went back the next morning, took some photos, came home and got to work. By the end of the day I had finished that drawing, driven all over the Valley and found a few others that were really great - then assembled them all into a nice silkscreen portfolio called four farm folio. I have since added to

this collection and have at least a dozen in the works as well as woodcut prints and even steel and wood replica models of Cowichan Valley barns. I took barns for granted most of my life, even after spending many years on a farm - now I see them as rural towers of industry - much like the skyscrapers in the city.

They are wonderful symbols of hard work and provision, and life well spent. I love spotting them.

Years ago in the city at the cafe, we would sit and watch for nice cars, motorcycles or women to walk by, now it is barnspotting.

What do you do to stay fresh and inspired here as an artist?

Get out of bed. There are 1000 images to be done, without even leaving the bedroom.

Also, travel is the best, you can

Your source for locally made clothing and jewelry.

take a weekend away and come back with enough material for a year’s worth of paintings.

specifically showcase editioned silkscreen, woodcut, and sculptural works.

What is your most treasured artist tool and who makes it?

Currently, Water Jet Cutter. by Calpyso.

Who is an artist you most admire right now?

That is a very tough question. I admire so many and for so many reasons. An artist that I might have passed over 10 years ago I might love and look at their work daily today. Alex Katz for example - I used to think he was terrible, but now he is my favorite living artist.

If I had to pick one and only one from history it would be Pablo Picasso as he was the most inventive and versatile in so many mediums. He just kept going and had an intense passion for creating which lasted his entire life. It seems cliche, but if you really study his work you will see what I mean.

What books are you reading right now?

Fernand Leger (french painter), Thyssen Museum Catalogue from Spain (English Version), Alex Katz Night Paintings. I have a large library of art and design books and study these daily.

What are you working on now?

A new edition of small steel sculptures for Tom Slaughter in New York (tomslaughter.com).

Several commercial design work contracts, a lot of paintings and prints and new sculpture designs.

We are launching a site called maplemountaineditions.com to

This month’s Valley Voice cover image was created by Dale Nigel Goble.

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Looking for something to do for March Break? he Pacific Rim Whale Festival is pleased to announce Tofino’s Mark Hobson as its 2011 poster artist. For the 25th anniversary year, the festival’s board of directors selected Mark’s portfolio from a range of artists.

Hundreds of festival posters are distributed and sold across Vancouver Island and the Lower Mainland as a means of marketing the festival and the poster itself has become a collector’s item in recent years.

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Mark notes how he has been a part of and close to the festival from the beginning, “I am honored to be involved in the twenty-fifth anniversary of the whale festival. In 1986 when the first festival was held I was running the Wickaninnish Centre as a Park interpreter.

We had opened the centre that March for the first time to feature programs on the gray whale migration. Now, twentyfive years later it is impressive to see how well known the fes-

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tival and the gray whale’s story have become”.

Mark Hobson is a Tofino local who has been painting for over twenty-five years. He is a diverse artist in both subject and media, best known for his passionate portrayals of the B.C. coast, from pounding surf to sheltered cove; from rainforests to the underwater realm. The richness of the natural environment and its wildlife comes alive in his work. Professionally trained as a biologist, he taught high school science for nine years before making painting his career. Self-taught as an artist, his paintings are simultaneously accurate and sensitive depictions of the many moods of wilderness and rural landscapes.

March 19th to 27th, 2011 will mark the 25th anniversary of the Festival which started as a celebration of the annual migration of the grey whales from Baja Peninsula to Alaska’s Bering Strait.

Over the years the festival has grown, celebrating not just whales but also the rich heritage and unique coastal environment found only on the West Coast of Vancouver Island. Check out the 2011 poster and find out more information about the festival at: pacificrimwhalefestival.com.

Indoor Tennis is Thriving at Arbutus Ridge

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he Arbutus Ridge Golf Club if often thought of as just a golf course with a restaurant (Satellite Bar & Grille), but what the public generally don’t know is that the facility has the only covered tennis courts between Victoria and Nanaimo. In February 2010 a brand new bubble was erected and in September 2010 all three courts were resurfaced.

Arbutus Ridge also recently hired a new Tennis Professional, Art Hobbs, to provide quality teaching and programs for beginner and experienced players alike. Hobbs is no stranger to top caliber competition, currently the 125th ranked senior player in the world, Art placed 3rd in the Canadian Nationals 50 + in 2009, and was winner of numerous titles at the South Cowichan Lawn Tennis Club.

“Art brings a top quality playing resume with excellent experience as a teacher from

his days in Singapore. We are extremely excited to have Art as our Tennis Professional at Arbutus Ridge,” states Arbutus Ridge Golf Club General Manager Jason Lowe.

Hobbs has created multiple programs for instruction in 2011 including Junior instructional programs levels 1, 2 & 3, group, or one on one adult tennis lessons, competitive tournaments as well as combining golf and tennis programs with the GBC Golf Academy instructor Edd Boudreau. “The Golf and Tennis programs have always been a huge hit with the locals but with Art’s reputation and passion for teaching we are looking forward to even greater numbers next year,” says Boudreau.

The Legendary Maple Bay Inn

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or many years after its 1922 construction the Maple Inn (on the site of the present-day Brigantine Inn Pub) was a major feature on the beach in Maple Bay. The Cowichan Leader’s anonymous correspondent once described it in these terms:

owners to make this ground into a terraced garden, the lot being most suited for such an enterprise. It runs right down to the beach where bathing houses and a boathouse are about to be erected. For the convenience of swimmers and others, a float is being moored opposite the hotel.”

