The Cowichan Valley’s Doman family has donated $50,000 to the BC Forest Discovery Centre to go towards plans for a new building at the site to commemorate the family’s long history in forestry on Vancouver Island.
Specifically, the building will highlight the many achievements of the three Doman brothers — Gordon, Herb and Ted — who founded the Doman Lumber Company in 1955, and the family over the decades since then.
The $50,000 donation is the first contribution towards the new building, and the total cost is unknown at this stage of its development.
Chris Gale, general manager of the BC Forest Discovery Centre, said the new building dedicated to the Domans will allow the centre to tell the story of the family the way it should be told.
“The Domans’ contribution to the forest industry on Vancouver Island is gigantic,” he said.
“A large lumber truck donated by the family will be located in the open end of the building and the rest will be dedicated to telling the story of the family. We’ve been talking about this for some time. The family has supported us in all aspects of the centre’s operations and has always been there to help.”
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The Cowichan Valley’s The Old Farm Market celebrated its 35th anniversary in November, and general manager Chris Steel said it is being commemorated with lower prices at the store.
He said The Old Farm Market held an anniversary event on Nov. 26 that saw many sales, including a pound of apples selling for just 35 cents and those who spent $35 at the store received a $5 gift card.
“It was a fantastic day; the busiest one we had since the pandemic,” Steel said.
Steel said that with people struggling financially and grocery prices skyrocketing in many stores, The Old Farm Market has begun an initiative where it will review prices in competing businesses each week and ensure its prices are lower.
“While grocery prices are going up elsewhere, we’re going the opposite way and lowering our prices,” he said.
“That’s going to be our practice from now on and our motto has changed to ‘Great Produce at Best Prices’.”
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LAINE Vintage is now open on 119 Station St., next door to Wishes.
At LAINE Vintage, you will find a thoughtfully hand-picked selection of vintage clothing, home goods, and small furniture pieces.
Looking for a fun and festive Friday night activity to help you kick off your holiday season?
Come see what LAINE Vintage has in store during Downtown Duncan’s Holiday Sip & Shop (19+) event on Dec. 1 until 9 p.m.
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Join the folks at Unsworth Vineyards this weekend, Dec. 1-3, for some holiday cheer at its open house.
Unsworth Vineyards has decked the halls, polished the extra stemware, and is looking forward to welcoming you to the Tasting Room this Friday through Sunday, from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., for its Holiday Open House.
Come raise a glass with old and new friends while enjoying all things festive, including a complimentary welcome wine cocktail and canapé.
Themed wine tasting flights and delicious bites will also be available for purchase.
“Count on plenty of local goodies to help you with your Christmas shopping list, and with a 10 per cent discount on wine-inspired gift baskets, gift sets, and our new Tasting Trilogy experience, it can be both fun and productive,” the vineyard said.
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Official merchandise from Laketown Ranch is now available at the ranch’s online store.
Laketown Ranch is a world-class entertainment and recreation complex located on more than 260 acres near Lake Cowichan.
The popular venue draws thousands every year to its many concerts and shows, including Sunfest and Laketown Shakedown.
An ad for the new online store, which can be found at shop.laketownranch.com, said the store is open just in time for the holidays.
“Get your official merch from Sunfest, Laketown Shakedown and Laketown Ranch, with new items being added all the time,” the ad said.
“Let us know in the comments which products you’d like to see us add.”
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The Cowichan Regional Visitor Centre is decking the halls with custom gift baskets, overflowing with Cowichan-branded goodies and island-made gems.
Perfect for everyone from your favourite client to the world’s best teacher, or even that mysterious Secret Santa.
Like playing Santa yourself? Pop in and hand-pick each item for that extra special touch.
Or, if you’re dashing through the snow, just let the CRVC know your budget, and they’ll whip up a magical selection for you.
Either way, you’ll leave with a basket packed full of joy and Cowichan charm, all tied up with a beautiful bow.
Swing by for a merry basket assembly Monday to Friday, from 9 a.m. to 5 pm., or Saturday, 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Too busy roasting chestnuts?
Email tourismrelations@duncancc.bc.ca or call 250-746-4636.
“We even offer complimentary sleigh (aka delivery) service between Mill Bay and Herd Road,” the CRVC said.
“Come and spread the holiday cheer with a Cowichan twist.”