חג פסח שמח - Chag Pesach Same'ach

Passover, the Jewish religious observance commemorating the Isrealites' exodus from Egypt, begins at sunset tonight.  

I'm not Jewish and I can't claim a perfect understanding of Passover observances, but I do find the story, and the long tradition arising from it, inspirational:

At the end of the biblical book of Genesis, Joseph brought his family to Egypt.  They prospered there.  Over the following centuries the Hebrews (Joseph's descendants) became so numerous that eventually, when a new Egyptian king came power, he perceived the Hebrews as a threat.

The Egyptian king enslaved the Hebrews but, despite their enslavement, they continued to have many children.  The Hebrews' numbers continued to pose a threat, so the king ordered his soldiers to kill all newborn male babies borne by Hebrew mothers.

One of those babies, Moses, was saved from being killed by his mother and sister.  They wove a basket of reeds, placed him in the basket, and sent him floating down the river in the hope that whoever found him would take him in and raise him as their own.

Moses' sister Miriam followed him to be sure that he was safe. She hid in the reeds and watched as Moses was found by one of the king's daughters.  She took him home and raised him as her own. Thus it was that a Hebrew came to be a prince of Egypt.

Moses grew up in the royal household until he witnessed an Egyptian guard beating a Hebrew slave, and killed the guard. After killing the guard, he fled to the desert.

In the desert, Moses joined the family of Jethro (a Midian priest) by marrying Jethro's daughter and having children with her.  He worked as a shepherd, watching over Jethro's sheep.

While Moses was out in the wilderness watching over Jethro's sheep, God appeared to him in the form of a burning bush and told him that he had been chosen to lead the Hebrews out of Egypt.  

Moses returned to Egypt and demanded that the pharoh release the Hebrews from slavery. The king refused to free the Hebrews and, upon his refusal, God sent ten plagues to Egypt:

The waters were turned to blood.  All the fish died and the water was not useable.

Hoards of frogs swarmed over the land.

Huge numbers of gnats and lice infested Egyptian homes and tormented the Egyptian people.

Wild animals invaded the homes and lands of Egypt, destroying property and injuring people.

Egyptian livestock was struck down by disease.

Egyptian people were plagued by boils that covered their bodies and caused them great pain.

Hail storms destroyed crops.

Locusts swarmed across the landscape, destroying any remaining crops and food.

Darkness covered the land for three days.

The firstborn of every Egyptian family perished.  The firstborn of their livestock died too.

It is this last plague that gives Passover its name:  Hebrew children were spared from death because Hebrews marked their doorposts with lamb's blood.  The angel of death saw the marks and passed over those households, leaving them untouched.

After the tenth plague, the pharoh released the Hebrews.  They fled the land so quickly that they didn't even take the time to allow their bread to rise before baking it and taking it with them.  

Shortly after the Hebrews departed, the Egyptian king changed his mind about freeing them, and sent his soldiers after them. When the Hebrews reached the Sea of Reeds, God parted the waters so that they could cross.  Once they were safely on the other side, the waters closed again, drowning the Egyptian soldiers and ending their pursuit.  

The Hebrews continued on their journey to the promised land. Modern Jews are descended from these ancient Hebrews and continue to commemorate their liberation from slavery, and to honour the beliefs of their ancestors.

Strict dietary rules are maintained throughout the eight days of the Passover observance.  Leavened breads are forbidden (as are many other foods) while some foods are specifically included in Passover meals, especially Seder, for their symbolism.  

Over the centuries, although they still conform to the traditions of the people who prepare, serve, and eat them, Passover dishes have evolved.  They now reflect the flavours, spices, and ingredients native to the many places, worldwide, where Jewish people celebrate this ancient and inspiring story.  

The dietary rules surrounding Passover have given rise to tremendous creativity in kitchens around the world.  Even if you don't celebrate Passover there's much to be found in cooking Passover dishes:  a wealth of flavour and texture, an opportunity to try out new cooking techniques and ingredients, and chance to gain a greater understanding of a rich tradition.

I'll be sharing Passover recipe links today, on my Facebook page and on Twitter.  I'm looking forward to trying them, and I hope you enjoy them too.

You can read more about Passover foods here.

What's Up? (A List of Events in Cowichan)

Cowichan is beautiful even in the rain!  March's mild temperatures are encouraging us to get out and about, enjoying the sights, even when the weather is wet.

Here's what's happening in our area this week.  

I'm always glad to hear more about what's happening in the Cowichan Valley.  If you have an event you'd like to add to the list, please email it to me at AuntBsCalendar@gmail.com *

Ongoing – Penny Drive fundraiser for MS Support Group.  Drop off your pennies at the MS Society office or at Market Palooza on Canada Ave, Duncan

Ongoing – Penny Drive fundraiser in support of four food banks, Wavaw, & The Salvation Army, News Leader Pictorial office, 2-5380 Trans Canada Highway, Duncan

Ongoing until April 12 – MS Walk fundraiser book and chocolate sale, Team ScotiaBank Striders, Bank of Nova Scotia, Duncan

Ongoing until April 12 – Escape Artists annual show “A Nature Walk,” Loft Gallery, Mill Bay

Ongoing until April 14 – Upper Island Music Festival. Info, http://www.nanaimomusicfestival.com

Ongoing until April 30 – Call for volunteers, Somenos Marsh Wildlife Society.  If you are interested in helping out, contact the society at 250-732-0462

March 15 – 17 (and Thursday to Sunday every week) 12:00 noon – 4:00 p.m. – Open house, Cowichan Estuary Nature Center, Cowichan Bay.  Admission by donation.