“The outside of the building has been painted brown and white, reminding one of some of the old inns of the English countryside. A very spacious verandah faces the sea, and is of the same size as the lounge, 30’ by 18’. On either side of the verandah are long flights of steps leading down to what will, in good time, be a very picturesque garden. At present a shale path has been bordered by large rocks and one or two beds have been planted out.”

“One can enter the Inn by either of the folding doors on the verandah. They lead into a commodious looking lounge in which are found very comfortable sea grass chairs of all sizes and styles. A neat grass mat is placed in the middle of the floor and, by the side of an extra large, open fireplace, is a wooden screen with a very pretty brocaded blue lining, the same material being utilized for the curtains.”

“It is the intention of the

“African spears and unique implements of war are found

around the lounge, while the back entrance door, which also leads into the lounge, has a panelled effect… Over on the opposite side [of the McBeans’ living quarters], with a magnificent window space and commanding a very fine view of the bay, is the dining room. Here individual tables have been placed, with leather-seated chairs to accompany them. A dumb waiter has been installed…”

The accompanying photograph from the 1940s shows the main body of the Inn as five bays across, with the two end bays gabled and peaked perpendicularly to the water, half-timbered under the peaks. The structure was three stories high. There was a veranda upon the third floor and another on the second floor, with three sets of French doors opening onto it.

In 1924 the dining room was enlarged and improvements were made to the walks and gardens. The gardens were much acclaimed and were open to the public. Moonlight dances and moonlight boating picnics became popular events.

In the image, the building section to the left, with the open window, is the present Brigantine Inn Pub, and is all that remains of this remarkable structure.

Next Month: Problems in Paradise Cynthia is a teacher-on-call for the Cowichan Valley School District and an amateur folk musician.

You can see her video at www.cynthiemontgomery.com.

Image; The Maple Inn, c.1940, courtesy Cowichan Valley Museum & Archives

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friends and role models for my entire family.

Building the Bridge

In 1980, my mother announced that she and my father were getting married. Elinor and Eveline did not know much about the different cultures they were about to be exposed to.

However, throughout the years they have taught one another about their cultures and how much it means to them. From sharing the language of Hul’qui’minum to Sundays at church they have discovered that no matter what colour one’s skin is - or what cultural background one was raised in, love is key.

ne question I am asked very often is, ‘How do we build this bridge?’ ‘How will we know when the bridge is complete?’ I may not have the answer but I have two women that have showed me how they created a friendship,

My parents have now been married for 29 years and those 29 years together do not just represent a union of two people but a union of two cultures. This family would not work as well if it was not for the love of the two women

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a loving bond, a ‘bridge’ of their own.

My grandmothers are the most amazing women I have ever met and though they come from two very different worlds, they have become

Folk Guild Begins Membership Drive Cowichan Folk Guild www.folkfest.bc.ca 250.748.3975 Annual Membership $40 Family Membership $55

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he Cowichan Folk Guild (CFG) is holding a membership drive during February and March. We are asking all our current members to renew their membership and help ‘sign up a friend’ during this program.

The person who signs up the most new members will win two tickets to the 2011 Islands Folk Festival in July.

A Guild membership is only $40 per year for an individual or $55 for an entire family. Benefits include free or reduced admission to all

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folk guild events, (over 30 per year) including, coffee houses, chapel concerts, youth Jammers events, our new house concert series and many more. Membership also entitles you to very special early bird pricing on annual Folk Fest tickets; almost a 50% saving off the Festival gate price, plus reduced pricing on many Cowichan Theatre performances too.

Probably the best benefit of membership is socializing with people who share similar interests and value the joy live music brings to their lives. The CFG is also very involved with other community groups. Last year we helped over thirty of them with fundraising or provid-

ing volunteers, equipment or sponsorships.

We’re growing and we would be happy to welcome you aboard. Contact any member to join or phone the folk guild office at Providence Farm for more information.

We look forward to another exciting year of bringing the best of music and community together.

Come on out and join us!

who raised their children to love all of God’s people.

These women are not just grandmothers to me; they are an example of hope for all humankind. Despite being born into two different cultures they have become best friends and have shown that one can build a bridge, even if once they were told it would be impossible.

They have helped build a bridge to combine cultures and create one family. They have showed me nothing is impossible and I thank them for that.

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

Image Kevin Oke

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

Meditation in Movement

OFF THE GRID resolve to be greener nected”- its hard to remember that when we first moved here we had no phone at all.

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hether in a class, on a dance floor or in your living room, dance can offer absolute joy and gifts on many levels. In a society that is based on the mind, most of us experience excessive thoughts and find ourselves ruled by the head. We often find ourselves with sore necks and shoulders as a result of having to hold up such busy minds! Our bodies can get locked into patterns of movement controlled by the mind and suppressed emotions.

There is a longing shake it up and be free of it all.

Surrendering into ecstatic dance gives the head a chance to share all of that vital energy with the body, as in all forms of exercise. What is different about ecstatic dance is that the movement is a free flow where the body takes the lead. It’s an opportunity to anchor into the potency of being fully present in the body.

Once I let go in the dance (which can take a while sometimes!), I feel the complete joy and bliss of surrendering my body into unconventional and free movement. With the support of breath and devoting the movement to an intention, the dance turns into a journey into the wisdom of

the body. I will often devote my dance to a personal life lesson, loved one, the good of all life or specific world/ collective issues that could use some attention. People have been using dance as prayer, meditation, trance, or to journey since the beginning of time.

