A new chocolate shop has opened at 24 Kenneth St. in Duncan, the former location of Rembrandt’s Chocolates.
The Chocolate Shop was opened in February by Sara Sellers, a life-long chocolatier who once worked at Rembrandt’s Chocolates and specializes in making home-made chocolates.
Colleen Glanville, who works at The Chocolate Shop, said Sellers closed the shop for about a month after she took over the location while renovations were underway and reopened it under its new name in early February.
She said as well as the usual chocolate treats, The Chocolate Shop also offers alternative chocolate options that are sugar-free, vegan and gluten free.
“Business has been good since we opened,” Glanville said.
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Malahat SkyWalk is making the attraction even more affordable for families to visit this spring break with its Kids Visit Free promotion.
From March 9 to April 1, children and youth aged 17 and under will receive free admission when one adult ticket is purchased.
There is no better way to spend Spring Break than by reconnecting as a family in the great outdoors.
With the natural west coast setting, immersive experience along the elevated TreeWalk, plus thrills and epic views on the 10-storey Spiral Tower, the only use for a mobile device will be to capture all the unforgettable moments together.
“We are excited to welcome families to connect with nature and experience the best of Vancouver Island with us,” said Nathan Bird, general manager of Malahat SkyWalk.
“We have created a special line-up of spring break activities this year as well as Easter festivities that the whole family will enjoy.”
For more information, visit malahatskywalk.com or call 1-833-625-2428
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Music Together Mid Island will continue to offer “Music Together” classes for families with children, ages birth through six, in the Cowichan Valley in April through June.
Families with young children can now once again experience the high-quality music and movement curriculum that’s been taught at the HUB at Cowichan Station since 2019.
This spring, weekly, in-person Music Together classes at Music Together Mid Island will be held at two indoor locations in Cowichan Station at the HUB, 2375 Koksilah Rd., as well as in Lake Cowichan at Align Yoga, 89 South Shore Rd.
There will be a free demonstration class offered from 9:30 a.m. to 10:15 a.m. on March 12 at Align Yoga.
Sign up for the free class at marniemtmidisland@gmail.com soon as there are limited spots.
Music Together Mid Island director, Marnie Setka-Mooney said the organization is excited to continue its in-person class locations starting on April 8-9.
“The chance to come together and make music is exactly what we need right now,” she said.
“There’s nothing quite like music to strengthen community, and relieve stress. It brings us together and builds important social connections like no other activity. Making music is something the whole family can enjoy doing together, and it naturally supports children’s developing brains.”
Visit musictogethermidisland.com for the spring schedule and for details to easily register for an indoor or online class.
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Get ready for the next Duncan Cowichan Chamber of Commerce Field Trip Adventure.
On March 13, the chamber is mixing up its midweek with a scenic walk to Stocking Creek Falls, capped off with a delightful dining experience at Owl’s Nest at Saltair Station.
This outing, part of the Dine & Sip Cowichan festivities, promises the perfect fusion of nature’s tranquility, warm camaraderie, and culinary delights.
Participants will gather at 9:30 a.m. in the Stocking Creek Park parking lot.
The chamber encourages attendees to keep an eye out for the blue sign on Old Chemainus Road that will guide them to Thicke Road and the meeting spot.
“It’s a splendid opportunity to connect with fellow chamber members and breathe in the beauty of Cowichan’s landscapes,” the chamber said.
“Following our refreshing walk, we’ll indulge in the cozy ambience of Owl’s Nest Saltair Station, enjoying their specially crafted local fare. While the event is open to all without a fee, dining is pay-as-you-go. Don’t miss out on the recommended Dine & Sip Specials, including the sumptuous Smoked Salmon Egg Benny.”
Register online, call 250-748-1111 or email chamber@duncancc.bc.ca to participate in the field trip.
The field trip is free to join for members and their guests, but a reminder that you are responsible for your own food and drink bill.
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In other chamber news, get ready to level up your tax knowledge over lunch.
Join chamber members on March 20, from noon to 1 p.m., at the Cowichan Regional Visitor Centre for an enlightening Lunch & Learn session with CRA Liaison Officer Divjot Singh.
This complimentary workshop is your golden ticket to demystifying business taxes.
From income tax, GST/HST, and payroll to tax deductions and the Underused Housing Tax, you’ll gain valuable insights directly from a Canadian Revenue Service expert.
Plus, dive into financial benchmarks, bookkeeping basics, and avoid common tax errors.
“This interactive session, which is free for chamber members and their guests, is perfect for small business owners, the self-employed, and aspiring entrepreneurs,” the chamber said.
“It’s a unique chance to get your tax questions answered, receive personalized advice, and network with fellow chamber members. Just bring your lunch and your questions for an informative midday break.”
Register online, call 250-748-1111 or email chamber@duncancc.bc.ca.