March 15 – 17 – Fire and Bones boys’ weekend, hosted by West Coast Men’s Support Society, Shawnigan Lake.  Info, 250-597-2801

March 15 – 21 – Spring Family Celebrations at Merridale Ciderworks.  Info, http://www.merridalecider.com/events?utm_source=Members+Edition+Chamber+eNews+Mar.+1%2F13&utm_campaign=Mar.

March 15, 1:00 p.m. – Gary Eugene, Music in the Cowichan Library

March 15, 2:00 – 8:00 p.m. – Chamber of Commerce Home, Garden, and Business Show, Aggie Hall, 1110 First Ave, Ladysmith

March 15, 6:00 – 9:00 p.m. – Auditions for “Urinetown, the Musical,” Mercury Theater.  Please prepare a 30 second monologue, 16 bars of a Broadway song, and come dressed to move.  All ages and ability levels welcome.

March 15, 6:30 – 8:30 p.m. – Lake Cowichan Secondary School grad fashion show.  All proceeds to Mark Knippelberg, who is raising funds prior to undergoing brain surgery.

March 15, 7:30 p.m. – “Resonance,” a documentary on the dangers of cel phone towers, the Hub, 2375 Koksilah Rd.

March 15, 8:00 p.m. – Hobsons Choice contemporary jazz quartet, Duncan Garage Showroom

March 16 – 17 – Orca  Invitational Gymnastics Competition. Info, 250-746-0193 or www.ddgc.ca

March 16 – March 21 – Pacific Rim Whale Festival, Uclulet and Tofino, BC.  Info, www.pacificrimwhalefestival.com

March 16 , 1:30 – 4:30 p.m. – Free photography workshop for teens, with Phil Walmsley.  Bring a camera. Registration required, 250-746-7661

March 16, 8:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. – Shawnigan Lake Community Center Commission first annual garage sale, Shawnigan Lake Community Center, 2804 Shawnigan Lake Rd.

March 16, 9:00 a.m. – Live at the Opera in HD, broadcast live from New York, “Francesca di Rimini.”  Info, www.cowichantheatre.bc.ca

March 16, 9:30 – 11:00 a.m. – Pancake Breakfast, $5.00, Chemainus Seniors Drop In Center.

March 16, 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. – Chamber of Commerce Home, Garden, and Business Show, Aggie Hall, 1110 First Ave, Ladysmith

March 16, 5:00 p.m. – Chemainus Seniors Drop In Center birthday party potluck

March 16, 6:30 – 7:55 p.m. – Pirate Swim, Frank Jameson Community Center, Ladysmith

March 16, 8:00 p.m. – Ed Peekeekoot, singer, Duncan Garage Showroom

March 16, 8:00 p.m. – Comics Matt Billon and Brett Martin, Crofton Hotel

March 17, 2:00 p.m. – Cari Burdett (mezzo soprano) solo voice concert, with Leah Hokanson on piano, celebrating Britten’s 100^th anniversary with his song cycle “The Charm of Lullabies,” St. Michael and all Angels Anglican Church, 2858 Mill St., Chemainus

March 17, 2:00 – 5:00 p.m. – Jazz with the Martys, Crofton Hotel

March 17, 2:30 p.m. – Krzystof Jablonski, An Afternoon of Chopin, Port Theatre, Nanaimo

March 17, 2:30 p.m. – 1:00 a.m. – Candy Crushers Junior Roller Derby team in the SlamRock Open Junior Scrimmage, Cowichan Exhibition Grounds

March 17, 3:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. – Open house party to celebrate Amuse Bistro’s first anniversary at Unsworth vineyards.  Info and RSVP at http://www.amuseonthevineyard.com/

March 17 and 18, 6:30 – 9:00 p.m. – “iPad Basics – Taming the Slippery Slate,” Cowichan Bay Estuary Centre, Cowichan Bay.  Info, www.westviewlearning.ca

March 17, 8:00 p.m. – Hannah Morten, sixteen year old singer song-writer, celebrating one year of writing every day, Duncan Garage Showroom

March 18, 6:00 p.m. – Documentary night at the Cowichan Library presents “Mansome” by Morgan Sprulock.

March 18 – 20, 9:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. – Spring Break Workshop, “Estuary Investigations! A Multi-Media Advenure,” Cowichan Bay Estuary Centre, Cowichan Bay.  Info, www.westviewlearning.ca

March 18 – 22, 9:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. – Spring break activity days, Frank Jameson Community Center, Ladysmith

March 18, 7:30 – 9:30 a.m. – VIU Continuing Education, “Beekeeping in the Warmland,”Cowichan Campus, Duncan.  Info, (250) 746-3519.