The heat that builds during a dance supports purifying the body, mind and spirit. It strengthens the body, nourishes the joints and promotes openness and flexibility of mind and body. Free flow dance supports releasing suppressed emotions and opens the heart and spirit to the joy of liberation. Even if you are “not a dancer” you can benefit from free flow movement.

If there is some resistance, try this: When nobody is watching turn up your favourite music and just start moving.

Let your body guide the way and see what happens. Let your inner child out to play!

You might really enjoy it.

Living room dancers unite!

Christy Lindell offers Transformational Massage, Bodywork, Hatha Yoga, Ecstatic and Kundalini Dance in the beautiful Cowichan Valley. reflectionsholisticretreat. com

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friend returning from Jamaica tells us that in response to the usual greeting “How are you”?

Jamaicans reply

“I am blessed”.

In a country known for much poverty and crime the mindset of the ordinary people is obviously to count their blessings. With that in mind I am determindly going to ignore the cold, rain and burst pipes and looking back, remember some of the things I have been grateful for this past year in Sansum Narrows.

Dry wood in abundance which fuels the woodstove which provides warmth and the means to cook. A well stocked pantry, thus avoiding being on the ocean when it is stormy. The technology that allows the sun’s energy to store power in our batteries to light the Xmas lights and gives us television on long dark winter nights. The LED and curly (compact fluorescent) light bulbs that give us hours more light than previously. That “stick” which plugs into our laptop and has finally brought the internet to our remote location. My wonderful Blackberry cell phone which keeps me “con-

I am thankful to Pat at Birds Eye Cove Gas dock for providing the boat fuel and help to keep me mobile, and Maple Bay Marina Market and Shipyard Restaurant for good food and emergency groceries. Mostly I am thankful for the wonderful women of Sansum Narrows.

What would I do without your love and support as together we cope with dead batteries, non functioning bilge pumps, wind storms and fallen trees?

As our focus shifts to the year ahead Aubrey and I are resolving to stop talking and DO something about supplementing our hot water with solar power and reducing our dependence on propane.

We will try to grow more of our own fruits and vegetables and take time when shopping to buy more local products.

Another New Year resolution is to say goodbye to bottled water and use only our own filtered and treated water.

Our biggest change however is hopefully to stop buying “stuff” and re-use, recycle and repair what we already own. This year I am personally resolved to taking more time out in the day to enjoy the peace and beauty of this amazing part of the world.

Happy New Year everyone.

We are all so blessed.

Joan and Aubrey Cobham are the parents of 7 and grandparents of 3. They live in their “off the grid” cabin in the Sansum Narrows

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New Year, New Beginning

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his is the time of year for rekindling new hopes, dreams and aspiration. It’s a time of majestic hopes, lifted idealism and noble intentions. We seek to know the source of All in our daily lives: the purr of a kitten, snow on the mountains, the ring of wind chimes in the night. When we can strip away the cloaks of self-identity, then we can know directly the great unifying force that binds all beings. Our lives are a moonscape of meaninglessness unless we are actively engaged in our own unique process of enlightenment. Because we are embodied individuals, this knowledge can only be fleeting for most of us, although there are saints and Bodhisattvas who claim to live in this state of boundless joy without interruption. All work, all relationships and spiritual practices have the intention of developing the capacity to hold this awareness. Spirituality is simply Julia Star is a counsellor in the Cowichan Valley. For appointments observing, intimately, what is in front of you, in the mocall 250-709-9673. ment. Only in that congruity is there magic.

Try This:

1) Write out a spiritual intention for yourself in the next year. E.g. This year I will be more aware of the inter-connectiveness of all sentience.

Place this intention in a private place: behind a mirror, in your journal or hidden in your home.

2) Write out a spiritual intention and give it to someone as a gift. E.g. May you realize all your dreams this year. This could be simply phoning a friend and wishing them joy and happiness in the New Year, a card with a wish for their wellbeing, or a note attached to a present.

3) Write out a spiritual intention and give it to the world. E.g. May all beings be happy. You may want to write in on a sandy beach at low tide, on a paper flag that you burn, or on a leaf that you release into a stream or ocean.

This ritual of wisdom will set up your interconnecting lines of energy to be receptive to all beneficent influences from the Three Worlds: ail:drfeiyang@gmail.com • Now accepting new patients individual, social and universal.

Joy in the Journey!

• Inquire about the Spring Cleanse program

Aromatherapy for Your Future

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

Dr. Fei Yang Dr TCM, Reg. AC

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

Traditional Chinese Medicine 250.733.2917

with Dr. Fei Yang

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he true founders of aromatherapy were the early Egyptian civilizations.

Though technologically advanced, these practised embalmers had very simple means for obtaining their oils. Plant materials were placed in large vats of vegetable oil or animal fats and left in the sun for several weeks. This basic method of capturing the plant’s essence is how the Egyptians began using aromatherapy.

Aromatherapy is defined as the use of aromatic plants to facilitate healing by enhancing psychological and physical well-being. The heart and soul of a plant is the “essence” of the plant. The essence of the plant carries the properties necessary to create a healing reaction whether it is the mind, body or spirit. A very easy way to experience the essence of a plant is to run your fingers through lavender, rosemary or basil and hold your fingers up to your nose.

The oil extracted from the plant is composed of many chemical constituents, which assist with physical well being. For an aromatherapist, working with essential oils is both a science and an art. The science is knowing which essential oils will produce a desired effect such as anti-inflammatory, diuretic, stimulating, etc. The art is being able to distinguish between pure essential oils and essentials oils that have been diluted or adulterated. Intuition also plays a role when Continued on page 34

New Year Cleaning?

Start With Your Body!

