Republic of Denmanistan

The sign welcoming ferry passengers to Denman Island was altered for a short time last week to read: "Denmanistan". I can't think of a better place to form a self-reliant (sustainable) community (or country) than here. Denmanistan may not be such a bad idea.

Last weekend we went to the Denman Vegan Potluck, which featured two films... "winged Migration" and a student made film by a son of a Denman resident, about dumpster diving. It's always an entertaining evening at the potluck, talking to island residents about their lives and how they came to be here.

As the second half of our "home and home" series, we bolted over the to right coast for the "Barnacle Bash" on Thursday. It hammered rain all the way there, the whole time we were there, and all the way back on Friday. The Barnacle Bash is one event of many, celebrating the Whale Festival in Ucluelet and Tofino. Valdy was the headliner (as he was last year) and performed to a sell out crowd. Valdy is an excellent entertainer; singing, telling stories, and effortlessly playing guitar. It must be the red canvas running shoes that keep him young. Yup, I bought the 2003 double CD which Valdy signed for me. It was an evening of unlimited music, appies and wine. Not too tough to take! I'll have to look into the possibility of Valdy performing on Denman... It would be a perfect fit.

I was surprised to see this picture in the local paper... I think I look about 15 lbs lighter. Judging by the age of my son next to me, this would have been taken about 15 years ago.

Cheap Dave's Wine Corner
The average tax on a U.S. imported wine in BC is 117%!! This makes a $10 bottle of US wine hit the shelves at $26 here. This is pretty much a cash grab. Wines produced in this province are $2-4 cheaper per bottle in Alberta, we are being fleeced even when supporting the local wine industry. Yes, a whining wine guy... hence the violin player.

McLarens on The Lake 2002 (Australia) $12.99 Lots of red berry fruit from this Auzzie. Medium long finish and some tannins for cellaring. If I'm ever in Australia, this looks like a really nice place to visit.