March 19 and 20, 6:30 – 9:00 p.m. - “iPad Writing, Publishing eBooks,” Cowichan Bay Estuary Centre, Cowichan Bay.  Info, www.westviewlearning.ca

March 20, 12:00 noon – 3:00 p.m – Community meeting to hear from seniors, family members and community agencies as United Way prepares to launch “Better at Home” in Cowichan.  Duncan United Church, 246 Ingram St.

March 20, time t.b.a. – Stephen Fearing, Duncan Garage Showroom

March 21 (and every Thursday) 6:30 – 8:00 p.m. – Cowichan Valley Scottish Country Dancing, Chemainus Seniors Center.  Singles and couples welcome.

March 21, 7:00 p.m. - CVRD sponsored speaker series presentation on property taxes, local government finances, operating realities, and the long term well-being of our communities, Cowichan Lake Sports Arena

March 21, 7:00 p.m. – National Theatre Live broadcast live from Great Britain, “People” by Alex Bennett.  Info, www.cowichantheatre.bc.ca

March 21, 7:00 – 9:00 p.m. – “The Way is Made by Walking,” hosted by the Cowichan Intercultural Society.  Come and hear the experiences of those who have walked the Camino de Santiago, which spans the breadth of Spain; and learn about how you can fall into step with the rhythms of your own community by walking with others for reconciliation in the Cowichan Valley.  205-394 Duncan Street.  Info, 250-748-3112

March 22, 7:00 – 9:00 p.m. – Film showing and discussion of TedX presentation by Carolyn Heriott, food security consultant and authour of “Zero Mile Living – Living the Good Life,” Duncan Garage Showroom.

March 22 & 23, 4:00 p.m. – 6:00 p.m. – “Zero Mile Living – Living the Good Life” book signing, Community Farm Store.  Info, 250-748-6227

March 23, 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. – Female hockey day, Island Savings Center.  Info and registration, 250-748-7529 or 250-743-5922.

March 23, 9:30 a.m. – Perennial plant exchange, Dinter Nursery.  Set up by 9:20.  Exchange starts at 9:30 a.m. sharp.

March 23, 10:00 a.m. – Free seminar, natural lawn care, Dinter Nursery.  Info, 250-748-2023.

March 23, 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. – Duncan Seedy Saturday, Si'em Lelum Gym 5574 River Rd.  Info, 250-748-8506.

March 23, 7:00 p.m. – Dance with The Happy Hans, Chemainus Seniors Drop In Center.

March 23, 7:30 p.m. – Skellig open mic session, “Pass the Hat” donations, Crofton Hotel

March 23, 8:30 p.m. – Earth hour.  Switch of the lights and unplug those electrical devices for one hour.  Info, http://earthhour.org/ 

March 24 and 25, 6:30 – 9:00 p.m. - “iPad Writing, Publishing eBooks,” Cowichan Bay Estuary Centre, Cowichan Bay.  Info, www.westviewlearning.ca

March 24, 7:00 p.m. – “The Big Picture,” the Bible in 2 hours, by Dennis Hassell.  Info, www.cowichantheatre.bc.ca

March 25, 11:30 a.m. – 2:30 p.m. – Seniors’ drop in luncheon, Cobble Hill Hall, 3550 Watson Ave.  Info, Allan Garside, 250-818-4205

March 25 – 27, 9:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. - Spring Break Workshop, “Estuary Investigations! A Multi-Media Advenure,” Cowichan Bay Estuary Centre, Cowichan Bay.  Info, www.westviewlearning.ca

March 25 and 26, 6:30 – 9:00 p.m. - “iPad Basics – Taming the Slippery Slate,” Cowichan Bay Estuary Centre, Cowichan Bay.  Info, www.westviewlearning.ca

March 25, 7:00 p.m. – “The Intouchables,” a Reel Alternative film, Cowichan Valley Theatre.  All proceeds to the Cowichan Valley Hospice Society.  Info, www.cowichantheatre.bc.ca

March 26 – Pysanka (Ukrainian Easter Egg) Workshop, Duncan Library.  Info, 250-746-7661.

March 26, - 27, 1:15 – 7:15 p.m. – Blood donor clinic, Heritage Room, 2^nd floor, Island Savings Center, 2687 James St.

March 26, 7:00 p.m. - CVRD sponsored speaker series presentation on property taxes, local government finances, operating realities, and the long term well-being of our communities, Ladysmith Senior Secondary

March 27 – Needle felting workshop, Duncan Library.  Info, 250-746-7661.

March 28, 12:00 – 6:00 p.m. – Blood donor clinic, Heritage Room, 2^nd floor, Island Savings Center, 2687 James St.

March 28, 7:00 p.m. - CVRD sponsored speaker series presentation on property taxes, local government finances, operating realities, and the long term well-being of our communities, Cowichan Lake Sports Arena.

March 30, 10:00 a.m. – Easter Egg Hunt sponsored by Chemainus-Crofton #4400 Fraternal Order of Eagles, Fuller Lake Park

March 30, 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 noon – Annual Heather Sale, Cobble Hill Farmers’ Institute, 3550 Watson Ave., Cobble Hill.