Excess Acid Waste in the Body

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o maintain good health, the body is constantly trying to get rid of the excess acids that irritate the tissues and deplete them of minerals....By testing your pH (potential of Hydrogen) levels using pH test strips with saliva or urine, you can tell where you are at, 7.0-7.5 is optimal. An imbalanced diet high in acidic-producing foods such as animal protein, sugar, pop, caffeine, cigarettes, alcohol, and processed foods puts pressure on the body’s regulating systems to maintain pH neutrality. This can deplete the body of alkaline minerals such as sodium, potassium, magnesium, and calcium, making the person prone to chronic and degenerative disease. It is important to remove acid waste and heavy metals out of the body There is a link between the quality of food and water we choose and it’s effects on our bodies.When a body is too acid, it can become a perfect environment for harmful viruses and bacteria. If these viruses and bacteria begin to flourish, they mutate and grow, causing more serious illness and disease. Optimal health requires a slightly “alkaline” body.

Julia Star BHD.BEd

Spiritual Counsellor

Minerals are then borrowed from vital organs and bones to buffer (neutralize) the acid safely remove it from the body. This can strain the body and go undetected for years. Acidosis, an extended time in the acid pH state, can result in rheumatoid arthritis, diabetes, lupus, gout, tuberculosis, osteoporosis, high blood pressure, most cancers and many more debilitating diseases. Research shows that unless the body’s pH level is slightly alkaline, the body can not heal itself. Eating alkaline foods, fruits and vegetables, drinking green drinks, fresh alkaline water, getting Debbie Shuratoff - Reiki regular exercise can Master-Teacher, Foot Spa keep you in a healthy Detox Practitioner, Natural balanced state. A Health Consultant. cleanse will help to rid www.reikiwellness.ca the body of acid waste as well.

Working with the Whole Person Future Lives, Past Lives, Life’s Purpose and Destiny, Soul Attunement

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

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

functional & sculptural ceramics • Tofino

for studio appointments • www.danielapetosa.com • ceramics@danielapetosa.com • 250 266 0056 29

What’s Wrong With Me?

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id you know that there are literally thousands of named diseases, syndromes and conditions in modern medical practice? Even with all the diagnostic tools available, it can be very challenging to get a diagnosis on symptoms once the usual suspects have been ruled out. And sometimes a diagnosis doesn’t change much anyway.

Knowing you “have fibromyalgia,” for example, doesn’t give your doctor much to work with.

Sometimes the uncertainty of not finding out “what’s wrong with you” can be very frightening. On the other hand, having a name and a prognosis (a probable outcome) for your symptoms may leave you feeling powerless and prevent you from taking an

active role in your own health!

When I work with people dealing with mysterious or complex conditions, I work phenomenologically. This means I work with your symptoms, as you experience them, rather than giving them a name. I work with what you are experiencing, more than with what you “have.”

Chinese medicine gives me great guidance on how to work with unusual or multiple symptoms.

Itchy, cramping legs at night; unusual sweating; a craving for sweets, for example – they all can be understood within a comprehensive system that guides me on my acupuncture and herbal choices.

Guided mindfulness is usually extremely helpful – mysterious or complex symptoms are bound to stir up much more in

H

the psyche than we may even know. Unacknowledged or unresolved feelings can compound suffering tremendously.

Complex conditions don’t usually come about out of the blue (although they can) and may sometimes take a concerted effort on both the client’s part and mine to shift. Yet it’s always worth making the effort, as any movement towards becoming healthier lays a stronger groundwork and supports the body to do what it already knows how to do.

Tobi Panter has a natural health care practice in Maple Bay and with mobile services. Visit Hummingbird Holistic Healing at www.humholheal.com

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s l

E s i g a p p b g b

Image by Jo

Ayurvedic Winter Health • N a m a s t e

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anuary is here, and with it comes the hope of sunlight, warmth and spring, yet we will still experience the energy of winter for a few more months.

Winter in Ayurveda is thought of as the Vata time, a time of coolness, dryness, and darkness,

where the energy of space, and wind dominate our being.

This can manifest in many ways in both the physical and mental body, whether it be dry rough skin, the sniffles, or a seasonal feeling of depression and discontent. In this natural cold and dry period how can we create balance in our being?

A great way to balance Vata in our lives is by creating a daily routine. Nothing too restrictive – as simple as eating warm, nourishing meals at regular times, sitting down while eating, and of course with the dark nights, going to bed earlier- so that our bodies can slumber in deep sleep. If possible try to go

to bed by 10 pm, or make an intention to shut the computer and the TV off by this time, (our natural rhythms are slowing down and wanting to relax and rejuvenate without the extra energy from electronics).

Yoga is always helpful, try a restorative practice- holding the asana’s for longer, breathing deep, and rooting into them.

Meditation is also a great practice for grounding and connecting with your being.

Even 20 minutes a day can give a huge benefit (for beginners, there is nothing wrong with 5 minutes – anything is better than nothing).

Winter is naturally a time when things slow down, a time for grounding and going inwards.

Allowing ourselves time to do the things that create peace and quiet, will be a huge help to calming our nervous system, helping to bring the vata energy into balance. Taking rest now, will give us more energy as the days start to lengthen, and as the warmth and brightness of springtime arises.

Asrael is an Internationally Trained Ayurvedic Practitioner, Healer, and Yoga Teacher. Her wish is to live from the heart and to help others shine into their true spirit www.anandaayurveda.wordpress.com

F a m t t

H s a i l b h s

N H s a

F O c a p b fl

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Helpful Garden Blooming Good Time!

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id-winter isn’t most perennial plants’ favourite season. Unless you’re a Hellebore, that is.

Every Cowicha Valley garden should have some of these invaluable, deer-proof, evergreen plants. Hellebores have a reverse season from other perennials: in fall they begin producing new leaves and buds. By mid-winter they’re growing rapidly and are in full bloom by late winter.

Flowers persist through spring and fade when seed heads mature. Hellebores go dormant through summer, waiting for the cool moisture of autumn.

Hellebores come in several species and numerous cultivars and hybrids. Earliest blooming is the Christmas Rose (Helleborus Niger), which may bloom from December on. It has tough, leathery leaves and soft white flowers.

Next to bloom is Corsican Hellebore, which has stiff, spiny leaves and sprays of pale apple green to white flowers.

From February through May, Oriental hybrid varieties take centre stage. These come in a huge range of colours from pale pink and green to almost black, in single and double flowers.

My favourite hybrid is “Ivory

Prince.” It has silver-tinged foliage and multi-hued flowers of chartreuse, pink and white in profusion. My one clump last year had hundreds of flowers over a four-month season.

Many people remove the foliage when plants begin blooming to expose the flowers more. I leave mine alone and only remove dead or damaged leaves.

Hellebores are shade-loving woodland plants but will tolerate moderate sun if given ample water.

They dislike being divided, so if you want to propagate them do this instead: leave some flower heads on the plant and allow the seedpods to mature and self scatter. Dig these volunteers up after two years and replant elsewhere. They’ll take a few years to really make a show but they’re worth the wait.

Newsroom: 748-1500 On Air/ Contest Line: 746-4897 Advertising Sales: 746-0897 Email: onair@897sunfm.com www.897sunfm.com

Check with your local garden centre for availability beginning in January. Hellebores are increasingly popular and you’ll be able to choose from numerous varieties.

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

www.cowichandale.com 31

New Year’s Resolutions Can you KEEP IT UP for the rest of your life?

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anuary rolls around and we’re all a’moanin’ looking for the quick fix to get back on track for the New Year. We swarm into the health food stores looking for the latest cleanse or diet pill.

But what we really need this time of year is to keep warm, eat warm nourishing foods, get lots of sleep and suitable exercise, and treat ourselves tenderly. If you’ve made some hardcore, unrealistic resolutions I give you permission now to revise them.

Keep in mind that if a diet or an exercise regime is not something that you can do for

the rest of your life, it will not stick. Even if you lose weight by doing something that isn’t sustainable, statistics show you will likely gain it back,

plus extra.

Just like bears, it’s still hibernation time for us. It’s time to keep building up the

Beware!

Not all fish oils are created equal.

Heavy metals, oils that are overly processed, rancid oils and unsustainable fishing practices are all things to watch out for when shopping for your Omega 3 sources. Barlenes, New Chapters, Nordic Naturals, Ascenta Health and Garden of Life are all reputable brands for your fish oil choices. Ascenta Health has come out with a new Omega 3 product obtained from squid! This is good news as we all know the ocean’s fish stocks are in dire straights. Ascenta has also come out with a unique Vegetarian Omega 3 called NutraVege.

The DHA is sourced from algae (which is what fish eat to be a DHA source in the first place!) and the rest of the omega 3 and GLA come from a common plant called Echium, far superior to that found in flax oil. Barlenes has a very palatable line of oils called “Omega Swirl” that is emulsified so easier to digest and loved by kids (who also need extra Omega 3 fatty acids for brain development and cognitive function).

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body with warming foods that fortify our bodies and spirits, helping us to stay healthy and strong in the cold, damp weather. Once it starts to warm up outside and the sprouts emerge then it’s healthier to eat more salads and detoxifying foods that will help you to lose weight (if you need to). Eating with the seasons, as nature intended, is a fundamentally sane way to stay healthy all year.

This time of year, along with your complex whole food carbohydrates and healthy protein sources, make sure you’re getting enough “healthy fats” to keep the body trim and inflammationfree. It’s of popular opinion that we are eating too much Omega 6 oils. They’re in everything in “modern” food, including nuts, grains

Join Cindy at Affinity Guest House January 16th For a different cooking class, 1-3pm

“Let your Food be your Medicine – ESPECIALLY after the Holidays!

For more information e-mail: thecommunityfarmstore@shaw.ca or phone 250-715-7743

and seeds, nut and seed and soy oils as well as all of the prepared foods that contain those oils. Omega 6 oil overabundance can create silent inflammation which leads to many maladies including cardiovascular disease, arthritic conditions and low immune function.

Enter Omega 3 fatty acids.

Omega 3 fatty acids are

reported to be healing pretty much anything that ails you these days. It’s even been predicted that enough omega 3 oils with a lower glycemic index diet may reverse Alzheimer’s disease!

Increased cognitive function, better skin, healthy eyes, fewer allergies, improved sleep, hormonal and heart health and increased libido are some of the benefits you can expect with increased Omega 3 consumption.

Savoury Tahini Hemp Sauce Prep time: 5 minutes Ingredients

Yield: 1 cup Amount

tahini hemp seed butter water

lemon juice tamari maple syrup (or raw honey garlic cayenne

1/4 cup each 1/4 cup each 1/4 cup 3 tablespoons 2 tablespoons 2 tablespoons 1 tablespoon) 2 cloves, minced pinch (to your taste)

*optional: chopped fresh basil, cilantro or parsley

2 tablespoons

Directions: Add all (except fresh herbs) together in food processor: blend until smooth. Move to bowl and stir in fresh herbs (if using). Serve over grains, steamed veggies or greens.

Note: tahini sauce keeps refrigerated for up to one week.