March 30, 10:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. – Ladymith Lions Annual Easter Egg Hunt, Transfer Beach Park

March 30, 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. – Crofton Easter egg hunt, Crofton ball fields, corner Emily and Musgrove Streets.

March 31, 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. – Easter hunt and family day at BC Forest Discovery Center.  Info, http://www.bcforestmuseum.ca

April 4, 6:30 p.m. – Cowichan Bay Waterworks District annual general meeting, Cowichan Bay Fire Department, 4461 Trans Canada Highway

April 6, 9:00 a.m. – Live at the Metropolitan Opera in HD, broadcast live from New York, “Rigoletto.” Info, www.cowichantheatre.bc.ca

April 6, 11:00 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.  – Team Evans MS Walk fundraiser hotdog sale at WalMart

April 6, 2:00 – 4:00 p.m. – Coloured pencil techniques demonstration by Lawrence Bellows, Loft Gallery, Mill Bay

April 7, 10:00 – Island Cup Mountain Bike series 2013 Maple Mountain XC.  Info, http://www.raceonline.ca/events/details/?id=385

April 8 (and every Monday through May 13) – Say, Sign and Play baby sign language course, Fuller Lake Arena.  Info, 250-246-3811

April 8 (and every Monday through May 27) 11:00 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. – Cowichan Seniors Community Program brain fitness program, Cobble Hill Youth Hall, Watson Ave.  Info, 250-715-6481

April 11 – 13, 7:30 p.m. – Shawnigan Lake School presents “Hairspray,” Cowichan Theatre, www.cowichantheatre.bc.ca

April 12 – 14 – West Coast Men’s Support Society men’s initiation weekend, Shawnigan Lake.  Info, 250-597-2801

April 13, 7:00 p.m. – 10:00 p.m. – Cowichan Valley Whisky Festival, Oceanfront Suites at Cowichan Bay.  Proceeds to Daybreak Rotary Club projects.  Tickets and information, http://cvwhiskyfest.ca or (250) 710-2908

April 14, 2:30 p.m. – Palm Court Light Orchestra presents “Somewhere Over the Rainbow,” Cowichan Theatre. Info, www.cowichantheatre.bc.ca

April 15, 7:30 p.m. – Randy Bachman’s Vinyl Tap Tour:  Every Song Tells a Story, Cowichan Theatre.  Info, www.cowichantheatre.bc.ca

April 17 – 20, 7:30 p.m. – “Up the Down Staircase,” T Gil Bunch Centre, Brentwood College

April 19, 7:30 p.m. – Victoria Ballet presents “The Secret Garden,” Cowichan Theatre.  Info, www.cowichantheatre.bc.ca

April 21 and 22 – Earth Day celebrations in Chemainus

April 21, 10:00 a.m. - Island Cup Mountain Bike series cross country ride.  Info, http://www.cowichancycles.com/

April 27, 9:00 a.m. – Live at the Metropolitan Opera in HD, broadcast live from New York, Handel’s “Guilio Cesare,” Cowichan Theatre, Info, www.cowichantheatre.bc.ca

May 4, 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. – Cowichan Valley Garden Fair, Cowichan Exhibition Grounds.  Info, Twitter - @CowGardenFair.com or www.CowichanValleyGardenFair.com

May 5, 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. – 4^th Annual Hike for Hospice, Providence Farm.  Info, 250-701-4242

May 11, 12:00 noon – Literacy North Cowichan fundraising golf tournament, dinner, and silent auction, Cowichan Golf and Country Club.  Golf and dinner $100.  Dinner only $40.  Tickets at LNC office, 213 B Cowichan Merchants' Building, corner of Station and Craig; or from any director; or at the Cowichan Golf Club.

May 17 – 19 – 11^th Annual Kitty Coleman Woodland Art and Bloom Festival fine arts and quality crafts show.  Info, http://woodlandgardens.ca/

May 19, 9:00 a.m. - Island Cup Mountain Bike series Mount Prevost Downhill.  Info, http://www.cowichancycles.com/

August 25 – Art on the Avenue artists’ show and sale, downtown Ladysmith

The final stage of median installation is now underway on the Malahat Drive.  Watch for road construction and expect some delays.  Be careful out there!

Five new front desk volunteers are being sought at the Cancer Society office, 100-394 Duncan St.  The front desk job is diverse and interesting but requires no special office skills beyond an ability to answer the phone and greet people with warmth and compassion.  Front desk volunteers do two shifts of three hours each per month and training is provided.   For further information or to apply, contact Margaret Davis by leaving a message at 250-746-4134 or by email at mdavis@interconnected.ca

The Cowichan Valley Minor Hockey Association is looking for volunteers for the Provincial Tier 1 Bantam Championships on March 16 - 21st - The Cowichan Valley Capitals are looking for 8 to 10 people to help out.  Please contact leeannberard@yahoo.ca or call 250-748-5509.

The 11^th annual Kitty Coleman Woodland Art and Bloom Festival is calling for entries to its juried fine art and quality crafts show.  Applications for artisans are available at 2bevzimmerman@gmail.com

Arts on the Avenue in Ladysmith is calling for entries from Vancouver Island and Gulf Island artists wishing to sell their work with Arts on the Avenue on August 25, 2013.  Interested artists must submit an example of their work no later than noon, March 18, for jurying.  Submissions should be made to the Waterfront Gallery, 610 Oyster Bay Rd..  Info, www.artonavenue.com, 250-245-1252.