You can find Cindy Dreger at the Community Farm Store at the Duncan Garage where she is the grocery buyer. She’s also a Nutritional Coach, studying with Integrative Nutrition and has taught yoga in the Cowichan Valley for 9 years. More info at www.health-results.com

Interesting Fact: A study showed that eggs from free-range chickens which ate grass, insects, and a very small amount of grain contained twenty times more omega-3 fatty acids than did standard supermarket eggs (which are fed an omega 6 rich diet of mainly grain.) The same goes for meat and dairy products. The animals eat as nature intended, an omega 3 rich diet, the meat and animal product are also rich in Omega 3 fatty acids!

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

Crowder’s Corner

In our day-to-day lives many of us use various forms of technology, from which we derive immense benefit. At the touch of a screen or the click of a button we can make a phone call, access the internet or listen to music. What most people may not know is that with every electronic device that we purchase, be it an iPod, Blackberry or computer, we support sexual violence and human rights violations in Africa. These devices are manufactured using the conflict minerals tungsten, tin, tantalum and gold. Although we cannot see these minerals when we make a phone call or download a song, they are a key part of such actions. For example, tungsten is used to make your mobile phone vibrate.

In the Democratic Republic of the Congo and surrounding African nations, armed groups control the areas where these minerals are mined. These conflict minerals are then smuggled out of Africa to eventually create the devices we use. An insatiable consumer desire for these products is financing wars in the region, wars which are fought with child soldiers, fear and rape. Armed groups use the profits from mining to purchase weapons and extend their control over other mines and communities.

In September, 2010 the NDP introduced Bill C-571, the Trade in Conflict Minerals Act. The Act would create a mechanism for Canadian companies to ensure they are purchasing conflict-free minerals. Similar legislation has already been passed in the United States. However, the best way to halt trade in conflict minerals is for consumers to demand companies create conflict-free technology. Next time your phone vibrates, consider the issues and take action against conflict minerals.

For more information: http://www.enoughproject.org/ www.ndp.ca http://openparliament.ca/bills/2316/ Aromatherapy Continued from page 28

combining essential oils as not only is the body affected, so is the mind and spirit. A qualified aromatherapist can blend essential oils as a holistic method of healing to not only heal all major body systems, but also to heal the mind and the spirit. “Balancing” the whole is the desired outcome.

Releasing the past and stepping into the present can be achieved through the use of several specific essential oils. The essential oil of Frankincense has grounding properties for staying focused in the present as well as stimulates and elevates the mind. Spruce will help to ground and balance emotions when applied to the solar plexus – the area of our body where we receive our “gut instincts” that signals us to do or not do something. The sweet yet exotic scent of Ylang Ylang is very calming, uplifting and relaxing. These essential oils can be diffused into your living space, a few drops placed into a bath or blended with a carrier oil and used on the Tracy Scheck- Certified Foot Reflexologist, skin. *A qualified aromatherapist Aromatherapist, Norwex should be consulted before applyConsultant 250-5971540 or cleanliving2ing any essential oils to the skin. day@hotmail.com

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Feng Shui-ing Through Life

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n the last few months I have been taking an inspired course taught by Denise Linn on becoming a dream coach.

The course mainly helps people interpret and define the meaning of their own dreams. The world we embark on long into the night hours can be so profound in our daily lives and on the lives of the people we know … and on those we don’t know. One of the things I’ve learned about Feng Shui, is that it can help you enhance and remember your dreams.

Much healing can be done at dream time, which means any help we can get from Feng Shui in the bedroom is a blessing.

Taking note that if it makes you feel good, then keep it. If it doesn’t sit right with you, then don’t take it on.

Here are a few different areas where Feng Shui can assist you in your bedroom and, in return, greatly affect your dreams: Colour: Skin tones are soft and nurturing. Reds can be over activating. Blues can be relaxing but also cooling.

Headboards: It is a good idea to have a solid headboard behind you or your bed pushed up against a wall. This provides a sense of grounding and stability.

Art: This is very important as paintings and photographs can influence us greatly. These should make us feel empowered, strong, and generally happy.

Night tables, doors and windows, smells, sounds, beams, air quality, and ensuite bathrooms are all things to take note of in enhancing our sacred space.

Sweet dreams!

Jenn de Valk, mother of three, is a graduate of Denise Linn’s Soul Coaching Training and Instinctive Feng Shui intensive program.

Jenn is an attentive teacher and a lifelong student. www.twobees.ca

Moon Fasting spiritual practices known.

Energy levels are deemed lowest during a New Moon, making it a good day to fast on lemon and water keeping energy stores in check.

Moonbeams Happy New Year!

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ut with the old and in with the new once again. What a great time to do a fast, especially after a season known for excess and indulgences!

Upvas”, which in Sanskrit means “sitting near”.

“Sitting near” the foot of God, Source or Higher Power (insert your resonated term here). There are numerous legends of sages and saints who embarked on fasting and solitude to achieve enlightenment. We too can become clearer physically and mentally by fasting.

Fasting ignites Agni (digestive fire) clearing away stored toxins normally are distracted by food consumption and digestion. Fasting is a known benefit to health but to view it as a “diet” is a great disservice to one of the oldest and most sacred

On the 11th day of the moon cycle we are said to be most balanced, eating lightly (green) or having water and lemon brings perfect health.

Full Moons naturally accelerate our highest energy level and maximum secretions in the body are occurring.

Use a liquid diet at this time conserve energy required for spiritual growth.

Fasting is meant to be a time of great reverence and reflection. But, there are those who may find it uncomfortable with bouts chills, weakness and nausea as built up toxins stir. If an urge to eat arises, try a boiled nut or organic milk (to a foam) with a pinch of ground turmeric, black pepper, cinnamon stick, or a few pinches of ginger.

Fasting does have cumulative effects and the more often you do it, the more you will notice its positive effects!

Robin Massey is a yoga instructor who guides a Full Moon Gathering for Women on the eve of each Full Moon. www.theomtree.com

WEBSITES, EMAILS AND VERBAL LINT I asked several unsuspecting members of our Cowichan Valley community for their New Year’s resolutions/wishes for 2011. Here is what they wrote …

PIPI TUSTIAN: “My New Year’s resolution is to move beyond safe boundaries, taking more chances creatively & living this year to its fullest.”

Ms. Tustian describes herself as “mother, wife, sister and friend … a prolific painter, list maker … always in search of pure happiness.”

ROBERT McCOURTY: “My New Year’s resolution is to double the membership of Cowichan Folk Guild in 2011… then double it again in 2012!

We really want to raise our community profile in 2011 so we’ll be reaching out to other community groups and supporting their programs as well as our own.” Robert is a musician (Flying Accusations) and artistic coordinator of Cowichan Folk Guild. “Music is my passion and my profession. I guess I’m lucky to do something I love.”

ASHLEY KENNEWELL: “ ... to keep smiling and serving great coffee!” Ashley is chief barista at The Twisted Mug in downtown Duncan. “Owning a coffee shop has its perks, like meeting so many great and interesting people.”

CHRISTY LINDELL: “My 2011 intentions involve anchoring into the potent wisdom of the planetary shifts and devoting this year to opening my heart for all beings and radiating love into the world. I feel it’s really important to bring the focus from the mind into heart wisdom this year.” Christy offers transformational massage, holistic bodywork, yoga & Kundalini Dance in the Cowichan Valley. For more info go to www. reflectionsholisticretreat.com BROCK McLEOD & HEATHER WALKER: “We’re opening Makaria Farm Market this year. We like the idea of being open 7 days a week, with regular hours, to make it super easy for everyone to access our yummy food. We’ll have a big grand opening to get the party started.” 2011 marks Brock and Heather’s fourth season of growing organic, tasty vegetables at Makaria Farm. Check out their new website: www.makariafarm.com LONGEVITY JOHN FALKNER: “ ... to continue to have fun for myself and to bring even more fun to the community (but I was going to do that anyway).” Mr. Falkner is, and I quote, “owner/ operator/janitor of Duncan Garage Showroom who believes if you are treading on thin ice you might as well dance.”

By Rick Dennis

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Writers’ Voice

On-lineAuthor Competition Captures Local Attention

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here’s an interesting and exciting competition now taking place over the internet called the “Next Top Self-Help Author” that captured the creative eyes and author passions of Diana and David Pink of Cobble Hill.

Chris Attwood and Janet Bray Attwood, authors of the New York Times best seller The Passion Test, have partnered with Robert Evans, founder of The Messenger Network and Randy Davila of Conari Press, publishers of self-help books for over 30 years to create the perfect combination of education and action through a special contest. The contest is in two parts: the course and the competition. The course is a total of 6 months and offers priceless education from top trainers, authors, publishers, agents, editors and marketers.

These talented folks provide training on how to get the message out including a video pitch and building a platform of people to support the book.

During the Competition training, there’s valuable information about writing a book proposal, outline and sample chapter, using technology trends to sell

Tubers Judith Belton

more books, and working with editors. It’s all done on-line and so it’s a virtual connection with fellow authors and trainers, connecting us all together using technology.

The contest is split into 4 rounds, and authors who are chosen will advance from one round to the next until the winner is announced. The winner of the Next Top Self-Help Author contest receives a book contract from Conari Press!

Diana and David Pink have each talked about writing a book for many years, and so they’ve entered the competition and are on track to release their individual video pitches by February 1, 2011 at the end of the first round of training.

Log on to www.nexttopselfhelpauthor. com for more information and to vote for Diana and David’s efforts after February 1st.

Good luck Diana and David Pink!

Meditation On Sunday Morning

Sunday-gardener-procrastination leads to this: hard, rubber-booted slog through sudden snow, ice leaking in at coat sleeve edges, west-coast-silver jewelling, brown and grey threads of Cowichan hat.

In the dahlia patch, where strong-stalked, green-leafed plants last week gave up blooms by the armful for the warm kitchen table but now are bowed, remote white shrouds, only the labeled stakes showing the way to the hearts.

Blind, probing shovels-full bring up ink soil and sand, the fresh, nearly-forgotten whiff of bruised vegetation and, if the mark is right, inscrutable shapes as undistinguished as potatoes.

But hot they are, with possibility and their Aztec pedigrees.

The names of some of the rescued – Arabian Nights, Caballero, Heat Wave, Seduction spark and reward.

The few, still-legible descriptions – ‘large, burst of lemon’, ‘intense yellow flame’,

‘salmon bronze’, ‘blood red’ entice and fuel the tardy, chilled digging. wv

WV Editor: John Steven

Submissions may be sent to Writers.Voice@shaw.ca

Calming the Mind and Developing Loving Kindness Buddhism with a Western Flavour

11:00 to 12:30

1555 Longwood Road, Cowichan Bay Call (250) 709-9673 Photo Margaret de Weese

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

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

Aries (March 21-April 19)

This month you’ll get an unusual amount of publicity for want of a better word.

Parents, teachers, bosses and VIPs will notice you more than usual. (Incidentally, this includes the police.) But the good news is what they notice is wonderful!

(This part might not include the police.)