Are you, or do you know, an artist who might be interested in this opportunity:

The City of Duncan is pleased to invite artists or artist teams to enter an open public art competition for a commission of up to $25,000 to create a permanent work of art to be installed within the City of Duncan.  Proponents are asked to consider not only the work of art, but also the appropriate location for it.  Projects proposed must be publicly accessible and located on public property such as City-owned or controlled parks, boulevards, or buildings.  Each artist/team is limited to one entry.

This opportunity is open to established and emerging artists, or artist teams who are able to meet the creative, eligibility and performance criteria and who can demonstrate the skills to manage all phases of production and implementation – from design to installation, and have the ability to meet timelines and work cooperatively with others.

The RFP accepts paper submissions via mail or delivered in person.  Electronic submission are also accepted and encouraged.  Submissions must be complete and strictly adhere to the Guidelines and Submission Requirements contained in the Request for Public Art Proposals, Terms of Reference (available on the City’s website www.duncan.ca) or risk not being considered.  Faxed submissions will not be accepted. 

Submissions must be received by Tuesday, April 2, 2013 @ 3:00 pm

The City reserved the right to reject any or all responses, to waive defects in any proposal documents and to accept any proposal or offer which it considers to be in the best interest of the City.  The lowest or any tender offerwill not necessarily the accepted.

For further information contact:  Peter de Vertuil, Telephon:  250-746-6126, email peter@duncan.ca

Source:  Cowichan Valley Citizen, Friday, March 1, 2013

*Please note that I do not guarantee that your listing will be added to my calendar.  Listings sent to me will be posted only at my discretion. Please be advised that I will not share listings I consider unsuitable for my audience or inappropriate in content.

What's Up? (A list of coming events in the Cowichan area)

Hello!

This little list of mine is growing!  There's lots of information here but I'm always glad to hear more about what's happening in the Cowichan Valley.  If you have an event you'd like to add to the list, please email it to me at AuntBsCalendar@gmail.com *

• Ongoing – Penny Drive fundraiser for MS Support Group.  Drop off your pennies at the MS Society office or at Market Palooza on Canada Ave, Duncan

• Ongoing until April 14 – Upper Island Music Festival. Info, http://www.nanaimomusicfestival.com

• Ongoing until April 12 – Escape Artists annual show “A Nature Walk,” Loft Gallery, Mill Bay

• Ongoing until April 12 – MS Walk fundraiser book and chocolate sale, Team ScotiaBank Striders, Bank of Nova Scotia, Duncan

• Ongoing until April 30 – Call for volunteers, Somenos Marsh Wildlife Society.  If you are interested in helping out, contact the society at 250-732-0462

• March 8, 5:00 p.m. – International Women’s Day celebration potluck dinner, Eagles Hall.  Info, 250-746-8686

• March 8, 7:00 p.m. – Cowichan Valley Capitals vs Powell River Kings, Cowichan Arena

• March 8, 7:30 p.m. – Victoria Symphony performs Estacio Brio: Toccata and Fantasy For Orchestra, Elgar: Cello Concerto,  and Brahms: Symphony No. 2, Cowichan Theatre.  Info, www.cowichantheatre.bc.ca

• March 9, 9:00 a.m. – Public consultation for proposed restructuring by the Cowichan Valley School District, Quamichan Middle School

• March 9 (and every Saturday), 9:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. – Duncan Farmers’ Market, City Square, Duncan

• March 9, 9:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. – Xi Alpha Xi fundraiser garage sale, 1440 Algonkin Rd.

• March 9, 9:30 a.m. – Public meeting to discuss changes to the operation of the weir, Lake Cowichan Centennial Hall, 311 South Shore Rd

• March 9, 10:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. – Cobble Hill Seedy Saturday, Cobble Hill Hall, Watson Ave.

• March 9, 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m.  – Teen Transition Coordinator Parent Orientation Boot Camp, Island Savings Center. Info, www.teentransitionplanning.ca

• March 9, 1:00 p.m. – Public consultation for proposed restructuring by the Cowichan Valley School District, George Bonner Middle School

• March 9, 1:00 – 2:00 p.m. – Artist’s Books with Trisha Klus, South Cowichan Library.  Call 250-743-5436 to register.

• March 9, 2:00 – 4:00 p.m. – Monotype demonstration by Betty Cavin, Loft Gallery, Mill Bay

• March 9, 7:30 p.m. – Terri Clark, Cowichan Theatre.  Info, www.cowichantheatre.bc.ca

• March 9, 5:30 – 10:30 p.m. – Cowichan Theraputic Riding Association fundraising Gala, “Fox and Hounds” dinner and auction, Duncan Travelodge

• March 9, 7:00 p.m. – Cowichan Valley Capitals vs West Kelowna Warriors, Cowichan Arena

• March 9, 7:00 p.m. – Dance with The Esquires, Chemainus Seniors Drop In Center.

• March 9, 7:30 p.m. – Cowichan Folk Guild Island Folk Festival fundraising concert featuring Ryan McMahon, Duncan United Church.  Info, http://www.islandsfolkfestival.ca/ 

• March 9, 7:30 p.m. – “The Seasons.”  The Cowichan Consort Orchestra and Choir celebrates the coming of spring, Christian Reformed Church, 930 Trunk Rd.

• March 9, 8:00 p.m. – Ingrid Gatin/Twin Voices, Duncan Garage Showroom

• March 10 – Daylight savings time begins.  Move your clocks ahead one hour.

• March 10, 11:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. – MS Walk fundraiser Team Evans Hot Dog Sale at WalMart

• March 10, 1:00 – 6:00 p.m. – Cowichan Chef’s Table for MS, Providence Farm.  Info and tickets, 250-748-7010 or anne.muir@mssociety.ca

• March 10, 2:00 p.m. – Musical “Night of Knights” shown on a large screen at Chemainus Seniors Center

• March 10, 5:00 – 7:00 p.m. – Open Mic Night at Coffee on The Moon, Canada Ave., Duncan

• March 10, 8:00 p.m. – Cecile Doo-Kingue, blues, soul and Afro folk, Duncan Garage Showroom

• March 11 – The Crofton boat ramp will be closed for the day.  Please use the Chemainus boat ramp at Kinsmen Beach park

• March 11 – 14 – BC Cancer Agency screening mammography mobile service will be in Mill Bay.  Women between the ages of 40 and 79 can call 1-800-663-9203 for a free appointment.

• March 11, 11:30 – 2:30 – Seniors’ drop in luncheon, Cobble Hill Hall, 3550 Watson Ave.  Info, Allan Garside, 250-818-4205

• March 11, 6:00 p.m. – Relay for Life Kickoff, Travelodge, Duncan

• March 11, 8:00 p.m. – Comedian Matt Bloom, Duncan Garage Showroom

• March 12 - Ground will be broken for the new visitors' information centre by the Forest Discovery Centre.

• March 12, 12:00 noon – 1:30 p.m. – Tofino mudflats interpretive walk, Darwin’s Café, Tofino Botanical Gardens.  

• March 12, 7:00 p.m. – CVRD sponsored speaker series presentation on property taxes, local government finances, operating realities, and the long term well-being of our communities, Kerry Park Recreation Center.

• March 12, 7:30 p.m. – Off reserve Aboriginal Action Plan Forum for youth ages 14 to 24, Quw’utsun’ Cutlural Center, 200 Cowichan Way

• March 13, 4:30 p.m. – Cowichan Valley School District Open Board Meeting, Cowichan Secondary School Cafeteria.

• March 13, 6:30 p.m. – Zumba fundraiser (ages 16+), Drinkwater Elementary School.  Info, 250-748-2820 or debandmat@shaw.ca

• March 14, 9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. – Tourism Pro D Day, Cowichan Golf and Country Club.  Info, http://tvitour.ca

• March 14, 7:00 p.m. – Shawnigan Lake Community Center Commission AGM, Shawnigan Lake Community Center, 2804 Shawnigan Lake Rd.

• March 14, 7:00 p.m. – CVRD sponsored speaker series presentation on property taxes, local government finances, operating realities, and the long term well-being of our communities, Island Savings Center, Mesachie Room

• March 15 – 17 (and Thursday to Sunday every week) 12:00 noon – 4:00 p.m. – Open house, Cowichan Estuary Nature Center, Cowichan Bay.  Admission by donation.

• March 15 – 17 – Fire and Bones boys’ weekend, hosted by West Coast Men’s Support Society, Shawnigan Lake.  Info, 250-597-2801

• March 15 – 21 – Spring Family Celebrations at Merridale Ciderworks.  Info, http://www.merridalecider.com/

• March 15, 2:30 – 8:00 p.m. – Chamber of Commerce Home, Garden, and Business Show, Aggie Hall, 1110 First Ave, Ladysmith

• March 16 – 17 – Orca  Invitational Gymnastics Competition. Info, 250-746-0193 or www.ddgc.ca

• March 16 – March 21 – Pacific Rim Whale Festival, Uclulet and Tofino, BC.  Info, www.pacificrimwhalefestival.com

• March 16 , 1:30 – 4:30 p.m. – Free photography workshop for teens, with Phil Walmsley.  Bring a camera. Registration required, 250-746-7661

• March 16, 8:00 a.m. – 3:00 p.m. – Shawnigan Lake Community Center Commission first annual garage sale, Shawnigan Lake Community Center, 2804 Shawnigan Lake Rd.

• March 16, 9:00 a.m. – Live at the Opera in HD, broadcast live from New York, “Francesca di Rimini.”  Info, www.cowichantheatre.bc.ca

• March 16, 9:30 – 11:00 a.m. – Pancake Breakfast, $5.00, Chemainus Seniors Drop In Center.