The fabulous lighting of the Sun at high noon in your chart makes you look like a winner! You appear confident, capable and dare we say, heroic. Not only do you look good, you’ve got tons of energy to back it up. You’re not just another pretty face. You’re PowerPoint on steroids!

Taurus (April 20-May 20)

You yearn to get away from all this.

(Flee!) You need a change of scenery, preferably sunny beaches, wavy palm trees and white sands. The service will be superb, the wine, perfect and they’ll serve champagne scampi at lunch. Hey -- you can escape. Just choose what’s available. Change your routine. Be a tourist in your own city.

Go places you’ve never been to before.

Visit museums, art galleries, libraries, antique stores and ethnic restaurants.

Not only will variety offer you rewards and gratification, you can explore opportunities in publishing, the media, medicine, and the law.

Gemini (May 21-June 20)

Your life has an intense quality this month. This could mean wild, passionate, crazy sex. Or it could wild,

passionate, crazy arguments about shared property or who owns what. (“I had that before I met you!”) Ironically, with fair Venus opposite your sign now, relations with partners and close friends are coochy-coo. But disputes about shared property are also likely. And you won’t back down. You’ll be fierce about defending what you think is yours or what should be yours. Nevertheless, this same fierce energy amps your sex drive as well. An interesting month!

Cancer (June 21-July 22)

You need more rest. And you know it.

This is because the Sun is now as far away from your sign as it gets all year, and the Sun is your source of energy. In addition, with fiery Mars also opposing you, tension with partners easily flares up largely because you are too quickly impatient. (Moi? Yes, you.) But hey, things at work are great. In fact, a romance that is work related could suddenly blossom. Many will get a raise or praise, or perhaps, where you work will be “spruced up”. Surprise travel plans are likely.

Leo (July 23-Aug. 22)

You’re gung ho to get super organized for the next six weeks. You want to feel like you’re on top of your scene. You want everything in its place. In part, this is because of the social demands of the season -- after all, a Leo home is a Leo castle. But also, when everything is squared away, you feel mentally calmer and stronger. When your life is organized, you can face the world standing taller -- especially with sexy new shoes.

(Love those red soles! Are those Louboutin$?) You’ll accomplish your purpose in the next month because fiery Mars is ready to help you delegate.

Virgo (Aug. 23-Sept. 22)

Oo la la! Zees is zee time for loff!

Romance and love affairs are hot this month. Existing relationships can also heat up. Singles might meet the love of

their life. Some of these introductions will be through a family connection.

Not only are relationships warm and cozy now relationships within the family are similarly very affectionate. The next month is a wonderful time to entertain at home. It’s also a great time for real estate deals or to shop for your home to enrich it and make it look more attractive.

Libra (Sept. 23-Oct. 22)

This month brings a strong emphasis on home, family, and your private life.

Interaction with relatives and parents will be significant. Increased activity and chaos on the home front will also test your patience! Quite likely, this is due to visiting guests, but it is also perhaps, due to renovations and repairs. Consider this an opportunity to demonstrate that Libran grace under pressure. This is a great time to boost your income through writing, selling, talking, teaching, editing, and acting.

You are silver tongued!

Scorpio (Oct. 23-Nov. 21)

Busy you! Many of you are taking short trips, buying and selling, wheeling and dealing, doing negotiations, writing, studying, and running around talking to everyone. But you love the hustle! Fiery Mars, the planet that rules ego, aggression, assertiveness, (and your muscles) now hypes all your communications.

You are fearless! This month, you can sell, market, write, teach, act, and promote with zeal. When you see the hair blowing back over other people’s ears, you might want to lighten up a little.

Sagittarius(Nov.22-Dec.21)

“Show me the money!” (Music to your ears.) This month your focus turns to money, earnings, cash flow and possible purchases. Why? Because you’re full of moneymaking ideas! Not only are you mentally geared to boost your earnings, you have the urge and ambition to do so because of fiery Mars.

Obstacle turn into challenges ready

to be overcome. In fact, you’ll take a swashbuckling approach to boosting earnings. It’s swag you deserve! “Won for all and all for won!”

Capricorn (Dec. 22-Jan. 19)

The Sun now joins Pluto and fiery Mars in your sign. What a lineup! This heightens your ambition, your aggressiveness, and your ability to express yourself to others. You’re coming on like gangbusters! In addition, the Sun will attract auspicious circumstances and important people to you. This means that just as all these opportunities present themselves to you – ah ha! -- you’re waiting at the door ready to pounce! You won’t miss a thing. Because this is a powerful and fortunate time for you, make the most of this! Make hay while the Sun shines.

Yeehaw!

Aquarius (Jan. 20-Feb. 18)

This is always the time of year where you have to pull in a little and take a back seat. You don’t have to do this in a big way, after all, you’re a net worker extraordinaire. But psychologically, you need to work behind the scenes or alone until the Sun comes out in your sign late in January. Then you will step up to centre stage to enjoy the applause. (“Thank ya vary maach.”) Many of you are hatching secret love affairs or private missions. Be careful about someone who might not have your best interests at heart. If you feel something fishy is going on -- it is!

Pisces (Feb. 19-March 20)

Your dance card is full! Many of you are joining clubs, groups, and organizations.

Your involvement with groups is physical and aggressive. This is a strong time for those of you who play professional sports. You’re prepared to fight for your objectives and goals. You’ll defend your beliefs. You’ll also defend anyone else if you choose to do so. Form working units with others because this is not the time to go it alone. Quite the opposite.

Your activity with others will ultimately benefit you. Accept all invitations. Enjoy schmoozing with others!

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