• March 16, 10:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m. – Chamber of Commerce Home, Garden, and Business Show, Aggie Hall, 1110 First Ave, Ladysmith

• March 16, 5:00 p.m. – Chemainus Seniors Drop In Center birthday party potluck

• March 16, 6:30 – 7:55 p.m. – Pirate Swim, Frank Jameson Community Center, Ladysmith

• March 17, 2:00 p.m. – Cari Burdett (mezzo soprano) solo voice concert, with Leah Hokanson on piano, celebrating Britten’s 100^th anniversary with his song cycle “The Charm of Lullabies,” St. Michael and all Angels Anglican Church, 2858 Mill St., Chemainus

• March 18, 6:00 p.m. – Documentary night at the Cowichan Library presents “Mansome” by Morgan Spurlock.

• March 17 and 18, 6:30 – 9:00 p.m. – “iPad Basics – Taming the Slippery Slate,” Cowichan Bay Estuary Centre, Cowichan Bay.  Info, www.westviewlearning.ca

• March 18 – 20, 9:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. – Spring Break Workshop, “Estuary Investigations! A Multi-Media Advenure,” Cowichan Bay Estuary Centre, Cowichan Bay.  Info, www.westviewlearning.ca

• March 19 and 20, 6:30 – 9:00 p.m. - “iPad Writing, Publishing eBooks,” Cowichan Bay Estuary Centre, Cowichan Bay.  Info, www.westviewlearning.ca

• March 21, 7:00 p.m. - CVRD sponsored speaker series presentation on property taxes, local government finances, operating realities, and the long term well-being of our communities, Cowichan Lake Sports Arena

• March 21, 7:00 p.m. – National Theatre Live broadcast live from Great Britain, “People” by Alex Bennett.  Info, www.cowichantheatre.bc.ca

• March 23, 7:00 p.m. – Dance with The Happy Hans, Chemainus Seniors Drop In Center.

• March 23, 7:30 p.m. – Singer-songwriter Alex Cuba, Cowichan Theatre.  Info, www.cowichantheatre.bc.ca

• March 24 and 25, 6:30 – 9:00 p.m. - “iPad Writing, Publishing eBooks,” Cowichan Bay Estuary Centre, Cowichan Bay.  Info, www.westviewlearning.ca

• March 24, 7:00 p.m. – “The Big Picture,” the Bible in 2 hours, by Dennis Hassell.  Info, www.cowichantheatre.bc.ca

• March 25 – 27, 9:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. - Spring Break Workshop, “Estuary Investigations! A Multi-Media Advenure,” Cowichan Bay Estuary Centre, Cowichan Bay.  Info, www.westviewlearning.ca

• March 25 and 26, 6:30 – 9:00 p.m. - “iPad Basics – Taming the Slippery Slate,” Cowichan Bay Estuary Centre, Cowichan Bay.  Info, www.westviewlearning.ca

• March 25, 7:00 p.m. – “The Intouchables,” a Reel Alternative film, Cowichan Valley Theatre.  All proceeds to the Cowichan Valley Hospice Society.  Info, www.cowichantheatre.bc.ca

• March 26 – Pysanka (Ukrainian Easter Egg) Workshop, Duncan Library.  Info, 250-746-7661.

• March 26, - 27, 1:15 – 7:15 p.m. – Blood donor clinic, Heritage Room, 2^nd floor, Island Savings Center, 2687 James St.

• March 26, 7:00 p.m. - CVRD sponsored speaker series presentation on property taxes, local government finances, operating realities, and the long term well-being of our communities, Ladysmith Senior Secondary

• March 27 – Needle felting workshop, Duncan Library.  Info, 250-746-7661.

• March 28, 12:00 – 6:00 p.m. – Blood donor clinic, Heritage Room, 2^nd floor, Island Savings Center, 2687 James St.

• March 30, 10:00 a.m. – Easter Egg Hunt sponsored by Chemainus-Crofton #4400 Fraternal Order of Eagles, Fuller Lake Park

• March 30, 10:00 a.m. – 12:00 noon – Annual Heather Sale, Cobble Hill Farmers’ Institute, 3550 Watson Ave., Cobble Hill.

• March 30, 11:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. – Crofton Easter egg hunt, Crofton ball fields, corner Emily and Musgrove Streets.

• April 6, 9:00 a.m. – Live at the Metropolitan Opera in HD, broadcast live from New York, “Rigoletto.” Info, www.cowichantheatre.bc.ca

• April 6, 11:00 a.m. – 3:30 p.m.  – Team Evans MS Walk fundraiser hotdog sale at WalMart

• April 6, 2:00 – 4:00 p.m. – Coloured pencil techniques demonstration by Lawrence Bellows, Loft Gallery, Mill Bay

• April 7, 10:00 – Island Cup Mountain Bike series 2013 Maple Mountain XC.  Info, http://www.raceonline.ca/events/details/?id=385

• April 8 (and every Monday through May 13) – Say, Sign and Play baby sign language course, Fuller Lake Arena.  Info, 250-246-3811

• April 8 (and every Monday through May 27) 11:00 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. –Cowichan Seniors Community Program brain fitness program, Cobble Hill Youth Hall, Watson Ave.  Info, 250-715-6481

• April 11 – 13, 7:30 p.m. – Shawnigan Lake School presents “Hairspray,” Cowichan Theatre, www.cowichantheatre.bc.ca

• April 12 – 14 – West Coast Men’s Support Society men’s initiation weekend, Shawnigan Lake.  Info, 250-597-2801

• April 14, 2:30 p.m. – Palm Court Light Orchestra presents “Somewhere Over the Rainbow,” Cowichan Theatre. Info, www.cowichantheatre.bc.ca

• April 15, 7:30 p.m. – Randy Bachman’s Vinyl Tap Tour:  Every Song Tells a Story, Cowichan Theatre.  Info, www.cowichantheatre.bc.ca

• April 17 – 20, 7:30 p.m. – “Up the Down Staircase,” T Gil Bunch Centre, Brentwood College

• April 19, 7:30 p.m. – Victoria Ballet presents “The Secret Garden,” Cowichan Theatre.  Info, Info, www.cowichantheatre.bc.ca

• April 21 and 22 – Earth Day celebrations in Chemainus

• April 21, 10:00 a.m. - Island Cup Mountain Bike series cross country ride.  Info, http://www.cowichancycles.com/

• April 27, 9:00 a.m. – Live at the Metropolitan Opera in HD, broadcast live from New York, Handel’s “Guilio Cesare,” Cowichan Theatre, Info, www.cowichantheatre.bc.ca

• May 4, 10:00 a.m. – 2:00 p.m. – Cowichan Valley Garden Fair, Cowichan Exhibition Grounds.  Info, Twitter - @CowGardenFair.com or www.CowichanValleyGardenFair.com

• May 5, 10:00 a.m. – 1:00 p.m. – 4^th Annual Hike for Hospice, Providence Farm.  Info, 250-701-4242

• May 11, 12:00 noon – Literacy North Cowichan fundraising golf tournament, dinner, and silent auction, Cowichan Golf and Country Club.  Golf and dinner $100.  Dinner only $40.  Tickets at LNC office, 213B Cowichan Merchants' Building, corner of Station and Craig; or from any director; or at the Cowichan Golf Club.

• May 17 – 19 – 11^th Annual Kitty Coleman Woodland Art and Bloom Festival fine arts and quality crafts show.  Info, http://woodlandgardens.ca/

• May 19, 9:00 a.m. - Island Cup Mountain Bike series Mount Prevost Downhill.  Info, http://www.cowichancycles.com/

• August 25 – Art on the Avenue artists’ show and sale, downtown Ladysmith

The final stage of median installation is now underway on the Malahat Drive.  Watch for road construction and expect some delays.  Be careful out there!

Five new front desk volunteers are being sought at the Cancer Society office, 100-394 Duncan St.  The front desk job is diverse and interesting but requires no special office skills beyond an ability to answer the phone and greet people with warmth and compassion.  Front desk volunteers do two shifts of three hours each per month and training is provided.   For further information or to apply, contact Margaret Davis by leaving a message at 250-746-4134 or by email at mdavis@interconnected.ca

The Cowichan Valley Minor Hockey is looking for Volunteers for the Provincial Tier 1 Bantam Championships on March 16 – 21st – The Cowichan Valley Capitals are looking for 8 – 10 people to help out. Please contact leeannberard@yahoo.ca or call 250-748-5509.

The 11^th annual Kitty Coleman Woodland Art and Bloom Festival is calling for entries to its juried fine art and quality crafts show.  Applications for artisans are available at 2bevzimmerman@gmail.com

Arts on the Avenue in Ladysmith is calling for entries from Vancouver Island and Gulf Island artists wishing to sell their work with Arts on the Avenue on August 25, 2013.  Interested artists must submit an example of their work no later than noon, March 18, for jurying.  Submissions should be made to the Waterfront Gallery, 610 Oyster Bay Rd..  Info, www.artonavenue.com, 250-245-1252.

Are you, or do you know, an artist who might be interested in this opportunity:

The City of Duncan is pleased to invite artists or artist teams to enter an open public art competition for a commission of up to $25,000 to create a permanent work of art to be installed within the City of Duncan.  Proponents are asked to consider not only the work of art, but also the appropriate location for it.  Projects proposed must be publicly accessible and located on public property such as City-owned or controlled parks, boulevards, or buildings.  Each artist/team is limited to one entry.

This opportunity is open to established and emerging artists, or artist teams who are able to meet the creative, eligibility and performance criteria and who can demonstrate the skills to manage all phases of production and implementation – from design to installation, and have the ability to meet timelines and work cooperatively with others.

The RFP accepts paper submissions via mail or delivered in person.  Electronic submission are also accepted and encouraged.  Submissions must be complete and strictly adhere to the Guidelines and Submission Requirements contained in the Request for Public Art Proposals, Terms of Reference (available on the City’s website www.duncan.ca) or risk not being considered.  Faxed submissions will not be accepted. 

Submissions must be received by Tuesday, April 2, 2013 @ 3:00 pm

The City reserves the right to reject any or all responses, to waive defects in any proposal documents and to accept any proposal or offer which it considers to be in the best interest of the City.  The lowest or any tender offerwill not necessarily the accepted.

For further information contact:  Peter de Vertuil, Telephon:  250-746-6126, email peter@duncan.ca

Source:  Cowichan Valley Citizen, Friday, March 1, 2013

  

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